Search

Drug addiction is a chronic and potentially deadly disease that is considered a global health problem and describes the alteration of brain function by psychostimulant drugs through changes in the reward system. However, there is still no ideal strategy for the management of drug addiction. Previous studies have suggested that microglia are involved in events associated with neuroplasticity and memory, which are also related to drug addiction. Many studies have shown that psychoactive substances may act directly on immune cells, altering their function and inducing the production of various inflammatory mediators. In recent years, a ketogenic diet (KD) was shown to have therapeutic benefits as a dietary therapy for a variety of neurological disorders. With respect to drug addiction, studies have shown that a KD can alleviate glucose metabolism disorders caused by alcohol use disorders by increasing ketone metabolism, thereby reducing withdrawal symptoms. This finding indicates the potential of a KD as a treatment for drug addiction, since a KD may promote the transition of microglia to a predominantly anti-inflammatory state through several mechanisms. Here, we discuss recent research showing that a KD plays a variety of roles in controlling microglia-mediated inflammation, opening new treatment avenues to treat drug addiction. This succinct analysis offers evidence of the enormous potential of a KD to treat drug addiction through the inhibition of microglial activation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tools of modern genetics and neurobiology have propelled a renaissance of research that has advanced our understanding of the pathophysiology of drug addiction. We know that an individual's risk for addiction is determined by interactions between genetics and environment and that only a minute fraction of chemical agents share the ability to act on this vulnerability to induce a state of addiction. Repeated exposure to these drugs causes addiction through repeated activation of dopaminergic transmission (and many other actions) in the brain, inducing changes at the molecular, cellular, and synaptic levels that, over time, rewire the circuitry throughout the limbic system. In this Review, I discuss how we are gaining a clearer picture of this drug-induced plasticity—some of which is shared by all addictive drugs, whereas other aspects are specific to certain drug classes—and of the ways in which these adaptations mediate the range of behavioral abnormalities that define the addicted state. Despite the challenges, there is reason for optimism in translating this rich biological understanding of addiction into improved treatments for the many individuals burdened by this illness around the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Opioid addiction is a global problem, causing the greatest health burden among drug use disorders, with opioid overdose deaths topping the statistics of fatal overdoses. The multifunctional anterior insular cortex (AIC) is involved in inhibitory control, which is severely impaired in opioid addiction. GABAergic interneurons shape the output of the AIC, where abnormalities have been reported in individuals addicted to opioids. In these neurons, glutamate decarboxylase (GAD) with its isoforms GAD 65 and 67 is a key enzyme in the synthesis of GABA, and research data point to a dysregulation of GABAergic activity in the AIC in opioid addiction. Our study, which was performed on paraffin-embedded brains from the Magdeburg Brain Bank, aimed to investigate abnormalities in the GABAergic function of the AIC in opioid addiction by densitometric evaluation of GAD 65/67-immunostained neuropil. The study showed bilaterally increased neuropil density in layers III and V in 13 male heroin-addicted males compared to 12 healthy controls, with significant U-test P values for layer V bilaterally. Analysis of confounding variables showed that age, brain volume and duration of formalin fixation did not confound the results. Our findings suggest a dysregulation of GABAergic activity in the AIC in opioid addiction, which is consistent with experimental data from animal models and human neuroimaging studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Persistent and maladaptive drug-related memories represent a key component in drug addiction. Converging evidence from both preclinical and clinical studies has demonstrated the potential efficacy of the memory reconsolidation updating procedure (MRUP), a non-pharmacological strategy intertwining two distinct memory processes: reconsolidation and extinction—alternatively termed "the memory retrieval-extinction procedure". This procedure presents a promising approach to attenuate, if not erase, entrenched drug memories and prevent relapse. The present review delineates the applications, molecular underpinnings, and operational boundaries of MRUP in the context of various forms of substance dependence. Furthermore, we critically examine the methodological limitations of MRUP, postulating potential refinement to optimize its therapeutic efficacy. In addition, we also look at the potential integration of MRUP and neurostimulation treatments in the domain of substance addiction. Overall, existing studies underscore the significant potential of MRUP, suggesting that interventions predicated on it could herald a promising avenue to enhance clinical outcomes in substance addiction therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The present exploratory study uses a longitudinal design to assess the associations between electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use and cigarette smoking, motivation to quit and trait impulsivity among adult smokers. Methods: One hundred and sixteen cigarette smokers only and ninety-one dual users (smoke cigarettes and use e-cigarettes) were recruited (mean age [standard deviation] = 25.11[6.94], male = 48.3%). Participants were recruited online and 121 were followed-up at 3 months. Participants completed online questionnaires regarding socio-demographics, smoking/e-cigarette use characteristics and trait impulsivity at baseline, and they self-reported their smoking status at 3-month follow-up. Results: The use of e-cigarettes in cigarette smokers was associated with a higher rate of stopping cigarette smoking at follow-up, relative to smokers who did not use e-cigarettes (χ2[1] = 11.03, p < 0.01). Multivariate logistic regressions controlling for age and gender showed a significant association between motivation to quit and stopping cigarette smoking at follow-up (odds ratio = 2.11, 99% Confidence Interval = 1.12–3.97, p < 0.01). There was no link between trait impulsivity and stopping cigarette smoking. Conclusions: The data suggest that e-cigarettes may increase rates of quitting cigarette smoking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: West Virginia (WV) has been cited as the epicenter of the opioid epidemic. Misinformation has exacerbated stigmatizing behaviors among community members in WV. To evaluate the impact of an initiative addressing substance use disorder (SUD) stigma, a WV-based media campaign and associated study were conducted to analyze the use of media and marketing tools to improve public perception of SUD. Methods: This study incorporated a quasi-experimental pretest-posttest design. Baseline measures of stigma toward SUDs were assessed via a pretest survey in August 2019. A community-wide media and marketing campaign was released September 2019. Participants were reevaluated to assess attitude change after exposure to the campaign. Results: The e-mail marketing strategy was the most successful component of the campaign. The majority of survey participants found stigmatizing behavior to be a serious problem. Statistically significant results (p <.05) were noted among specific pre- and post-survey elements including hope for recovery, trust, openness toward drug therapies, and fixation on drug seeking behavior. Conclusions: A generalized approach to reduce stigmatizing attitudes toward individuals with SUD was not statistically significant; however, results from this research lay the groundwork for future studies to employ targeted approaches to reduce stigmatizing attitudes and bias toward individuals with SUD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Substance use disorder (SUD) stigma undermines the implementation of effective harm reduction and treatment strategies in the U.S. and can impede individuals from seeking treatment. One research question guided this study: How do personal beliefs regarding SUD, familiarity with SUDs, and culture (religion, political ideology, and urbanicity), shape perceived societal SUD stigma? Methods: An online survey was sent to affiliates of a Michigan-based organization, Families Against Narcotics and administrators of Michigan Prepaid Inpatient Health Plan regional entities (N = 1,559). Results: On average respondents viewed society as moderately stigmatizing. The beliefs that drug users can stop whenever they want and that drug users have weak character were significantly associated with greater perceived levels of societal SUD stigma. The effects of religion on perceived stigma may be affected by beliefs of the immorality of drug use, while the effects of political ideology on perceived stigma may differ based on beliefs of the controllability of drug use. The effect of urbanicity may rely on perceived accessibility of treatment. Conclusion: Our findings reflect the intersection of personal beliefs and cultural contexts as they shape perceived societal SUD stigmatization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite growing concern regarding over-prescription of narcotic pain medication following ambulatory surgery, little is known about the analgesic prescribing practices following endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) in obese patients in comparison to non-obese patients. Objective: To compare the rates of opioid versus non-opioid prescriptions, the need for steroids, and post-operative adverse events between obese and non-obese adult patients undergoing ESS. Methods: Using TriNetX Live database, we identified all patients aged ≥18 years who underwent ESS (n = 1303) between 2014 and 2022 across several healthcare institutions across the state of Tennessee. We 1:1 propensity score-matched obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2) and non-obese (18.5 kg/m2 ≤ BMI < 30 kg/m2) cohorts for age, gender, race, and comorbidities including asthma, nicotine dependence, and sleep apnea. Rates of prescriptions and post-operative adverse events between cohorts were analyzed using risk ratios (RR) and confidence intervals (CI). Results: A toal of 532 obese patients were compared to 532 propensity score-matched non-obese patients in the first 14 post-operative days following ESS. The obese cohort was significantly more likely to be prescribed analgesics generally (RR = 1.72; 95% CI = 1.20-2.47), non-opioid analgesics (RR = 1.73; 95% CI = 1.19-2.50), and opioid analgesics (RR = 1.64; 95% CI = 1.14-2.36) than non-obese patients. There was no difference in rates of antibiotic or antiemetic prescription, prednisone/methylprednisolone, dexamethasone, ED visits, critical care service, epistaxis, transfusion, anemia, revision sinus surgery, mechanical ventilation, CPAP, or inhalation airway treatments. Conclusion: Obese patients undergoing ESS were significantly more likely to be prescribed non-opioid and opioid analgesia in the first 14 days post-operatively compared to non-obese patients. There were no differences in post-operative adverse events or other prescriptions. Otolaryngologists should be aware that obese patients are at increased risk of opioid induced airway obstruction and steroid induced hyperglycemia, especially in patients with comorbid sleep apnea or diabetes. Emphasis on non-opioid analgesics and multimodal pain management should be advocated for this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research has highlighted the role that childbearing and parenting can have in reducing involvement in antisocial behavior among adults. While some studies have similarly examined the short-term implications of parenthood for teen parents, very little research has considered the role that parenthood might have as they enter emerging adulthood. Accordingly, using data from the Pathways to Desistance study, the current study examines whether, among justice system involved young people, adolescent parenthood is associated with offending, incarceration, and drug dependency during emerging adulthood. Results indicate that adolescent parents, particularly teen fathers, are more likely to have continued justice system involvement during emerging adulthood. The opposite is true, however, for teen parents who live with their children (residential parents). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Self- medication leading to wastage of limited resources in developing countries, prolonged suffering, increase resistance to drugs and may result in significant medical complications such as adverse drug responses and dependence. Self-medication is extensively used by health professionals. Undergraduate medical students as being the future physicians representing a main pillar in health care system thus have special significance. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of self-medication and identify its pattern among medical students in Tanta university, Egypt. Methods: A four-month cross-sectional study was carried out among Egyptian undergraduate medical students at Tanta University, from first to final year. (November 2023 – February 2024). The students were chosen using a two-stage cluster sampling method, and data on sociodemographic and self-medication patterns were collected using a predesigned semi-structured self-administered questionnaire. Results: The prevalence of self-medication was 71%. The key determinants of self-medication was students' medical knowledge from self- experience and studies (55.9%). Headache was a common complaint for self-medication (80.4%). Majority of them (88.3%) use pharmaceutical products where analgesics lies on top (92.4%). The degree of popularity of the medicine was the primary reason for drug selection (52.5%) and recommendation of the pharmacist was the main determinate of selecting type of drug (43.6%). However, 30.2% experienced side effects, of which 50% went to private physician and 33.5% stopped taking their medications. Half of the students took antibiotics for self-medication. Conclusions: Self-medication is a common practice among medical students. where headache was the common symptom and the most commonly utilized medications for self-medication were analgesics. There is a need to augment the value of diagnosis, awareness and seriousness of this practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Tobacco use and exposure to tobacco products remain a major public health challenge, even among athletes. This study aimed to evaluate tobacco use and second-hand smoke exposure in athletes through urinary cotinine levels and exhaled air carbon monoxide (CO) measurements. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study included licensed athletes who visited the sports medicine outpatient clinic of a tertiary hospital. Participants completed an electronic questionnaire on smoking habits and second-hand smoke exposure. Urine samples were analysed for cotinine levels, while CO levels were measured in exhaled breath. Results: A total of 421 athletes participated (57.8% male, median age: 18 years). Tobacco use was reported by 29.9% (n = 126) of participants. Median urinary cotinine levels were 22.9 ng/mL among daily tobacco users and 17.4 ng/mL among athletes exposed daily to second-hand smoke, with a statistically significant difference between exposure levels (p < 0.05). The optimal cut-off value for detecting second-hand smoke exposure was identified as 12.5 ng/mL. Median exhaled air CO levels were 5 ppm in daily tobacco users. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that tobacco use prevalence among athletes mirrors Türkiye's national rates. Despite legal measures to curb tobacco use, direct use and second-hand smoke exposure remain pressing issues among athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When direct survey are about sensitive characteristics such as addiction to drugs, alcoholism, proneness to tax invasion and sexual violence, nonresponse bias and response bias become serious problems because people oftentimes do not wish to give true information. In this study, when the population is composed of strata such as gender, region, age group, we consider the simple model and crossed model by applying stratified random sampling which can estimate not only the domain population proportion but also the whole population proportion for two sensitive attributes such as drug use and sexual violence in the same time. In addition, when the size of each population stratum is unknown in stratified random sampling, we propose the simple model and crossed model by using stratified double sampling method. In each proposed survey design, the sample allocation of each stratum is dealt with in consideration of proportional allocation and optimal one. We compare the efficiency between the simple model and the crossed model according to the proposed stratified random sampling design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) and its precursors gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) and 1,4-butanediol (BD) have become a significant concern due to the increase in their recreational use and the high risks associated with it (e.g., overdose, addiction, life-threatening withdrawal syndromes). However, targeted