RESUMO
The illegal drug market is constantly evolving, with new drugs being created and existing ones being modified. Adulterants are often added to the mix, and the primary substance may be secretly replaced by a new one. Once-known tablets can now be vastly different from what they are sold as, all due to the pursuit of profit and evasion of current drug regulations. These alterations in drug composition pose a threat to society, as their effects are still not well understood. Therefore, it is crucial for police intelligence and public health development to obtain the chemical profiles of illicit drugs. This study presents the chemical fingerprinting of ecstasy tablets seized in the state of Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) between 2012 and 2021. The tablet samples were weighed, extracted, diluted with methanol, and acidified before analysis using gas chromatography high-resolution mass spectrometry and attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The major constituents found were MDMA and clobenzorex, with fewer occurrences of MDA, MDEA, and 2C-B. The results also indicate that the occurrence of mega-events in the study location impacted the chemical fingerprints of ecstasy. A total of 27 combinations of cutting agents, including caffeine, ephedrine, and anesthetics, were identified. Samples composed of clobenzorex were observed throughout the evaluated period in areas near highways, suggesting that this product is mainly used by truck drivers. These findings can help police intelligence units anticipate the behavior of the illicit market during major events, identify traffic routes, and support public health initiatives.
Assuntos
Cromatografia Gasosa-Espectrometria de Massas , Alucinógenos , Drogas Ilícitas , N-Metil-3,4-Metilenodioxianfetamina , Brasil , N-Metil-3,4-Metilenodioxianfetamina/análise , Humanos , Drogas Ilícitas/química , Drogas Ilícitas/análise , Alucinógenos/análise , Alucinógenos/química , Espectroscopia de Infravermelho com Transformada de Fourier , Contaminação de Medicamentos , Tráfico de DrogasRESUMO
Traveling with the intention of encountering art or seeking purification of the spirit involves retribution of intangible nature and therefore can be expected to be a positive experience; nevertheless, among susceptible travelers, there is also a possibility of experiencing pathological conditions. Although it is colloquially known that beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder, it is necessary to mention that the appreciation of beauty, immensity, or mysticism contained in masterpieces is not perceived only through the eyes but through other sense organs as well. Additionally, this is understood within a cultural framework and through previous knowledge. The reaction triggers a series of somatosensory responses of diverse nature, with a wide range of responses that together constitute a pathological phenomenon that can be defined as syndromic by eliciting signs and symptoms of a physical, physiological, and psychotic nature. Both Stendhal and Jerusalem syndromes are travelers' syndromes that may occur in response to objectively aesthetic elements saturated with meaning linked to the cultural heritage of contemporary humanity. While Stendhal syndrome evokes physical and psychoemotional symptoms from the contemplation of art, Jerusalem syndrome goes beyond perception, adding delusions of being a religious or prophetic protagonist pursuing individual or collective salvation.
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A comprehensive data set of ecstasy samples containing MDMA (N-methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine) and MDA (3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine) seized by the Brazilian Federal Police was characterized using spectral data obtained by a compact, low-cost, near-infrared Fourier-transform based spectrophotometer. Qualitative and quantitative characterization was accomplished using soft independent modeling of class analogy (SIMCA), linear discriminant analysis (LDA) classification, discriminating partial least square (PLS-DA), and regression models based on partial least square (PLS). By applying chemometric analysis, a protocol can be proposed for the in-field screening of seized ecstasy samples. The validation led to an efficiency superior to 96 % for ecstasy classification and estimating total actives, MDMA, and MDA content in the samples with a root mean square error of validation of 4.4, 4.2, and 2.7 % (m/m), respectively. The feasibility and drawbacks of the NIR technology applied to ecstasy characterization and the compromise between false positives and false negatives rate achieved by the classification models are discussed and a new approach to improve the classification robustness was proposed considering the forensic context.
