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Researchers adapt health system COVID-19 collaboration to track near-real-time trends in visits for substance use

Researchers adapted a COVID-19 collaboration to monitor near-real-time trends in substance use-related hospital and emergency department visits. Detailed data shows large increases in methamphetamine- and opioid-involved hospital and ED visits among Native American, Black, and multiple-race populations.

SourceHennepin Healthcare Research Institute·JournalHealth Affairs·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 10, 2023
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

How mice choose to eat or to drink

A Stanford University study found that mice resolve conflicts between hunger and thirst through indirect modulation of behavior. The researchers used advanced recording technology to monitor individual neurons in the mouse brain, predicting the animal's choice before it was presented with options.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature·DateNov 8, 2023

Rise in overdose deaths increasingly affects those with lower educational attainment, RAND study finds

A new RAND Corporation study reveals that drug overdose deaths have surged among Americans without a college education, nearly doubling over a three-year period. The findings highlight the potential association between the rise in overdose deaths and barriers to education access, a social determinant of health.

SourceRAND Corporation·JournalJAMA Health Forum·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 6, 2023

Common brain network detected among people with substance use disorder

Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital have identified a common brain network associated with substance use disorder, regardless of the substance used. The finding could lead to targeted neurostimulation therapies for addiction, such as transcranial magnetic stimulation.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalNature Mental Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 25, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Looking out for kids: a case for better pediatric trauma interventions

Researchers found a significant increase in pediatric trauma admissions during the COVID-19 pandemic, with younger patients and falls from moderate heights being more common. Blood alcohol levels were also higher in patients aged 14-18 years old, suggesting targeted interventions to curb alcohol use may be needed

SourceCactus Communications·JournalPediatric Investigation·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 23, 2023

Police involvement may hamstring overdose outreach efforts

A new study found that law enforcement's role in post-overdose outreach programs may undermine their effectiveness. The research highlights the importance of law enforcement data and contact information to reach overdose survivors, but also notes challenges posed by police involvement due to lack of training and negative past experiences.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalInternational Journal of Drug Policy·TypeSurvey·DateAug 22, 2023

Swap-to-stop’ but let us shop - say vapers

A new study from the University of East Anglia found that most vapers believe a 'Swap-to-Stop' scheme providing free e-cigarettes would have helped them quit smoking. However, some respondents prefer to purchase e-cigarettes commercially due to personal preference for specific products.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalPerspectives in Public Health·TypeSurvey·DateAug 8, 2023

In states that legalized cannabis, frequent cannabis use became more common in young adults who are not in college, OSU study finds

An Oregon State University study found that young adults not in college became more frequent users of cannabis and met criteria for cannabis use disorder after state legalization. The prevalence of frequent cannabis use increased by 5 percentage points among non-college young adults, while college students saw a smaller increase.

SourceOregon State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 2, 2023
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Psychedelic-assisted therapies for patients with PTSD

Researchers are exploring psychedelic-based treatments as a potential game-changer for patients with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance use disorders. Studies have shown improvements in symptoms of both conditions, offering new hope for those who have struggled with treatment-resistant disorders.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalFrontiers in Psychiatry·TypeSurvey·DateJul 12, 2023

Substance use linked to long-lasting brain changes, cognitive decline

Researchers at Texas A&M University found that substance use impairs cognitive flexibility by inhibiting specific neurons. Chronic cocaine or alcohol use alters the local inhibitory brain circuit, leading to decreased cognitive flexibility and increased risk of academic deficits and lower quality of life.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 11, 2023

People with alcohol use disorder impaired after heavy drinking, despite claims of higher tolerance

Researchers found that individuals with AUD displayed less impairment on fine motor and cognitive tasks when consuming a standard dose of alcohol, but showed significant impairment at a higher dose. This suggests that the physical effects of alcohol accumulation contribute to impaired performance beyond mere tolerance.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalAlcoholism Clinical and Experimental Research·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 18, 2023
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Substantial racial inequalities despite frequent health care contact found in treatment for opioid use disorder

A new study by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found significant racial inequalities in treatment for opioid use disorder, with White patients receiving medication up to 80% more frequently than Black and Hispanic patients. Despite similar numbers of healthcare visits, disparities persist.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMay 10, 2023

Young men at highest risk of schizophrenia linked with cannabis use disorder

A recent NIH study reveals that young men with cannabis use disorder are at a higher risk of developing schizophrenia. The study analyzed health records data from over 6 million people in Denmark and found that as many as 30% of schizophrenia cases among young men aged 21-30 might have been prevented by averting cannabis use disorder.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse·JournalPsychological Medicine·DateMay 4, 2023

“Eat, Sleep, Console” reduces hospital stay and need for medication among opioid-exposed infants

Researchers found that the 'Eat, Sleep, Console' (ESC) care approach is more effective than Finnegan Neonatal Abstinence Scoring Tool (FNAST) in assessing and managing opioid-exposed newborns. Newborns cared for with ESC were medically ready for discharge approximately 6.7 days earlier and 63% less likely to receive medication.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 30, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Millions with opioid addiction don't receive residential treatment

A new Northwestern Medicine study found that only 7% of Medicaid enrollees with opioid use disorder (OUD) received residential treatment, highlighting a significant gap in care. Residential treatment centers provide structured support and are considered one of the best treatments for severe substance use.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Substance Use and Addiction Treatment·DateApr 12, 2023

Cocaine damage routinely misdiagnosed as nonthreatening nasal disease

Researchers find that patients with destructive nasal lesions may be suffering from cocaine-induced granulomatosis with polyangiitis, a condition often misdiagnosed. Cocaine use can trigger production of antibodies leading to symptoms similar to idiopathic Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalRheumatology Advances in Practice·TypeObservational study·DateApr 4, 2023
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Fibromyalgia may worsen opioid addiction, study finds

A recent study has found a significant link between fibromyalgia and increased odds of exacerbation in pain-related opioid use disorder. Researchers surveyed 125 individuals living with both conditions, revealing that those with fibromyalgia were more likely to report worsening addiction symptoms due to chronic pain.

