Use Of Psychotropic Substances Research Articles

Особенности осуществления наркоконтроля в Швейцарии

Purpose: to analyze the legislative regulation and public policy of the Swiss Confederation regarding control over the circulation and use of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, as well as practical aspects of the implementation of this control. Research methods: the methodological basis of the study is to use a systematic method, an analysis method, as well as formal legal and technical legal methods. Conclusions: as a result of the research work, a conclusion was drawn: the ‘four pillars’ policy allows the Swiss Confederation to exercise effective control over the circulation and use of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. Scientific and practical significance: the results of the study can be used to improve the legislative regulation of control over the circulation and use of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances in other countries, including the Russian Federation.

Совершенствование законодательства о борьбе с пропагандой употребления и распространения наркотических средств и психотропных веществ

The purpose of the work is to develop proposals for optimizing measures aimed at preventing the spread and popularization of the use of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances on the territory of the Russian Federation. The methodological basis of the study was the logical, dialectical method, the method of theoretical forecasting and theoretical research. Conclusions: the authors come to the conclusion that it is necessary to expand the concept of ‘propaganda’ of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. It is proposed to amend the Code of the Russian Federation on Administrative Offenses and the Federal Law ‘On Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances’ in order to determine the illegal nature of covert propaganda and advertising of the use and distribution of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. The scientific and practical significance of the work lies in substantiating the need for reforms of the current institutional and legal framework, as well as improving forms of counteraction to criminal groups specializing in the production and sale of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances.

Jail-Based For-Profit Mental Health Providers and Treatment Engagement After Release.

This study compared mental health treatment engagement among people with serious mental illness after release from jails that had either a for-profit (N=3 jails) or a nonprofit mental health provider (N=7 jails). Across the 10 jails, data were collected in 2019 for 1,238 individuals with serious mental illness. Data included demographic characteristics (age, race-ethnicity, gender, geography, and jail type) and behavioral health variables (previous mental health treatment, psychotropic medication use, substance use, and receipt of jail-based mental health services). Logistic regression was used to predict treatment engagement during the year after release, stratified by type of jail-based mental health provider, in analyses controlled for demographic and behavioral health variables. Almost half (46%, N=573) of the individuals had stayed in jails with a for-profit mental health provider; the other half (54%, N=665) had stayed in jails with a nonprofit provider. In the year after release, 37% (N=458) of all individuals engaged in mental health treatment, and 63% (N=780) did not. Those who had stayed in a jail with a for-profit provider were significantly less likely to engage in mental health treatment during the year after release (AOR=0.59, 95% CI=0.42-0.83, p<0.01), compared with those in jails having a nonprofit provider. Staying in a jail with a for-profit mental health provider was associated with reduced postrelease engagement with community service providers. Less engagement with services during a pivotal time after release may increase behavioral health crises that erode individuals' well-being and may raise downstream costs due to further criminal legal involvement and emergency care use.

Unveiling the shadows - Substance use among para-athletes: A qualitative study with Swiss elite para-athletes

Background Despite the growth of para-sport, little research has been conducted on psychotropic substance use among Swiss elite para-athletes (McDuff et al., 2019; Rice et al., 2016; Weber et al., 2022). This study is among the first to explore this under-researched area, focusing on athletes’ perceptions and mental health concerns related to substance use. Methodology Adopting a qualitative research design, this study conducted semi-structured interviews with fifteen (N = 15) active Swiss adult elite para-athletes from nine different summer and winter sports. Thematic analysis was employed to interpret the interview data, focusing on athletes' perceptions and experiences related to substance use (Guest et al., 2012). Findings On the one hand, an increase in athletic level and professionalisation seem to leave little room for the use of substances that could be detrimental to athletic performance. On the other hand, the results suggest that stress, negative emotions, physical pain, and a background of substance use may be positively associated with substance use in elite para-athletes (Lardi et al., in preparation). Conclusion The findings suggest a need for targeted interventions and support systems within athletic federations. Proposed measures include the development of comprehensive prevention strategies, regulatory frameworks, and treatment programs tailored to the unique needs of para-athletes. This study contributes valuable insights into substance use among Swiss elite para-athletes, advocating for specialized interventions to support athlete well-being.

