ORCID Profile
0000-0002-7176-8987
Current Organisations
Macquarie University Department of Psychology
,
University of Queensland
,
Queensland University of Technology Faculty of Health
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Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.PSYCHRES.2016.04.077
Abstract: Internationally there is a growing interest in the mental wellbeing of young people. However, it is unclear whether mental wellbeing is best conceptualized as a general wellbeing factor or a multidimensional construct. This paper investigated whether mental wellbeing, measured by the Mental Health Continuum-Short Form (MHC-SF), is best represented by: (1) a single-factor general model (2) a three-factor multidimensional model or (3) a combination of both (bifactor model). 2220 young Australians aged between 16 and 25 years completed an online survey including the MHC-SF and a range of other wellbeing and mental ill-health measures. Exploratory factor analysis supported a bifactor solution, comprised of a general wellbeing factor, and specific group factors of psychological, social and emotional wellbeing. Confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the bifactor model had a better fit than competing single and three-factor models. The MHC-SF total score was more strongly associated with other wellbeing and mental ill-health measures than the social, emotional or psychological subscale scores. Findings indicate that the mental wellbeing of young people is best conceptualized as an overarching latent construct (general wellbeing) to which emotional, social and psychological domains contribute. The MHC-SF total score is a valid and reliable measure of this general wellbeing factor.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.ADDBEH.2017.09.020
Abstract: Mobile apps provide a highly accessible way of reducing alcohol use in young people. This paper determines the 1-month efficacy and 2, 3 and 6month outcomes of the Ray's Night Out app, which aims to increase alcohol knowledge and reduce alcohol use in young people. User-experience design and agile development processes, informed by the Information-Motivation-Behavioral skills model and evidence-based motivational interviewing treatment approaches guided app development. A randomized controlled trial comparing immediate versus 1-month delayed access to the app was conducted in 197 young people (16 to 25years) who drank alcohol in the previous month. Participants were assessed at baseline, 1, 2, 3 and 6months. Alcohol knowledge, alcohol use and related harms and the severity of problematic drinking were assessed. App quality was evaluated after 1-month of app use. Participants in the immediate access group achieved a significantly greater increase in alcohol knowledge than the delayed access group at 1-month, but no differences in alcohol use or related problems were found. Both groups achieved significant reductions in the typical number of drinks on a drinking occasion over time. A reduction in maximum drinks consumed was also found at 1month. These reductions were most likely to occur in males and problem drinkers. Reductions in alcohol-related harm were also found. The app received a high mean quality (M=3.82/5, SD=0.51). The Ray app provides a youth-friendly and easily-accessible way of increasing young people's alcohol knowledge but further testing is required to determine its impact on alcohol use and related problems.
Publisher: Copernicus GmbH
Date: 03-11-2017
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2017
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 14-09-2017
DOI: 10.1111/ADD.14010
Abstract: To test if the degree of change in cannabis use between 2001 and 2013 differed according to socio-economic status. Repeated cross-sectional household surveys that were nationally representative. Australia. Adult s les from the 2001 and 2013 National Drug Strategy Household Surveys (n = 23 642 in 2001 and n = 21 353 in 2013), the largest nationally representative survey on drug use in Australia. Frequency of cannabis use coded as daily use, weekly use, less than weekly use and non-current use socio-economic status (SES) as measured by personal income and educational level. There were significant differences in changes to levels of cannabis use between SES groups. Among participants who completed high school, the probability of daily use decreased from 0.014 to 0.009 (P < 0.001), and the probability of weekly use decreased from 0.025 to 0.017 (P < 0.001). These probabilities remained stable for participants who did not complete high school. The probability of weekly cannabis use decreased from 0.032 to 0.023 among participants with middle level income (P = 0.004), and from 0.021 to 0.013 among those with high income (P = 0.005). There were no significant changes in these probabilities among those with low income (0.026 in 2001 and 0.032 in 2013 P = 0.203). The decline in cannabis use in Australia from 2001 to 2013 occurred largely among higher socio-economic status groups. For people with lower income and/or lower education, rates of frequent cannabis use remained unchanged.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 27-02-2020
Abstract: TSD Coach Australia is an app for serving and ex-serving defense members and was adapted for the Australian context in 2013 from PTSD Coach, which was created in the United States. his study aimed to provide a user-centered evaluation of the app from the perspective of serving and ex-serving members of the Australian Defence Force. ualitative data were collected in response to questions to participants in 1 of 5 workshops (n=29) or in telephone interviews (n=24). Quantitative data were collected using the user version of Mobile Apps Rating Scale (uMARS). nalysis of the qualitative data demonstrated mixed support for the app. While some people found it extremely useful, especially as an adjunct to therapy, others pointed out limitations and cautioned against the app potentially triggering symptoms in people with PTSD. This perceived risk was usually found to stem from frustration with the app’s functionality rather than its content. Participants spoke about the helpful and unhelpful aspects of the app and barriers to its use and made suggestions for improvement. Many participants encouraged its continued use and highlighted the need for it to be promoted more broadly, as many were not aware of it until they were invited to participate in this research. TSD Coach Australia was seen in a positive light by some participants, but others thought it had too much text and the potential to trigger a traumatic response in users with PTSD. A need to update the app was also a common comment as was the need to increase awareness of the app’s existence.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 23-03-2022
