ORCID Profile
0000-0001-5752-2297
Current Organisation
Queen's University Belfast
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Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 17-08-2022
DOI: 10.1186/S13063-022-06553-W
Abstract: Randomised trials, especially those intended to directly inform clinical practice and policy, should be designed to reflect all those who could benefit from the intervention under test should it prove effective. This does not always happen. The UK National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) INCLUDE project identified many groups in the UK that are under-served by trials, including ethnic minorities. This guidance document presents four key recommendations for designing and running trials that include the ethnic groups needed by the trial. These are (1) ensure eligibility criteria and recruitment pathway do not limit participation in ways you do not intend, (2) ensure your trial materials are developed with inclusion in mind, (3) ensure staff are culturally competent and (4) build trusting partnerships with community organisations that work with ethnic minority groups. Each recommendation comes with best practice advice, public contributor testimonials, ex les of the inclusion problem tackled by the recommendation, or strategies to mitigate the problem, as well as a collection of resources to support implementation of the recommendations. We encourage trial teams to follow the recommendations and, where possible, evaluate the strategies they use to implement them. Finally, while our primary audience is those designing, running and reporting trials, we hope funders, grant reviewers and approvals agencies may also find our guidance useful.
Publisher: F1000 Research Ltd
Date: 22-09-2023
Publisher: F1000 Research Ltd
Date: 30-03-2022
DOI: 10.12688/HRBOPENRES.13515.1
Abstract: Background : Testicular cancer (TC) is the most common malignancy in men under 50 years. Athletes are particularly at risk of testicular trauma and diseases. Experiencing negative testicular symptoms does not necessarily imply that men seek help. Men’s awareness of testicular diseases is often lacking and their intention to seek help for testicular symptoms is sub-optimal. The use of virtual reality (VR) may be effective in promoting men’s awareness of testicular diseases. The Enhancing Men's Awareness of Testicular diseases (E-MAT) feasibility trial aims to test the effect of E-MAT VR (intervention interactive experience using virtual reality [VR]) compared to information delivered Electronically E-MAT E (control same information as E-MAT VR delivered as plain text and images) on testicular knowledge, and testicular self-examination among male athletes affiliated with a national sports organisation. The overall aim of this mixed method process evaluation will be to describe (i) the experiences of participants and key stakeholders (e.g., researchers) (ii) the perceived effectiveness of intervention components (iii) acceptability of the feasibility trial and intervention procedures (iv) the relationship between implementation, mechanisms, and context and (v) the barriers and facilitators to support effective conduct of a future definitive trial. Methods: This mixed method process evaluation will use a descriptive realist evaluation. Quantitative data will be gathered using a usability and satisfaction survey, in addition to fidelity checks during intervention delivery. Quantitative data will be analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Qualitative data will be gathered from semi-structured interviews and focus groups with participants and key stakeholders to investigate their experiences of E-MAT VR and E-MAT E , and explore areas for improvement. Thematic analysis of transcripts will be conducted. Conclusions: This process evaluation will provide an in-depth understanding of how the interventions worked within this cohort and lessons for a future definitive trial.
Publisher: American Speech Language Hearing Association
Date: 10-2016
Abstract: The purpose of this article is to describe data collection considerations, methods, and response rates for a survey available both online and on paper. Methodological issues in the design of online data collection, and advantages and disadvantages of different data collection methods are discussed. A survey was compiled that included 9 full or partial clinical questionnaires designed to measure different components relevant to tinnitus distress. It was completed once by 342 members of the public with tinnitus. Respondents could choose whether to complete the survey online or on paper . Ninety-five percent of participants chose to complete the survey online. The advantages of an online self-administered questionnaire include low numbers of unanswered questions, convenience (particularly in a longer survey such as this), a fast return rate, and reduced expense. Age emerged as an important variable, with those opting to complete the paper-based version of the survey being older. Online data collection has several advantages to both participants and researchers. However, cross-sectional studies such as that presented here should also offer paper questionnaires to avoid excluding certain subgroups of the population. Ethics and reporting guidelines for Internet-delivered questionnaire studies are available. These can usefully inform study design and guide high-quality reporting.
Publisher: Center for Open Science
Date: 13-06-2021
Abstract: ObjectivesPhysical distancing, that is keeping 1-2m apart when co-located, can prevent cases of droplet or aerosol transmitted infectious diseases such as SARS-COV2. During the COVID-19 pandemic, distancing was a recommendation or a requirement in many countries. This systematic review aimed to determine which interventions and behaviour change techniques (BCTs) are effective in promoting adherence to distancing and through which potential mechanisms of action (MOAs). MethodsSix databases were searched. The review included studies that were (a) conducted on humans, (b) reported physical distancing interventions, (c) included any comparator (e.g., pre-intervention versus post-intervention randomised controlled trial) and (d) reported actual distancing or predictors of distancing behaviour. Risk of bias was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. BCTs and potential MoAs were identified in each intervention. ResultsSix moderate or high quality papers indicated that distancing interventions could successfully change MoAs and behaviour. Successful BCTs (MoAs) included feedback on behaviour (e.g., motivation) information about health consequences, salience of health consequences (e.g., beliefs about consequences), demonstration (e.g., beliefs about capabilities) and restructuring the physical environment (e.g., environmental context and resources). The most promising interventions were proximity buzzers, directional systems and posters with loss-framed messages that demonstrated the behaviours. ConclusionsThe evidence indicates several BCTs and potential MoAs that should be targeted in interventions and highlights the gaps that should be focused on in future research.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 08-04-2021
DOI: 10.1186/S40798-021-00311-Z
Abstract: In 2018, there were 616,014 registered deaths in the United Kingdom (UK). Grief is a natural consequence. Many mental health concerns, which can be identified as grief outcomes (e.g. anxiety and depression) in those who have experienced a bereavement, can be improved through physical activity. The objective of this review was to identify from the existing literature if physical activity can benefit grief outcomes in in iduals who have been bereaved. A systematic review of nine databases was performed. Included studies (qualitative and quantitative) explored physical activity to help in iduals (of any age) who had experienced a human bereavement (excluding national loss). From 1299 studies screened, 25 met the inclusion criteria, detailing eight types of bereavement (parental ( n = 5), spousal ( n = 6), patient ( n = 4), pre-natal ( n = 3), later life ( n = 1), caregiver ( n = 1), multiple ( n = 4) and non-defined ( n = 1). Activities including yoga, running, walking and martial arts were noted as beneficial. Physical activity allowed a sense of freedom, to express emotions, provided a distraction and an escape from grief, whilst enhancing social support. There is some evidence that physical activity may provide benefit for the physical health and psychological wellbeing of those who have been bereaved, including when the loss has happened at a young age. This review is timely, given the wide-scale national loss of life due to COVID-19 and extends knowledge in this area. More research is needed to explore the benefits of physical activity for those who have been bereaved. In particular, there is a need for well-designed interventions which are tailored to specific activities, populations and grief outcomes.