Study of Efficiency and Reliability of Conventional Techniques for examination of Cannabis received in the Laboratory

Illicit use of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances is becoming a major problem in India. People from different age groups are consuming illicit drugs and experiencing dependence and addiction problem. Cannabis is one such drug, a flowering plant having psychoactive nature due to presence of different cannabinoids. Its analysis in stepwise manner is essential for recognition. The forensic analysis is performed by using various techniques such as microscopy, chromatography, spectroscopy, etc. Currently, the forensic examination of cannabis is more focused on qualitative analysis in preliminary examination though quantitative analysis is also important which can play a major role in investigation. The present study focuses on analysis of cannabis sativa by color test, thin layer chromatography, UV visible spectroscopy and IR spectroscopy. Estimation of limit of detection for all methods for cannabis is the prime goal. According to the study, LoD for Fast Blue B and Duquenois Levine test is found to be 0.001 mg/mL and 0.125 mg/mL, respectively while LoD for thin layer chromatography and UV visible spectrophotometry is observed to be 0.5 mg/mL. and 0.10 mg/mL, respectively. The study helps to determine the sensitivity of all above mentioned techniques for cannabis examination along with its functional group identification.

Psychosocial predictors of quality of life among women living with HIV/AIDS: a cross-sectional study in a VCT centre in Shiraz, Iran.

We aimed to assess psychosocial predictors of quality of life (QOL) among women living with HIV/AIDS (WLHIV). QOL has been considered as an important indicator in evaluating the outcome of psychological and physical healthcare in people living with HIV (PLHIV). This cross-sectional study was carried out from October 2021 to April 2022 at the Voluntary, Counselling, and Testing (VCT) center in Shiraz, Iran. A total of 452 WLHIV were included in this study. Socio-demographic and clinical data, social support (MSPSS questionnaire), food insecurity (HFIAS questionnaire), resilience (CD-RISC questionnaire), mental health status (DASS questionnaire), and QOL (WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire) were collected through direct interviews and patients' files at Shiraz VCT. Physical and social relationships domains of QOL had the highest (60.48 ± 18.00) and lowest (36.76 ± 23.88) scores, respectively. Higher clinical stage, psychotropic substances use, having a husband infected with HIV, history of hypertension, and higher socioeconomic status had a significant relationship with some domains of QOL. The score of social support, food insecurity, resilience, and mental health status had a significant relationship with all domains of QOL. Social relationships domain of QOL had the lowest scores in WLHIV. Also, the mental health status of WLHIV was more related to their QOL than the physical status related to HIV/AIDS. Interventions such as improving the mental health care and resilience skills of WLHIV, including their social network in counseling services to promote their social support, could help them to improve their QOL.

MODERN PROBLEMS OF DEVELOPING A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE AMONG YOUNG PEOPLE

Youth in modern society is the most dynamically developing link and therefore the health and lifestyle of young people is one of the main prerequisites for development in Ukraine. But when considering the current state of health of young people, we can state the fact that in the field of youth health there is a real threat to the development of the society of our state. Today, the formation of a healthy lifestyle is one of the main directions of state youth policy. The main elements of organizational work towards the formation of a healthy lifestyle for young people include promoting the activities of youth organizations that carry out the prevention of drug addiction in adolescents and young adults. A significant place in the activities of state youth policy bodies is occupied by the support of projects and programs of student social and pedagogical teams, whose activities are aimed at working with school, student, and student youth to create a healthy lifestyle for young people. This area also includes maintenance, support, and assistance in technical equipment for the activities of institutions for the prevention of deviant behavior among young people [2]. In the modern world, the problems of maintaining a healthy lifestyle come to the fore. Problems with the use of psychotropic substances among young people are gaining momentum. Increasingly, the media hears horrifying statistics on mortality from the use of psychoactive substances. Today, these problems require immediate resolution, and their solution requires confident steps from the state.