Abstract: Epoxy and aziridinyl enolsilanes react as oxyallylic cation equivalents in highly chemo- and diastereoselective intramolecular (3+2) cycloadditions with a range of dienes and olefins. With acyclic dienes, the (3+2) cycloaddition outcompetes the (4+3) pathway traditionally observed in this kind of system almost exclusively. With both conjugated dienes and isolated olefins, excellent diastereoselectivities are observed, and cycloadducts can be obtained in optically-enriched forms. Computational studies indicate that the stepwise (3+2) cycloaddition involves an activated epoxy/aziridinyl intermediate and the conformational flexibility of the intermediate determines the preference for (3+2) cycloadduct formation. Further transformations of the (3+2) cycloadducts produce densely functionalized trans-hydrindane scaffolds.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 19-09-2015
DOI: 10.3109/10826084.2015.1018541
Abstract: The current study had two aims. First, to develop a moral disengagement scale contextualized to underage drinking. Second, to investigate Bandura's (1986) self-regulatory model within the context of underage drinking. Two different s les of students participated in the study. The first s le included 619 (362 females) adolescents (Mage = 15.3 years, SD = 1.09 years) and the second s le 636 (386 females) adolescents (Mage = 15.3 years, SD = 1.03 years). Students in the first s le completed the Underage Drinking Disengagement Scale (UDDS), and measures of engagement in underage drinking and heavy episodic drinking. Students in the second s le completed these measures as well as scales of general moral disengagement, personal standards, and anticipatory guilt associated with underage drinking. For the UDDS, exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses verified a single factor structure. The UDDS was more strongly associated with engagement in underage drinking and heavy episodic drinking than a general measure of moral disengagement. A moderated mediation analysis revealed that adolescents who negatively evaluated underage drinking reported more anticipatory guilt, and more anticipatory guilt was associated with less engagement in underage drinking and less heavy episodic drinking. This relationship was weaker at high compared to low levels of underage drinking disengagement. Understanding how adolescents self-regulate their drinking, and ways that such self-regulation may be deactivated or disengaged, may help identify those adolescents at increased risk of drinking underage and of engaging in heavy episodic drinking.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 08-10-2020
DOI: 10.2196/18447
Abstract: PTSD Coach Australia is an app for serving and ex-serving defense members and was adapted for the Australian context in 2013 from PTSD Coach, which was created in the United States. This study aimed to provide a user-centered evaluation of the app from the perspective of serving and ex-serving members of the Australian Defence Force. Qualitative data were collected in response to questions to participants in 1 of 5 workshops (n=29) or in telephone interviews (n=24). Quantitative data were collected using the user version of Mobile Apps Rating Scale (uMARS). Analysis of the qualitative data demonstrated mixed support for the app. While some people found it extremely useful, especially as an adjunct to therapy, others pointed out limitations and cautioned against the app potentially triggering symptoms in people with PTSD. This perceived risk was usually found to stem from frustration with the app’s functionality rather than its content. Participants spoke about the helpful and unhelpful aspects of the app and barriers to its use and made suggestions for improvement. Many participants encouraged its continued use and highlighted the need for it to be promoted more broadly, as many were not aware of it until they were invited to participate in this research. PTSD Coach Australia was seen in a positive light by some participants, but others thought it had too much text and the potential to trigger a traumatic response in users with PTSD. A need to update the app was also a common comment as was the need to increase awareness of the app’s existence.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 29-07-2020
DOI: 10.2196/15803
Abstract: Young Australians (16-25 years) have the highest rates of past-month cannabis use in the world. Cannabis use increases the risk of alcohol and other drug disorders and depressive disorders, and has a robust dose-response association with psychotic experiences (PEs) and disorders. PEs are subthreshold positive psychotic symptoms, including delusions and hallucinations, which increase the risk of substance use, depressive or anxiety disorders, and psychotic disorders. Access to effective web-based early interventions targeting both cannabis use and PEs could reduce such risk in young people. The objective of this study is to determine the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of the Keep it Real web-based program compared to an information-only control website among young cannabis users (16-25 years) with PEs. Participants are recruited online, and consenting in iduals meeting inclusion criteria (aged 16-25 years, who have used cannabis in the past month and experienced PEs in the past 3 months) are automatically randomized to either the Keep it Real web-based program (n=249) or an information-only control website (n=249). Both websites are self-guided (fully automated). The baseline and follow-up assessments at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months are self-completed online. Primary outcome measures are weekly cannabis use, PEs, and the relative cost-effectiveness for quality-adjusted life years. Secondary outcomes include other substance use and related problems, PE-related distress, cannabis intoxication experiences, severity of cannabis dependence, depression/anxiety symptoms, suicidality, and mental well-being and functioning. Recruitment commenced in February 2019, and the results are expected to be submitted for publication in mid-2021. This study protocol describes a large randomized controlled trial of a new web-based program for young cannabis users experiencing PEs. If effective, the accessibility and scalability of Keep it Real could help reduce growing public health concerns about the significant social, economic, and health impacts of cannabis use. Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12618001107213 www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=374800 DERR1-10.2196/15803
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 02-2019