Publisher: Center for Open Science
Date: 30-04-2020
Abstract: BACKGROUNDDigital contact tracing apps have been proposed as a method of controlling the spread of Covid-19. The effectiveness of this tool depends largely on adequate levels of uptake (e.g. whether the user downloads and registers on the application) and engagement (e.g. the extent of usage of the application or its components over time). It has been estimated that approximately 60% of the population would need to use the NHSX application in order for it to be effective in reducing the spread of COVID-19. It is therefore crucial that we understand the level of, and factors influencing, uptake and engagement with digital tracing applications in order to put appropriate measures in place to mitigate those issues.AIMS1.To quantify the current data on COVID-19 digital contact tracing applicationsa.Uptake and engagement of COVID-19 digital contact tracing applicationsb.Examine whether uptake differs between countries c.Identify any predictors or correlates of uptake and engagement2.To conduct two scoping reviews to identify key barriers and facilitators influencing engagement and uptake of a.COVID-19 digital contact tracing applications b.Health behaviour change applications, including government approved applications, from academic literature and behaviour change guidelinesCONCLUSIONS•There is no evidence on the level of uptake and engagement with COVID-19 digital contact tracing applications.•There is a dearth of evidence regarding the barriers and facilitators to uptake and engagement with COVID-19 digital contact tracing applications.•The health behaviour change literature suggests a number of barriers and facilitators associated with uptake and engagement with applications.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 22-05-2023
DOI: 10.1007/S11469-023-01065-3
Abstract: Over 100 million in iduals worldwide experience negative outcomes as a function of a family member or loved one’s substance use. Other reviews have summarized evidence on interventions however, success often depends on the behavior of the in idual causing harm, and they may not be ready or able to change. The aim of this study was to identify and describe evaluations of psychosocial interventions which can support those affected by alcohol harm to others independent of their drinking relative or friend. A systematic review/narrative synthesis of articles from 11 databases pre-registered on PROSPERO (CRD42021203204) was conducted. Those experiencing the harm were spouses artners or adult children/students who have parents with alcohol problems. Studies ( n = 7) were from the UK, the USA, Korea, Sweden, Mexico, and India. Most participants were female (71–100%). Interventions varied from guided imagery, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and anger management. Independent interventions may support those affected by another’s alcohol use, although there was considerable variation in outcomes targeted by the intervention design. Small-scale studies suggest psychosocial interventions ease suffering from alcohol’s harm to others, independent of the drinking family member. Understanding affected others’ experience and need is important given the impact of alcohol’s harm to others however, there is a lack of quality evidence and theoretical underpinning informing strategies to support these in iduals.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 25-10-2023
DOI: 10.1111/HEX.13898
Publisher: Akademiai Kiado Zrt.
Date: 03-2015
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 08-04-2010
DOI: 10.1007/S10802-010-9414-1
Abstract: An alternative models framework was used to test three confirmatory factor analytic models for the Short Leyton Obsessional Inventory-Children's Version (Short LOI-CV) in a general population s le of 517 young adolescent twins (11-16 years). A one-factor model as implicit in current classification systems of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), a two-factor obsessions and compulsions model, and a multidimensional model corresponding to the three proposed subscales of the Short LOI-CV (labelled Obsessions/Incompleteness, Numbers/Luck and Cleanliness) were considered. The three-factor model was the only model to provide an adequate explanation of the data. Twin analyses suggested significant quantitative sex differences in heritability for both the Obsessions/Incompleteness and Numbers/Luck dimensions with these being significantly heritable in males only (heritability of 60% and 65% respectively). The correlation between the additive genetic effects for these two dimensions in males was 0.95 suggesting they largely share the same genetic risk factors.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 20-02-2015
Publisher: Center for Open Science
Date: 16-12-2020
Abstract: Background: Public health teams need to understand how the public responds to vaccination messages in a pandemic or epidemic to inform successful c aigns encouraging the uptake of new vaccines as they become available. Methods: A rapid systematic review was performed by searching PsycINFO, MEDLINE, healthevidence.org, OSF Preprints and PsyArXiv Preprints in May 2020 for studies including at least one health message promoting vaccine uptake of droplet spread viruses. Non-English language studies and dissertations were excluded in line with using rapid review methodology. Included studies were assessed for quality using the MMAT or AMSTAR, and for patient and public involvement (PPI) in designing and/or conducting the research. Results: Thirty-five articles were included. Most reported messages for seasonal influenza (n=11 31%) or H1N1 (n = 11 31%) and only seven studies (20%) s led vulnerable populations at higher risk of mortality/morbidity from viruses, e.g. older adults. Evidence from moderate to high quality studies for improving vaccine uptake included providing: information about virus risks, vaccination safety, and addressing misunderstandings about vaccination, vaccination reminders, detail about vaccination clinics and their locations, and mixed media c aigns at scale across hospitals or communities. Behavioural influences (beliefs and intentions) were improved when shorter messages, risk-reducing, or relative risk framing was used, the benefits of vaccination to society were emphasised, and beliefs about capability to be vaccinated and concerns among target populations (e.g. about vaccine safety) were addressed. Clear, credible, messages in language target groups can understand were found acceptable. Two studies (6%) described PPI in the research process. Conclusions: This review has identified effective messages to encourage vaccination and improve vaccination beliefs and intentions. Future c aigns should consider the beliefs and information needs of target populations in their design. Findings were inconclusive whether the medium through which the message was delivered, e.g. text message, affected outcomes. More high quality research is needed to demonstrate the behavioural outcomes of messaging interventions.
Publisher: Future Medicine Ltd
Date: 04-2022
Abstract: Aim: To reveal the association of three class I HLA alleles, including HLA-A*33:03, HLA-B*58:01 and HLA-C*03:02, and allopurinol-induced severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCARs) in Vietnamese patients. Methods: A case–control study on 100 allopurinol-induced SCARs patients, 183 tolerant controls and 810 population controls was performed. The HLA-A*33:03 and HLA-C*03:02 alleles were detected with the nested allele-specific PCR method the HLA-B*58:01 allele was detected with the sequence-specific primer PCR method. Results: There were strong associations between HLA-B*58:01 and HLA-C*03:02 and allopurinol-induced SCARs. Specific associations were found between HLA-B*58:01 and Stevens–Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis and between HLA-C*03:02 and drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms, with a gene dosage effect. The multivariate regression analysis indicated two significant independent risk factors: HLA-B*58:01/HLA-C*03:02 and estimated glomerular filtration rate ml/min/1.73 m 2 . The specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of HLA-B*58:01 testing were higher than the HLA-C*03:02 or the multiplex testing, especially in patients with impaired renal function. Conclusion: The results supported pre-treatment HLA-B*58:01 testing in Vietnamese patients with declined renal function to prevent SCARs.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2005
Abstract: Adverse reactions to polysubstance misuse are common in nightclubs, yet little is known of the physiological effects of polysubstance misuse in this environment. This study examined the heart rate, blood pressure and oral temperature of 50 participants recruited in a nightclub on four separate nights. In addition, the increase in environmental temperature was recorded throughout each night. There were no differences in oral temperature between polysubstance misusers (i.e. those who used Ecstasy, hetamine, cocaine, alcohol and cannabis) and alcohol/cannabis misusers. On the other hand, there were significant differences in both heart rate and blood pressure between the two groups. These data suggest that polysubstance misusers may be at risk from cardio- and cerebrovascular toxicity. Further field/on-site work is clearly needed to investigate the effects of polysubstance misuse.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2023
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 11-2013
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2023
DOI: 10.1177/20552076231155684
Abstract: A core outcome set (COS) has been developed in alcohol brief intervention (ABI) research through international consensus. This study aimed to estimate order effects among questions in the COS. In iduals aged 18 or older who searched online for alcohol-related help were invited to complete the COS. The order of questions was randomised following a factorial design. Primary outcomes were order effects among the COS items and patterns of attrition. Between 21/10/2020 and 26/11/2020, we randomised 7334 participants, of which 5256 responded to at least one question and were available for analyses. Current non-drinkers were excluded. We found evidence of higher self-reported average consumption and odds of harmful and hazardous drinking was found among those who first answered questions on recent consumption and impact of alcohol use. Lower self-reported recent consumption was found among those first asked about average consumption. Quality of life (QoL) was reported lower among those who first responded to when questions on impact of alcohol use were asked first, which in turn was lower among those who first answered question on when average consumption and QoL were asked first. Attrition was lowest when average consumption was asked first, and highest when QoL or impact of alcohol use was asked first. Median completion time for the COS was 4.3 min. Question order affects outcomes and attrition. If the aim is to minimize attrition, consumption measures should be asked before QoL and impact of alcohol use however, this order impacts self-reported alcohol consumption and so researchers should be guided by study priorities. At a minimum, all participants should be asked the same questions in the same order. The trial was prospectively registered (ISRCTN17954645).