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The present work describes the development of a headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) followed by gas chromatography - mass spectrometry (GC-MS) method for the qualitative analysis of compounds in seized ecstasy tablets that can be easily implemented in regular laboratories. HS-SPME with a DVB/CAR/PDMS 50/30 µm fiber was used to extract the ecstasy pills' components, including major and minor ones, in a single extraction/chromatographic run. For HS-SPME, the incubation time (0 min to 30 min), the extraction time (10 min to 40 min) and temperature (40 °C to 80 ºC), the buffer volume (3 mL to 8 mL), the buffer pH (6 to 9) and the NaCl concentration (0 mol/L to 6 mol/L) were evaluated using fractional factorial design. Different split ratios and detector voltages were also evaluated. The optimal compromise between sensitivity and peak resolution was found to be incubation and extraction at 65 ºC for 10 min and 25 min, respectively, 3 mL of pH 9 buffer containing 3 mol/L NaCl, using 40.0 mg of the powdered samples in a 15-mL amber glass vial, and an injection with a split ratio of 1:10 at 260 ºC for 10 min. Under optimal conditions, 44 samples from different seizures were analyzed. Seventy-five compounds were tentatively identified by the proposed method, including active substances, medicines, caffeine, safrole derivatives, synthesis intermediates and solvent residues. The number of tentatively identified compounds per sample varied from 8 to 24, with a mean of 15. Important findings in ecstasy samples, such as norcinamolaurin, α-methyl-1,3-benzodioxole-5-propanamide, α-methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyphenylpropionitrile, acetylsalicylic acid, piperonylonitrile, methyl isobutyl ketone, mesitylene, and 4-[3-(dimethylamino)propyl]- 2,6-dimethylphenol, identified with a frequency higher than 10%, are not found in the literature so far. The method precision, based on relative standard deviation of peak areas, ranged from 5% to 15%, depending on the compound. The method was shown to be simple, relatively fast, precise and a powerful tool for the identification of major and minor components in ecstasy tablets in a single analytical cycle, being useful for screening or quantitative purposes, if authentic standards are available.
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Se presentan a continuación los resultados de un estudio exploratorio y descriptivo centrado en el análisis de los sentidos y vivencias asociados a experiencias de consumo de MDMA (3,4-metilendioximetanfetamina, Éxtasis) en usuarios jóvenes de esta sustancia que habitaban la ciudad de Montevideo en el período 2017-2019. Se desarrolló un muestreo no probabilístico en cadena que permitió la realización de 13 entrevistas a personas con edades comprendidas entre los 20 y 32 años. Los resultados de este trabajo confirman las motivaciones de consumo ya identificadas en otros estudios tales como la búsqueda de un estado de euforia y desinhibición así como de descarga energética y felicidad compartida. Sin embargo también se observó un particular interés en la posibilidad de comunicación sincera al igual que una marcada confianza en lograr experiencias poco riesgosas que propicien efectos duraderos en los vínculos generados por el consumo compartido. Estos indicios pueden ser de interés para el diseño de estrategias clínicas que incluyan a esta sustancia como fármaco coadyuvante de la experiencia terapéutica.
Below are presented the results of an exploratory and descriptive study focused on analyzing the senses and experiences associated with MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, Ecstasy) consumption experiences in young users of this substance living in the city of Montevideo in the period 2017-2019. A non-probabilistic chain sampling was developed that allowed for the realization of 13 interviews with people between the ages of 20 and 32. The results of this work confirm the consumption motivations already identified in other studies, such as the search for a state of euphoria and disinhibition, as well as energetic discharge and shared happiness. However, a particular interest was also observed in the possibility of sincere communication, as well as a marked confidence in achieving low-risk experiences that foster lasting effects on the relationships generated by shared consumption. These findings may be of interest for the design of clinical strategies that include this substance as an adjunct drug for therapeutic experiences.
A seguir estão apresentados os resultados de um estudo exploratório e descritivo centrado na análise dos sentidos e experiências associados ao consumo de MDMA (3,4-metilenodioximetanfetamina, Ecstasy) em usuários jovens desta substância que residiam na cidade de Montevideo no período de 2017 a 2019. Foi realizado um amostragem não probabilística em cadeia que permitiu a realização de 13 entrevistas com pessoas entre 20 e 32 anos de idade. Os resultados deste trabalho confirmam as motivações de consumo já identificadas em outros estudos, tais como a busca por um estado de euforia e desinibição, bem como a descarga energética e a felicidade compartilhada. No entanto, também foi observado um interesse particular na possibilidade de comunicação sincera, bem como uma confiança marcante em alcançar experiências de baixo risco que propiciem efeitos duradouros nos vínculos gerados pelo consumo compartilhado. Esses indícios podem ser de interesse para o desenvolvimento de estratégias clínicas que incluam esta substância como um fármaco coadjuvante da experiência terapêutica.
