NIHRDataInsights/HRCSData huggingface dataset:
Title: Assessing the impact of severe mental health illness on the outcomes and complications of cardiovascular disease and diabetes: a national data linkage project
Funder: Chief Scientist Office, Scotland

Abstract: People with major clinical illness (such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder) have higher risks of chronic physical disease, particularly heart disease, stroke and diabetes. Long-term health outcomes may also be worse and there may be differences in the levels of physical healthcare provided. However, this is an understudied area, particularly in countries with universal healthcare access, including Scotland. In this study we will investigate, among patients with diabetes, stroke and heart attack, whether co-morbid major mental illness is related to adverse health outcomes, including death, first or recurrent stroke/heart attack and diabetic complications. We will also examine the extent to which differences in key processes of care (for example diabetes monitoring, admission to stroke unit following stroke and procedures to unblock coronary blood vessels after a heart attack) exist and whether they partly explain any disparities in outcomes. We will do this by linking together and analysing multiple Scottish national population-level routine health datasets. Study findings will: deepen our understanding of the interplay between mental and physical health; have implications for health services to ensure the needs of those with major mental illness are adequately and equitably met; and help direct future research in this area.


Research activity codes: 8.1 ORGANISATION AND DELIVERY OF SERVICES
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH;CARDIOVASCULAR;METABOLIC AND ENDOCRINE;STROKE
Title: The Role of Pericytes and Endothelial Cells in Small Vessel Disease: From Experimental Models to Human Disease
Funder: Wellcome Trust

Abstract: Small vessel disease is a very common neurodegenerative disease that starts in the blood vessels in the brain and causes brain cell death; it accounts for a quarter of all strokes and contributes to over half of dementia cases. Despite its importance in public health, the underlying pathological mechanisms are not entirely understood and there are currently no effective therapeutic interventions. Blood vessel cell dysfunction and the degeneration of specific blood vessel-related cells called pericytes are key catalysts in a series of changes evident in small vessel disease pathology. Using novel cell-specific mouse models, imaging techniques and transcriptomics, we aim to examine the molecular pathways behind blood vessel and pericyte dysfunction, with a particular focus on the mechanisms influencing an impaired communication between the two. We also seek to examine whether there is a relationship between blood markers of pericyte dysfunction in patients and several markers of small vessel disease burden using patient data on neuroimaging and cognition. These studies will help uncover some of the causes and consequences of the neurovascular breakdown observed in small vessel disease and other neurodegenerative disorders and help identify potential targets for therapeutic avenues.


Research activity codes: 2.1 BIOLOGICAL AND ENDOGENOUS FACTORS
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH;CARDIOVASCULAR;NEUROLOGICAL
Title: Towards an early intervention strategy for challenging behaviour in genetic disorders
Funder: Department of Health (England)

Abstract: Challenging behaviour, such as aggression or self-injury, is shown in approximately 1 in 10 children with a learning disability. For children who have particular syndromes, more severe disabilities or autistic like behaviours the prevalence is much higher. Once the children have started showing these behaviours, they tend to last for many years (unless they receive treatment) and will have a wide ranging negative impact upon the child and their families. In a series of studies, I will look at information from 1500 parents of children with thirteen different genetic causes of learning disabilities, otherwise known as syndromes. Using mathematical techniques, I will provide the NHS with more information on how many of these children are showing challenging behaviour and give them estimates of the cost of these behaviours to the NHS and social care services. I will also try to find out if there are any signs (such as specific behaviours) that could help us to predict which children are going to show challenging behaviour so that we can try and work with these children and prevent it from happening. The long term effect of challenging behaviours on families and carers will also be described. Finally I will bring all of my research together in a format which could help the NHS and other services decide whether it would be beneficial to begin to work with children and families in high risk groups early on, to try and prevent these behaviours from developing in the first place.


