Substance Abuse Research Articles

Prevention of Parkinson's disease: from risk factors to early interventions.

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a debilitating neurological disorder characterized by progressively worsening motor dysfunction. Currently, available therapies merely alleviate symptoms, and there are no cures. Consequently, some researchers have now shifted their attention to identifying the modifiable risk factors of PD, with the intention of possibly implementing early interventions to prevent the development of PD. Four primary risk factors for PD are discussed including environmental factors (pesticides and heavy metals), lifestyle (physical activity and dietary intake), drug abuse, and individual comorbidities. Additionally, clinical biomarkers, neuroimaging, biochemical biomarkers, and genetic biomarkers could also help to detect prodromal PD. This review compiled available evidence that illustrates the relationship between modifiable risk factors, biomarkers, and PD. In summary, we raise the distinct possibility of preventing PD via early interventions of the modifiable risk factors and early diagnosis.

A Review of Current Research on Traditional Medicines for the Treatment of Gastrointestinal and Biliary Disorders

Abstract: Gastrointestinal (GI) and biliary disorders are the most commonly known health issues for people in the present time as a consequence of modern lifestyle, eating habits, stress, and many other conditions. The usage of traditional substances has been phased out over time, resulting in an increase in the occurrence of numerous diseases and a decrease in immunity. Therefore, in the current scenario, traditional medicine is increasingly being used to treat and manage diseases worldwide. Traditional medical systems of India, China, and Africa are the most frequently used today. Indian medicinal system includes the Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani systems of medicine. Ayurveda is the most antique system of medicine, which relies on the usage of plant-based formulations. Herbal medicines are used nowadays by up to half of the world's population. Phytomedicines isolated from plants contain a wide variety of bioactive components that can have both negative and positive effects. Many herbal plants, such as Acacia, Aloe, Carum, Rose, Funnel, etc., are proven to be effective as phytomedicines that are effective for the cure of gastrointestinal and biliary problems. The available pharmacological therapeutic drugs often have efficacy but are associated with many adverse effects. To minimize the adverse effects, the use of phytomedicines can be the best possible alternative. In this study, a review of some of the most frequently used traditional herbal medicine isolates with their proven pharmacological activity and novel drug delivery systems for the proper delivery of isolates is presented. Moreover, currently available herbal-marketed formulations are also highlighted.

Intimate partner violence in India: Patterns, causes and way forward

Intimate partner violence (IPV) refers to the physical, sexual, and emotional abuse that can occur between intimate partners or spouse. 1 out of 4 women globally estimated to experience some kind of violence and in this context IPV is a major issue, especially for women. This paper tries to explores the different forms IPV including physical violence to emotional manipulation and controlling behaviors. It examines the cyclical nature of abuse related to IPV and the key factors that increase IPV risk, such as relationship conflicts, poverty, substance abuse, mental health issues, and societal gender norms around power dynamics. With special reference to India, the paper analyzes national survey data showing high rates of domestic violence across many states. While laws like the Domestic Violence Act exist, social stigma and power imbalances prevent many victims from reporting abuse. The paper emphasizes on the basis of the analysis of the literature that addressing IPV requires a multi-faceted approach which must include- promoting gender equality, strict law enforcement, providing mental health support, and crucially, changing mindsets through community engagement to remove stigma around this issue and create mass level awareness among people. Only a concerted effort from all sectors of society can prevent IPV effectively.

Suicide Prevention Programming: Comparing Four Prominent Frameworks.

