ORCID Profile
0000-0003-2961-9125
Current Organisation
University of Tasmania
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Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2021
DOI: 10.1016/J.PHYSBEH.2021.113602
Abstract: Neurobiological models indicate that acute stress facilitates bottom-up stimulus processing while impairing top-down executive control. To test this hypothesis, the present study investigated the effects of acute stress on behavioural and electrophysiological measures of human attentional networks, and behavioural measures of working memory. Forty-five female participants (M
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.JBTEP.2016.06.002
Abstract: Computer-aided vicarious exposure (CAVE) for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is an intervention in which participants learn and rehearse exposure with response prevention (ERP) by directing a character around a virtual world. This study aimed to pilot an online CAVE program for OCD in a community s le with high OCD symptomatology. Participants (n = 78) were allocated to an intervention group (three 45-min weekly CAVE sessions) or to a waitlist control group. The treatment group were asked to complete three 45-min sessions over a four week period. Those who completed at least one CAVE session showed greater improvement on measures of OCD symptomatology at one-month post-treatment (d = 0.49-0.81) compared to waitlist (d = 0.01-0.1). Older age, past treatment and higher symptom severity were associated with non-adherence. These findings should be considered preliminary due to s le size limitations and an absence of an active control group. However, the findings suggest that further development and evaluation of the program is warranted. Preliminary findings suggest that online CAVE programs have potential to bridge treatment gaps among those reluctant to attend treatment or engage with in vivo exposure exercises. These programs may also have potential applications as an adjunct to face-to-face or online cognitive behavioural therapy.
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 08-12-2017
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-2019
DOI: 10.1111/EJN.14371
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 17-07-2009
DOI: 10.1007/S00221-009-1943-X
Abstract: The difficulty of a visual three stimulus and a bimanual coordination task was manipulated by varying discrimination difficulty (easy, hard) and coordination mode (in-phase, anti-phase) respectively. Electroencephalographic activity was recorded from 32 sites whilst participants (n = 16) completed four dual-task conditions in counterbalanced order. Longer reaction time and lower accuracy were found for the hard relative to the easy visual task and, for the hard visual task, accuracy was lower under anti-phase relative to in-phase conditions. Amplitude and latency of event-related potential components P3a and P3b were recorded and measured. There was a reduction in P3b litude and increase in P3a litude for the hard visual task overall and a further reduction in frontal P3b litude under the more demanding anti-phase condition. For the easy visual task, however, P3b and P3a litude were greater under the anti-phase relative to in-phase coordination condition at left hemisphere frontal sites. These findings suggest that the attentional cost of stabilising anti-phase bimanual coordination is largely associated with top-down automatic processes subserved by the frontal attentional network.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.DRUGPO.2016.12.021
Abstract: Examine the motivations for new psychoactive substance (NPS) use amongst a s le of regular psychostimulant users (RPU) in Australia, and determine whether motivations differ across substances. Data were obtained from 419 RPU interviewed for the 2014 Ecstasy and related Drugs Reporting System who reported lifetime NPS use. Based on the most recent NPS used, motivations for use were rated on an 11-point scale (0 'no influence'-10 'maximum influence'). For NPS overall, value for money was found to be the most highly endorsed motivation for use, scoring a median of five out of ten. However, there was substantial variation in motivations for use across substance types. Availability (i.e. no other drug was available to me at the time 6/10) was the most highly endorsed motivation for the use of synthetic cathinones, which was significantly higher than reported for DMT. Perceived legality and availability were the most highly endorsed motivations for synthetic cannabinoids (5/10) perceived legality scored higher for synthetic cannabinoids than for all the other NPS, whilst in regards to availability synthetic cannabinoids scored significantly higher than DMT only. Value for money was the most highly endorsed motivation for NBOMe (8/10) and 2C-family substances (5/10) in regards to NBOMe this scored significantly higher than all other NPS. Short effect duration was the most highly endorsed motivation for DMT (7/10), which was significantly higher than for all other NPS. Synthetic cathinones and cannabinoids appear to be largely motivated by 'opportunistic' reasons (i.e. availability, legality), while NBOMe, 2C-family substances and DMT appear to be motivated by particular desirable qualities of a substance (i.e. value for money, short effect duration). Providing a nuanced understanding of why in iduals use particular NPS improves our ability to understand the NPS phenomenon and to tailor harm reduction messages to the appropriate target groups.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 08-2014
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 07-2002
DOI: 10.1177/026988110201600408
Abstract: The sensitivity of several neurophysiological and cognitive tests to different levels of hypoxia was investigated. Cerebral hypoxia in healthy volunteers may be a disease model for dementia or other forms of brain dysfunction. Twelve healthy subjects were included in a randomized, single-blind, placebo-controlled, three-period cross-over trial. They received three air/N2 gas mixtures via mask breathing [aimed at peripheral oxygen saturation (SPO2) values of 97% (placebo), 90% and 80%, with normal end-tidal CO2]. Central nervous system effects were tested regularly for 130 min by saccadic and smooth pursuit eye movements, electro-encephalogram, visual analogue scales and cognitive tests. Treatments were well tolerated. Compared to SPO2 90%, SPO2 80% reduced saccadic peak velocity by 16.4 °/s [confidence interval (CI) –26.3, –6.4], increased occipital delta power by 14.3% (CI 3.6, 25.1), and significantly increased most cognitive reaction times. SPO2 80% also decreased correct responses for the binary choice task and serial word recognition [–1.3 (–2.2, –0.3) and –3.5 (–6.2, –0.8), respectively] compared to SPO2 90%. Cognitive performance was decreased by SPO2 80% and increased by SPO2 90% compared to placebo. Sensitive effect measurements can be identified for these interventions. The applicability as a model for cognitive impairment should be investigated further.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 07-2002
DOI: 10.1177/026988110201600409
Abstract: To assess the influence of lorazepam on memory and behavioural learning, a non-clinical s le of undergraduate psychology students (n= 24), received lorazepam (2.5 mg) or placebo orally. Pre-drug and post-drug neuropsychological assessment comprised the Rey auditory verbal learning test, verbal fluency test, digit span and word stem completion. Relative to placebo, lorazepam induced a marked deficit in delayed free-recall, perceptual priming, and written word fluency, with preservation of digit span. Behavioural learning was assessed on a computer-aided vicarious exposure treatment for obsessive–compulsive disorder, administered post-drug, and repeated 1 week later, drug free. Compared to placebo, lorazepam treated participants enacted 51% less exposure activity on the behavioural learning task post-drug. Whilst both groups enacted increased exposure at the drug-free session, exposure activity was 49% less in the lorazepam group, indicating a carryover effect of the impaired learning under drug 1 week before. There were no significant differences between lorazepam and placebo on indices of overall activity on the program. These results suggest lorazepam-induced impairment in the ability to learn behavioural strategies, possibly due to impaired acquisition of information into long-term episodic memory. These findings suggest caution in the co-prescribing of benzodiazepines in people undergoing behavioural therapies in clinical populations.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.NEUBIOREV.2018.07.006
Abstract: The endocannabinoid system is an increasingly recognised pharmacological target for treating stress and anxiety disorders, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Recent preclinical developments have implicated the endocannabinoid system in stress responses, emotional memories and fear extinction, all critical to PTSD aetiology. However, preclinical research in endocannabinoid biology has neglected the influential role of sex hormone differences on PTSD symptomology, which is particularly important given that PTSD is twice as common in women as in men. In this review, we compile and consider the evidence that the endocannabinoid system is influenced by ovarian hormones, with application to stress disorders such as PTSD. It is clear that therapeutic modulation of the endocannabinoid system needs to be approached with awareness of ovarian hormonal influences, and knowledge of these influences may enhance treatment outcomes for female PTSD populations.