Abstract: We perform a global fit of the extended scalar singlet model with a fermionic dark matter (DM) candidate. Using the most up-to-date results from the Planck measured DM relic density, direct detection limits from the XENON1T (2018) experiment, electroweak precision observables and Higgs searches at colliders, we constrain the 7-dimensional model parameter space. We also find regions in the model parameter space where a successful electroweak baryogenesis (EWBG) can be viable. This allows us to compute the gravitational wave (GW) signals arising from the phase transition, and discuss the potential discovery prospects of the model at current and future GW experiments. Our global fit places a strong upper and lower limit on the second scalar mass, the fermion DM mass and the scalar-fermion DM coupling. In agreement with previous studies, we find that our model can simultaneously yield a strong first-order phase transition and saturate the observed DM abundance. More importantly, the GW spectra of viable points can often be within reach of future GW experiments such as LISA, DECIGO and BBO.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.ADDBEH.2016.06.007
Abstract: The adverse impact of bullying and victimization on substance use among youth has received increasing attention. Bullying is a specific type of aggressive behavior that not only involves bullies and victims but also followers, who actively support or reinforce the bully defenders, who intervene to defend or assist the victim or outsiders who passively observe or ignore the bullying. Limited research to date has linked these five bullying role behaviors to substance use. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between each of the bullying role behaviors and adolescent alcohol and tobacco use. Participants were 1255 (748 female) students (Mage=15.3, age range: 13-17years) in Grades 9 (n=714) and 11 (n=541). Bullying role behaviors, alcohol and tobacco onset and intensity, and alcohol-related harms were assessed. Results revealed an association between pro-bullying behavior (bullying and following) and all substance use variables, and between defender behavior and smoking and alcohol-related harm. No relationship between victimization, or outsider behavior, and substance use was found after controlling for the other bullying roles. The findings highlight the complex relationship between bullying roles, alcohol and tobacco use and alcohol-related harm in adolescents.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 22-06-2018
Abstract: ental health and substance use disorders are the leading causes of global disability in children and youth. Both tend to first onset or escalate in adolescence and young adulthood, calling for effective prevention during this time. The Climate Schools Combined (CSC) study was the first trial of a Web-based combined universal approach, delivered through school classes, to prevent both mental health and substance use problems in adolescence. There is also limited evidence for the cost-effectiveness of school-based prevention programs. he aim of this protocol paper is to describe the CSC follow-up study, which aims to determine the long-term efficacy and cost-effectiveness of the CSC prevention program for depression, anxiety, and substance use (alcohol and cannabis use) up to 7 years post intervention. cluster randomized controlled trial (the CSC study) was conducted with 6411 participants aged approximately 13.5 years at baseline from 2014 to 2016. Participating schools were randomized to 1 of 4 conditions: (1) control (health education as usual), (2) Climate Substance Use (universal substance use prevention), (3) Climate Mental Health (universal mental health prevention), or (4) CSC (universal substance use and mental health prevention). It was hypothesized that the CSC program would be more effective than conditions (1) to (3) in reducing alcohol and cannabis use (and related harms), anxiety, and depression symptoms as well as increasing knowledge related to alcohol, cannabis, anxiety, and depression. This long-term study will invite follow-up participants to complete 3 additional Web-based assessments at approximately 5, 6, and 7 years post baseline using multiple sources of locator information already provided to the research team. The primary outcomes include alcohol and cannabis use (and related harms) and mental health symptoms. An economic evaluation of the program will also be conducted using both data linkage as well as self-report resource use and quality of life measures. Secondary outcomes include self-efficacy, social networks, peer substance use, emotion regulation, and perfectionism. Analyses will be conducted using multilevel mixed-effects models within an intention-to-treat framework. he CSC long-term follow-up study is funded from 2018 to 2022 by the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council (APP1143555). The first follow-up wave commences in August 2018, and the results are expected to be submitted for publication in 2022. his is the first study to provide a long-term evaluation of combined universal substance use and mental health prevention up to 7 years post intervention. Evidence of sustained benefits into early adulthood would provide a scalable, easy-to-implement prevention strategy with the potential for widespread dissemination to reduce the considerable harms, burden of disease, injury, and social costs associated with youth substance use and mental disorders. RR1-10.2196/11372
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2023
DOI: 10.1071/CH23086
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 16-01-2019
DOI: 10.2196/11482
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 14-04-2016
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2017
Abstract: This review aimed to identify free, high-quality, smoking cessation mobile applications (apps) that adhere to Australian smoking cessation treatment guidelines. A systematic search of smoking cessation apps was conducted using Google. The technical quality of relevant apps was rated using the Mobile Application Rating Scale. The content of apps identified as high quality was assessed for adherence to smoking cessation treatment guidelines. 112 relevant apps were identified. The majority were of poor technical quality and only six 'high-quality' apps were identified. These apps adhered to Australian treatment guidelines in part. The efficacy of two apps had been previously evaluated. In lieu of more substantial research in this area, it is suggested that the high-quality apps identified in this review may be more likely than other available apps to encourage smoking cessation. Implications for public health: Smoking cessation apps have the potential to address many barriers that prevent smoking cessation support being provided however few high-quality smoking cessation apps are currently available in Australia, very few have been evaluated and the app market is extremely volatile. More research to evaluate smoking cessation apps, and sustained funding for evidence-based apps, is needed.