Suicide is a significant public health concern. About 48,000 individuals died by suicide in 2021 in the United States, and approximately one in 100 deaths globally are due to suicide. Continuing efforts in program development and evaluation are vital to preventing suicide. Multiple frameworks have been developed to reduce suicide rates, but they have not been compared to assess their comprehensiveness, nor have their components been classified. In 2019, the authors conducted a narrative review of the literature and identified four major frameworks for suicide prevention: the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Suicide Prevention Program, the Defense Suicide Prevention Program of the U.S. Department of Defense, Zero Suicide in Health and Behavioral Health Care, and the technical package developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Program components for these frameworks were identified and classified by using two prevention strategy classification systems: the National Academy of Medicine's (NAM's) continuum-of-care model and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's (SAMHSA's) prevention model. The cross-program comparison revealed that no single program included all components of suicide prevention programs. However, the VA program was the most comprehensive in terms of the number of components and their spread across prevention strategy classifications. The programs used few components categorized under NAM's promotion or selective prevention strategy classifications. The SAMHSA prevention strategy classifications of information dissemination, community-based processes, and positive alternatives were also used infrequently. Organizations, health care systems, and policy makers may use these findings as they develop, improve, and implement suicide prevention programs.

Patterns of Adverse Childhood Experiences and Neurocognitive Development.

Early life adversity is associated with higher risk of many adult health problems, including mental illness, substance abuse, suicide attempt, and chronic diseases. Many previous studies investigated adversities one at a time or investigated the health toll associated with the cumulative number of adversities. To examine the co-occurrence of adversities among children and how specific patterns of adversities are associated with neurocognitive development. This cohort study used data from the Collaborative Perinatal Project (CPP), which enrolled a national sample of women during pregnancy and followed their offspring to ages 7 to 8 years, between 1959 and 1974. The CPP was a community-based study conducted in 12 US medical centers. The CPP sample was ascertained through prenatal clinics and is diverse with respect to race and socioeconomic status. Data analysis was performed from August 2023 to March 2024. A latent class analysis was conducted of 12 adverse childhood experiences that occurred between birth and 7 years to identify common patterns of childhood adversities. Five neurocognitive tests were used to measure children's visual-motor, sensory-motor, auditory-vocal, intelligence quotient, and academic skills. The analysis sample included 49 853 offspring (25 226 boys [50.6%]); 24 436 children (49.0%) had low probability of experiencing any adversity, whereas the remaining half were classified into 5 groups reflecting distinct patterns of childhood adversities: parental harshness and neglect, 1625 children (3.3%); parental separation and poverty, 8731 children (17.5%); family instability, 3655 children (7.3%); family loss, instability, and poverty, 1505 children (3.0%); and crowded housing and poverty, 9901 children (19.9%). Children in 4 of these groups had lower neurocognitive scores than children with a low probability of experiencing adversity, with standardized mean differences ranging from -0.07 (95% CI, -0.11 to -0.03) to -0.86 (95% CI, -1.06 to -0.65). These findings suggest that adverse childhood experiences are associated with deficits in children's neurocognitive functions. It is important to understand the complexity in children's exposure to adversity and the resulting developmental consequences, as well as the underlying mechanisms, to help support children exposed to adversity and foster healthier and resilient trajectories of development.

Facing the music: an entrepreneur’s struggle with e-commerce failure

Research methodology The case was developed in partnership with the focal entrepreneur, Michael Maher, and relies on primary data he provided. Case overview/synopsis This case is based on the experiences of Michael Maher, a Cincinnati, OH (USA)-based entrepreneur whose ecommerce business failed in 2016, largely due to a major change in Amazon’s marketplace. The case puts students in Michael’s position as this is happening. It focuses on the fact that although Michael knew, logically, that the failure was largely beyond his control, and that he “should” think about failure as a learning opportunity, emotionally and psychologically he felt terrible. The case forces students to confront this reality as they reflect on the situation and determine how Michael might best respond. The case is intended to help instructors address the often undiscussed “dark sides” of entrepreneurship, which can include financial hardship and intense stress, and also cause or exacerbate depression, substance abuse and other mental and physical health issues (Shepherd, 2019). These challenges frequently impact other involved stakeholders (e.g. family members) and, as a result, can negatively impact familial dynamics, friendships and other relationships. The goal of the case is not to discourage students from entrepreneurial activity, but to make them aware of these potential dark sides. In addition to awareness, the teaching plan is designed to provide students with tools and strategies to recognize and navigate the dark sides. Complexity academic level This case is appropriate for introductory entrepreneurship courses at the undergraduate and graduate level. It might also be used in more advanced courses focused on developing/launching a new venture (e.g. “New Venture Planning” courses). The case can be taught at any point within a given course, but it is recommended after students have developed an understanding of key entrepreneurship concepts in the focal course or in previous courses. In particular, students should have a working knowledge of the concept of “learning from failure” and other tenets of the lean startup and similar approaches (Blank, 2013; Ries, 2011). This background knowledge is important because the case confronts students with the reality that, although “learning from failure” is central to entrepreneurship, that does not necessarily eliminate the social and psychological challenges that often follow failures. Assuming students possess this background knowledge, the case is most effectively used early in a course to make students aware of the “dark sides” they might confront as an entrepreneur and set the stage for the development of strategies and skills to navigate those dark sides throughout the rest of the course. The case’s brevity means it can be assigned to be read in advance of class or during the class session in which it is being covered.