Publisher: S. Karger AG
Date: 2009
DOI: 10.1159/000253550
Abstract: i Background/Aims: /i Although use of ‘ecstasy’ (drugs sold as containing 3,4-methylenedioxymeth hetamine) is prevalent, it is typically infrequent, and treatment presentations involving ecstasy as a principal problem drug are relatively rare. Human case reports and animal literature suggest dependence potential, although there may be some unique aspects to this syndrome for ecstasy in comparison to other substances. The Severity of Dependence Scale (SDS) was examined to determine whether this could usefully identify ‘dependent’ ecstasy consumers. i Methods: /i We conducted a cross-sectional survey of 1,658 frequent (at least monthly) ecstasy consumers across Australia, assessing drug use, associated harms and risk behaviours. Dependence was evaluated with the SDS, using a cut-off of ≥4 to identify potential ‘dependence’. i Results: /i One fifth of the participants were screened as potentially dependent. These in iduals used ecstasy more frequently, in greater amounts, engaged more extensively in risk behaviours and reported greater role interference than other participants. These findings were independent of meth hetamine use or dependence. The underlying structure of the ecstasy SDS was bifactorial. i Conclusions: /i The SDS has demonstrated construct validity as a screening tool to identify ecstasy users at elevated risk of experiencing adverse consequences, including features of dependence. The underlying structure of dependence symptoms differs for ecstasy compared to other drug classes, and some dependent consumers use the drug infrequently. The unique neurotoxic potential and entactogenic effects of ecstasy may require a distinct nosological classification for the experience of dependence associated with the drug.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 09-2011
Abstract: Background: The aim of this research was to evaluate an online exposure treatment for spider phobia ( www.feardrop.com ) and to investigate the effects of intermittent versus continuous exposure. Methods: Spider phobic participants ( N = 23) completed two 14-minute stages of laboratory-based online exposure. In the first of these stages exposure was either continuous or intermittent (alternating fearrelevant and -irrelevant images). One week later, participants commenced a sixstage home-based graded online exposure task, which was undertaken over 30 days. Subjective Units of Distress Scale (SUDS) ratings were taken throughout all exposure stages. Spider fear was assessed prior to treatment, and at 1-week and 1-month post treatment. Results: Habituation was observed across each stage for both the laboratory and home-based tasks and generalisation of habituation was found between stages. Habituation was not impaired in the alternating fear-relevant and -irrelevant image condition, though subjects experienced less summed anxiety. Adherence rates were low in home-based online exposure. However, participants who completed 30-days post-treatment assessment (n = 14) showed a significant reduction in spider fear as measured by the Fear of Spiders Questionnaire (FSQ). Conclusions: Online exposure produces habituation and generalisation of habituation to spider images as well as longer-term reductions in spider fear. Alternating fear-relevant and -irrelevant exposure is feasible in online exposure and may lead to habituation with less summed anxiety that has implications for tolerability and acceptability. Measures to increase adherence rates and hence dosage delivered are a key consideration for further online exposure research.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.DRUGPO.2016.11.004
Abstract: Over the past decade, monitoring systems have identified the rapid emergence of new psychoactive substances (NPS). While the use of many NPS is minimal and transitory, little is known about which products have potential for capturing the attention of significant proportions of the drug consuming market. The aim of this study was to explore self-reported experiences of three commonly used NPS classes within the Australian context (synthetic cathinones, hallucinogenic phenethylamines and hallucinogenic tryptamines) relative to traditional illicit drug counterparts. Frequent psychostimulant consumers interviewed for the Australian Ecstasy and related Drugs Reporting System (EDRS) (n=1208) provided subjective ratings of the pleasurable and negative (acute and longer-term) effects of substances used in the last six months on the last occasion of use, and the likelihood of future use. Stimulant-type NPS (e.g., mephedrone, methylone) were rated less favourably than ecstasy and cocaine in terms of pleasurable effects and likelihood of future use. DMT (a hallucinogenic tryptamine) showed a similar profile to LSD in terms of pleasurable effects and the likelihood of future use, but negative effects (acute and comedown) were rated lower. Hallucinogenic phenethylamines (e.g., 2C-B) showed a similar negative profile to LSD, but were rated as less pleasurable and less likely to be used again. The potential for expanded use of stimulant-type NPS may be lower compared to commonly used stimulants such as ecstasy and cocaine. In contrast, the potential of DMT may be higher relative to LSD given the comparative absence of negative effects.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.BANDL.2015.10.008
Abstract: To investigate facilitatory and inhibitory processes during selective attention among adults with good (n=17) and poor (n=14) phonological decoding skills, a go/nogo flanker task was completed while EEG was recorded. Participants responded to a middle target letter flanked by compatible or incompatible flankers. The target was surrounded by a small or large circular cue which was presented simultaneously or 500ms prior. Poor decoders showed a greater RT cost for incompatible stimuli preceded by large cues and less RT benefit for compatible stimuli. Poor decoders also showed reduced modulation of ERPs by cue-size at left hemisphere posterior sites (N1) and by flanker compatibility at right hemisphere posterior sites (N1) and frontal sites (N2), consistent with processing differences in fronto-parietal attention networks. These findings have potential implications for understanding the relationship between spatial attention and phonological decoding in dyslexia.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 20-06-2021
DOI: 10.1002/DA.23170
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.JBTEP.2014.12.003
Abstract: This research compared the effects of real versus hyper-real images on anxiety, disgust, and physiological arousal during internet-delivered exposure in high spider-fearfuls. Hyper-real images were digitally altered to highlight fearful aspects. A further aim was to examine self-reported and behavioural therapeutic outcomes and exposure-related predictors of these outcomes. Twenty-eight females were randomised to real (n = 14) or hyper-real (n = 14) treatment groups and nine participants were subsequently allocated to a wait-list control group. Treatment groups viewed an 8-stage exposure hierarchy of real or hyper-real spider images. Subjective anxiety and disgust ratings were taken during each stage (0, 60, 120, 180 s) with heart rate and skin conductance recorded throughout. Anxiety, disgust and physiological arousal habituated within each exposure stage, with no differential effect of real compared to hyper-real images. Both treatment groups but not controls demonstrated significant reductions in behavioural avoidance and self-reported phobic symptoms from pre-treatment to post-treatment with large effect sizes noted. The change in within-stage habituation of anxiety, disgust and heart rate, between the first and last stage, predicted improvement in behavioural avoidance at post-treatment. This suggests that generalisation of habituation to multiple images is an important predictor of improvement. While findings in relation to therapeutic outcome should be considered preliminary, clear relationships were found between exposure-related variables and outcome among those who undertook treatment. Findings provide evidence in support of the efficacy of online image-based exposure and have implications for informing further research into the underlying mechanisms of image-based exposure treatment.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.NEUBIOREV.2021.11.040