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Despite the recent promising results of MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine) as a psychotherapeutic agent and its history of misuse, little is known about its molecular mode of action. MDMA enhances monoaminergic neurotransmission in the brain and its valuable psychoactive effects are associated to a dual action on the 5-HT transporter (SERT). This drug inhibits the reuptake of 5-HT (serotonin) and reverses its flow, acting as a substrate for the SERT, which possesses a central binding site (S1) for antidepressants as well as an allosteric (S2) one. Previously, we characterized the spatial binding requirements for MDMA at S1. Here, we propose a structure-based mechanistic model of MDMA occupation and translocation across both binding sites, applying ensemble binding space analyses, electrostatic complementarity, and Monte Carlo energy perturbation theory. Computed results were correlated with experimental data (r = 0.93 and 0.86 for S1 and S2, respectively). Simulations on all hSERT available structures with Gibbs free energy estimations (ΔG) revealed a favourable and pervasive dual binding mode for MDMA at S2, i.e., adopting either a 5-HT or an escitalopram-like orientation. Intermediate ligand conformations were identified within the allosteric site and between the two sites, outlining an internalization pathway for MDMA. Among the strongest and more frequent interactions were salt bridges with Glu494 and Asp328, a H-bond with Thr497, a π-π with Phe556, and a cation-π with Arg104. Similitudes and differences with the allosteric binding of 5-HT and antidepressants suggest that MDMA may have a distinctive chemotype. Thus, our models may provide a framework for future virtual screening studies and pharmaceutical design and to develop hSERT allosteric compounds with a unique psychoactive MDMA-like profile.
Assuntos
N-Metil-3,4-Metilenodioxianfetamina , Proteínas da Membrana Plasmática de Transporte de Serotonina , Antidepressivos/química , Citalopram/química , Humanos , Método de Monte Carlo , N-Metil-3,4-Metilenodioxianfetamina/farmacologia , Serotonina/metabolismo , Proteínas da Membrana Plasmática de Transporte de Serotonina/química , Inibidores Seletivos de Recaptação de Serotonina/químicaRESUMO
Abstract Evaluating the effects of ecstasy on CYP2E1 activity is of great concern, mainly due to growing trends in abuse and co-administration of MDMA with ethanol and the dominant role of this isoenzyme on ethanol metabolism. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of MDMA on CYP2E1 activity. A total of 24 male rats were selected and divided into three groups. The first and second groups consisted of 12 rats and were employed to optimize the perfusion method, and the third group was employed for studying the alteration of CYP2E1 activity after liver exposure to MDMA (300 and 600 ng/ml). The amount of chlorzoxazone and 6-hydroxy chlorzoxazone in a sample obtained from liver perfusion before and after exposure to a buffer containing MDMA was determined by HPLC-FL. The enzymatic activity of rat CYP2E1 decreased after liver perfusion with a buffer containing 600 ng/ml of MDMA. However, no significant changes were observed in chlorzoxazone and 6-hydroxy chlorzoxazone concentration in perfusate before and after liver perfusion with a buffer containing 300 ng/ml of MDMA. Our findings suggest that the activity of CYP2E1 in rats might decrease only after administration of MDMA at a lethal dose. However, further animal and human studies are needed to confirm our assumption.
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OBJETIVO: Medir a prevalência do uso na vida, no último ano e no último mês de duas club drugs o ecstasy e o LSD , bem como as características associadas ao uso dessas substâncias, no último mês, entre estudantes de graduação de uma universidade no Sul do Brasil. MÉTODOS: Trata-se de um estudo transversal conduzido no ano de 2015 com amostragem aleatória sistemática por conglomerados. Participaram 1.423 estudantes de graduação. Foi utilizado um modelo de análise multivariável em três níveis hierárquicos por meio da regressão de Poisson com ajuste robusto da variância. RESULTADOS: As prevalências de uso na vida, no último ano e no último mês de club drugs foram de 12,7%, 7,8% e 3,8%, respectivamente. Indivíduos do sexo masculino, com orientação sexual homossexual ou bissexual, mais jovens, que moravam com seus pares, solteiros, e que relataram uso no último mês de tabaco e maconha apresentaram maior probabilidade de ter feito uso no último mês de alguma club drug. Entretanto, a variável mais fortemente associada a esse desfecho foi ter algum amigo que já fez uso de alguma droga ilícita na vida (RP = 19,54). CONCLUSÕES: O ambiente universitário parece ser um terreno fértil para a difusão do uso de club drugs. O fortalecimento de uma rede de apoio institucional da universidade, capaz de propor atividades de prevenção, bem como de identificar, acolher e encaminhar casos em que haja abuso e dependência dessas substâncias, pode ser uma estratégia importante para lidar com essa problemática.
