ORCID Profile
0000-0002-6806-6503
Current Organisations
Queensland University of Technology
,
University of the Sunshine Coast
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Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 10-07-2018
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.ADDBEH.2016.05.008
Abstract: Impulsivity predicts alcohol misuse and risk for alcohol use disorder. Cognition mediates much of this association. Genes also account for a large amount of variance in alcohol misuse, with dopamine and serotonin receptor genes of particular interest, because of their role in motivated behavior. The precise psychological mechanisms through which such genes confer risk is unclear. Trait impulsivity conveys risk for alcohol misuse by influencing two distinct domains of cognition: beliefs about the reinforcing effects of alcohol consumption (positive alcohol expectancy) and the perceived ability to resist it (drinking refusal self-efficacy). This study investigated the effect of the dopamine-related polymorphism in the DRD2/ANKK1 gene (rs1800497) and a serotonin-related polymorphism in the HTR2A gene (rs6313) on associations between impulsivity, cognition, and alcohol misuse in 120 emerging adults (18-21years). HTR2A predicted lower positive alcohol expectancy, higher refusal self-efficacy, and lower alcohol misuse. However, neither polymorphism moderated the linkages between impulsivity, cognition, and alcohol misuse. This is the first report of an association between HTR2A and alcohol-related cognition. Theoretically-driven biopsychosocial models have potential to elucidate the specific cognitive mechanisms through which distal risk factors like genes and temperament affect alcohol misuse in emerging adulthood.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-2003
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 23-06-2021
DOI: 10.3389/FNINS.2021.678503
Abstract: Growing research suggests that posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may be a risk factor for poor cardiovascular health, and yet our understanding of who might be at greatest risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes after trauma is limited. In this study, we conducted the first examination of the in idual and synergistic contributions of PTSD symptoms and blood pressure genetics to continuous blood pressure levels. We harnessed the power of the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium-PTSD Physical Health Working Group and investigated these associations across 11 studies of 72,224 trauma-exposed in iduals of European ( n = 70,870) and African ( n = 1,354) ancestry. Genetic contributions to blood pressure were modeled via polygenic scores (PGS) for systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) that were derived from a prior trans-ethnic blood pressure genome-wide association study (GWAS). Results of trans-ethnic meta-analyses revealed significant main effects of the PGS on blood pressure levels [SBP: β = 2.83, standard error (SE) = 0.06, p & 1E-20 DBP: β = 1.32, SE = 0.04, p & 1E-20]. Significant main effects of PTSD symptoms were also detected for SBP and DBP in trans-ethnic meta-analyses, though there was significant heterogeneity in these results. When including data from the largest contributing study – United Kingdom Biobank – PTSD symptoms were negatively associated with SBP levels (β = −1.46, SE = 0.44, p = 9.8E-4) and positively associated with DBP levels (β = 0.70, SE = 0.26, p = 8.1E-3). However, when excluding the United Kingdom Biobank cohort in trans-ethnic meta-analyses, there was a nominally significant positive association between PTSD symptoms and SBP levels (β = 2.81, SE = 1.13, p = 0.01) no significant association was observed for DBP (β = 0.43, SE = 0.78, p = 0.58). Blood pressure PGS did not significantly moderate the associations between PTSD symptoms and blood pressure levels in meta-analyses. Additional research is needed to better understand the extent to which PTSD is associated with high blood pressure and how genetic as well as contextual factors may play a role in influencing cardiovascular risk.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 30-09-2010
DOI: 10.1007/S10545-010-9211-6
Abstract: Investigations into the biochemical markers associated with executive function (EF) impairment in children with early and continuously treated phenylketonuria (ECT-PKU) remain largely phenylalanine-only focused, despite experimental data showing that a high phenylalanine:tyrosine (phe:tyr) ratio is more strongly associated with EF deficit than phe alone. A high phe:tyr ratio is hypothesized to lead to a reduction in dopamine synthesis within the brain, which in turn results in the development of EF impairment. This paper provides a snapshot of current practice in the monitoring and/or treatment of tyrosine levels in children with PKU, across 12 countries from Australasia, North America and Europe. Tyrosine monitoring in this population has increased over the last 5 years, with over 80% of clinics surveyed reporting routine monitoring of tyrosine levels in infancy alongside phe levels. Twenty-five percent of clinics surveyed reported actively treating/managing tyrosine levels (with supplemental tyrosine above that contained in PKU formulas) to ensure tyrosine levels remain within normal ranges. Anecdotally, supplemental tyrosine has been reported to ameliorate symptoms of both attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and depression in this population. EF assessment of children with ECT-PKU was likewise highly variable, with 50% of clinics surveyed reporting routine assessments of intellectual function. However when function was assessed, test instruments chosen tended towards global measures of IQ prior to school entry, rather than specific assessment of EF development. Further investigation of the role of tyrosine and its relationship with phe and EF development is needed to establish whether routine tyrosine monitoring and increased supplementation is recommended.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2001
DOI: 10.1016/S0165-1781(01)00296-7
Abstract: GABAergic systems have been implicated in the pathogenesis of anxiety, depression and insomnia. These symptoms are part of the core and comorbid psychiatric disturbances in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In a s le of Caucasian male PTSD patients, dinucleotide repeat polymorphisms of the GABA(A) receptor beta 3 subunit gene were compared to scores on the General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ). As the major allele at this gene locus (GABRB3) was G1, the alleles were ided into G1 and non-G1 groups. On the total score of the GHQ, which comprises the somatic symptoms, anxiety/insomnia, social dysfunction and depression subscales, patients with the G1 non-G1 genotype had a significantly higher score when compared to either the G1G1 genotype (alpha=0.01) or the non-G1 non-G1 genotype (alpha=0.05). No significant difference was found between the G1G1 and non-G1 non-G1 genotypes. When the G1 non-G1 heterozygotes were compared to the combined G1G1 and non-G1 non-G1 homozygotes, a significantly higher total GHQ score was found in the heterozygotes (P=0.002). These observations suggest a heterosis effect. Further analysis of GHQ subscale scores showed that heterozygotes compared to the combined homozygotes had higher scores on the somatic symptoms (P=0.006), anxiety/insomnia (P=0.003), social dysfunction (P=0.054) and depression (P=0.004) subscales. In conclusion, the present study indicates that in a population of PTSD patients, heterozygosity of the GABRB3 major (G1) allele confers higher levels of somatic symptoms, anxiety/insomnia, social dysfunction and depression than found in homozygosity.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2014.12.025
Abstract: To evaluate the effectiveness of a single-session online theory of planned behaviour (TPB)-based intervention to improve sun-protective attitudes and behaviour among Australian adults. Australian adults (N=534 38.7% males Mage=39.3 years) from major cities (80.9%), regional (17.6%) and remote areas (1.5%) were recruited and randomly allocated to an intervention (N=265) and information only group (N=267). The online intervention focused on fostering positive attitudes, perceptions of normative support, and control perceptions for sun protection. Participants completed questionnaires assessing standard TPB measures (attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioural control, intention, behaviour) and extended TPB constructs of group norm (friends, family), personal norm, and image norm, pre-intervention (Time 1) and one week (Time 2) and one month post-intervention (Time 3). Repeated Measures Multivariate Analysis of Variance tested intervention effects across time. Intervention participants reported more positive attitudes towards sun protection and used sun-protective measures more often in the subsequent month than participants receiving information only. The intervention effects on control perceptions and norms were non-significant. A theory-based online intervention fostering more favourable attitudes towards sun safety can increase sun protection attitudes and self-reported behaviour among Australian adults in the short term.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2005
DOI: 10.1081/JA-200030723
Abstract: The measurement of alcohol "craving" began with single-item scales. Multifactorial scales developed with the intention to capture more fully the phenomenon of craving. This study examines the construct validity of a multifactorial scale, the Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale for heavy drinking (Y-BOCS-hd). The study compares its clinical utility with a single item visual-analogue craving scale. The study includes 212 alcohol dependent subjects (127 males, 75 females) undertaking an outpatient treatment program between 1999-2001. Subjects completed the Y-BOCS-hd and a single item visual-analogue scale, in addition to alcohol consumption and dependence severity measures. The Y-BOCS-hd had strong construct validity. Both the visual-analogue alcohol craving scale and Y-BOCS-hd were weakly associated with pretreatment dependence severity. There was a significant association between pretreatment alcohol consumption and the visual-analogue craving scale. Neither craving measure was able to predict total program abstinence or days abstinent. The relationship between obsessive-compulsive behavior in alcohol dependence and craving remains unclear.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2007
DOI: 10.1080/10826080701658125
Abstract: With few exceptions, research in the addictive sciences has relied on linear statistics and methodologies. Addiction involves a complex array of nonlinear behaviors. This study applies two machine learning techniques, Bayesian and decision tree classifiers, in the assessment of outcome of an alcohol dependence treatment program. These nonlinear approaches are compared to a standard linear analysis. Seventy-three alcohol-dependent subjects undertaking a 12-week cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) program and 66 subjects undertaking an identical program but also prescribed the relapse prevention agent Ac rosate were employed in this study. Demographic, alcohol use, dependence severity, craving, health-related quality of life, and psychological measures at baseline were used to predict abstinence at 12 weeks. Decision trees had a 77% predictive accuracy across both data sets, Bayesian networks 73%, and discriminant analysis 42%. Combined with clinical experience, machine learning approaches offer promise in understanding the complex relationships that underlie treatment outcome for abstinence-based alcohol treatment programs.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2020
Publisher: Royal College of Psychiatrists
Date: 08-2006
DOI: 10.1192/BJP.BP.105.014308
Abstract: Cannabis use appears to exacerbate psychotic symptoms and increase risk of psychotic relapse. However, the relative contribution of cannabis use compared with other risk factors is unclear. The influence of psychotic symptoms on cannabis use has received little attention. To examine the influence of cannabis use on psychotic symptom relapse and the influence of psychotic symptom severity on relapse in cannabis use in the 6 months following hospital admission. At baseline, 84 participants with recent-onset psychosis were assessed and 81 were followed up weekly for 6 months, using telephone and face-to-face interviews. A higher frequency of cannabis use was predictive of psychotic relapse, after controlling for medication adherence, other substance use and duration of untreated psychosis. An increase in psychotic symptoms was predictive of relapse to cannabis use, and medication adherence reduced cannabis relapse risk. The relationship between cannabis use and psychosis may be bidirectional, highlighting the need for early intervention programmes to target cannabis use and psychotic symptom severity in this population.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 2016
DOI: 10.1155/2016/6979435
Abstract: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating condition that develops in some people after exposure to a traumatic event. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor ( BDNF ) is highly expressed in the mammalian brain and is thought to be involved in learning and memory processes. A nonsynonymous polymorphism in the BDNF gene, rs6265 (Val66Met), has been hypothesised to be associated with PTSD. Association studies examining the Val66Met polymorphism and PTSD have been inconclusive, likely due to the variability in type of trauma exposure analysed. Vietnam veterans ( n = 257 ) screened for PTSD and controlled for trauma exposure were genotyped for BDNF Val66Met. The association was not significant so we incorporated our data into a meta-analysis to obtain greater statistical power. A comprehensive search of more than 1237 articles revealed eight additional studies suitable for meta-analysis ( n = 3625 ). A random-effects meta-analysis observed a potential protective factor of the Val/Val genotype. After removing two studies with violation of Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, findings for the Val/Val genotype reached significance. Subgroup analyses confirmed a trend for this finding. Limitations of some studies that inform this meta-analysis include poorly screened controls and a lack of examination of population stratification. Effectively designed studies should inform this line of research in the future.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.JSAT.2010.08.003
Abstract: This study examines if outcome expectancies (perceived consequences of engaging in certain behavior) and self-efficacy expectancies (confidence in personal capacity to regulate behavior) contribute to treatment outcome for alcohol dependence. Few clinical studies have examined these constructs. The Drinking Expectancy Profile (DEP), a psychometric measure of alcohol expectancy and drinking refusal self-efficacy, was administered to 298 alcohol-dependent patients (207 males) at assessment and on completion of a 12-week cognitive-behavioral therapy alcohol abstinence program. Baseline measures of expectancy and self-efficacy were not strong predictors of outcome. However, for the 164 patients who completed treatment, all alcohol expectancy and self-efficacy factors of the DEP showed change over time. The DEP scores approximated community norms at the end of treatment. Discriminant analysis indicated that change in social pressure drinking refusal self-efficacy, sexual enhancement expectancies, and assertion expectancies successfully discriminated those who successfully completed treatment from those who did not. Future research should examine the basis of expectancies related to social functioning as a possible mechanism of treatment response and a means to enhance treatment outcome.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.PSYCHRES.2017.11.069
Abstract: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating psychiatric disorder with decreased general health prognosis and increased mortality. Inflammation has been hypothesised to be a link between PTSD and the most common co-morbid medical disorders. However, the relationship between inflammation and PTSD is not clear. In idual inflammatory markers have shown variable associations with PTSD. This study investigates the correlations between serum cytokines, PTSD and resilience in a cohort of Caucasian Vietnam combat veterans (n = 299). After correction for multiple testing, PTSD severity was correlated with small but significant decreases in interleukin 6 and interferon γ (p = 0.004, p = 0.013, respectively) whereas resilience was correlated with increased levels of interleukin 6 and interferon γ (p = 0.023 p = 0.007, respectively). Analyses of sub-symptoms of PTSD revealed that mood and arousal symptoms showed the most significant effect on interleukin 6 and interferon γ. More research is needed to further elucidate the mechanisms underlying the relationship between cytokine levels, PTSD sub-symptoms and trauma outcomes to improve the knowledge base of differences in trauma response and the biological system.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.GENE.2017.04.048
Abstract: The nitric oxide pathway in the hippoc us is involved in the biological stress response with detrimental consequences to cells and HPA axis feedback. Hippoc al atrophy and HPA axis feedback dysfunction are associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This study systematically investigates two genes of the nitric oxide pathway NOS1AP and NOS1 for a potential involvement in PTSD, comorbidities and resilience. A cohort of age and gender matched Vietnam veterans including trauma-exposed cases and controls was recruited and comprehensively assessed (n=299). A total of 49 NOS1AP and 16 NOS1 polymorphisms were analysed and genotypes correlated with gold standard clinical measures to assess PTSD severity and related phenotypes (depression, anxiety, stress, resilience) based on diagnostic status. Multiple NOS1AP polymorphisms were associated across all measures, and NOS1 polymorphisms were associated with PTSD severity, stress and resilience. The GG genotype of NOS1 polymorphism rs10744891 was associated with PTSD severity (surviving multiple correction) while the combined TT-TG genotypes were associated with resilience (p=0.005 p=0.033, respectively). This study indicates that NOS1AP and NOS1 from the nitric oxide pathway are likely to play a key role in PTSD, its comorbidities and resilience. Given the essential role of NOS1AP and NOS1 in stress response they may be reliable targets for screening and intervention strategies.
Publisher: University of Toronto Press Inc. (UTPress)
Date: 05-2020
Abstract: Introduction: The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed. DSM–5) brought a change to the symptom clusters of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In line with the DSM–5 changes, an updated version of the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS–5) was released. The CAPS–5 is considered to be the gold-standard measure of PTSD however, examinations of the psychometric properties and optimal factor structure of this scale are underrepresented in PTSD studies. Methods: This study used confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to assess the factor structure of the CAPS–5 using a s le of 267 male Australian Vietnam Veterans. Models drawn from the PTSD CFA literature were used to test the underlying dimensions of PTSD: the four-factor DSM–5 model, six-factor externalizing behaviour and anhedonia models, and seven-factor hybrid model. Results: The results found that the DSM–5 model showed slightly less than adequate fit (comparative fit index [CFI] = 0.90, Tucker–Lewis index [TLI] = 0.88, root mean square error of approximation [RMSEA] = 0.064), however, other models showed acceptable fit. The anhedonia model provided a significantly better fit than the other models (CFI = 0.92, TLI = 0.90, RMSEA = 0.059). Discussion: Overall, the results supported the anhedonia model. This result may indicate that the underlying dimensions of PTSD in Australian Vietnam Veterans may best be represented by six distinct factors.
Publisher: Elsevier
Date: 2013
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 04-09-2017
DOI: 10.1038/S41537-017-0026-4
Abstract: Epigenetic aging is associated with several biological mechanisms and diseases. We assessed two brain data sets, one small ( n = 48) and one large ( n = 392), to test epigenetic aging in schizophrenia. DNA methylation age from frontal cortex was significantly correlated with chronological age but no significant differences in DNA methylation age acceleration between schizophrenia cases and controls were observed in both data sets. Our results were consistent with a previous study investigating schizophrenia and epigenetic aging in superior temporal gyrus. Future studies targeting different brain regions and defined cell types are warranted to further investigate accelerated brain aging in schizophrenia.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 27-07-2011
DOI: 10.3109/10826084.2011.599096
Abstract: A measure of perceived reinforcement associated with amyl nitrite was developed and evaluated among gay and bisexual men. This is the first known expectancy measure to date for this drug class. The Amyl Nitrite Expectancy Questionnaire for Men who have Sex with Men (AEQ-MSM) was completed online by 102 gay and bisexual men, between 2006 and 2008 in Queensland, Australia. The AEQ-MSM demonstrated good psychometric properties and was associated with consumption patterns. Factor analysis revealed three distinct reinforcement domains: "Enhanced sexual desire and pleasure," "Disorientation," and "Sexual negotiation." Limitations include s ling via self-selection, recruitment through health centers and self-report data. Implications for sexual activity and risk-taking, including reducing associated harm (e.g., HIV transmission), and future directions are discussed.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2005
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCHRES.2004.08.020
Abstract: The T allele of the human dopamine D2 receptor (DRD2) gene C957T polymorphism is associated with reduced mRNA translation and stability. This results in decreased dopamine induced DRD2 upregulation and decreased in vivo D2 dopamine binding. Conversely, the C allele of the C957T polymorphism is not associated with such changes in mRNA leading to increased DRD2 expression. PET and postmortem binding studies show that schizophrenia is often associated with increased DRD2 availability. We report that on the basis of comparing the frequencies of the C/C and T/T genotypes of 153 patients with schizophrenia and 148 controls that schizophrenia is associated with the C/C genotype. The C957T shows a population attributable risk for schizophrenia of 24% and an attributable risk in those with schizophrenia of 42%. Increased expression of D2 receptors associated with the C allele is likely to be important in the underlying pathophysiology of at least some forms of schizophrenia. Enhanced understanding of schizophrenia afforded by this finding may lead to advances in treatment and prevention.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 08-2014
DOI: 10.1111/AP.12054
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 13-05-2011
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-2005
DOI: 10.1002/CBM.26
Abstract: Use of cannabis and other mind-altering drugs may be associated with violence or other offending behaviours. In many countries mere possession of the drug may be sufficient to lead to a criminal conviction and, therefore, a criminal record. Recent legal and policy reforms in Australia have led to development of cannabis ersion programmes. To describe substance misuse patterns and health perception in a consecutive series of young people in Queensland who were spared a criminal record because of a cannabis ersion scheme. Between 9 July 2001 and 24 August 2004, 640 men and 187 women were erted through the Queensland Illicit Drug Diversion Initiative (QIDDI) for treatment at a hospital alcohol and drug service. In this cross-sectional study of their drug use history, participants also completed the Severity of Dependence Scale (SDS) for cannabis and the General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28). Almost 60% of participants were cannabis dependent (as determined by the SDS). Polysubstance use was also more prevalent amongst dependent participants. Self-reported health (GHQ-28) was poorer than expected from Australian normative data, and worse if participants were cannabis dependent. Applying the GHQ-28 threshold for psychiatric case identification (caseness), cannabis dependent participants had significantly higher level of caseness across all subscales of somatic concerns, anxiety, social dysfunction and depression. Dependent women registered the highest proportion of psychopathology, particularly anxiety and social dysfunction. Young cannabis users in Queensland who come into contact with the police are more likely than not to be dependent on the drug. Their high levels of psychopathology suggest that they are better placed in healthcare rather than the criminal justice system, and that appropriately responsive mental healthcare programmes are needed.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2008
DOI: 10.1016/J.PEC.2007.09.006
Abstract: There is currently little research examining what in iduals who are at risk of a stroke want from an invention program. In order to increase the usefulness of such programs, qualitative research methods were used explore invention design issues such as factors affecting accessibility of programs and preferred health information sources. Thirty people, each with at least one stroke risk factor, participated in one of eight focus groups. Broad support was indicated for our proposed intervention. Participants perceived the value and likely success of such a program enhanced if it: (a) was integrated with, and supported by, other respected health services (b) included social components (particularly important to women) (c) produced long-term benefits and (d) included information that was personally relevant and practical in terms of implementing change. Three reasons emerged for continuing stroke education c aigns as a component of intervention programs these were: (a) a lack of awareness among some participants of gaps in their stroke knowledge (b) participants' explicit requests for specific rather than general information and (c) the apparent failure of some participants to self-identify as at risk. This study yielded a number of important design considerations that should be taken into account when developing stroke intervention programs. We discuss ways of maximising the personal relevance of stroke prevention information along theoretically important dimensions, and consumers' recommendations for the design and delivery of stroke intervention programs.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2013
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2007
DOI: 10.1016/J.ADDBEH.2006.04.006
Abstract: Cigarette smoking in those who are alcohol dependent is associated with higher morbidity and mortality. The A1 allele of the D2 dopamine receptor (DRD2) gene has been independently associated with alcohol and nicotine dependence. Whether this polymorphism is associated with nicotine dependence in those who are also alcohol dependent has not been investigated. Subjects were 84 (61 males 23 females) Caucasian DSM IV diagnosed nicotine- and alcohol-dependent subjects s led from consecutive admissions to a hospital alcohol detoxification ward. Data were obtained through standardised measures of nicotine and alcohol consumption and dependence severity. A1+ allelic (A1/A1 or A1/A2 genotype) compared to A1- allelic (A2/A2 genotype only) patients were characterised by higher levels of alcohol and cigarette consumption. A1+ allelic patients reported greater alcohol dependence severity, but not nicotine dependence severity. When the combined nicotine and alcohol dose was examined, A1+ allelic patients consumed significantly more of these drugs than their A1- allelic counterparts.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.GENE.2012.05.007
Abstract: Previous research has suggested an increased risk for in iduals with phenylketonuria (PKU) of developing depression and other mood disorders. As PKU can disrupt neurotransmitter synthesis via biochemical mechanisms, depressive symptoms are hypothesised to result from neurotransmitter dysregulation. Whilst adherence (or return) to the phenylalanine-restricted diet may resolve or improve symptoms of depression, data to demonstrate a direct relationship between biochemistry and mood in this population are lacking. Thirteen adolescents with early and continuously treated PKU and eight sibling controls were compared in their total reported depressive symptoms. A general executive function assessment was also undertaken in the PKU group. Correlations between depressive symptoms and biochemical markers were examined within the PKU group only. Correlational analyses within the PKU group demonstrated strong and significant associations between depressive symptoms and long term exposure to either a high phenylalanine:tyrosine ratio, or low tyrosine. Increasing symptoms of depression were also found to be associated with poorer executive function in the PKU s le. However, both groups of adolescents scored within the normal range in symptoms of depression (p>0.05). Significant associations were observed between biochemical markers indicating poorer dietary control and increasing depressive symptoms in a s le of adolescents with early and continuously treated PKU, although symptoms of depression remained within the normal range. An association between depressive symptoms and poorer EF was also demonstrated. Further research is needed to establish whether the depressive symptoms observed in this young population represent an emerging (subclinical) risk for major depressive disorder as they age.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 08-11-2013
Abstract: Objective: To investigate effects of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) on attention, literacy, and behavior in children with ADHD. Method: Ninety children were randomized to consume supplements high in EPA, DHA, or linoleic acid (control) for 4 months each in a crossover design. Erythrocyte fatty acids, attention, cognition, literacy, and Conners’ Parent Rating Scales (CPRS) were measured at 0, 4, 8, 12 months. Results: Fifty-three children completed the treatment. Outcome measures showed no significant differences between the three treatments. However, in children with blood s les ( n = 76-46), increased erythrocyte EPA + DHA was associated with improved spelling ( r = .365, p .001) and attention ( r = −.540, p .001) and reduced oppositional behavior ( r = −.301, p .003), hyperactivity ( r = −.310, p .001), cognitive problems ( r = −.326, p .001), Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed. DSM-IV) hyperactivity ( r = −.270, p = .002) and DSM-IV inattention ( r = −.343, p .001). Conclusion: Increasing erythrocyte DHA and EPA via dietary supplementation may improve behavior, attention, and literacy in children with ADHD.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 09-08-2017
DOI: 10.1111/ACPS.12778
Abstract: Epigenetic modifications such as DNA methylation may play a key role in the aetiology and serve as biomarkers for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). We performed a genomewide analysis to identify genes whose DNA methylation levels are associated with PTSD. A total of 211 in iduals comprising Australian male Vietnam War veterans (n = 96) and males from a general population belonging to the Grady Trauma Project (n = 115) were included. Genomewide DNA methylation was performed from peripheral blood using the Illumina arrays. Data analysis was performed using generalized linear regression models. Differential DNA methylation of 17 previously reported PTSD candidate genes was associated with PTSD symptom severity. Genomewide analyses revealed CpG sites spanning BRSK1, LCN8, NFG and DOCK2 genes were associated with PTSD symptom severity. We replicated the findings of DOCK2 in an independent cohort. Pathway analysis revealed that among the associated genes, genes within actin cytoskeleton and focal adhesion molecular pathways were enriched. These data highlight the role of DNA methylation as biomarkers of PTSD. The results support the role of previous candidates and uncover novel genes associated with PTSD, such as DOCK2. This study contributes to our understanding of the biological underpinnings of PTSD.
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc
Date: 04-2005
Abstract: Massage therapy has promise as an adjunct to standard alcohol detoxification procedures but has not been investigated comprehensively. The study was a randomized controlled trial comparing massage therapy to a "rest" (control) condition in patients undergoing alcohol detoxification. Hospital-based alcohol and drug detoxification clinic. Fifty (50) patients with alcohol dependence (41 males, 9 females). The massage intervention involved a seated back, shoulder, head, and neck massage. Alcohol Withdrawal Scale, respiration, pulse rate, and subjective patient evaluation. Those receiving massage generally showed reductions in pulse rate on 3 of the 4 days of treatment compared to the control group. Massage was also more effective in reducing Alcohol Withdrawal Scale scores in the early stages of the detoxification process. Respiration in the massage group was reduced toward the end of the detoxification admission. Massage shows promise as an adjunct to traditional medical detoxification for alcohol.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 10-05-2017
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2008
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.DRUGALCDEP.2010.10.025
Abstract: Outcome expectancies are a key cognitive construct in the etiology, assessment and treatment of Substance Use Disorders. There is a research and clinical need for a cannabis expectancy measure validated in a clinical s le of cannabis users. The Cannabis Expectancy Questionnaire (CEQ) was subjected to exploratory (n=501, mean age 27.45, 78% male) and confirmatory (n=505, mean age 27.69, 78% male) factor analysis in two separate s les of cannabis users attending an outpatient cannabis treatment program. Weekly cannabis consumption was clinically assessed and patients completed the Severity of Dependence Scale-Cannabis (SDS-C) and the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28). Two factors representing Negative Cannabis Expectancies and Positive Cannabis Expectancies were identified. These provided a robust statistical and conceptual fit for the data. Internal reliabilities were high. Negative expectancies were associated with greater dependence severity (as measured by the SDS) and positive expectancies with higher consumption. The interaction of positive and negative expectancies was consistently significantly associated with self-reported functioning across all four GHQ-28 scales (Somatic Concerns, Anxiety, Social Dysfunction and Depression). Specifically, within the context of high positive cannabis expectancy, higher negative expectancy was predictive of more impaired functioning. By contrast, within the context of low positive cannabis expectancy, higher negative expectancy was predictive of better functioning. The CEQ is the first cannabis expectancy measure to be validated in a s le of cannabis users in treatment. Negative and positive cannabis expectancy domains were uniquely associated with consumption, dependence severity and self-reported mental health functioning.