Abstract: The endocannabinoid system is known to be involved in mechanisms relevant to PTSD aetiology and maintenance, though this understanding is mostly based on animal models of the disorder. Here we review how human paradigms can successfully translate animal findings to human subjects, with the view that substantially increased insight into the effect of endocannabinoid signalling on stress responding, emotional and intrusive memories, and fear extinction can be gained using modern paradigms and methods for assessing the state of the endocannabinoid system in PTSD.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 06-05-2013
DOI: 10.1111/DAR.12049
Abstract: Novel psychoactive substances are increasingly available, both in traditional storefronts and via the Internet. While some use of such substances has been captured in Australian consumer surveys and wastewater analyses, there is little information about the products that are available to Australia via the Internet. Systematic monthly Internet monitoring for emerging psychoactive substances was conducted between July 2011 and July 2012. Webstores identified through searches were examined to determine if they sold stimulant or psychedelic emerging psychoactive substances to Australia. Internet search numbers for these products were examined over time using commercial tools. In 12 months, 43 unique webstores were identified selling to Australia, averaging two new webstores per month however, two-fifths had closed within six months. Over 200 unique chemically unspecified products sold by purported effect (e.g. 'charge') were identified over 12 months, averaging 10 new products per month. Almost half of these products had disappeared from the market within six months. Eighty-six unique chemically specified products (e.g. methylenedioxypyrovalerone) were identified over 12 months, averaging four new novel substances per month. Once released, these products typically remained available, with almost 90% still available for purchase over a 6-month period. Almost 40 000 searches for these products emanated from Australia per month. This market is fast paced as retailers strive to beat both regulatory processes and competitors. Ongoing attention to these markets, incorporating surveillance of both Internet and traditional storefronts, is crucial as several of the substances identified have demonstrated potential for health and neurological harm.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 02-06-2016
DOI: 10.1111/ADD.13421
Abstract: This study aimed to validate the presence of a khat use disorder syndrome using DSM-5 criteria and to examine its relationship with increased experience of harms. Cross-sectional, purposive s le of current khat-chewers, recruited from khat markets and cafes. Participants were recruited from the general community and from Adama Science and Technology University in Ethiopia. A total of 400 current khat consumers aged 16 and above were recruited between September 2014 and January 2015 MEASURES: Survey comprising current clinical symptoms (using a modified Alcohol Use Disorder and Associated Disabilities Interview Schedule-IV), and validated measures of health, psychological distress, quality of life and academic functioning. A third [35.5% 95% confidence interval (CI) = 31.0-40.3] of respondents reported daily khat use and a quarter (25.4% 95% CI = 21.4-30.0) using three times or more per week. Using DSM-5 criteria, 10.5% (95% CI = 7.9-13.9) were categorized as experiencing mild, 8.8% (95% CI = 6.4-12.0) moderate and 54.5% (95% CI = 49.6-59.3) severe khat use disorder. Confirmatory factor analysis demonstrated a good fit of symptoms to a single underlying construct, consistent with other substance use disorders. In iduals categorized as experiencing khat use disorder demonstrated significantly greater frequency [odds ratio (OR) = 45.29 95% CI = 10.97-19.01) and quantity of khat use (OR = 2.35 95% CI = 1.29-4.29). They also demonstrated increased financial problems associated with use, greater problems with academic functioning and higher rates of self-reported mental health problems, higher psychological distress and poorer quality of life. Treatment access was poor, with only one-third (32.9%) of in iduals with khat use disorder reporting life-time access, near-exclusively related to help-seeking from friends and relatives. The construct of a substance use disorder syndrome for khat using DSM-5 criteria appears valid and performs in a manner consistent with other substances of dependence. In iduals with khat use disorder experience substantial problems in association with khat use. Despite this, there are low levels of help-seeking for these problems.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2010
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2006
DOI: 10.1080/10826080500411528
Abstract: We examine alcohol use in conjunction with ecstasy use and risk-taking behaviors among regular ecstasy users in every capital city in Australia. Data on drug use and risks were collected in 2004 from a national s le of 852 regular ecstasy users (persons who had used ecstasy at least monthly in the preceding 6 months). Users were grouped according to their typical alcohol use when using ecstasy: no use, consumption of between one and five standard drinks, and consumption of more than five drinks ("binge" alcohol use). The s le was young, well educated, and mainly working or studying. Approximately two thirds (65%) of the regular ecstasy users reported drinking alcohol when taking ecstasy. Of these, 69% reported usually consuming more than five standard drinks. Those who did not drink alcohol were more disadvantaged, with greater levels of unemployment, less education, higher rates of drug user treatment, and prison history. They were also more likely than those who drank alcohol when using ecstasy to be drug injectors and to be hepatitis C positive. Excluding alcohol, drug use patterns were similar between groups, although the no alcohol group used cannabis and meth hetamine more frequently. Binge drinkers were more likely to report having had three or more sexual partners in the past 6 months and were less likely to report having safe sex with casual partners while under the influence of drugs. Despite some evidence that the no alcohol group were more entrenched drug users, those who typically drank alcohol when taking ecstasy were as likely to report risks and problems associated with their drug use. It appears that regular ecstasy users who binge drink are placing themselves at increased sexual risk when under the influence of drugs. Safe sex messages should address the sexual risk associated with substance use and should be tailored to reducing alcohol consumption, particularly targeting "heavy" alcohol users. The study's limitations are noted.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.JBTEP.2016.07.012