Methadone's Resurgence in Bridging the Treatment Gap in the Overdose Crisis: Position Statement of AMERSA, Inc (Association for Multidisciplinary Education, Research, Substance Use, and Addiction).

The United States is grappling with an unprecedented overdose crisis, exacerbated by the proliferation of potent synthetic opioids like illicitly manufactured fentanyl. Despite the efficacy of methadone treatment in managing opioid use disorder, regulatory barriers hinder its widespread utilization. This article examines the complex landscape of methadone regulation across federal, state, and local levels, highlighting disparities and opportunities for reform. The COVID-19 public health emergency prompted temporary flexibility in methadone regulations, including expanded take-home doses and telehealth counseling, leading to improved treatment experiences and retention. Permanent revisions to federal guidelines have since been introduced by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, reflecting a progressive shift toward patient-centered care and streamlined access. State regulations, managed by Single State Agencies and State Opioid Treatment Authorities, vary widely, often imposing additional restrictions that impede access to methadone treatment. Local OTP clinics further exacerbate barriers through stringent policies, despite federal and state guidelines advocating for flexibility. Coordinated efforts among policymakers, healthcare providers, and communities are needed to promote the development of accountability measures, incentives, and community involvement to ensure equitable access and quality of care. To truly meet the demand needed to end the existing overdose crisis and enhance accessibility and comprehensive healthcare services, methadone treatment expansion beyond traditional OTP settings into primary care offices and community pharmacies should take place.

Protective effect of dexmedetomidine against delayed bone healing caused by morphine via PI3K/Akt mediated Nrf2 antioxidant defense system

BackgroundAs a class of analgesics, opioids are frequently used to treat both acute and chronic moderate to severe pain. Patients frequently receive opioid painkillers after orthopedic accidents or surgeries. Evidence suggests that opioid drug users have a 55.1% higher risk of fracture and poor bone repair than non-users of opioid drugs. The key pathogenic alterations in the incidence and progression of poor bone repair are over apoptosis and aging of osteoblasts due to the stress caused by oxidation. Dexmedetomidine (Dex) has been proven to protect against a variety of degenerative illnesses by reducing oxidative stress. However, nothing is known about how it affects bone repair.MethodsPI3K/Akt/Nrf2 pathway was detected by immunofluorescence and Western blot. SOD, CAT, JC-1, dihydroethidium and mitosox were used in the Oxidative Stress. Micro-CT, H&E and Masson’s staining, immunohistochemically were performed to evaluate the therapeutic effects of DEX on calvarial defects in the morphine-induced rat model.ResultsWe found that morphine-induced an imbalance in the metabolism and catabolism of primary rat Osteoblasts. However, these conditions could be inhibited by DEX treatment. In the meantime, DEX induced the expression of Nrf2-regulated antioxidant enzymes such as NQO1, HO-1, GCLm, GCLc, and TrxR1. DEX-mediated Nrf2 activation is linked to the PI3K/Akt signaling system. Furthermore, it has been established that intravenous DEX enhanced the growth of bone healing in a model of a surgically produced rat cranial lesion.ConclusionThis is the first description of the unique DEX mechanism acting as a Nrf2 activator against morphine-mediated oxidative harm, raising the possibility that the substance may be used to prevent bone defects.