OBJECTIVE: To measure the prevalence of lifetime, last-year, and last-month use of two club drugs ecstasy and LSD , as well as the characteristics associated with the last-month use of these substances among undergraduate students at a university in southern Brazil. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study conducted in 2015 with a clustered systematic sampling strategy. Overall, 1,423 undergraduate students participated. A three-level hierarchical multivariate analysis model was used through Poisson regression with robust adjustment of variance. RESULTS: Prevalence of lifetime, last-year, and lastmonth use of club drugs were 12.7%, 7.8% and 3.8%, respectively. Male participants, with homosexual or bisexual sexual orientation, younger, who lived with their peers, who were single, and who reported last-month use of tobacco and marijuana had higher probability of last-month use club drugs. However, the variable most strongly associated with this outcome was having a friend with lifetime use of illicit drugs (PR = 19.54). CONCLUSIONS: University environment seems to be a fertile ground for the spread of the use of club drugs. The strengthening of the university's institutional assistance network, capable of proposing prevention activities, as well as identifying, supporting and referring cases where there is abuse and dependence on these substances can be an important strategy to deal with this problem.
Assuntos
Humanos , Masculino , Feminino , Adulto Jovem , Estudantes/psicologia , Universidades , Drogas Ilícitas/toxicidade , Transtornos Relacionados ao Uso de Substâncias/epidemiologia , Influência dos Pares , Drogas Ilícitas/efeitos adversos , Prevalência , Estudos Transversais , Análise Multivariada , Inquéritos e Questionários/normas , Comportamento de Procura de DrogaRESUMO
Ecstasy is the name given to a large group of substances known as "club drugs" traded in the form of tablets, powder and liquid that present a varied composition, including mainly 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and analogous substances, in addition to the growing presence of new psychoactive substances. Based on this, clandestinely produced tablets ("ecstasy tablets") seized by police in Santa Catarina in the period from 2011 to 2017 were analyzed. During the study period, 3472 seizures occurred, which resulted in total 498,443 tablets seized. Seventy nine substances were identified. In the year 2011, about 90% of the tablets contained MDMA. This number decreased to 66.6% in 2017. On the other hand, there was an increase in the number of tablets that mainly contained synthetic cathinones, as well as tryptamine and piperazine derivatives. Police seizures in the metropolitan region of Florianópolis and on the coast prevailed over the rest of the state.
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Several new psychoactive substances (NPS) have reached the illegal drug market in recent years, and ecstasy-like tablets are one of the forms affected by this change. Cathinones and tryptamines have increasingly been found in ecstasy-like seized samples as well as other amphetamine type stimulants. A presumptive method for identifying different drugs in seized ecstasy tablets (n=92) using ATR-FTIR (attenuated total reflectance - Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) and PLS-DA (partial least squares discriminant analysis) was developed. A hierarchical strategy of sequential modeling was performed with PLS-DA. The main model discriminated four classes: 5-MeO-MIPT, methylenedioxyamphetamines (MDMA and MDA), methamphetamine, and cathinones. Two submodels were built to identify drugs present in MDs and cathinones classes. Models were validated through the estimate of figures of merit. The average reliability rate (RLR) of the main model was 96.8% and accordance (ACC) was 100%. For the submodels, RLR and ACC were 100%. The reliability of the models was corroborated through their spectral interpretation. Thus, spectral assignments were performed by associating informative vectors of each specific modeled class to the respective drugs. The developed method is simple, fast, and can be applied to the forensic laboratory routine, leading to objective results reports useful for forensic scientists and law enforcement.
Assuntos
Drogas Desenhadas/química , Drogas Ilícitas/química , Psicotrópicos/isolamento & purificação , Análise Discriminante , Toxicologia Forense/métodos , Humanos , Análise dos Mínimos Quadrados , Reprodutibilidade dos Testes , Espectroscopia de Infravermelho com Transformada de Fourier , ComprimidosRESUMO
Resumo Objetivo: Analisar dados clínicos, terapêuticos e parâmetros tomográficos dos pacientes portadores de ceratocone atendidos na Fundação Hilton Rocha. Métodos: É um estudo retrospectivo com amostra aleatória de 150 pacientes submetidos a tomografia de córnea e segmento anterior (Pentacam - Oculus, Wetzlar, Alemanha) na Fundação Hilton Rocha no ano de 2015. Os pacientes foram classificados como portadores ou suspeitos de ceratocone através dos parâmetros: paquimetria, elevação central anterior e posterior, Ambrosio Relational Thinnest (ART), valor de D e ceratometria. Após a seleção foi realizada análise dos prontuários, coletados dados clínicos e terapêuticos dos pacientes. Os dados foram colocados em tabela e analisados. Resultados: Dos pacientes classificados como portadores de ceratocone, 23% tinham 6 parâmetros alterados, e 10% foram classificados com apenas 1 parâmetro alterado. O índice ART foi o que mais se alterou (83%) nos pacientes portadores de ceratocone. Na análise dos dados clínicos e terapêuticos, 76,8% dos pacientes apresentaram acuidade visual melhor ou igual a 20/60, e 19% mencionaram apresentar atopia e, 90% dos pacientes utilizavam como tratamento apenas lentes corretoras (óculos e lente de contato). Conclusão: A utilização de índices tomográficos para o diagnóstico do ceratocone têm aumentado a sensibilidade e a especificidade na triagem de pacientes portadores desta ectasia, possibilitando o diagnóstico de maneira mais precoce e consequentemente maior sucesso terapêutico.