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2017
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 28-07-2007
Abstract: To assess the psychometric structure and construct validity of the alcohol use disorder identification test (AUDIT) in a Great Britain population s le. A stratified multi-stage random s le of 7849 participants completed the AUDIT as part of a computer assisted interview. Confirmatory factor analyses were conducted testing one to three factor models. The factors in these models were correlated with demographic variables and scores relating to perceived wellbeing, verbal IQ, and neurotic and psychosis symptoms to assess construct validity of the factor solutions. A two factor solution was deemed to appropriately fit the data, measuring alcohol consumption and alcohol related problems. Correlations between the two factors on demographic, wellbeing, neurosis and psychosis symptomology were significantly different. The two factor solution suggests an advantage to investigating factor specific cut off scores for both consumption and alcohol related problems given their difference in predictive validity on both health and demographic variables.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 03-2014
DOI: 10.1038/507040E
Publisher: Center for Open Science
Date: 22-06-2021
Abstract: Background: Public health emergencies require rapid responses from experts. Differing viewpoints are common in science, however, “mixed messaging” of varied perspectives can undermine credibility of experts, reduce trust in guidance, and act as a barrier to changing public health behaviours. Collation of a unified voice for effective knowledge creation and translation can be challenging. This work aimed to create a method for rapid psychologically-informed expert guidance during the COVID-19 response. Method: TRICE (Template for Rapid Iterative Consensus of Experts) brings structure, peer-review, and consensus to the rapid generation of expert advice. It was developed and trailed with 17 core members of the British Psychological Society COVID-19 Behavioural Science and Disease Prevention Taskforce. Results: Using TRICE, we have produced 15 peer-reviewed COVID-19 guidance documents based on rapid systematic reviews, co-created by experts in behavioural science and public health, taking 4-155 days to produce, with approximately 17 experts and a median of 10 drafts per output. We provide worked-ex les and key considerations, including a shared ethos and theoretical/methodological framework, in this case, the Behaviour Change Wheel and COM-B. Conclusion: TRICE extends existing consensus methodologies and has supported public health collaboration, co-creation of guidance and translation of behavioural science through explicit processes in generating expert advice for public health emergencies.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 05-06-2013
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 05-07-2023
DOI: 10.3389/FPUBH.2023.1130875
Abstract: The use of behavioural science and behaviour change within local authorities and public health has supported healthful change as evidenced by its importance and contribution to reducing harm during the COVID-19 pandemic. It can provide valuable information to enable the creation of evidence-based intervention strategies, co-created with the people they are aimed at, in an effective and efficient manner. This study aimed to use the COM-B model to understand the Capability, Opportunity and Motivation of performing a constellation of eight COVID-19 disease prevention behaviours related to the slogans of ‘Hands, Face, Space, Fresh Air’ ‘Find, Isolate, Test, (FIT), and Vaccinate’ in those employed in workplaces identified as high risk for transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) to support intervention development. This qualitative study recruited twenty-three participants (16 female, 7 male), who were interviewed from three environments (schools, care homes, warehouses) across three local authorities. Semi-structured interviews were analysed using thematic analysis. Ten core themes were identified inductively (1) knowledge and skills, (2) regulating the behaviour, (3) willingness to act, (4) necessity and concerns, (5) emotional impact, (6) conducive environment, (7) societal influence, (8) no longer united against COVID-19, (9) credible leadership, and (10) inconsistent adherence to COVID-19 prevention behaviours. Themes were then deductively mapped to the COM-B model of behaviour change and the theoretical domains framework and a logic model using the behaviour change wheel (BCW) was produced to inform intervention design. This study offers a novel approach to analysis that has included eight behaviours within a single thematic analysis and COM-B diagnosis. This will enable local authorities to direct limited resources to overarching priorities. Of key importance, was the need for supportive and credible leadership, alongside developing interventions collaboratively with the target audience. COVID-19 has had an emotional toll on those interviewed, however, promoting the value of disease prevention behaviours, over and above their costs, can facilitate behaviour. Developing knowledge and skills, through education, training, marketing and modelling can further facilitate behaviour. This supports guidance produced by the British Psychological Society COVID-19 behavioural science and disease prevention taskforce.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 31-12-2019
DOI: 10.1097/AUD.0000000000000826
Abstract: There is a great deal of variation in the extent to which people with tinnitus find it distressing, which cannot be explained solely by differences in perceived loudness. The Cognitive Behavioral Model of Tinnitus Distress proposes that tinnitus becomes and is maintained as a distressing problem due to a process of interaction between negative thoughts, negative emotions, attention and monitoring, safety behavior, and beliefs. This study used path analysis to assess how well different configurations of this model fit using questionnaire data obtained from people with tinnitus. This was a cross-sectional study. Three hundred forty-two members of the public with tinnitus volunteered to complete a survey comprising a series of questionnaires and subscales of questionnaires measuring each of the constructs contained within the Cognitive Behavioral Model of Tinnitus Distress. The optimum factor structure of each measure for the study population was established, and the resulting factors were used to construct a series of path models based on the theoretical model. Path analysis was conducted for each of these, and the goodness of fit of the models was assessed using established fit criteria. Five of the six path models tested reached the threshold for adequate fit, and further modifications improved the fit of the three most parsimonious of these. The two best-fitting models had comparable fit indices which approached the criteria for good fit (Root Mean Square Error of Approximation = 0.061, Comparative Fit Index = 0.984, Tucker Lewis Index = 0.970 and Root Mean Square Error of Approximation = 0.055, Comparative Fit Index = 0.993, Tucker Lewis Index = 0.982). They differed principally in the placement of tinnitus magnitude and the inclusion/noninclusion of control beliefs. There are theoretical arguments to support both a beliefs-driven and a loudness-driven model, and it may be that different configurations of the Cognitive Behavioral Model of Tinnitus Distress are more appropriate to different groups of people with tinnitus. Further investigation of this is needed. This notwithstanding, the present study provides empirical support for a model of tinnitus distress which provides a clinical framework for the development of more effective psychological therapy.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 19-02-2015
DOI: 10.1111/DAR.12243
Abstract: Attitudes to in iduals presenting with alcohol-related issues are important in developing therapeutic relationships and applying alcohol-related interventions. This study explores staff attitudes to these in iduals across a range of roles and departments. Data were gathered from 204 staff in the Southern Health and Social Care Trust in Northern Ireland. Regression models were used to predict attitudes as measured by the Short Alcohol and Alcohol Problems Perception Questionnaire (SAAPPQ). Two hundred and four people participated in the study. The s le comprised doctors, nurses, allied health professionals and other staff who had face-to-face contact with patients. Staff worked in accident and emergency (A&E), medical, surgical, addiction or psychiatry departments. Staff working in addiction and psychiatry departments had significantly higher levels of role adequacy compared with those in A&E. Staff in addictions also demonstrated higher levels of role legitimacy, motivation and role satisfaction than those in A&E. Doctors had higher role adequacy and role legitimacy than nursing staff. There are critical differences in staff attitudes to patients presenting with alcohol-related issues in a range of hospital settings training and working in a specialist setting have a significant positive influence on staff attitudes. This suggests that further training and support would positively enhance the attitudes of staff in a variety of professional roles and across a range of hospital settings in the management of patients presenting with alcohol-related difficulties. [Iqbal N, McCambridge O, Edgar L, Young C, Shorter GW. Health-care professionals' attitudes across different hospital departments regarding alcohol-related presentations. Drug Alcohol Rev 2015 :487-94].