Role of machine learning algorithms in suicide risk prediction: a systematic review-meta analysis of clinical studies

ObjectiveSuicide is a complex and multifactorial public health problem. Understanding and addressing the various factors associated with suicide is crucial for prevention and intervention efforts. Machine learning (ML) could enhance the prediction of suicide attempts.MethodA systematic review was performed using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and SID databases. We aim to evaluate the performance of ML algorithms and summarize their effects, gather relevant and reliable information to synthesize existing evidence, identify knowledge gaps, and provide a comprehensive list of the suicide risk factors using mixed method approach.ResultsForty-one studies published between 2011 and 2022, which matched inclusion criteria, were chosen as suitable. We included studies aimed at predicting the suicide risk by machine learning algorithms except natural language processing (NLP) and image processing.The neural network (NN) algorithm exhibited the lowest accuracy at 0.70, whereas the random forest demonstrated the highest accuracy, reaching 0.94. The study assessed the COX and random forest models and observed a minimum area under the curve (AUC) value of 0.54. In contrast, the XGBoost classifier yielded the highest AUC value, reaching 0.97. These specific AUC values emphasize the algorithm-specific performance in capturing the trade-off between sensitivity and specificity for suicide risk prediction.Furthermore, our investigation identified several common suicide risk factors, including age, gender, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, alcohol consumption, marital status, income, education, and occupation. This comprehensive analysis contributes valuable insights into the multifaceted nature of suicide risk, providing a foundation for targeted preventive strategies and intervention efforts.ConclusionsThe effectiveness of ML algorithms and their application in predicting suicide risk has been controversial. There is a need for more studies on these algorithms in clinical settings, and the related ethical concerns require further clarification.

Unveiling the patterns: exploring social and clinical characteristics of frequent mental health visits to the emergency department-a comprehensive systematic review.

Frequent presenters (FPs) are a group of individuals who visit the hospital emergency department (ED) frequently for urgent care. Many among the group present with the main diagnosis of mental health conditions. This group of individual tend to use ED resources disproportionally and significantly affects overall healthcare outcomes. No previous reviews have examined the profiles of FPs with mental health conditions. This study aims to identify the key socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of patients who frequently present to ED with a mental health primary diagnosis by performing a comprehensive systematic review of the existing literature. PRISMA guideline was used. PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus and Web of Science (WOS) were searched in May 2023. A manual search on the reference list of included articles was conducted at the same time. Covidence was used to perform extraction and screening, which were completed independently by two authors. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were defined. The abstracts of 3341 non-duplicate articles were screened, with 40 full texts assessed for eligibility. 20 studies were included from 2004 to 2022 conducted in 6 countries with a total patient number of 25,688 (52% male, 48% female, mean age 40.7years old). 27% were unemployed, 20% married, 41% homeless, and 17% had tertiary or above education. 44% had a history of substance abuse or alcohol dependence. The top 3 diagnoses are found to be anxiety disorders (44%), depressive disorders (39%) schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders (33%). On average, FPs are middle-aged and equally prevalent in both genders. Current data lacks representation for gender-diverse groups. They are significantly associated with high rates of unemployment, homelessness, lower than average education level, and being single. Anxiety disorder, depressive disorder, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders are the most common clinical diagnoses associated with the group.