Abstract Objective: Analyze clinical data, therapy and tomographic parameters of patients attended at Fundação Hilton Rocha. Methods: This essay is a retrospective study based on a random sample of 150 patients submitted to cornea tomography and previous segment (Pentacam - Oculus, Wetzlar, Germany) at Fundação Hilton Rocha in the year 2015. The patients were classified as carriers or suspects of keratoconus through the following parameters: pachymetry, anterior and posterior central elevation, Ambrosio Relational Thinnest (ART), value of D and keratometry. After the selection an analysis of the medical records was done, followed by harvest of clinical and therapeutical data of the patients. The data was put on table and then analyzed. Results: From the numbers of the patients diagnosed with carriers of keratoconus, 23% had 6 altered parameters, and 10% were classified with only 1 altered parameter. The ART index was the one that suffered the largest change (83%) on the keratoconus carriers. After analysis of clinical and therapeutical data, 76.8% of patients showed better or more of 20/60 degree of visual acuity, and 19% mentioned signs of atopy, 90% of the patients were using only corrective lenses as treatment (glasses and contact lenses). Conclusion: The use of tomographic indexes for the diagnosis of keratoconus has been increasing the sensibility and specificity of the triage of carriers of this ecstasy, allowing an earlier and better diagnosis of this medical condition.
Assuntos
Humanos , Tomografia/métodos , Córnea/diagnóstico por imagem , Ceratocone/diagnóstico , Segmento Anterior do Olho/diagnóstico por imagem , Acuidade Visual , Estudos Retrospectivos , Sensibilidade e Especificidade , Lentes de Contato , Topografia da Córnea , Dilatação Patológica , Óculos , Paquimetria Corneana , Microscopia com Lâmpada de Fenda , Ceratocone/terapiaRESUMO
In this work, we carried out a theoretical investigation regarding amphetamine-type stimulants, which can cause central nervous system degeneration, interacting with human DNA. These include amphetamine, methamphetamine, 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (also known as ecstasy), as well as their main metabolites. The studies were performed through molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations, where molecular interactions of the receptor-ligand systems, along with their physical-chemical energies, were reported. Our results show that 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine and 3,4-Dihydroxymethamphetamine (ecstasy) present considerable reactivity with the receptor (DNA), suggesting that these molecules may cause damage due to human-DNA. These results were indicated by free Gibbs change of bind (ΔGbind) values referring to intermolecular interactions between the drugs and the minor grooves of DNA, which were predominant for all simulations. In addition, it was observed that 3,4-Dihydroxymethamphetamine (ΔGbind = -13.15 kcal/mol) presented greater spontaneity in establishing interactions with DNA in comparison to 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (ΔGbind = -8.61 kcal/mol). Thus, according with the calculations performed our results suggest that the 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine and 3,4-Dihydroxymethamphetamine have greater probability to provide damage to human DNA fragments.