Publisher: Akademiai Kiado Zrt.
Date: 03-2015
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2022
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 09-2017
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 02-2021
DOI: 10.2196/26578
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 09-05-2008
Abstract: Attempts have been made to develop typologies to classify different types of alcoholism. However, limited research has focused on classifications to describe general patterns of alcohol use in general population s les. Latent class analysis was used to create empirically derived behaviour clusters of alcohol consumption and related problems from the Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test (AUDIT) based on data from a large stratified multi-stage random s le of the population of Great Britain. Multinomial logistic regression was performed to describe these resultant classes using both demographic variables and mental health outcomes. Six classes best described responses in the s le data. Three were heavy consumption groups, one with multiple negative consequences, one experiencing alcohol-related injury and social pressures to cut down and an additional class with memory loss. There was one moderate class with few negative consequences, and finally two mild consumption groups, one with alcohol-related injury and social pressure to cut down and one with no associated problems. Alcohol use in Great Britain can be hypothesized as reflecting six distinct classes, four of which follow a continuum of increased consumption leading to increased dependence and related problems and two that do not. Differences between alcohol use classes are apparent with reduced risk of depressive episode in moderate classes and an increased risk of anxiety disorders for the highest consumers of alcohol.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 03-04-2015
DOI: 10.1080/15504263.2015.1027630
Abstract: Many in iduals receiving methadone maintenance receive their treatment through their primary care provider. As many also drink alcohol excessively, there is a need to address alcohol use to improve health outcomes for these in iduals. We examined problem alcohol use and its treatment among people attending primary care for methadone maintenance treatment, using baseline data from a feasibility study of an evidence-based complex intervention to improve care. Data on addiction care processes were collected by (1) reviewing clinical records (n = 129) of people who attended 16 general practices for methadone maintenance treatment and (2) administering structured questionnaires to both patients (n = 106) and general practitioners (GPs) (n = 15). Clinical records indicated that 24 patients (19%) were screened for problem alcohol use in the 12 months prior to data collection, with problem alcohol use identified in 14 (58% of those screened, 11% of the full s le). Of those who had positive screening results for problem alcohol use, five received a brief intervention by a GP and none were referred to specialist treatment. Scores on the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) revealed the prevalence of hazardous, harmful, and dependent drinking to be 25% (n = 26), 6% (n = 6), and 16% (n = 17), respectively. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) for the proportion of patients with negative AUDITs was 0.038 (SE = 0.01). The ICCs for screening, brief intervention, and/or referral to treatment (SBIRT) were 0.16 (SE = 0.014), -0.06 (SE = 0.017), and 0.22 (SE = 0.026), respectively. Only 12 (11.3%) AUDIT questionnaires concurred with corresponding clinical records that a patient had any/no problem alcohol use. Regular use of primary care was evident, as 25% had visited their GP more than 12 times during the past 3 months. Comparing clinical records with patients' experience of SBIRT can shed light on the process of care. Alcohol screening in people who attend primary care for substance use treatment is not routinely conducted. Interventions that enhance the care of problem alcohol use among this high-risk group are a priority.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2023
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2017
Publisher: Center for Open Science
Date: 09-03-2022
Abstract: Randomised trials, especially those intended to directly inform clinical practice and policy, should be designed to reflect all those who could benefit from the intervention under test should it prove effective. This does not always happen. The UK National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) INCLUDE project identified many groups in the UK that are under-served by trials, including ethnic minorities. This guidance document presents four key recommendations for designing and running trials that include the ethnic groups needed by the trial. These are: 1. Ensure eligibility criteria and recruitment pathway do not limit participation in ways you do not intend 2. Make sure your trial materials are developed with inclusion in mind 3. Ensure staff are culturally competent 4. Build trusting partnerships with community organisations that work with ethnic minority groups. Each recommendation comes with best practice advice, public contributor testimonials, ex les of the inclusion problem tackled by the recommendation, or strategies to mitigate the problem, as well as a collection of resources to support implementation of the recommendations. We encourage trial teams to follow the recommendations and, where possible, evaluate the strategies they use to implement them. Finally, while our primary audience is those designing, running and reporting trials, we hope funders, grant reviewers and approvals agencies may also find our guidance useful.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 31-01-2023
DOI: 10.1186/S12889-022-14542-6
Abstract: Physical activity benefits physical and mental health. However, limited research investigates if physical activity can improve outcomes from the grieving process following the death of a parent. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 14 in iduals ( n = 8 female age M = 31.2 years), who had experienced the death of a parent when they were aged between 10 and 24 years old, using retrospective recall. Data were analysed inductively using thematic analysis. Six themes were identified. Physical activity was seen as 1) ‘ Therapeutic’ providing an 2) ‘ Emotional Outlet’ and created a strong sense of 3) ‘ Social Support’ . Alongside it 4) ‘ Builds Confidence’ , and led to 5) ‘ Finding Yourself’ and 6) ‘ Improved Health and wellbeing’ (physical and psychological). Physical activity has the potential to provide positive experiences following a parental bereavement. It can provide a sense of freedom and was seen to alleviate grief outcomes, build resilience, enable social support and create a stronger sense of self. Bereavement support services for young people who have experienced death of a parent should consider physical activity as a viable intervention to support the grieving process.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 25-10-2012
DOI: 10.1007/S10899-012-9341-X
Abstract: Gambling has typically been considered a predominately male activity. However, recent prevalence surveys have shown greater numbers of females are now gambling. Much of the gambling literature suggests online gamblers are more likely to be male, and that problem gamblers are more likely to be male. Males and females are also likely to be gambling for different reasons and have a preference for different gambling activities. Little is known about the pattern of play among female online gamblers. The aim of this survey was to develop a better profile of female online gamblers and to examine any gender differences between males and females in terms of how and why they gamble online, their frequency of online gambling, patterns of play, as well as attitudes to online gambling. The survey was posted on 32 international online gambling websites and was completed by 975 online gamblers (including 175 female online gamblers). Chi-square tests of association were conducted to examine the association between gender and a range of variables. The results showed that females had been gambling online for a shorter duration of time than males, had much shorter online gambling sessions, different motivations for gambling online (i.e., to practice for free, to spend less money and out of boredom), and experienced online gambling differently to males, with increased feelings of guilt and shame for gambling online. This suggests there is still a stigma around gambling particularly evident among females in this study. The findings indicate that clinicians and treatment providers need to be aware of these potential gender differences in online gambling to develop appropriately tailored interventions.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 18-06-2020
DOI: 10.1186/S13063-020-04495-9