Publisher: IEEE
Date: 24-09-2021
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc
Date: 10-2014
Abstract: Stress has been identified as a common trigger for psychosis. Dopamine pathways are suggested to be affected by chronic and severe stress and to play an important role in psychosis. This pilot study investigates the potential relationship of stress and psychosis in subclinical psychotic experiences. It was hypothesized that single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) previously found to be associated with psychiatric disorders would be associated with both stress and subclinical psychotic experiences. University students (N=182) were genotyped for 17 SNPs across 11 genes. Higher stress reporting was associated with rs4680 COMT, rs13211507 HLA region, and rs13107325 SLC39A8. Reports of higher subclinical psychotic experiences were associated with DRD2 SNPs rs17601612 and rs658986 and an AKT1 SNP rs2494732. Replication studies are recommended to further pursue this line of research for identification of markers of psychosis for early diagnosis and intervention.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 21-02-2011
Abstract: To test the relative contribution of two key Social Learning Theory constructs, alcohol expectancies (AEs) and drinking refusal self-efficacy (DRSE), in predicting early adolescent drinking behavior and examine the possible mediational role of DRSE over AE. High school students (N = 192, mean age 14) were administered measures assessing AE (Drinking Expectancy Questionnaire--Adolescent version DEQ-A), DRSE (Drinking Refusal Self-Efficacy Questionnaire--Revised Adolescent version DRSEQ-RA) and indices of alcohol consumption and problem drinking. Age, gender, peer drinking, tobacco use and positive and negative behavioral characteristics were included in the statistical models as known predictors of alcohol misuse. Subjects were followed up at 12 months, with 88.5% retention. Initial confirmatory factor analyses verified factor structures of the DEQ-A and DRSEQ-RA. Prospective structural models controlling for Time 1 drinking behavior, age, gender, peer alcohol use, tobacco use and behavior problems identified that DRSE but not AE was associated with problem drinking 12-month post-initial assessment. DRSE mediated AE in predicting problem drinking. Results suggest that DRSE is a more salient cognitive construct than AE in early adolescence alcohol use. In this age group, prevention and treatment strategies that build refusal self-efficacy may be more effective than strategies that challenge AEs.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 24-01-2012
Abstract: Hyperprolactinaemia in antipsychotic treated patients with schizophrenia is a consequence of D2 receptor (DRD2) blockade. Alcohol use disorder is commonly comorbid with schizophrenia and low availability of striatal DRD2 may predispose in iduals to alcohol use. In this pilot study we investigated whether hyperprolactinaemia secondary to pharmacological DRD2 blockade was associated with alcohol use disorder in 219 (178 males and 41 females) patients with schizophrenia. Serum prolactin determinations were made in patients diagnosed with schizophrenia and maintained on antipsychotic agents. Clinical assessment included demographics, family history and administration of the AUDIT (Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test). Higher AUDIT scores were associated with prolactin-raising antipsychotic medication ( n = 106) compared with prolactin-sparing medication ( n = 113). Risperidone ( n = 63) treated patients had higher AUDIT scores and prolactin levels than those on other atypical antipsychotics ( n = 113). Across the entire s le, patients with a prolactin greater than 800 mIU/L had higher AUDIT scores and were more likely to exceed the cut-off score for harmful and hazardous alcohol use. These differences were not explained by potential confounds related to clinical features and demographics, comorbidity or medication side-effects. These data suggest that by lowering dosage, or switching to another antipsychotic agent, the risk for alcohol use disorder in those with schizophrenia may be reduced. This hypothesis requires testing using a prospective methodology.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.PSYCHRES.2011.09.024
Abstract: To test the importance of the dopamine D2 receptor (DRD2) region in nicotine dependence, 150 smokers and 228 controls were genotyped for the DRD2 C957T, -141delC and ANKK1 TaqIA polymorphisms (rs6277, rs1799732 and rs1800497, respectively). The -141delC SNP did not show any association but both the C957T and TaqIA SNPs showed association at the allele, genotype, haplotype and combined genotype levels. The 957C/TaqI A1 haplotype was more than 3.5 times as likely to be associated with nicotine dependence compared with the 957T/TaqI A1 haplotype (P=0.003). Analysis of the combined genotypes of both SNPs revealed that in iduals who were homozygous for the 957C-allele (CC) and had either one or two copies of the TaqI A1-allele were 3.3 times as likely to have nicotine dependence compared to all other genotype combinations (P=0.0003) and that these genotypes accounted for approximately 13% of the susceptibility to nicotine addiction in our population. Our findings suggest that the DRD2 C957T polymorphism and the ANKK1 TaqIA polymorphism are key contributors to the genetic susceptibility to nicotine dependence.
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2009
DOI: 10.1071/SH08061
Abstract: Background: Substance use is common among gay/bisexual men and is associated with significant health risks (e.g. HIV transmission). The consequences of substance use, across the range of substances commonly used, have received little attention. The purpose of this study is to map participant’s beliefs about the effects of substance use to inform prevention, health promotion and clinical interventions. Methods: Participants were interviewed about experiences regarding their substance use and recruited through medical and sexual health clinics. Data were collected though a consumer panel and in idual interviews. Responses regarding perceived consequences of substance use were coded using Consensual Qualitative Research (CQR) methodology. Results: Most participants reported lifetime use of alcohol, cannabis, stimulants and amyl nitrite, and recent alcohol and cannabis use. A wide range of themes were identified regarding participant’s thoughts, emotions and behaviours (including sexual behaviours) secondary to substance use, including: cognitive functioning, mood, social interaction, physical effects, sexual activity, sexual risk-taking, perception of sexual experience, arousal, sensation, relaxation, disinhibition, energy/activity level and numbing. Analyses indicated several consequences were consistent across substance types (e.g. cognitive impairment, enhanced mood), whereas others were highly specific to a given substance (e.g. heightened arousal post amyl nitrite use). Conclusions: Prevention and interventions need to consider the variety of effects of substance use in tailoring effective education programs to reduce harms. A ersity of consequences appear to have direct and indirect impacts on decision-making, sexual activity and risk-taking. Findings lend support for the role of specific beliefs (e.g. expectancies) related to substance use on risk-related cognitions, emotions and behaviours.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 04-2018
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 06-1993
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 09-08-2011
Abstract: Suboptimal omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (n-3 PUFA) levels may contribute to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and related developmental problems. Associations between n-3 and omega-6 (n-6) PUFA levels in red blood cells (erythrocytes) and learning and behaviour were investigated in 75 children aged 7-12 with ADHD. Children provided blood s les and underwent cognitive assessments. Parents completed questionnaires and Conners' Rating Scales. Controlling for covariates, higher n-3 PUFA predicted lower anxiety/shyness (β = -.27), higher docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) better word reading (β = .22), and higher n-6 PUFA poorer reading (β = -.34), vocabulary (β = .-.26), spelling (β = -.30) and attention (β = -.30). Thirty-six per cent of the s le with learning difficulties had lower DHA than those without (M = 3.26 ± 0.54 vs M = 3.68 ± 0.76, p = .02). This study is the first to compare erythrocyte PUFAs (a measure of PUFA status) in children who have ADHD with and without learning difficulties, and supports emerging indications that the former may be more likely responders to n-3 PUFAs.
Publisher: Heighten Science Publications Corporation
Date: 2017
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 1999
Abstract: Hepatitis C is highly prevalent among intravenous drug abusers, but to date research has not widely explicated behavioural risk factors regarding acquisition of infection. The A₁allele of the D₂ dopamine receptor (DRD2) gene is a hypothesized risk factor in the development of severe drug dependence and alcoholism. The present study compares the frequency of the A₁ allele of the DRD2 gene among 37 patients presenting to a hepatitis clinic for treatment of hepatitis C, 23 hepatitis C-negative drug-abusing patients maintained on methadone and 33 non-drug-abusing controls. The results indicated that hepatitis C-positive patients were significantly more likely to display the A₁ allele than hepatitis C-negative patients, who were in turn more likely to have the A₁ allele than controls. Furthermore, the hepatitis C subjects manifested more persistent drug-seeking behaviour than the other drug-abusing group. The implications of this finding in terms of drug-related reward are discussed. Future research should attempt to evaluate host risk factors, in order to enable more precisely targeted attempts at harm minimization.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 09-1990
DOI: 10.1111/J.2044-8341.1990.TB01620.X
Abstract: Earlier research shows that alcohol expectancies are related to alcohol consumption. However, how the alcohol expectancies are related to drinking in a public bar is still unknown. This paper examines this relationship in 10 moderate-heavy male social drinkers attending alternatively to both alcohol dependent and non-dependent cognitive sets of alcohol use. When discussing the alcohol dependent expectancies, these drinkers consumed significantly less alcohol compared with their consumption when discussing non-alcohol dependent expectancies. This group effect was also corroborated by a within-subject analysis of the data. The implications of the relationship between beliefs and drinking behaviour in terms of a cognitive behaviour model of alcohol use are briefly discussed.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 31-10-2013
Abstract: Although the advent of atypical, second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) has resulted in reduced likelihood of akathisia, this adverse effect remains a problem. It is known that extrapyramidal adverse effects are associated with increased drug occupancy of the dopamine 2 receptors (DRD2). The A1 allele of the DRD2/ANKK1, rs1800497, is associated with decreased striatal DRD2 density. The aim of this study was to identify whether the A1(T) allele of DRD2/ANKK1 was associated with akathisia (as measured by Barnes Akathisia Rating Scale) in a clinical s le of 234 patients who were treated with antipsychotic drugs. Definite akathisia (a score ≥ 2 in the global clinical assessment of akathisia) was significantly less common in subjects who were prescribed SGAs (16.8%) than those prescribed FGAs (47.6%), p 0.0001. Overall, 24.1% of A1+ patients (A1A2/A1A1) who were treated with SGAs had akathisia, compared to 10.8% of A1- (thus, A2A2) patients. A1+ patients who were administered SGAs also had higher global clinical assessment of akathisia scores than the A1- subjects ( p = 0.01). SGAs maintained their advantage over FGAs regarding akathisia, even in A1+ patients who were treated with SGAs. These results strongly suggested that A1+ variants of the DRD2/ANKK1 Taq1A allele do confer an associated risk for akathisia in patients who were treated with SGAs, and these variants may explain inconsistencies found across prior studies, when comparing FGAs and SGAs.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-1998
DOI: 10.1016/S0165-1781(98)00084-5
Abstract: As the dopaminergic and GABAergic systems have been implicated in alcohol-related behaviors, variants of the D2 dopamine receptor (DRD2) and GABA(A) receptor beta3 subunit (GABRB3) genes were determined in a population-based association study of Caucasian non-alcoholic and alcoholic subjects. In severe alcoholics, compared to non-alcoholics, a significant increase was found in the prevalence (P = 1.7 x 10(-5)) and frequency (P = 1.6 x 10(-5)) of the DRD2 minor (A1) allele. Moreover, a significant progressive increase was observed in A1 allelic prevalence (P = 3.1 x 10(-6)) and frequency (P = 2.7 x 10(-6)) in the order of non-alcoholics, less severe and severe alcoholics. In severe alcoholics, compared to non-alcoholics, a significant decrease was found in the prevalence (P = 4.5 x 10(-3)) and frequency (P = 2.7 x 10(-2)) of the GABRB3 major (G1) allele. Furthermore, a significant progressive decrease was noted in G1 allelic prevalence (P = 2.4 x 10(-3)) and frequency (P = 1.9 x 10(-2)) in non-alcoholics, less severe and severe alcoholics, respectively. In sum, in the same population of non-alcoholics and alcoholics studied, variants of both the DRD2 and GABRB3 genes independently contribute to the risk for alcoholism, with the DRD2 variants revealing a stronger effect than the GABRB3 variants. However, when the DRD2 and the GABRB3 variants are combined, the risk for alcoholism is more robust than when these variants are considered separately.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.COMPPSYCH.2017.01.015
Abstract: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is associated with increased inflammation and comorbid medical conditions. However, study findings for in idual inflammatory marker levels have been inconsistent. Some research suggests that resilience may play a role in decreased inflammation. A polymorphism in the promoter region of the tumor necrosis factor α gene (TNFα), TNFA -308 (rs1800629) is associated with psychiatric illness but its role in PTSD is yet to be elucidated. This study investigates a key inflammatory marker, TNFα, for its role in PTSD severity. In a cohort of trauma-exposed Vietnam War veterans (n=299 159 cases, 140 controls) TNF α serum levels and TNFα polymorphism rs1800629 were correlated with PTSD severity and resilience scores. The polymorphism was associated with PTSD severity (p=0.045). There were significant group differences between cases and controls with regards to serum TNFα levels (p=0.036). Significant correlations were found between PTSD severity and elevated TNFα levels (r=0.153 p=0.009), and between resilience and decreased TNFα levels at a trend level (p=0.08) across the entire cohort. These relationships were non-significant after controlling for covariates. In the PTSD diagnostic group, a correlation of TNFα and PTSD severity was observed on a trend level (p=0.06), the relationship between TNFα and resilience remained non-significant. To our knowledge, this is the first time rs1800629 has been investigated in PTSD contributing to a growing body of literature that identifies the GG as a risk genotype for psychiatric disorders in Caucasian cohorts. However, more research is needed to replicate our results in larger, equally well-characterized cohorts. The relationship between serum TNFα levels and PTSD severity and resilience requires further investigation.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.ADDBEH.2018.02.007
Abstract: This study aimed to develop and validate a shortened version of the Drinking Refusal Self-Efficacy Questionnaire-Revised Adolescent version (DRSEQ-RA) using a large s le of adolescents. Secondary school students (N = 2609, M = 14.52 years, SD = 0.94) completed the DRSEQ-RA (consisting of subscales: Social Pressure Opportunistic Emotional Relief) and the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT). These data were analysed using non-parametric item response theory (NIRT) including Mokken scalability coefficients, and confirmatory factor analysis. Social Pressure subscale items were better able to distinguish between adolescents with lower or higher levels of drinking refusal self-efficacy, while the Opportunistic and Emotional Relief subscale items were able to distinguish adolescents with low drinking-refusal self-efficacy. The DRSEQ-RA was reduced from 19-items to a 9-item scale and retained the original three-factor structure. The reduced scale was named the Drinking Refusal Self-Efficacy Questionnaire-Shortened Revised Adolescent version (DRSEQ-SRA). The DRSEQ-RA and the DRSEQ-SRA have almost identical psychometric properties. They both demonstrated good fit to the data, each explained 18% of the variance in alcohol consumption, Adj. R The DRSEQ-SRA is a short, 9-item, measure of adolescent drinking-refusal self-efficacy which demonstrates both reliability and validity. A significant advantage is brevity. The DRSEQ-SRA may be a valuable tool for identifying risk of adolescent drinking and prevention/treatment planning in settings where survey administration time is critical.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2007
DOI: 10.1016/J.ADDBEH.2006.07.001
Abstract: Adolescent drinking is a significant issue yet valid psychometric tools designed for this group are scarce. The Drinking Refusal Self-Efficacy Questionnaire--Revised Adolescent Version (DRSEQ-RA) is designed to assess an in idual's belief in their ability to resist drinking alcohol. The original DRSEQ-R consists of three factors reflecting social pressure refusal self-efficacy, opportunistic refusal self-efficacy and emotional relief refusal self-efficacy. A large s le of 2020 adolescents aged between 12 and 19 years completed the DRSEQ and measures of alcohol consumption in small groups. Using confirmatory factor analysis, the three factor structure was confirmed. All three factors were negatively correlated with both frequency and volume of alcohol consumption. Drinkers reported lower drinking refusal self-efficacy than non-drinkers. Taken together, these results suggest that the adolescent version of the Drinking Refusal Self-Efficacy Questionnaire (DRSEQ-RA) is a reliable and valid measure of drinking refusal self-efficacy.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 06-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.EURPSY.2015.01.008
Abstract: Dystrobrevin binding protein 1 ( DTNBP1 ) is a schizophrenia susceptibility gene involved with neurotransmission regulation (especially dopamine and glutamate) and neurodevelopment. The gene is known to be associated with cognitive deficit phenotypes within schizophrenia. In our previous studies, DTNBP1 was found associated not only with schizophrenia but with other psychiatric disorders including psychotic depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, nicotine dependence and opiate dependence. These findings suggest that DNTBP1 may be involved in pathways that lead to multiple psychiatric phenotypes. In this study, we explored the association between DTNBP1 SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) and multiple psychiatric phenotypes included in the Diagnostic Interview of Psychosis (DIP). Five DTNBP1 SNPs, rs17470454, rs1997679, rs4236167, rs9370822 and rs9370823, were genotyped in 235 schizophrenia subjects screened for various phenotypes in the domains of depression, mania, hallucinations, delusions, subjective thought disorder, behaviour and affect, and speech disorder. SNP-phenotype association was determined with ANOVA under general, dominant/recessive and over-dominance models. Post hoc tests determined that SNP rs1997679 was associated with visual hallucination SNP rs4236167 was associated with general auditory hallucination as well as specific features including non-verbal, abusive and third-person form auditory hallucinations and SNP rs9370822 was associated with visual and olfactory hallucinations. SNPs that survived correction for multiple testing were rs4236167 for third-person and abusive form auditory hallucinations and rs9370822 for olfactory hallucinations. These data suggest that DTNBP1 is likely to play a role in development of auditory related, visual and olfactory hallucinations which is consistent with evidence of DTNBP1 activity in the auditory processing regions, in visual processing and in the regulation of glutamate and dopamine activity.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 04-06-2021
DOI: 10.1017/S0033291721000830
Abstract: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and major depressive disorder (MDD) are commonly reported co-occurring mental health consequences of psychological trauma exposure. The disorders have high genetic overlap. Trauma is a complex phenotype but research suggests that trauma sensitivity has a heritable basis. We investigated whether sensitivity to trauma in those with MDD reflects a similar genetic component in those with PTSD. Genetic correlations between PTSD and MDD in in iduals reporting trauma and MDD in in iduals not reporting trauma were estimated, as well as with recurrent MDD and single-episode MDD, using genome-wide association study (GWAS) summary statistics. Genetic correlations were replicated using PTSD data from the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium and the Million Veteran Program. Polygenic risk scores were generated in UK Biobank participants who met the criteria for lifetime MDD ( N = 29 471). We investigated whether genetic loading for PTSD was associated with reporting trauma in these in iduals. Genetic loading for PTSD was significantly associated with reporting trauma in in iduals with MDD [OR 1.04 (95% CI 1.01–1.07), Empirical- p = 0.02]. PTSD was significantly more genetically correlated with recurrent MDD than with MDD in in iduals not reporting trauma ( r g differences = ~0.2, p 0.008). Participants who had experienced recurrent MDD reported significantly higher rates of trauma than participants who had experienced single-episode MDD (χ 2 166, p 0.001) Our findings point towards the existence of genetic variants associated with trauma sensitivity that might be shared between PTSD and MDD, although replication with better powered GWAS is needed. Our findings corroborate previous research highlighting trauma exposure as a key risk factor for recurrent MDD.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 02-2003
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2007
DOI: 10.1016/J.ADDBEH.2006.11.001
Abstract: The allied psychological drinking constructs of alcohol expectancy and drinking restraint have shown considerable promise, both independently and in combination, in understanding problematic drinking. However, previous research examining the relationship between these two constructs has only occurred in pre-dependent, convenience s les. This study examined the role of both alcohol expectancies and drinking restraint in an alcohol dependent s le. 143 DSM-IV alcohol dependent participants (93 males, 50 females) completed measures of drinking restraint (Temptation and Restraint Inventory, TRI) and alcohol expectancy (Drinking Expectancy Profile, DEP), along with quantity and frequency of consumption and dependence severity (Alcohol Dependence Scale, ADS). The results showed that although alcohol expectancy and drinking restraint do share common underlying properties, there was unique variance attributed to the prediction of dependence severity and consumption. The results also failed to replicate the drinking restraint model observed in non-clinical s les. It was concluded that alcohol expectancy and drinking restraint models appear to show superior utility in pre-dependent populations. The implications of these findings in refining social cognitive models of alcohol misuse are discussed, with a particular focus on prevention.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 2000
DOI: 10.1002/1096-8628(20001009)96:5<592::AID-AJMG3>3.0.CO;2-Y
Abstract: A total of 95 Caucasian opioid-dependent patients were followed over a one-year period in an outpatient methadone treatment program. The frequency of the TaqI A(1) allele of the D(2) dopamine receptor (DRD2) gene was 19.0% in these patients compared with 4.6% in controls free of past and current alcohol and other drug abuse and free of family history of alcohol and other drug abuse (p = 0.009). Twenty-two of these patients dropped out of the methadone program (Group A), 54 had a successful treatment (Group B), and 19 had a poor treatment (Group C) outcome. The frequency of the A(1) allele was highest in Group C (42.1%), followed by Group A (22.7%) and was lowest in Group B (9.3%). The more than fourfold higher frequency of the A(1) allele in the poor treatment outcome group compared with the successful treatment outcome group was significant (p = 0.00002). Moreover, the average use of heroin (grams/day) during the year prior to study entry was more than twice as great in patients with the A(1)(+) allele (A(1)/A(1) or A(1)/A(2) genotype) than those with the A(1)(-) allele (A(2)/A(2) genotype) (A(1)(+) allele = 0.55 +/- 0. 10, A(1)(-) allele = 0.25 +/- 0.05 p = 0.003). The results indicate that DRD2 variants are predictors of heroin use and subsequent methadone treatment outcome and suggest a pharmacogenetic approach to the treatment of opioid dependence.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 1990
DOI: 10.3109/10826089009061325
Abstract: The discrepancy between personal alcohol-related statements and general beliefs regarding alcohol was investigated in a community s le of 283 social drinkers. Discriminant analysis showed that subjects perceived themselves as significantly less dependent than others. "Self" statement responses accurately predicted drinking behavior, as measured by consumption however, general statements did so less effectively. Medium-heavy drinkers considered others to be dependent on alcohol to change aversive events, suggesting that a self-fulfilling bias may have distorted their perception. For most drinkers the self-other discrepancy seemed best explained by media and societal influences rather than by a self-fulfilling bias model.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.ADDBEH.2014.02.004
Abstract: Perceived impaired control over alcohol use is a key cognitive construct in alcohol dependence that has been related prospectively to treatment outcome and may mediate the risk for problem drinking conveyed by impulsivity in non-dependent drinkers. The aim of the current study was to investigate whether perceived impaired control may mediate the association between impulsivity-related measures (derived from the Short-form Eysenck Personality Questionnaire-Revised) and alcohol-dependence severity in alcohol-dependent drinkers. Furthermore, the extent to which this hypothesized relationship was moderated by genetic risk (Taq1A polymorphism in the DRD2/ANKK1 gene cluster) and verbal fluency as an indicator of executive cognitive ability (Controlled Oral Word Association Test) was also examined. A s le of 143 alcohol-dependent inpatients provided an extensive clinical history of their alcohol use, gave 10ml of blood for DNA analysis, and completed self-report measures relating to impulsivity, impaired control and severity of dependence. As hypothesized, perceived impaired control (partially) mediated the association between impulsivity-related measures and alcohol-dependence severity. This relationship was not moderated by the DRD2/ANKK1 polymorphism or verbal fluency. These results suggest that, in alcohol dependence, perceived impaired control is a cognitive mediator of impulsivity-related constructs that may be unaffected by DRD2/ANKK1 and neurocognitive processes underlying the retrieval of verbal information.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 08-02-2006
Abstract: To compare treatment outcomes amongst patients offered pharmacotherapy with either naltrexone or ac rosate used singly or in combination, in a 12-week outpatient cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) programme for alcohol dependence. We matched 236 patients across gender, age group, prior alcohol detoxification, and dependence severity and conducted a cohort comparison study of three medication groups (CBT + ac rosate, CBT + naltrexone, CBT + combined medication) which included 59 patients per group. Outcome measures included programme attendance, programme abstinence and for those who relapsed, cumulative abstinence duration (CAD) and days to first breach (DFB). Secondary analyses compared the remaining matched 59 subjects who declined medication with the pharmacotherapy groups. Across medication groups, CBT + combined medication produced the greatest improvement across all outcome measures. Although a trend favoured the CBT + combined group, differences did not reach statistical significance. Programme attendance: CBT + Ac rosate group (66.1%), CBT + Naltrexone group (79.7%), and in the CBT + Combined group (83.1%). Abstinence rates were 50.8, 66.1, and 67.8%, respectively. For those that did not complete the programme abstinent, the average number of days abstinent (CAD) were 45.07, 49.95, and 53.58 days, respectively. The average numbers of days to first breach (DFB) was 26.79, 26.7, and 37.32 days. When the focal group (CBT + combined) was compared with patients who declined medication (CBT-alone), significant differences were observed across all outcome indices. Withdrawal due to adverse medication effects was minimal. The addition of both medications (naltrexone and ac rosate) resulted in measurable benefit and was well tolerated. In this patient population naltrexone with CBT is as effective as combined medication with CBT, but the trend favours combination medication.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.DRUGALCDEP.2012.02.018
Abstract: There are few valid clinical assessment instruments for cannabis. Self-efficacy, or the ability of users to resist temptation, is a central feature of social cognitive theory. This study outlines the development and validation of the cannabis refusal self-efficacy questionnaire (CRSEQ), which measures the situational confidence to refuse cannabis. One thousand two hundred and forty-six patients referred for cannabis assessment completed the CRSEQ including measures of cannabis consumption and dependence severity (severity of dependence scale-cannabis, SDS-C). The CRSEQ was subject to independent exploratory (n=621, mean age 26.88, 78.6% male) and confirmatory (n=625, mean age 27.51, 76.8% male) factor analysis. Three factors: Emotional Relief, Opportunistic and Social Facilitation were identified. They provided a good statistical and conceptual fit for the data. Emotional relief cannabis refusal self-efficacy was identified as most predictive of cannabis dependence, after controlling for cannabis consumption. The CRSEQ is recommended as a psychometrically sound and clinically useful measure for cannabis misuse treatment planning and assessment.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 08-2013
DOI: 10.1017/S1461145711001659
Abstract: Dysfunction of dopamine D3 receptors, particularly in the mesocorticolimbic system, has been linked to the pathogenesis of major depression. Preclinical data show enhanced D3 receptor binding in the striatum upon antidepressant medication and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Thus, the potential impact of dopamine D3 receptor gene (DRD3) variation on ECT outcome in treatment-resistant major depression was evaluated by applying a combined molecular and imaging genetic approach. Altogether, 10 representative variants covering 95.4% of DRD3 gene variation were investigated for association with response to ECT in a s le of 104 (71 female, 33 male) Caucasian patients with pharmacorefractory major depression. Additionally, ventral striatum responsiveness to happy faces was assessed in two independent s les of depressed patients (total N=54) by means of functional magnetic resonance imaging at 3 T. Significant association of DRD3 rs3732790, rs3773679 and rs9817063 variants with response (uncorrected p=0.02–0.03) and remission (uncorrected p=0.01) after ECT was discerned. Logistic regression analyses revealed association of rs3732790 (uncorrected p=0.009 corrected p=0.045) and rs3773679 (uncorrected p=0.009 corrected p=0.045) with remission when applying a recessive model of inheritance. The rs3732790T allele conferring a more favourable treatment response was furthermore found to be associated with stronger striatal responsiveness to happy facial expressions (s le 1: cluster-corrected p=0.002 s le 2: p=0.023). In summary, the present study suggests some impact of DRD3 gene variation on ECT response, potentially mediated by alteration of striatal engagement during the processing of emotionally rewarding stimuli.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 04-2002
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2018
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 25-11-2020
DOI: 10.1038/S41467-020-19742-5
Abstract: Miscarriage is a common, complex trait affecting ~15% of clinically confirmed pregnancies. Here we present the results of large-scale genetic association analyses with 69,054 cases from five different ancestries for sporadic miscarriage, 750 cases of European ancestry for multiple (≥3) consecutive miscarriage, and up to 359,469 female controls. We identify one genome-wide significant association (rs146350366, minor allele frequency (MAF) 1.2%, P = 3.2 × 10 −8 , odds ratio (OR) = 1.4) for sporadic miscarriage in our European ancestry meta-analysis and three genome-wide significant associations for multiple consecutive miscarriage (rs7859844, MAF = 6.4%, P = 1.3 × 10 −8 , OR = 1.7 rs143445068, MAF = 0.8%, P = 5.2 × 10 −9 , OR = 3.4 rs183453668, MAF = 0.5%, P = 2.8 × 10 −8 , OR = 3.8). We further investigate the genetic architecture of miscarriage with biobank-scale Mendelian randomization, heritability, and genetic correlation analyses. Our results show that miscarriage etiopathogenesis is partly driven by genetic variation potentially related to placental biology, and illustrate the utility of large-scale biobank data for understanding this pregnancy complication.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 2009
DOI: 10.1002/DA.20517
Abstract: Variations in genes related to the dopaminergic pathway have been implicated in neuropsychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, substance misuse, Alzheimer's disease and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). A single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) (957C>T) and a deletion polymorphism (-141delC) in the DRD2 gene and a SNP (Taq1A) in a gene directly downstream of DRD2 have all been implicated in dopamine functioning in the brain. To test the importance of these three polymorphisms in PTSD susceptibility, a genetic screen was performed in 127 war veterans diagnosed with PTSD and 228 control in iduals without a history of PTSD. No significant association was found between PTSD and the Taq1A or -141delC polymorphisms. However, a significant association was observed with PTSD and the 957C>T polymorphism. PTSD in iduals were more likely to carry the C allele compared to the controls (P=0.021). Our findings suggest that the 957C>T polymorphism in the DRD2 gene is one of the genetic factors for susceptibility to PTSD.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 11-04-2013