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Anfetamina/efeitos adversos , DNA/química , Metanfetamina/efeitos adversos , N-Metil-3,4-Metilenodioxianfetamina/efeitos adversos , Anfetamina/química , Anfetamina/metabolismo , Estimulantes do Sistema Nervoso Central/efeitos adversos , Estimulantes do Sistema Nervoso Central/química , DNA/metabolismo , Humanos , Metanfetamina/química , Metanfetamina/metabolismo , Simulação de Acoplamento Molecular , N-Metil-3,4-Metilenodioxianfetamina/química , N-Metil-3,4-Metilenodioxianfetamina/metabolismoRESUMO
This article describes data on the motivations for selling ecstasy among young adults in the electronic dance music (EDM) club culture in Brazil. Individual interviews were conducted with 20 individuals recruited for their involvement in the EDM club scene. Eligible participants were aged 18-39 and reported ecstasy and/or LSD use one or more times in the past 90 days. Exclusion criteria included current treatment for drug/alcohol problems and cognitive impairment or clinically evident psychiatric disorder. Mean age was 22.92 (SD 2.77), 60% were male, 45% reported 12 or more years of education, 50% did not have a primary partner, 50% were living alone, and all had friends who also used ecstasy. Three main themes emerged: (1) "easy" transition from ecstasy user to seller; (2) desire to achieve popularity and fame; and (3) need to sell ecstasy to maintain the high cost of EDM club scene participation. This is one of the first studies of ecstasy sellers in Brazil. The results demonstrate the ease with which the participants transition from ecstasy user to seller. Given the potential health and social dangers associated with ecstasy use, public health campaigns to prevent ecstasy use and policy initiatives to limit the ecstasy supply are warranted.
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Comportamento do Adolescente , Transtornos Relacionados ao Uso de Anfetaminas/psicologia , Comércio , Dança , Tráfico de Drogas/psicologia , Usuários de Drogas/psicologia , Alucinógenos/provisão & distribuição , Motivação , Música , N-Metil-3,4-Metilenodioxianfetamina/provisão & distribuição , Adolescente , Adulto , Transtornos Relacionados ao Uso de Anfetaminas/economia , Brasil , Comércio/economia , Feminino , Alucinógenos/economia , Humanos , Entrevistas como Assunto , Estilo de Vida , Masculino , N-Metil-3,4-Metilenodioxianfetamina/economia , Pesquisa Qualitativa , Fatores Socioeconômicos , Adulto JovemRESUMO
The variations found in the elemental composition in ecstasy samples result in spectral profiles with useful information for data analysis, and cluster analysis of these profiles can help uncover different categories of the drug. We provide a cluster analysis of ecstasy tablets based on their elemental composition. Twenty-five elements were determined by ICP-MS in tablets apprehended by Sao Paulo's State Police, Brazil. We employ the K-means clustering algorithm along with C4.5 decision tree to help us interpret the clustering results. We found a better number of two clusters within the data, which can refer to the approximated number of sources of the drug which supply the cities of seizures. The C4.5 model was capable of differentiating the ecstasy samples from the two clusters with high prediction accuracy using the leave-one-out cross-validation. The model used only Nd, Ni, and Pb concentration values in the classification of the samples.
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Drogas Ilícitas/química , N-Metil-3,4-Metilenodioxianfetamina/química , Algoritmos , Brasil , Análise por Conglomerados , Árvores de Decisões , Contaminação de Medicamentos , Tráfico de Drogas , Humanos , Espectrometria de Massas/métodos , ComprimidosRESUMO
El Metilendioximetanfetamina (MDMA) o éxtasis, es una droga sintética que fue accidentalmente aislada en 1914, sin encontrarse en ella una utilidad médica. La OMS la considera una droga psicotrópica y es ilegal en diversos países, incluyendo a Chile. De acuerdo al Estudio Global de Drogas Sintéticas, el consumo de éxtasis ha aumentado considerablemente en Latinoamérica entre el 2008 y 2014, estudios en Chile la muestran con una "nueva droga" cuyo consumo está aumentando en personas de 1925 años de edad. El concepto de bruxismo en odontología ha cambiado con el paso del tiempo. Actualmente se reconoce su naturaleza multifactorial, en dónde los factores centrales (patofisiología) juegan un rol principal. Diversos autores han reportado bruxismo como un efecto secundario al consumo recreacional de éxtasis, con frecuencias que van entre el 50 a 89%. Esto puede explicarse debido al efecto de desbalance a nivel de las vías serotoninérgicas y/o domaminérgicas que produce el MDMA, tal como parece ocurrir en el bruxismo. Debido a que la Oficina de las Naciones Unidas contra la Droga y el Delito (UNODOC) advierte del aumento progresivo y significativo del consumo de éxtasis en la población joven chilena, es importante conocer las implicancias orales con la finalidad de lograr un mejor manejo odontológico, siendo necesarios mayores estudios para determinar la real asociación entre el consumo de éxtasis recreacional y bruxismo secundario.
Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) or Ecstasy is a synthetic drug accidentally isolated in 1914, finding in it no specific medical use. The WHO considers it as a psychotropic drug and it is illegal in several countries, including Chile. According to the Global Synthetic Drugs Assessment, the use of ecstasy has increased steadily in Latin-America between the years 2008 and 2012, and studies in Chile show ecstasy as a "new drug", with an increased consumption in the 19-25 year-old age group. The concept of bruxism in dentistry has changed over time, moving to a multifactorial etiology where central factors, such as pathophysiology have a major role. Several authors report bruxism as a side effect of ecstasy consumption, at a rate of between 50 and 89%. This can be explained by the fact that MDMA acts centrally inducing imbalance at the level of serotonergic and/or dopaminergic pathways, as it occurs in bruxism. Since the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime warns of a significant and progressive increase in the consumption of recreational ecstasy in young Chilean adult population, it is important to know there are oral implications in order to have better dental management, and further studies are necessary in order to determine an actual association between ecstasy consumption and secondary bruxism.
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Humanos , Adulto Jovem , Bruxismo/induzido quimicamente , N-Metil-3,4-Metilenodioxianfetamina/efeitos adversos , Recreação , Transtornos Relacionados ao Uso de Anfetaminas/epidemiologiaRESUMO
The content of ecstasy tablets has been changing over the years, and nowadays 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is not always present in the tablets. The aim of this study was to investigate the chemical composition in the seized tablets labeled as ecstasy. We analyzed samples from 150 different seizures made by Sao Paulo's State Police by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. MDMA was present in 44.7% of the analyzed samples, and another twenty different active substances were identified in these tablets, such as caffeine, 2C-B, piperazines, amphetamines, phencyclidine, and others. Methamphetamine was present in 22% of these samples. The results demonstrate a huge shift in the pattern of trafficking of synthetic drugs, where MDMA has been replaced in tablets mostly by illicit psychoactive substances, in a clear attempt to bypass the law. The great variability in the tablets composition may lead to an increased risk of drug poisoning.
Assuntos
Contaminação de Medicamentos , Alucinógenos/química , Drogas Ilícitas/química , N-Metil-3,4-Metilenodioxianfetamina/química , Brasil , Cromatografia Gasosa-Espectrometria de Massas , Humanos , Legislação de MedicamentosRESUMO
This study aimed to analyze whether ecstasy consumption is associated with the socioeconomic status in the Municipality of São Paulo, Brazil, from 2000 to 2007. We used an official, reliable and unbiased source supplied by the Department of Narcotics of the State of São Paulo (Denarc) database and the Human Development Index of the districts (HDId) where the seizures occurred. A Spearman correlation test between the average number of ecstasy seizures per million of inhabitants with the HDId was used. There were 190 seizures (totaling 47,934 tablets) spread out in 53 of the 96 districts and 51.6% were concentrated in only 8 districts. The higher rates of ecstasy seizures were directly associated with districts with high HDId that confirmed the association of ecstasy consumption with the socioeconomic status. Itaim-Bibi, Jardim Paulista and Moema were the top three districts with the highest HDId. In these districts, the number of tablets per seizure ranged from as few units to thousands, revealing that not only consumption but also traffic coexist at the same place. Districts with many nightclubs can also influence the incidence of seizures. This knowledge can be useful to help the police from other Brazilian cities to combat ecstasy trafficking.
Este estudo teve como objetivo analisar se o consumo de ecstasy está associado com o nível socioeconômico no Município de São Paulo, Brasil, de 2000 a 2007. Nós usamos uma fonte oficial, confiável e imparcial fornecida pelo banco de dados do Departamento de Narcóticos do Estado de São Paulo (Denarc) e o Índice de Desenvolvimento Humano dos distritos (IDHd), onde as apreensões ocorreram. O teste de correlação de Spearman entre o número médio de apreensões de ecstasy por milhão de habitantes e o IDHd foi utilizado. Houve 190 apreensões (totalizando 47.934 comprimidos) distribuídas em 53 dos 96 distritos e 51,6% concentraram-se em apenas 8 distritos. As maiores taxas de apreensão de ecstasy foram diretamente associadas com distritos com alto IDHd, o que confirmou a associação do consumo de ecstasy com o nível socioeconômico. Itaim Bibi, Jardim Paulista e Moema, distritos como os maiores IDHd, foram os três primeiros colocados. Nesses distritos, o número de comprimidos por apreensão variou de poucas unidades a milhares, revelando que não somente o consumo como também o tráfico coexiste no mesmo local. Distritos com muitas casas noturnas também podem influenciar a incidência de apreensão. Esse conhecimento pode ser útil no auxílio à polícia de outras cidades brasileiras no combate ao tráfico de ecstasy.