Relationship Between Substance Abuse and Sexual Violence among Women in Informal Urban Settlements in Nairobi City County, Kenya

Sexual assault is against the law in Kenya. Yet many people, particularly women and girls, continue to experience Sexual and Gender-based Violence (SGBV) without receiving much assistance, suggesting that the regulations in place are ineffective. Drug and substance abuse has also become prevalent, especially among persons living within informal urban settings. This with the attendant rise in cases of domestic and SGBV means that there is a growing need for a deeper understanding of the nexus between drug abuse and sexual violence against women, and in particular, within Nairobi's informal urban settlements. Many women in Kenya have experienced sexual or physical assault. The research sought to determine the relationship between substance abuse and sexual violence among women in Nairobi City County's informal urban settlements; The Social Learning Theory guided this research adopting a correlation study design with a target population of 139 women in the groups who have experienced GBV and SGBV. Using stratified selection and proportional sampling approaches, the Yamane formula was utilized to calculate the sample size of 106 respondents. Information was gathered through questionnaires. Descriptive statistics as well as inferential statistics like Pearson moment correlation and chi-square analysis, were used to analyse the data. From the study, it was indicated that both substance abuse and sexual violence have tremendous negative consequences on the health, socioeconomic, emotional, and psychological disposition of a person. The study also demonstrated the rise in drug and substance abuse led to an increase in cases of sexual violence. This shows that efforts to combat drug use and substance abuse have not been successful. Therefore, the study suggests that the government develop more potent methods of combating drug use and substance abuse

Addressing Psychosocial Challenges through Action: A Fieldwork Experience in Community Medicine Department, Aligarh Muslim University

This research article explores the psychosocial challenges faced by patients in the community. The study draws on firsthand experiences as a social work intern in the Community Medicine department. It delves into the intricacies of psychosocial issues prevalent among community members, including substance abuse, family problems, depression, and financial instability. The article emphasises the importance of targeted interventions to address the multifaceted needs of individuals in the community. To tackle these psychosocial challenges, the research outlines community workshops, counselling services, mental health awareness campaigns, and support groups. The interventions aimed to empower individuals, foster resilience, and promote overall well-being within the community. After implementing these initiatives, the article analyses the observed changes in individuals, highlighting improvements in coping mechanisms, enhanced social support networks, and increased awareness of mental health issues. Moreover the study also provides insights into the effectiveness of psychosocial interventions in community medicine.The study highlights the importance of holistic healthcare approaches that prioritize the psychosocial dimensions of well-being

The occurrence and severity of obsessive-compulsive disorder in the opium and amphetamine users

ABSTRACT Objective Simultaneous occurrence of psychological disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) has been reported in patients with a history of substance abuse. We evaluated the occurrence and severity of OCD in opium and amphetamine users. Methods In this cross-sectional study, patients with a history of opium use (n = 100) or with a history of amphetamine use (n = 100) were studied. The diagnosis of OCD was based on the Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive questionnaire. Results Regarding the prevalence of OCD in the two groups of opium and amphetamine users, 36% and 22% suffered from very mild OCD, 48% and 36% from mild OCD, 13% and 27% from moderate OCD and 3% and 15% from severe OCD. The severity of OCD was independent of gender and marital status in both groups. In amphetamine users’ group, OCD severity was linked to patients’ age and time for drug usage. Conclusion The severity of OCD is much more severe in amphetamine-dependent patients than in opium-dependent patients. In opioid-dependent patients, the severity of OCD is independent of gender, age, marital status, or duration of drug use, but in amphetamine-dependent patients, the severity of disorder is directly related to age and duration of amphetamine use.

P.021 Nonclinical studies of abuse potential with dual orexin-receptor antagonists: concordance with real-world use