prevention and treatment strategies are lacking, and little is known about the specific needs of users regarding supportive approaches. Methods: To address this gap, a mixed-methods longitudinal study was conducted with two waves of online data collection (11/2022–01/2023; 11/2023–01/2024) in Germany. The adult convenience sample (N = 2,196, with n = 240 participating in the follow-up) was mostly connected to Berlin's nightlife scene and included GHB/GBL/BD users and their (non-user) social environment. Perceptions and needs regarding prevention and harm-reduction, reasons and measures of decreasing use, and the impact of GHB/GBL/BD use were analyzed both quantitatively and qualitatively. Results: Education, harm reduction strategies, and specialized support options were welcomed by users and non-users, while restrictive approaches were viewed negatively, particularly by heavy users. Many participants expressed a desire to reduce GHB/GBL/BD use, driven primarily by health concerns, immediate use risks, and addiction, but only few participants had previously accessed preventive/therapeutic services. The follow-up showed little change in perceptions and experiences over time. Conclusions: The findings underscore the need for comprehensive and integrative prevention and treatment strategies for GHB/GBL/BD use, with harm reduction approaches prioritized over restrictions. They provide a crucial foundation for future research and interventions and emphasize the necessity of adequately addressing the growing issues related to GHB/GBL/BD use. Trial registration: The study protocol was pre-registered with the German registry for clinical studies (Deutsches Register Klinischer Studien; drks.de/search/de/trial/DRKS00030608) on October 28, 2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study combines Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) with the three sovereignties of literature framework to analyze the song "Alapaap" by Eraserheads. The study aims to uncover the layers of meaning within the song's lyrics and explore its broader cultural context. The CDA framework allows for a critical examination of the song's language and its reflection of social power dynamics and ideologies. The three sovereignties of literature framework, which includes the author-oriented, text-oriented, and reader-oriented approaches, is used to interpret the song's themes of personal choice, societal inequalities, and addiction to drugs. The study suggests that the song promotes a mindset of openness and embracing freedom, while also acknowledging the temporary pleasure that drugs may provide. However, further investigation is needed to fully understand the song's importance and influence, including conducting interviews with the songwriter and analyzing Filipino music and culture during the time the song was released. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ketamine has demonstrated both rapid and sustained efficacy in treating depression, especially in treatment-resistant cases. However, concerns regarding the addictive potential of ketamine during long-term depression treatment persist among clinicians. Aim: This review aimed to summarise the evidence on addiction phenomena associated with ketamine treatment of depression. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted in MEDLINE, Embase, PsycInfo and Global Health databases, with additional relevant studies identified through reference lists. Sixteen studies were included, comprising six randomised controlled trials, three single-arm open-label studies, one retrospective study, three case series and three case reports, for a total of 2174 patients. Results: The studies employed various routes of administration, including intravenous, intramuscular, intranasal, oral and sublingual. Ketamine was administered in the racemic form, except for the studies that utilised intranasal esketamine. Among the included population, four patients were reported to exhibit clear signs of tolerance to the antidepressant effect of ketamine or dependence on the drug, while the majority did not. Cases of addiction phenomena reported in studies that did not meet the inclusion criteria are also discussed. Conclusions: Despite the heterogeneity in study designs and outcome assessment methods, the review underscores the relative safety of ketamine treatment for adult patients with depression, emphasising the importance of medically supervised administration, vigilant monitoring and judicious dosing. Future long-term studies employing quantitative scales to assess dependence phenomena could contribute to strengthening the evidence for the safe and effective use of ketamine in the treatment of depression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Opioid misuse is a significant public health crisis. The aim sought to identify potential gaps in opioid care in primary care practices. Methods: American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) offered a monthly online educational series to seven U.S. practices. Practices were asked to complete up to 50 chart reviews for visits during two periods: February–April, 2019, and February–April, 2022. Each chart had to have an ICD-10 diagnosis of opioid misuse, opioid dependence, or opioid use. Chart reviews consisted of 14 questions derived from an American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry (AAAP) Performance in Practice activity, and then, scored based on practices' responses. Descriptive statistics and binary logistic and multinomial regressions were used. Results: Both periods had 173 chart reviews (total: 346) from the six practices. Most chart reviews were for patients with a diagnosis of opioid dependence (2019: 90.2%; 2022: 83.2%). Three questions for assessing OUD treatment behaviors had high levels of documentation across both time periods (>85%): other drug use, treatment readiness, and treatment discussion. Discussion: Results show a gap in the treatment of patients with OUD in primary care across several clinical practice recommendations. Conclusions: Expanding OUD treatment integration to primary care remains the most promising effort to combat the opioid crisis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Babylon Center for Humanities Studies is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of Babylon Center for Humanities Studies is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: This study evaluated the efficacy of rituximab (RTX) in primary membranous nephropathy (PMN) patients with incomplete remission and drug dependence after long-term use of calmodulin inhibitors (CNIs). It aims for complete clinical and immunological remission, and cessation of CNI dependence. Methods: Thirty-six patients were enrolled in the study with two groups: drug-dependent and partial remission or immune non-remission group. Both groups underwent RTX therapy with gradual CNI tapering to end CNI dependency and induce complete remission. The primary outcome was overcoming CNI dependency and achieving complete remission after 12 months of RTX therapy. Secondary outcomes included immunological remission and recurrence rates. Results: The drug-dependent group (20 patients) achieved significant proteinuria reduction compared to the partial remission or immune non-remission group (16 patients) (P =0.016). After 12 months of RTX treatment, all drug-dependent patients overcame CNI dependency (average withdrawal period: 5.3 ± 3.7 months), with complete remission rates increased from 10% to 70.0% and complete immunological remission rates rose from 35.0% to 90.0%. In the partial remission or immune non-remission group, 14 patients discontinued CNI (average period: 4.6 ± 4.5 months), with complete remission rates increasing from 5.0% to 68.8% and complete immunological remission rates from 6.3% to 68.8%. During follow-up, serum albumin increased, and anti-PLA2R antibodies, 24-hour proteinuria, and CD19+ cell numbers reduced, while creatinine remained stable. Three patients relapsed, four encountered adverse events, and no malignancies or other fatal adverse events were reported. Conclusions: RTX effectively achieves complete clinical and immunological remission in PMN patients dependent on or partially responsive to long-term CNI therapy, reducing recurrence and minimizing prolonged immunosuppressive therapy risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conducting qualitative research in the field of addiction is a demanding process that requires researchers to engage in emotional labor. In this article, we discuss this issue by presenting the findings of an exploratory qualitative study we carried out in Greece with addiction researchers. As revealed by the analysis of the data from focus groups we held with those who took part in our study, emotion management was identified at all stages of an investigative project: During the attempt to gain access to the field, the