Forensic mental health assessments of juvenile misdemeanor cases involving demoralization (status offenses) and delinquency

PurposeThe role of evidence-based psychological knowledge in cases of juvenile offending is essential to make appropriate decisions relating to youth who violate legal or social norms, as it carries implications for treatment, intervention and practice. Psychological expert opinions therefore need to meet high formal and methodological requirements while maintaining ethical standards. The purpose of this study is to investigate psychological expert opinions in cases of juvenile misbehavior reported to regional courts in Poland. Juvenile court proceedings concern cases of demoralization and/or delinquent offenses. Demoralization is a legal concept described in the Act of June 9, 2022 on juvenile support and resocialization. This concept was not defined; it was only described through examples of behaviors indicating demoralization. These include the following: violations of the principles of community life; evading compulsory education or schooling; use of alcohol, narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances, their precursors, substitutes or new psychoactive substances; and prostitution.Design/methodology/approachTo reach these goals, court records of juvenile cases in six district courts (N = 253) were gathered and analyzed. A semistructured questionnaire was used to examine the cases in which psychologists were appointed and to analyze the procedures used by these experts for assessing adolescents and their families.FindingsFindings revealed that family judges appoint psychologists both in cases of “demoralization” (i.e. status offenses) and in cases of juvenile delinquency. The opinions were delivered by psychologists who were mostly members of diagnostic teams. Results indicate that such opinions generally comply with the minimal standards recommended by the Ministry of Justice, yet a few problems were observed with the determination of levels of demoralization.Originality/valueThe limitations of diagnostic tools used by psychologists are discussed, and recommendations for future practice are provided.

Strategi Preventif Penggunaan NAPZA Berbasis Pemberdayaan (Studi Kasus Pondok Pesantren Al-Isti'anah Kabupaten Pati)

The use of Narcotics, Alcohol, Psychotropic Substances, and Other Addictive Substances (NAPZA) has become a serious problem in various segments of society, including among students in Islamic boarding schools. This research aims to develop and analyze empowerment-based prevention strategies for NAPZA use at the Al-Isti'anah Boarding School in Pati Regency. The study adopts a qualitative approach with a case study research design. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with the leaders of the boarding school, teachers, and students. Additionally, participatory observation and document analysis were conducted to obtain a comprehensive overview of the context and dynamics within the boarding school. The results of the research indicate that Al-Isti'anah Boarding School has implemented various empowerment-based prevention strategies for NAPZA use. These strategies include the establishment of educational programs on the dangers of NAPZA, the development of social skills, the cultivation of religious and moral values, and the creation of an environment that supports and reinforces healthy lifestyle choices. Empowerment is achieved by actively involving all stakeholders, including leaders, teachers, students, and families. Various activities such as archery, wood carving, local food cultivation, and graphic design of calligraphy are conducted to divert specific concentrations on the negative impacts of NAPZA use.

Pharmacological correction of neurological disorders in the relief of alcohol withdrawal syndrome

Among the existing addictions, the greatest medical and social problems are created by chemical dependencies associated with the use of alcohol, narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. Neurological disorders in alcoholism are distinguished by the multifactorial nature of their genesis. Pharmacological correction of potential neurological disorders in alcohol users should be considered from the perspective of prescribing drugs with polymodal effects, which justifies the search for the most promising and effective means of pharmacological correction of mental and somatoneurological consequences of alcoholism. The aim of the study was to analyze the dynamics of neurological symptoms under the control of laboratory indicators of toxic liver damage to assess the effectiveness of complex pharmacotherapy of alcohol withdrawal syndrome. 40 patients (average age 43.2±7.2 years) who are being treated for alcohol withdrawal syndrome were examined. A neurological examination and a study of blood biochemical parameters were carried out to assess the functional state of the liver. Neurological organic symptom complex was detected in all observed patients and was a diffuse focal symptomatology associated with cerebral and polyneuritic disorders. Laboratory indicators of the functional state of the liver in patients taking morpholinium- methyl-triazolyl-thioacetate orally showed a statistically significant difference before and after therapy, in the absolute majority of cases positive hemodynamic dynamics and regression of neurological symptoms were observed. Morpholinium-methyl-triazolyl-thioacetate has polymodal effects and can be used not only for alcoholic hepatitis, but also for the correction of cardiological and neurological disorders associated with alcoholic liver damage. It is advisable to consider Thiotriazoline® as a means of choice in the complex therapy of alcoholic liver damage in the outpatient unit.