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 13-04-2022
DOI: 10.1021/ACS.LANGMUIR.2C00396
Abstract: Historically, the irreversible reduction of aryldiazonium salts has provided a reliable method to modify surfaces, demonstrating a catalogue of suitable diazonium salts for targeted applications. This work expands the knowledge of diazonium salt chemistry to participate in surface electroinitiated emulsion polymerization (SEEP). The influence of concentration, electronic effects, and steric hindrance/regiochemistry of the diazonium salt initiator on the production of polymeric films is examined. The objective of this work is to determine if a polymer film can be tailored, controlling the thickness, density, and surface homogeneity using specific diazonium chemistry. The data presented herein demonstrate a significant difference in polymer films that can be achieved when selecting a variety of diazonium salts and vinylic monomers. A clear trend aligns with the electron-rich diazonium salt substitution providing the thickest films (up to 70.9 ± 17.8 nm) with increasing diazonium concentration and electron-withdrawing substitution achieving optimal homogeneity for the surface of the film at a 5 mM diazonium concentration.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 07-08-2019
Abstract: oung Australians (16-25 years) have the highest rates of past-month cannabis use in the world. Cannabis use increases the risk of alcohol and other drug disorders and depressive disorders, and has a robust dose-response association with psychotic experiences (PEs) and disorders. PEs are subthreshold positive psychotic symptoms, including delusions and hallucinations, which increase the risk of substance use, depressive or anxiety disorders, and psychotic disorders. Access to effective web-based early interventions targeting both cannabis use and PEs could reduce such risk in young people. he objective of this study is to determine the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of the i Keep it Real /i web-based program compared to an information-only control website among young cannabis users (16-25 years) with PEs. articipants are recruited online, and consenting in iduals meeting inclusion criteria (aged 16-25 years, who have used cannabis in the past month and experienced PEs in the past 3 months) are automatically randomized to either the i Keep it Real /i web-based program (n=249) or an information-only control website (n=249). Both websites are self-guided (fully automated). The baseline and follow-up assessments at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months are self-completed online. Primary outcome measures are weekly cannabis use, PEs, and the relative cost-effectiveness for quality-adjusted life years. Secondary outcomes include other substance use and related problems, PE-related distress, cannabis intoxication experiences, severity of cannabis dependence, depression/anxiety symptoms, suicidality, and mental well-being and functioning. ecruitment commenced in February 2019, and the results are expected to be submitted for publication in mid-2021. his study protocol describes a large randomized controlled trial of a new web-based program for young cannabis users experiencing PEs. If effective, the accessibility and scalability of i Keep it Real /i could help reduce growing public health concerns about the significant social, economic, and health impacts of cannabis use. ustralian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12618001107213 www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=374800 ERR1-10.2196/15803
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 11-10-2021
Abstract: Quantum chemical calculations have successfully predicted the stereoselectivities of many BINOL phosphoric acid catalyzed reactions over the past 10-15 years. Herein we report a contrasting ex le: a reaction for which standard quantum chemistry techniques have proven unexpectedly ineffective at explaining the stereoselectivity. The Nazarov cyclizations of a inyl ketone catalyzed by a BINOL phosphoric acid or H
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 04-2019
DOI: 10.1111/DAR.12920
Abstract: Many young people engage in risky partying behaviours and excessive alcohol use in the transition period following high school graduation. Despite this, there is limited longitudinal research on adolescents before and after school graduation and limited evaluation of interventions targeting these high-risk periods. The present study aims to address this gap in the literature by examining the impact of brief psychoeducation interventions on substance use, psychological distress and well-being during this important life transition. Participants were 334 high school leavers (53% female, M Significant time by group effects were found for problem drinking, F(2, 227) = 3.07, P < 0.05, and well-being, F(4, 439) = 3.54, P < 0.01. There was stability in problem drinking from baseline to follow-up for the psychoeducation groups but small increases in problem drinking for the control (d = 0.12). Both psychoeducation groups had improvements in well-being scores from baseline to post-Schoolies (d = 0.40 0.20), which were maintained across time. In contrast, the control condition showed a decrease in well-being scores from baseline to the post O-week follow-up (d = 0.15). Brief school-based psychoeducational interventions may result in small improvements in well-being, and possibly stabilise the trajectory of problematic drinking in high-risk environments.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 04-07-2018
Abstract: motion dysregulation increases the risk of depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. Music can help regulate emotions, and mobile phones provide constant access to it. The Music eScape mobile app teaches young people how to identify and manage emotions using music. his study aimed to examine the effects of using Music eScape on emotion regulation, distress, and well-being at 1, 2, 3, and 6 months. Moderators of outcomes and user ratings of app quality were also examined. randomized controlled trial compared immediate versus 1-month delayed access to Music eScape in 169 young people (aged 16 to 25 years) with at least mild levels of mental distress (Kessler 10 score ). o significant differences between immediate and delayed groups on emotion regulation, distress, or well-being were found at 1 month. Both groups achieved significant improvements in 5 of the 6 emotion regulation skills, mental distress, and well-being at 2, 3, and 6 months. Unhealthy music use moderated improvements on 3 emotion regulation skills. Users gave the app a high mean quality rating (mean 3.8 [SD 0.6]) out of 5. usic eScape has the potential to provide a highly accessible way of improving young people’s emotion regulation skills, but further testing is required to determine its efficacy. Targeting unhealthy music use in distressed young people may improve their emotion regulation skills. ustralian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12615000051549 www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=365974
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 21-09-2023
DOI: 10.1002/WCMS.1636
Abstract: Computational studies have delivered valuable mechanistic insights into thiol Michael additions, which are important CS bond‐forming reactions used in biological and materials chemistry. The field has delivered a wealth of understanding about the ways in which substituents, catalysts, and the local environment influence the addition pathway. Several mechanistic scenarios are now recognized, differing with respect to the energies and timing of the bond‐forming processes. While technical challenges still exist, the field has advanced to such an extent that full‐scale simulations of the additions of Michael acceptors to protein thiol groups are now possible. This article is categorized under: Structure and Mechanism Reaction Mechanisms and Catalysis
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 25-02-2015
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 06-10-2007
DOI: 10.2196/11372
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 23-03-2016
DOI: 10.1111/DAR.12394
Abstract: This study examines the association of alcohol and polydrug use with risky sexual behaviour in adolescents under 16 years of age and if this association differs by gender. The s le consisted of 5412 secondary school students under 16 years of age from Victoria, Australia. Participants completed an anonymous and confidential survey during class time. The key measures were having had sex before legal age of consent (16 years), unprotected sex before 16 (no condom) and latent-class derived alcohol and polydrug use variables based on alcohol, tobacco, cannabis, inhalants and other illegal drug use in the past month. There were 7.52% and 2.55% of adolescents who reported having sex and having unprotected sex before 16 years of age, respectively. After adjusting for antisocial behaviours, peers' drug use and family and school risk factors, girls were less likely to have unprotected sex (odds ratio = 0.31, P = 0.003). However, the interaction of being female and polydrug use (odds ratio = 4.52, P = 0.004) was significant, indicating that girls who engaged in polydrug use were at higher risk of having unprotected sex. For boys, the effect of polydrug use was non-significant (odds ratio = 1.44, P = 0.310). Discussion and Conclusions For girls, polydrug use was significantly associated with unprotected sex after adjusting for a range of risk factors, and this relationship was non-significant for boys. Future prevention programs for adolescent risky sexual behaviour and polydrug use might benefit from a tailored approach to gender differences. [Chan GCK, Kelly AB, Hides L, Quinn C, Williams JW. Does gender moderate the relationship between polydrug use and sexual risk-taking among Australian secondary school students under 16 years of age? Drug Alcohol Rev 2016 :750-754].