fieldwork, the data analysis and in the dissemination of the results. Emotional labor is required, in particular, to manage researcher-interviewee boundaries, the risk of retraumatizing the narrator through the recall of traumatic memories, and the disclosure of information that the investigator is not prepared to hear. The latter's fear of misinterpreting the interviewees' meaning during data analysis can also generate intense emotional charge. Participants in our study reported techniques that mitigated the abovementioned challenges. By highlighting these issues, we aim to promote emotional awareness as an integral component of wider researcher reflexivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Understanding drug addiction as a disorder of maladaptive learning, where drug-associated or environmental cues trigger drug cravings and seeking, is crucial for developing effective treatments. Actin polymerization, a biochemical process, plays a crucial role in drug-related memory formation, particularly evident in conditioned place preference paradigms involving drugs like morphine and methamphetamine. However, the role of actin polymerization in the reconsolidation of heroin-associated memories remains understudied. Methods This study employed a rodent model of self-administered heroin to investigate the involvement of actin polymerization in the reconsolidation of heroin-associated memories. Rats underwent ten days of intravenous heroin self-administration paired with conditioned cues. Subsequently, a 10-day extinction phase aimed to reduce heroin-seeking behaviors. Following this, rats participated in a 15-minute retrieval trial with or without cues. Immediately post-retrieval, rats received bilateral injections of the actin polymerization inhibitor Latrunculin A (Lat A) into the nucleus accumbens core (NACc), a critical brain region for memory reconsolidation. Results Immediate administration of Lat A into the NACc post-retrieval significantly reduced cue-induced and heroin-primed reinstatement of heroin-seeking behavior for at least 28 days. However, administering Lat A 6-hour post-retrieval or without a retrieval trial, as well as administering Jasplakionlide prior to memory reactivation did not affect heroin-seeking behaviors. Conclusions Inhibiting actin polymerization during the reconsolidation window disrupts heroin-associated memory reconsolidation, leading to decreased heroin-seeking behavior and prevention of relapse. These effects are contingent upon the presence of a retrieval trial and exhibit temporal specificity, shedding light on addiction mechanisms and potential therapeutic interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study seeks to understand, through their talk about crime, the meaning that young people in northern Mexico give to the presence of drug trafficking in their communities, its interrelation with other crimes, and the psychosocial impact on their daily lives. A total of 48 group interviews were carried out with young people in junior high, high school, and universities and analyzed for thematic content using MAXQDA 20 software. The main changes pointed out by the young people were the intensification of insecurity, the expansion of drug dealing in the community, mental health problems (especially addictions), the restriction of mobility on the streets, and changes in the relationship with security institutions. They also refer to changes such as the normalization of drug trafficking and the decline of the neighborhood's image. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims People often drink alcohol and use other substances concurrently, increasing the risk of adverse health outcomes. Our aims were to: (i) assess temporal trends in tobacco and/or cannabis use by varying alcohol consumption levels and (ii) identify associated factors of polysubstance use in high-risk alcohol users. Methods We conducted a repeated cross-sectional study combining 2010–19 U.S. National Survey of Drug Use and Health (NSDUH). Alcohol consumption was categorized as no use, low-risk use, and high-risk use. Outcomes include past-month tobacco and/or cannabis use, nicotine dependence, and/or frequent cannabis use. We employed linear time trends and multivariable logistic regressions. Results We included 395 256 participants aged ≥18 years. From 2010 to 2019, the prevalence of tobacco use and nicotine dependence decreased while that of any and frequent cannabis use increased (P  < .05). Tobacco use decreased faster in people with low−/high-risk alcohol use than no use (24% and 22% vs. 16%), whereas any cannabis use increased more rapidly in the no use group (155% vs. 77% in low- and 31% increase in high-risk groups). Among those with high-risk alcohol use, Hispanic individuals were less likely to use tobacco, cannabis, and both tobacco and cannabis, while non-Hispanic Black (NH Black) were more likely to use cannabis and both tobacco and cannabis than NH White counterparts (P <  .05). Conclusion Past-month tobacco use decreased, while cannabis use increased significantly across all alcohol consumption levels. Sociodemographic subgroups, such as NH Black individuals and those with psychiatric comorbidities, showed increased odds of polysubstance use, underscoring the need for targeted public health interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Flavorings are one of the major appealing factors of current tobacco products, especially for young adults. They constantly evolve, and new flavorings are introduced to the market every year, but little is known about user profiles of flavored tobacco products (FTPs). Methods: We analyzed young adult (ages 18–24) tobacco product users (N = 4,707) from Wave 5 of the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health Study. We applied bivariate analyses to compare individuals who use FTP and non-FTPs by different flavor types (i.e., menthol/mint, fruit, candy/sweets, and tobacco). Parameter estimates were weighted by applying the sample and replicate weights for the complex study design to produce population-representative estimates. Results: Sixty percent of the current combustible tobacco users and 90% of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) users were FTP users. FTP users were more likely to be multiple product users than non-FTP users. Being non-Hispanic White, drinking alcohol in the past year, experiencing internalizing problems in the past month, and having tobacco dependence were associated with FTP use. Flavored ENDS users had different sociodemographic characteristics by flavor types but did not differ significantly in vaping-related behaviors (e.g., frequency). Also, preferred flavors differed among tobacco user groups (i.e., ENDS, hookah, and cigars). Conclusions: FTPs appear to be gaining popularity among young adults and tend to show co-use with multiple tobacco products and other substances. Future studies are warranted to monitor the risk factors of young adult FTP use, especially in the context of flavor ban on ENDS products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Egyptian Journal of Neurology, Psychiatry & Neurosurgery is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic drug that is abused by teenagers and young adults, commonly for recreational purposes in dance clubs, to generate euphoria and dissociation, and sometimes employed as a date-rape drug. Herein, a highly sensitive, and environmentally friendly spectrofluorimetric method was developed for detection of ketamine in pharmaceutical and plasma samples. The technique is based on a nucleophilic substitution reaction occurring between ketamine and NBD-Cl (4-chloro-7-nitrobenzo-2-oxa-1,3-diazole), resulting in the formation of a fluorescent derivative that exhibits detectability at a remarkable level. The resultant derivative demonstrates its maximum emission intensity at 543 nm upon excitation at a wavelength of 481 nm. Upon optimizing the reaction parameters, a linear relationship was established between the fluorescence intensity of the formed derivative and the concentrations of ketamine within the specified range of 10 − 250 ng/mL. The method demonstrated exceptional sensitivity with detection and quantitation limits of 2.37 ng/mL and 7.18 ng/mL, respectively, allowing for the detection of ketamine in both pharmaceutical and plasma samples. The method was precise (%RSD < 1) accurate (%R = 99.74%) and robust (% R ± SD from 98.00 ± 1.11 to 99.97 ± 0.75). Furthermore, the developed method was compared to the reported method, with the results indicating that the suggested method is more sensitive and ecologically benign. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Iran, there is limited information regarding the species distribution and antifungal susceptibility profiles of yeast isolates from drug addicts suffering from oral candidiasis (OC). In this study, 104 yeast isolates, including 98 Candida species and 6 uncommon yeasts, were collected from 71 drug abusers with OC. The susceptibility profiles of Candida spp. and uncommon yeasts to amphotericin B (AMB), itraconazole (ITC), nystatin (NYC), fluconazole (FLC), and caspofungin (CAS) were evaluated using the CLSI broth microdilution method. The prevalence of OC in the sampled population was found to be 29%. The susceptibility profile of Candida spp. revealed remarkable sensitivity, with 100% and 99% of isolates susceptible to NYC and AMB, respectively. However, concerning levels of resistance or non-wild-type minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) were observed, with 13.2% of Candida isolates showing resistance to FLC, 13.2% to ITC, and 16.3% to CAS. Notably, 35.2% of patients showed mixed yeast species, while 5.1% of Candida isolates exhibited multidrug resistance. The analysis of the uncommon yeast species showed that the overall frequencies of the highest MICs were observed for CAS. Furthermore, within the six non-Candida species identified, Hanseniaspora opuntiae and one isolate of Pichia kluyveri exhibited resistance to FLC and ITC, respectively, while all non-Candida species were susceptible to AMB and NYC. Additionally, one isolate of Pichia kluyveri exhibited simultaneously high MICs to two drugs ITC and CAS. Furthermore, the Hanseniaspora opuntiae isolate showed high MICs to CAS and FLC. The findings from the present study suggest that AMB and NYC can be suitable choices for empiric treatment of both common Candida species and uncommon yeast infections in substance abuse patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The disability weight (DW) reflects the severity of non-fatal outcomes and is an important parameter in calculating the burden of disease. However, the universality of the global, national, or subnational DWs remains controversial. This study aims to measure DWs specific to Hubei Province of China using non-parametric regression to anchor the DWs. Methods: Paired comparison (PC) data collected from a web-based survey in Hubei Province targeting the general population were used to estimate the DWs of 196 health states. Specifically, PC data from 33,925 respondents were analyzed by probit regression analysis, and the results were then anchored to 0–1 scale using non-parametric regression based on the DWs from Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2013. The absolute DW values and rankings were compared to those in the Chinese disability weight measurement study, GBD 2013, and Japan. Results: The DWs for 196 health states ranged from 0.003 for mild distance vision impairment to 0.663 for severe heroin and opioid dependence in Hubei Province, China. Quite a lot mental disorders, such as moderate/severe episode of major depressive disorder, were considered more severe than the terminal phase with/without medication among Hubei residents. DW rankings of the health states are relatively stable in Hubei Province irrespective of the anchoring method used. A very small proportion (4 of 196, 2%) of DW rankings changed by 10 or more positions in China when compared with our results, but approximately 61% in GBD 2013 and 59% in Japan. Among the top 25 health states in this study, 9 of 11 health states categorized as mental, behavioral, and substance use disorders resulted in a lower ranking in GBD 2013, and all 6 states in Japan also showed a lower ranking, whereas China shared a similar ranking. Conclusions: The burden of mental disorders among Hubei residents, especially moderate or severe major depressive disorder, deserves further attention. When using different anchoring methods, DW rankings were maintained relatively stable rather than the absolute values in Hubei. Substantial differences of DW rankings between our results and that in China, GBD 2013, and Japan draw attention to the need for deriving local disability for disease burden calculation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The present study aims to examine the consumption patterns of cultural and media goods (internet, television programs and satellite series, books, publications, music, modern social networks, movies and theater, computer games) and the tendency of youth towards drug use and addiction in Shiraz City. Methods and Materials: The survey method was utilized in this study. The required information was collected through a questionnaire. The statistical population of the study included young people aged 20 to 29 years residing in District 2 of Shiraz City in 2022, totaling 31,656 individuals. The sample size for this study was 384 individuals. Participants were selected using a random sampling method. The information collection method was both field-based and library-based. The data collection tool was a questionnaire. The collected information was analyzed using Smart PLS software. Findings: Based on the research results, the impact of eight variables: gender, different levels of parental education, type of internet consumption, type of television program and satellite series consumption, type of music consumption, type of smartphone use (modern social networks), type of computer game consumption, and tendency towards drug use was confirmed. Conclusion: Therefore, based on the research findings, we conclude that the consumption of cultural and media goods influences the tendency of youth towards drug use and addiction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sleep disorders can lead to various diseases, so good sleep plays an important role in maintaining the physiological and psychological health of all living organisms. Compared with traditional medicines, dietary intake has a higher safety factor in improving sleep and does not cause drug dependence in people. This article first summarizes the functional factors related to regulating sleep from three aspects: excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters, immune cytokines, and gut microbiota. Secondly, the mechanisms of action of different sleep regulating factors are reviewed. Finally, the dietary sources of different sleep regulating factors are summarized, in order to provide theoretical support for the industrialization and commercialization of functional foods for improving sleep in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drug addiction often correlates with criminal behavior. When investigating criminal behavior among individuals grappling with drug addiction, it becomes crucial to scrutinize the influence of dopamine. Substances such as heroin, morphine, methamphetamine and other drugs can cause abnormal dopamine secretion when people are addicted to them, which promotes changes in the brain's reward circuit and emotional balance, thereby increasing susceptibility to criminal behavior. The pivotal role of dopamine within the reward pathway and its regulatory function in emotional processes exert profound influence on behavior following drug simulation. These influences are primarily manifested by three distinct attributes: a singular criminal motive and objective, lack of moral sense, and impulsive decision-making processes. Drawing upon the distinctive dopaminergic dynamics inherent in individuals afflicted by drug addiction, this study advocates for targeted corrective interventions. The preventive paradigm encompasses the cultivation of supportive community environments, the establishment of comprehensive databases, and providing legal education and protection, among other initiatives. In terms of treatment, along with judicial sanctions and protections, exercise regimens and psychotherapeutic interventions are advocated. The corrective endeavor necessitates a synergistic integration of community-based and legalistic frameworks. The objective is to furnish guiding principles for tackling criminal behavior precipitated by aberrant dopamine secretion, underpinned by a scientifically informed approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessible Summary: What Is Known on the Subject: Smoking rates have decreased in the general population but remain high among people with severe mental illness (SMI). What the Paper Adds to Existing Knowledge: An individualized smoking cessation program was tested with 99 adults with SMI.The program showed it is possible to help people with SMI smoke fewer cigarettes and reduce nicotine addiction.Customized smoking cessation programs are essential for those with high nicotine dependence and mental health challenges. Implications for Practice: Mental health services should offer tailored tobacco cessation programs because these programs can improve the health of people with mental illness who smoke.It is important for mental health services to follow government guidelines and provide evidence‐based support. Introduction: Despite significant reductions in smoking rates in the general population over recent decades, smoking rates remain