Caffeinated Soda Intake in Children Is Associated with Neurobehavioral Risk Factors for Substance Misuse

Background and objectives Use of psychotropic substances in childhood has been associated with both impulsivity and other manifestations of poor executive function as well as escalation over time to use of progressively stronger substances. However, how this relationship may start in earlier childhood has not been well explored. Here, we investigated the neurobehavioral correlates of daily caffeinated soda consumption in preadolescent children and examined whether caffeinated soda intake is associated with a higher risk of subsequent alcohol initiation. Methods Using Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development study data (N = 2,092), we first investigated cross-sectional relationships between frequent caffeinated soda intake and well-known risk factors of substance misuse: impaired working memory, high impulsivity, and aberrant reward processing. We then examined whether caffeinated soda intake at baseline predicts more alcohol sipping at 12 months follow-up using a machine learning algorithm. Results Daily consumption of caffeinated soda was cross-sectionally associated with neurobehavioral risk factors for substance misuse such as higher impulsivity scores and lower working memory performance. Furthermore, caffeinated soda intake predicted a 2.04 times greater likelihood of alcohol sipping after 12 months, even after controlling for rates of baseline alcohol sipping rates. Conclusions These findings suggest that previous linkages between caffeine and substance use in adolescence also extend to younger initiation, and may stem from core neurocognitive features thought conducive to substance initiation.

Opiate maintenance patients' attitudes and self-reported adherence to protective measures against SARS-CoV-2 infections.

During the COVID-19 pandemic we assessed to which extent patients in opioid maintenance treatment (OMT) adhere to official recommendations regarding preventive intervention strategies against COVID-19. Patients enrolled in two OMT clinics in Germany were interviewed applying a standardized questionnaire, which covered socio-demographic information, recent psychotropic substance use, recent social activities, the history of SARS-CoV-2 infection, attitudes toward official protection recommendations, and levels of adherence to these suggestions. Current mental and medical diagnoses were retrieved from medical files. In subjects without known infection and without vaccination, blood samples were tested for the identification of anti-SARS-CoV-2-S-antibodies. Interviews were performed between the end of May and the end of September 2021. Patients' (n = 155) average age was 47 years; 74% were males. In addition to the opiate dependence, in nearly 80% of cases another medical disorder was recorded. The range of medical factors that predispose for severe COVID-19 outcomes were present in 39% of patients; 18% of the sample refused to be vaccinated. Nearly all patients reported having carried out a range of activities outside their residence during the week prior to the interviews, including visits of treatment facilities (86.5%; 95% confidence interval [80.2%; 91.0%]) or meeting with friends (64.5% [65.7-71.6%]). Despite the fact that only about 47.1% [39.2%; 55%] felt well informed about measures against infection, adherence to COVID-19 countermeasures was generally high: 83.9% [77.3; 88.8%] claimed to have worn face masks always/nearly always; social distancing was performed always/nearly always by 58.7% [50.8%; 66.2%]; and hand hygiene was conducted by 64.5% [56.7%; 71.6%] of participants. None out of n = 25 tests from unvaccinated subjects was positive for anti-SARS-CoV-2-S-antibodies. Psychiatric comorbidity and educational degree were not statistically significantly associated with attitudes and compliance, except that patients with lower education felt relatively worse informed. Self-reported adherence to recommended non-therapeutic intervention strategies and vaccination rates were similar to the German general population. Provision of more health-related information tailored to OMT patients appears necessary.

Substance Use, Pharmacotherapy and Impact of Pharmacotherapy for Renal System: A Review

Increase of the substance abuse, especially narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, is a major challenge faced by entire region of the world. The use of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances without medical supervision is associated with significant health risks to the individual who depend on drugs. Therefore, providing of proper treatment services and interventions is important and it must be based on scientific evidence, and match the specific needs of individual patients at a particular phase or severity of their disorder. As a part of that medications can be very helpful in managing and/or treating a variety of drug use disorders and health conditions due to drug use, such as acute intoxication and overdose, withdrawal syndromes, as well as a variety of comorbid disorders. Pharmacological interventions should be administered, when appropriate, alongside psychosocial interventions. Majority of these abusive drugs, medications or their metabolites are excreted through the kidneys. Therefore renal complications including wide range of glomerular, interstitial and vascular diseases leading to acute or chronic renal failure of these drugs are very common. The present review discusses the possible renal complications associated with pharmacotherapy