Abstract: Trial oversight is important for trial governance and conduct. Patients and/or lay members of the public are increasingly included in trial oversight committees, influenced by international patient and public involvement (PPI) initiatives to improve the quality and relevance of research. However, there is a lack of guidance on how to undertake PPI in trial oversight and tokenistic PPI remains an issue. This paper explores how PPI functions in existing trial oversight committees and provides recommendations to optimise PPI in future trials. This was part of a larger study investigating the role and function of oversight committees in trials facing challenges. Using an ethnographic study design, we observed oversight meetings of eight UK trials and conducted semi-structured interviews with members of their trial steering committees (TSCs) and trial management groups (TMGs) including public contributors, trial sponsors and funders. Thematic analysis of data was undertaken, with findings integrated to provide a multi-perspective account of how PPI functions in trial oversight. Eight TSC and six TMG meetings from eight trials were observed, and 66 semi-structured interviews conducted with 52 purposively s led oversight group members, including three public contributors. PPI was reported as beneficial in trial oversight, with public members contributing a patient voice and fulfilling a patient advocacy role. However, public contributors were not always active at oversight meetings and were sometimes felt to have a tokenistic role, with trialists reporting a lack of understanding of how to undertake PPI in trial oversight. To optimise PPI in trial oversight, the following areas were highlighted: the importance of planning effective strategies to recruit public contributors considering the level of oversight and stage(s) of trial to include PPI support for public contributors by the trial team between and during oversight meetings. We present evidence-based recommendations to inform future PPI in trial oversight. Consideration should be given at trial design stage on how to recruit and involve public contributors within trial oversight, as well as support and mentorship for both public contributors and trialists (in how to undertake PPI effectively). Findings from this study further strengthen the evidence base on facilitating meaningful PPI within clinical trials.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 17-12-2020
Abstract: core outcome set (COS) for trials and evaluations of the effectiveness and efficacy of alcohol brief interventions (ABIs) has recently been established through international consensus to address the variability of outcomes evaluated. his is a protocol for studies to assess if there are order effects among the questions included in the COS. he 10 items of the COS are organized into 4 clusters. A factorial design will be used with 24 arms, where each arm represents 1 order of the 4 clusters. In iduals searching online for help will be asked to complete a questionnaire, and consenting participants will be randomized to 1 of the 24 arms (double-blind with equal allocation). Participants will be included if they are 18 years or older. The primary analyses will (1) estimate how the order of the clusters of outcomes affects how participants respond and (2) investigate patterns of abandonment of the questionnaire. ata collection is expected to commence in November 2020. A Bayesian group sequential design will be used with interim analyses planned for every 50 participants completing the questionnaire. Data collection will end no more than 24 months after commencement, and the results are expected to be published no later than December 2023. omogenizing the outcomes evaluated in studies of ABIs is important to support synthesis, and the COS is an important step toward this goal. Determining whether there may be issues with the COS question order may improve confidence in using it and speed up its dissemination in the research community. We encourage others to adopt the protocol as a study within their trial as they adopt the ORBITAL (Outcome Reporting in Brief Intervention Trials: Alcohol) COS to build a worldwide repository and provide materials to support such analysis. SRCTN Registry ISRCTN17954645 www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN17954645
Publisher: Alcohol Research Documentation, Inc.
Date: 09-2021
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 03-2021
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2013
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 20-01-2021
Abstract: Public health teams need to understand how the public responds to vaccination messages in a pandemic or epidemic to inform successful c aigns encouraging the uptake of new vaccines as they become available. A rapid systematic review was performed by searching PsycINFO, MEDLINE, healthevidence.org, OSF Preprints and PsyArXiv Preprints in May 2020 for studies including at least one health message promoting vaccine uptake of airborne-, droplet- and fomite-spread viruses. Included studies were assessed for quality using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) or the Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR), and for patient and public involvement (PPI) in the research. Thirty-five articles were included. Most reported messages for seasonal influenza (n = 11 31%) or H1N1 (n = 11 31%). Evidence from moderate to high quality studies for improving vaccine uptake included providing information about virus risks and vaccination safety, as well as addressing vaccine misunderstandings, offering vaccination reminders, including vaccination clinic details, and delivering mixed media c aigns across hospitals or communities. Behavioural influences (beliefs and intentions) were improved when: shorter, risk-reducing or relative risk framing messages were used the benefits of vaccination to society were emphasised and beliefs about capability and concerns among target populations (e.g., vaccine safety) were addressed. Clear, credible, messages in a language target groups can understand were associated with higher acceptability. Two studies (6%) described PPI in the research process. Future c aigns should consider the beliefs and information needs of target populations in their design, including ensuring that vaccine eligibility and availability is clear, and messages are accessible. More high quality research is needed to demonstrate the effects of messaging interventions on actual vaccine uptake.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 20-03-2021
DOI: 10.1002/JTS.22666
Abstract: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol use are highly prevalent among military veteran populations. Several theories have been proposed to account for the comorbidity between PTSD and problematic alcohol use, but research examining the symptom‐level associations between the two is limited. The current study used network analysis to examine the associations between PTSD and problematic alcohol use. Data were collected through a cross‐sectional survey of veterans of the United Kingdom Armed Forces living in Northern Ireland. The s le comprised 511 (91.2% male) veterans with a history of trauma exposure and current alcohol use. A network consisting of PTSD symptoms from the PTSD Checklist for DSM‐5 (PCL‐5) and items from the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) was constructed, and the bridge centrality of all items was estimated to identify items with the highest number of associations and the strongest associations between the two constructs. The PTSD symptom “reckless behavior” (2.43) had the highest bridge centrality values and thus the strongest connections and most connections to the alcohol use items. For the alcohol use items, “not being able to stop drinking” (2.31) and “number of drinks” (1.24) demonstrated the strongest bridge connections to the PTSD items. These results highlight the role of specific PTSD symptoms involved in the interaction between PTSD and problematic alcohol use.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2017
Publisher: Alcohol Research Documentation, Inc.
Date: 2014
DOI: 10.15288/JSAD.2014.75.170
Abstract: Substance use and childhood maltreatment experience are linked, but little is known about the association with polydrug use patterns. Latent class analyses (LCA) were performed on eight illicit drugs in a random population s le of young Danes separated by sex (males: n = 1,555 females: n = 1,425). Logistic regressions explored associations of polydrug use patterns and childhood maltreatment. A three-class solution best described patterns of polydrug use in both the male and female s les. Across all LCA models, Class 1 was characterized by in iduals who represented wide-range polydrug users, endorsing many of the drug types (males = 8% females = 2%). Class 2 was characterized by hetamine, cannabis, cocaine, and amyl nitrate users (males = 18% females = 7%). Class 3 was characterized by in iduals who endorsed either low-level use of cannabis only or no drug use (males = 74% females = 91 %). For males, having been a child-protection case was associated with Classes 1 and 2 and for females with Class 2, compared with Class 3. Alcohol problems were associated with Classes 1 and 2 for both sexes. Sexual abuse was associated with Classes 1 and 2 for females but not males, whereas physical abuse was associated with Classes 1 and 2 for males but not females, as compared with Class 3. Separate sex analyses are important although patterns of polydrug use are broadly similar, females are less frequently polydrug users. In addition, different relationships exist for the sexes, such that polydrug use patterns are associated with sexual abuse in females, whereas such patterns are associated with physical abuse in young males.
Publisher: Alcohol Research Documentation, Inc.