relatively unchanged among people with SMI. Aim: To evaluate the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of the Keep Quitting in Mind pilot program, an individualized smoking cessation program for people experiencing SMI. Methods: In total, 99 adult participants with SMI and engaged with a community mental health service, participated in the intervention. The intervention included motivational interviewing and goal setting, in addition to provision of pharmaceutical aids (including nicotine replacement therapy). Results: Analysis determined that the Keep Quitting in Mind pilot program was feasible in a public adult mental health service and participation in the program was associated with reductions in the number of cigarettes smoked daily and level of nicotine addiction. Discussion: This real‐world pilot program demonstrated feasibility and potential effectiveness in reducing smoking among adults with mental illness. Aligning with government guidelines, tailored smoking cessation programs are crucial due to high nicotine dependence and mental health complexities. Implications for Practice: Given the high rates of cigarette smoking by people with mental illness and the cardiometabolic health risks associated with this, mental health services should consider adding evidence‐based and bespoke tobacco cessation programs as part of core business. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evidence indicates that regular assessment of antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence is necessary to promote adherence and achieve viral suppression. Self-reported adherence using a visual analog scale (VAS) has been used extensively to measure ART adherence. However, less is known about the accuracy of the VAS for measuring ART adherence among opioid-dependent people living with HIV. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the accuracy of the VAS in measuring ART adherence in opioid-dependent people living with HIV who are enrolled in a methadone maintenance program (MMP). This study was conducted within a larger randomized controlled trial among opioid-dependent people living with HIV (N = 109) who were enrolled in an inner-city MMP. Self-reported VAS ART adherence data were compared to pharmacy refill data, which is a more objective measure. Self-reported VAS ratings and pharmacy refill behavior were significantly correlated at the 6-month post-intervention mark (r = 0.349, p = 0.006) but not at any other time point (i.e., pre-intervention, post-intervention, 3-months, and 9-months post-intervention). Based on the pharmacy refill data, participants did not consistently adhere to their ART medication but self-reported high adherence on the VAS. The self-report VAS may not be an accurate measure for assessing ART adherence among opioid-dependent persons living with HIV and enrolled in a MMP. Based on our findings, it may be more accurate to use pharmacy refill information or other objective measures to quantify ART adherence over extended periods for this patient population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Vietnam, the public sector has largely been responsible for delivering methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) services. However, with foreign aid anticipated to decline in the coming years, the involvement of the private sector in delivering MMT services is critical to ensure the continued sustainability of MMT programs across Vietnam. This study aims to evaluate patient satisfaction and identify correlated factors among Vietnamese drug users undergoing MMT in both public and private methadone clinics. A cross-sectional study was conducted in one private and two public methadone facilities in Nam Dinh, a province in the North of Vietnam. A convenience sampling technique was applied to recruit 395 participants. Data was collected through 20-minute face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire. Multivariate Tobit regression was utilized to measure associated factors with patient satisfaction. Results showed that patients were highly satisfied with MMT services in both public and private; however, they expected a higher degree of comprehensive care services. Compared with public facilities, the satisfaction level of patients in private facilities was significantly lower in the following aspects: health administration and professional capacity of health workers. However, there were insignificant differences in regard to infrastructure, equipment, and availability of medical services resources, supporting a promising role of the private sector in supporting the expansion of the MMT programs in Vietnam. Integrating MMT with other physical and mental healthcare services, along with strategies for improving administrative procedures and health workers' capacity in private clinics, are critical implications of this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: People with current or previous drug use (PCPDU) often lack long-term healthcare contacts in primary healthcare (PHC). While international research has shown negative attitudes toward PCPDU in healthcare, PHC professionals' attitudes toward PCPDU have not been assessed in Sweden. The aim of this study was to investigate PHC professionals' attitudes to PCPDU, and to compare attitudes toward people who actively use illicit drugs with those toward patients in opioid assisted treatment (OAT). Design: In this survey study, respondents were asked for background data, and their attitudes toward patients using illicit drugs, OAT patients and patients with depression were assessed by using an adapted version of the Medical Condition Regard Scale (MCRS). Setting and subjects: Nurses and physicians at primary healthcare centers (PHCCs) in Skåne, Sweden. Main outcome measures: Mean MCRS scores, dichotomized responses to MCRS items, and associations between MCRS score and background covariates (age, sex, profession and duration of professional experience). Results: Eighty-nine PHC professionals from 13 PHCCs responded (approximately 39% of relevant workforce). The median MCRS score was 44 for patients with illicit drug use and patients in OAT, and 51 for patients with depression. Drug use and OAT displayed similar minimum, maximum and interquartile range values as well, while scores regarding depression displayed a higher minimum value and smaller spread. No significant associations were found between background covariates and MCRS scores for either drug use or OAT. Conclusions: The results indicate widespread negative attitudes to PCPDU, with implications for health equity in the clinic. Further studies are needed to see if the results reflect attitudes in Swedish PHC in general. Key Points: People with current or previous drug use (PCPDU) often lack necessary primary healthcare (PHC) and are commonly subject to prejudice. Swedish PHC professionals held more negative attitudes toward PCPDU than toward patients with depression. Attitudes toward patients with active drug use and patients in opioid assisted treatment (OAT) were almost identical. Study findings have potential implications for the health of PCPDU as well as health equity in the clinic. Widespread negative attitudes to PCPDU in our sample indicate the need of larger-scale studies of attitudes toward PCPDU in Swedish PHC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tobacco use remains one of the most significant preventable public health problems globally and is increasingly concentrated among vulnerable groups, including those with trauma exposure or diagnosed with PTSD. The goal of this systematic review was to update and extend previous reviews. Of the 7224 publications that met the initial criteria, 267 were included in the review. Summary topic areas include conceptual frameworks for the relation between trauma or PTSD and tobacco use; associations between trauma exposure or PTSD and tobacco use; number and type of trauma exposures and tobacco use; PTSD symptoms and tobacco use; Treatment-related studies; and the examination of causal relations. Evidence continues to indicate that individuals exposed to trauma or diagnosed with PTSD are more likely to use tobacco products, more nicotine dependent and less likely to abstain from tobacco even when provided evidence-based treatments than individuals without trauma. The most commonly cited causal association proposed was use of tobacco for self-regulation of negative affect associated with trauma. A small proportion of the studies addressed causality and mechanisms of action. Future work should incorporate methodological approaches and measures from which we can draw causal conclusions and mechanisms to support the development of viable therapeutic targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