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 24-01-2011
DOI: 10.1111/J.1398-9995.2010.02534.X
Abstract: The origin of the epidemic of IgE-associated (allergic) diseases is unclear. MeDALL (Mechanisms of the Development of ALLergy), an FP7 European Union project (No. 264357), aims to generate novel knowledge on the mechanisms of initiation of allergy and to propose early diagnosis, prevention, and targets for therapy. A novel phenotype definition and an integrative translational approach are needed to understand how a network of molecular and environmental factors can lead to complex allergic diseases. A novel, stepwise, large-scale, and integrative approach will be led by a network of complementary experts in allergy, epidemiology, allergen biochemistry, immunology, molecular biology, epigenetics, functional genomics, bioinformatics, computational and systems biology. The following steps are proposed: (i) Identification of 'classical' and 'novel' phenotypes in existing birth cohorts (ii) Building discovery of the relevant mechanisms in IgE-associated allergic diseases in existing longitudinal birth cohorts and Karelian children (iii) Validation and redefinition of classical and novel phenotypes of IgE-associated allergic diseases and (iv) Translational integration of systems biology outcomes into health care, including societal aspects. MeDALL will lead to: (i) A better understanding of allergic phenotypes, thus expanding current knowledge of the genomic and environmental determinants of allergic diseases in an integrative way (ii) Novel diagnostic tools for the early diagnosis of allergy, targets for the development of novel treatment modalities, and prevention of allergic diseases (iii) Improving the health of European citizens as well as increasing the competitiveness and boosting the innovative capacity of Europe, while addressing global health issues and ethical issues.
Publisher: S. Karger AG
Date: 13-12-2012
DOI: 10.1159/000343018
Abstract: Long-term birth cohort studies are essential to understanding the life course and childhood predictors of allergy and the complex interplay between genes and the environment (including lifestyle and socioeconomic determinants). Over 100 cohorts focusing on asthma and allergy have been initiated in the world over the past 30 years. Since 2004, several research initiatives funded under the EU Framework Program for Research and Technological Development FP6-FP7 have attempted to identify, compare, and evaluate pooling data from existing European birth cohorts (GA sup /sup LEN: Global Allergy and European Network, FP6 ENRIECO: Environmental Health Risks in European Birth Cohorts, FP7 CHICOS: Developing a Child Cohort Research Strategy for Europe, FP7 MeDALL: Mechanisms of the Development of ALLergy, FP7). However, there is a general lack of knowledge about these initiatives and their potentials. The aim of this paper is to review current and past EU-funded projects in order to make a summary of their goals and achievements and to suggest future research needs of these European birth cohort networks.
Publisher: American Psychological Association (APA)
Date: 08-2019
DOI: 10.1037/ADB0000485
Abstract: Problem gambling causes significant harm to in iduals and society. Financial losses from gambling in Australia exceed those anywhere else in the world. Problem gamblers are overrepresented among substance users and rural and remote Australians. Limited research exists on the impact of gambling advertising on problem gambling among those seeking substance use treatment, in rural/remote areas, and protective factors that may guard against these impacts. This study examined whether self-efficacy to control gambling moderated the relationship between the perceived impact of gambling advertising and problem gambling in people seeking treatment for substance use. Participants (N = 198, 60% female) who had recently sought treatment for substance use from services in rural/remote areas of Queensland and New South Wales, Australia, completed an anonymous online survey. Problem gambling severity was measured by the Problem Gambling Severity Index, with 30% of participants showing at least moderate-risk problem gambling behaviors (12% moderate-risk gambling, 18% high-risk gambling). Moderated regression analyses found self-efficacy to control gambling significantly moderated the relationship between the perceived impacts of gambling advertising and the severity of problem gambling. At low levels of self-efficacy to control gambling, higher perceived impacts of advertising on gambling involvement and awareness were associated with higher levels of problem gambling behavior. However, at high levels of self-efficacy to control gambling, the association between problem gambling and impact of gambling advertising was weaker for involvement and not significant for awareness. Findings suggest that self-efficacy could be targeted as a treatment option to protect vulnerable groups from the effects of gambling advertising. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved).
