bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Cross‐cultural Study of Alcohol Dependence in Singapore
Authors: HEOK KUA EE
Published: January 2006

This is a comparative study of alcohol dependence in Chinese and Indian patients admitted to a hospital in Singapore. There were 46 patients‐21 Chinese and 35 Indians. In both ethnic groups there was a preponderance of male over female patients. There was no significant difference in the mean ages of the two groups but Indian patients started drinking at an earlier age and more of them had a family history of alcohol problems. Comparing the severity of alcohol dependence, Indian patients scored higher on the SADQ but no patients scored above 30 points.
Thoughts on the Sheffield Non‐prescribing Programme for Narcotic Users
Authors: LIAPPAS J. A. , JENNER F. A. , VLISSIDES D. N. , VICENTE B.
Published: January 2006

The attitudes of professional workers, of drug addicts and ex‐addicts in Sheffield to a city‐wide non‐prescribing policy is reported. In addition, opinions on related subjects are expressed with some details of the users. Professional workers strongly support the programme but drug users, and even successfully treated ex‐users, question our justification of limiting people's rights to take drugs. However, the police and probation services feel we have stimulated those same people to take more positive approaches to their problems, and no great increase in crime or deaths or medical problems have followed the changes we have made.
Measuring Onset of ‘Caseness’ in Studies of Stressful Life Events and Alcohol Abuse
Authors: GORMAN D. M.
Published: January 2006

The selection of criteria to operationalize concepts in empirical research is not an arbitrary process. Rather, it must be guided by the nature of the hypotheses being tested. Failure to do this will render the hypotheses themselves absurd. These points are discussed in relation to the particular demands of testing hypotheses concerning the relationship between life events and ‘onset’ of alcohol abuse. It is argued that the alcohol dependence syndrome provides the most valid set of criteria for operationalizing the latter concept.
Age, Alcohol Consumption and the Experiencing of Negative Consequences of Drinking in Four Scandinavian Countries1
Authors: HAUGE RAGNAR , IRGENS‐JENSEN OLAV
Published: January 2006

Based on data from a comparative survey of drinking in four Scandinavian countries (Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden), use of alcohol and negative consequences of drinking were studied in relation W age. Clear differences were found between age‐groups as regards experiencing such negative consequences in respect of both men and women. These differences were to a large extent a reflection of similar differences between the age‐groups in regard to alcohol consumption and intoxication frequency. However, it was also found that when both alcohol consumption and intoxication frequency were maintained at a constant level, age in itself seemed to influence the experiencing of negative consequences. The study also indicates that in all age‐groups there are national differences in drinking patterns and thus in the experiencing of negative consequences of drinking which do not reflect the national differences in total alcohol consumption.
A Comparison of Inpatient Management of Drug Dependence in 1979 and 1984
Authors: LONDON M. , GHODSE A. H.
Published: January 2006

The number of patients admitted to an inpatient drug‐dependence treatment unit rose from 82 in 1979 to 198 in 1984, while those with two or more admissions in the index year fell from 55% to 35%. Opiate detoxification accounted for 60% of admissions in 1984, hut only 12% in 1979. Barbiturate detoxification, social crises and self‐destructive behaviours accounted for significantly more admissions in 1979, and the 1979 patients were also found to be more unstable on other variables. The increased rate of drug addiction in the general population, as shown by Home Office statistics, had influenced the pattern of admissions. The role of the unit had been transformed from one of crisis intervention, support and stabilization to one with greater emphasis on abstinence and cure.
Alcohol, Drugs and Traffic Safety
Authors: FERRARA SANTO DAVIDE
Published: January 2006

This paper reviews existing empirical evidence on the possible influence of a wide range of psychotropic substances on driving ability. Substances which are considered include alcohol; antidepressants; sedatives and hypnotics; stimulants; opiates; cannabis; anaesthetics. Data are much richer in some of these areas than others. Different research approaches are outlined. Legislative, medico‐legal and prevention aspects are briefly noted.
Brittle Diabetes in a Drug and Alcohol Abuser
Authors: MACE C. J.
Published: January 2006

A 29 year old male patient is described having a history of multiple drug and alcohol abuse, insulin dependent diabetes with exceptionally severe hypoglycemic episodes, and memory impairment. Observations during an in‐patient admission suggested excessive self‐administration of insulin was compounding a confusing clinical picture. This combination of conditions appears to be unique in clinical literature, to which reference is made in discussion of some possible pathogeneses for the patient's hypoglycemic attacks and memory difficulty.
The Drug Dependence Syndrome and Related Disabilities
Authors: HASIN DEBORAH S. , GRANT BRIDGET F. , HARFORD THOMAS C. , ENDICOTT JEAN
Published: January 2006