SourceOhio State University Wexner Medical Center·JournalPain·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 28, 2023

Smokeless tobacco and cigarettes confer similar adverse vascular health risks

A new study finds that smokeless tobacco products increase the risk of developing peripheral artery disease by two-fold compared to non-users. The study analyzed data from 14,344 participants and found a significant association between smokeless tobacco use and PAD, with a rate of 4.4 cases per 1,000 person years.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 22, 2023
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

New NIH study reveals shared genetic markers underlying substance use disorders

A new NIH study has identified common genetic markers underlying various substance use disorders, suggesting a link to dopamine signaling regulation. The findings may lead to more effective treatments and prevention strategies for multiple substance use disorders, including those with co-occurring mental health conditions.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse·JournalNature Mental Health·DateMar 22, 2023

Community strategy reduced opioid overdose deaths in Pennsylvania counties

A novel community-focused strategy implemented in Pennsylvania counties led to a 30% reduction in opioid overdose death rates. The approach, developed by University of Pittsburgh researchers, prevented 1,818 opioid-related deaths over two years.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalJournal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 6, 2023

Pharmacists can start patients on road to recovery from opioid use disorder, study shows

A study shows that pharmacies can offer a safe starting point for patients with opioid use disorder, leading to higher rates of retention in treatment. The pharmacy-based model increases access to buprenorphine, a lifesaving medication, for diverse patient populations and promotes racial and economic equity.

SourceBrown University·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 11, 2023
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Helping patients with addiction tackle their health needs

A 5-year follow-up study found patients who received a patient activation training had more primary care use and fewer substance-related emergency department visits. The intervention taught patients to connect with their primary care team, manage their health holistically, and overcome stigma associated with addiction treatment.

SourceKaiser Permanente·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateNov 10, 2022

Study identifies neural circuit that controls alcohol abuse in mice

Researchers at Queensland University of Technology have identified a precise neural circuit in the brain that controls long-term alcohol consumption in mice. Inhibiting the transmission of serotonin to a specific receptor has been shown to reduce alcohol consumption.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 9, 2022

New study identifies cortisol level as indicator of addiction recovery success

Researchers found that participants who remained in treatment programs less than 90 days had significantly higher initial cortisol levels, indicating a higher risk of early discontinuation. Lower cortisol levels were associated with longer treatment retention.

SourceMarshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine·JournalAlcoholism Clinical and Experimental Research·TypeObservational study·DateSep 23, 2022
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Targeting impulsivity early in adolescence could prevent later behavioral disorders

A new study suggests targeting early adolescent impulsivity could prevent later behavioral disorders. The research found that adolescents with high levels of impulsivity in early adolescence were at risk for developing antisocial personality disorder and alcohol use disorder.

SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·TypeObservational study·DateAug 9, 2022
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Opioid use disorder: Flexible treatment at home proves effective

A pan-Canadian study found that prescribing buprenorphine-naloxone at home is as effective as traditional methadone treatment in reducing opioid use. The flexible model of care offers improved access and autonomy for individuals with opioid use disorder. With over 270 participants, the OPTIMA study suggests a new approach to treating t...

SourceUniversity of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM)·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 15, 2022
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

A drug that cures alcoholism may be the next anti-anxiety medication

Researchers at Tokyo University of Science discovered that disulfiram inhibits FROUNT protein and chemokine signaling pathways, reducing anxiety levels in mice. The study suggests a potential breakthrough anti-anxiety medication with safe and effective treatment for elderly patients suffering from anxiety and insomnia.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalFrontiers in Pharmacology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 14, 2022
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy shows promise for opioid addiction treatment

A pair of studies published by Washington State University scientists found that hyperbaric oxygen therapy can help individuals with opioid addiction reduce their methadone dose and better manage pain and withdrawal symptoms. The treatment involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized environment, resulting in significant dose reduct...

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Addictions Nursing·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 11, 2022

The hidden cost of firearm injuries

A new study by Harvard Medical School researchers found that people who survive firearm injuries face greater risks of mental health disorders, substance use disorders, and pain in the year following injury. The analysis showed significant increases in healthcare spending, with gunshot survivors averaging $2,495 more per month compared...

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateApr 4, 2022

Pusan National University scientists discover why women are more resistant to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease than men

Researchers found that female mice produce more of the FPR2 protein, which helps prevent NAFLD, and that estrogen mediates its production. This discovery highlights the need for sex-balanced animal experiments and could lead to novel treatments and gender-based therapies for NASH

SourcePusan National University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 17, 2022

Combination treatment is effective for treating smokers who drink heavily

A new study published in JAMA Network Open finds that a combination treatment of nicotine replacement therapy and varenicline is more effective for smoking cessation in heavy drinkers, resulting in 44.3% abstinence rate. Participants also showed significant reductions in drinking rates, with 25% decrease in weekly drinking days.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 4, 2022
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Tufts University researchers investigate how opioid use affects offspring in rats

Research from Tufts University scientists finds that opioid exposure in mothers can lead to metabolic disorders and type 2 diabetes in their sons. The study, published in Scientific Reports, suggests that even short-term use of opioids before pregnancy can have long-lasting effects on the health of future generations.

SourceTufts University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2022