The relationship between being in places intended for the use of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances – A descriptive and analytical study

يرتبط التواجد في الأماكن المعدة لتعاطي المخدرات، والمؤثرات العقلية بعلاقة وثيقة، إذ أن الواقعة الجرمية للتواجد في الأماكن المعدة لتعاطي المخدرات، والمؤثرات العقلية تعد متماثلةً من حيث التجريم، والعقوبة، ويهدف الباحث في دراسته إلى بيان القواعد، والأحكام القانونية ذات الصلة بالتواجد في الأماكن المعدَّة لتعاطي المخدرات، والمؤثرات العقلية من خلال اتباع المنهج الوصفي التحليلي، وقد توصل الباحث في هذه الدراسة إلى عدة نتائج، وتوصيات، حيث تتمثل أبرز نتائج البحث فيما يلي: أن تجريم التواجد في أماكن تعاطي المخدرات، والمؤثرات العقلية يعتبر من باب سد الذريعة المؤدية للتعاطي، والمتاجرة. تعتبر العلاقة بين التواجد في أماكن تعاطي المخدرات، والمؤثرات العقلية علاقة مشتركة من حيث التكييف القانوني، أو المسؤولية الجزائية. لا يوجد نص قانوني-فيما وقف عليه الباحث- يفرق بين التعاطي، والاستعمال في الأحكام المتعلقة بالمخدرات، والمؤثرات العقلية. تحقق المسؤولية الجزائية عند التواجد في أماكن تعاطي المخدرات، والمؤثرات العقلية، وذلك بتوافر الركن المادي، والمعنوي لجريمة التواجد في هذه الأماكن. العقوبة المقررة لجريمة التواجد في أماكن تعاطي المخدرات، والمؤثرات العقلية من العقوبات المخففة التي نصَّت عليها معظم القوانين؛ لكونها مقدمة للتعاطي، والمتاجرة. مراعاة استثناء بعض الفئات من إدراجهم ضمن حكم التواجد في أماكن تعاطي المخدرات، والمؤثرات العقلية بحكم قرابتهم اللصيقة بمن يقوم بتوفير أماكن التعاطي. وجاءت أبرز التوصيات كالتالي: إقامة الندوات، والمؤتمرات، والقيام بالأبحاث العلمية التي تبين مدى خطورة التواجد في أماكن تعاطي المخدرات، والمؤثرات العقلية. توعية المجتمع خاصة الفئة العمرية الصغيرة من الانزلاق في التواجد في الأماكن المشبوهة. مراجعة القوانين في التفريق بين التعاطي، والاستعمال للمخدرات، والمؤثرات العقلية، من حيث المدلول، والأثر. عمل الدراسات المقارنة المتعلقة بموضوع الدراسة، ونشرها على نطاق واسع لمزيد من الإثراء المعرفي. تتبع الأحكام القضائية ذات الارتباط بالتواجد في الأماكن المعدة لتعاطي المخدرات، والمؤثرات العقلية.

Peculiarities of functioning of the medical supply system for troops (forces) during the operation to force Georgia to peace in South Ossetia (august 7–12, 2008)