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 02-08-2023
Abstract: The cytochrome P450 (CYP) superfamily of monooxygenase enzymes play important roles in the metabolism of molecules which contain heterocyclic, aromatic functional groups. Here we study how oxygen‐ and sulfur‐containing heterocyclic groups interact with and are oxidized using the bacterial enzyme CYP199A4. This enzyme oxidized both 4‐(thiophen‐2‐yl)benzoic acid and 4‐(thiophen‐3‐yl)benzoic acid almost exclusively via sulfoxidation. The thiophene oxides produced were activated towards Diels‐Alder dimerization after sulfoxidation, forming dimeric metabolites. Despite X‐ray crystal structures demonstrating that the aromatic carbon atoms of the thiophene ring were located closer to the heme than the sulfur, sulfoxidation was still favoured with 4‐(thiophen‐3‐yl)benzoic acid. These results highlight a preference of this cytochrome P450 enzyme for sulfoxidation over aromatic hydroxylation. Calculations predict a strong preference for homodimerization of the enantiomers of the thiophene oxides and the formation of a single major product, in broad agreement with the experimental data. 4‐(Furan‐2‐yl)benzoic acid was oxidized to 4‐(4′‐hydroxybutanoyl)benzoic acid using a whole‐cell system. This reaction proceeded via a γ‐keto‐α,β‐unsaturated aldehyde species which could be trapped in vitro using semicarbazide to generate a pyridazine species. The combination of the enzyme structures, the biochemical data and theoretical calculations provides detailed insight into the formation of the metabolites formed from these heterocyclic compounds.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-10-2016
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 20-11-2018
DOI: 10.1111/ADD.14469
Abstract: (1) To classify Australian adolescents according to their alcohol consumption trajectories and (2) to assess the direct and interactive effects of perceived peer drinking (PPD) and personality on adolescent drinking. Prospective cohort study comprising secondary analysis of six waves of prospective data (collected between 2014 and 2016) from the control arm of the Climate Schools Combined Study. Nineteen schools across three Australian states. A total of 1492 socio-demographically erse students (mean age at baseline: 13.47 68% female 82% born in Australia). Alcohol consumption trajectories were assessed using self-reported sipping of alcohol, full standard drink consumption, binge drinking and quantity and frequency of alcohol consumption. One item assessed PPD and personality was assessed using the Substance Use Risk Profile Scale. Eight hundred and sixty-four (58%) adolescents consumed alcohol across the study period. Four drinking trajectories were identified: abstaining (n = 513 reference group) onset (n = 361 initiated after baseline) persistent (n = 531 initiated prior to baseline) and decreasing (n = 50 consumed alcohol at baseline but ceased or decreased thereafter). A significant PPD × anxiety sensitivity (AS) interaction affected probability of belonging to the onset (P < 0.001) and persistent (P = 0.003) trajectories. The effect of PPD on probability of belonging to the onset trajectory was only significant when adolescents reported low [95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.464-2.646, P < 0.001], but not high AS. The effect of PPD on probability of belonging to the persistent drinking trajectory was stronger at low (95% CI = 2.144-3.283, P < 0.001), compared with high (95% CI = 1.440-2.308, P < 0.001) AS. In Australian adolescents, self-reported drinking onset and persistent drinking appear to be more strongly associated with perceived peer drinking in those with low anxiety sensitivity than those with high anxiety sensitivity.
Publisher: American Psychological Association (APA)
Date: 03-2018
DOI: 10.1037/ADB0000322
Abstract: Early adolescent drinking has been identified as an important risk factor for the development of alcohol dependence. Both perceived peer drinking and personality profiles have been implicated as risk factors for early adolescent drinking. However, research is yet to determine how these 2 factors may interact to increase such risk. This study aimed to determine whether personality profiles moderated the relationship between perceived peer drinking and early adolescent drinking. Baseline data were utilized in the analyses, from 3,287 adolescents (M
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 09-05-2019
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2019
Publisher: Alcohol Research Documentation, Inc.
Date: 2020
Publisher: Project MUSE
Date: 2015
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCHRES.2017.01.048
Abstract: To develop and validate a short form of the Cannabis Experiences Questionnaire - Intoxication Effects (CEQ-I), a 42-item scale which measures the euphoric and paranoid-dysphoric effects of cannabis intoxication. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were conducted among 604 past-month cannabis users to develop the short form. The factor structure was replicated in a second s le of 146 past-month cannabis users. The concurrent validity of the scale was also examined. Consistent with previous research, two factors were identified (paranoid-dysphoric euphoric), and were replicated with confirmatory factor analyses. The most parsimonious scale consisted of 13 items. Correlations of short-form subscales with corresponding original subscales were high. The paranoid-dysphoric subscale was also moderately positively correlated with measures of psychotic-like experiences (PLEs) and psychological distress. The revised and validated CEQ-I short form can be used to explore the euphoric and paranoid-dysphoric effects of cannabis intoxication in young cannabis users, and whether these experiences increase their risk of developing cannabis use and psychotic disorders. The CEQ-I short form has the potential to aid in the identification of young cannabis users at risk of the paranoid-dysphoric effects of cannabis intoxication and may assist in the development of early intervention strategies targeting cannabis users with PLEs.