Abstract: The aim of the study was to examine habituation of subjective anxiety and electrophysiological correlates of cortical hyper-vigilance during exposure to spider images among high (n = 12) and low (n = 11) spider fear groups. Participants viewed a six-stage hierarchy of spider images. The images used at stage 1 and stage 6 were the same. Subjective anxiety was rated at four intervals during each three-minute exposure stage (0, 60, 120, and 180 s) and event-related potentials (ERPs) were averaged across these epochs (0-60, 60-120, 120-180). High spider fearfuls demonstrated greater habituation of self-reported anxiety within and between exposure stages compared to low fearfuls. Consistent with attentional hyper-vigilance, the high-fear group also demonstrated greater P1 litude in response to spider images. In both groups, habituation of P1 litude was found at later relative to earlier stages, but increased at stage six when the stage 1 image was re-presented, despite low subjective anxiety. While the passive viewing paradigm mirrored image-based exposure, it was not possible to determine whether participants engaged in avoidance strategies. In addition, further research is needed to assess the relevance of habituation and reinstatement of P1 litude to therapeutic outcome. Habituation of subjective anxiety during image-based exposure is not necessarily accompanied by a reduction in measures of cortical hyper-vigilance. The reinstatement of the P1 response may indicate either re-activation of previous associations, less avoidance, or a more generalised dishabituation mechanism.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.PNPBP.2019.03.017
Abstract: Cannabinoids are a promising method for pharmacological treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Despite considerable research devoted to the effect of cannabinoid modulation on PTSD symptomology, there is not a currently agreed way by which the cannabinoid system should be targeted in humans. In this review, we present an overview of recent research identifying neurological pathways by which different cannabinoid-based treatments may exert their effects on PTSD symptomology. We evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of each of these different approaches, including recent challenges presented to favourable options such as fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitors. This article makes the strengths and challenges of different potential cannabinoid treatments accessible to psychological researchers interested in cannabinoid therapeutics and aims to aid selection of appropriate tools for future clinical trials.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 11-2002
DOI: 10.1007/S00213-002-1220-1
Abstract: Lorazepam has been found to consistently impair performance on both episodic and perceptual priming tasks, whereas other benzodiazepines have shown perceptual priming to be preserved. However, it has recently been postulated that benzodiazepines may exert time-dependent effects on implicit memory processes after research findings indicated some benzodiazepines, other than lorazepam, impair performance on priming tasks when tested at the time of peak plasma concentration level after benzodiazepine administration. To compare time-dependent effects of lorazepam and oxazepam on implicit memory tasks, specifically perceptual priming and procedural learning. Thirty-three healthy female undergraduates were randomised to one of three time groups (pre-peak, peak, post-peak) and administered placebo, 2.5 mg lorazepam, and 30 mg oxazepam, in counterbalanced order, at 1-week intervals. Assessments included word-stem completion (perceptual priming) and rotary pursuit (procedural learning) tasks. At all time intervals, lorazepam but not oxazepam significantly impaired perceptual priming but procedural learning was preserved under both drugs. These findings are consistent with previous research showing a differential effect of lorazepam in impairing perceptual memory but the notion that benzodiazepines exert time-dependent effects on implicit memory processes was not supported.
Publisher: S. Karger AG
Date: 2010
DOI: 10.1159/000306592
Abstract: i Aims/Objectives: /i Methylenedioxymeth hetamine affects the central serotonergic system, and there is some evidence for an association between ecstasy use (drugs sold as methylenedioxymeth hetamine) and depression. The aim of the present study was to investigate the incidence of self-reported depression and associated help-seeking among a s le of regular ecstasy users. A further aim was to examine the correlates of depressive symptomatology in this population. i Materials and Methods: /i 100 regular ecstasy consumers (at least monthly use) were interviewed as part of the Ecstasy and Related Drug Reporting System in Tasmania, Australia. Participants were also administered epidemiological measures of depression (Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale) and psychological distress (Kessler Psychological Distress Scale). i Results: /i One quarter (23%) of participants self-reported recent experience of depression, a rate notably greater than the general population. However, only one third of these participants had attended a health professional for this issue. A range of drug use factors (e.g. frequency and quantity of ecstasy use, frequent cannabis or meth hetamine use, intravenous drug use, polydrug use, binge drug use, harmful alcohol use, and elevated psychological dependence scores for ecstasy and meth hetamine) were associated with high levels of depressive symptomatology. i Conclusion: /i These findings are consistent with an association between depressive symptomatology and ecstasy and other drug use. Harm reduction strategies which target drug use factors such as those identified in this study may also aid in the reduction of the experience of depression. Considering the low levels of help-seeking among this population, improving awareness and access to information and treatment for depression may also be important.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 03-2012
DOI: 10.1017/BEC.2012.7
Abstract: This research aimed to examine the effects of moving (videos) versus static (pictures) images on habituation and progression in a hierarchy during online symbolic exposure (OSE) for spider fear. Participants were 351 people with high spider fear who logged on to an OSE website ( www.feardrop.com ) for self-help purposes. The inclusion of moving images in the exposure hierarchy increased adherence rates relative to static images, particularly among those with lower relative to higher spider fear. Those who viewed moving images at Stage 2 showed higher Subjective Units of Distress Scale (SUDS) ratings overall, but a similar pattern of habituation relative to those who viewed static images. In addition, 71% of participants completed at least one stage of the OSE program, representing an improvement from 30% adherence in previous research that used an earlier version of the program. These findings support the development of tailored exposure hierarchies to maximise adherence and treatment benefit for in idual participants.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2009
DOI: 10.1016/J.BANDL.2009.09.002
Abstract: Previous research suggests a relationship between spatial attention and phonological decoding in developmental dyslexia. The aim of this study was to examine differences between good and poor phonological decoders in the allocation of spatial attention to global and local levels of hierarchical stimuli. A further aim was to investigate the relationship between global/local processing and electrophysiological indices (N1, N2) of spatial attention in these groups. Good (n=18) and poor (n=16) phonological decoders were selected on the basis of non-word reading ability. Participants responded to either the global or local level of hierarchical stimuli presented in the left or right visual field in a sustained attention task. Poor phonological decoders showed slower RT relative to good phonological decoders regardless of whether attention was directed to either global or local processing levels. This was accompanied by a lack of task-related modulation of the posterior N1 and N2 Event-Related Potential (ERP) components, suggesting differences in the early allocation of spatial attention and later perceptual processing respectively. Poor decoders also showed greater N2 litude overall, suggestive of compensatory processing at later perceptual stages. There was preliminary evidence for sex differences in hemispheric lateralisation, with a reversal of hemispheric lateralisation observed among male and female poor phonological decoders. These findings have important implications for the understanding of the relationship between spatial attention and phonological decoding in developmental dyslexia.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 24-04-2023