DOI: 10.1017/BEC.2013.7
Abstract: Benzodiazepines are widely prescribed to manage sleep disorders, anxiety and muscular tension. While providing short-term relief, continued use induces tolerance and withdrawal, and in older users, increases the risk of falls. However, long-term prescription remains common, and effective interventions are not widely available. This study developed a self-managed cognitive behaviour therapy package for cessation of benzodiazepine use delivered to participants via mail (M-CBT) and trialled its effectiveness as an adjunct to a general practitioner (GP)-managed dose reduction schedule. In the pilot trial, participants were randomly assigned to GP management with immediate or delayed M-CBT. Significant recruitment and engagement problems were experienced, and only three participants were allocated to each condition. After immediate M-CBT, two participants ceased use, while none receiving delayed treatment reduced daily intake by more than 50%. Across the s le, doses at 12 months remained significantly lower than baseline, and qualitative feedback from participants was positive. While M-CBT may have promise, improved engagement of GPs and participants is needed for this approach to substantially impact on community-wide benzodiazepine use.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 04-09-2014
DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2014.950984
Abstract: Beliefs and misconceptions about sex, gender, and rape have been explored extensively to explain attributions concerning alcohol-involved sexual violence. However, less is known about the specific beliefs that people hold about how alcohol facilitates sexual aggression and victimisation. The present study aimed to identify these alcohol-related beliefs among young Australian adults. Six men and nine women (N = 15 18-24 years) in focus groups (n = 13) and interviews (n = 2) were asked to discuss the role of alcohol in a hypothetical alcohol-involved rape. Using a consensual qualitative research methodology, the effects of alcohol that were seen to introduce, progress, and intensify risks for rape were: increased confidence character transformation impaired cognition behavioural disinhibition altered sexual negotiation enhanced self-centredness impaired awareness of wrongdoing increased/decreased sexual assertiveness and compromised self-protection. Some of the beliefs identified in this study are not currently captured in alcohol expectancy measures which assess people's beliefs about alcohol's effects on cognition, emotion, and behaviour. This study's findings offer a conceptual basis for the development of a new alcohol expectancy measure that can be used in future rape-perception research.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2005
DOI: 10.1080/09638280400014683
Abstract: To review and characterise biomechanical approaches for the measurement of spasticity as one component of the upper motor neurone syndrome. Systematic literature searches based on defined constructs and a four-step review process of approaches used or described to measure spasticity, its association with function or associated phenomena. Most approaches were limited to in idual joints and therefore, to reflect this trend, references were grouped according to which body joint(s) were investigated or whether it addressed a functional activity. For each joint, references were further sub- ided into the types of measurement method described. A database of 335 references was established for the review process. The knee, ankle and elbow joints were the most popular, perhaps reflecting the assumption that they are mono-planar in movement and therefore simpler to assess. Seven measurement methods were identified: five involving passive movement (manual, controlled displacement, controlled torque, gravitational and tendon tap) and two involving active movement (voluntary and functional). Generally, the equipment described was in an experimental stage and there was a lack of information on system properties, such as accuracy or reliability. Patient testing was either by cohort or case studies. The review also conveyed the myriad of interpretations of the concept of spasticity. Though biomechanical approaches provide quantitative data, the review highlighted several limitations that have prevented them being established as an appropriate method for clinical application to measure spasticity.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 04-1995
DOI: 10.1038/NM0495-337
Abstract: Various types of alcoholics have been described and heredity has been shown to be involved in some of these types. An important role of the mesolimbic dopamine system has been suggested in the reinforcing effects of alcohol and recent molecular genetic studies are implicating the gene for the D2 dopamine receptor (DRD2) in alcoholism. In a double-blind study, bromocriptine, a DRD2 agonist, or placebo was administered to alcoholics with either the A1 (A1/A1 and A1/A2 genotypes) or only the A2 (A2/A2 genotype) allele of the DRD2 gene. The greatest improvement in craving and anxiety occurred in the bromocriptine-treated A1 alcoholics and attrition was highest in the placebo-treated A1 alcoholics. The feasibility of a pharmacogenetic approach in treating certain types of alcoholics is suggested.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 26-09-2007
DOI: 10.1111/J.1467-985X.2007.00505.X
Abstract: This year's annual report shows another very successful year for the Society. The range of the Society's new initiatives bears testament to our vigour and to the energy and enthusiasm of Fellows and staff. It is difficult to summarize all of these but I offer a brief overview of some of the highlights. This year we have awarded the first annual prize for ‘Statistical excellence in journalism’. It is too easy to bemoan the general quality of coverage of statistical issues in the press and other media. But simply moaning does not improve the situation. As a positive step, on the instigation of Sheila Bird and Andrew Garratt, the Society decided to initiate an award for the best journalistic coverage of a statistical issue. This year first prize was awarded to Ben Goldacre of The Guardian. I hope that these annual awards will offer a positive focus on good coverage and help us to promote best practice. This year, also, we have set up the Professional Development Centre to act as a focus for statistical training both for statisticians and for others who use statistical methods as part of their work. It thus reflects our support for continuing professional development for our Fellows and at the same time provides outreach to members of the statistical user community who want to improve their statistical skills. We welcome Nicola Bright as the Director of the Centre and wish her every success. I am pleased to say that it is not just the Society centrally that has taken new activities this year. The Manchester Local Group have initiated a prize for final year undergraduates from any higher education institute in the north-west. At a time when there are concerns about the number of well-qualified graduates coming into the statistics profession this seems an excellent way to attract the attention of final year undergraduates. I wish this initiative every success. Another development to which the Society has contributed is the Higher Education Funding Council for England project ‘more maths grads’ which is designed to promote participation in undergraduate degrees in the mathematical sciences. A good supply of mathematically trained graduates is essential to the UK economy in general and to the health of the statistics discipline in particular. It is good that the Society is involved in practical developments that are aimed at increasing participation. The final new initiative that I shall draw attention to is the ‘first-in-man’ report which is concerned with the statistical design of drug trials aimed at testing novel treatment types. The working party was set up as a result of the adverse reactions suffered by healthy volunteers to a first-in-man trial of monoclonal antibodies and who were subsequently admitted to Northwick Park hospital. The report makes a series of recommendations about the design of such trials and will, I hope, contribute to the safety of future trials. I would like to thank Stephen Senn and the members of the working party for their considerable efforts. As well as these new initiatives there were, of course, many other continuing activities that are noteworthy. The annual conference in Belfast was a great success with many lively sessions and a good number of participants. In particular it was good to see a high number of young statisticians participating in the conference, reflecting the continuing impact of the Young Statisticians Forum on which I commented in the previous annual report. Another continuing activity for the Society is the statistical legislation going through Parliament as I write. The Society has long c aigned for legislation for official statistics. The issue now is to try to get good legislation which will have the required effect and will help the Government Statistical Service and other statistical producers to produce high quality, authoritative statistics in an environment that commands public confidence. As first published, the Society was disappointed with the Bill but we have worked to build support for amendments that, in our view, are essential. Time alone will tell how effective the final legislation will be in meeting our aims. I would like to draw attention to the success of the Membership Services team. We, although with other statistical Societies, have experienced a decline in membership in recent years but the team have turned this round. They are helping to recruit new Fellows and to retain the commitment of existing Fellows. This is a fine achievement and I would like to thank Nicola Emmerson, Ed Swires-Hennessy and the whole team. Finally we have, at last, reached a conclusion in our dealings with the Privy Council and will implement the second phase of constitutional changes. In future our business year, financial year and year for elected appointments will all coincide on a calendar year basis. There will be transitional arrangements but in due course all our administrative arrangements will coincide and will improve efficiency and co-ordination. This has been a long journey, steered effectively by our Director General, Ivor Goddard, and I congratulate him for a successful outcome on your behalf. As you read this report, I hope that you will share my impression of a Society that is lively and spawning many new programmes. We have a dual commitment: to the well-being of statistics as a discipline and to the promotion of statistical understanding and practice to the benefit of Society at large. In both respects I feel that the Society is in good health. This is due to the unstinting efforts of a large number of in idual volunteers, including in particular our Honorary Officers and also, of course, the staff at Errol Street. On behalf of all Fellows, I wish to express my thanks to everyone involved. Tim Holt
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-12-2009
DOI: 10.1111/J.1360-0443.2008.02364.X
Abstract: To assess the effectiveness of current treatment approaches to assist benzodiazepine discontinuation. A systematic review of approaches to benzodiazepine discontinuation in general practice and out-patient settings was undertaken. Routine care was compared with three treatment approaches: brief interventions, gradual dose reduction (GDR) and psychological interventions. GDR was compared with GDR plus psychological interventions or substitutive pharmacotherapies. Inclusion criteria were met by 24 studies, and a further eight were identified by future search. GDR [odds ratio (OR) = 5.96, confidence interval (CI) = 2.08-17.11] and brief interventions (OR = 4.37, CI = 2.28-8.40) provided superior cessation rates at post-treatment to routine care. Psychological treatment plus GDR were superior to both routine care (OR = 3.38, CI = 1.86-6.12) and GDR alone (OR = 1.82, CI = 1.25-2.67). However, substitutive pharmacotherapies did not add to the impact of GDR (OR = 1.30, CI = 0.97-1.73), and abrupt substitution of benzodiazepines by other pharmacotherapy was less effective than GDR alone (OR = 0.30, CI = 0.14-0.64). Few studies on any technique had significantly greater benzodiazepine discontinuation than controls at follow-up. Providing an intervention is more effective than routine care. Psychological interventions may improve discontinuation above GDR alone. While some substitutive pharmacotherapies may have promise, current evidence is insufficient to support their use.
Publisher: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
Date: 04-2015
Abstract: Hyperphenylalaninemia is a variant of phenylketonuria, and debate remains as to what, if any, active management of this condition is required to preserve cognitive function and psychological well-being. This study is the first to examine longitudinally the executive function (EF) in adolescents with hyperphenylalaninemia. Two sibling pairs with mild hyperphenylalaninemia underwent neuropsychological examination in early childhood and again in adolescence using EF tests that were highly sensitive to phenylalanine exposure. By early adolescence, none of the 4 children demonstrated EF impairment. The children demonstrated a typical developmental trajectory of EF from childhood to adolescence, given phenylalanine exposure consistent with their condition.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 09-07-2010
Abstract: A number of studies have found associations between dysbindin ( DTNBP1 ) polymorphisms and schizophrenia. Recently we identified a DTNBP1 SNP (rs9370822) that is strongly associated with schizophrenia. In iduals diagnosed with schizophrenia were nearly three times as likely to carry the CC genotype compared to the AA genotype. To investigate the importance of this SNP in the function of DTNBP1 , a number of psychiatric conditions including addictive behaviours and anxiety disorders were analysed for association with rs9370822. The DTNBP1 polymorphism was significantly associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as well as nicotine and opiate dependence but not alcohol dependence. In iduals suffering PTSD were more than three times as likely to carry the CC genotype compared to the AA genotype. In iduals with nicotine or opiate dependence were more than twice as likely to carry the CC genotype compared to the AA genotype. This study provides further support for the importance of DTNBP1 in psychiatric conditions and suggests that there is a common underlying molecular defect involving DTNBP1 that contributes to the development of several anxiety and addictive disorders that are generally recognised as separate clinical conditions. These disorders may actually be different expressions of a single metabolic pathway perturbation. As our participant numbers are limited our observations should be viewed with caution until they are independently replicated.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2004
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 27-04-2022
DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2022.2065542
Abstract: Post-stroke survivors report that feedback helps to increase training motivation. A wearable system (M-MARK), comprising movement and muscle sensors and providing feedback when performing everyday tasks was developed. The objective reported here was to create an evidence-based set of upper-limb tasks for use with the system. Data from two focus groups with rehabilitation professionals, ten interviews with stroke survivors and a review of assessment tests were synthesized. In a two-stage process, suggested tasks were screened to exclude non-tasks and complex activities. Remaining tasks were screened for suitability and entered into a categorization matrix. Of 83 suggestions, eight non-tasks, and 42 complex activities were rejected. Of the remaining 33 tasks, 15 were rejected: five required fine motor control eight were too complex to standardize one because the role of hemiplegic hand was not defined and one involved water. The review of clinical assessment tests found no additional tasks. Eleven were ultimately selected for testing with M-Mark. Using a task categorization matrix, a set of training tasks was systematically identified. There was strong agreement between data from the professionals, survivors and literature. The matrix populated by tasks has potential for wider use in upper-limb stroke rehabilitation. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONRehabilitation technologies that provide feedback on quantity and quality of movements can support independent home-based upper limb rehabilitation.Rehabilitation technology systems require a library of upper limb tasks at different levels for people with stroke and therapists to choose from.A user-defined and evidence-based set of upper limb tasks for use within a wearable sensor device system have been developed.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2009
DOI: 10.1016/J.ADDBEH.2008.11.014
Abstract: Meth hetamine (MA) use is associated with hostility, aggression, and positive psychotic symptoms. However, little is known of the processes or mechanisms that underlie this relationship. The present research was designed to investigate putative mediating and moderating variables between MA dependence and hostility in a s le of injecting MA users (N=237). Both positive symptoms of psychosis and higher levels of impulsivity functioned as mediators and moderators of this relationship. This pattern of findings suggests that MA use leads to greater hostility by increasing positive psychotic symptoms that contribute to a perception of the environment as a hostile and threatening place as well as by increasing impulsivity. Those who were high in positive symptoms and high in impulsivity were the most hostile. In idual differences in impulsivity and positive psychotic symptoms should be taken into account in the assessment and management of MA dependence.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 03-07-2014
Abstract: The functional BDNF single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs6265 has been associated with many disorders including schizophrenia and alcohol dependence. However, studies have been inconsistent, reporting both positive and negative associations. Comorbid alcohol dependence has a high prevalence in schizophrenia so we investigated the role of rs6265 in alcohol dependence in Australian populations of schizophrenia and alcohol-dependent patients. Two BDNF SNPs rs6265 and a nearby SNP rs7103411 were genotyped in a total of 848 in iduals. These included a schizophrenia group (n = 157) and a second schizophrenia replication group (n = 235), an alcohol-dependent group (n = 231) that had no schizophrenia diagnosis and a group of healthy controls (n = 225). Allelic association between rs7103411 and comorbid alcohol dependence was identified (P = 0.044) in the primary schizophrenia s le. In the replication study, we were able to detect allelic associations between both BDNF SNPs and comorbid alcohol dependence (rs6265, P = 0.006 rs7103411, P = 0.014). Moreover, we detected association between both SNPs and risk-taking behaviour after drinking (rs6265, P = 0.005 rs7103411, P = 0.009) and we detected strong association between both SNPs and alcohol dependence in males (rs6265, P = 0.009 rs7103411, P = 0.013) while females showed association with multiple behavioural measures reflecting repetitive alcohol consumption. Haplotype analysis revealed the rs6265-rs7103411 A/C haplotype is associated with comorbid alcohol dependence (P = 0.002). When these SNPs were tested in the non-schizophrenia alcohol-dependent group we were unable to detect association. We conclude that these BDNF SNPs play a role in development of comorbid alcohol dependence in schizophrenia while our data do not indicate that they play a role in alcohol-dependent patients who do not have schizophrenia.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 25-08-2015
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 03-01-2012
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.BBI.2016.12.006
Abstract: Due to the heterogeneous nature of schizophrenia, understanding the genetic risk for the disease is a complex task. Gene expression studies have proven to be more reliable than association studies as they are consistently replicated in a tissue specific manner. Using RNA-Seq we analysed gene expression in the frontal cortex of 24 in iduals with schizophrenia and 25 unaffected controls. We identified 1146 genes that were differentially expressed in schizophrenia, approximately 60% of which were up-regulated and 366 of 1146 (32%) also have aberrant DNA methylation (p=2.46×10 Our results identified biological functional genes that are differentially expressed in schizophrenia. A subset of these genes are clinically proven drug targets. We also found a strong pattern of differentially expressed immune response genes that may reflect an underlying defect in schizophrenia.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 04-09-2012
DOI: 10.1093/HER/CYS093
Abstract: We investigated critical beliefs to target in interventions aimed at improving sun-protective behaviours of Australian adults, a population at risk for skin cancer. Participants (N = 816) completed a Theory of Planned Behaviour belief-based questionnaire and a 1-week follow-up of sun-protective behaviour. A range of behavioural, normative and control beliefs correlated with sun-protective behaviour, with no and only minimal differences observed in correlations between beliefs and behaviour by gender and age, respectively. A range of key beliefs made independent contributions to behaviour however, the behavioural belief about being less likely to tan (β = 0.09) normative belief about friends (β = 0.20) and control beliefs about forgetfulness (β = -0.14), inconvenience (β = -0.17), knowing I will be in the sun for a long time (β = 0.16) and more fashionable sun-protective clothing (β = 0.13) were significant critical beliefs guiding people's sun-protective behaviour. Our study fills a gap in the literature by investigating an at-risk population for skin cancer and using an established theoretical framework to identify critical beliefs that guide Australian adults' decisions to sun protect. Attention to these critical beliefs will assist health c aigns and interventions aimed at combating the increasing rates of skin cancer for adults.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 16-08-2011
DOI: 10.1111/J.1465-3362.2010.00225.X
Abstract: Alcohol expectancies are associated with drinking behaviour and post-drinking use thoughts, feelings and behaviours. The expectancies held by specific cultural or sub-cultural groups have rarely been investigated. This research maps expectancies specific to gay and other men who have sex with men (MSM) and their relationship with substance use. This study describes the specific development of a measure of such beliefs for alcohol, the Drinking Expectancy Questionnaire for Men who have Sex with Men (DEQ-MSM). Items selected through a focus group and interviews were piloted on 220 self-identified gay or other MSM via an online questionnaire. Factor analysis revealed three distinct substance reinforcement domains ('Cognitive impairment', 'Sexual activity' and 'Social and emotional facilitation'). These factors were associated with consumption patterns of alcohol, and in a crucial test of discriminant validity were not associated with the consumption of cannabis or stimulants. Similarities and differences with existing measures will also be discussed. The DEQ-MSM represents a reliable and valid measure of outcome expectancies, related to alcohol use among MSM, and represents an important advance as no known existing alcohol expectancy measure, to date, has been developed and/or normed for use among this group. Future applications of the DEQ-MSM in health promotion, clinical settings and research may contribute to reducing harm associated with alcohol use among MSM, including the development of alcohol use among young gay men.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 04-01-2017
DOI: 10.3390/GENES8010014
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc
Date: 02-2012
Abstract: Dopamine D2 receptor (DRD2) is thought to be critical in regulating the dopaminergic pathway in the brain, which is known to be important in the etiology of schizophrenia. It is, therefore, not surprising that most antipsychotic medication acts on DRD2. DRD2 is widely expressed in the brain levels are reduced in the brains of patients with schizophrenia, and DRD2 polymorphisms have been associated with reduced brain expression. We have previously identified a genetic variant in DRD2, rs6277 to be strongly implicated in schizophrenia susceptibility. To identity new associations in the DRD2 gene with disease status and clinical severity, we genotyped seven single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in DRD2 by using a multiplex mass spectrometry method. SNPs were chosen by using a haplotype block-based gene-tagging approach so, the entire DRD2 gene was represented. One polymorphism, rs2734839 was found to be significantly associated with schizophrenia as well as late onset age. In iduals carrying the genetic variation were more than twice as likely to have schizophrenia compared with controls. Our results suggest that DRD2 genetic variation is a good indicator for schizophrenia risk and may also be used as a predictor of age of onset.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.DRUGALCDEP.2016.01.018
Abstract: Meth hetamine use can produce symptoms almost indistinguishable from schizophrenia. Distinguishing between the two conditions has been h ered by the lack of a validated symptom profile for meth hetamine-induced psychiatric symptoms. We use data from a longitudinal cohort study to examine the profile of psychiatric symptoms that are acutely exacerbated by meth hetamine use. 164 meth hetamine users, who did not meet DSM-IV criteria for a lifetime primary psychotic disorder, were followed monthly for one year to assess the relationship between days of meth hetamine use and symptom severity on the 24-item Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale. Exacerbation of psychiatric symptoms with meth hetamine use was quantified using random coefficient models. The dimensions of symptom exacerbation were examined using principal axis factoring and a latent profile analysis. Symptoms exacerbated by meth hetamine loaded on three factors: positive psychotic symptoms (suspiciousness, unusual thought content, hallucinations, bizarre behavior) affective symptoms (depression, suicidality, guilt, hostility, somatic concern, self-neglect) and psychomotor symptoms (tension, excitement, distractibility, motor hyperactivity). Meth hetamine use did not significantly increase negative symptoms. Vulnerability to positive psychotic and affective symptom exacerbation was shared by 28% of participants, and this vulnerability aligned with a past year DSM-IV diagnosis of substance-induced psychosis (38% vs. 22%, χ(2)(df1)=3.66, p=0.056). Meth hetamine use produced a symptom profile comprised of positive psychotic and affective symptoms, which aligned with a diagnosis of substance-induced psychosis, with no evidence of a negative syndrome.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2011
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2003
DOI: 10.1016/S0924-977X(02)00152-9
Abstract: This study examined whether allelic status of the D2 dopamine receptor (DRD2) gene was associated with response to a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, paroxetine, in the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Sixty-three Caucasian war veterans with combat-related PTSD were treated with paroxetine for 8 weeks. Patients were assessed at baseline and at follow-up using the General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ). TaqI A DRD2 alleles were determined by PCR. Before paroxetine treatment, patients with the DRD2 A1+ allele (A1A2 genotype) compared to those with the A1- allele (A2A2 genotype) had higher total GHQ psychopathological scores (P=0.040) and higher GHQ subscale scores for anxiety/insomnia (0.046), social dysfunction (P=0.033) and depression (P=0.011). In an intention-to-treat analysis, paroxetine was associated with significant improvement in total GHQ scores (P=0.014) and in the factor scores of social dysfunction (P=0.033), anxiety (P=0.009) and depression (P=0.026). Furthermore, there was a significant allele by time interaction on the social dysfunction scale, with A1+ allelic patients showing significant improvement in social functioning compared to A1- allelic patients (P=0.031), an effect independent of changes in depression or anxiety. This suggests changes in social functioning induced by paroxetine may be, in part, mediated via D2 dopamine receptors. The DRD2 A1 allele may prove to be a useful marker to assist clinicians in predicting which patients with PTSD are likely to obtain improvements in social functioning with paroxetine treatment.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2002
DOI: 10.1080/02699050110103986
Abstract: To examine a theoretical model which suggests that a contribution of both psychological and neuropsychological factors underlie deficits in self-awareness and self-regulation. Multivariate design including correlations and analysis of variance (ANOVA). Sixty-one subjects with acquired brain injury (ABI) were administered standardized measures of self-awareness and self-regulation. Psychological factors included measures of coping-related denial, personality-related denial and personality change. Neuropsychological factors included an estimate of IQ and two measures of executive functioning that assess capacity for volition and purposive behaviour. The findings indicated that the relative contribution of neuropsychological factors to an outcome of deficits in self-awareness and self-regulation had a more direct effect than psychological factors. In general, measures of executive functioning had a direct relationship, while measures of coping-related and personality-related denial had an indirect relationship with measures of self-awareness and self-regulation. The findings highlighted the importance of measuring both neuropsychological and psychological factors and demonstrated that the relative contribution of these variables varies according to different levels of self-awareness and self-regulation.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 05-2009
DOI: 10.1080/09595230802130158
Abstract: Little is known about motives or expectancies for cannabis use in psychotic populations, despite these cognitive factors being a central focus of the treatment for substance misuse in psychosis. This study examined the relationship between cannabis use expectancies, cannabis use and psychotic symptoms among cannabis using psychotic inpatients. A secondary aim was to determine if there were significant differences in the cannabis use expectancies of psychotic patients with and without Diagnostic and Statistical Manual version IV (DSM-IV) cannabis dependence. Participants consisted of 101 in-patients with psychosis who had used cannabis more than five times in the past year. Expectancies were assessed using the Cannabis Expectancy Questionnaire (CEQ). The frequency of cannabis use, severity of cannabis dependence, presence of DSM-IV cannabis dependence and severity of psychotic symptoms were also assessed using standardised measures. Results suggested that cannabis use expectancies were associated with cannabis use but not symptom variables. Expectancies for cannabis use predicted recent cannabis use and the presence and severity of cannabis dependence. Psychotic patients with DSM-IV cannabis dependence had significantly higher expectancies for negative effects from cannabis use. Prospective research examining the influence of motives and expectancies for cannabis use on cannabis use and psychotic symptoms is required to obtain a greater understanding of substance use in psychosis and assist with the development of innovative treatment interventions.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 03-1991
DOI: 10.1007/BF00960735
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.COMPPSYCH.2016.08.015
Abstract: Schizophrenia is a clinically heterogeneous disorder and may be explained by its complex genetic architecture. Many schizophrenia susceptibility genes were identified but the picture remains unclear due to inconsistent or contradictory genetic association studies. This confusion may, in part, be because symptoms result from the combined interaction of many genes and these interacting genes are associated with specific sub-phenotypes of schizophrenia rather than schizophrenia as a whole. This study investigates the relationship between schizophrenia susceptibility genes and schizophrenia sub-phenotypes by identifying multiple gene variant interactions. Fifty SNPs from 21 genes were genotyped in 235 Australian participants with schizophrenia screened for various phenotypes. Schizophrenia participants were grouped into relevant phenotype clusters using cluster analysis and normalized phenotype cluster scores were calculated for each patient. The relationship between genotypes and normalized phenotype cluster scores were analyzed by linear regression analysis. Three phenotype clusters were identified. There was some overlap in symptoms between phenotype clusters, particularly for depression. However, cluster 1 appears to be characterized by speech disorder and affective behavior symptoms, cluster 2 has predominantly hallucination symptoms and cluster 3 has mainly delusion symptoms. Interaction of five SNPs was found to have an effect on cluster 1 symptoms ten SNPs on cluster 2 symptoms and eight SNPs on cluster 3 symptoms. The interaction of specific susceptibility genes is likely to lead to specific clinical sub-phenotypes of schizophrenia. Larger patient cohorts with more extensive clinical data will improve the detection of gene interactions and the resultant schizophrenia clinical phenotypes.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.BRAT.2017.07.003
Abstract: Impulsivity is a core characteristic of externalizing problems and a robust predictor of alcohol use in adolescence. There is little evidence on the causal mechanisms through which impulsivity influences drinking or how they are affected by key social factors (peer influence). This study reports the development of the first comprehensive laboratory model of adolescent impulsivity and alcohol use. One-hundred and twenty adolescents (50% female) of legal drinking age (M = 19.47 years, SD = 1.12) in Australia (18+ years) were subjected to 1 of 3 experimental manipulations to increase impulsive behavior (reward cue exposure, negative mood induction, ego depletion). Changes in disinhibition (stop-signal task) and reward-seeking (BAS-Fun Seeking) were measured before completing a laboratory drinking task alone or with a heavy-drinking confederate. Reward cue exposure increased alcohol consumption, with the effect mediated by increased reward-seeking. Negative mood induction increased disinhibition, but not drinking. The presence of a heavy-drinking peer directly increased alcohol consumption in an additive fashion. Findings provide causal evidence that extends survey-based research by highlighting the role of reward-related impulsivity in adolescent alcohol use. The new laboratory model can provide novel insights into the psychological processes underlying adolescent impulsivity and impulsivity-related drinking.