Publisher: Routledge
Date: 06-12-2017
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2023
DOI: 10.1016/J.JINORGBIO.2022.112064
Abstract: We report the synthesis of a new asymmetric heptadentate ligand based on the 1,3-diaminopropan-2-ol backbone. The ligand 3-[[3-(bis-pyridin-2-ylmethyl-amino)-2-hydroxy-propyl]-(2-carbamoyl-ethyl)-amino]-propionamide (HL1) contains two amide and two pyridine groups attached to the 1,3-diaminopropan-2-ol core. Reaction between HL1 and Zn(ClO
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 06-10-2022
Abstract: The cytochrome P450 (CYP) family of heme monooxygenases catalyse the selective oxidation of C-H bonds under ambient conditions. The CYP199A4 enzyme from Rhodopseudomonas palustris catalyses aliphatic oxidation of 4-cyclohexylbenzoic acid but not the aromatic oxidation of 4-phenylbenzoic acid, due to the distinct mechanisms of aliphatic and aromatic oxidation. The aromatic substrates 4-benzyl-, 4-phenoxy- and 4-benzoyl-benzoic acid and methoxy-substituted phenylbenzoic acids were assessed to see if they could achieve an orientation more amenable to aromatic oxidation. CYP199A4 could catalyse the efficient benzylic oxidation of 4-benzylbenzoic acid. The methoxy-substituted phenylbenzoic acids were oxidatively demethylated with low activity. However, no aromatic oxidation was observed with any of these substrates. Crystal structures of CYP199A4 with 4-(3'-methoxyphenyl)benzoic acid demonstrated that the substrate binding mode was like that of 4-phenylbenzoic acid. 4-Phenoxy- and 4-benzoyl-benzoic acid bound with the ether or ketone oxygen atom hydrogen-bonded to the heme aqua ligand. We also investigated whether the substitution of phenylalanine residues in the active site could permit aromatic hydroxylation. Mutagenesis of the F298 residue to a valine did not significantly alter the substrate binding position or enable the aromatic oxidation of 4-phenylbenzoic acid however the F182L mutant was able to catalyse 4-phenylbenzoic acid oxidation generating 2'-hydroxy-, 3'-hydroxy- and 4'-hydroxy metabolites in a 83 : 9 : 8 ratio, respectively. Molecular dynamics simulations, in which the distance and angle of attack were considered, demonstrated that in the F182L variant, in contrast to the wild-type enzyme, the phenyl ring of 4-phenylbenzoic acid attained a productive geometry for aromatic oxidation to occur.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-04-2022
Abstract: Hyperfluorescent organic light‐emitting diodes (HF‐OLEDs) enable a cascading Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) from a suitable thermally activated delayed fluorescent (TADF) assistant host to a fluorescent end‐emitter to give efficient OLEDs with relatively narrowed electroluminescence compared to TADF‐OLEDs. Efficient HF‐OLEDs require optimal FRET with minimum triplet diffusion via Dexter‐type energy transfer (DET) from the TADF assistant host to the fluorescent end‐emitter. To hinder DET, steric protection of the end‐emitters has been proposed to disrupt triplet energy transfer. In this work, the first HF‐OLEDs based on structurally well‐defined macromolecules, dendrimers is reported. The dendrimers contain new highly twisted dendrons attached to a Cibalackrot core, resulting in high solubility in organic solvents. HF‐OLEDs based on dendrimer blend films are fabricated to show external quantum efficiencies of % at 100 cd m −2 . Importantly, dendronization with the bulky dendrons is found to have no negative impact to the FRET efficiency, indicating the excellent potential of the dendritic macromolecular motifs for HF‐OLEDs. To fully prevent the undesired triplet diffusion, Cibalackrot dendrimers HF‐OLEDs are expected to be further improved by adding additional dendrons to the Cibalackrot core and / or increasing dendrimer generations.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.DRUGALCDEP.2019.03.031
Abstract: Residential treatment is a standard treatment for in iduals with severe and complex substance use problems. However, there is limited evidence on best practice approaches to treatment in these settings. This review provides a comprehensive update on the evidence base for residential treatment, and directions for future research and clinical practice. A systematic review of all studies published between January 2013 and December 2018 was conducted. Public health and psychology databases (Medline, CINAHL, PsycARTICLES and PsycINFO) were systematically searched, and forward and backward snowballing were used to identify additional studies. Studies were included if they were quantitative, assessed the effectiveness of residential substance treatment programs for adults, were published in the English language and in peer-reviewed journals. The Effective Public Health Practice Project's Quality Assessment Tool for Quantitative Studies was used to assess methodological quality. Our search identified 23 studies. Eight were rated as methodologically strong, five as moderate and ten rated as weak. Quality ratings were impacted by attrition at follow-up and research design. Despite limitations, results provide moderate quality evidence for the effectiveness of residential treatment in improving outcomes across a number of substance use and life domains. With caution, results suggest that best practice rehabilitation treatment integrates mental health treatment and provides continuity of care post-discharge. Future research and practice should focus on better collection of outcome data and conducting data linkage of key health, welfare and justice agency administrative data to enhance understanding of risk and recovery trajectories.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 06-04-2018
DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2018.1455703
Abstract: To assess gender differences in the relationship between eating and weight loss attitudes (EWAs), and 30-day tobacco and alcohol use among adolescents, while controlling for potential confounds (age, country of birth, psychological distress, pubertal development, peer alcohol and tobacco use, and sexual activity). School students aged between 11 and 17 years (N = 10,273) from high schools in the State of Victoria (Australia) completed surveys in class under conditions of anonymity and confidentiality. The interaction between EWAs and gender was significant for tobacco use but not for alcohol use, indicating that the effect of EWAs on tobacco use, but not alcohol use, vary by gender. Tobacco use was related to EWAs in adolescent females but not males, and this is consistent with the possibility that females use tobacco in an instrumental fashion to control weight. Implications and Contribution: Female adolescents high in eating and weight loss attitudes were more likely to engage in tobacco use. In contrast, eating and weight loss attitudes were not related to male tobacco use. These results point to the potential importance of developing gender-specific approaches towards addressing problematic behaviors in adolescent populations.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-08-2021
DOI: 10.1111/ADD.15146
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 26-11-2019
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 08-10-2016
DOI: 10.1111/JRH.12151
Abstract: Alcohol use is more prevalent in rural than urban areas in adult populations. Few studies have focused on adolescent drinking. This study investigated if adolescents in regional and rural areas of Australia were more likely to drink alcohol and if there were differences in parental drinking and alcohol supply across regions. A subs le from the National Drug Strategy Household Survey 2013, the largest nationally representative household survey on drug use in Australia, was used for this study. Participants who were aged 12-17 (N = 1,159) and participants who indicated they were parents or guardians of a dependent child (N = 7,059) were included in the analyses. Key measures were adolescent and parental alcohol use, parental supply of alcohol, and drinking location. Compared to those living in major cities, adolescents from inner regional and rural areas were at 85% and 121% higher odds, respectively, of obtaining their first alcohol from parents, and at 131% and 287% higher odds of currently obtaining their alcohol from their parents. Those from rural areas were at 126% higher odds of drinking in the past 12 months. Parents from inner regional and rural areas were at 45% and 63% higher odds, respectively, of heavy drinking at 27% and 52% higher odds of weekly drinking and at 26% and 37% higher odds of drinking at home. Adolescents from rural areas were at higher risk of alcohol use. Parents in rural areas were more likely to use alcohol in ways that encourage adolescent drinking.