DOI: 10.1111/BJET.13329
Abstract: Predictors of academic success at university are of great interest to educators, researchers and policymakers. With more students studying online, it is important to understand whether traditional predictors of academic outcomes in face‐to‐face settings are relevant to online learning. This study modelled self‐regulatory and demographic predictors of subject grades in 84 online and 80 face‐to‐face undergraduate students. Predictors were effort regulation, grade goal, academic self‐efficacy, performance self‐efficacy, age, sex, socio‐economic status (SES) and first‐in‐family status. A multi‐group path analysis indicated that the models were significantly different across learning modalities. For face‐to‐face students, none of the model variables significantly predicted grades. For online students, only performance self‐efficacy significantly predicted grades (small effect). Findings suggest that learner characteristics may not function in the same way across learning modes. Further factor analytic and hierarchical research is needed to determine whether self‐regulatory predictors of academic success continue to be relevant to modern student cohorts. What is already known about this topic Self‐regulatory and demographic variables are important predictors of university outcomes like grades. It is unclear whether the relationships between predictor variables and outcomes are the same across learning modalities, as research findings are mixed. What this paper adds Models predicting university students' grades by demographic and self‐regulatory predictors differed significantly between face‐to‐face and online learning modalities. Performance self‐efficacy significantly predicted grades for online students. No self‐regulatory variables significantly predicted grades for face‐to‐face students, and no demographic variables significantly predicted grades in either cohort. Overall, traditional predictors of grades showed no/small unique effects in both cohorts. Implications for practice and/or policy The learner characteristics that predict success may not be the same across learning modalities. Approaches to enhancing success in face‐to‐face settings are not automatically applicable to online settings. Self‐regulatory variables may not predict university outcomes as strongly as previously believed, and more research is needed.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2023
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 17-04-2018
DOI: 10.1080/02699931.2017.1310717
Abstract: Attentional bias towards threat can be demonstrated by enhanced processing of threat-related targets and/or greater interference when threat-related distractors are present. These effects are argued to reflect processing within the orienting and executive control networks of the brain respectively. This study investigated behavioural (RT) and electrophysiological correlates of early selective attention and top-down attentional control among females with high (n = 16) or low (n = 16) spider fear (Mean age = 22 years). Participants completed a novel flanker go/nogo task in which a central schematic flower or spider stimulus was flanked by either congruent or incongruent distractors. Participants responded to green stimuli (go trials) and withheld response to yellow stimuli (nogo trials). High fear participants demonstrated significantly shorter reaction times and greater P1 litude to spider targets, suggesting specific hypervigilance towards threat-relevant stimuli. In contrast to predictions, there was little evidence for behavioural interference effects or differences in N2 litude when distractor stimuli were threat-relevant.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 11-2013
DOI: 10.1111/DAR.12077
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 12-2010
Abstract: This research aimed to investigate habituation to spider images during an online exposure treatment ( www.feardrop.com ) among participants with a high fear of spiders. Participants ( N = 392) undertook a 10-stage online exposure treatment with a stage length of either 180 or 360 seconds. Four Subjective Units of Distress Scale (SUDS) ratings were taken throughout each stage. Treatment completion was found to be a significant challenge, with less than one-third (30%) completing at least one stage of the program. Those in the shorter stage length condition were significantly more likely to complete the first stage relative to those in the longer stage length condition (43% vs. 16%). SUDS ratings decreased significantly across time at Stage 1, suggesting habituation of self-reported anxiety and there was an overall reduction in SUDS ratings at the second relative to the first stage, suggesting generalisation of habituation. The greatest habituation was observed among those with high anticipatory anxiety (pre-exposure SUDS rating), high total exposure time, and younger age. There was preliminary evidence for improvement in symptoms of spider fear at post-treatment. Directions for future research include strategies to facilitate treatment completion, evaluation of treatment outcomes, and expansion to include a range of specific fears.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2021
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.AAP.2017.05.008
Abstract: Driving following illicit drug consumption ('drug-driving') is a potential road safety risk. Roadside drug testing (RDT) is conducted across Australia with the dual aims of prosecuting drivers with drugs in their system and deterring drug-driving. We examined trends over time in self-reported past six-month drug-driving among sentinel s les of regular drug users and assessed the impact of experiences of RDT on drug-driving among these participants. Data from 1913 people who inject drugs (PWID) and 3140 regular psychostimulant users (RPU) who were first-time participants in a series of repeat cross-sectional sentinel studies conducted in Australian capital cities from 2007 to 2013 and reported driving in the past six months were analysed. Trends over time were assessed using the χ The percentage of participants reporting recent (past six months) drug-driving decreased significantly over time among both s les (PWID: 83% [2007] vs. 74% [2013], p<0.001 RPU: 72% vs. 56%, p<0.001), but drug-driving remained prevalent. Lifetime experience of RDT increased significantly over time (PWID: 6% [2007] vs. 32% [2013], p<0.001 RPU: 2% vs. 11%, p<0.001). There were no significant associations between experiencing RDT and drug-driving among either PWID or RPU. Although there is some evidence that drug-driving among key risk groups of regular drug users is declining in Australia, possibly reflecting a general deterrent effect of RDT, experiencing RDT appears to have no specific deterrent effect on drug-driving. Further intervention, with a particular focus on changing attitudes towards drug-driving, may be needed to further reduce this practice among these groups.