Research activity codes: 7.1 INDIVIDUAL CARE NEEDS
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH;CONGENITAL DISORDERS
Title: Clinical PhD Programme at the University of Edinburgh: 'Why does R133C, a missense mutation in Methyl-CpG Binding Protein 2, cause Rett Syndrome?
Funder: Wellcome Trust

Abstract: Rett Syndrome is a disabling autistic spectrum disorder that affects girls. Itis mainly caused by mutations in a gene on the X chromosome that makes a protein (MeCP2), which binds DNA. Equivalent mutations cause a severe and fatal illness in males. The most common mutations are known and likely disrupt DNA binding of MeCP2 orits interaction with another protein complex. One mutation, MeCP2 (R133C), seems to do neither, despite being located in a key area of the DNA-binding domain. It is not understood how MeCP2 (R133C) causes Rett Syndrome or why when it does, it is often a milder form. Understanding this might shed more light on the normal functioning of the protein and ultimately ways of treatingthe disease. I will make a mouse with this mutation in order to study its behaviour. In addition, I will make neurons with the mutation and assess the protein's ability to bind DNA as wellas prevent the transcription of the genes.


Research activity codes: 2.1 BIOLOGICAL AND ENDOGENOUS FACTORS
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH;CONGENITAL DISORDERS
Title: Investigating the dysregulation of gene expression in 22q11.2 deletion syndrome with human IPS and ES cells and its link to schizophrenia
Funder: Wellcome Trust

Abstract: We hypothesise that 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11.2DS) has an increased risk to schizophrenia and Parkinsons disease (PD) due to abnormal dopaminergic(DA) neuronal development and/or function, which is the consequence of a global dysregulation of gene expression triggered by the haploinsufficiency ofDGCR8. We will perform a comprehensive analysis of the phenotypes of DA and MSN neurons derived from 22q11.2DS induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC), DGCR8 knock-out human embryonic stem cells (ESC), and if time permit, 22q11.2DS iPSCs overexpressing transgenic DGCR8. Moreover, we will seek further support that DGCR8 has a primary role in 22q11.2DS by analysing the dopaminergic neuron system of DGCR8 conditional knockout mice. This will provide us a unique understanding of the abnormalities caused by thedeletion and by cross-referencing our results and previous genomic studies this study will provide valuable insight to how these deficits may confer riskto schizophrenia and PD.


Research activity codes: 2.1 BIOLOGICAL AND ENDOGENOUS FACTORS
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH;CONGENITAL DISORDERS
Title: Synaptic, Cellular and Neural Circuit Dysfunction in Down Syndrome
Funder: Wellcome Trust

Abstract: Down syndrome (DS) is a common genetic disorder resulting from an extra copy of human chromosome 21 (Hsa21). This gene dosage disorder is characterised by cognitive deficits and early-onset neurodegeneration. It causes significant impact on the quality and longevity of life. Presently, there are no therapies. The key aim of our proposal is to establish the mechanisms by which trisomy 21 causes cognitive impairment in DS. By using a unique complement of segmental trisomy-containing mouse models and human DS induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neurons, together with cutting-edge genetics, biochemistry, imaging, electrophysiology, neural circuit tracing and systems neuroscience, we will identify the genes that cause neurological deficits in DS, define the cells that are affected, and discover the mechanisms that underlie dysfunctional neural communication. Identifying the responsible proteins and their roles in the brain will allow us to devise innovative pharmacological and gene-based therapeutic approaches to reverse the deleterious cognitive phenotypes. Our research strategy is based upon a significant bank of preliminary data. By using the diverse but complementary research skills within our collaborative group, we have the potential to deliver greater understanding of, and life-changing therapies for, people with DS.

Lay abstract: Down syndrome (DS) is a genetic disorder caused by having an extra chromosome, which consequently provides an extra ‘copy’ of many genes that lead to poor memory and decision making. We, and others, have shown that these features arise from too much inhibition of brain activity, which occurs because a brain chemical called GABA is too powerful. By studying the brain’s electrical activity, visualising brain cells, and by using genetic engineering, we will identify the duplicated DS genes and reduce their expression and impact. We will use two unique resources: mouse models with duplicated genes that are involved in DS, and a corresponding set of human stem cells from a DS individual. Working with both will elucidate the mechanisms underlying neurological deficits in DS. By reducing the activity of identified genes, and by dampening brain inhibition using new types of drugs, we aim to develop major advances in treating DS.