The activities of providing medical equipment to the troops (forces) participating in the operation to force Georgia to peace in South Ossetia (August 712, 2008) are presented. The functioning features of medical supply institutions and units on the eve and after the invasion of the military contingents of Georgia into South Ossetia are shown. The chronology of the activities of units and institutions of medical supply in the combat zone is outlined. The features of providing troops (forces) with medicines and blood products, disinfectants, and medical products are revealed. The purchase procedure, delivery routes, and creation of a reserve of the most demanded medical equipment, as well as the dispatch and repair of mobile medical equipment in preparation for an operation and during hostilities, have been determined. Owing to the professionalism of the medical service specialists of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation at all levels of military healthcare, a grouping of forces and means were quickly developed, including medical supply units, and institutions. The functioning issues on the system of providing medical supply to troops (forces) are indicated, considering the negative impact of objective and subjective factors and the characteristics of measures to optimize it based on the experience of medical support for troops (forces) during the operation to force Georgia to peace. The implementation of research and development improve the regulatory legal framework relating to the use of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances in combat conditions and the creation of modern models of complete and standard equipment: first-aid kits, medical bags, medical equipment sets, and medical, and styling sets. In general, organizing the provision of medical equipment to troops (forces) during the operation to force Georgia to peace in South Ossetia allowed the involved institutions and medical supply units to cope with the tasks. Medical supply specialists of all levels of military healthcare selflessly performed their professional duties. With their efforts, military medical organizations, formations, and military units were almost completely provided with medical equipment, which contributed to the timely and complete provision of medical care and treatment of the wounded (injured).

Chemsex, HIV, and Psychiatric Diagnosis in Gay or Bisexual Men in Hong Kong

Background: Psychotropic substance use, for chemsex in particular, is common in gay or bisexual men (GBM) with HIV infection. This case-control study examined the association between Axis I psychiatric disorders and active psychotropic substance use, and identified factors affecting the prevalence of psychiatric disorders in HIV-infected GBM. Methods: Participants were 62 HIV-infected self-identified GBM who reported psychotropic substance use in the past 1 year (cases), and 55 HIV-infected self-identified GBM without psychotropic substance use in the past 1 year and had negative toxicology tests at recruitment (controls). The Chinese-bilingual Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV (Axis I, Patient version) was followed to establish the psychiatric diagnoses. Socio-demographic data, level of social support, HIV-related data, and pattern of psychotropic substance use were collected. Results: Cases had lower level of social support, more depressive disorders (AOR 3.4, 95% CI 1.3-8.7, p=0.01) and psychotic disorders (AOR 7.2, 95% CI 1.2-41, p=0.03) but not anxiety disorders. Significant difference in the prevalence of psychiatric disorders was only evident for disorders with onset after HIV diagnosis. Methamphetamine dependence, weekly methamphetamine use for 2 years or more, using methamphetamine beyond chemsex, duration of HIV diagnosis were significant predictors for psychiatric disorders in the cases. Conclusion: Active psychotropic substance use in HIV-infected gay or bisexual men was associated with an overall 3-fold increase in Axis I psychiatric disorders. Coordinated efforts from HIV, psychiatric and substance use services are needed to prevent harms arising from chemsex and to identify those in need and facilitate treatment access.

Study protocol: Hypersexual and hyposexual behavior among adults diagnosed with alcohol- and substance use disorders-Associations between traumatic experiences and problematic sexual behavior.

Hypersexual and hyposexual behaviors are common concomitant of substance use disorders (SUD). On the one hand, the regular consumption of alcohol or illegal drugs can lead to hypersexual or hyposexual behavior due to its effects on the organism; on the other hand, the use of psychotropic substances is also used as a coping strategy concerning already existing sexual impairments. The aforementioned disorders show similarities in terms of their etiology, as traumatic experiences get special attention as potential risk factors for the development of addictions, hypersexual, and hyposexual behavior. The study aims to explore the association between SUD characteristics and hypersexual/hyposexual behavior, and a potential moderating effect of early traumatic life events by answering the following research questions: (1) Do people with SUD differ from a sample of people with other psychiatric disorders regarding hypersexual and hyposexual behavior? (2) What are the associations between the presence of sexual problems and different characteristics of the SUD (e.g., mono vs. polysubstance use, type of addictive substance, intensity of the disorder)? (3) What influence do traumatic experiences in childhood and adolescence have on the existence of sexual disorders among adults with a diagnosed SUD? The target group of this cross-sectional ex-post-facto study comprises adults diagnosed with an alcohol- and/or substance use disorder. Data will be collected with an online survey, which will be promoted via several support and networking services for people diagnosed with SUD. Two control groups will be surveyed, one consisting of people with other psychiatric disorders than SUD and traumatic experiences, and one healthy group. Relations between the dependent variables (hypersexual and hyposexual behavior) and independent variables (sociodemographic information, medical and psychiatric status, intensity of the prevalent SUD, traumatic experiences, and symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder) will be initially calculated via correlations and linear regression. Risk factors will be identified via multivariate regression. Gaining relevant knowledge promises new perspectives for prevention, diagnosis, case conception, and therapy of SUDs as well as problematic sexual behaviors. The results can provide more information about the importance of psychosexual impairments regarding the development and maintenance of SUDs.