Background: Traditional insomnia drugs enhance gamma-aminobutyric acid and are associated with abuse/dependence. Dual orexin-receptor antagonists (DORAs) represent an alternate mechanism promoting wakefulness, rather than inhibition. Nonclinical studies indicate DORAs do not demonstrate abuse potential. Nonetheless, based on human abuse potential (HAP) studies and lack of postmarketing data at approval, DORAs are Schedule 4 controlled substances. However, HAP studies may not predict real-world abuse-potential risk. Methods: Adverse events with preferred terms (PTs) of drug-withdrawal-syndrome, drug-abuse, and drug-dependence were evaluated from Eisai’s ongoing global postmarketing safety surveillance system in the US, Canada, and Japan (20/Dec/2019–30/Sep/2023) and the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS; 01/Jan/2015–30/Jun/2023). In FAERS, reports of those PTs from DORAs (lemborexant/suvorexant/daridorexant) were compared with zolpidem and with benzodiazepines approved for patients with insomnia (estazolam/temazepam/triazolam). Results: Since lemborexant’s approval, few of the 3 PTs were reported in Eisai’s surveillance system (~0.15 cases per million patient-days of global exposure). Reports in FAERS for PTs of drug-withdrawal-syndrome, drug-abuse, and drug-dependence for DORAs (10,202 reports) were <0.1%/<0.1%/0.1%, respectively. Reports for benzodiazepines (5534 reports) were 0.8%/12.9%/3.7%, respectively, and 1.0%/9.1%/5.3% for zolpidem (18,330 reports), respectively. Conclusions: Abuse potential may be better represented by nonclinical studies and national surveillance systems, suggesting DORAs may not pose meaningful abuse potential and related risks.

How do the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's Technology Transfer Centers Decide What Evidence-Based Practices to Disseminate and Determine How to Do So? A Cross-Sectional Study of a National Network.

It is important to use evidence-based programs and practices (EBPs) to address major public health issues. However, those who use EBPs in real-world settings often require support in bridging the research-to-practice gap. In the US, one of the largest systems that provides such support is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's (SAMHSA's) Technology Transfer Center (TTC) Network. As part of a large external evaluation of the Network, this study examined how TTCs determine which EBPs to promote and how to promote them. Using semi-structured interviews and pre-testing, we developed a "Determinants of Technology Transfer" survey that was completed by 100% of TTCs in the Network. Because the study period overlapped with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, we also conducted a retrospective pre/post-pandemic comparison of determinants. TTCs reported relying on a broad group of factors when selecting EBPs to disseminate and the methods to do so. Stakeholder and target audience input and needs were consistently the most important determinant (both before and during COVID-19), while some other determinants fluctuated around the pandemic (e.g., public health mandates, instructions in the funding opportunity announcements). We discuss implications of the findings for technology transfer and frame the analyses in terms of the Interactive Systems Framework for Dissemination and Implementation.

Continuous Quality Improvement in the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's Technology Transfer Center Network: A Process Evaluation.

In healthcare and related fields, there is often a gap between research and practice. Scholars have developed frameworks to support dissemination and implementation of best practices, such as the Interactive Systems Framework for Dissemination and Implementation, which shows how scientific innovations are conveyed to practitioners through tools, training, and technical assistance (TA). Underpinning those aspects of the model are evaluation and continuous quality improvement (CQI). However, a recent meta-analysis suggests that the approaches to and outcomes from CQI in healthcare vary considerably, and that more evaluative work is needed. Therefore, this paper describes an assessment of CQI processes within the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's (SAMHSA) Technology Transfer Center (TTC) Network, a large TA/TTC system in the United States comprised of 39 distinct centers. We conducted key informant interviews (n = 71 representing 28 centers in the Network) and three surveys (100% center response rates) focused on CQI, time/effort allocation, and Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA) measures. We used data from each of these study components to provide a robust picture of CQI within a TA/TTC system, identifying Network-specific concepts, concerns about conflation of the GPRA data with CQI, and principles that might be studied more generally.

The use and potential abuse of psychoactive plants in southern Africa: an overview of evidence and future potential