Research activity codes: 2.1 BIOLOGICAL AND ENDOGENOUS FACTORS
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH;CONGENITAL DISORDERS;NEUROLOGICAL
Title: 2011 Cochrane Fellowship: Families & Schools Together (FAST) for improving outcomes of school-aged children and their families
Funder: Health and Social Care Research and Development Division (HSC R&D) of Public Health Agency, Northern Ireland

Abstract: This review protocol was first published in 2005 by Nye et al., but was not progressed and later withdrawn. In the interim however, 'Save the Children' and 'Families and Schools Together' (FAST) have formed an alliance with the aims of establishing by 2014, 430 FAST groups across the UK, training some 8,000 practitioners and delivering the program to 50,000 children. Pilots have been running in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland in order to evaluate a UK based version of the programme which is being marketed as a 'solution' to low educational achievement attributed to social deprivation in the UK (Save the Children 2010). The social conditions of economic and social disadvantage which contribute to the risk of failure at school and the potential benefits of improving emotional and social competence within the school and family settings are well established and are as relevant today as when this protocol was first written (Resnick 1997, DOH 2000, Luthar 2006). The FAST program has been implemented in 13 countries worldwide and evaluated both internally and by independent investigators, including at least five randomised controlled trials conducted in the USA. This and the development of FAST away from a 'targeted' to a 'universal' intervention strategy (WCER 2004) increases the importance of having a systematic review carried out of its effects. The 2005 protocol needs to be updated to take into account developments in the methodology underpinning robust research synthesis, and in light of changes in knowledge, policy and practice that have occurred in the interim. Child Outcomes domains will include: behaviour problems, attention problems, anxiety/withdrawal (self esteem) and academic competence, Parent Outcomes: community participation and engagement with the school. Where possible data on the costs and implementation of the program will be sought and summarised.


Research activity codes: 2.3 PSYCHOLOGICAL, SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC FACTORS;8.1 ORGANISATION AND DELIVERY OF SERVICES
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH;DISPUTED AETIOLOGY AND OTHER
Title: Anger management for aggressive behaviour in children and adolescents
Funder: Health and Social Care Research and Development Division (HSC R&D) of Public Health Agency, Northern Ireland

Abstract: Anger and aggression are increasingly recognised as significant social problems The majority of school suspensions in Northern Ireland since 2006 were related to anger/aggression (DENI, May 2013) , including physical or verbal attacks on staff, other pupils or damage to property. In 2011/12 and 2012/13 in Northern Ireland “violence against the person” accounted for 70.6% and 68.7% of crimes committed by those under 18 years old respectively (PSNI, May 2013). Anger management interventions typically aim to increase a person’s ability to manage anger effectively and reduce angry or aggressive outbursts. The proposed review will synthesise evidence from randomised control trials and quasi randomised trials conducted on the effectiveness of anger management for children and young people. Existing Cochrane reviews (Mytton, DiGuiselli, Gough, Taylor & Logan, 2009; Mytton et al., 2002) and other reviews (Hahn et al., 2007; Wilson & Lipsey, 2007) on school based programs are limited in their scope to interventions delivered in schools. There are no current reviews on anger management interventions for children and adolescents that include both school and non-school settings. Participants will be between 0 and 19 years old. Trials including participants with a learning disability will be excluded. Interventions will include any anger management therapy or treatment (excluding drug intervention) that aims to increase anger control and decrease aggressive/violent behaviour. Interventions that only encourage expressing or channelling emotions (e.g. art therapy, exercise) will not be included. Interventions may be of any duration or frequency. Comparisons will be no intervention or treatment as usual. Primary outcome domains will include: i) Anger (as measured by standardised instruments e.g. Speilberger State Trait Anger Inventory) ii) self or other reported angry/aggressive behaviour. Second outcome domains will include; i) self-regulation, ii) offending/violent behaviour, iv) anti-social behaviour, v) social functioning/relationships, vi) acceptability of intervention, vii) cost effectiveness.