People who inject drugs (PWIDs) experience high rates of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, primarily due to needle sharing and limited healthcare access, resulting in a disproportionate disease burden within this population. This prospective study evaluated treatment outcomes in 432 adult patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) treated with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) at the University Clinical Center of Serbia. Patients were categorized into two groups based on a history of drug addiction: PWIDs (163, 37.7%) and non-PWIDs (269, 62.3%). The PWID group was further categorized into subpopulations of problematic PWIDs (39, 23.9%), ex-PWIDs (124, 76.1%), and PWIDs on OST (96, 58.9%). The PWID group demonstrated significantly lower treatment adherence, with an intention-to-treat (ITT) rate of 82.8%, compared to 96.3% in the control group (p < 0.001). In contrast, no significant differences were observed in per-protocol (PP) outcomes between the two groups. Additionally, PWIDs were significantly younger (p < 0.001) and had higher rates of psychiatric disorders (p < 0.001), alcohol abuse (p < 0.001), and HCV genotype 1a (p < 0.001). Advanced fibrosis was predictor of PP treatment failure among PWIDs, while mood disorders and alcohol use disorder were associated with interruptions before the scheduled completion time. For non-PWIDs, older age and advanced fibrosis emerged as key predictors of PP treatment failure. The loss to follow-up was most commonly observed in the problematic PWID subgroup (p = 0.001). These findings highlight the importance of addressing barriers in PWIDs through integrated care strategies that concurrently manage addiction and HCV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Chinese Mental Health Journal / Zhongguo Xinli Weisheng Zazhi is the property of Chinese Mental Health Journal and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Introduction: Pain and disability management are crucial for a speedy recovery. Combining analgesics with different mechanisms of action provides greater pain relief with lower doses, promoting efficient multimodal analgesia. This study evaluated the efficacy and safety between two fixed-dose combinations (FDC): etoricoxib/tramadol compared to paracetamol/tramadol for the management of acute low back pain (LBP) in a 7-day treatment. Methods: We conducted a phase IIIb, prospective, randomized, and multicenter study in patients with acute LBP treated with etoricoxib 90 mg/tramadol 50 mg (one packet of granules diluted in 100 ml of water, once a day [QD], for 7 days) or paracetamol 975 mg/tramadol 112.5 mg (one tablet of 325 mg/37.5 mg, three times a day [TID], for 7 days) to assess the efficacy (in terms of pain and disability improvement) and safety. Results: One hundred and twenty-four patients were randomized to receive either etoricoxib/tramadol QD (n = 61) or paracetamol/tramadol TID (n = 63). From the magnitude of change in pain evaluations, differences were observed between the treatment groups at 3 [p = 0.054, CI 95% − 0.648 (− 0.010 to 1.306)] and 5 days (p = 0.041). The proportion of patients with a 30% reduction in Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score was statistically significant when comparing the treatment groups on the third day of follow-up [p = 0.008, CI 95% 0.241 (0.061–0.421)]. An improvement in LBP's disability to perform activities of daily routine (Oswestry and Roland–Morris questionnaires) was observed in both treatment groups. A total of 79 adverse events (AEs) (38 [48.1%] with etoricoxib/tramadol and 41 [51.9%] with paracetamol/tramadol) were reported. The most frequent AEs were nausea (17.7%) and dizziness (16.4%). Conclusions: The results show the clinical benefits of etoricoxib/tramadol FDC, such as the sparing effect of tramadol dose per day, early therapeutic response rate compared with paracetamol/tramadol; which translates into faster pain relief, better adherence, less tramadol drug dependency, and a reduction of related AEs incidence. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier, NCT04968158. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has become conventional wisdom to say that rural America is (and rural Americans are) in "crisis," and this has generated a cottage industry of commentary from journalists, academics, politicians, policy makers, and others. Sometimes the story of crisis is economic: jobs harder and harder to find in the rural pockets of the nation. Sometimes it is social: rural isolation and desperation that lead to drug addiction and suicide. Whatever its cause, the result has been that rural America has been "left behind," to borrow from the title of sociologist Robert Wuthnow's recent book on the topic. And the sub-title of his book encapsulates the politics this crisis has generated: decline and rage. This article interrogates the narrative of crisis and decline by historicizing it more deeply, by examining how enduring rural mythologies continue to shape our discourse about rural places, and to argue that far from being "left behind" in the national parade, rural America has often been leading it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Annals of the Faculty of Arts is the property of Ain Shams University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study reviews the vital role that playgrounds and parks play in directing adolescents towards recreational sports practices as an effective means of reducing delinquency and drug addiction. Adolescence is considered one of the most critical stages of life, as individuals are most vulnerable to being affected by the environmental and social factors surrounding them. The study highlights the importance of providing safe and encouraging environments, such as barns and parks, that provide adolescents with the opportunity to participate in beneficial and fun sports activities. These environments contribute to directing their energies towards positive practices and keep them away from potential dangers such as deviance and addiction. We used the descriptive approach to study a population of adolescents on a sample of 40 young adolescents They were selected randomly from the visitors of the July 5 barn in Biskra, using a questionnaire tool to collect data. The results showed that recreational sports activities play an important role in improving the psychological and physical health of adolescents, enhance their sense of belonging to society, and help develop their social skills. These activities also contribute to building values of discipline and commitment, which reduces the possibility of them engaging in deviant or addictive behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Opioid dependence is a critical public health issue in Northeast India, with limited data available on the affected population. Aim: This study examines the sociodemographic and clinical profiles of opioid-dependent individuals in Assam. Methods: A retrospective review was conducted of 238 patients diagnosed with opioid dependence at a tertiary care addiction treatment center in Assam, covering records from January 2022 to January 2023. Results: The sample consisted mainly of young, married males (median age 25 years), with a median 24-month dependence duration. Heroin was the primary opioid, and 55.5% had a history of injecting drug use (IDU). Among injection drug users (IDUs), 83.3% were positive for HCV, 9.8% for HBV, and 28.0% for HIV. Early onset of heroin use and unmarried status were linked to higher HCV prevalence, while HIV prevalence showed no significant sociodemographic associations in IDUs. Conclusion: The high prevalence of IDU and associated infections underscores the need for targeted interventions and comprehensive treatment resources for opioid users in Assam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Faculty of Theology, Sakarya University / Sakarya Üniversitesi Ilahiyat Fakültesi Dergisi is the property of Sakarya University, Faculty of Theology and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: The factors associated with changes in alcohol use in medical students during the COVID-19 pandemic have been poorly examined. Methods: An online survey was conducted among the medical students of the Université Paris Cité (Paris, France) to identify the factors (sociodemographic, clinical, literacy in health) associated with changes in alcohol use. Two outcomes were considered: changes in the past 12 months and changes during lockdowns. Results: The risk level of alcohol dependency and cannabis use were positively associated with both an increase and a decrease in alcohol use, for both outcomes. The awareness of the Dry January® alcohol abstinence challenge was associated with a decrease in alcohol use, for both outcomes. Lifetime cocaine use and recent use of nitrous oxide or poppers were associated with an increase in alcohol use, for both outcomes. In addition, regarding only changes in alcohol use during the lockdowns, decreases were