Articles tagged with Drug Abuse
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
A study published in the Journal of Pediatrics highlights the under-recognized problem of pharmaceutical abuse in children, with nearly 14% resulting in moderate to major consequences. The malicious use of sedatives and other medications has been linked to death and serious outcomes.
A review of evidence shows widespread abuse of human rights among people who use drugs, increasing risk of HIV infection. Rights-based responses have had good results in implementing harm reduction services and involving people in policy development.
A UBC-BC CfE study found that increased HAART coverage significantly prevents HIV transmission and reduces new diagnoses in British Columbia. The expansion of HAART treatment plays a crucial role in maximizing public health resources.
A recent NIH-supported study found that increasing HAART coverage in British Columbia reduced viral load and new HIV diagnoses among individuals with a history of injection drug use. The study's findings support the importance of maximizing HAART coverage within current medical guidelines to curb the spread of HIV.
Researchers discovered a specific microRNA sequence, microRNA-212, that protects rats from cocaine addiction by regulating CREB signaling. This finding suggests microRNAs may play a crucial role in vulnerability to addiction, offering new promise for anti-addiction medications.
Recent figures show a decrease in homicides and suicides among mentally ill individuals in England and Wales. The study attributes the decline to reduced drug misuse, particularly among young people with mental illness. Suicide rates have also fallen overall, with notable decreases in younger age groups.
A personalized approach to smoking cessation is developing, combining genetic information and smoking habits to predict effective nicotine replacement therapy. This method could increase cessation success rates by up to 25%.
Researchers will investigate how methamphetamine use affects dental disease and develop targeted interventions for dentists to detect drug abuse in patients. The study aims to improve early detection and treatment of 'meth mouth', a uniquely accelerated form of extensive dental disease.
A Spanish study reviews methods for detecting substances in breast milk and their adverse effects on newborns. The general recommendation is to avoid drug abuse during breastfeeding due to the risk of transmission through breast milk, as well as exposure during pregnancy and environment.
The US plan prioritizes prevention, treatment, and law enforcement, focusing on reducing youth drug use and prescription abuse. In contrast, the UK is facing criticism for its drug policy, which has been influenced by media pressure and ideological opinions, leading to a lack of evidence-based decision-making.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet developed a new method for collecting narcotic substances from exhaled breath, which was successful in detecting amphetamine and metamphetamine in all cases of emergency care patients.
Researchers found that the deltaFosB gene regulator protects against depression by boosting neurons' activity when glutamate binds to AMPA receptors. Boosting deltaFosB calms neurons, enabling individuals to pursue goal-directed behavior despite stress.
A study by Boston University School of Medicine identified factors associated with prescription drug use disorder (PDUD) in primary care patients with chronic pain. Key findings include a history of jail time, disabling pain, cigarette smoking, and family history of substance abuse as predictors of PDUD.
Ameya Deshmukh's project wins first place with computer modeling to identify new medications for nicotine addiction. Kevin Knight's study suggests that cognitive games could be useful as an adjunct to ADHD medication.
A study from the University of Cambridge found that problem gamblers' brains react more intensely to near misses than casual gamblers. This reaction is linked to increased activity in brain regions associated with reward and learning, and may contribute to addictive behavior.
A study found that alcohol abuse elevated specific genes in the nucleus accumbens, while nicotine blunted this effect. The research also identified a set of genes crucial for cell structure regulation, which were altered by both alcohol and nicotine abuse.
Nearly 85% of teens in a study would have overdosed on acetaminophen if given the option, despite 60% having never heard of it. Limited health literacy increases this risk even further.
A team of researchers will study the neurobiological mechanisms behind regular aerobic exercise and its potential to prevent drug abuse relapse. Exercise has been shown to exert anti-stress effects, reducing cravings associated with stress by increasing galanin levels in the brain.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) has unveiled a new treatment program for young adults struggling with opioid addiction. The Buprenorphine Treatment for Young Adults product shows that longer-term buprenorphine treatment reduces drug use and improves treatment adherence in this age group.
The UK's ACMD faced criticism for banning mephedrone without sufficient evidence, prioritizing politics over science. The council's other report on hazardous drug use was ignored, highlighting a flawed approach to tackling substance abuse.
Hospitalizations for prescription opioid, sedative, and tranquilizer poisoning increased by 65% from 1999-2006. Unintentional poisonings by these drugs increased by 37%, while intentional overdoses rose by 130%.