Neigiamų socialinių reiškinių prevencija ikimokyklinio ugdymo mokyklose

Nowadays, children are exposed to negative social phenomena, such as alcoholism, drug addiction, bullying, and violence at an early age. Pre-primary and preschool children should understand what it is like to grow up in a healthy and safe environment avoid using dangerous substances and risky behaviour. However, it is evident that the analysis of preventive preschool education in our country has not yet attracted much attention. The article aims to assess the prevention of negative social factors in preschool education institutions. The main research method is a questionnaire survey. Based on the results of the survey on preschool pedagogues’ opinions, it has been found that in the nurseries-kindergartens of the city of Panevėžys, the development of children’s resistance to negative social factors receives an adequate amount of recognition. Educators apply preventive programmes recommended by the Ministry of Education, Science and Sport in their daily work. The prevention of the use of alcohol, tobacco and other psychotropic substances and bullying is integrated into pre-primary and preschool education programmes. It is reflected in the content of education and the development of competencies. Preventive activities in preschool education institutions primarily aim at children’s emotional education. Children learn to know and manage their emotions, recognise negative social phenomena and situations, react appropriately, overcome social and emotional difficulties, resist negative external influences, and be responsible for personal and other persons’ behaviour. In nurseries-kindergartens, various forms and methods of preventive activities are used: games, artistic, creative activities, and various information tools. Thematic preventive events are organised for parents and the institution community, joint events for children and parents, and often psychologists are invited to participate in these meetings. The main challenges faced by preschool education institutions in carrying out preventive education are poor coordination of activities, lack of consistency, and continuity, low involvement of the members of the institution’s community, especially parents, and lack of funds. It should also be noted that pedagogues lack specific knowledge, information, and experience in preventive work.

THE ROLE OF GENERAL FACTORS IN THE PATHOGENESIS OF ORAL CANDIDIASIS

Oral candidiasis can be influenced by underlying systemic conditions and may indicate undiagnosed immunosuppression. On the other hand candidiasis can impact overall health by limiting nutritional intake and leading to severe complications, particularly in immunocompromised patients. This article presents the general predisposing factors that can contribute to the development of oral candidiasis. These factors encompass pregnancy, immune immaturity in newborns, advanced age, nutritional elements such as iron and folate deficiency, endocrine disorders like diabetes, malignancies, and hematologic disorders, renal conditions, immunosuppression, congenital ailments, and the use of psychotropic substances. The significance of monitoring and appropriately treating oral candidiasis within an interdisciplinary approach is underscored. Prevention and efficient management of these infections are crucial for patients with systemic conditions, aiding in the avoidance of complications and recurrences.

A Qualitative Assessment among Personnel Working in Community-Led Development Program Settings Regarding Sexualized Substance Use.

Sexualized substance use (SSU) is the practice of psychotropic substance use before or during sex to increase sexual pleasure. The growing use of SSU has a strong association with sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Community health mobilizers (CHMs) are agents who assist in decreasing the global burden of disease in the communities they serve. They work as unit managers, counselors, or field workers. The managers and counselors have a minimum of a bachelor's degree, and field workers have a minimum of a higher secondary education. This study aimed to qualitatively assess the knowledge gaps regarding SSU among CHMs. In-depth interviews (IDIs) were conducted in New Delhi, India with nineteen CHMs. Majority of the CHMs were men (n = 9, 47%) followed by transgender (TG) persons (TG females n = 5, 26.3%; TG males n = 1, 5.2%), and women (n = 4, 21.1%). Knowledge gaps were identified among the CHMs regarding different types of sexualized substances, drug procurement, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection prevention, and complex health issues associated with SSU. It suggested the need for periodic workshops and training for upgradation of existing knowledge and practices among the CHMs. This formative research may help social scientists to develop protocols for conducting multi-centric, community-based studies across the country for further validation and exploration.