Publisher: American Psychological Association (APA)
Date: 08-2020
DOI: 10.1037/PHA0000326
Abstract: Despite research advances, it remains unclear if long-term, regular cannabis use harms cognition once intoxication has passed. Our meta-analysis aimed to investigate the association between cognitive functioning and long-term (mean ≥2 years), regular (mean ≥4 days/week), recreational cannabis use in adults during abstinence (mean ≥12 hr). We searched PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Scopus, and Dissertations and Theses International for English-language articles from the date each database began until May 22, 2019. We identified study inclusion by completing abstract and full text screening using predetermined criteria and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis guidelines. We classified cognitive performance into 6 cognitive domains (attention, executive function, learning and memory, decision making, information processing, and working memory), and included a global measure. Effect sizes were calculated for each domain using univariate meta-analyses. There were 30 studies with a total 849 participants who used cannabis (M = 30.7-years-old, SD = 5.5-years-old) and 764 control participants (M = 30.3-years-old, SD = 5.9-years-old). Cannabis was associated with significant but small-magnitude deficits in executive function, learning and memory, and global cognition, while decision making had moderate deficits. There were small-magnitude and nonsignificant group differences for information processing, working memory, and attention. Cannabis use duration, age of onset, and prolonged abstinence (≥25 days) did not influence outcomes, except group differences in executive function were nonsignificant in analyses of prolonged abstinence. Our results suggest that long-term, regular cannabis use is associated with small to moderate deficits in some cognitive domains. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved).
Publisher: American Psychological Association (APA)
Date: 05-2018
DOI: 10.1037/ADB0000368
Abstract: Research reports show increased prevalence of habitual khat chewing among various parts of the community in Ethiopia. Some users experience problems controlling their use withdrawal symptoms may be adding to difficulties with reducing or ceasing use. We aimed to describe the nature and the time course of any withdrawal syndrome in relation to the cessation of khat use over the first 2 weeks of a quit attempt. Fifty-nine participants between the ages of 18 and 35 and who have already chewed ≥1 bundle of khat in their life with a chewing frequency of ≥3 days per week were recruited from Adama Science and Technology University c us. Participants were predominantly male (n = 45, 75%) and had the mean age of 24.8 years (range = 20-32 SD = 2.8). Participants used smart phones to monitor withdrawal symptoms and cravings. The total assessments were ided in to 3 prequit and 14 postquit days. The development of withdrawal symptoms was evident, and all withdrawal symptoms followed similar overall patterns, with salient elevations after the quit day and curvatures around the first week of postquit period. Depression, craving, nervousness, tiredness, restlessness, poor motivation, irritability, and negative affect substantially increased and reached peak on the first week around Day 7 and remained higher compared with the level at baseline indicating the persistence and severity of these symptoms over time. In addition, craving, irritability, and restlessness had significantly reverted to their baseline level during the second week of the postquit duration. We have demonstrated low rates of success during unaided quite attempts from khat and that the withdrawal syndrome is not trivial. Interventions are necessary to support in iduals during the period of increased symptoms of dysphoria and to reduce the risk of relapse. (PsycINFO Database Record
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.ADDBEH.2012.04.012
Abstract: Residual effects of ecstasy use induce neurotransmitter changes that make it biologically plausible that extended use of the drug may induce psychological distress. However, there has been only mixed support for this in the literature. The presence of polysubstance use is a confounding factor. The aim of this study was to investigate whether regular cannabis and/or regular meth hetamine use confers additional risk of poor mental health and high levels of psychological distress, beyond regular ecstasy use alone. Three years of data from a yearly, cross-sectional, quantitative survey of Australian regular ecstasy users was examined. Participants were ided into four groups according to whether they regularly (at least monthly) used ecstasy only (n=936), ecstasy and weekly cannabis (n=697), ecstasy and weekly meth hetamine (n=108) or ecstasy, weekly cannabis and weekly meth hetamine (n=180). Self-reported mental health problems and Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10) were examined. Approximately one-fifth of participants self-reported at least one mental health problem, most commonly depression and anxiety. The addition of regular cannabis and/or meth hetamine use substantially increases the likelihood of self-reported mental health problems, particularly with regard to paranoia, over regular ecstasy use alone. Regular cannabis use remained significantly associated with self reported mental health problems even when other differences between groups were accounted for. Regular cannabis and meth hetamine use was also associated with earlier initiation to ecstasy use. These findings suggest that patterns of drug use can help identify at risk groups that could benefit from targeted approaches in education and interventions. Given that early initiation to substance use was more common in those with regular cannabis and meth hetamine use and given that this group had a higher likelihood of mental health problems, work around delaying onset of initiation should continue to be a priority.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.DRUGALCDEP.2014.09.015
Abstract: Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol and illicit drugs is a serious road safety concern. This research aimed to examine trends in DUI across time and changes in attitudes towards the risks (crash and legal) associated with DUI among regular ecstasy users (REU) interviewed in Australia. Participants were regular (at least monthly) ecstasy users surveyed in 2007 (n=573) or 2011 (n=429) who had driven a car in the last six months. Face to face interviews comprised questions about recent engagement of DUI and roadside breath (alcohol) and saliva (drug) testing. Participants also reported the risk of crash and of being apprehended by police if DUI of alcohol, cannabis, ecstasy, and meth hetamine. There were significant reductions in DUI of psychostimulants (ecstasy, meth hetamine, cocaine, LSD) but not alcohol or cannabis between 2007 and 2011. This was accompanied by increased experience of roadside saliva testing and increases in crash and legal risk perceptions for ecstasy and meth hetamine, but not alcohol or cannabis. When the relationship between DUI and risk variables was examined, low crash risk perceptions were associated with DUI of all substances and low legal risk perceptions were associated with DUI of ecstasy. The observed reduction in DUI of psychostimulants among frequent ecstasy consumers may be related to increased risk awareness stemming from educational c aigns and the introduction of saliva testing on Australian roads. Such countermeasures may be less effective in relation to deterring or changing attitudes towards DUI of cannabis and alcohol among this group.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 05-03-2014
DOI: 10.1002/DTA.1626
Abstract: New Psychoactive Substances are now a feature of Australia's recreational drug market. Little is known, however, about the prevalence of use, the characteristics of people who use them and the relationship between the NPS and ecstasy markets. This study examined the prevalence and correlates of NPS use amongst a group of regular ecstasy users in Australia. Participants were recruited if they had used ecstasy at least six times in the previous six months, lived in a capital city and were over 16 years of age. Purposive s ling was used, recruiting through universities and colleges, word of mouth and street press. 654 participants were recruited in 2013. Respondents who had used an NPS in the past six months were compared to those who had not. NPS were used by 44% of the total s le. In 2013 2C-I (14%) and 2C-B (8%) were the most prevalent NPS. Respondents in the NPS group were younger and reported more frequent use of more types of drugs. They were also more likely to rate the purity of ecstasy as low relative to those in the no NPS group. NPS are now an established part of Australia's recreational drug scene and NPS with hallucinogenic effects are now used most commonly. Monitoring systems need to develop capacity to monitor this highly dynamic market.