Assuntos
N-Metil-3,4-Metilenodioxianfetamina/análise , Indexação e Redação de Resumos/classificação , Comportamento de Procura de Droga , Convulsões , Fatores SocioeconômicosRESUMO
Antecedentes: Las drogas de diseño del tipo anfetamina, o de benzil y fenil piperazina, o del tipo pirrolidinfenona, producen sentimientos de euforia, energía y deseos de socializar, por eso son conocidas como rave drugs o drogas de club. A pesar de que los consumidores aducen que son drogas seguras, estudios experimentales en biomodelos y de tipo epidemiológico en humanos, indican riesgos potenciales para quien las usa. Materiales y Métodos: El presente artículo de revisión analiza, cualitativamente, la literatura científica disponible en las bases de datos Science Direct y PUBMED, relacionada con el metabolismo de estas drogas recreacionales y sus implicaciones en salud. Resultados: Se obtuvo información pertinente relacionada con los objetivos propuestos, por lo cual puede clasificarse en 2 secciones a saber: metabolismo de las drogas de diseño e implicaciones clínicas de su consumo. Conclusión: Las vías metabólicas que involucran isoenzimas P450 son responsables de la degradación hepática de las drogas de diseño. Existen riesgos potenciales para quien las consume, entre los que se encuentran el síndrome de serotonina, hepatotoxicidad, neurotoxicidad y psicopatología.
Background: Designer drugs of the amphetamine, benzyl, phenyl piperazine, or pyrrolidinophenone type produce feelings of euphoria and energy and a desire to socialize, reason why they are known as "rave drugs" or "club drugs". Although consumers adduce that these are safe drugs, experimental studies using bio models and epidemiological studies in humans, indicate potential risks for users. Materials and Methods: The review article analyses quantitatively scientific literature from Science Direct and PUBMED data bases related to metabolism of these drugs and their implications in health. Results: Relevant information related to the objectives proposed in the present review was found and it can be classified in 2 sections as follows: metabolism of designer drugs and clinical implications of consumption of designer drugs. Conclusion: The metabolic pathways which involve P450 isoenzymes are responsible for hepatic degradation of designer drugs. There are potential risks for consumers such as serotonin syndrome, hepatotoxicity, neurotoxicity, and psychopathology.
RESUMO
Trabalhar a partir do ensino de Lacan com os possíveis desdobramentos do gozo feminino, diante das vicissitudes da vida amorosa, é o objetivo deste artigo. Com esta proposta procurou-se situar o arcabouço teórico do qual se favoreceu Lacan para articular como este modo de gozo feminino, quando vivenciado junto às contingências do encontro amoroso, provoca efeitos completamente opostos, que podem levar a mulher tanto à devastação quanto à experiência de um êxtase sexual.(AU)
The objective of this text is to work upon the Lacans teaching about the possible developments of feminine enjoyment in front of vicissitudes of love life. With this proposal, the author tries to trace the theoretical framework from which Lacan uttered how this type of feminine enjoyment, when it is experienced within the contingencies of the love encounter, may cause completely opposite results either conducting the woman to a devastating experience or to sexual ecstasy.(AU)
RESUMO
Anxiolytic and anxiogenic-like behavioral outcomes have been reported for methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA or ecstasy) in rodents. In the present experiment, we attempted to identify behavioral, hormonal and neurochemical outcomes of MDMA treatment to clarify its effects on anxiety-related responses in 2-month-old Balb/c male mice (25-35 g; N = 7-10 mice/group). The behavioral tests used were open field, elevated plus maze, hole board, and defensive behavior against predator odor. Moreover, we also determined striatal dopamine and dopamine turnover, and serum corticosterone levels. MDMA was injected ip at 0.2, 1.0, 5.0, 8.0, 10, or 20 mg/kg. MDMA at 10 mg/kg induced the following significant (P < 0.05) effects: a) a dose-dependent increase in the distance traveled and in the time spent moving in the open field; b) decreased exploratory activity in the hole board as measured by number of head dips and time spent in head dipping; c) increased number of open arm entries and increased time spent in open arm exploration in the elevated plus maze; d) increased time spent away from an aversive stimulus and decreased number of risk assessments in an aversive odor chamber; e) increased serum corticosterone levels, and f) increased striatal dopamine level and turnover. Taken together, these data suggest an anxiogenic-like effect of acute MDMA treatment, despite the fact that behavioral anxiety expression was impaired in some of the behavioral tests used as a consequence of the motor stimulating effects of MDMA.