NIHRDataInsights/HRCSData huggingface dataset:
Title: Cognitive behavioural therapy for people with Asperger Syndrome and anxiety disorders: A pilot randomised control trial.
Funder: Department of Health (England)

Abstract: Background There is a body of literature demonstrating that children, adolescents and adults with Asperger Syndrome (AS) have signifincant problems with anxiety. There is evidence to suggest that cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) is an effective treatment for anxiety, and there is a growing interest in examining the utility of cognitive behaviour therapy for people with AS who have mental health problems Currently, there are no known clinical trials in the United Kingdom of cognitive behaviour therapy for anxiety amongst adults with AS, although there are studies examining this in children from other countries. There are known methods of modification to therapy for this client group and it is appropriate to undertake a limited trial with adults with AS in the United Kingdom. Aims To determine whether or not modified CBT can successfully reduce the symptoms of anxiety experienced by people with AS, and whether or not this intervention is cost effective. We will make use of a simple open trial design incorporating pre-, post- and follow-up assessment of anxiety. A mixture of clinican ratings and self-ratings of anxiety will be used. The intervention will be modified individual CBT delivered by trained CBT therapists, and the assessment of anxiety will be completed by research assistants who will be blind to group allocation. Plan of Investigation This study will be a randomised single blind cross over trial of CBT for people with AS who have clinically significant levels of anxiety. Thirty five participants will be recruited from the counties of Norfolk and Kent through the National Autistic Society, learning disability teams, Asperger/Autism teams, and adult mental health teams Levels of symptomatology will be measured pre- and post-group and at follow-up by research assistants who will be blind to group allocation. This will generate data regarding the effectiveness of this type of psychological intervention with people who have AS. . Potential Impact There are only a few dedicated mental health care teams around the UK for people with AS so that often those with AS who have psychological needs are seen in learning disability or mental health teams Many people with AS, however, are told they fail to meet eligibility criteria of these teams, leading to dissatisfaction with services. The prevalence of anxiety disorders amongst people with AS is significantly higher than the general population, yet very few services offer cognitive behavioural therapy to this population. This project will lead to the development of an anxiety treatment package for people with AS, and will generate some initial evidence as to whether or not cognitive behavioural therapy is an effective treatment for anxiety amongst people with AS.


Research activity codes: 6.6 PSYCHOLOGICAL AND BEHAVIOURAL
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH
Title: A study to investigate the feasibility and acceptability of an intervention to improve staff and patient relationships in psychiatric rehabilitation settings
Funder: Department of Health (England)

Abstract: The quality of staff-patient relationships is a key determinant of outcome. There are often problems in these relationships on psychiatric rehabilitation wards. This is a programme of research to develop and test an intervention to improve staff-patient relationships in these settings. The current project will assess the feasibility and acceptability of the intervention by comparing wards who receive the intervention with those who do not. Findings will inform larger scale RCTs of the intervention. It is anticipated that in improving staff-patient relationships, the intervention will lead to improvements in patient outcomes, staff stress and morale and ward environment.


Research activity codes: 6.6 PSYCHOLOGICAL AND BEHAVIOURAL;5.6 PSYCHOLOGICAL AND BEHAVIOURAL
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH
Title: A multimodal approach for predicting the onset of psychosis
Funder: Department of Health (England)

Abstract: My major objective is to develop a method for identifying those who will go on to develop a psychotic illness once preliminary psychotic symptoms emerge. This will facilitate the delivery of potentially preventative clinical interventions to those in whom they are most needed. I hypothesize that the onset of psychosis in individuals at high risk is determined by the interaction of genetic vulnerability, environmental stressors and structural brain abnormalities. I will use information on the influence of these risk-factors on the transition to psychosis of subjects with prodromal symptoms to develop a clinical software tool that can be used to predict the risk of illness in a given individual.


Research activity codes: 2.3 PSYCHOLOGICAL, SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC FACTORS;2.1 BIOLOGICAL AND ENDOGENOUS FACTORS
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH
Title: The mental health of newly arrived refugee and asylum-seeking children: developing a school-based psychological treatment package for front-line workers to treat mental health problems
Funder: Department of Health (England)

Abstract: There is increasing evidence that refugee children are at considerable risk of psychological disturbance. Substantial numbers of these children are arriving in the UK. They are a particularly hard group to reach through standard health services. Schools are an environment where such children can be accessed and helped as most are attending school or have made some links with their local educational services. The overall aim of this fellowship is to develop a sustainable psychological intervention package using evidence-based materials which can be implemented by front-line workers (special language support and educational needs teachers, social workers and other members of teaching staff). These workers already spend considerable time supporting refugee children, so providing them with additional therapeutic skills is a sustainable way of reaching high numbers of children and, if successful, could be a model for providing support to other groups of vulnerable children. This proposal aims to develop an intervention package and assess its feasibility when delivered by trained school personnel. In addition, the experiences of both workers delivering the intervention and children receiving it will be explored to gauge the acceptability of the treatment and its mode of delivery. This feasibility study will be used to give a preliminary indication of the clinical benefit of the intervention and inform future development of the work