The new center will provide timely data on prescriptions to doctors, pharmacies, and regulatory agencies, helping identify best practices in prescription monitoring. The initiative aims to reduce the serious epidemic of drug abuse, taking thousands of lives.
A randomized trial found that combining cognitive behavioral therapy addressing weight concerns with the medication bupropion was more effective than counseling alone in helping women quit smoking. The study showed improved abstinence rates and reduced relapse among women receiving the specialized counseling plus bupropion therapy.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center found that blocking new growth of specific brain nerve cells increases vulnerability for cocaine addiction and relapse. Increasing adult neurogenesis may prevent addiction before it starts, potentially improving the length and quality of life for millions of drug abusers.
A study by Massachusetts General Hospital researchers found that using words like 'abuser' to describe substance-use patients can lead to punitive attitudes and decreased likelihood of treatment. Changing the terminology may help reduce shame and guilt, making it easier for individuals to seek help.
A key epigenetic process in the brain's pleasure circuits is altered by chronic cocaine exposure, contributing to an acquired preference for cocaine. By reversing this epigenetic change, researchers were able to block gene expression changes and inhibit cocaine preference.
Health consumers must become informed advocates for comprehensive pain treatment as physicians struggle with inadequate training and fear of prescription drug abuse. Long-term solutions require education, responsibility, and collaboration among all parties involved.
A study by Natividad et al. found that adolescent rats exhibit fewer physical and neurochemical withdrawal signs than adult rats after nicotine withdrawal, suggesting age alters neurological systems relevant to nicotine use. This increased sensitivity makes adolescents more prone to drug abuse.
Case Western Reserve researchers identified two new metabolic pathways involving 4-hydroxyacids, a breakthrough that sheds light on the mechanisms of action for lipid peroxidation and drug abuse products. The study, published as 'Paper of the Week' in the Journal of Biological Chemistry, has significant implications for understanding o...
Researchers have discovered that fruit flies can be used as a simpler and more convenient animal model for studying the effects of cocaine and other drugs on the brain. The study, published in ACS Chemical Neuroscience, found that fruit flies can accurately replicate the physiological effects of these substances.
A brain scan study found that active cocaine abusers can suppress activity in brain regions linked to drug craving when asked to inhibit their response. This suggests that clinical interventions designed to strengthen inhibitory responses could help prevent relapse and improve treatment outcomes.
A survey of UK drug users found that they rate legal substances like alcohol and tobacco as more harmful than Class A substances, suggesting a flaw in the current classification system. The study also found high correlations between user ratings and expert ratings, indicating users are well informed about drug harms.
Scientists identified two new pathways for the breakdown of 4-Hydroxybutyrate (4-HB), a brain chemical used as a date-rape drug. This discovery could lead to the development of new treatments for victims of sexual assault and those with a rare genetic disorder that causes 4-HB accumulation.
Researchers detected SARMs, such as Andarine, on the black market, raising concerns about their potential misuse in sports. The study highlights the need for early implementation of screening for emerging therapeutic compounds in sports drug testing.
A new study reveals that a high score on the 'scale of craving' and an antisocial personality type are major contributors to relapse in cocaine users. The researchers analyzed 38 patients seeking treatment for cocaine abuse, finding impulsiveness and desire for new sensations also linked to substance use.
An interdisciplinary team is developing a novel drug detection technology that uses software to analyze biomolecules and determine an individual's history of drug abuse. The system, which can characterize millions of biomolecules, has potential applications in treating addictive behavior and identifying effective new treatments.
Adult male monkeys exposed to cocaine in-utero show poor impulse control and may be more vulnerable to drug abuse than female monkeys. The study suggests that males may be more susceptible to the long-lasting behavioral and neurobiological consequences of cocaine exposure during gestation.
Two University of Washington studies show that drinking alcohol doubles the risk of non-adherence to HIV medication. A third study found that peer support, electronic pagers, or both had no lasting impact on adherence rates. The challenges of adhering to life-long HIV treatment highlight the need for individualized comprehensive programs.
Researchers at the University of Illinois found that rats exposed to high doses of amphetamines during adolescence displayed significant memory deficits as adults. The declines in short-term memory were most pronounced when exposure occurred during adolescence rather than adulthood.
Experts outline steps for federal, state, and local governments to reduce the $2 billion healthcare burden from alcohol, drugs, and tobacco use and abuse. Research roadmap covers treatment of drug and alcohol use disorders, preventing drug abuse, and policies to achieve a smoke-free society.