Publisher: Emerald
Date: 02-07-2016
Abstract: This paper explores the background principles, theories, and components of the QuikFix intervention for primary and comorbid substance use in young people. QuikFix is a brief Motivational Interviewing (MI) intervention utilising cognitive-behavioural coping skills training to reduce vulnerability to substance use and comorbid mental health problems in young people. It is delivered in two to three brief sessions including an assessment. A new version, QuikFix PI (Personality Intervention) which incorporates coping skills training targeting, sensation seeking, impulsive, depressive and anxiety personality styles that may underlie primary and comorbid substance use problems is presented. The original QuikFix intervention has demonstrated efficacy in young alcohol and cannabis users with comorbid depression and anxiety symptoms. The efficacy of the new personality targeted version of QuikFix is currently being tested in a large randomized controlled trial among young people with alcohol related injuries/illnesses. Future research is required to determine the efficacy of QuikFix PI in comorbid populations including those with behavioural disorders. QuikFix interventions can be delivered via telephone or face-to-face in clinical settings for clients with primary substance use and comorbid depression and anxiety symptoms. This paper describes a novel two to three session manualised personality targeted substance use intervention. The full original QuikFix treatment manual is available online (Hides and Carroll 2010).
Publisher: Routledge
Date: 31-03-2016
Publisher: Georg Thieme Verlag KG
Date: 07-08-2023
DOI: 10.1055/A-2149-4586
Abstract: The fluorine-directing effect has so far been exploited to provide short and efficient synthetic routes to rare L-ido sugars. However, the importance of anomeric configuration to its success has remained experimentally unverified. We now report on the synthesis of α- and β-configured per-O-benzoylated mannopyranosyl fluorides and initially show that their reactivity towards photo-bromination is strongly dependent on the anomeric configuration. The stereochemical basis of the fluorine-directing effect is then validated by revealing the striking difference in stereoselectivity observed for the free radical reductions of the isolated 5-C-bromo sugars. This work importantly provides a synthetic route to a donor-functionalised derivative of L-gulose and reveals new insights into the behaviour of glycosyl radicals.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 26-09-2019
DOI: 10.2196/15391
Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)
Date: 06-01-2022
Publisher: Emerald
Date: 12-06-2017
DOI: 10.1108/JCRPP-01-2017-0002
Abstract: Significant alcohol use increases the risk of injuries and violence in young people. The purpose of this paper is to examine factors associated with receiving street service care for alcohol intoxication, alcohol-related injury or violence among young people in a night-time economy (NTE). Participants included 217 young adults, 135 of whom required street service care on a Friday or Saturday evening in an Australian entertainment district. The remaining 88 young adults were a matched control s le. Participants were surveyed and provided a breathalyser s le. A multinomial logistic regression was conducted to examine the relationship between blood alcohol content (BAC) level, subjective intoxication, gender, illicit drug use, age, preloading, total drinks consumed, and the receipt of care for intoxication, injury, or violence. Of those who received care, 70.4 per cent received it for intoxication, 19.3 per cent for injury, and 10.3 per cent following a violent incident. Male gender and high BAC level were associated with receiving support following a violent incident. High-subjective intoxication and female gender were associated with receiving support for injury. Results demonstrate the factors associated with receiving street service care for young people in the NTE experiencing non-emergent health needs. Further research is required to examine the impact of such a service on crime, injuries, and frontline service resources. This is the first study to examine factors associated with receiving street service care for alcohol intoxication, injury, or violence in a NTE. Results inform policy and practice relating to the provision of street service care in the NTE for non-emergent health problems, and how this interrelates with other frontline services.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 29-08-2015
DOI: 10.1007/S10964-015-0345-6
Abstract: Moral disengagement is a social cognitive process that has been extensively applied to transgressive behaviors, including delinquency, aggression and illicit substance use. However, there has been limited research on moral disengagement as it relates to underage drinking. The current study aimed to examine moral disengagement contextualized to underage drinking and its longitudinal relationship to alcohol use. Moreover, the social context in which adolescent alcohol use typically occurs was also considered, with a specific emphasis on the social sanctions, or social outcomes, that adolescents anticipate receiving from friends for their alcohol use. Adolescents were assessed across three time-points, 8 months apart. The longitudinal s le consisted of 382 (46% female) underage drinkers (12-16 years at T1). Parallel latent growth curve analysis was used to examine the bi-directional influence of initial moral disengagement, anticipated social outcomes, and alcohol use on subsequent growth in moral disengagement, anticipated social outcomes and alcohol use. The interrelation of initial scores and growth curves was also assessed. The findings revealed that, in the binary parallel analyses, initial moral disengagement and anticipated social outcomes both significantly predicted changes in alcohol use across time. Moreover, initial anticipated social outcomes predicted changes in moral disengagement. These findings were not consistently found when all three process analyses were included in a single model. The results emphasize the impact of social context on moral disengagement and suggest that by targeting adolescents' propensity to justify or excuse their drinking, as well as the social outcomes adolescents anticipate for being drunk, it may be possible to reduce their underage drinking.
Location: Australia
No related grants have been discovered for Catherine Quinn.