Research activity codes: 5.6 PSYCHOLOGICAL AND BEHAVIOURAL
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH
Title: Cultural Differences in the Processes involved in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Funder: Department of Health (England)

Abstract: Objective: To investigate the influence of culture on the two key processes (memory and appraisals) involved in the treatment of PTSD. Design: Two parallel strands of investigation are proposed. Strand 1 focuses on theoretical development and is comprised of two studies. Study 1 will assess cultural differences in trauma survivors' memories and appraisals of trauma and the influence of these differences on PTSD. Study 2 extends this by using a cross-country design. Strand 2 focuses on methodological advancement of a new paradigm for trauma research. Outcomes: It is hypothesised that culture will influence the relationship between memory, appraisals and PTSD. Anticipated Benefits: The research will improve the cultural appropriateness of PTSD models and mental health services.


Research activity codes: 5.6 PSYCHOLOGICAL AND BEHAVIOURAL;1.2 PSYCHOLOGICAL AND SOCIOECONOMIC PROCESSES
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH
Title: Development of a trial for a new intervention to improve drug services for drug-dependent sex-workers
Funder: Department of Health (England)

Abstract: drug addiction seriously affects the health of women selling sex on the street (SSWs). They find treatment for drug addiction challenging, so have a lot to gain if we could design better services for them. We are planning to pull together existing evidence relating to drug services for SSWs, then interview SSWs and people working in drug services to see what they think. Combining these two approaches will guide the development of a new model of drug services for SSWs. Focus groups will give SSWs an opportunity to give their views on the new service model. To test if the new model is better it needs to be compared with existing drug services. We will do a small pilot study, to find out the pitfalls ready for a large study. A spin-off of this research will be new knowledge that is useful for improving health services for other hard-to-reach groups.


Research activity codes: 7.1 INDIVIDUAL CARE NEEDS
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH
Title: Childhood adversity, stress sensitivity, and psychosis: an experience sampling study
Funder: Department of Health (England)

Abstract: Background: Recent models of psychosis suggest that stress sensitivity may have a role in the onset of psychosis.Objectives: To investigate whether elevated stress sensitivity is a mechanism through which exposure to childhood adversity may increase risk for psychosis.Design: The Experience Sampling Method, an innovative, structured diary technique, will be used to assess stress sensitivity in cases with first episode psychosis, siblings of cases, and population-based controls, half exposed and half not exposed to childhood adversity.Anticipated benefits: Existing interventions of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy will be modified to target stress sensitivity in the development of psychotic symptoms


Research activity codes: 2.3 PSYCHOLOGICAL, SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC FACTORS;1.2 PSYCHOLOGICAL AND SOCIOECONOMIC PROCESSES
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH
Title: The impact of post-traumatic stress disorder on psychotherapy for borderline personality disorder
Funder: Department of Health (England)

Abstract: Objectives: To test the hypothesis that comorbid post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) leads to poor outcomes from psychological treatments for borderline personality disorder (BPD), and to explore reasons for this. Design: A cohort study of 90 patients with BPD evaluating the effect of PTSD on outcome and potential mediators, combined with a qualitative study using in depth interviews to explore psychological factors impacting treatment for BPD. Expected outcomes and benefit to patients: Evidence that can inform changes to assessment and treatment for people with BPD, which could lead to better patient outcomes and more effective use of resources.


Research activity codes: 6.6 PSYCHOLOGICAL AND BEHAVIOURAL
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH
Title: Healthcare Associated Infection Research Network
Funder: Department of Health (England)

Abstract: Background The HCAI-RN aims to: · Establish a focus for the strategic development of HCAI research · Coordinate with other research funders to explore how best to bring relevant research into the managed network · Provide a resource for the management of DH funded HCAI research · Provide advice and assisting with the development of specific DH research topics · Developing research at TVU which supports the DH HCAI action plan. Aims HISTORIC PROJECT - Entire abstract transferred from the previous database into the [Scientific summary background] field of this database. Plan of Investigation HISTORIC PROJECT - Entire abstract transferred from the previous database into the [Scientific summary background] field of this database. Potential Impact HISTORIC PROJECT - Entire abstract transferred from the previous database into the [Scientific summary background] field of this database. Policy Relevance The CMO report 'winning ways' set out priorities for healthcare associated infection research. One requirement highlighted was the need to develop a national research network and this proposal is to underpin the development and management of an HCAI research network in England.