Publisher: American Psychological Association (APA)
Date: 2011
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 04-11-2018
Abstract: Despite evidence suggesting that alcohol expectancies may influence people’s rape perceptions, no study to date has measured context-specific expectancies comprehensively. This study represents an initial investigation of the role of sexual coercion and vulnerability alcohol expectancies in young Australian adults’ rape blame attributions. Using a vignette method, it was hypothesized that participants’ stronger expectancy endorsement would predict lesser perpetrator blame and greater victim blame. Participants ( n = 210 34.9% males 18-25 years) read a hypothetical rape scenario and rated dimensions of blameworthiness attributed to the intoxicated sexual perpetrator and victim. Participants completed the Sexual Coercion and Sexual Vulnerability subscales of the Drinking Expectancy Sexual Vulnerabilities Questionnaire for the targets self, men, and women in addition to measures of traditional gender role attitudes and rape myth acceptance. Hierarchical multiple regressions revealed that, as expected, stronger sexual coercion expectancy predicted lower perpetrator blame and greater victim blame. Self-oriented expectancy predicted evaluations of the perpetrator whereas other-oriented expectancy predicted victim evaluations. These effects were robust after controlling for gender role attitudes and rape myth acceptance. Alcohol expectancies appear to be part of a network of beliefs and attitudes which perpetuate biased rape attributions and may be useful to challenge in altering rape perceptions.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 07-01-2014
DOI: 10.1038/TP.2013.111
Abstract: Recent studies suggest that genetic and environmental factors do not account for all the schizophrenia risk, and epigenetics also has a role in disease susceptibility. DNA methylation is a heritable epigenetic modification that can regulate gene expression. Genome-wide DNA methylation analysis was performed on post-mortem human brain tissue from 24 patients with schizophrenia and 24 unaffected controls. DNA methylation was assessed at over 485 000 CpG sites using the Illumina Infinium HumanMethylation450 Bead Chip. After adjusting for age and post-mortem interval, 4641 probes corresponding to 2929 unique genes were found to be differentially methylated. Of those genes, 1291 were located in a CpG island and 817 were in a promoter region. These include NOS1 , AKT1 , DTNBP1 , DNMT1 , PPP3CC and SOX10 , which have previously been associated with schizophrenia. More than 100 of these genes overlap with a previous DNA methylation study of peripheral blood from schizophrenia patients in which 27 000 CpG sites were analysed. Unsupervised clustering analysis of the top 3000 most variable probes revealed two distinct groups with significantly more people with schizophrenia in cluster one compared with controls ( P =1.74 × 10 −4 ). The first cluster composed of 88% of patients with schizophrenia and only 12% controls, whereas the second cluster composed of 27% of patients with schizophrenia and 73% controls. These results strongly suggest that differential DNA methylation is important in schizophrenia etiology and add support for the use of DNA methylation profiles as a future prognostic indicator of schizophrenia.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 04-1999
Abstract: This article is a review of the association of in idual and marital problems. The focus is on depression, alcohol abuse, anxiety disorders, and the functional psychoses, each of which interact with marital distress in important ways. Although the causal connections between these disorders and marital distress are complex and only particularly understood, the available evidence shows that in iduals’ and couples’ problems often exacerbate each other. Consequently, regardless of whether the initial presentation is in idual or couple focused, there is routinely a need to assess both in idual and relationship functioning. Couples therapy, and in particular behavioral couples therapy (BCT), is an important element of effective treatment of depression, alcohol abuse, anxiety disorders, and the functional psychoses. The integration of couple and in idual therapy presents a number of clinical challenges, and in concluding this article the authors provide guidelines for managing these challenges.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2002
DOI: 10.1016/S0306-4603(01)00185-X
Abstract: Based on a cognitive-social learning model of alcohol use, it was hypothesised that women with both alcohol and relationship problems would endorse more positive expectations of the effects of alcohol consumption on their relationship and would report lower relational efficacy than women without relationship or alcohol problems. Measures of relationship-referent alcohol expectancies and relational efficacy were completed by 174 married women with both alcohol and relationship problems (n = 20), alcohol problems alone (n = 26), relationship problems alone (n = 30), or neither problem (n = 98). Women without either alcohol or relationship problems strongly rejected expectations of enhanced relationship functioning (e.g., enhanced intimacy, increased emotional expression) following alcohol consumption, whereas women with both alcohol and relationship problems were ambivalent about these positive expectations. Women with both problems also reported lower relational efficacy than the other groups of women. Negative expectations about the effect of alcohol consumption on relationships in women with low relational efficacy may inhibit harmful drinking.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.DRUGALCDEP.2010.11.015
Abstract: Up to fifty percent of alcohol dependent in iduals have alexithymia, a personality trait characterised by difficulties identifying and describing feelings, a lack of imagination and an externalised cognitive style. Although studies have examined alexithymia in relation to alcohol dependence, no research exists on mechanisms underlying this relationship. The present study examined the mediational effect of alcohol expectancies on alexithymia and alcohol dependence. 230 outpatients completed the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20), the Drinking Expectancy Questionnaire (DEQ) and the Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test (AUDIT). Regression analysis showed that alexithymia and alcohol dependence was, in two of three cases, partially mediated through alcohol expectancy. Alcohol expectancies of assertion and affective change show promise as mediators of alcohol dependence in in iduals with alexithymia.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 07-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.EURPSY.2010.08.004
Abstract: Catechol-O-methyl transferase ( COMT ) encodes an enzyme involved in the metabolism of dopamine and maps to a commonly deleted region that increases schizophrenia risk. A non-synonymous polymorphism (rs4680) in COMT has been previously found to be associated with schizophrenia and results in altered activity levels of COMT . Using a haplotype block-based gene-tagging approach we conducted an association study of seven COMT single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 160 patients with a DSM-IV diagnosis of schizophrenia and 250 controls in an Australian population. Two polymorphisms including rs4680 and rs165774 were found to be significantly associated with schizophrenia. The rs4680 results in a Val/Met substitution but the strongest association was shown by the novel SNP, rs165774, which may still be functional even though it is located in intron five. In iduals with schizophrenia were more than twice as likely to carry the GG genotype compared to the AA genotype for both the rs165774 and rs4680 SNPs. This association was slightly improved when males were analysed separately possibly indicating a degree of sexual dimorphism. Our results confirm that COMT is a good candidate for schizophrenia risk, by replicating the association with rs4680 and identifying a novel SNP association.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 09-11-2017
DOI: 10.1080/15622975.2016.1245443
Abstract: To examine the combined effect of the BDNF Val66Met (rs6265) polymorphism and BDNF DNA methylation on transcriptional regulation of the BDNF gene. DNA methylation profiles were generated for CpG sites proximal to Val66Met, within BDNF promoter I and exon V for prefrontal cortex s les from 25 schizophrenia and 25 control subjects. Val66Met genotypes and BDNF mRNA expression data were generated by transcriptome sequencing. Expression, methylation and genotype data were correlated and examined for association with schizophrenia. There was 43% more of the BDNF V-VIII-IX transcript in schizophrenia s les. BDNF mRNA expression and DNA methylation of seven CpG sites were not associated with schizophrenia after accounting for age and PMI effects. BDNF mRNA expression and DNA methylation were not altered by Val66Met after accounting for age and PMI effects. DNA methylation of one CpG site had a marginally significant positive correlation with mRNA expression in schizophrenia subjects. Schizophrenia risk was not associated with differential BDNF mRNA expression and DNA methylation. A larger age-matched cohort with comprehensive clinical history is required to accurately identify the effects of genotype, mRNA expression and DNA methylation on schizophrenia risk.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 05-2009
DOI: 10.1002/CASP.983
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-1997
DOI: 10.1080/09595239700186741
Abstract: Although public health c aigns focusing on alcohol in the work-place are receiving increasing attention, there is little empirical evidence regarding the use of screening. In this work-place study, 152 mining personnel (67% of the work-force) completed a self report screen using the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT). One hundred and thirty-three of these (58.5% of the work-force) also consented to be breathalysed and one (0.75%) recorded a BAC just over threshold for detection. Forty-eight males (37.7% of the male work-force) recorded AUDIT scores of eight or more consistent with hazardous alcohol use and one female registered a cumulative score above the female cut-off level for hazardous alcohol use. Eighty males (67% of the work-force), recorded binge drinking at least monthly and 81 males recorded a cumulative AUDIT score of less than eight however, on item analysis, 64 (83%) of these recorded binge drinking at least sometimes. There is substantial hazardous alcohol use in this s le work group and younger males had higher alcohol consumption, more adverse consequences and higher total AUDIT scores identifying them as particularly at risk. The Cronbach & AUDIT was 0.72, confirming adequate internal consistency.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 11-06-2014
DOI: 10.1111/BJHP.12108
Abstract: To address the scarcity of comprehensive, theory-based research in the Australian context, this study, using a theory of planned behaviour (TPB) framework, investigated the role of personal and social norms to identify the key predictors of adult Australians' sun-safe intentions and behaviour. The study used a prospective design with two waves of data collection, 1 week apart. Participants were 816 adults (48.2% men) aged between 18 and 88 years recruited from urban, regional, and rural areas of Australia. At baseline, participants completed a questionnaire assessing the standard TPB predictors (attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavioural control [PBC]), past behaviour, behavioural intention, and additional measures of group norm for the referent groups of friends and family, image norm, personal norm, personal choice/responsibility, and Australian identity. Seventy-one per cent of the participants (n = 577) reported on their sun-safe behaviour in the subsequent week. Via path modelling, past behaviour, attitude, group norm (friends), personal norm, and personal choice/responsibility emerged as independent predictors of intentions which, in turn, predicted sun-safe behaviour prospectively. Past behaviour, but not PBC, had direct effects on sun-safe behaviour. The model explained 61.6% and 43.9% of the variance in intention and behaviour, respectively. This study provides support for the use of a comprehensive theoretical decision-making model to explain Australian adults' sun-safe intentions and behaviours and identifies viable targets for health-promoting messages in this high-risk context. Statement of contribution What is already known on this subject? Identifying determinants of sun-safe behaviour is vital in high-risk cancer areas like Australia. For young Australians, friendship group norm is a key influence of intentions and behaviour. Little is known about drivers of sun safety, especially norms, among Australian adults in general. What does this study add? This study drew on qualitative data and reconceptualized norms for Australians' sun-safe decisions. Friendship group norm and personal norm, not family group norm, influence sun-safe intentions. Perceived responsibility and choice to be sun safe also impact on people's intentions.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-05-2011
DOI: 10.1111/J.1360-0443.2011.03442.X
Abstract: To develop a measure of craving based on the Elaborated Intrusion (EI) theory of desire and to examine the construct, concurrent and discriminant validity of the instrument. Cross-sectional. Patients from a hospital alcohol and drug out-patient service (n = 230), participants in a randomized controlled trial (n = 219) and students in a university-based study of alcohol craving (n = 202) were recruited. The Alcohol Craving Experience questionnaire (ACE) was developed to measure sensory aspects of craving (imagining taste, smell or sensations of drinking and intrusive cognitions associated with craving) when craving was maximal during the previous week (ACE-S: strength), and to assess frequency of desire-related thoughts in the past week (ACE-F: frequency). All participants completed the ACE and the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT). The Obsessive Compulsive Drinking Scale (OCDS) and the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS) were completed by hospital patients and randomized control trial participants. Exploratory factor analysis on the ACE-S and ACE-F resulted in a three-factor structure representing imagery, intensity and intrusion. An attempt to confirm this factor structure required a reduction in items (two from ACE-S, five from ACE-F) before a good fit to the three-factor model was obtained. Concurrent validity with the OCDS, with severity of alcohol dependence and with depression, anxiety and stress, was demonstrated. The ACE discriminated between clinical and non-clinical populations and between those at higher risk of alcohol dependence and those at lower risk. A new scale, the Alcohol Craving Experience questionnaire, based on the Elaborated Intrusion theory of desire appears to capture key constructs of the theory and correlate with indices of alcohol dependence.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2006
DOI: 10.1080/09638280600633563
Abstract: The aim of the study was to investigate the nature, extent, and predictors of stroke knowledge amongst people at risk of stroke. A total of 273 questionnaires were distributed to three types of sites in metropolitan Brisbane (retirement villages, senior citizens and bowls clubs), and this strategy yielded a response rate of 37%. Of the surveys returned, 75 were retained in this study on the basis that: (a) participants met our criteria for being at risk of stroke (i.e., they reported one or more modifiable stroke risk factor, such as hypertension), and (b) they returned a completed Stroke Knowledge Test (SKT). Descriptive analyses revealed the overall level of stroke knowledge in this group was fair (approximately 50% of SKT items answered correctly, on average). SKT performance trends showed that participants did not have misconceptions about stroke but that more than 50% of the s le did not know the answer to seven out of 20 SKT items. Some overlap was identified regarding the issues about which participants in this and other previously researched groups admit they lack knowledge, such as the extent of increased stroke risk associated with smoking however, the number of knowledge gaps identified in this s le was almost double that reported previously amongst stroke survivors and the general community. Analyses undertaken to explore determinants of stroke knowledge revealed age and education but not risk factor variables as significant predictors. Overall, findings suggest that it is presently difficult to predict an in idual's understanding of stroke and that there is a need to increase stroke education, especially if this can address issues that people at risk of stroke admit they do not understand.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 23-02-2010
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 03-1989
DOI: 10.1007/BF00962702
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 05-11-2010
Publisher: Mark Allen Group
Date: 09-2009
DOI: 10.12968/IJTR.2009.16.9.43767
Abstract: Changing behaviour to reduce stroke risk is a difficult prospect made particularly complex because of psychological factors. This study examined predictors of intentions and behaviours to reduce stroke risk in a s le of at-risk in iduals, seeking to find how knowledge and health beliefs influenced both intention and actual behaviour to reduce stroke risk. A repeated measures design was used to assess behavioural intentions at time 1 (T1) and subsequent behaviour (T2). One hundred and twenty six respondents completed an online survey at T1, and behavioural follow-up data were collected from approximately 70 participants 1 month later. Predictors were stroke knowledge, demographic variables, and beliefs about stroke that were derived from an expanded health belief model. Dependent measures were: exercise and weight loss, and intention to engage in these behaviours to reduce stroke risk. Multiple hierarchical regression analyses showed that, for exercise and weight loss respectively, different health beliefs predicted intention to control stroke risk. The most important exercise-related health beliefs were benefits, susceptibility, and self-efficacy for weight loss, the most important beliefs were barriers, and to a lesser degree, susceptibility and subjective norm. Health beliefs may play an important role in stroke prevention, particularly beliefs about susceptibility because these emerged for both behaviours. Stroke education and prevention programmes that selectively target the health beliefs relevant to specific behaviours may prove most efficacious.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 03-01-2019
DOI: 10.1007/S12529-018-09759-Y
Abstract: China is the world's largest tobacco consumer. Smoking initiation dramatically increases from teenage to adulthood. In this study, we investigated adolescents' future smoking intention at critical ages and its associated predictors. Using a longitudinal design (3 waves) across 6 months in 2016, data from 156 10th graders in two high schools in China were examined. We used latent class growth modelling to explore the heterogeneous trajectories of smoking intentions for two future age groups. Logistic regression was then used to estimate the predictors of trajectories. Two trajectories and three trajectories were identified for future smoking intention in their twenties and forties, respectively. Gender, current smoking status, and mothers' and friends' smoking status all played distinct roles in future smoking intentions. Chinese adolescents' future intentions at critical ages are of concern. Future tobacco control should target the critical ages as well as incorporate social and cultural meanings of smoking in China. As important factors related to future smoking trajectories, gender and mothers' smoking status should also be considered in anti-smoking prevention efforts. Meanings associated with smoking status in the future should also be explored especially for female adolescents.
Publisher: American Psychological Association (APA)
Date: 2002
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 10-2002
DOI: 10.1046/J.1440-1614.2002.01019.X
Abstract: The relapse prevention medication ac rosate has been recently introduced to the Australian Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for the treatment of alcohol dependence. Overseas clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of using ac rosate as an adjunct to existing psychotherapeutic approaches. Research has not examined treatment outcomes using a standardized clinical approach. The objective of this study is to investigate the impact of adding ac rosate to an established abstinence-based outpatient alcohol rehabilitation programme in an Australian population. Fifty patients participated in an established 12-week, outpatient, "contract" based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) alcohol abstinence programme and received ac rosate (CBT + ac rosate). Patients weighing > or = 60 kg were prescribed ac rosate calcium 333 mg tablets, two tablets three times daily (1998 mg/day) and those weighing < 60 kg received four tablets (1332 mg/day) daily. Outcomes were compared with 50 historical, matched controls, all of whom participated in the same program without a relapse prevention medication (CBT alone). All patients met DSM-IV criteria for alcohol dependence and the majority were socially disadvantaged. Programme attendance across the eight treatment sessions was similar in both the CBT + ac rosate and the CBT alone conditions (P = 0.268). Relapse to alcohol use occurred sooner and more frequently in the CBT alone group (P = < 0.0005). Rehabilitation programme completion at 12 weeks was 42% (CBT + ac rosate) compared with 32% for (CBT alone) (P = < 0.204). Alcohol abstinence at 12 weeks was 38% (CBT + ac rosate) compared with 14% (CBT alone) (P = < 0.006). Even within an alcohol dependent population characterized by poor prognostic indices, the addition of ac rosate to an established CBT outpatient programme significantly improved abstinence rates over a 12-week period. The use of ac rosate as an adjunctive treatment for alcohol dependence should be encouraged in Australia.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.JANXDIS.2014.09.014
Abstract: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a complex syndrome that occurs following exposure to a potentially life threatening traumatic event. This review summarises the literature on the genetics of PTSD including gene-environment interactions (GxE), epigenetics and genetics of treatment response. Numerous genes have been shown to be associated with PTSD using candidate gene approaches. Genome-wide association studies have been limited due to the large s le size required to reach statistical power. Studies have shown that GxE interactions are important for PTSD susceptibility. Epigenetics plays an important role in PTSD susceptibility and some of the most promising studies show stress and child abuse trigger epigenetic changes. Much of the molecular genetics of PTSD remains to be elucidated. However, it is clear that identifying genetic markers and environmental triggers has the potential to advance early PTSD diagnosis and therapeutic interventions and ultimately ease the personal and financial burden of this debilitating disorder.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 28-10-2014
DOI: 10.1111/ADD.12366
Abstract: Self-efficacy beliefs and outcome expectancies are central to Social Cognitive Theory (SCT). Alcohol studies demonstrate the theoretical and clinical utility of applying both SCT constructs. This study examined the relationship between refusal self-efficacy and outcome expectancies in a s le of cannabis users, and tested formal mediational models. Patients referred for cannabis treatment completed a comprehensive clinical assessment, including recently validated cannabis expectancy and refusal self-efficacy scales. A hospital alcohol and drug out-patient clinic. Patients referred for a cannabis treatment [n = 1115, mean age 26.29, standard deviation (SD) 9.39]. The Cannabis Expectancy Questionnaire (CEQ) and Cannabis Refusal Self-Efficacy Questionnaire (CRSEQ) were completed, along with measures of cannabis severity [Severity of Dependence Scale (SDS)] and cannabis consumption. Positive (β = -0.29, P < 0.001) and negative (β = -0.19, P < 0.001) cannabis outcome expectancies were associated significantly with refusal self-efficacy. Refusal self-efficacy, in turn, fully mediated the association between negative expectancy and weekly consumption [95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.03, 0.17] and partially mediated the effect of positive expectancy on weekly consumption (95% CI = 0.06, 0.17). Consistent with Social Cognitive Theory, refusal self-efficacy (a person's belief that he or she can abstain from cannabis use) mediates part of the association between cannabis outcome expectancies (perceived consequences of cannabis use) and cannabis use.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 2009
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2023
DOI: 10.1016/J.BIOPSYCH.2022.08.012
Abstract: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are associated, but it is unclear if this is a causal relationship or confounding. We used genetic analyses and sibling comparisons to clarify the direction of this relationship. Linkage disequilibrium score regression and 2-s le Mendelian randomization were used to test for genetic correlation (r ADHD and PTSD had consistent r Our findings add novel evidence supporting the need for early and effective treatment of ADHD, as patients with this diagnosis are at significantly higher risk to develop PTSD later in life.