Date: 03-2022
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 14-01-2014
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 29-10-2022
Abstract: In 2021, during a drug-related death crisis in the UK, the Government published its ten-year drugs strategy. This article, written in collaboration with the Faculty of Public Health and the Association of Directors of Public Health, assesses whether this Strategy is evidence-based and consistent with international calls to promote public health approaches to drugs, which put ‘people, health and human rights at the centre’. Elements of the Strategy are welcome, including the promise of significant funding for drug treatment services, the effects of which will depend on how it is utilized by services and local commissioners and whether it is sustained. However, unevidenced and harmful measures to deter drug use by means of punishment continue to be promoted, which will have deleterious impacts on people who use drugs. An effective public health approach to drugs should tackle population-level risk factors, which may predispose to harmful patterns of drug use, including adverse childhood experiences and socioeconomic deprivation, and institute evidence-based measures to mitigate drug-related harm. This would likely be more effective, and just, than the continuation of policies rooted in enforcement. A more dramatic re-orientation of UK drug policy than that offered by the Strategy is overdue.
Publisher: OMICS Publishing Group
Date: 2013
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.DRUGALCDEP.2010.08.010
Abstract: Polydrug use potentially increases the likelihood of harm. As little is known about polydrug use patterns in the general population, it is difficult to determine patterns associated with highest likelihood. Latent class analysis was performed on nine illicit substance groups indicating past year use of cannabis, cocaine, hetamines, ecstasy, LSD, mushrooms, amyl nitrate, tranquillisers and heroin or crack. Analyses were based on data from a large multi-stage probability s le of the population of Great Britain (n=8538) collected in 2000. Multinomial logistic regression was performed highlighting associations between classes, and demographic and mental health variables. A three class solution best described patterns of polydrug use wide range, moderate range, and no polydrug use. For males and young people, there was a significantly increased chance of being in the wide and moderate range polydrug use groups compared to the no polydrug use class. Hazardous drinking was more likely in the wide and moderate polydrug classes with odds ratios of 9.99 and 2.38 (respectively) compared to the no polydrug use class. Current smokers were more likely to be wide and moderate range polydrug users compared to the no polydrug use class with odds ratios of 4.53 and 5.85 respectively. A range of mental health variables were also related to class membership. Polydrug use in Great Britain can be expressed as three distinct classes. Hazardous alcohol use and tobacco use were strongly associated with illicit polydrug use, polydrug use appeared to be significantly associated with mental health, particularly lifetime suicide attempts.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 08-05-2014
DOI: 10.1111/DAR.12150
Abstract: To examine alcohol consumed during a drinking event (a single drinking occasion) by those attending public house/on-trade establishments on nights with standard pricing and nights with promotional prices. Data (n = 425) were collected in an ecological momentary assessment over eight nights in two locations (Midlands and London) on both promotional and standard (Saturday) nights. Multiple regression was used to predict event alcohol consumption by sex, age, type of night, alcohol preloading behaviour, marital and employment status, education, Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test alcohol consumption questions separately or total AUDIT-C and social group size. Mean (UK) units consumed were 11.8 (London) and 14.4 (Midlands). In London, consumption was similar on promotional and standard nights, but in the Midlands, standard night consumption was three units higher. Preloading was reported by 30% more common on standard nights. Regression analyses revealed being male, preloading and past-year total AUDIT-C were associated with higher event consumption. However, when AUDIT-C questions were added separately, being a standard night was associated with increased event consumption and different AUDIT-C questions were significantly associated with event consumption in each location. Event consumption reflected heavy episodic drinking and was influenced by price. Promotional night consumption either matched standard Saturday night consumption or was slightly lower. In London, there was a significant preference for drinking at least one promotional beverage on promotional nights. On standard nights, consumption was over a wider range of venues, and preloading with off-trade alcohol was more likely.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 19-10-2013
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 03-06-2019
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2022
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 06-09-2016
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 02-2017
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 13-02-2022
Abstract: Background: It is estimated that approximately 41,000 children and young people experience the death of a parent each year. Grief responses, such as anxiety and depression, can follow. This research investigated the adult reflections of experiencing parental death as a young person. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with adults (N = 14 female n = 8) who experienced parental death as a young person, which occurred over 5 years ago (time since death, M = 12.9 years age at death, M = 16.4 years age at interview, M = 30.9 years). The data were analysed inductively using thematic analysis. Results: Seven themes revealed that parental bereavement can lead to (1) “Distance and isolation” and is an (2) “Emotional journey” with (3) a “Physical impact”. Many experienced (4) “Post-traumatic growth” but acknowledged that (5) “Life will never be the same”, highlighting the importance of (6) “Support and understanding” and triggers for (7) “Re-grief”. Conclusions: Parental bereavement has significant emotional and physical consequences, but can also lead to personal growth. Talking therapies were rarely accessed, often due to a lack of awareness or desire to engage, revealing a translational gap between existing support services and uptake. Enabling open conversations about grief and identifying suitable support is a public health priority. This need has been lified since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, which may be a trigger for grief empathy and re-grief in those who have already been bereaved.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2014
Publisher: Center for Open Science
Date: 07-12-2022
Abstract: Background: Representation of all members of society within research, especially those typically underserved, is needed to ensure that trial evidence applies to the relevant population, and that effective interventions are available to all. The lack of appropriate and representative options in demographic questions around sex, gender and sexuality may result in the exclusion of LGBTQIA+ people from health research. Main body: Sex and gender are not the same, yet this is rarely recognised in trial data collection, with the terms sex and gender often being used interchangeably. Sex or gender is often used as a stratification factor at randomisation and/or to define sub-groups at the time of data analysis, so correct data collection is essential for producing high-quality science. Sexuality also suffers from ‘othering’ with identities not being acknowledged but simply provided as an alternative to the perceived main identities. When collecting sexuality information, it is important to consider the purposes of collecting this data.Conclusion: We call on those involved in trials to consider how sex, gender and sexuality data are collected, with an active consideration of inclusivity. Through the description of all non-straight, non-cisgender people as ‘other’ you may be ignoring the needs of these populations and doing science, yourself, and them a disservice. Inclusivity may require small but important changes to ensure your research findings are inclusive and develop the evidence base for often overlooked populations. (currently under review at Trials Journal)
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 04-05-2019
Publisher: Alcohol Research Documentation, Inc.
Date: 05-2019
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2008
Publisher: Center for Open Science
Date: 29-10-2023
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 21-10-2016
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 12-05-2016
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 30-03-2023
DOI: 10.1186/S13063-023-07278-0
Abstract: Representation of all members of society within research, especially those typically underserved, is needed to ensure that trial evidence applies to the relevant population, and that effective interventions are available to all. The lack of appropriate and representative options in demographic questions around sex, gender and sexuality may result in the exclusion of LGBTQIA + people from health research. Sex and gender are not the same, yet this is rarely recognised in trial data collection, with the terms sex and gender often being used interchangeably. Sex or gender is often used as a stratification factor at randomisation and/or to define sub-groups at the time of data analysis, so correct data collection is essential for producing high-quality science. Sexuality also suffers from ‘othering’ with identities not being acknowledged but simply provided as an alternative to the perceived main identities. When collecting sexuality information, it is important to consider the purposes of collecting this data. We call on those involved in trials to consider how sex, gender and sexuality data are collected, with an active consideration of inclusivity. Through the description of all non-straight, non-cisgender people as ‘other’ you may be ignoring the needs of these populations and doing science, yourself, and them a disservice. Inclusivity may require small but important changes to ensure your research findings are inclusive and develop the evidence base for often overlooked populations.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 05-11-2016
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 07-2016
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 16-11-2015
Publisher: Akademiai Kiado Zrt.