Research activity codes: 6.6 PSYCHOLOGICAL AND BEHAVIOURAL;7.3 MANAGEMENT AND DECISION MAKING
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH;DISPUTED AETIOLOGY AND OTHER
Title: Socioeconomic Status as a Common Cause for Smoking, Drinking, and Anxiety and Depression over the Lifecourse
Funder: Chief Scientist Office (Scotland)

Abstract: Anxiety, depression, smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are common health problems which tend to occur together and to be patterned by socioeconomic status. Reducing the prevalence of all of these and reducing socioeconomic inequalities in health are priorities for the Scottish Government. The purpose of this fellowship is to investigate how these health problems develop together over the lifecourse and the pathways by which socioeconomic factors Influence their co-development. Existing knowledge on the co-occurrence of these health problems will be investigated using systematic review methodology. Building on the conclusions from this review the role of socioeconomic factors in the co-occurrence of these health problems will be explored in adolescence, across the transition into young adulthood, and in older adult life. Advanced quantitative techniques for longitudinal data such as latent class and latent transition analysis will be employed to analyse repeated measurements from a Scottish cohort study (Twenty-07), and the British Household Panel Survey (BHPS), which has a Scottish booster sample. Adolescent development can be examined in both the BHPS (ages 11-16) and Twenty-07 (ages 15-18) samples. Both surveys then follow young people into adulthood (as far as their thirties), allowing adolescent development to be related to adult patterning of these problems Changes In these health problems during adulthood can then be examined using data on the older cohorts from the Twenty-07 study (ages 35-75). This research will help identify key intervention points and mechanisms by which the prevalence of these health problems and their socioeconomic inequalities can be reduced.


Research activity codes: 2.3 PSYCHOLOGICAL, SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC FACTORS;2.4 SURVEILLANCE AND DISTRIBUTION
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH;DISPUTED AETIOLOGY AND OTHER
Title: 2010 Doctoral Fellowships: Assessing Domestically Violent Men's Readiness to Engage with Domestic Violence Training Programmes in Northern Ireland
Funder: Health and Social Care Research and Development Division (HSC R&D) of Public Health Agency, Northern Ireland

Abstract: Domestic violence (DV) is a significant health and social problem in Northern Ireland. The main victims, women and children, suffer various physical, psychological and emotional problems arising from assault and trauma, placing an enormous financial burden on the DHSSPS/HSC, estimated by government at between £150-£500 million per annum. Government policy places responsibility upon the DHSSPS/HSC and the NIO to eliminate DV. The Probation Board for Northern Ireland provides the only accredited DV treatment programme (DVTP) for male perpetrators in Northern Ireland. Research studies have established a positive effect for men who complete DVTP but attrition rates, estimated at 22% to 99%, represent an inefficient use of resources. In addition men who do not engage with DVTP programmes are at greater risk of increased recidivism. Previous research has consistently associated attrition rates with men's 'readiness to change'. This study seeks to contribute to knowledge concerning the assessment of men at the point of referral to a DVTP by comparing the utility of two standardised measures for assessing men's readiness to engage with a programme. This will ensure they receive appropriate treatment that will reduce DVTP attrition, reduce recidivism, safeguard victims and reduce the financial burden on the DHSSPS/HSC. The researcher will use a mixed methods approach to collate and analyse quantitative and qualitative data from men court-mandated to attend a DVTP during the period 2008 to 2012. Quantitative data will be collated from psychometric questionnaires and qualitative data collated during semi-structured interviews, using the Biographical Narrative Interpretative Method.