Publisher: ASME International
Date: 19-08-2011
DOI: 10.1115/1.4004076
Abstract: The thermal performance of a miniature, three-dimensional flat-plate oscillating heat pipe (3D FP-OHP) was experimentally investigated during high-gravity loading with nonfavorable evaporator positioning. The heat pipe had dimensions of 3.0 × 3.0 × 0.254 cm3 and utilized a novel design concept incorporating a two-layer channel arrangement. The device was charged with acetone and tested at a heat input of 95 W within a spin-table centrifuge. It was found that the heat pipe operated and performed near-independent of the investigated hypergravity loading up to 10 g. Results show that at ten times the acceleration due to gravity (10 g), the effective thermal conductivity was almost constant and even slightly increased which is very different from a conventional heat pipe. The gravity-independent heat transfer performance provides a unique feature of OHPs.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-1997
DOI: 10.1016/S0006-3223(96)00478-7
Abstract: Dynamic prediction of patient mortality risk in the ICU with time series data is limited due to high dimensionality, uncertainty in s ling intervals, and other issues. A new deep learning method, temporal convolution network (TCN), makes it possible to deal with complex clinical time series data in ICU. We aimed to develop and validate it to predict mortality risk using time series data from MIMIC III dataset. A total of 21,139 records of ICU stays were analysed and 17 physiological variables from the MIMIC III dataset were used to predict mortality risk. Then we compared the model performance of the attention-based TCN with that of traditional artificial intelligence (AI) methods. The area under receiver operating characteristic (AUCROC) and area under precision-recall curve (AUC-PR) of attention-based TCN for predicting the mortality risk 48 h after ICU admission were 0.837 (0.824 -0.850) and 0.454, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of attention-based TCN were 67.1% and 82.6%, respectively, compared to the traditional AI method, which had a low sensitivity (< 50%). The attention-based TCN model achieved better performance in the prediction of mortality risk with time series data than traditional AI methods and conventional score-based models. The attention-based TCN mortality risk model has the potential for helping decision-making for critical patients. Data used for the prediction of mortality risk were extracted from the freely accessible MIMIC III dataset. The project was approved by the Institutional Review Boards of Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (Boston, MA) and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Cambridge, MA). Requirement for in idual patient consent was waived because the project did not impact clinical care and all protected health information was deidentified. The data were accessed via a data use agreement between PhysioNet, a National Institutes of Health-supported data repository (www.physionet.org/), and one of us (Yu-wen Chen, Certification Number: 28341490). All methods were carried out in accordance with the institutional guidelines and regulations.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 10-10-2018
Abstract: Several studies have demonstrated a link between post-traumatic stress disorder and myocardial infarction. We aim to determine what phenotypic features or symptom profile associated with cardiovascular disease may help with early detection and intervention. This is a cross-sectional study. The study population comprises trauma-exposed Vietnam War veterans. Variables significantly associated with myocardial infarction from the bivariate analysis were avoidance memories, avoidance reminders and sleep disturbance. These variables were put into a logistic regression with known risk factors for myocardial infarction. Only sleep disturbance retained its effect, with a p-value of 0.015. It is concluded that sleep disturbance may be a modifiable risk factor in the treatment and prevention of myocardial infarction.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 15-05-2019
Abstract: The Stroke Recovery and Rehabilitation Roundtable (SRRR) meetings bring together an international group of preclinical and clinical researchers along with statisticians, methodologists, funders and consumers, working to accelerate the development of effective treatments for stroke recovery and to support best-evidence uptake in rehabilitation practice. The first meeting (2016) focused on four recommendation areas: translation of preclinical evidence into human discovery trials recovery biomarkers to provide knowledge of therapeutic targets and prognosis in human stroke intervention development, monitoring, and reporting standards and standardized measurement in motor recovery trials. The impact of SRRR is growing, with uptake of recommendations emerging, and funders exploring ways to incorporate research targets and recommendations. At our second meeting (SRRR2, 2018), we worked on new priority areas: (1) cognitive impairment, (2) standardizing metrics for measuring quality of movement, (3) improving development of recovery trials, and (4) moving evidence-based treatments into practice. To accelerate progress towards breakthrough treatments, formation of an International Stroke Recovery and Rehabilitation Alliance is our next step, where working groups will take recommendations and build partnerships needed to achieve our goals.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.JAD.2012.10.013
Abstract: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depressive disorder are over represented in combat veterans. Veterans with both disorders have an increased risk of suicide. The nitric oxide synthase 1 adaptor protein (NOS1AP) gene, which modulates stress-evoked N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) activity, was investigated in combat veterans. A comprehensive genetic analysis of NOS1AP and its association with PTSD was investigated in Vietnam combat veterans with PTSD (n=121) and a group of healthy control in iduals (n=237). PTSD patients were assessed for symptom severity and level of depression using the Mississippi Scale for Combat-Related PTSD and the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI). The G allele of NOS1AP SNP rs386231 was significantly associated with PTSD (p=0.002). Analysis of variance revealed significant differences in BDI-II and Mississippi scores between genotypes for rs386231 with the GG genotype associated with increased severity of depression (p=0.002 F=6.839) and higher Mississippi Scale for Combat-Related PTSD scores (p=0.033). Haplotype analysis revealed that the C/G haplotype (rs451275/rs386231) was significantly associated with PTSD (p=0.001). The s le sizes in our study were not sufficient to detect SNP associations with very small effects. In addition the study was limited by its cross sectional design. This is the first study reporting that a variant of the NOS1AP gene is associated with PTSD. Our data also suggest that a genetic variant in NOS1AP may increase the susceptibility to severe depression in patients with PTSD and increased risk for suicide.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2000
DOI: 10.1016/S0306-4603(99)00004-0
Abstract: The potential tension reduction effects of alcohol may be most appropriately tested by examining the role of alcohol related beliefs regarding alcohol's anxiolytic properties. The relationship between affective change drinking refusal self-efficacy, tension reduction alcohol expectancies, and ongoing drinking behavior was examined amongst 57 regular drinkers. Alcohol consumption, antecedent, and consequent mood states were monitored prospectively by diary, Social learning theory hypothesizes that low drinking refusal self-efficacy when experiencing a negative mood state should be associated with more frequent drinking when tense. Strong alcohol expectancies of tension reduction were hypothesized to predict subsequent tension reduction. Contrary to this hypothesis, the present study found that alcohol expectancies were more strongly related to antecedent mood states. Only a weak relationship between drinking refusal self-efficacy and predrinking tension, and between alcohol expectancy and subsequent tension reduction, was evident.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.ADDBEH.2010.08.025
Abstract: Alcohol-related implicit (preconscious) cognitive processes are established and unique predictors of alcohol use, but most research in this area has focused on alcohol-related implicit cognition and anxiety. This study extends this work into the area of depressed mood by testing a cognitive model that combines traditional explicit (conscious and considered) beliefs, implicit alcohol-related memory associations (AMAs), and self-reported drinking behavior. Using a s le of 106 university students, depressed mood was manipulated using a musical mood induction procedure immediately prior to completion of implicit then explicit alcohol-related cognition measures. A bootstrapped two-group (weak/strong expectancies of negative affect and tension reduction) structural equation model was used to examine how mood changes and alcohol-related memory associations varied across groups. Expectancies of negative affect moderated the association of depressed mood and AMAs, but there was no such association for tension reduction expectancy. Subtle mood changes may unconsciously trigger alcohol-related memories in vulnerable in iduals. Results have implications for addressing subtle fluctuations in depressed mood among young adults at risk of alcohol problems.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.JPSYCHIRES.2019.06.001
Abstract: In this study we investigated genome-wide sperm DNA methylation patterns in trauma-exposed Vietnam veterans. At the genome-wide level, we identified 3 CpG sites associated with PTSD in sperm including two intergenic and one CpG within the CCDC88C gene. Of those associated with PTSD in sperm at a nominal level, 1868 CpGs were also associated with PTSD in peripheral blood (5.6% overlap) including the RORA, CRHR1 and DOCK2 genes that have been previously implicated in PTSD. A total of 10 CpG sites were significantly associated with a reported history of a diagnosed mental health condition in children and reached genome-wide significance. CpGs associated with a history of a reported mental health condition in children were also enriched (90% of tested genes) for genes previously reported to be resistant to demethylation, making them strong candidates for transgenerational inheritance. In conclusion, our findings identify a unique sperm-specific DNA methylation pattern that is associated with PTSD.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2020
DOI: 10.1016/J.GENE.2019.144163
Abstract: Previous studies have established that coronary artery disease is associated with excess inflammation. These studies have shown an elevation of both pro and anti-inflammatory cytokines in sufferers of coronary artery disease. There is increasing interest in the role played by the inflammasome Nod Like Receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) in the aetiology of coronary artery disease. Increased severity of coronary artery disease correlates with higher levels of expression of NLRP3. Does NLRP3 polymorphisms play a role in the aetiology of coronary artery disease? In a cohort of Vietnam War (n-299) veterans who have been previously exposed to trauma, NLRP3 polymorphisms were analysed for association with coronary calcium scores using analyses of variance. Independent t-test was used to analyse genotypes. In s les with a small representation of minor homozygotes, genotypes were combined and analysed using independent t-test. If any of the genotype analysis suggested the potential for a dominant or a recessive model the model was further explored. Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium was calculated using Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium calculator including analysis for ascertainment bias. The NLRP3 polymorphism, rs10159239 was significantly associated (p = 0.001) with a higher raised coronary calcium score. The Single Nucleotide Polymorphism rs10159239 was examined by logistic regression with known risk factors for Coronary artery disease and remained significant (0.035). This is the first time rs10159239 A-allele has been associated with raised coronary calcium score. This is the first time rs10159239 A-allele has been associated with raised coronary calcium score. Further research is needed to replicate our results in larger well-characterised cohorts.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.DRUGALCDEP.2018.09.032
Abstract: The bioSocial Cognitive Theory (bSCT) hypothesizes two pathways linking dimensions of impulsivity to substance use. The first predicts that the association between reward sensitivity and substance use is mediated by positive outcome expectancies. The second predicts that the relationship between rash impulsiveness and substance use is mediated by refusal self-efficacy. This model has received empirical support in studies of alcohol use. The present research provides the first application of bSCT to a cannabis treatment population and aims to extend its utility to understanding cannabis use and severity of dependence. 273 patients referred for cannabis treatment completed a clinical assessment that contained measures of interest. A public hospital alcohol and drug clinic. The Sensitivity to Reward Scale, Dysfunctional Impulsivity Scale, Cannabis Expectancy Questionnaire, Cannabis Refusal Self-Efficacy Questionnaire and Severity of Dependence Scale-Cannabis were completed, along with measures of cannabis consumption. The bSCT model provided a good fit to the data for cannabis use and severity of dependence outcomes. The association between reward sensitivity and each cannabis outcome was fully mediated by positive cannabis expectancies and cannabis refusal self-efficacy. The relationship between rash impulsiveness and each cannabis outcome was fully mediated by cannabis refusal self-efficacy. Findings support the application of the bSCT model to cannabis use and dependence severity and highlight the important role of social cognitive mechanisms in understanding the association between impulsivity traits and these outcomes. The differential association of impulsivity traits to social cognition may assist targeted treatment efforts.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.DRUGALCDEP.2016.11.005
Abstract: Relatively few cannabis dependent in iduals seek treatment and little is known about the determinants of treatment seeking. Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) provides a useful framework for examining human behaviour and motivation which may be helpful in explaining treatment seeking. This study examined the differences in cannabis outcome expectancies and cannabis refusal self-efficacy between treatment seekers and non-treatment seekers with cannabis dependence. Non-treatment seekers were referred to an illicit drug ersion program. Treatment seekers commenced an outpatient cannabis treatment program and completed a comprehensive assessment that included measures of cannabis outcome expectancies and refusal self-efficacy. A public hospital alcohol and drug outpatient clinic. 269 non-treatment seekers and 195 in iduals commencing cannabis dependence treatment. The Cannabis Expectancy Questionnaire (CEQ), Cannabis Refusal Self-Efficacy Questionnaire (CRSEQ), Severity of Dependence Scale - Cannabis (SDS-C), General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28) and Readiness to Change Questionnaire (RTC) were completed. Treatment seekers had significantly higher levels of negative cannabis outcome expectancies and significantly lower levels of emotional relief refusal self-efficacy (belief in ability to resist using cannabis when experiencing negative affect) (ps<0.001). Treatment seekers had significantly higher levels of psychological distress and self-perceived cannabis dependence compared to non-treatment seekers (ps<0.001). High negative cannabis outcome expectancies and low emotional relief refusal self-efficacy may play a key role in motivation to seek treatment.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2004
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 19-12-2010
DOI: 10.2196/JMIR.1479
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.JPSYCHIRES.2010.09.014
Abstract: Previous studies yielded evidence for dysbindin (DTNBP1) to impact the pathogenesis of schizophrenia on the one hand and affective disorders such as bipolar or major depressive disorder (MDD) on the other. Thus, in the present study we investigated whether DTNBP1 variation was associated with psychotic depression as a severe clinical manifestation of MDD possibly constituting an overlapping phenotype between affective disorders and schizophrenia. A s le of 243 Caucasian inpatients with MDD (SCID-I) was genotyped for 12 SNPs spanning 92% of the DTNBP1 gene region. Differences in DTNBP1 genotype distributions across diagnostic subgroups of psychotic (N = 131) vs. non-psychotic depression were estimated by Pearson Chi(2) test and logistic regression analyses adjusted for age, gender, Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and the Global Assessment of Functioning Scale (GAF). Overall, patients with psychotic depression presented with higher BDI and lower GAF scores expressing a higher severity of the illness as compared to depressed patients without psychotic features. Four DTNBP1 SNPs, particularly rs1997679 and rs9370822, and the corresponding haplotypes, respectively, were found to be significantly associated with the risk of psychotic depression in an allele-dose fashion. In summary, the present results provide preliminary support for dysbindin (DTNBP1) gene variation, particularly SNPs rs1997679 and rs9370822, to be associated with the clinical phenotype of psychotic depression suggesting a possible neurobiological mechanism for an intermediate trait on the continuum between affective disorders and schizophrenia.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 16-02-2014
DOI: 10.1111/ADD.12472
Abstract: Research into craving is h ered by lack of theoretical specification and a plethora of substance-specific measures. This study aimed to develop a generic measure of craving based on elaborated intrusion (EI) theory. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) examined whether a generic measure replicated the three-factor structure of the Alcohol Craving Experience (ACE) scale over different consummatory targets and time-frames. Twelve studies were pooled for CFA. Targets included alcohol, cigarettes, chocolate and food. Focal periods varied from the present moment to the previous week. Separate analyses were conducted for strength and frequency forms. Nine studies included university students, with single studies drawn from an internet survey, a community s le of smokers and alcohol-dependent out-patients. A heterogeneous s le of 1230 participants. Adaptations of the ACE questionnaire. Both craving strength [comparative fit indices (CFI = 0.974 root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) = 0.039, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.035-0.044] and frequency (CFI = 0.971, RMSEA = 0.049, 95% CI = 0.044-0.055) gave an acceptable three-factor solution across desired targets that mapped onto the structure of the original ACE (intensity, imagery, intrusiveness), after removing an item, re-allocating another and taking intercorrelated error terms into account. Similar structures were obtained across time-frames and targets. Preliminary validity data on the resulting 10-item Craving Experience Questionnaire (CEQ) for cigarettes and alcohol were strong. The Craving Experience Questionnaire (CEQ) is a brief, conceptually grounded and psychometrically sound measure of desires. It demonstrates a consistent factor structure across a range of consummatory targets in both laboratory and clinical contexts.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 19-05-2020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2010
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.EJVS.2013.05.023
Abstract: To measure the radiation exposure of the operating team during endovascular aortic procedures, and to determine factors that predict high exposures. Electronic dosimeters placed over and under protective lead garments, were used to prospectively record radiation exposure during endovascular aortic repairs performed in a designated interventional radiology suite. Univariate and multivariate linear regression analyses of predictors of radiation exposure were performed. A total of 26 infra-renal and 10 thoracic endovascular cases were studied. Median (IQR) patient age and body mass index were 76.0 (70.0-81.8) years and 26.2 (23.9-28.9) kg/m(2) respectively. Over-lead exposure to the operator was higher for thoracic than for infra-renal procedures (421.0 [233.8-597.8] μSv vs. 52.5 [27.8-179.8] μSv, p = .0003), reflecting a significant exposure to unprotected parts of the body. Under-lead exposures for operator and assistant were 5.5 (2.0-14.2) μSv and 1.0 (0.0-2.3) μSv respectively, which for an average caseload would comply with total body effective dose limits. Type of case and percentage of digital subtraction angiography (DSA) time in left anterior oblique angulations predicted dose to the operator (p < .0001). Thoracic procedures, DSA runs and obliquity of the C-arm are strong predictors of radiation exposure during endovascular aortic repairs. Understanding scatter radiation dynamics and instigating measures to minimise radiation exposure should be mandatory.
Publisher: Alcohol Research Documentation, Inc.
Date: 2000
Abstract: The relationship between expectancies and other psychological constructs related to drinking is unclear. The current study assesses the power of drinking restraint, measured by the Temptation and Restraint Inventory (TRI), along with alcohol expectancy and drinking refusal self-efficacy, measured by the Drinking Expectancy Profile (DEP), as indicators of alcohol use and problem drinking. Volunteer students (N = 359), consisting of 113 men with a mean (+/-SD) age of 25.31 +/- 10.61 years and 246 women with a mean age of 23.04 +/- 8.90, completed the TRI, DEP and Alcohol Dependence Scale (ADS) as well as frequency and quantity measures of self-reported drinking. Drinking Restraint was a stronger indicator of higher scores on the ADS, accounting for 54% and 45% of the variance for men and women, respectively, with Alcohol Expectancies and Drinking Refusal Self-Efficacy being the better indicator of frequency of alcohol consumption, accounting for 20% of the variance for men and 26% for women. Both measures were represented by similar variances within the quantity of drinking measure. Drinking restraint and alcohol expectancies were seen to measure kindred but unique cognitive subsets, providing further insight into the progression of alcohol problems. Alcohol expectancies and drinking refusal self-efficacy may be acquired early in the development of drinking behavior, as evidenced by stronger associations with risky drinking drinking restraint and its associated loss of control factors appear to be more specifically related to problem drinking. Alcohol expectancy and drinking refusal self-efficacy may thus have broader use in the assessment of drinking behavior.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2011
Abstract: It is well established that COMT is a strong candidate gene for substance use disorder and schizophrenia. Recently we identified two SNPs in COMT (rs4680 and rs165774) that are associated with schizophrenia in an Australian cohort. In iduals with schizophrenia were more than twice as likely to carry the GG genotype compared to the AA genotype for both the rs165774 and rs4680 SNPs. Association of both rs4680 and rs165774 with substance dependence, a common comorbidity of schizophrenia has not been investigated. To determine whether COMT is important in substance dependence, rs165774 and rs4680 were genotyped and haplotyped in patients with nicotine, alcohol and opiate dependence. The rs165774 SNP was associated with alcohol dependence. However, it was not associated with nicotine or opiate dependence. In iduals with alcohol dependence were more than twice as likely to carry the GG or AG genotypes compared to the AA genotype, indicating a dominant mode of inheritance. The rs4680 SNP showed a weak association with alcohol dependence at the allele level that did not reach significance at the genotype level but it was not associated with nicotine or opiate dependence. Analysis of rs165774/rs4680 haplotypes also revealed association with alcohol dependence with the G/G haplotype being almost 1.5 times more common in alcohol-dependent cases. Our study provides further support for the importance of the COMT in alcohol dependence in addition to schizophrenia. It is possible that the rs165774 SNP, in combination with rs4680, results in a common molecular variant of COMT that contributes to schizophrenia and alcohol dependence susceptibility. This is potentially important for future studies of comorbidity. As our participant numbers are limited our observations should be viewed with caution until they are independently replicated.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 1986
DOI: 10.1016/0306-4603(86)90049-3
Abstract: Sixty drinkers were assigned to three experimental groups which manipulated pre and post drug state. Subjects on learning trials were exposed to 30 slides, composed of geometrical shapes and alcohol-related self-statements. On the day following learning, subjects were required to try and recognise the 30 original slides out of 60 test slides. Signal detection method was used to analyse differences between the groups. Results showed that medium drinkers who consumed an experimental dose similar to their usual dose showed state dependency over both stimuli. Light drinkers showed an impairment on all alcohol-related conditions but alcohol on learning primed the recognition of alcohol-associated stimuli. Heavy drinkers, who drank a dose that was lower than their usual dose, showed little effect. The findings thus showed the importance of controlling for the level of tolerance and the type of stimuli presented in the State Dependent Learning experiments.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 10-2015
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2007
DOI: 10.1016/J.ADDBEH.2007.04.024
Abstract: Factors associated with cannabis use among people with psychosis are not well understood. To examine whether people with psychosis and age-matched controls modified cannabis use in response to recent experiences. This study predicted 4 weeks of cannabis use prospectively, using expectancies derived from recent occasions of use. People with psychosis used cannabis less frequently than controls, but had more cannabis-related problems. More negative cannabis expectancies resulted in less frequent cannabis use over Follow-up. The psychosis group was more likely to moderate cannabis use after negative effects than controls. Results offer optimism about abilities of people with psychosis to moderate cannabis use in the short term.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 24-05-2016
DOI: 10.1111/DAR.12413
Abstract: This study investigated the extent to which parental monitoring and parental disapproval of alcohol use account for the association between country of birth and adolescent alcohol use. The s le consisted of 10 273 adolescents from grades 7 (Mean age = 12.5 years), 9 (14.5 years) and 11 (16.4 years) in Victoria, Australia. Participants completed a questionnaire during class time. Mediation analyses were performed to examine the extent to which parental monitoring and parental disapproval of alcohol use accounted for variations in past 30 day alcohol use between Australian-born and immigrant adolescents. Alcohol use in the past 30 days ranged from 8.0% to 44.4% for participants from different countries/regions of birth. Those born in Asia (odds ratio 0.20-0.51, P < 0.05) and Africa (odds ratio 0.45, P < 0.01) were much less likely to have consumed alcohol compared to those born in Australia. Adolescents from these two regions (except for Western Asia) reported higher levels of parental monitoring and parental disapproval of alcohol use (P < 0.05). Higher levels of parental monitoring and parental disapproval of alcohol use partially mediated the association between birth place and alcohol use (P < 0.05). There were large variations in alcohol use between Australian-born and immigrant adolescents from different countries/regions. Adolescents from Asia or Africa were much less likely to consume alcohol, and this protective effect was partially accounted for by parental monitoring and disapproval of alcohol use.[Chan GCK, Kelly AB, Connor JP, Hall WD, Young RM, Williams JW. Does parental monitoring and disapproval explain variations in alcohol use among adolescents from different countries of birth? Drug Alcohol Rev 2016 :741-749].
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 17-11-2015
DOI: 10.1038/TP.2015.177
Abstract: Epigenetics plays a crucial role in schizophrenia susceptibility. In a previous study, we identified over 4500 differentially methylated sites in prefrontal cortex (PFC) s les from schizophrenia patients. We believe this was the first genome-wide methylation study performed on human brain tissue using the Illumina Infinium HumanMethylation450 Bead Chip. To understand the biological significance of these results, we sought to identify a smaller number of differentially methylated regions (DMRs) of more functional relevance compared with in idual differentially methylated sites. Since our schizophrenia whole genome methylation study was performed, another study analysing two separate data sets of post-mortem tissue in the PFC from schizophrenia patients has been published. We analysed all three data sets using the bumphunter function found in the Bioconductor package minfi to identify regions that are consistently differentially methylated across distinct cohorts. We identified seven regions that are consistently differentially methylated in schizophrenia, despite considerable heterogeneity in the methylation profiles of patients with schizophrenia. The regions were near CERS3 , DPPA5 , PRDM9, DDX43, REC8 , LY6G5C and a region on chromosome 10. Of particular interest is PRDM9 which encodes a histone methyltransferase that is essential for meiotic recombination and is known to tag genes for epigenetic transcriptional activation. These seven DMRs are likely to be key epigenetic factors in the aetiology of schizophrenia and normal brain neurodevelopment.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 27-12-2011
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2019
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 09-2008
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 05-05-2011
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 09-2002
Abstract: The frequency of the Taq I A alleles (A1 and A2) of the D2 dopamine receptor (DRD2) gene was examined in Caucasian post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) patients and controls. In 91 PTSD patients, the frequency of the A1 allele was higher (P = 6.12 x 10(-3)) than in the 51 controls. In the 38 PTSD harmful drinkers (>or=60 g alcohol/day), A1 allelic frequency was higher (P = 3.91 x 10(-2)) than in the 53 non-harmful drinkers (<60 g alcohol/day), the former being also higher (P = 3.76 x 10(-4)) than in controls. However, there was no difference between non-harmful drinkers and controls. Based on DRD2 allelic association, the 35 PTSD patients with the A1(+) (A1A1, A1A2) allele consumed more than twice the daily amount of alcohol than the 56 patients with the A1(-) (A2A2) allele (P = 1.94 x 10(-3)). When the hourly rate of alcohol consumed was compared, A1(+) allelic patients consumed twice the rate of the A1(-) allelic patients (P < 10(-7)). The DRD2 A1 allele was associated with PTSD. However, this association was found only in the harmful drinkers. PTSD patients with the A1(+) allele consumed more alcohol than patients with the A1(-) allele. The importance of determining alcohol consumption in DRD2 association studies with PTSD is suggested.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 05-06-2019
DOI: 10.1093/HER/CYZ019
Abstract: Alcohol use is common among Vietnamese students. Previous qualitative findings showed Vietnamese medical students believed they were not binge drinkers while reporting many binge drinking occasions they participated in or witnessed. This dichotomy warrants examination. This study aims to establish drinking patterns and examine the factors underlying Vietnamese medical students’ binge drinking intention and behaviour. This study used a prospective-correlational design, with two waves of data collection, drawing from established health behaviour models. At Time 1, 206 students completed the Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test, the standard Theory of Planned Behaviour measures (attitude, subjective norm and perceived behavioural control) and their underlying beliefs, as well as group norm, role identity, drinking culture and past binge drinking behaviour. At Time 2, 156 medical students reported their binge drinking behaviour 2 weeks later. Only 6.8% of participants were classified as problematic drinkers and few participants reported binge drinking occasions at the 2-week follow-up. Perceived behavioural control, friends’ group norms, role identity as future doctors, and past behaviour significantly predicted binge drinking intentions and key beliefs were identified. This study indicated Vietnamese medical students’ limited engagement with binge drinking and identified key factors to address for those with risky drinking behaviour intentions.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.ADDBEH.2011.05.004
Abstract: Despite considerable recent interest in the issue of comorbid substance use disorders in people with serious mental illness, there remains a need to refine approaches to screening. This paper describes the development and testing of a new screen for substance-related comorbidity, the 12-item DrugCheck Problem List (PL). Exploratory factor analysis with inpatient s les suggested a single-factor structure, although confirmatory factor analysis in a further s le found similar fit from a two-factor model. Sensitivity and specificity in detecting DSM-IV substance use disorders were both high and comparable to performances of the Severity of Dependence Scale and Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (Australian version). The list of problem areas provided by the PL has utility in driving further assessment and treatment planning, and offers suggested foci for motivational interviewing. While further testing is indicated, these data provide strong initial support for its use.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 11-2010
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2014
Publisher: Springer New York
Date: 2010
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2009
DOI: 10.1016/J.ADDBEH.2009.04.014
Abstract: This study aimed to develop and assess the reliability and validity of a pair of self-report questionnaires to measure self-efficacy and expectancy associated with benzodiazepine use, the Benzodiazepine Refusal Self-Efficacy Questionnaire (BRSEQ) and the Benzodiazepine Expectancy Questionnaire (BEQ). Internal structure of the questionnaires was established by principal component analysis (PCA) in a s le of 155 respondents, and verified by confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) in a second independent s le (n=139) using structural equation modeling. The PCA of the BRSEQ resulted in a 16-item, 4-factor scale, and the BEQ formed an 18-item, 2-factor scale. Both scales were internally reliable. CFA confirmed these internal structures and reduced the questionnaires to a 14-item self-efficacy scale and a 12-item expectancy scale. Lower self-efficacy and higher expectancy were moderately associated with higher scores on the SDS-B. The scales provide reliable measures for assessing benzodiazepine self-efficacy and expectancies. Future research will examine the utility of the scales in prospective prediction of benzodiazepine cessation.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 16-08-2018
Abstract: There are some psychosocial factors that have similar importance to biological factors in the genesis of coronary diseases. However, reasons for high rates of coronary heart disease in in iduals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are yet to be fully elucidated. Using a meta-analysis, we investigated the longitudinal relationship between PTSD and coronary heart disease (CHD) as an independent factor in the aetiology of CHD. The databases of Medline, EBSCOhost and Psychoinfo were electronically searched for relevant articles. The pooled hazard ratio (HR) for the magnitude of the relationship between PTSD and CHD was an HR of 1.61, and p-value of p 0.0005, 95% confidence interval (CI) [1.46–1.77] before adjustment for depression in nine studies ( N = 151,144) that met inclusion criteria. The HR estimates for the seven depression-adjusted estimates was 1.46, and a p-value of p 0.0005, 95% CI[0.26–1.69]. This study demonstrates an association between CHD and PTSD.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2008
Publisher: The Endocrine Society
Date: 04-2011
DOI: 10.1210/JC.2010-2603
Abstract: Plasma aldosterone to renin ratio (ARR) is the most popular screening test for primary aldosteronism (PAL). Certain medications are known to cause false-negative or -positive ARRs by affecting renin and aldosterone levels. There are no previously published data on the effects of antidepressants on ARR. Normotensive, depressed male patients (n = 26) underwent measurement (seated, midmorning) of plasma aldosterone, direct renin concentration (DRC), renin activity (PRA), electrolytes and creatinine and urinary aldosterone, cortisol, electrolytes, and creatinine at baseline and after 2 and 6 wk treatment with sertraline (n = 14) or escitalopram (n = 12). For both antidepressants, treatment was associated with rises in aldosterone [sertraline: baseline, mean ± sd, 243 ± 34 2 wk, 256 ± 33 6 wk, 267 ± 34 pmol/liter (P < 0.01 by ANOVA) escitalopram, 261 ± 36, 269 ± 38, 282 ± 40 pmol/liter (P < 0.05)], DRC [19.5 ± 2.2, 33.5 ± 2.0, 39.0 ± 2.4 mU/liter (P < 0.001) 24.5 ± 2.4, 34.0 ± 2.7, 42.8 ± 2.4 mU/liter (P < 0.001)], and PRA [2.24 ± 0.21, 2.58 ± 0.26, 4.68 ± 0.42 ng/ml · h (P < 0.001) 4.31 ± 0.22, 5.57 ± 0.36, 6.42 ± 0.53 ng/ml · h (P < 0.001)]. ARR fell significantly whether calculated using DRC [sertraline, 13.7 ± 2.2, 7.5 ± 0.7, 6.8 ± 0.7 (P < 0.001) escitalopram, 11.5 ± 1.9, 8.0 ± 1.1, 6.6 ± 1.0 (P < 0.001)], or PRA [116.6 ± 15.8, 108.4 ± 15.6, 60.4 ± 6.2 (P < 0.001) 61.2 ± 8.1, 50.0 ± 7.7, 45.6 ± 6.0 (P < 0.01)]. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressants can significantly reduce ARR and therefore potentially increase the risk of false-negative results when screening for PAL. Further studies in hypertensive patients, including patients with confirmed PAL, are required.
Publisher: Elsevier
Date: 2019
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.JSAT.2019.01.020
Abstract: Clinical staff providing addiction treatment predict patient outcome poorly. Prognoses based on linear statistics are rarely replicated. Addiction is a complex non-linear behavior. Incorporating non-linear models, Machine Learning (ML) has successfully predicted treatment outcome when applied in other areas of medicine. Using identical assessment data across the two groups, this study compares the accuracy of ML models versus clinical staff to predict alcohol dependence treatment outcome in behavior therapy using patient data only. Machine learning models (n = 28) were constructed ('trained') using demographic and psychometric assessment data from 780 previously treated patients who had undertaken a 12 week, abstinence-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy program for alcohol dependence. Independent predictions applying assessment data for an additional 50 consecutive patients were obtained from 10 experienced addiction therapists and the 28 trained ML models. The predictive accuracy of the ML models and the addiction therapists was then compared with further investigation of the 10 best models selected by cross-validated accuracy on the training-set. Variables selected as important for prediction by staff and the most accurate ML model were examined. The most accurate ML model (Fuzzy Unordered Rule Induction Algorithm, 74%) was significantly more accurate than the four least accurate clinical staff (51%-40%). However, the robustness of this finding may be limited by the moderate area under the receiver operator curve (AUC = 0.49). There was no significant difference in mean aggregate predictive accuracy between 10 clinical staff (56.1%) and the 28 best models (58.57%). Addiction therapists favoured demographic and consumption variables compared with the ML model using more questionnaire subscales. The majority of staff and ML models were not more accurate than suggested by chance. However, the best performing prediction models may provide useful adjunctive information to standard clinically available prognostic data to more effectively target treatment approaches in clinical settings.