Date: 03-2013
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 27-09-2010
Abstract: To identify population-based clinical and demographic correlates of alcohol use dimensions. Using data from a population-based s le of Great Britain (n = 7849), structural equation modelling (SEM) was used to identify associations between demographic and clinical variables and two competing dimensional models of the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT). A two-factor SEM fit best. In this model, Factor 1, alcohol consumption, was associated with male sex, younger age, lower educational attainment, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and suicide attempts. Factor 2, alcohol-related problems, was associated with the demographic variables (to a lesser extent) and to a wider range of clinical variables, including depressive episode, GAD, mixed anxiety and depressive disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, phobia, suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts. The one-factor SEM was associated with demographic and all assessed clinical correlates however, this model did not fit the data well. Two main conclusions justify the two-factor approach to alcohol use classification. First, the model fit was considerably superior and, second, the dimensions of alcohol consumption and alcohol-related problems vary considerably in their associations with measures of demographic and clinical risk. A one-factor representation of alcohol use, for instance, would fail to recognize that measures of affective/anxiety disorders are more consistently related to alcohol-related problems than to alcohol consumption. It is suggested therefore that to fully understand the complexity of alcohol use behaviour and its associated risk, future research should acknowledge the basic underlying dimensional structure of the construct.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 26-11-2020
DOI: 10.2196/24175
Abstract: A core outcome set (COS) for trials and evaluations of the effectiveness and efficacy of alcohol brief interventions (ABIs) has recently been established through international consensus to address the variability of outcomes evaluated. This is a protocol for studies to assess if there are order effects among the questions included in the COS. The 10 items of the COS are organized into 4 clusters. A factorial design will be used with 24 arms, where each arm represents 1 order of the 4 clusters. In iduals searching online for help will be asked to complete a questionnaire, and consenting participants will be randomized to 1 of the 24 arms (double-blind with equal allocation). Participants will be included if they are 18 years or older. The primary analyses will (1) estimate how the order of the clusters of outcomes affects how participants respond and (2) investigate patterns of abandonment of the questionnaire. Data collection is expected to commence in November 2020. A Bayesian group sequential design will be used with interim analyses planned for every 50 participants completing the questionnaire. Data collection will end no more than 24 months after commencement, and the results are expected to be published no later than December 2023. Homogenizing the outcomes evaluated in studies of ABIs is important to support synthesis, and the COS is an important step toward this goal. Determining whether there may be issues with the COS question order may improve confidence in using it and speed up its dissemination in the research community. We encourage others to adopt the protocol as a study within their trial as they adopt the ORBITAL (Outcome Reporting in Brief Intervention Trials: Alcohol) COS to build a worldwide repository and provide materials to support such analysis. ISRCTN Registry ISRCTN17954645 www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN17954645 PRR1-10.2196/24175
Publisher: Research Square Platform LLC
Date: 11-11-2022
DOI: 10.21203/RS.3.RS-2250961/V1
Abstract: Introduction: Over 100 million in iduals worldwide experience negative outcomes as a function of a family member's substance use. Other reviews have summarized evidence on interventions however, success often depends on the behavior of the in idual causing harm, and they may not be ready or able to change. Aim: To identify and describe evaluations of psychosocial interventions which can support those affected by alcohol harm to others independent of their drinking relative or friend. Methods: A systematic review/narrative synthesis of articles from 11 databases pre-registered on PROSPERO (CRD42021203204). Results: Those experiencing the harm were spouses artners, or adult children/students who have parents with alcohol problems. Studies (n=7) are from the UK, USA, Korea, Sweden, Mexico, and India. Most participants were female (71-100%). Interventions varied from guided imagery, cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and anger management. Independent interventions may support those affected by another's alcohol use, although there was considerable variation in outcomes targeted by the intervention design. Conclusions: Small-scale studies suggest brief interventions ease suffering from alcohol's harm to others, independent of the drinking family member. Understanding affected others’ experience and need is important given the impact of alcohol’s harm to others however, there is a lack of quality evidence informing strategies to support these in iduals.
Publisher: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
Date: 2021
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.DRUGPO.2022.103670
Abstract: The United Kingdom (UK) is currently experiencing a public health crisis of drug-related deaths. The government has rejected recommendations to open overdose prevention services, under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. To report on the operation and use of an unsanctioned overdose prevention service which operated in Glasgow city centre from September 2020 to May 2021. Description of the service, with analysis of data collected on its use. The service operated for nine months without permission or funding from official sources. We report on the 894 injections supervised and recorded, and nine successful interventions with overdose events (seven opioid/two cocaine). Powder cocaine injection predominated either alone (60.6%) or with heroin (22.1%). Injection was mostly in the groin (68.0%) or arm (16.8%). More injections were recorded by males (70.1%). Around 65% of injection events featured an in idual who was on a buprenorphine/methadone prescription. It is feasible for an overdose prevention service to operate successfully in the UK without being shut down by the police or with negative consequences for the community. Future sites in the UK must tailor to the substances used by their potential clients, international trends (e.g. for fentanyl use) did not apply here. There is an urgent need and demand for these services in the UK to reduce harm, prevent and intervene during overdose, and provide vital psychosocial support for health and wellbeing in a highly marginalised population.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2020
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 29-09-2021
Abstract: Background: Public health emergencies require rapid responses from experts. Differing viewpoints are common in science, however, “mixed messaging” of varied perspectives can undermine credibility of experts reduce trust in guidance and act as a barrier to changing public health behaviours. Collation of a unified voice for effective knowledge creation and translation can be challenging. This work aimed to create a method for rapid psychologically-informed expert guidance during the COVID-19 response. Method: TRICE (Template for Rapid Iterative Consensus of Experts) brings structure, peer-review and consensus to the rapid generation of expert advice. It was developed and trialled with 15 core members of the British Psychological Society COVID-19 Behavioural Science and Disease Prevention Taskforce. Results: Using TRICE we have produced 18 peer-reviewed COVID-19 guidance documents based on rapid systematic reviews co-created by experts in behavioural science and public health taking 4–156 days to produce with approximately 18 experts and a median of 7 drafts per output. We provide worked-ex les and key considerations including a shared ethos and theoretical/methodological framework in this case the Behaviour Change Wheel and COM-B. Conclusion: TRICE extends existing consensus methodologies and has supported public health collaboration co-creation of guidance and translation of behavioural science to practice through explicit processes in generating expert advice for public health emergencies.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 19-06-2015
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 23-02-2022
DOI: 10.1186/S12954-022-00599-4
Abstract: Naloxone-based interventions as part of health systems can reverse an opioid overdose. Previous systematic reviews have identified the effectiveness of naloxone however, the role of context and mechanisms for its use has not been explored. This realist systematic review aims to identify a theory of how naloxone works based on the contexts and mechanisms that contribute to the success of the intervention for improved outcomes. Pre-registered at PROSPERO, this realist review followed RAMESES standards of reporting. Keywords included 'naloxone' and ' opioid overdose'. All study designs were included. Data extraction using 55 relevant outputs based on realist logic produced evidence of two middle-range theories: Naloxone Bystander Intervention Theory and Skills Transfer Theory. Harm reduction and/or low threshold contexts provide a non-judgemental approach which support in-group norms of helping and empower the social identity of the trained and untrained bystander. This context also creates the conditions necessary for skills transfer and diffusion of the intervention into social networks. Stigma and negative attitudes held by first responders and stakeholders involved in the implementation process, such as police or GPs, can prohibit the bystander response by inducing fear in responding. This interferes with skills transfer, naloxone use and carriage of naloxone kits. The findings provide theoretically informed guidance regarding the harm reduction contexts that are essential for the successful implementation of naloxone-based interventions. Peer-to-peer models of training are helpful as it reinforces social identity and successful skills transfer between bystanders. Health systems may want to assess the prevalence of, and take steps to reduce opioid-related stigma with key stakeholders in contexts using a low threshold training approach to build an environment to support positive naloxone outcomes. PROSPERO 2019 CRD42019141003.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 09-2016
Publisher: Alcohol Research Documentation, Inc.