Research activity codes: 8.5 RESOURCES AND INFRASTRUCTURE (HEALTH SERVICES)
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH
Title: Policy Research Unit in Health of Children, Young People and Families
Funder: Department of Health (England)

Abstract: Background Abstract fields will be updated once work programme negotiation with DH has been completed. Aims Abstract fields will be updated once work programme negotiation with DH has been completed. Plan of Investigation Abstract fields will be updated once work programme negotiation with DH has been completed. Potential Impact Abstract fields will be updated once work programme negotiation with DH has been completed.


Research activity codes: 8.1 ORGANISATION AND DELIVERY OF SERVICES;2.4 SURVEILLANCE AND DISTRIBUTION
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH
Title: The role of IBA training in non-medical settings
Funder: Alcohol Research UK

Abstract: IBA has been shown to be effective in medical/clinical/specialist settings but results regarding its use in non medical settings are less clear and there are continuing problems of implementation across all settings. Using theories of ‘therapeutic commitment’ and organisational change, this study will examine the interaction between the training programme; trainee/ workforce characteristics; and organisational contexts - which impact on the delivery of IBA post-training in non-medical organisations/agencies. Qualitative interviews and a structured survey will be used to gather data in 118 non-medical organisations where IBA training was delivered by Alcohol Concern. Ten organisations will be investigated in depth (case study approach); the remaining organisations will be surveyed. An interim workshop will discuss case study findings with a sample of managers/trainees. The results will contribute to understanding factors influencing mainstreaming and sustainability of IBA post training in non-medical contexts. The proposal addresses the Identification, Treatment and Recovery priority.


Research activity codes: 7.3 MANAGEMENT AND DECISION MAKING
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH
Title: Development of the Addiction Therapist Rating Scale (ATRS)
Funder: Alcohol Research UK

Abstract: The project will develop a rating scale to score the performance of therapists in delivering the active components of evidence based addiction treatments – thus, the scale will be generic and applicable in routine practice. The project comprises of three studies: Study 1, scale development, which combines our earlier work on measuring protocol compliance with identification of active components of treatment. Study 2, validation of the scale by re-examination of data derived in studies using three different treatment protocols. Study 3, focuses on implementation and will pilot the scale at a specialist addiction unit. The final version of the scale will provide a useful tool for training and supervision, which has the potential to impact on therapist competence and patient outcomes.


Research activity codes: 8.1 ORGANISATION AND DELIVERY OF SERVICES
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH
Title: A tablet for healthy ageing? Testing the acceptability and usability of tablet PCs to improve the health and wellbeing of older adults
Funder: The Dunhill Medical Trust

Abstract: Cognitive decline is one of the most feared aspects of ageing, and is a major determinant of health, independence and quality of life. While cognitive abilities show characteristic age-related changes, there is considerable interindividual variation. Modifiable determinants of cognitive ageing are therefore being sought to inform the development of interventions to reduce, delay, halt or even reverse cognitive ageing. Remaining cognitively, socially and physically active is recommended for the maintenance of cognitive abilities. Intervention studies based on cognitive training, however, have generally failed to show broad, transferrable benefits, albeit individuals show improvement on the specific task trained. More complex interventions have begun to produce promising results.Tablet PCs offer a method of delivering multimodal interventions to older adults beyond repetitive cognitive training regimes. The project will develop and pilot a supported intervention programme utilising tablet PCs, a “Tablet for Healthy Ageing”, and will specifically assess the protocol’s acceptability and usability.


Research activity codes: 6.6 PSYCHOLOGICAL AND BEHAVIOURAL;6.8 COMPLEMENTARY
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH
Title: Understanding suicide clusters through exploring self harm behaviours
Funder: Division for Social Care and Health Research (Wales)

Abstract: Our understanding of the social and psychological determinants of suicide clusters is limited, with none of the cross-discipline theories proposed having been tested via in-depth research on an actual cluster. This research will explore the factors and mechanisms that trigger a suicide cluster, cause it to continue and then eventually subside. The study uses mixed methods. People from the Bridgend area who presented to the local emergency department (ED) with ‘ near fatal’ self-harm at the time of the apparent suicide cluster in 2007-8 will be interviewed to explore: (a) the social and psychological causes of self-harm during an apparent cluster and (b) how individuals understand their own behaviour. Questions will be asked in relation to social circumstances, family history, childhood development, drug and alcohol use, life events, size and character of primary support group, the media, links to other cases, identification with cluster cases and interviewees’ own thoughts about cluster initiation and propagation. Interviews will analysed thematically. Routinely available anonymised data on all those who presented during the cluster to the local ED with any mention of non-fatal self-harm will also be investigated. The study will help inform the development of appropriate policy to respond to suicide clusters at an early stage.