Publisher: Massachusetts Medical Society
Date: 14-09-2017
DOI: 10.1056/NEJMC1709517
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 23-01-2009
DOI: 10.1111/J.1399-0004.2008.01101.X
Abstract: Debate continues as to why executive function (EF) continues to show impairments in children with early and continuously treated phenylketonuria (ECT-PKU). Using a mixed model, we measured EF in 10 adolescent children with ECT-PKU and 6 sibling controls, and examined associations between EF and (1) phenylalanine (phe) and (2) the phenylalanine : tyrosine ratio (phe : tyr). Measurements were taken on two occasions anticipated to yield variation in concurrent biochemistry resulting from changes in dietary compliance (i.e. holiday vs non-holiday period). A repeated measures anova using the Behaviour Rating Inventory of Executive Function yielded the following results: no significant interactions two significant group effects of substantially impaired working memory and initiation skills in children with ECT-PKU compared with controls, irrespective of occasion and two significant time effects, suggestive of slightly poorer non-holiday planning and organization scores in both groups. Further analyses revealed that phe levels were not significantly different on these occasions, suggesting that holiday dietary compliance may be better than expected. Correlations between EF and biochemistry in children with PKU showed that participant's lifetime phe : tyr ratio was positively and significantly associated with EF impairment, more so than phe-only measures.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2006
DOI: 10.1016/J.SOCSCIMED.2005.07.016
Abstract: Effectively assisting benzodiazepine users to cease use requires a greater understanding of general practitioners' (GPs) and benzodiazepine users' views on using and ceasing benzodiazepines. This paper reports the findings from a qualitative study that examined the views of 28 GPs and 23 benzodiazepine users (BUs) in Cairns, Australia. A semi-structured interview was conducted with all participants and the information gained was analysed using the Consensual Qualitative Research Approach, which allowed comparisons to be made between the views of the two groups of interviewees. There was commonality between GPs and BUs on reasons for commencing benzodiazepines, the role of dependence in continued use, and the importance of lifestyle change in its cessation. However, several differences emerged regarding commencement of use and processes of cessation. In particular, users felt there was greater need for GPs to routinely advise patients about non-pharmacological management of their problems and potential adverse consequences of long-term use before commencing benzodiazepines. Cessation could be discussed with all patients who use benzodiazepines for longer than 3 months, strategies offered to assist in management of withdrawal and anxiety, and referral to other health service providers for additional support. Lifestyle change could receive greater focus at all stages of treatment.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 08-2001
DOI: 10.1046/J.1440-1614.2001.00935.X
Abstract: Objective: Cognitive–behavioural therapy (CBT) has been effectively used in the treatment of alcohol dependence. Clinical studies report that the anticraving drug naltrexone, is a useful adjunct to treatment. Currently, few data are available on the impact of adding this medication to programmes in more typical, outpatient, and rehabilitation settings. The objective of this study was to examine the impact on outcome of adding naltrexone to an established outpatient alcohol rehabilitation program which employed CBT. Method: Fifty patients participated in an established 12-week, outpatient, ‘contract’-based alcohol abstinence programme which employed CBT. They also received naltrexone 50 mg orally daily (CBT + naltrexone). Outcomes were compared with 50 historical, matched controls, all of whom participated in the same programme without an anticraving medication (CBT alone). All patients met DSM-IV criteria for alcohol dependence. Results: Programme attendance across the eight treatment sessions was lower in the CBT alone group (p 0.001). Relapse to alcohol use occurred sooner and more frequently in the CBT alone group (p 0.001). Rehabilitation programme completion at 12 weeks was 88% (CBT + naltrexone) compared with 36% for (CBT alone) (p 0.001). Alcohol abstinence at 12 weeks was 76% (CBT + naltrexone) compared with 18% (CBT alone) (p 0.001). Conclusion: When employing the same outpatient rehabilitation programme and comparing outcomes using matched historical controls, the addition of naltrexone substantially improves programme attendance, programme completion and reported alcohol abstinence. In a typical outpatient programme, naltrexone addition was associated with significantly improved programme participation, better outcomes and was well tolerated.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2021
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 23-06-2020
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 28-04-2008
DOI: 10.1111/J.1530-0277.2008.00668.X
Abstract: The Obsessive Compulsive Drinking Scale [OCDS Anton et al., Alcohol Clin Exp Res 19 (1995), 92] is the most widely used measure of alcohol craving. There are no studies which comprehensively investigate the construct and concurrent validity of the OCDS in a severe alcohol dependent population. Three hundred and seventy alcohol-dependent patients were referred to a hospital-based alcohol treatment program. All participants completed the OCDS, the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test [AUDIT Saunders et al., Addiction 88 (1993), 791] and provided demographic and alcohol consumption data. The s le was randomly split into 2. Exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis were conducted on these subs les. Both analyses identified a 4-factor solution (compulsions, interference, obsessions and resisting obsessions). All factors showed sound internal consistency. Neither the factor scores nor the total OCDS score was related to baseline alcohol problems (AUDIT) or consumption. There was some support for the construct validity of the OCDS in this clinical group. Concurrent validity of the scale was not supported by these cross-sectional data. Future research should examine the predictive utility of the OCDS over time.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 11-05-2012
Abstract: As recent conflicting reports describe a genetic association between both the C- and the T-alleles of the dopamine D2 receptor (DRD2) C957T polymorphism (rs6277) in alcohol-dependent subjects, our aim was to examine this polymorphism and TaqIA (rs1800497) in Australian alcohol-dependent subjects. The C957T polymorphism was genotyped in 228 patients with alcohol dependence (72 females and 156 males) and 228 healthy controls. The C-allele and C/C genotype of C957T was associated with alcohol dependence, whereas the TaqIA polymorphism was not. When analysed separately for C957T, males showed an even stronger association with the C-allele and females showed no association. The C957T and TaqIA haplotyping revealed a strong association with alcohol dependence and a double-genotype analysis (combining C957T and TaqIA genotypes) revealed that the relative risk of different genotypes varied by up to 27-fold with the TT/A1A2 having an 8.5-fold lower risk of alcohol dependence than other genotypes. Decreased DRD2 binding associated with the C-allele of the DRD2 C957T polymorphism is likely to be important in the underlying pathophysiology of at least some forms of alcohol dependence, and this effect appears to be limited to males only.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2005
DOI: 10.1016/J.DRUGALCDEP.2004.11.010
Abstract: The drinking refusal self-efficacy questionnaire (DRSEQ) assesses a person's belief in their ability to resist alcohol. The DRSEQ is a sound psychometric instrument based on exploratory factor analyses, but has not been subjected to confirmatory factor analysis. In total 2773 participants were used to confirm the factor structure of the DRSEQ. Initial analyses revealed that the original structure was not confirmed in the current study. Subsequent analyses resulted in a revised factor structure (DRSEQ-R) being confirmed in community, student and clinical s les. The DRSEQ-R was also found to have good construct and concurrent validity. The factor structure of the DRSEQ-R is more stable than the original structure of the DRSEQ and the revised scale has considerable potential in future alcohol-related research.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.PSYCHRES.2009.09.015
Abstract: Confirmatory factor analyses were conducted to evaluate the factorial validity of the Toronto Alexithymia Scale in an alcohol-dependent s le. Several factor models were examined, but all models were rejected given their poor fit. A revision of the TAS-20 in alcohol-dependent populations may be needed.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 28-10-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.DRUGALCDEP.2010.08.014
Abstract: The C allele of a common polymorphism of the serotonin 2A receptor (HTR2A) gene, T102C, results in reduced synthesis of 5-HT2A receptors and has been associated with current smoking status in adults. The -1438A/G polymorphism, located in the regulatory region of this gene, is in linkage disequilibrium with T102C, and the A allele is associated with increased promoter activity and with smoking in adult males. We investigated the contributions of the HTR2A gene, chronic psychological stress, and impulsivity to the prediction of cigarette smoking status and dependence in young adults. T102C and -1438A/G genotyping was conducted on 132 healthy Caucasian young adults (47 smokers) who completed self-report measures of chronic stress, depressive symptoms, impulsive personality and cigarette use. A logistic regression analysis of current cigarette smoker user status, after adjusting for gender, depressive symptom severity and chronic stress, indicated that the T102C TT genotype relative to the CC genotype (OR=7.53), and lower punishment sensitivity (OR=0.91) were each significant predictive risk factors. However, for number of cigarettes smoked, only lower punishment sensitivity was a significant predictor (OR=0.81). These data indicate the importance of the T102C polymorphism to tobacco use but not number of cigarettes smoked for Caucasian young adults. Future studies should examine whether this is explained by effects of nicotine on the serotonin system. Lower punishment sensitivity increased risk of both smoking and of greater consumption, perhaps via a reduced sensitivity to cigarette health warnings and negative physiological effects.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 15-02-2001
DOI: 10.1046/J.1365-2710.2001.00326.X
Abstract: The anti-craving drug, naltrexone, is used as a pharmacotherapeutic adjunct in the treatment of alcohol dependence. In addictive disorders, compliance issues remain central. There are limited data on compliance with naltrexone treatment regimens within formalized rehabilitation programs and even less data that identifies factors that have an impact on this. To study patient adherence to naltrexone medication regimens and examine whether patients' reported pre-treatment alcohol use, dependence severity and measures of psychological health are predictive of medication compliance. Fifty outpatients meeting DSM IV criteria for alcohol dependence enrolled in a 12-week rehabilitation programme. This included cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and naltrexone, 50 mg orally daily. Measures included: pharmacy prescription pick-up including number of tablets dispensed, programme attendance and patient pre-treatment alcohol use variables. Measures of psychological health included somatic symptoms, anxiety, social dysfunction and depression as measured by the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28). Classifying the s le into compliant (> or = 90% medication pick-up) and less compliant groups, 66% of subjects were naltrexone-compliant. Pre-treatment alcohol use variables were not predictive of compliance. Although social dysfunction and depression tended towards poorer prescription filling, measures of psychological distress (GHQ-28) did not identify factors predictive of medication non-compliance. One patient withdrew from treatment because of naltrexone-induced dysphoria. Patients with alcohol dependence demonstrated high levels of anti-craving medication compliance, good rehabilitation programme participation and favourable outcomes. Naltrexone was well tolerated. Medication compliance in this study group compared well with those of other hospital populations with chronic disorders. Factors predictive of anti-craving medication compliance in alcohol dependence require further study.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 03-2002
DOI: 10.1016/S0924-9338(02)00625-9
Abstract: The A 1 allele of the D 2 dopamine receptor (DRD2) gene has been associated with alcohol dependence. However, the expression of this allele risk on the severity of drinking behavior in patients with alcohol dependence has not been systematically explored. The present study examines the association between DRD2 A 1 + (A 1 /A 1 and A 1 /A 2 genotypes) and A 1 – (A 2 /A 2 genotype) allele status and key drinking parameters in alcohol-dependent patients. A s le of Caucasian adults was recruited from an alcohol detoxification unit. A clinical interview and the Alcohol Dependence Scale (ADS) questionnaire provided data on consumption, dependence, chronology of drinking and prior detoxification. A 1 + allele compared to A 1 – allele patients consumed higher quantities of alcohol, commenced problem drinking at an earlier age, experienced a shorter latency between first introduction to alcohol to the onset of problem drinking and had higher ADS scores. Moreover, A 1 + allele patients had more detoxification attempts than their A 1 – allele counterparts. In sum, alcohol-dependent patients with the DRD2 A 1 allele compared to patients without this allele are characterized by greater severity of their disorder across a range of problem drinking indices. The implications of these findings are discussed.
Publisher: SciELO Espana/Repisalud
Date: 12-2014
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 19-12-2010
DOI: 10.2196/JMIR.1449
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 15-04-2011
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 30-12-2019
DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2018.1508298
Abstract: China is the world's largest tobacco consumer and its adolescent smoking rate is increasing. Smoking interventions among high school students are limited. The aim of this study was to deliver and evaluate a brief theory-based smoking intervention in China, with a focus on anti-smoking cognitions. The intervention was based on the constructs of an extended theory of planned behavior and life skills training. Using class-level randomization s ling, 106 tenth graders from two high schools in Kunming, China received a four-session intervention 101 students were assigned as control group members. Surveys were conducted at three time-points (1 week before the intervention, 1 week post-intervention, and 6 months post-intervention). MANOVA and latent class analysis were used to test the intervention's effectiveness and personal change trajectories over time. The intervention failed to change smoking behavior, intention or willingness, but improved anti-smoking attitudes and perceived control over smoking. Skills showed a general enhancement, consistent with participants' qualitative feedback. Trajectories of smoking behavior, intention, and willingness all assumed two distinct but constant latent classes independent of the intervention. This study suggests that addressing attitudinal and control beliefs among adolescents and building on assertiveness via additional strategies in life skills such as appropriate refusal skills may be beneficial. The absence of a successful change in subjective norm should be a focus for future anti-smoking programs in China.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2015
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 20-12-2007
DOI: 10.1111/J.1360-0443.2006.01669.X
Abstract: To determine the reliability and validity of the Severity of Dependence Scale (SDS) for detecting cannabis dependence in a large s le of in-patients with a schizophrenia spectrum disorder. Cross-sectional study. Participants were 153 in-patients with a schizophrenia spectrum disorder in Brisbane, Australia. Participants were administered the SDS for cannabis dependence in the past 12 months. The presence of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual Version-IV (DSM-IV) cannabis dependence in the previous 12 months was assessed using the Comprehensive International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI). The SDS had high levels of internal consistency and strong construct and concurrent validity. In iduals with a score of >or = 2 on the SDS were nearly 30 times more likely to have DSM-IV cannabis dependence. The SDS was the strongest predictor of DSM-IV cannabis dependence after controlling for other predictor variables. The SDS is a brief, valid and reliable screen for cannabis dependence among people with psychosis.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 02-11-2006
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 26-03-2020
DOI: 10.1111/ADD.15038
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 25-01-2018
DOI: 10.1093/NTR/NTX012
Abstract: China has the world's greatest number of smokers but theory-based smoking interventions are rare. To develop an effective intervention, understanding the determinants of Chinese adolescent smoking is crucial. The Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) is empirically supported to predict and assist in informing intervention strategies to change health-related behaviors. Based on the TPB, the elicitation of shared smoking beliefs among adolescents can inform future intervention designs among this at-risk population. We investigated the beliefs from six focus groups (N = 30) of one senior secondary school in Kunming, Yunnan Province, China. We used semi-structured questions based on the TPB framework, including prompts about behavioral (advantages and disadvantages), normative (important referents), and control (barriers and facilitators) beliefs. Following the Consensual Qualitative Research (CQR) methodology, data were discussed until consensus was reached. Auditing was undertaken by an external researcher. Seven domains (advantages, disadvantages, approvers, disapprovers, facilitators, barriers, and smoker images) were examined. Smoking as a gendered behavior, smoking as influenced by cultural and environmental contexts, smoking as a strategy to cope with stress, and awareness of the harm of smoking, are highlighted themes across domains. Data suggested an extended-TPB framework as an appropriate approach to adopt when addressing smoking beliefs among the target population. These beliefs can be utilized to inform future school-based interventions and public health c aigns targeting smoking among Chinese adolescents. A modified TPB approach has potential for future smoking interventions among Chinese adolescents. Beliefs elicited in this study form a strong basis for designing a location- and population-specific antismoking programme.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.PSYCHRES.2018.10.051
Abstract: Several studies have established that Major depressive disorder is associated with excess inflammation with an elevation of both pro and anti-inflammatory cytokines in major depressive disorder. In addition, in iduals with major depressive disorder are at higher risk of developing coronary artery disease. The role of innate immunity and NFκB-mediated inflammation in depression and its increased association with coronary artery disease is yet to be fully elucidated. Polymorphisms in the Nucleotide-Binding Oligomerization Domain, Leucine Rich Repeat and Pyrin Domain Containing 12 (NLRP12), are associated with depression and coronary artery disease in trauma exposed in iduals. In a cohort of Vietnam War veterans (n = 299) NLRP12 polymorphisms were analysed for association with depression and coronary calcium scores. The NLRP12 polymorphism, rs34436714 was associated with a higher DASS21 Score for depression (p = 0.037). NLRP12 polymorphisms rs34971363 and rs6509825 (p = 0.022 and p = 0.020) were associated with raised coronary calcium score. To our knowledge, this is the first time rs34436714 has been investigated in Vietnam veterans identifying AC as a risk genotype for depression in Caucasian cohorts. It is also the first time the rs34971363 (CG) and rs6509825 (CT) genotype have been associated with raised coronary calcium score.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 08-04-2015
DOI: 10.1111/AJR.12177
Abstract: To investigate if parental disapproval of alcohol use accounts for differences in adolescent alcohol use across regional and urban communities. Secondary data analysis of grade-level stratified data from a random s le of schools. High schools in Victoria, Australia. A random s le of 10 273 adolescents from Grade 7 (mean age = 12.51 years), 9 (14.46 years) and 11 (16.42 years). The key independent variables were parental disapproval of adolescent alcohol use and regionality (regional/ urban), and the dependent variable was past 30 days alcohol use. After adjusting for potential confounders, adolescents in regional areas were more likely to use alcohol in the past 30 days (OR = 1.83, 1.44 and 1.37 for Grades 7, 9 and 11, respectively, P < 0.05), and their parents have a lower level of disapproval of their alcohol use (b = -0.12, -0.15 and -0.19 for Grades 7, 9 and 11, respectively, P < 0.001). Bootstrapping analyses suggested that 8.37%, 23.30% and 39.22% of the effect of regionality on adolescent alcohol use was mediated by parental disapproval of alcohol use for Grades 7, 9 and 11 participants respectively (P < 0.05). Adolescents in urban areas had a lower risk of alcohol use compared with their regional counterparts, and differences in parental disapproval of alcohol use contributed to this difference.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2005
DOI: 10.1016/J.VASCN.2005.03.007
Abstract: The ICH guideline S7A recommends that the effects of drugs on the respiratory system are evaluated in laboratory mammals prior to administration in man. Previously, animals have been placed in plethysmography chambers for short durations. This study investigates the possibility of restraining animals in chambers for a longer duration to assess respiratory function over extended periods. Respiratory function in conscious rats was assessed using plethysmography chambers where the rat body was enclosed in a sealed chamber while the head was free. Thoracic movements were measured by pressure transducers linked to a Buxco lifier system and respiratory parameters were captured and analyzed by the Notocord HEM data acquisition system. Each animal was subjected to 5 acclimatization sessions of escalating duration (1, 2, 4, 5, and 6 hours (h)) over 5 days prior to testing, with a baseline recording session conducted the day prior to dosing. Animals (8 males/group) were dosed subcutaneously with saline or bethanecol (3, 10, or 30 mg/kg) and placed in the chambers for 6 h of continuous recording. Additionally, a recording session was conducted at 24 h post-dose. Subcutaneous administration of 30 mg/kg bethanecol decreased respiration rate by up to 33% during the first 1.5 h post-dose and increased tidal volume by up to 46% from 0.25 to 1.25 h post-dose when compared to vehicle group data. A decrease in minute volume of up to 33% was observed 0.25 h following administration of the 10 and 30 mg/kg doses. These data show a respiratory depression caused by the cholinergic agonist bethanecol, an effect partially compensated for by an increase in tidal volume. This also demonstrates the ability to continuously restrain and record respiratory parameters in conscious rats for up to 6 h without any negative impact on the quality of the data.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 07-03-2014
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 08-10-2019
DOI: 10.1038/S41467-019-12576-W
Abstract: The risk of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following trauma is heritable, but robust common variants have yet to be identified. In a multi-ethnic cohort including over 30,000 PTSD cases and 170,000 controls we conduct a genome-wide association study of PTSD. We demonstrate SNP-based heritability estimates of 5–20%, varying by sex. Three genome-wide significant loci are identified, 2 in European and 1 in African-ancestry analyses. Analyses stratified by sex implicate 3 additional loci in men. Along with other novel genes and non-coding RNAs, a Parkinson’s disease gene involved in dopamine regulation, PARK2 , is associated with PTSD. Finally, we demonstrate that polygenic risk for PTSD is significantly predictive of re-experiencing symptoms in the Million Veteran Program dataset, although specific loci did not replicate. These results demonstrate the role of genetic variation in the biology of risk for PTSD and highlight the necessity of conducting sex-stratified analyses and expanding GWAS beyond European ancestry populations.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 02-2000
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 20-08-2019
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 06-04-2016
Abstract: Type 2 diabetes is commonly found in schizophrenia and is an important contributor to mortality and morbidity in this condition. Dopamine has been implicated in the aetiology of both diabetes and schizophrenia. It is possible that both disorders share a common genetic susceptibility. In a cross-sectional study, we examined 2 dopamine D2 receptor (DRD2) single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) previously associated with schizophrenia (C939 T, rs6275 and C957 T, rs6277) along with fasting blood glucose and body mass index (BMI) in 207 antipsychotic-treated patients with schizophrenia. All participants met DSM-IV criteria for schizophrenia, and those with other psychiatric disorders were excluded. Analysis of covariance was used to compare fasting glucose results by DRD2 genotypes, after controlling for known confounds. For significant associations, follow-up Bonferroni post hoc tests examined differences in fasting glucose levels between genotypes. Specific comparisons were also made using analysis of variance and chi-square (Fisher’s exact test). The 2 DRD2 risk genotypes were associated with significant increases in blood glucose, after controlling for BMI, age, sex, dosage and type of antipsychotic medication, number of hospitalisations, and negative symptoms (rs6275, F(2, 182) = 5.901, P = 0.003 rs6277 SNP, F(2, 178) = 3.483, P = 0.033). These findings support the involvement of DRD2 not only in schizophrenia but also in elevated levels of blood glucose commonly found in antipsychotic-treated patients with schizophrenia. Our data support the notion that diabetes may not merely be a comorbid condition but could be fundamentally associated with the pathogenesis of schizophrenia itself.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.GENE.2019.02.067
Abstract: Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) gene is associated with increased risk of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and plays a role in neuroplasticity, cognition and memory. BDNF has strong potential as a therapeutic target as studies have shown that antidepressants, electroconvulsive treatment and exercise modulate BDNF expression and methylation. In this study we examined the role of BDNF methylation and expression in PTSD and the implications of exercise in mediating these effects. BDNF DNA methylation and gene expression analysis was performed in a s le of 96 male Vietnam veterans. Cases were combat-exposed veterans with current PTSD (n = 48) and controls were combat exposed veterans with no past or current PTSD diagnosis (n = 48). No association between BDNF mRNA and PTSD was identified. PTSD was associated with decreased methylation at three BDNF CpG sites (cg01546433 P = 0.004835 cg24650785 P = 0.000259 and cg002298481 P = 0.000672). Differential BDNF methylation was associated with exercise, with active exercise associated with lower methylation levels at three CpG sites (cg04481212 P = 0.005 cg01546433 P = 0.025 and cg00298481 P = 0.035). Given that exercise mediates BDNF action on cognitive plasticity, exercise may be a non-invasive, drug free option in the treatment of PTSD.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 04-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.EURPSY.2010.09.010
Abstract: The primary purpose of this meta-analysis was to explore, clarify and report the strength of the relationship between alexithymia, as measured by the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20), and parenting style as measured by the Parental Bonding Instrument (PBI). Web of Science, PsycInfo, PubMed and ProQuest: Dissertations and Theses searches were undertaken, yielding nine s les with sufficient data to be included in the meta-analysis. Evidence indicated moderate to strong relationships between maternal care and alexithymia, and between maternal care and two of the three TAS-20 alexithymia facets (Difficulties Describing Feelings and Difficulties Identifying Feelings, but not Externally Oriented Thinking). Moderate relationships were observed for both maternal- and paternal-overprotection and alexithymia respectively, and for overprotection (both maternal and paternal) and Difficulties Describing Feelings. This study is the first meta-analysis of the relationship between parenting styles and alexithymia, and findings confirm an especially strong association between maternal care and key elements of alexithymia. This review highlights the issues that still remain to be addressed in exploring the link between parenting style and alexithymia.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 10-2000
Publisher: Royal College of Psychiatrists
Date: 17-01-2021
DOI: 10.1192/BJP.2019.263
Abstract: Meth hetamine has been consistently associated with positive psychotic symptoms, but little is known about whether the reverse also occurs. This study determined whether the relationship between meth hetamine use and positive psychotic symptoms is bidirectional over 12 months. The impact of lifetime psychotic disorders and meth hetamine dependence on these relationships was also examined. A total of 201 regular (at least monthly) primary meth hetamine users were recruited from free needle and syringe programmes in three Australian cities. Data on the frequency of meth hetamine and other drug use (from Timeline Followback inteviews) and the severity of positive psychotic symptoms (using the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale) in the past 2 weeks were collected in 12 contiguous monthly face-to-face interviews (mean of 9.14/11 (s.d. = 3.16) follow-ups completed). Diagnoses were derived using the Psychiatric Research Interview for DSM-IV Substance and Mental Disorders. The mean age of participants was 31.71 years (s.d. = 8.19) and 39% ( n = 77) were women. At baseline 55% ( n = 110) were dependent on meth hetamine and 51% ( n = 102) had a lifetime psychotic disorder. Cross-lagged dynamic panel models found a significant bidirectional relationship between psychotic symptoms and meth hetamine use (Comparative Fit Index (CFI) = 0.94, standardised root mean square residual (SRMR) = 0.05, root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) = 0.05, 95% CI 0.04–0.06). The magnitude of the relationship in each direction was similar, and the presence of meth hetamine dependence or a lifetime psychotic disorder did not have an impact on results. A dynamic, bidirectional relationship between meth hetamine and psychotic symptoms of similar magnitude in each direction was found over 1 year. This suggests integrated treatments that target meth hetamine, psychotic symptoms and their interrelationship may be of most benefit.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 10-2001
DOI: 10.1046/J.1360-0443.2001.9610149713.X
Abstract: To evaluate the effectiveness of three approaches to assisting the female partners of male problem drinkers with the stress imposed by the male's drinking. Participants were assigned randomly via random number tables to one of three treatment conditions: supportive counselling, stress management or alcohol-focused couples therapy. The intervention took place at the Behaviour Research and Therapy Centre (BRTC), The University of Queensland. This research and training centre offers outpatient psychology services to the community. Sixty-one married women whose husbands drank heavily. Participants reported protracted alcohol problems, severe impact of alcohol on social functioning and severe marital distress. The women's stress, alcohol consumption by the male, and relationship functioning were assessed at pre- and post-treatment and at 6-month follow-up. All three treatments involved 15 1-hour sessions with the woman. In the alcohol-focused couple therapy, attempts were made to engage the man in these sessions. Contrary to our predictions, there were few differences between the treatments. All three treatments were associated with reductions in the women's reported stress, with trends for somewhat greater reduction in the women's stress in the stress management and alcohol-focused couples therapy conditions than for supportive counselling. None of the treatments produced clinically significant reductions in men's drinking or relationship distress. The treatments ease stresses and burden but do not improve drinking or relationships. Limited power in the design restricted the capacity to detect differential treatment effects.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2008
DOI: 10.1016/J.PSYCHRES.2007.06.030
Abstract: Psychological risk and genetic risk for alcohol dependence are rarely examined in concert. The current study used path analysis (via structural equation modelling) to explore the relationship between the A(1) allele of the D2 dopamine receptor DRD2 gene region, age of problem drinking onset, alcohol expectancy and drinking refusal self-efficacy towards alcohol consumption and dependence severity. One hundred and forty-three (93 male, 50 female) alcohol dependent inpatients provided an extensive clinical history, including age of onset of problem drinking and quantity and frequency of alcohol consumption. The Drinking Expectancy Profile and the Alcohol Dependence Scale were completed, and 10 milliliters of blood were obtained for genetic analysis. The results showed that the posited model fitted the data set well and support the pattern of direct (allele status to drinking) and indirect (allele status influenced by psychosocial variables) relationships hypothesised for the model. A formal test of mediation showed some support for a psychosocial mediational model. The results are discussed in terms of a possible developmental trajectory that involves both genetic risk that influences brain dopamine activity and reinforcement expectancies that both operate via diminished drinking refusal self-efficacy. The prevention and treatment possibilities that arise from understanding this trajectory are examined.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 06-2004
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 09-10-2021
DOI: 10.1080/15332640.2019.1670768
Abstract: Alcohol is a commonly used substance among Vietnamese medical students, especially males. Vietnamese male medical students drink more alcohol, report more intentions to binge drink, and experience more alcohol-related problems than females. As medical students' alcohol consumption may influence their attitudes and medical practice relating to alcohol counseling and prevention, research about the cultural and drinking norms underlying the drinking behavior of Vietnamese male medical students is warranted. This study aims to explore the norms underlying drinking behavior of Vietnamese male medical students. A qualitative study including 32 in-depth interviews with Vietnamese male medical students at a medical university. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. This study found Vietnamese male medical students considered alcohol consumption as a way to show their masculinity and become accepted by groups. Given these beliefs and adherence to norms, they followed rules to force others to consume more alcohol or be intoxicated in drinking occasions among medical students. This study showed the importance of gender and group norms in influencing Vietnamese male medical students' alcohol consumption. These norms should be considered in future research and interventions addressing alcohol use among this target population.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 24-01-2023
DOI: 10.1017/S1049023X23000092
Abstract: Following the 2010-2011 floods and cyclones that affected 78% of Queensland, Australia, a State-wide mental health response was established. The response plan included a 24-hour access line. This study examines the effectiveness of the mental health screening program conducted via the State-wide health call center (13HEALTH) in 2012. Callers to the 13HEALTH line were screened to assess the impact of the disaster. The 13HEALTH clinicians administered the Primary Care-Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Scale (PC-PTSD) screening measure. Those scoring more than two on the PC-PTSD Scale were provided information on the emotional impact of disasters and a referral to the post-disaster specialist mental health program (SMHP). For calls related to those under 18, a single-item question assessed behavioral or emotional changes since the natural disasters. Those with identified changes were offered a referral to a post-disaster SMHP. The study evaluates the relationship between disaster exposure and the likelihood of 13HEALTH callers experiencing physical health concerns and unacknowledged mental health symptoms. The program’s cost for the 12 months of 2012 was assessed using data from the financial contract. In 2012, there were 205,064 calls to 13HEALTH: 19,708 identified as residing in a flood or cyclone-affected area, 7,315 adults indicated they were personally affected, and 907 scored more than two on the PC-PTSD Scale. Only 700 agreed to a referral to the SMHP. There were 290 children under 18 assessed as at risk 207 accepted a referral to a SMHP. Regions that experienced a greater impact from the floods and cyclones were 1.3-2.3 times more likely to report being personally affected by the floods and cyclones. Similarly, these regions had more callers scoring more than two on the PC-PTSD Scale. The total cost of the 13HEALTH program for 2012 was $53,284 (AU) across all age groups. The 13HEALTH general health post-disaster screening program demonstrates opportunistic screening may assist identification of those with unmet mental health needs. The data indicate an increased likelihood of personal exposure in the more affected regions with an increased risk of unrecognized psychological symptoms as assessed by the PC-PTSD Scale. However, more than 20% declined referral to a SMHP.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 10-07-2006
DOI: 10.1111/J.1360-0443.2006.01488.X
Abstract: To test whether addition of moderation-orientated cue exposure (CE) or CE after dysphoric mood induction (emotional CE, ECE) improved outcomes above those from cognitive-behaviour therapy alone (CBT) in people who drank when dysphoric. Multi-site randomized controlled trial comparing CBT with CBT + CE and CBT + ECE. Out-patient rooms in academic treatment units in Brisbane and Sydney, Australia. People with alcohol misuse and problems controlling consumption when dysphoric (n = 163). Those with current major depressive episode were excluded. Eight weekly 75-minute sessions of in idual treatment for alcohol problems were given to all participants, with CBT elements held constant across conditions. From session 2, CBT + CE participants resisted drinking while exposed to alcohol cues, with two priming doses of their preferred beverage being given in some sessions. After an initial CE session, CBT + ECE participants recalled negative experiences before undertaking CE, to provide exposure to emotional cues of personal relevance. Alcohol consumption, related problems, alcohol expectancies, self-efficacy and depression. Average improvements were highly significant across conditions, with acceptable maintenance of effects over 12 months. Both treatment retention and effects on alcohol consumption were progressively weaker in CBT + CE and CBT + ECE than in CBT alone. Changes in alcohol dependence and depression did not differ across conditions. These data do not indicate that addition of clinic-based CE to standard CBT improves outcomes. A different approach to the management of craving may be required.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2004
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.BBI.2018.08.014
Abstract: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a serious condition that emerges following trauma exposure and involves long-lasting psychological suffering and health-issues. Uncovering critical genes and molecular networks is essential to understanding the biology of the disorder. We performed a genome-wide scan to identify transcriptome signatures of PTSD. Genome-wide peripheral blood transcriptomic data from 380 service personnel were investigated. This included a discovery s le of 96 Australian Vietnam War veterans and two independent pre and post-deployment replication s les of U.S. Marines (N = 188 and N = 96). A total of 60 transcripts were differentially expressed between veterans with and without PTSD, surviving Bonferroni multiple testing correction. Genes within the cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, Jak-STAT signaling and Toll-like receptor signaling pathways were enriched. For 49% of the genes, gene expression changes were also accompanied by DNA methylation changes. Using replication data from two U.S. Marine cohorts, we observed that of the differentially expressed genes, 71% genes also showed significant gene expression changes between pre and post-deployment. Weighted gene co-expression networks revealed two modules of genes associated with PTSD. The first module (67 genes, p-value = 6e-4) was enriched for genes within the 11p13 locus including BDNF. The second module (266 genes, p-value = 0.01) was enriched for genes in 17q11 including SLC6A4, STAT5A and STAT5B. We identified novel transcriptomic loci and biological pathways for PTSD in service personnel. Network analysis revealed enrichment of loci harboring key candidate genes in PTSD. These findings highlight the role of transcriptional biomarkers in the molecular etiology of PTSD.