Historian Sherry Smith finds examples of government restitution in US history, including posthumous pardons for WWI prisoners, reparations to Japanese Americans, and return of native lands. The global movement towards reparations is gaining steam, with the US Senate recently apologizing for slavery.
A Georgia State University study found that adolescent rats are less vulnerable to drug withdrawal and relapse than adult rats, suggesting a possible protective effect of youth on substance abuse. Researchers hope to apply this knowledge to develop better treatments for human addiction.
A brain-imaging study found that ADHD patients have lower-than-normal dopamine markers, which may underlie symptoms of inattention and reduced motivation. This deficit could lead to complications like drug abuse and obesity.
Researchers have identified new targets for treating breast cancer metastasis by inhibiting Brk protein expression. Additionally, a study on Wnk1 revealed its critical role in angiogenesis and heart development. Furthermore, drug abuse has been found to worsen HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders through dopamine signaling.
A systematic review of 20 studies found that individuals with schizophrenia are at increased risk of violence, but this risk is greatly outweighed by the effect of substance abuse. Substance abuse significantly increases the risk of violence for those with a psychotic illness, similar to those without a psychotic illness.
Researchers have mapped illicit drug use patterns in Oregon using municipal wastewater samples, providing a one-day snapshot of drug excretion. The study found higher levels of cocaine metabolites in urban areas and lower levels in rural areas, with methamphetamine present in all municipalities.
The review examines the prevalence of prescription opioid addiction among patients and healthcare providers, citing risks and consequences. New approaches to minimize abuse and promote recovery are discussed, emphasizing the importance of awareness and treatment.
A pilot prevention program targeting fifth graders and their younger siblings will receive funding from the National Institute on Drug Abuse. The program combines family intervention with a non-stigmatizing focus on sibling relationships to decrease risky behavior and use of drugs among youth.
Researchers at UC Davis found that brain functions critical to recovery improve after a year of methamphetamine abstinence. Cognitive processes such as impulse control and attentional focus show significant improvement with extended periods of abstinence.
A Brown University professor has won a federal research grant to investigate the effectiveness of topiramate in reducing marijuana addiction among high-school students. The two-year study aims to enroll 60 adolescent males and females and assess the drug's tolerability and efficacy.
Shire plc will present key scientific data on its Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) treatments lisdexamfetamine dimesylate and investigational non-scheduled guanfacine extended release. The presentations include studies on the pharmacokinetics, duration of effects, patient experience, and response to treatment.
A family-based prevention program was found to be especially effective in reducing substance use and risk behaviors among young teens with a genetic risk factor. The study showed that the program helped adolescents with the short allele of 5-HTTLPR overcome their predisposition to engage in risky behaviors.
A study by University of Georgia researchers found a rise in homicidal poisonings, with infants being the most common victims. The majority of these cases are likely negligent homicides committed by parents or caretakers, rather than premeditated crimes.
A University of Rochester Medical Center survey found teens lack knowledge about over-the-counter pain medications, with only 35% correctly identifying acetaminophen and Tylenol. Chronic misuse can lead to liver damage and accidental overdose
A new RAND Corporation study found that school-based drug education programs can have a long-term positive impact on sexual behavior in addition to curbing substance abuse. Young adults who received the training were less likely to engage in risky sexual behavior five to seven years later.
A study by University of Illinois psychologists found that having a conscientious partner can be good for one's health, particularly among women. The 'compensatory conscientiousness effect' suggests that this boost in health may occur even when the individual is highly conscientious themselves.
A new study suggests that teenagers with a strong parent-child relationship may start drinking at a later age and be less likely to develop alcohol problems. The study found that high-quality relationships can 'trigger a spiral of healthy development' during adolescence, leading to lower risk of substance abuse.
Scientists discovered brain proteins bind to and activate THC receptors, similar to marijuana, sparking hope for new treatments for pain, appetite stimulation, and reduced marijuana abuse. The study may lead to effective drugs with fewer side effects.
A new study examines the impact of social isolation on rats' response to cocaine, revealing that isolated male rats are more susceptible to the drug's effects. The research suggests that early isolation can alter brain sensitivity to cocaine, leading to increased sensitivity in adolescence.
Researchers have identified a novel syndrome associated with chronic cannabis abuse, characterized by severe vomiting sickness. The syndrome was first recognized in Australia and is believed to be caused by years of marijuana use, leading to increased cases worldwide.