Research activity codes: 2.3 PSYCHOLOGICAL, SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC FACTORS
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH
Title: The efficacy of the virtual support world for young people who self harm and its use in ‘real’ world care: views of young self-harmers
Funder: Division for Social Care and Health Research (Wales)

Abstract: Many young people who self-harm suffer in silence, reluctant to turn to more formalised support services, although increasing numbers of young people are accessing support online (Whitlock et al. 2006). However the nature of this online support varies and some have expressed concern that this can exacerbate self-harming behaviour and potentially undermine the support given in more mainstream care or health contexts. With this in mind, this study seeks to answer the following research questions: 1. What do we currently know about self harm Internet support forums and what are the impacts of use of this medium on young people’s reported self-harming behaviour? 2. How do young people who self-harm perceive the support offered through the Internet, both that offered by professional care services and via sites set up by self-harmers? 3. Does support information gleaned from online sources complement or challenge care delivered in more traditional settings? 4. To what extent do young people disclose their Internet use to professionals involved in their formal care? 5. To what extent could the Internet play a role in the services aimed at children and young people who self-harm and what would be the most appropriate form?


Research activity codes: 7.1 INDIVIDUAL CARE NEEDS
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH
Title: There's an App for that': Examining variation between in vivo and retrospective reports of alcohol consumption
Funder: Alcohol Research UK

Abstract: The significance of self-reports in alcohol research means it is important to scrutinize the conditions which impact their accuracy. Recent years have shown a marked increase in the use of mobile technology in this field, however, to date this technology has not been used to examine the extent to which contextual factors impact self-reported alcohol behaviours. Building on previous investigations, the proposed research will therefore design and test the feasibility of Smartphone technology which measures alcohol consumption in de facto real time. To date, the alcohol research community has been overly reliant on retrospective self-report measures to date. By introducing novel cost effective ways of measuring alcohol consumption and assessing the validity of such approaches, the proposed research will constitute a first step into developing methods which are capable of assessing real-time consumption and casting light on the validity of more traditional retrospective reports.


Research activity codes: 1.4 METHODOLOGIES AND MEASUREMENTS
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH
Title: Effects of Varenicline on alcohol enjoyment and consumption
Funder: Alcohol Research UK

Abstract: Pharmacotherapies for alcohol dependence have only modest efficacy. Varenicline is a medication with a well-established track-record for smoking cessation. Several studies, primarily of heavy-drinking smokers, suggested that it may also reduce alcohol consumption and enjoyment, but most sample sizes were small and analyses did not control for the potential effects of tobacco abstinence. This is a proposal to compare the effects of varenicline, relative to nicotine replacement treatment, on alcohol enjoyment and consumption in 600 smokers who attended the Royal London Hospital Smokers’ Clinic. Whilst the Clinic has been collecting data on alcohol use since 2009, staff do not have capacity to code and analyse the forms The funding we seek would enable us to enter and analyse the data to rapidly generate new clinically relevant knowledge about the potential of varenicline as a treatment for alcohol dependence. We have completed and published several such projects successfully in the past.


Research activity codes: 6.1 PHARMACEUTICALS
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH
Title: Contributing to Mental Health Literacy: a pilot study to develop vignettes to examine what the UK general population understands alcohol misuse to be
Funder: Alcohol Research UK

Abstract: A pilot study contributing to an investigation of knowledge of alcohol misuse in the UK, using qualitative analysis of focus groups representative of the general public, and news media coverage to inform the development of tools to explore this knowledge.


Research activity codes: 1.2 PSYCHOLOGICAL AND SOCIOECONOMIC PROCESSES
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH
Title: Cognitive processes in the maintenance and treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder and social phobia
Funder: Wellcome Trust

Abstract: This application is for funds to continue a long-term, Trust-funded programme of research on anxiety disorders and their treatment. The proposed studies build on the applicant's success in using a cognitive science approach to improve the understanding of posttraumatic stress disorder and social phobia and to develop effective psychological treatments for these disorders. The aims are: 1) To enhance the efficiency of the treatments in order to make them more widely available; 2) To identify the mechanisms of therapeutic change inorder to test the theories on which the treatments are based and to facilitate refinement of the interventions; and 3) To identify individuals who are at high risk of developing posttraumatic stress disorder after a traumatic event so they can be targeted in future prevention programmes. An integrated programme of treatment development studies, two randomized controlled trials, treatment mechanism studies and a prospective longitudinal study is proposed to achieve these aims. The overall strategy of using a single team to simultaneously investigate two anxiety disorders has provided added scientific value in the applicants' current programme grant.


Research activity codes: 6.6 PSYCHOLOGICAL AND BEHAVIOURAL;2.3 PSYCHOLOGICAL, SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC FACTORS
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH