The 17th edition of the annual banned-substance review just came out, and it's all about the latest findings in human sports drug testing. This one covers research published between October 2023 and September 2024. Just like before, the focus is on new ways to detect doping and figure out how certai
Substance use disorders are complex issues that are influenced by both our genes and our environment. One key player in this mix is serotonin, a chemical in our brain that's linked to how we feel and behave. Scientists have found that variations in the genes that control serotonin receptors might ma
Scientists have been playing with the building blocks of molecules to see how changes can impact their behavior. They took a special type of molecule called N-methylpyrrole azo-benzene, which can switch between different forms when light hits it. They made these molecules in different ways, swapping
Violence, both at home and in public, is a real issue among those who rely on crack cocaine in Brazil. Researchers wanted to understand howusers of crack deal with domestic violence, how often they face public violence, and how being male or female affects these situations. They focused on whether t
In Burr Ridge, Illinois, the local school district is grappling with a high rate of teacher absenteeism. The problem isn't new, as this year, 38% of teachers missed at least 10 days. Why? Health issues are a major reason, says the superintendent. Other districts like Gower (33%) and Pleasantdale (25
Did you know that deep beneath the surface of the Earth, there's a whole world of tiny creatures? The Eger Rift is one such place, known for its frequent earthquakes and high CO2 levels. Scientists drilled down 238 meters to study the rocks and sediments, finding a fascinating mix of microbes. They
Ever thought of your brain as a bustling city with tiny garbage trucks inside? These are actually macroautophagy, the process our brain cells use to clean themselves. It's crucial for keeping our brains in tip-top shape. But drugs like cocaine, meth, opiates, or alcohol can give it a run for its mon
Imagine you're walking down a dark alley. You might think about crime and how it can hurt people. But have you ever thought about how it can affect a person's lifespan? This study took a closer look at this topic, specifically for people with substance use problems. They wanted to know if violent cr
Phytoplankton, tiny ocean plants, have a daily rhythm. They produce a lot of carbohydrates and amino acids which bacteria love to eat. These nutrients have daily ups and downs, playing a big role in the ocean's nutrient cycle. Across different ocean areas, like near Antarctica and in the tropics, th
These days, mobile health or mHealth technologies are super popular. But guess what? We don't know much about how these apps and tools help people with HIV who also deal with substance use disorders. The big question is: Which mHealth system features can really make a difference in keeping these fol