Publisher: Bentham Science Publishers Ltd.
Date: 29-03-2011
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 21-07-2015
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2021
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2006
DOI: 10.1016/J.NEULET.2006.02.043
Abstract: Previous behavioural studies have provided a framework for understanding coordination dynamics using traditional dual-task methodology. The central cost associated with stabilising bimanual coordination patterns has been inferred from performance trade-offs during the concurrent performance of a probe reaction time (RT) task. The present study aimed to provide a direct measure of central cost by assessing electrophysiological correlates of performance trade-offs under dual-task conditions. Event-related potentials (ERPs) were recorded from 16 participants while an anti-phase bimanual coordination task and a visual three-stimulus task were performed under single task conditions and under dual-task conditions in which either task was prioritised. The visual task required a foot response to low probability target stimuli, while low probability distracter and high probability standard stimuli were ignored. Consistent with previous research, there was a performance trade-off between pattern stability and RT to visual targets when the coordination task was prioritised relative to when the visual task was prioritised. This was accompanied by a significant reduction in central P3a litude elicited by distracter stimuli and parietal P3b litude elicited by target stimuli. These findings indicate that prioritisation and thus stabilisation of the motor task reduced the amount of central erceptual and automatic attentional resources available to perform the visual task providing insight into CNS mechanisms that constrain the coordination of movement through the allocation of attentional resources.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.BIOPSYCHO.2015.07.013
Abstract: The aim of the study was to investigate the relationship between chronic cannabis use and visual selective attention by examining event-related potentials (ERPs) during the performance of a flanker go/nogo task. Male participants were 15 chronic cannabis users (minimum two years use, at least once per week) and 15 drug naive controls. Cannabis users showed longer reaction times compared to controls with equivalent accuracy. Cannabis users also showed a reduction in the N2 'nogo effect' at frontal sites, particularly for incongruent stimuli, and particularly in the right hemisphere. This suggests differences between chronic cannabis users and controls in terms of inhibitory processing within the executive control network, and may implicate the right inferior frontal cortex. There was also preliminary evidence for differences in early selective attention, with controls but not cannabis users showing modulation of N1 litude by flanker congruency. Further investigation is required to examine the potential reversibility of these residual effects after long-term abstinence and to examine the role of early selective attention mechanisms in more detail.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 30-10-2018
DOI: 10.1111/DAR.12622
Abstract: Despite the adverse effects of khat use and chewers interest in cessation, there are few studies that have reported on the outcome of khat cessation attempts, and limited resources available for potential quitters. We used electronic diaries to monitor the outcomes of an unassisted quit attempt among daily and near daily khat consumers, and examine predictors of success. Sixty participants between the ages of 18 and 35 years who regularly chewed khat and who were attempting to quit were purposively recruited from an Ethiopian University c us. Real-time prospective daily recording of khat use was obtained for an average of 10 days prior to quit day (range 6-13) and 28 post-quit days (range 9-31), using an electronic diary. Almost all (95%) achieved initial abstinence. Of these, 80% reached at least seven continuous days of abstinence 7% maintained continuous abstinence for 28 days post-quit. While 93% lapsed (average 11 days post-quit, SD = 7), only a smaller proportion relapsed (41%: chewed for at least three consecutive days after at least 5 days of abstinence). No demographic factors were predictive of successful abstinence. Regular khat chewers have difficulties in maintaining abstinence despite having motivation and desire to quit. This implies that treatment aids may be needed to assist chewers' in their quit attempts. Controlled experimental trial through the use of available low cost quit aids and behavioural resources is crucial in order to increase success rates for those seeking to desist from khat use.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.IJPSYCHO.2018.10.010
Abstract: Fear conditioning and extinction is a construct integral to understanding trauma-, stress- and anxiety-related disorders. In the laboratory, associative learning paradigms that pair aversive with neutral stimuli are used as analogues to real-life fear learning. These studies use physiological indices, such as skin conductance, to sensitively measure rates and intensity of learning and extinction. In this review, we discuss some of the potential limitations in interpreting and analysing physiological data during the acquisition or extinction of conditioned fear. We argue that the utmost attention should be paid to the development of modelling approaches of physiological data in associative learning paradigms, by illustrating the lack of replicability and interpretability of results in current methods. We also show that statistical significance may be easily achieved in this paradigm without more stringent data and data analysis reporting requirements, leaving this particular field vulnerable to misleading conclusions. This review is written so that issues and potential solutions are accessible to researchers without mathematical training. We conclude the review with some suggestions that all laboratories should be able to implement, including visualising the full data set in publications and adopting modelling, or at least regression-based, approaches.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-2018
DOI: 10.1002/HUP.2653
Abstract: This study aimed to determine the efficacy of the Severity of Dependence Scale (SDS) as a screening tool for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition-defined khat use disorder. Cross-sectional, purposive s le of past-year khat consumers aged 16 and above were recruited from khat markets and cafes from university and general community in Adama, Ethiopia. Participants self-completed a survey comprising current substance use disorder. The SDS formed a unifactorial structure, consistent with the dependence construct. Almost three quarters (73%) of the s le were identified as experiencing Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition khat use disorder. The SDS demonstrated excellent discrimination (area under the curve = 0.92) and an optimal cut-off as a score of 3 or greater, with sensitivity of 81% and specificity of 96%. This classification validly identified a group with more frequent and higher dose khat use than participants that did not screen positive. Although khat is a mild stimulant, there is clear evidence that some consumers are both concerned with their use and experience problems associated with their use. Consistent with its application for other drugs, the SDS is a brief and simple screening tool that appears to validly identify in iduals experiencing a khat use disorder syndrome and experiencing high rates of adverse consequences in association with use.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2021