Publisher: American Psychological Association (APA)
Date: 02-2016
DOI: 10.1037/ADB0000135
Abstract: Alexithymia is characterized by difficulty identifying feelings, difficulty describing feelings, and an externally oriented thinking style. Alexithymia has been described as a trait-like risk factor for the development of alcohol use disorders. Few studies have investigated the absolute (whether mean scores change over time) and relative (extent to which relative differences among in iduals remain the same over time) stability of alexithymia among men and women with alcohol dependence, or have considered potential underlying mechanisms. Social learning processes contribute to and maintain alcohol problems. The reinforcement of alcohol expectancies is one plausible mechanism that links the difficulties in emotional processing associated with alexithymia and alcohol use. The present study investigated the stability of alexithymia as well as alcohol expectancy as a mediator of alexithymia. Three hundred fifty-five alcohol-dependent patients were enrolled in a cognitive behavioral treatment program. Ninety-two alcohol-dependent patients completed assessments at baseline and at 3-month follow-up. Results indicated that total Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20 Bagby, Parker, & Taylor, 1994) mean score, difficulty identifying feelings, and difficulty describing feelings decreased significantly over time with a larger decrease in alexithymia mean scores for females. Externally oriented thinking mean scores did not change. The TAS-20 and its subfactors demonstrated significant correlations, from baseline to follow-up, which were stronger for males than for females. Regression analyses showed that the total TAS-20 mean scores, difficulty identifying feelings, and difficulty describing feelings were partially mediated through assertion alcohol expectancies. In conclusion, this suggests that alexithymia has relative stability and is a trait-like factor among alcohol-dependent treatment seekers.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-08-2021
DOI: 10.1111/ADD.15146
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 08-09-2022
DOI: 10.1017/S1049023X22001194
Abstract: Following natural disasters, rural general practitioners (GPs) are expected to undertake several roles, including identifying those experiencing psychological distress and providing evidence-informed mental health care. This paper reports on a collaborative mental health program developed to support a rural GP practice (population ,500) and a disaster response service. The program provided specialized disaster mental health care via the placement of a clinician in the GP facility. In collaboration with the GP practice, the program offered opportunistic screening using the Primary Care Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Scale (PC-PTSD) for probable PTSD as the primary measure and the Kessler 6 (K6) as a secondary measure. Those scoring higher than two on the PC-PTSD scale were referred to the mental health clinician (MHC) for further assessment and treatment. Sixty screening assessments were completed. Fourteen patients (male = 3 female = 11) scored higher than two on the PC-PTSD. The referred group PC-PTSD mean score was 3.14 and K6 mean score of 19. Those not referred had a PC-PTSD mean score = 0.72 and K6 mean score = 7.30. The treatment and non-treatment groups differed significantly (PC-PTSD: P .00001 and K6: P .00001). A prior history of trauma exposure was notable in the intervention group. Eight reported a history of domestic violence, seven histories of sexual abuse, five childhood sexual abuse, and eight intimate partner violence (IPV). A post-disaster integrated GP and mental health program in a rural community can assist in identifying in iduals experiencing post-disaster psychological distress using opportunistic psychological screening. The findings indicate that collaborative mental health programs may effectively support rural communities post-disaster.
Publisher: American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM)
Date: 15-09-2018
DOI: 10.5664/JCSM.7340
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.PSYCHRES.2014.11.077
Abstract: This study investigates the rates of primary psychotic disorders (PPD) and substance-induced psychotic disorders (SIPDs) in meth hetamine (MA) users accessing needle and syringe programs (NSPs). The aim was to determine if there are systematic differences in the characteristics of MA users with PPDs and SIPDs compared to those with no psychotic disorder. Participants were 198 MA users reporting use in the previous month. Diagnosis was determined using the Psychiatric Research Interview for DSM-IV Substance and Mental Disorders (PRISM-IV). Current psychiatric symptoms and substance use were also measured. Just over half (n=101) of participants met DSM-IV criteria for a lifetime psychotic disorder, including 81 (80%) with a SIPD and 20 (20%) with a PPD. Those with a younger age of onset of weekly MA use were at increased risk of a lifetime SIPD. A current psychotic disorder was found in 62 (39%), comprising 49 SIPDs (79%) and 13 PPDs (21%). MA users with a current PPD were more likely to have received psychiatric treatment in the past month than those with a current SIPD, despite a similar level of psychotic symptom severity. A high proportion of MA users accessing NSPs have psychotic disorders, the majority of which are substance-induced.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2009
DOI: 10.1016/J.ADDBEH.2008.10.016
Abstract: All human beings experience emotion. However a number of in iduals have difficulties recognising, processing and regulating their emotions. This set of emotional "deficits' is classified as alexithymia. The prevalence rate of alexithymia in alcohol use disorders is between 45 and 67%. The objective of this paper is to review the published research on alexithymia and alcohol use, assess the methodological quality of this evidence, and draw the findings together to present a critical update on the relationship between alexithymia and alcohol use disorders. Yet, few research studies have comprehensively investigated alexithymia in alcohol use disorders, and a number of key issues still remain to be addressed in exploring the veracity of the link between alexithymia and alcohol use. For ex le, limited evidence exists regarding the association between alexithymia, alcohol consumption and severity of alcohol dependence. Furthermore, there is no current knowledge about the predictive utility of alexithymia in relation to more well researched and established psychological drinking constructs. Although alexithymia is often considered a risk factor for the development of alcohol use disorders, there is little evidence to support this notion. Given that alexithymia may have the potential to interfere with treatment outcomes, a better understanding of the role of alexithymia in alcohol use is needed.
Publisher: Royal College of Psychiatrists
Date: 10-2005
Abstract: Increasing attention has been given by researchers to cannabis use in in iduals with psychosis. As psychoses are relatively low-prevalence disorders, research has been mostly been restricted to small-scale studies of treatment s les. The reported prevalence estimates obtained from these studies vary widely. To provide prevalence estimates based on larger s les and to examine sources of variability in prevalence estimates across studies. Data from 53 studies of treatment s les and 5 epidemiological studies were analysed. Based on treatment s le data, prevalence estimates were calculated for current use (23.0%), current misuse (11.3%), 12-month use (29.2%), 12-month misuse (18.8%), lifetime use (42.1%) and lifetime misuse (22.5%). Epidemiological studies consistently reported higher cannabis use and misuse prevalence in people with psychosis. The factor most consistently associated with increased odds of cannabis prevalence was specificity of diagnosis. Factors such as consumption patterns and study design merit further consideration.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 10-2000
DOI: 10.1046/J.1360-0443.2000.951015378.X
Abstract: To evaluate the efficacy of a short-term alcohol-focused intervention for maritally distressed women, and to explore changes in relationship functioning. Participants were assigned randomly to an alcohol-focused treatment or to a waiting-list control group. The waiting-list control group began the intervention at 1-month follow-up. The intervention took place at a research and training centre offering outpatient psychology services to the community. A s le of 32 women with alcohol and marital problems were recruited through the media. Participants reported protracted alcohol problems, moderate to severe impact of alcohol on social and occupational functioning, and moderate to severe marital distress. Measures of average alcohol consumption, marital distress, relational efficacy and depression were administered at pre- and post-therapy, and at 1, 6 and 12-month follow-up. The intervention involved six 1-hour sessions, consisting of clinical assessment, motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioural strategies and relapse prevention. At 1-month follow-up, the intervention was associated with statistically significant improvements in alcohol consumption, marital satisfaction, relational efficacy and depression, and these effects were sustained at 12-month follow-up. At 1-month follow-up the intervention was associated with decreased alcohol consumption and depression, and increased marital satisfaction and relational efficacy, with evidence of maintained effects at 12-month follow-up. However, it is unlikely that reduced problem drinking and improved confidence in resolving problems were the only factors producing low marital quality in these couples. Further research is needed to identify those in iduals who might benefit from marital interventions.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2006
DOI: 10.1016/J.ADDBEH.2005.12.026
Abstract: This trial of cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) based hetamine abstinence program (n=507) focused on refusal self-efficacy, improved coping, improved problem solving and planning for relapse prevention. Measures included the Severity of Dependence Scale (SDS), the General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28) and Amphetamine Refusal Self-Efficacy. Psychiatric case identification (caseness) across the four GHQ-28 sub-scales was compared with Australian normative data. Almost 90% were hetamine-dependent (SDS 8.15+/-3.17). Pre-treatment, all GHQ-28 sub-scale measures were below reported Australian population values. Caseness was substantially higher than Australian normative values {Somatic Symptoms (52.3%), Anxiety (68%), Social Dysfunction (46.5%) and Depression (33.7%)}. One hundred and sixty-eight subjects (33%) completed and reported program abstinence. Program completers reported improvement across all GHQ-28 sub-scales {Somatic Symptoms (p<0.001), Anxiety (p<0.001), Social Dysfunction (p<0.001) and Depression (p<0.001)}. They also reported improvement in hetamine refusal self-efficacy (p<0.001). Improvement remained significant following intention-to-treat analyses, imputing baseline data for subjects that withdrew from the program. The GHQ-28 sub-scales, Amphetamine Refusal Self-Efficacy Questionnaire and the SDS successfully predicted treatment compliance through a discriminant analysis function (p<.001).
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2002
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-2004
DOI: 10.1080/09595230412331324563
Abstract: Psychoses are relatively low prevalence disorders that have a disproportionately negative impact on in iduals and society. Cannabis use is one factor that can exacerbate the negative consequences associated with psychotic disorders. Relatively few studies have examined the effects or reasons for using cannabis self-reported by in iduals with psychosis. The present study is the first known to compare directly such factors in in iduals with and without psychosis, within a single study. At baseline and follow-up participants with psychosis most commonly reported using cannabis for positive mood alteration (36% and 42%), coping with negative affect (27% and 29%) and for social activity reasons (38% and 29%). The control group most commonly reported using cannabis for relaxation (34% and 43%) and social activity reasons (49% and 51%). Participants with psychosis were less likely to report relaxation as the most important effect after use (27%) or expect it at follow-up (49%) compared to the control group (53% and 70%). In both groups, addiction and positive affect enhancement were the composite variable scores correlated most consistently with concurrent amount and frequency of use.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2022
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 10-10-2014
DOI: 10.1111/DAR.12218
Abstract: The rate of alcohol-related emergency department (ED) presentations in young people has increased dramatically in recent decades. Injuries are the most common type of youth alcohol-related ED presentation, yet little is known about these injuries in young people. This paper describes the characteristics of alcohol-related ED injury presentations in young people over a 13-year period and determines if they differ by gender and/or age group (adolescents: 12-17 years young adults: 18-24 years). The Queensland Injury Surveillance Unit (QISU) database collects injury surveillance data at triage in participating EDs throughout Queensland, Australia. A total of 4667 cases of alcohol-related injuries in young people (aged 12-24 years) were identified in the QISU database between January 1999 and December 2011, using an injury surveillance code and nursing triage text-based search strategy. Overall, young people accounted for 38% of all QISU alcohol-related ED injury presentations in patients aged 12 years or over. The majority of young adults presented with injuries due to violence and falls, whereas adolescents presented due to self-harm or intoxication without other injury. Males presented with injuries due to violence, whereas females presented with alcohol-related self-harm and intoxication. There is a need for more effective ways of identifying the degree of alcohol involvement in injuries among young people presenting to EDs.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 16-01-2009
DOI: 10.1007/S10519-008-9255-7
Abstract: The dopamine D2 receptor (DRD2) C957T polymorphism CC genotype is associated with decreased striatal binding of DRD2 and executive function and working memory impairments in healthy adults. We investigated the relationships between C957T and acute stress with behavioral phenotypes of impulsivity in 72 young adults randomly allocated to either an acute psychosocial stress or relaxation induction condition. Homozygotes for 957C showed increased reward responsiveness after stress induction. They were also quicker when making immediate choices on the delay discounting task when stressed, compared with homozygotes who were not stressed. No effects were found for response inhibition, a dimension of impulsivity not related to extrinsic rewards. These data suggest that C957T is associated with a reward-related impulsivity endophenotype in response to acute psychosocial stress. Future studies should examine whether the greater sensitivity of 957C homozygotes to the effects of stress is mediated through dopamine release.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 16-12-2009
DOI: 10.1080/87565640903325725
Abstract: Children with early and continuously treated phenylketonuria (ECT-PKU) remain at risk of developing executive function (EF) deficits. There is some evidence that a high phenylalanine to tyrosine ratio (phe:tyr) is more strongly associated with impaired EF development than high phenylalanine alone. This study examined EF in a s le of 11 adolescents against concurrent and historical levels of phenylalanine, phe:tyr, and tyrosine. Lifetime measures of phe:tyr were more strongly associated with EF than phenylalanine-only measures. Children with a lifetime phe:tyr less than 6 demonstrated normal EF, whereas children who had a lifetime phe:tyr above 6, on average, demonstrated clinically impaired EF.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 04-2018
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2018
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-1998
DOI: 10.1016/S0306-4603(98)00025-2
Abstract: Research in the field of teenage drinking behavior has shown relationships between both social skills and drinking and alcohol expectancies and drinking. The present research investigated the comparative power of both of these sets of variables in predicting teenage drinking behavior, as well as looking at the contribution of more global cognitive structures. It was hypothesised that adolescents with high alcohol involvement would be discriminated from those with low involvement on the basis of social skills, cognitive structures, and alcohol expectancies. Seven hundred thirty-two adolescents participated in the study. Results indicated that adolescent alcohol involvement was associated with social skills deficits, positive alcohol expectancies, and negative cognitive structures concerning parents and teachers. The results revealed that, although the bulk of the variance in drinking behavior was explained by the independent effects of social skills and expectancies, the interaction of the two constructs explained an additional and significant proportion of the variance. Implications for preventive and treatment programs are discussed.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.ADDBEH.2015.01.021
Abstract: Emotional and role functioning difficulties are associated with chronic alcohol use and liver disease. Little is known about prospective changes in psychological and psychosocial functioning following orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) amongst patients with alcoholic liver disease (ALD). We aimed to assess the functioning of this patient group post liver transplantation. Comprehensive psychosocial assessment of depression (Beck Depression Inventory [BDI]), anxiety (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory-Form X [STAI]) and psychosocial adjustment (Psychosocial Adjustment to Illness Scale-Self-Report version [PAIS-SR]) was conducted with 42 ALD patients available for pre and post OLT testing. Dependence severity was assessed by the Brief Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test (bMAST). Significant reductions in average anxiety and depression symptoms were observed 12-months post-OLT. Significant improvements in psychosocial adjustment to illness were also reported. Patients with higher levels of alcohol dependence severity pre transplant assessment improved comparably to those with lower levels of dependence. In summary, the study found that OLT contributed to reducing overall levels of mood and anxiety symptoms in ALD patients, approximating general (non-clinical) population norms. Psychosocial adjustment also improved significantly post liver transplantation.
Publisher: American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM)
Date: 15-05-2018
DOI: 10.5664/JCSM.7096
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 10-06-2013
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 30-09-2022
DOI: 10.1111/ACER.14938
Abstract: For most treatment‐seeking patients with severe Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), abstinence is the clinically indicated goal. Existing AUD motivation scales are non‐specific about treatment consumption goals, which limit their effectiveness. Desires and mental imagery are relevant in the motivation for AUD treatment engagement. The Motivational Thought Frequency Scale for an abstinence goal (MTF‐A) was adapted from the MTF for controlled drinking (MTF‐CD). This study psychometrically evaluated the MTF‐A in an alcohol‐dependent s le engaged in treatment with a goal of abstinence. To enhance the clinical utility of the scale, a secondary aim was to evaluate a psychometrically equivalent short version of the MTF‐A. A s le N of 329 treatment‐seeking patients with AUD (mean age of 44.44 years, SD = 11.89 years, 72% male) who were undertaking a cognitive behavioral treatment (CBT) program for abstinence completed the Motivational Thought Frequency Scale for Abstinence (MTF‐A) and the Severity of Alcohol Dependence Questionnaire (SADQ). The MTF‐A measured motivation for abstinence through four factors: intensity, self‐efficacy imagery, incentives imagery, and availability. Confirmatory factor analyses (CFAs) were conducted to examine factor structure and model fit. Cronbach's alpha assessed internal consistency. Predictive validity was determined by logistic regression predicting first‐session treatment non‐attendance and alcohol consumption between baseline assessment and commencement of treatment, controlling for potential confounds. A four‐factor structure provided the best fit for the MTF‐A, compared with one‐ and three‐factor models. A shortened 9‐item MTF‐A scale (S‐MTF‐A) provided better fit than the 13‐item MTF‐A scale. Both MTF‐A and S‐MTF‐A displayed good internal consistency. Although both MTF‐A and S‐MTF‐A successfully predicted first‐session treatment non‐attendance, neither predicted alcohol consumption between the baseline assessment and commencement of treatment. The model fit of the four‐factor, 9‐item S‐MTF‐A was superior to the original 13‐item MTF‐A. Both scales were predictive of participation of AUD treatment. Desires and mental imagery play an important role in AUD treatment motivation.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 08-06-2008
DOI: 10.1016/J.ADOLESCENCE.2007.04.004
Abstract: In Australia, youth are the most prolific users of mobile phones, however, there is little research investigating this phenomenon. This paper reports a qualitative exploration of psychological factors relating to mobile phone use amongst Australian youth. 32 participants, aged between 16 and 24 years, took part in focus group discussions. Thematic data analysis focussed on identifying the psychological benefits arising from mobile phone use and whether mobile phone addiction was occurring amongst this group. Mobile phone use was believed to provide numerous benefits to users and is an intrinsic part of most young people's lives. It emerged that some young people are extremely attached to their mobile phone with symptoms of behavioural addiction revealed in participants’ descriptions of their mobile phone use. The study provides a solid foundation for further work investigating addictive patterns of mobile phone use amongst youth.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.JAD.2015.08.069
Abstract: The nitric oxide synthase 1 adaptor protein gene (NOS1AP) has previously been recognised as a schizophrenia susceptibility gene due to its role in glutamate neurotransmission. The gene is believed to inhibit nitric oxide (NO) production activated by the N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor and reduced NO levels have been observed in schizophrenia patients. However, association studies investigating NOS1AP and schizophrenia have produced inconsistent results, most likely because schizophrenia is a clinically heterogeneous disorder. This study aims to investigate the association between NOS1AP variants and defined depression phenotypes of schizophrenia. Nine NOS1AP SNPs, rs1415259, rs1415263, rs1858232, rs386231, rs4531275, rs4656355, rs4657178, rs6683968 and rs6704393 were genotyped in 235 schizophrenia subjects screened for various phenotypes of depression. One NOS1AP SNP (rs1858232) was associated with the broad diagnosis of schizophrenia and eight SNPs were associated with depression related phenotypes within schizophrenia. The rs1415259 SNP showed strong association with sleep dysregulation phenotypes of depression. Results suggest that NOS1AP variants are associated with various forms of depression in schizophrenia and are more prevalent in males. Schizophrenia is a clinically heterogeneous disease that can vary greatly between different ethnic and geographic populations so our observations should be viewed with caution until they are independently replicated, particularly in larger patient cohorts.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.PSYCHRES.2016.01.016
Abstract: Alexithymia and alcohol outcome expectancies were investigated in 355 alcohol-dependent treatment seekers. Patients with alexithymia gave stronger self-report ratings of expectancies of affective change related to beliefs that alcohol leads to negative mood states and assertion, that alcohol enhances social skills, compared to those without alexithymia. The findings suggest that alcohol-dependent outpatients with alexithymia may drink to experience intensified negative emotions and improved social functioning.
Publisher: University of Toronto Press Inc. (UTPress)
Date: 04-2019
Abstract: Lay Summary Military service personnel may be exposed to significant adversity during their military careers, including combat trauma and potential threats to physical integrity and safety that can have an impact on their psychological health. Resilience, the ability to effectively cope with and adapt to significant adversity, is thought to be a key protective factor against the development of psychological disorders after exposure to these events. As such, programs have been developed to help personnel and Veterans develop and strengthen their resilience. It is vital that these programs are assessed with reliable and valid measures of resilience. This study examines the use of the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, a measure of resilience, in an Australian Veteran s le and explores attributes of resilience that contribute to psychological health. Non-academic key words : Military service personnel Australian military personnel combat trauma physical integrity safety psychological health Resilience Coping Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale Les membres du personnel des forces armées peuvent être exposés à une grande adversité pendant leur carrière, y compris des traumatismes liés au combat et des menaces à leur intégrité et sécurité physiques susceptibles de nuire à leur santé psychologique. On pense que la résilience, c’est-à-dire la capacité de faire face à une adversité importante et de s’y adapter, est un facteur protecteur clé contre l’apparition de troubles psychologiques après une exposition à de tels événements. C’est pourquoi des programmes ont été mis au point pour aider le personnel et les vétérans à développer et à renforcer leur résilience. Il est essentiel de les évaluer à l’aide de mesures viables et validées de la résilience. La présente étude porte sur l’utilisation de l’échelle de résilience Connor-Davidson, qui est une mesure de résilience, auprès d’un échantillon de vétérans australiens et explore les caractéristiques de la résilience qui contribuent à la santé psychologique. Mots clés non universitaires : personnel des forces armées personnel militaire australien traumatisme lié au combat intégrité physique santé psychologique résilience adaptation échelle de résilience Connor-Davidson
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 1990
DOI: 10.1111/J.1360-0443.1990.TB00621.X
Abstract: The tension reduction hypothesis has been historically and cross-culturally a predominant explanation of alcohol's effects. However, its validation has been inconsistent. One speculative reason for this inconsistency is a failure to control for preheld alcohol expectancies. Past research may have confounded results due to studying populations mixed regarding their expectations of alcohol's tension reducing effects. Only two studies could be found which have comprehensively attempted to control for tension reduction expectancies, both supporting a modified tension reduction hypothesis which does not offer tension reduction as the only explanation of drinking behaviour. The interaction of pharmacology, expectancy, gender role and situation suggest that tension reduction is of major importance in understanding the drinking of many, but not all, in iduals. This is consistent with recent 'metatheories' of alcohol use which emphasize the complexity and multiplicity of alcohol's effects. Future theoretical and clinical implications of the revised tension reduction hypothesis and expectancies are briefly discussed.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 16-10-2009
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 2013
Publisher: Springer International Publishing
Date: 2015
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.NUT.2011.12.009
Abstract: To determine the effects of an eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)-rich oil and a docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)-rich oil versus an ω-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid-rich safflower oil (control) on literacy and behavior in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in a randomized controlled trial. Supplements rich in EPA, DHA, or safflower oil were randomly allocated for 4 mo to 90 Australian children 7 to 12 y old with ADHD symptoms higher than the 90th percentile on the Conners Rating Scales. The effect of supplementation on cognition, literacy, and parent-rated behavior was assessed by linear mixed modeling. Pearson correlations determined associations between the changes in outcome measurements and the erythrocyte fatty acid content (percentage of total) from baseline to 4 mo. There were no significant differences between the supplement groups in the primary outcomes after 4 mo. However, the erythrocyte fatty acid profiles indicated that an increased proportion of DHA was associated with improved word reading (r = 0.394) and lower parent ratings of oppositional behavior (r = 0.392). These effects were more evident in a subgroup of 17 children with learning difficulties: an increased erythrocyte DHA was associated with improved word reading (r = 0.683), improved spelling (r = 0.556), an improved ability to ide attention (r = 0.676), and lower parent ratings of oppositional behavior (r = 0.777), hyperactivity (r = 0.702), restlessness (r = 0.705), and overall ADHD symptoms (r = 0.665). Increases in erythrocyte ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, specifically DHA, may improve literacy and behavior in children with ADHD. The greatest benefit may be observed in children who have comorbid learning difficulties.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 19-08-2014
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.ADDBEH.2012.08.004
Abstract: Despite considerable research activity and application in treatment, the construct of craving remains poorly understood. We propose that cravings and urges are cognitive-emotional events in time, characterised by frequency, duration, intensity and salience. Commonly used measures of alcohol craving are reviewed, and their strengths and weaknesses identified. Most measures confound craving with behaviours, or with separable cognitive phenomena such as expectancies, intentions, or perceived behavioural control. These confounds have limited our advances in understanding the determinants and consequences of craving. Based on the criteria applied in this review, among the better performing multi-item measures are the Penn Alcohol Craving Scale and Obsessive subscale of the Obsessive-Compulsive Drinking Scale. Optimal assessment strategies are likely to involve daily assessments of peak intensity of cravings, desires or urges and of the frequency and duration of craving episodes. Of particular interest are measures of intensity at times when in iduals are at risk of drinking or of other functional impacts from craving.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 10-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.EURPSY.2009.11.011
Abstract: Dystrobrevin binding protein 1 ( DTNBP1 ), or dysbindin, is thought to be critical in regulating the glutamatergic system. While the dopamine pathway is known to be important in the aetiology of schizophrenia, it seems likely that glutamatergic dysfunction can lead to the development of schizophrenia. DTNBP1 is widely expressed in brain, levels are reduced in brains of schizophrenia patients and a DTNBP1 polymorphism has been associated with reduced brain expression. Despite numerous genetic studies no DTNBP1 polymorphism has been strongly implicated in schizophrenia aetiology. Using a haplotype block-based gene-tagging approach we genotyped 13 SNPs in DTNBP1 to investigate possible associations with DTNBP1 and schizophrenia. Four polymorphisms were found to be significantly associated with schizophrenia. The strongest association was found with an A/C SNP in intron 7 (rs9370822). Homozygotes for the C allele of rs9370822 were more than two and a half times as likely to have schizophrenia compared to controls. The other polymorphisms showed much weaker association and are less likely to be biologically significant. These results suggest that DTNBP1 is a good candidate for schizophrenia risk and rs9370822 is either functionally important or in disequilibrium with a functional SNP, although our observations should be viewed with caution until they are independently replicated.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 21-05-2018
DOI: 10.1111/DAR.12567
Abstract: This study aimed to validate the Drinking Expectancy Questionnaire-Adolescent version (DEQ-A) in a large adolescent s le and to develop and validate a brief measure, the Drinking Expectancy Questionnaire-Shortened Adolescent version (DEQ-SA). Cross-sectional survey of secondary school students (n = 2357, aged 13-16, M = 14.66 years, SD = 0.60). Students completed the DEQ-A in school, and measures of alcohol consumption including the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test-Consumption. The data were randomly split, and Exploratory Factor Analysis was performed using subs le 1, and Confirmatory Factor Analysis and reliability and validity testing were performed using subs le 2. The 24-item DEQ-A was successfully reduced to 12 items (DEQ-SA) without compromising psychometric properties. The DEQ-A and the DEQ-SA both demonstrated adequate-to-good fit to the data and very good internal reliability. The DEQ-A and DEQ-SA explained 20 and 18% of the variance in alcohol consumption. Adolescents who drank endorsed more positive alcohol expectancies, whereas alcohol-naïve adolescents scored higher on negative alcohol expectancies. As the DEQ-SA comprises two subscales of the DEQ-A, the endorsement rates are applicable to both scales. The DEQ-A and the short form of this scale developed in this study (DEQ-SA) show good reliability, internal structure and account for a large proportion of variance in alcohol consumption. Both scales can assist in targeting cognitive change processes within tailored alcohol prevention and treatment approaches, and investigating hypothesised mechanisms of change. The DEQ-SA is recommended for more time-limited environments. [Patton KA, Connor JP, Rundle-Thiele S, Dietrich T, Young RM, Gullo MJ. Validation of the Adolescent Drinking Expectancy Questionnaire and development of a short form.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 04-2006
DOI: 10.1016/J.EURPSY.2005.01.006
Abstract: To identify clusters of patients with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) according to symptom profile and to examine the association of the A1 allele of the D 2 dopamine receptor (DRD2) gene with these clusters. Fifty-seven untreated Caucasian Vietnam veterans with PTSD were administered the General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ) and the Mississippi Scale for combat-related PTSD. DRD2 allelic status was determined by PCR. Subjects with the DRD2 Al allele compared to those without this allele had significantly higher scores on GHQ 2 (anxiety/insomnia), GHQ 3 (social dysfunction) and GHQ 4 (depression). Cluster analysis of the GHQ data identified two primary groups. A high psychopathology cluster (cluster 3), featured by high co-morbid levels of somatic concerns, anxiety/insomnia, social dysfunction and depression, and a low psychopathology cluster (cluster 1), manifested by the reverse pattern. Scores in each of the four GHQ groups were significantly higher in cluster 3 than cluster 1, as was Mississippi Scale PTSD score. DRD2 A1 allele veterans compared to those without this allele were significantly more likely to be found in the high than the low psychopathology cluster group. DRD2 variants are associated with severe co-morbid psychopathology in PTSD subjects.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 1998
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 04-2017
DOI: 10.5694/MJA16.00935
Abstract: To determine whether the prevalence of physical comorbidities in Australian Vietnam War veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is higher than in trauma-exposed veterans without PTSD. Cross-sectional analysis of the health status (based on self-reported and objective clinical assessments) of 298 Australian Vietnam War veterans enrolled by the Gallipoli Medical Research Institute (Brisbane) during February 2014 - July 2015, of whom 108 were confirmed as having had PTSD and 106 served as trauma-exposed control participants.Main outcomes and measures: Diagnostic psychiatric interview and psychological assessments determined PTSD status, trauma exposure, and comorbid psychological symptoms. Demographic data, and medical and sleep history were collected comprehensive clinical examination, electrocardiography, spirometry, liver transient elastography, and selected pathology assessments and diagnostic imaging were performed. Outcomes associated with PTSD were identified regression analysis excluded the effects of potentially confounding demographic and risk factors and comorbid symptoms of depression and anxiety. The mean total number of comorbidities was higher among those with PTSD (17.7 SD, 6.1) than in trauma-exposed controls (14.1 SD, 5.2 P < 0.001). For 24 of 171 assessed clinical outcomes, morbidity was greater in the PTSD group, including for conditions of the gastrointestinal, hepatic, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems, sleep disorders, and laboratory pathology measures. In regression analyses including demographic factors, PTSD remained positively associated with 17 adverse outcomes after adjusting for the severity of depressive symptoms, it remained significantly associated with ten. PTSD in Australian Vietnam veterans is associated with comorbidities in several organ systems, independent of trauma exposure. A comprehensive approach to the health care of veterans with PTSD is needed.
Publisher: American Psychological Association (APA)
Date: 11-2008
DOI: 10.1037/A0013359
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2010
Publisher: American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM)
Date: 15-05-2019
DOI: 10.5664/JCSM.7762
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 1994
DOI: 10.1080/09595239400185711
Abstract: The dimensionality of the Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test (MAST) was examined utilizing an Australian s le (n = 196) of alcoholics. This study was specifically designed to overcome some of the problems with s ling and analytic techniques used in previous studies. Three moderately intercorrelated factors were revealed which covered (a) alcohol-related disabilities (b) help-seeking behaviour and (c) recognition of a drinking problem. These factors were found to be internally consistent as shown by moderate to high alpha coefficients. Results indicate that the additive system of scoring all 24 items may result in an underestimation of the information afforded by the MAST.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 04-11-2001
DOI: 10.1046/J.1445-5994.2001.00110.X
Abstract: Tobacco cessation after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) substantially improves outcome but how effective in idual programmes are needs to be established. To date, few studies have examined this factor. To assess the outcome of two smoking cessation programmes after AMI. One hundred and ninety-eight current smokers admitted to coronary care with an AMI participated in a randomized controlled study comparing two outpatient tobacco interventions, the Stanford Heart Attack Staying Free (SF) programme and a Usual Care (UC) programme. Log-rank analyses revealed that patients in the SF programme were retained longer (P < 0.001) and had higher cotinine validated abstinence rates (P < 0.001) compared with patients in the UC programme. Twelve months after intervention, 39% of the SF programme compared with 2% of the UC programme demonstrated cotinine validated tobacco cessation, representing a significant reduced relapse rate in the SF programme (chi2, P< 0.001). The SF smoking cessation programme initiated in hospital can significantly reduce smoking rates at 12 months after myocardial infarction. Although superior to the UC quit programme, Australian outcomes were lower than the American programme originators' published outcomes.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 09-09-2020
DOI: 10.1111/ADD.12295
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 19-07-1991
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 12-2004
DOI: 10.1375/BECH.21.4.229.66106
Abstract: We assessed the effects of the Controlling Alcohol and Relationship Enhancement (CARE) program, an early intervention combining reduction of hazardous alcohol consumption and enhancement of couple relationships. Thirty-seven hazardous drinking couples were randomly allocated to either the CARE program or to a control condition. CARE couples improved their communication more than controls, but couples in both conditions reduced hazardous drinking to a similar extent. CARE is a potentially useful means of promoting positive relationship communication in hazardous drinking couples.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 22-09-2010
DOI: 10.1111/J.1530-0277.2010.01312.X
Abstract: Alcohol craving is associated with greater alcohol-related problems and less favorable treatment prognosis. The Obsessive Compulsive Drinking Scale (OCDS) is the most widely used alcohol craving instrument. The OCDS has been validated in adults with alcohol use disorders (AUDs), which typically emerge in early adulthood. This study examines the validity of the OCDS in a nonclinical s le of young adults. Three hundred and nine college students (mean age of 21.8 years, SD = 4.6 years) completed the OCDS, Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), and measures of alcohol consumption. Subjects were randomly allocated to 2 s les. Construct validity was examined via exploratory factor analysis (n = 155) and confirmatory factor analysis (n = 154). Concurrent validity was assessed using the AUDIT and measures of alcohol consumption. A second, alcohol-dependent s le (mean age 42 years, SD 12 years) from a previously published study (n = 370) was used to assess discriminant validity. A unique young adult OCDS factor structure was validated, consisting of Interference/Control, Frequency of Obsessions, Alcohol Consumption and Resisting Obsessions/Compulsions. The young adult 4-factor structure was significantly associated with the AUDIT and alcohol consumption. The 4 factor OCDS successfully classified nonclinical subjects in 96.9% of cases and the older alcohol-dependent patients in 83.7% of cases. Although the OCDS was able to classify college nonproblem drinkers (AUDIT <13, n = 224) with 83.2% accuracy, it was no better than chance (49.4%) in classifying potential college problem drinkers (AUDIT score ≥13, n = 85). Using the 4-factor structure, the OCDS is a valid measure of alcohol craving in young adult populations. In this nonclinical set of students, the OCDS classified nonproblem drinkers well but not problem drinkers. Studies need to further examine the utility of the OCDS in young people with alcohol misuse.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2005
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.ADDBEH.2010.01.006
Abstract: Substance-related expectancies are associated with substance use and post-substance use thoughts, feelings and behaviours. The expectancies held by specific cultural or sub-cultural groups have rarely been investigated. This research maps expectancies specific to gay and other men who have sex with men (MSM) and their relationship with substance patterns and behaviours following use, including sexual practices (e.g., unprotected anal intercourse). This study describes the development of a measure of such beliefs for cannabis, the Cannabis Expectancy Questionnaire for Men who have Sex with Men (CEQ-MSM). Items selected through a focus group and interviews were piloted on 180 self-identified gay or other MSM via an online questionnaire. Factor analysis revealed six distinct substance reinforcement domains ("Enhanced sexual experience", "Sexual negotiation", "Cognitive impairment", "Social and emotional facilitation", "Enhanced sexual desire", and "Sexual inhibition"). The scale was associated with consumption patterns of cannabis, and in a crucial test of discriminant validity not with the consumption of alcohol or stimulants. The CEQ-MSM represents a reliable and valid measure of outcome expectancies, related to cannabis among MSM. Future applications of the CEQ-MSM in health promotion, clinical settings and research may contribute to reducing harm associated with substance use among MSM, including HIV transmission.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-1993
DOI: 10.1007/BF01176076
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2005
DOI: 10.1016/J.PSYNEUEN.2004.08.006
Abstract: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is reported in some studies to be associated with increased glucocorticoid (GC) sensitivity. Two common glucocorticoid receptor (GR) polymorphisms (N363S and BclI) appear to contribute to the population variance in GC sensitivity. There is some evidence that there may be a genetic predisposition to PTSD. Hence we studied 118 Vietnam war veterans with PTSD for (i) GR polymorphisms, particularly the N363S and the BclI polymorphisms which are thought to be GC sensitising, and (ii) two measures of GC sensitivity, the low-dose 0.25 mg dexamethasone suppression test (LD-DST) and the dermal vasoconstrictor assay (DVVA). The DST and GR polymorphisms were also performed in 42 combat exposed Vietnam war veterans without PTSD. Basal plasma cortisol levels were not significantly different in PTSD (399.5+/-19.2 nmol/L, N=75) and controls (348.6+/-23.0 nmol/L, N=33) and the LD-DST resulted in similar cortisol suppression in both groups (45.6+/-3.2 vs. 40.8+/-4.1%). The cortisol suppression in PTSD patients does not correlate with Clinician Administered PTSD Scores (CAPS), however there was a significant association between the BclI GG genotype and low basal cortisol levels in PTSD (P=0.048). The response to the DVVA was similar to controls (945+/-122, N=106 vs. 730+/-236, N=28, P=0.42). PTSD patients with the GG genotype, however, tended to be more responsive to DVVA and in this group the DVVA correlated with higher CAPS scores. The only exon 2 GR polymorphisms detected were the R23K and N363S. Heterozygosity for the N363S variant in PTSD, at 5.1% was not more prevalent than in other population studies of the N363S polymorphism in Caucasians (6.0-14.8%). The GG genotype of the BclI polymorphism found to be associated with increased GC sensitivity in many studies showed a tendency towards increased response with DVVA and correlated with higher CAPS scores. In conclusion, the N363S and BclI GR polymorphisms were not more frequent in PTSD patients than controls and reported population frequencies. Our PTSD group did not display GC hypersensitivity, as measured by the LD-DST and DVVA. In a subset of PTSD patients with the BclI GG genotype, CAPS scores and basal cortisol levels were negatively correlated.
Publisher: No publisher found
Date: 2002
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 16-02-2016
DOI: 10.3109/10826084.2015.1110168
Abstract: Alcohol expectancies likely play a role in people's perceptions of alcohol-involved sexual violence. However, no appropriate measure exists to examine this link comprehensively. The aim of this research was to develop an alcohol expectancy measure which captures young adults' beliefs about alcohol's role in sexual aggression and victimization. Two cross-sectional s les of young Australian adults (18-25 years) were recruited for scale development (Phase 1) and scale validation (Phase 2). In Phase 1, participants (N = 201 38.3% males) completed an online survey with an initial pool of alcohol expectancy items stated in terms of three targets (self, men, women) to identify the scale's factor structure and most effective items. A revised alcohol expectancy scale was then administered online to 322 young adults (39.6% males) in Phase 2. To assess the predictive, convergent, and discriminant validity of the scale, participants also completed established measures of personality, social desirability, alcohol use, general and context-specific alcohol expectancies, and impulsiveness. Principal axis factoring (Phase 1) and confirmatory factor analysis (Phase 2) resulted in a target-equivalent five-factor structure for the final 66-item Drinking Expectancy Sexual Vulnerabilities Questionnaire (DESV-Q). The factors were labeled (1) Sexual Coercion, (2) Sexual Vulnerability, (3) Confidence, (4) Self-Centeredness, and (5) Negative Cognitive and Behavioral Changes. The measure demonstrated effective items, high internal consistency, and satisfactory predictive, convergent, and discriminant validity. The DESV-Q is a purpose-specific instrument that could be used in future research to elucidate people's attributions for alcohol-involved sexual aggression and victimization.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 21-09-2022
DOI: 10.1038/S41380-022-01776-4
Abstract: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a heritable (h
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.ADDBEH.2010.12.016
Abstract: Up to fifty per cent of in iduals with Alcohol use disorders (AUD) also have alexithymia a personality construct hypothesized to be related to attachment difficulties. The relationship between alexithymia, craving, anxious attachment and alcohol-dependence severity was examined in 254 patients participating in a Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) program for alcohol-dependence. Participants completed the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20), the Obsessive Compulsive Drinking Scale (OCDS), the Revised Adult Attachment Anxiety Subscale (RAAS-Anxiety) and the Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test (AUDIT). MANOVA indicated that in iduals with alexithymia reported significantly higher levels of total OCDS, obsessive thoughts about alcohol, and compulsive drinking urges and behavior, compared to the non-alexithymic group. Regression analyses found that anxious attachment partially mediated the relationship between alexithymia and craving. Anxious attachment may be a potential treatment target to reduce alcohol consumption in those with alcohol-dependence and alexithymia.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.DRUGALCDEP.2016.10.030
Abstract: Drug-related outcomes expectancies and refusal self-efficacy are core components of Social Cognitive Theory. Both predict treatment outcome in alcohol use disorders. Few studies have reported expectancies and refusal self-efficacy in cannabis dependence. None have examined both, although both constructs are key targets in Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT). This study tests the predictive role of expectancies and refusal self-efficacy in treatment outcome for cannabis dependence. Outpatients completed a comprehensive assessment when commencing cannabis treatment and predictors of treatment outcome were tested. A university hospital alcohol and drug outpatient clinic. 221 cannabis-dependent patients participated in a 6-week CBT program where the goal was abstinence. Cannabis Expectancy Questionnaire and Cannabis Refusal Self-Efficacy Questionnaire, cannabis dependence severity [Severity of Dependence Scale], psychological distress [General Health Questionnaire] at baseline the timeline follow-back procedure at baseline and each session. Patients reporting lower confidence in their ability to resist cannabis during high negative affect (emotional relief refusal self-efficacy) had a lower likelihood of abstinence (p=0.004), more days of use (p<0.001), and larger amount used (p<0.001). Negative cannabis expectancies predicted greater likelihood of abstinence (p=0.024). Higher positive expectancies were associated with lower emotional relief self-efficacy, mediating its association with outcome (p<0.001). Emotional relief refusal self-efficacy and negative expectancies are predictive of better treatment outcomes for cannabis dependence. Positive expectancies may indirectly predict poorer outcome because of a negative association with self-efficacy, but this conclusion remains tentative as directionality could not be established.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2004
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 1987
DOI: 10.3109/10826088709109688
Abstract: Recent literature showed that expectancies or cognitions have been proposed as a major factor in influencing the amount of alcohol an in idual consumes and the behavioral consequences following consumption. However, how alcohol expectancies influence alcohol consumption is unclear this paper reports two studies of the relationship. Study I examined the relationship between alcohol consumption and alcohol-related positive and negative self-statements in 110 social drinkers. The results showed that, in a nondrinking situation, the alcohol expectancies and variables measuring consumption and alcohol-related problems were correlated. Also, subjects who perceived their "alcoholic sets" as negative consumed more than those who perceived theirs as positive. Study II investigated changes in self-statement responding in 8 light and 8 heavy drinkers in a "normal" pub drinking situation. The results showed that alcohol-dependent self-statements in the light drinkers were relatively stable across time and between drinking and nondrinking environments. However, the alcohol-dependent self-statements of heavy drinkers became more negative during the drinking session. Furthermore, the degree and nature of such changes appeared to be related to alcohol-associated problems and consumption.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2010
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2019
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 02-2008
DOI: 10.2190/OM.58.1.B
Abstract: A qualitative study explored beliefs about active voluntary euthanasia (AVE) in a s le ( N = 18) of medical practitioners and nurses from Australia, where AVE is not currently legal. Four behaviors relating to AVE emerged during the interviews: requesting euthanasia for oneself, legalizing AVE, administering AVE to patients if it were legalized, and discussing AVE with patients if they request it. Using thematic analysis, interviews were analyzed for beliefs related to advantages and disadvantages of performing these AVE behaviors. Medical practitioners and nurses identified a number of similar benefits for performing the AVE-related behaviors, both for themselves personally and as health professionals. Benefits also included a consideration of the positive impact for patients, their families, and the health care system. Disadvantages across behaviors focused on the potential conflict between those parties involved in the decision making process, as well as conflict between one's own personal and professional values.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 05-2011
DOI: 10.1111/J.1465-3362.2010.00183.X
Abstract: Long-term use of benzodiazepines remains common, and conveys significant risk. Providing psychological intervention in association with gradual dose reduction increases cessation rates above dose reduction alone, but appropriate psychological support is difficult to obtain. This study was undertaken to assess the outcomes of an uncontrolled case series of an Internet-based cognitive-behaviour therapy for benzodiazepine cessation. Users of benzodiazepines for >3 months who wanted to reduce or cease benzodiazepines participated in the trial. They completed online assessments and accessed 13 newsletters on managing withdrawal symptoms and developing alternate ways to cope with life events. Therapist assistance was provided by email. Follow up was at 3 and 6 months and feedback was obtained via comments and emails. Program ratings and emailed comments of the program were positive. Thirty-two people registered for the program and 14 (44%) completed a 6 month follow up. Of these, eight (57%) reduced weekly intake by at least half, including five (36%) who ceased use. Shorter duration of use and birth outside Australia predicted greater percentage reductions at 3 months, while being living with a partner and being in paid employment predicted reductions at 6 months. While results were encouraging, controlled research is required to confirm the efficacy of the program, and engagement of both users and prescribers needs further attention.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-07-2019
DOI: 10.1002/HPJA.271
Abstract: Stimulant use has been identified as a key risk factor for sexual behaviours leading to HIV transmission. Substance-related expectancies are associated with substance use and postsubstance use thoughts, feelings and behaviours. Expectancies held by specific cultural subgroups have rarely been investigated, particularly regarding a range of commonly used stimulants. The Stimulant Expectancy Questionnaire for Men who have Sex with Men (SEQ-MSM) was initially generated through consumer panel and interviews regarding the most commonly used stimulants among MSM in Australia (meth hetamine, hetamines and ecstasy), with initial administration among 98 MSM to facilitate item reduction. A community s le of 427 MSM was used to validate the SEQ-MSM, with exploratory factor analysis (EFA n = 202) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA n = 225). EFA revealed three distinct substance reinforcement domains ('Enhanced sexual experience', 'Sexual communication and negotiation' and 'Cognitive impairment'). The scale was associated with stimulant consumption patterns (including greater expectancies regarding sexual enhancement among meth hetamine users), and the factor structure, comprising a final form of the MSM-SEQ, was confirmed through CFA. The SEQ-MSM represents a reliable measure of outcome expectancies related to the range of commonly used stimulants among Australian MSM. Development of applied validation studies with the SEQ-MSM is a key next step in advancing health promotion, clinical interventions and research efforts to reduce harm (eg, HIV transmission) associated with stimulant use (particularly meth hetamine) among MSM. SO WHAT?: Objectives: This research maps expectancies specific among gay and men who have sex with men (MSM), and relationships between expectancies and stimulant use patterns and behaviours postuse - including sexual activity (eg, condomless anal sex).
Publisher: Royal College of Psychiatrists
Date: 08-2004
Abstract: Hyperprolactinaemia induced by D 2 dopamine receptor antagonist antipsychotic medication can result in significant health problems. To examine the role of DRD2 polymorphism on prolactin levels in patients treated with antipsychotic medication. Antipsychotic drugs with different degrees of D 2 receptor binding were given to 144 patients with schizophrenia. Serum prolactin levels were obtained and Taq 1A DRD2 alleles were determined. Prolactin levels increased across medication groups reflecting increasingly tight D 2 receptor binding (clozapine, olanzapine, typical antipsychotics and risperidone). In the combined medication group, patients with the DRD2∗A1 allele had 40% higher prolactin levels than patients without this allele. In patients treated with clozapine (the loosest D 2 receptor binding agent), patients with the DRD2∗A1 allele had prolactin levels twice those of patients without this allele. Patients with the DRD2A1 allele receiving antipsychotic medications had higher prolactin levels and were overrepresented among those with hyperprolactinaemia, suggesting greater functional D 2 receptor binding in this group.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 08-08-2014
Publisher: American Medical Association (AMA)
Date: 03-05-2019
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 18-04-2009
DOI: 10.1007/S12529-009-9047-3
Abstract: Worldwide stroke is serious problem and one that necessitates continued efforts towards prevention. The health belief model suggests that improvements in prevention will follow from incorporating strategies that change beliefs, but this approach relies on the availability of tools for measuring such change. The Cerebrovascular Attitudes and Beliefs Scale (CABS-R) was developed to meet this need. The purpose of this study was to investigate the psychometric properties of the CABS-R. In 2007, 126 Brisbane residents aged 50 years and older completed the CABS-R. One month later, 70 participants completed the CABS-R again. Internal consistency, test-retest, and exploratory factor analyses were performed on subscales completed by >60 participants. Analyses showed that the CABS-R has moderate-to-good internal consistency and that scores are relatively stable over time. A four-factor solution was identified, suggesting that the CABS-R validly assesses stroke susceptibility and seriousness and the perceived benefits of and barriers to exercise and weight loss for stroke prevention. This study shows that the CABS-R is useful to gauge changes in stroke beliefs over time. Consistent with the model, a four factor solution was found. The CABS-R may be a useful inclusion in future stroke prevention programs.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 25-03-2016
DOI: 10.1111/ACER.13034
Abstract: Stress, craving, and depressed mood have all been implicated in alcohol use treatment lapses. Few studies have examined all 3 factors. Progress has been limited because of difficulties with craving assessment. The Alcohol Craving Experience Questionnaire (ACE) is a new measure of alcohol craving. It is both psychometrically sound and conceptually rigorous. This prospective study examines a stress-treatment response model that incorporates mediation by craving and moderation by depressed mood and pharmacotherapy. Five hundred and thirty-nine consecutively treated alcohol-dependent patients voluntarily participated in an abstinence-based 12-week cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) program at a hospital alcohol and drug outpatient clinic. Measures of stress, craving, depressed mood, and alcohol dependence severity were administered prior to treatment. Treatment lapse and treatment dropout were assessed over the 12-week program duration. Patients reporting greater stress experienced stronger and more frequent cravings. Stronger alcohol craving predicted lapse, after controlling for dependence severity, stress, depression, and pharmacotherapy. Alcohol craving mediated stress to predict lapse. Depressed mood and anticraving medication were not significant moderators. Among treatment seeking, alcohol-dependent patients, craving mediated the relationship between stress and lapse. The effect was not moderated by depressed mood or anticraving medication.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 02-04-2009
DOI: 10.1080/10550880902772456
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the comparative cost of treating alcohol dependence with either cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) alone or CBT combined with naltrexone (CBT+naltrexone). Two hundred ninety-eight outpatients dependent on alcohol who were consecutively treated for alcohol dependence participated in this study. One hundred seven (36%) patients received adjunctive pharmacotherapy (CBT+naltrexone). The Drug Abuse Treatment Cost Analysis Program was used to estimate treatment costs. Adjunctive pharmacotherapy (CBT+naltrexone) introduced an additional treatment cost and was 54% more expensive than CBT alone. When treatment abstinence rates (36.1% CBT 62.6% CBT+naltrexone) were applied to cost effectiveness ratios, CBT+naltrexone demonstrated an advantage over CBT alone. There were no differences between groups on a preference-based health measure (SF-6D). In this treatment center, to achieve 100 abstainers over a 12-week program, 280 patients require CBT compared with 160 CBT+naltrexone. The dominant choice was CBT+naltrexone based on modest economic advantages and significant efficiencies in the numbers needed to treat.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 26-12-2017
DOI: 10.1111/ACER.13278
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.PSYCHRES.2008.12.014
Abstract: This naturalistic study investigated the mechanisms of change in measures of negative thinking and in 24-h urinary metabolites of noradrenaline (norepinephrine), dopamine and serotonin in a s le of 43 depressed hospital patients attending an eight-session group cognitive behavior therapy program. Most participants (91%) were taking antidepressant medication throughout the therapy period according to their treating Psychiatrists' prescriptions. The s le was ided into outcome categories (19 Responders and 24 Non-responders) on the basis of a clinically reliable change index [Jacobson, N.S., & Truax, P., 1991. a statistical approach to defining meaningful change in psychotherapy research. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 59, 12-19.] applied to the Beck Depression Inventory scores at the end of the therapy. Results of repeated measures analysis of variance [ANOVA] analyses of variance indicated that all measures of negative thinking improved significantly during therapy, and significantly more so in the Responders as expected. The treatment had a significant impact on urinary adrenaline and metadrenaline excretion however, these changes occurred in both Responders and Non-responders. Acute treatment did not significantly influence the six other monoamine metabolites. In summary, changes in urinary monoamine levels during combined treatment for depression were not associated with self-reported changes in mood symptoms.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2022
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 10-01-2019
DOI: 10.1002/PON.4967
Abstract: Sun safety is crucial for preventing skin cancer. This study evaluated a school-based intervention based on the theory of planned behaviour (TPB), which aimed to encourage sun-protective behaviour among adolescents. Secondary school students (N = 382 61.1% female M With baseline between-group differences in TPB variables matched, repeated-measures multivariate analysis of variance was used to evaluate the Time × Condition effects across time. Multigroup comparisons using path models traced the intervariable changes. From times 1 to 3, a significant improvement in weekend sun-protective behaviour was identified in the intervention group (but not the control group), whereas cognitions showed no significant changes across time for either conditions. Multigroup comparisons on path coefficients between the intervention and control group participants indicated that the intervention group members formed stronger positive associations between perceived behavioural control and intention at time 2 and between perceived control and behaviour at time 3. The significant behavioural change on weekends highlights the value of targeting control perceptions, which may encourage adolescents' sun-protective behaviour. Further studies are needed to understand the absence of significant changes in weekday sun-safe behaviour among this at-risk cohort.
No related grants have been discovered for Ross Young.