Date: 05-2019
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2014
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 2017
DOI: 10.1097/AUD.0000000000000365
Abstract: Researchers and clinicians consider thinking to be important in the development and maintenance of tinnitus distress, and altering thoughts or thinking style is an object of many forms of psychological therapy for tinnitus. Those working with people with tinnitus require a reliable, psychometrically robust means of measuring both positive and negative thinking related to it. The Tinnitus Cognitions Questionnaire (TCQ) was designed as such a measure and its authors showed it to be reliable, with good psychometric properties. However, no research teams have yet carried out independent validation. This study aimed to use the TCQ to investigate thinking amongst members of the general population with both bothersome and nonbothersome tinnitus and also to verify its factor structure. Three hundred forty-two members of the public with tinnitus completed the TCQ online or on paper. They also rated their tinnitus on a scale as “not a problem,” “a small problem,” “a moderate problem,” “a big problem,” or a “very big problem.” The authors tested the original factor structure of the TCQ using confirmatory factor analysis and then calculated the mean scores for each item, comparing mean total scores across “problem categories” for the full questionnaire and for the positive and negative subscales. The original two-factor structure of the TCQ was a good fit to the data when the correlation between positive and negative factors was fixed at zero (root mean square error of approximation = 0.064, 90% confidence interval = 0.058 to 0.070). Items pertaining to wishing the tinnitus would go away and despairing that it would ever get better had the highest mean scores. The mean total score for the “no problem” group (M = 31.17, SD = 16.03) was not significantly different from the mean total score for the “small problem” group (M = 34.00, SD = 12.44, p = 0.99). Differences between mean scores for all other groups were statistically significant. For the negative subscale, differences were statistically significant between all problem categories. For the positive subscale, the differences between mean scores were only statistically significant for the “no problem” group (M = 28.40, SD = 17.11) compared with the “moderate problem” group (M = 18.55, SD = 8.64, p = 0.02) and for the “moderate problem” group compared with the “very big problem” group (M = 26.79, SD = 11.66, p = 0.002). Positive and negative factors were uncorrelated ( ρ = −0.03.) The TCQ is a valid measure of positive and negative thinking in tinnitus, and the authors recommend its use in research and therapeutic settings. Negative thinking appears to be associated with more problematic tinnitus, but positive thinking is not associated with unproblematic tinnitus, suggesting that reducing negative thinking may be more important than teaching positive thinking in therapy.
Publisher: IEEE
Date: 09-2019
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 09-11-2019
DOI: 10.1186/S13063-019-3710-Z
Abstract: Recruitment and retention of participants are both critical for the success of trials, yet both remain significant problems. The use of incentives to target participants and trial staff has been proposed as one solution. The effects of incentives are complex and depend upon how they are designed, but these complexities are often overlooked. In this paper, we used a scoping review to ‘map’ the literature, with two aims: to develop a checklist on the design and use of incentives to support recruitment and retention in trials and to identify key research topics for the future. The scoping review drew on the existing economic theory of incentives and a structured review of the literature on the use of incentives in three healthcare settings: trials, pay for performance, and health behaviour change. We identified the design issues that need to be considered when introducing an incentive scheme to improve recruitment and retention in trials. We then reviewed both the theoretical and empirical evidence relating to each of these design issues. We synthesised the findings into a checklist to guide the design of interventions using incentives. The issues to consider when designing an incentive system were summarised into an eight-question checklist. The checklist covers: the current incentives and barriers operating in the system who the incentive should be directed towards what the incentive should be linked to the form of incentive the incentive size the structure of the incentive system the timing and frequency of incentive payouts and the potential unintended consequences. We concluded the section on each design aspect by highlighting the gaps in the current evidence base. Our findings highlight how complex the design of incentive systems can be, and how crucial each design choice is to overall effectiveness. The most appropriate design choice will differ according to context, and we have aimed to provide context-specific advice. Whilst all design issues warrant further research, evidence is most needed on incentives directed at recruiters, optimal incentive size, and testing of different incentive structures, particularly exploring repeat arrangements with recruiters.
Publisher: Alcohol Research Documentation, Inc.
Date: 2022
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 04-07-2023
DOI: 10.1007/S11896-023-09579-1
Abstract: This review aimed to assess the use of positive psychology interventions (PPIs), such as using positive mantras, expressive writing, or gratitude diaries, to improve the health behaviours, psychological wellbeing and/or physical health of police staff. The review was registered on PROSPERO before 16 electronic databases were searched for published articles between January 1999 and February 2022. Included studies offered PPIs to improve the physical health (body mass index, blood pressure), psychological well-being (stress, anxiety, mood, emotion, depression, self-efficacy), or health behaviours (physical activity, sitting times, dietary habits, alcohol, or tobacco use) of police staff. The mixed methods appraisal tool (MMAT) was used to assess the risk of bias of included papers. The initial search yielded 4560 results with 3385 papers remaining after duplicates were removed. Of these, 15 studies were included in the final review. Intervention types included mindfulness-based resilience training ( n = 11), physical or wellness practice classes ( n = 1), role-play and scenario-based interventions ( n = 2) and expressive writing ( n = 1). Mindfulness-based interventions improved many psychological wellbeing facets such as anxiety, depression, negative affect and quality of life. Limited improvements were observed for some health behaviours such as alcohol consumption and in self-reported general health. Expressive writing and role-play-based interventions were effective in reducing stress and anxiety, however, improvement in depression scores were inconsistent across studies. Positive psychology interventions are promising to support the health and wellbeing of police staff. Future research should investigate their mechanisms of action to support future innovation in support for police wellbeing.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 02-11-2015
Publisher: Akademiai Kiado Zrt.
Date: 09-2014
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 07-09-2020
Abstract: core outcome set (COS) for trials and evaluations of the effectiveness and efficacy of alcohol brief interventions (ABIs) has recently been established through international consensus to address the variability of outcomes evaluated. his is a protocol for studies to assess if there are order effects among the questions included in the COS. he 10 items of the COS are organized into 4 clusters. A factorial design will be used with 24 arms, where each arm represents 1 order of the 4 clusters. In iduals searching online for help will be asked to complete a questionnaire, and consenting participants will be randomized to 1 of the 24 arms (double-blind with equal allocation). Participants will be included if they are 18 years or older. The primary analyses will (1) estimate how the order of the clusters of outcomes affects how participants respond and (2) investigate patterns of abandonment of the questionnaire. ata collection is expected to commence in November 2020. A Bayesian group sequential design will be used with interim analyses planned for every 50 participants completing the questionnaire. Data collection will end no more than 24 months after commencement, and the results are expected to be published no later than December 2023. omogenizing the outcomes evaluated in studies of ABIs is important to support synthesis, and the COS is an important step toward this goal. Determining whether there may be issues with the COS question order may improve confidence in using it and speed up its dissemination in the research community. We encourage others to adopt the protocol as a study within their trial as they adopt the ORBITAL (Outcome Reporting in Brief Intervention Trials: Alcohol) COS to build a worldwide repository and provide materials to support such analysis. SRCTN Registry ISRCTN17954645 www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN17954645 RR1-10.2196/24175
Location: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Location: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Location: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Location: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Location: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Location: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
No related grants have been discovered for Gillian Shorter.