reported for lifetime cocaine use, recent use of nitrous oxide or poppers and desire of prevention campaigns by the University, whereas an increase was reported for students with depressive symptoms. Conclusion: Past substance use and low level of health literacy may be good indicators to identify students at increased risk of alcohol use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: This research examined the incarceration experiences of adult women with histories of drug addiction, aiming to fill knowledge gaps regarding how these women subjectively interpret their incarceration experiences. Methodology: In-depth interviews were conducted with 22 formerly incarcerated women from the Northeast and Midwest United States. A phenomenological approach was used to explore the meaning of incarceration for the participants, with the deprivation model of imprisonment guiding the analysis. Findings: Women with drug addiction reported being treated differently while incarcerated because of their addiction. They experienced a lack of physical and psychosocial security, limited autonomy in health-related decisions, and diminished freedom to act and express themselves, often as a result of their mental health and drug addiction issues. Additionally, they experienced a loss of identity, stigma, and internalized stigma due to the way they were treated in prison. Conclusions: Incarceration is a critical life event that deprives women of many basic human needs, shaping their health, self-perception, and understanding of the criminal justice system. Further research is necessary to explore how the experience of incarceration impacts women's mental health, drug addiction recovery, and overall well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

People with HIV smoke cigarettes at a high prevalence, and it is important to identify modifiable variables related to smoking in this population. Race/ethnicity-based discrimination is common among people with HIV from minoritized racial and ethnic groups and results in significant adverse effects. The goal of this study was to examine the relationship between race/ethnicity-based discrimination, depression, and smoking-related variables among people with HIV who smoke. This was a secondary analysis of data from a prospective, randomized controlled smoking cessation trial for people with HIV. Participants were recruited from three HIV clinical care sites and randomly assigned to an HIV-tailored group therapy intervention or a control condition. Participants completed measures of demographics, smoking-related variables, race/ethnicity-based discrimination, and depressive symptoms at baseline and were followed up 3- and 6-months after study completion. Depressive symptoms had an indirect effect on the relationship between race/ethnicity-based discrimination and self-efficacy to quit smoking at 3-month follow-up. Depressive symptoms mediated the relationship between race/ethnicity-based discrimination and both nicotine dependence and self-efficacy to quit smoking at 6-month follow-up. Findings highlight the importance of considering race/ethnicity-based discrimination and depressive symptoms in the development and implementation of smoking cessation treatment interventions for people with HIV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Long-acting injectable buprenorphine (LAIB) is a new treatment for opioid use disorder. Drawing upon new materialism and the concept of social capital, this article provides a focused analysis of how LAIB affects, and is affected by, patients' relationships with other people. Methods: Data derive from a longitudinal qualitative study. Twenty-six people (18 males; 8 females) initiating LAIB were recruited from England and Wales (2020/2021) and interviewed up to six times each over a year (125 interviews in total). Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and coded. Coded relationship data were summarized in Excel and analyzed via Iterative Categorization. Results: Core significant others who did not use substances offered participants important support with LAIB. Children and grandchildren provided motivation for LAIB, whilst other family relationships could be supportive and unsupportive. Participants wanted to avoid friends, peers and associates who might offer them substances, but valued sharing experiences with others in similar circumstances. Whilst some participants were unconcerned when treatment staff did not contact them, others were angry and upset. Those who did not continue LAIB or were lost from the study were more isolated at recruitment. Meanwhile, participants who remained on LAIB described increased sociability over time. Conclusions: Findings are consistent with ideas relating to new materialism (LAIB is part of an interacting network of material and non-material factors) and social capital (those with supportive relationships benefited more from LAIB). Interpersonal relationships need to be considered as part of routine care and should be reviewed with patients throughout the treatment journey. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patients continue to face challenges accessing medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) despite attempts to loosen prescribing restrictions and streamline service provision. Past research has mainly focused on potential barriers surrounding prescribing practices for buprenorphine, but has had limited investigation into the role of pharmacies. Objective: This study investigates the role of both pharmacists and pharmacies in creating or circumventing barriers to accessing buprenorphine for individuals in Georgia seeking medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD). Methods: Semi-structured interviews of pharmacists across 12 access and no access pharmacies were used to create a codebook of 179 discreet statements. The (N = 12) 20–35-minute phone interviews included questions addressing substance use, pharmacy practices, treatment, harm reduction, and psychoeducation. Results: Pharmacists widely agreed that opioid use has caused negative effects on community members (N = 11), that buprenorphine formulation stocking decisions are made based on patient needs (N = 11), and that buprenorphine is relatively easy to stock (N = 10). Additionally, respondents generally stated that buprenorphine is a helpful tool for treating opioid use disorder (OUD) (N = 12) but some reported positive experiences while others reported challenging or negative experiences with patients receiving buprenorphine (N = 7). Finally, few (N = 4) pharmacists agreed that they could benefit from extra training despite many asserting that training is important to inform their own practice (N = 8). Conclusion: Results from respondents generally show that training may be beneficial for pharmacists to develop an enhanced understanding of addiction and treatment. Enhanced effort to stock different formulations or dosages of buprenorphine and develop relationships with prescribers may increase community access. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: College students who identify as a sexual minority (i.e., lesbian, gay, bisexual, or other sexual orientation) are at higher risk for e-cigarette use than their heterosexual or "straight" peers. However, little is known about factors, such as e-cigarette outcome expectancies, that might influence these differences in prevalence rates. Therefore, the current study examined differences between heterosexual and sexual minority college student e-cigarette users in terms of days of past-month e-cigarette use, e-cigarette dependence, and e-cigarette outcome expectancies. A secondary aim of the study was to examine whether outcome expectancies served as an explanatory mechanism in the association between sexual minority status and e-cigarette use frequency and dependence. Methods: Participants were heterosexual (n = 90; Mage = 19.65, SD = 2.70; 76.7% female; 77.8% White) and sexual minority (n = 44; Mage = 20.02, SD = 2.18; 68.2% female; 90.9% White) college student e-cigarette users who completed self-report measures. Results: Students who identified as a sexual minority reported greater e-cigarette dependence, more frequent past 30-day use, and greater negative consequences and positive reinforcement e-cigarette outcome expectancies. Follow-up mediation analyses indicated a significant indirect effect of sexual minority status on both days of past-month e-cigarette use and e-cigarette dependence through expectancies for negative consequences and positive reinforcement. Conclusions: These findings suggest that positive reinforcement and negative consequences outcome expectancies may be contributing to the disparities in e-cigarette use among college students who identify as a sexual minority and could be useful targets for cessation interventions for this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]