Research activity codes: 7.1 INDIVIDUAL CARE NEEDS;8.1 ORGANISATION AND DELIVERY OF SERVICES
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH;DISPUTED AETIOLOGY AND OTHER
Title: How common are alcohol problems in the UK Police Service and what is the level of comorbidity with mental health problems
Funder: Alcohol Change UK

Abstract: The Police Service in 2015 in England and Wales included 207,140 police workers (61% police officers)1 and any adverse health or social consequences of serving in this occupation will be wide reaching. There are higher levels of alcohol misuse in the UK Armed Forces compared to the general population, particularly in lower-ranked personnel.2 Comparable levels of hazardous use may be expected in the Police Service due to the similarities, including high exposure to traumatic events, irregular working hours and a male-dominated culture which promotes risk-taking behaviours.3 The current study will provide much needed representative data on the prevalence of hazardous alcohol use in the UK Police Service and how this relates to mental health. This research will 1) advance academic research on mental health and risk taking behaviours in the UK police and 2) inform the development of tailored interventions for this occupational group.


Research activity codes: 2.3 PSYCHOLOGICAL, SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC FACTORS
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH;DISPUTED AETIOLOGY AND OTHER
Title: Relationships and Future Fatherhood Programme for Young Incarcerated Men
Funder: Medical Research Council

Abstract: Young incarcerated men (YIM) are a marginalised group with profound health problems and socioeconomic disadvantage (1,2). One in four are fathers (3-5), many of whom may become estranged from their children when imprisoned. Paternal incarceration is a recognised risk factor for intergenerational continuity of offending behaviour and lack of opportunity (6-8). Our proposed intervention is aimed at those who are not yet fathers but may become fathers on leaving prison. This is timely given the UK government's policy shift to reform prisons as sites of rehabilitation and the need for targeted interventions to address this (9-13). The key to young men's rehabilitation is to develop their relationships and parenting skills by helping them understand the importance of fatherhood, and the difference 'good fathering' can make to their future children (14,15). Using participatory methods we will co-produce an evidence-based, user-informed intervention with the YIM. This will include an original interactive video drama and lesson plans, informed through data gathered from them which brings to life realistic scenarios about sexual and mental health, relationships and fatherhood. We seek to improve their sexual and mental health and competence to parent through reflecting on the roles, responsibilities, challenges and consequences. The YIM will gain a better understanding of how their choices impact on their wellbeing and that of their partners and children. In conclusion, we will create a unique intervention, made with YIM for YIM, which addresses gaps in their understanding around sex, relationships and parenting. Our team are experts in relationships, sexuality and parenting education, and delivering public health interventions within prisons. In partnership with stakeholders from prisons, probation services and senior policy makers in Scotland and Northern Ireland, we will also test and develop methods for a feasibility trial to assess and evaluate the intervention


Research activity codes: 3.1 PRIMARY PREVENTION INTERVENTIONS TO MODIFY BEHAVIOURS OR PROMOTE WELL-BEING;7.1 INDIVIDUAL CARE NEEDS
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH;DISPUTED AETIOLOGY AND OTHER
Title: Measuring Distress in Immigration Detention in the UK
Funder: The British Academy

Abstract: Immigration removal centres (IRCs) are highly contested places of confinement. Time within IRCs has been suggested to cause substantial harm and distress, yet few academics have been allowed access. The Measure of the Quality of Life in Detention (MQLD) is a quantitative survey that is designed to be administered in IRCs within the UK. The survey captures demographic data, experiences of detention and measures participant distress. It is the only survey of its kind that has been developed specifically for understanding the characteristics, needs and experiences of immigration detainees with a view to improving detention conditions and policy. This grant is proposed to facilitate the administration, analysis and dissemination of results for a round of survey application. The survey is a ‘self-filled’ questionnaire that can be delivered by a trained research group over a three-day period in each of the eight IRCs currently in operation in the UK.


Research activity codes: 4.1 DISCOVERY AND PRECLINICAL TESTING OF MARKERS AND TECHNOLOGIES
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH;DISPUTED AETIOLOGY AND OTHER