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 11-05-2023
DOI: 10.1007/S12144-023-04695-X
Abstract: This systematic review aimed to identify 1) the effect of mindfulness training on pre-post measures of anxiety and attention among adults experiencing high levels of generalised anxiety and 2) the impact of predictors, mediators and moderators on post-intervention changes in anxiety or attention. Trait mindfulness and distress measures were included as secondary outcomes. A systematic search was conducted in November 2021 in electronic databases using relevant search terms. Eight articles comprising four independent studies were included ( N = 334). All studies included participants diagnosed with generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) who participated in an 8-week manualised program. The meta-analysis indicated that mindfulness training had a large effect on anxiety symptoms ( g = -1.92, 95% CI [-3.44, -0.40]) when compared to inactive (i.e., care as usual, waitlist) or non-specified (i.e., condition not defined) controls. However, a significant effect was not found when compared to active controls. Effects for depression, worry and trait mindfulness did not reach statistical significance, despite small-large effect sizes favouring mindfulness compared to inactive/non-specified controls. Our narrative review found evidence that changes in aspects of trait mindfulness mediate anxiety reduction following mindfulness training. However, a small number of studies were available for inclusion in the review, with high risk of bias and low certainty of evidence present. Overall, the findings support the use of mindfulness training programs for GAD and indicate mechanisms that may differ from those involved in other cognitive therapy approaches. Further RCTs with evidence-based controls are needed to clarify techniques most beneficial for generalised anxiety to support in idually tailored treatment.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.ADDBEH.2017.12.009
Abstract: Cannabis intoxication adversely affects health, yet persistent effects following short-term abstinence in long-term cannabis users are unclear. This matched-subjects, cross-sectional study compared health outcomes of long-term cannabis and long-term tobacco-only users, relative to population norms. Nineteen long-term (mean 32.3years of use, mean age 55.7years), abstinent (mean 15h) cannabis users and 16 long-term tobacco users (mean 37.1years of use, mean age 52.9years), matched for age, educational attainment, and lifetime tobacco consumption, were compared on measures of learning and memory, response inhibition, information-processing, sustained attention, executive control, and mental and physical health. Cannabis users exhibited poorer overall learning and delayed recall and greater interference and forgetting than tobacco users, and exhibited poorer recall than norms. Inhibition and executive control were similar between groups, but cannabis users had slower reaction times during information processing and sustained attention tasks. Cannabis users had superior health satisfaction and psychological, somatic, and general health than tobacco users and had similar mental and physical health to norms whilst tobacco users had greater stress, role limitations from emotional problems, and poorer health satisfaction. Long-term cannabis users may exhibit deficits in some cognitive domains despite short-term abstinence and may therefore benefit from interventions to improve cognitive performance. Tobacco alone may contribute to adverse mental and physical health outcomes, which requires appropriate control in future studies.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2009
DOI: 10.1016/J.DRUGALCDEP.2008.08.012
Abstract: The aim of the present study was to investigate factors associated with driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol and other drugs (ecstasy, cannabis and meth hetamine) among a group of regular ecstasy users. Participants were those who participated in the Australian Ecstasy and related Drug Reporting System (EDRS) in 2007 and had recently driven a motor vehicle (n=573). Participants were administered a semi-structured face-to-face interview which included questions about ecstasy and other drug use, associated health-related issues, and risk behaviours. Close to half of those who were current consumers of ecstasy, cannabis, and meth hetamine had recently driven under the influence of these drugs, while two-fifths of current alcohol users reported recent drink driving. Frequency of use for each substance was the most significant correlate of DUI of alcohol, cannabis, and meth hetamine, suggesting that interventions targeting high frequency and problematic drug use may be useful in reducing the occurrence of DUI for these substances. Low perception of the likelihood of having an accident was the most significant correlate of DUI of ecstasy and also related significantly to DUI of other substances. Perceptions of low likelihood of being apprehended by police and demographic characteristics such as younger age and male sex were also weakly associated with DUI. Together these findings have important implications for targeted interventions aimed at reducing the occurrence of DUI among regular drug users.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2021
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.DRUGALCDEP.2016.01.024
Abstract: To examine the rates and patterns of new psychoactive substance (NPS) use amongst regular psychostimulant users (RPU) in Australia. Data were obtained from the 2010-2015 Ecstasy and related Drugs Reporting System (EDRS), which comprised a total cross-sectional s le of 4122RPU. Recent use of 'any' NPS increased from 33% in 2010 to 40% in 2015, although trends of use differed significantly across NPS classes. The correlates associated with NPS use also varied across NPS classes: frequent (i.e. weekly or more) ecstasy users were more likely to report recent phenethylamine use LSD users were more likely to report recent phenethylamine and tryptamine use and daily cannabis users were more likely to report recent synthetic cannabinoid use than RPU who had not used NPS. 'Poly' NPS consumers were found to be a particularly high risk group and were significantly more likely to be younger, male, report daily cannabis use, report weekly or more ecstasy use, report recent LSD use, have higher levels of poly drug use, have overdosed on any drug in the past year, and to have engaged in past month criminal activity. NPS use has been established as a significant and ongoing practice amongst our s le of RPU. It appears that RPU seek out NPS with similar properties to the illicit drugs that they are already consuming, with poly NPS consumers found to be a particularly high risk group.
No related grants have been discovered for Allison Matthews.