BackgroundMost Bantu ethnic groups in southern Africa utilize indigenous herbal medicines, some of which have psychoactive properties. Traditional medical practitioners (TMPs) commonly use them not only for divinatory purposes but to treat and manage mental and other illnesses. Unfortunately, the research on their results, risks, and benefits do not align. Little is known about their potential abuse among TMPs and community members in southern Africa. Herbal medicines are complex because whole plants are sometimes used, unlike in other treatments which use only one active ingredient. However, if the key mechanisms of action of these ethnomedicinal plants can be identified through socio-pharmacological research, useful botanical agents can be developed. A review of socio-pharmacological studies to evaluate the consequences of exposure to ethnomedicinal plants with psychoactive properties was conducted with the aim of identifying harm reduction strategies and investigating how the plants could be developed into useful botanicals.MethodThe search methods involved retrieval of records from PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Dissertations and Theses Global, and OpenGrey. The English language and human subjects were used as filters. In addition, some information was obtained from TMPs and community members.ResultsThe following psychoactive plants were found to be commonly used or abused: Boophone disticha, Cannabis sativa, Datura stramonium, Leonotis leonurus, Psilocybe cubensis, and Sceletium tortuosum. The commercialization of Cannabis, L. leonurus, S. tortuosum, and Aspalathus is growing fast. The abuse liability of B. disticha, D. stramonium, and P. cubensis appears not to be appreciated. Five countries were found to have TMP policies and three with TMP Councils.ConclusionTMPs in the region are aware of the CNS effects of the identified psychoactive plants which can be explored further to develop therapeutic agents. There is a need to work closely with TMPs to reduce harm from the abuse of these plants.

From Extreme Ideas to Violent and Nonviolent Outcomes: An In-Depth Analysis of Probation Files on Terrorist Suspects in the Netherlands

ABSTRACT How do individuals who commit violent terrorist crimes differ from those who commit nonviolent terrorist crimes? In this study, we compare characteristics and pathways of violent (VTS) and nonviolent (NVTS) individuals prior to being suspected or convicted of crimes with terrorist intent (e.g. planning an attack, financing terrorism) in the Netherlands through an analysis of probation files. Departing from a social control and life-course perspective, we examine possible signs and triggers leading up to the terrorist suspicion, various life domains (socio-demographic characteristics, social network, and personality related variables), mental health, criminal histories, and online activities. Findings demonstrate primarily resemblances between both groups. Nonetheless, compared to NVTS, VTS showed more indications of signs of acting in accordance with extreme ideological beliefs and feelings of injustice, had a more disadvantaged socioeconomic background, were more often involved with other radicals (e.g. in groups and/or online), had more substance abuse problems, and were more active online in relation to their terrorist suspicion. NVTS, on the other hand, had more regularly a turbulent youth, more commonly ever showed indications of aggressive behavior, had more often mental health problems, and, consequently, received more social care compared to VTS. Implications and avenues for future research are discussed.

Enhancing Substance Use Disorder Recovery through Integrated Physical Activity and Behavioral Interventions: A Comprehensive Approach to Treatment and Prevention

The global issue of substance abuse demands ongoing initiatives aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. With drug use remaining prevalent worldwide, interventions are critical to addressing the associated health challenges and societal implications. Exercise and physical activities have emerged as integral components of substance use disorder (SUD) treatment, offering promising avenues for prevention, intervention, and recovery. Recent research underscores the efficacy of exercise in reducing substance cravings, promoting abstinence, and improving overall well-being. However, integrating exercise into SUD recovery programs presents challenges such as dropout rates and cultural considerations. This paper synthesizes existing literature on exercise integration into SUD recovery, highlighting strategies for enhancing treatment outcomes and addressing barriers to exercise adherence. Drawing on cognitive–behavioral therapy, experiential learning, motivational interviewing, and goal-setting techniques, the holistic approach outlined in this paper aims to empower individuals both mentally and physically, fostering resilience and supporting long-term recovery. In conclusion, new initiatives need to be taken by advocating for inclusive policies, promoting community engagement, and fostering collaborations across sectors. By doing so, stakeholders can optimize the effectiveness of exercise programs and contribute to sustainable rehabilitation efforts for individuals with SUD.

Report from Stop Stigma Now's Lubran at AATOD

Bob Lubran was at AATOD, not as an attendee, but as an exhibitor for Stop Stigma Now. An old friend and colleague, he shared some of his perceptions from the meeting. As the former director of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Office of Pharmacologic Therapies, he has many connections in the OTP world. “I've been very impressed with the people who came by and stopped to chat,” he told ADAW. “There were a lot of new providers from rural areas. Very enthusiastic. Met some recruiters for Acadia – and such a huge organization. Overall, it's been very positive in my view.”