While the dependence syndrome has been extensively studied in alcohol patients, much less information is available about this syndrome in drugs other than alcohol. Since the core symptoms of the dependence syndrome have been defined as comprising a dimension of disability distinct from social, health and other consequences of substance abuse, we examined the relationships of dependence syndrome symptoms and related problems for drugs. We included cannabis, stimulants, barbiturates, tranquilizers, cocaine, opiates and hallucinogens in our analyses. Results showed high clustering of dependence symptoms with each other and with health, social and emotional problems attributed to drug use. This supports the syndrome concept for the core dependence symptoms, but not the concept that the symptoms form distinct dimensions from associated problems.
Drug Consumption Among University Students in Spain
Authors: QUEIPO D. , ALVAREZ F. J. , VELASCO A.
Published: January 2006

Drug consumption in 1984 among 2921 students of nine faculties in the University of Valladolid (Spain) is reported. Cannabis was the most frequently consumed drug, followed by non‐medical consumption of amphetamines and tranquillizers. Drug consumption tends to be more frequent among males, among students who share a flat with friends and among those in disagreement with their parental upbringing. Most students start the consumption of different drugs between the ages of 17 and 20 years. ‘Curiosity’, ‘search for pleasure and happiness’ and ‘new sensations’ were the principal reasons for drug consumption, except for amphetamines and tranquillizers which were principally consumed as a ‘study aid’.
Per Capita Alcohol Sales, Heavy Drinker Prevalence and Alcohol Problems in Iowa for 1958‐1985
Authors: MULFORD H. A. , FITZGERALD J. L.
Published: January 2006

A series of drinking practices surveys spanning an extended period of uninterrupted alcohol sales growth in Iowa revealed that while per capita alcohol sales were doubling, and the prevalence of drinkers increased 27%, heavy drinker prevalence failed to increase, and a majority of seven survey indicators of problem drinking trended up. The findings have implications for the integrity of the distribution of consumption prevention model.
Effects of Information on the Opiate Withdrawal Syndrome
Authors: GREEN LYNETTE , GOSSOP MICHAEL
Published: January 2006

This study investigates the effect of information about withdrawal upon the subsequent withdrawal syndrome experienced by opiate addicts. Thirty addicts admitted to an inpatient treatment programme were randomly assigned to two groups. The ‘informed’ group was given full information about the withdrawal programme and the type and intensity of symptoms they might expect. The other, ‘uninformed’ groups received a general interview dealing with routine ward issues. All subjects were asked to complete the Opiate Withdrawal Scale during and subsequent to the detoxification procedure for a period up to 50 days. The informed group reported a significantly lower peak withdrawal score and lower levels of withdrawal symptomatology during the post‐methadone phase of treatment. In addition, the informed group were more likely to complete the methadone withdrawal programme. The implications of these results are discussed. In particular it is pointed out that this comparatively straightforward and low‐cost procedure can have considerable clinical benefits.
Book Reviews
Authors: GOSSOP MICHAEL
Published: January 2006

Books Reviewed in this Article:

Effective Outpatient Treatment for Alcohol Abusers and Drinking Drivers JOHN S. CRANDELL

Alcoolismo Hoje SERGIO PAULA RAMOS

Finnish Drinking Habits: results from interview surveys held in 1968, 1976 and 1984 JUSSI SIMPURA (Ed.)

Moderation as a Goal or Outcome of Treatment for Alcohol Problems. A dialogue MARK B. SOBELL & LINDA C. SOBELL (Eds)

Drugs and Aging WILLIAM A. McKIM & BRIAN L. MISHARA

A Land Fit for Heroin? Drug Policies, Prevention and Practice NICHOLAS DORN & NIGEL SOUTH (Eds)

Northern Road: a study of developing services for drug misusers JACKIE POWELL & ROBIN LOVELOCK
Research on Children of Alcoholics: past and future
Authors: WOODSIDE MIGS
Published: January 2006

There are 28.6 million children of alcoholics in the United States; one out of every eight Americans. Many of them suffer negative physical, mental and emotional consequences as a result of parental alcoholism. Research investigations of their health status, cognitive abilities and adaptive behaviors confirm these problems although notable impediments to research efforts presently exist. Among the fruitful areas for future study are investigations which explore levels of vulnerability and risk factors for children of alcoholics in combination with genetic and psychosocial factors. Other recommendations for study as well as the major activities of the Children of Alcoholics Foundation to promote and disseminate research findings and new data are described.
Predicting Alcoholism and Personality Disorder in a 33‐year Longitudinal Study of Children of Alcoholics
Authors: DRAKE ROBERT E. , VAILLANT GEORGE E.
Published: January 2006

The authors examine adolescent adjustments and the antecedents of DSM‐III alcoholism and DSM‐III personality disorder in a 33‐year longitudinal study of inner‐city, non‐delinquent sons of alcoholic men (COA's). In early adolescence, the 174 COA's (38% of the sample) had more alcoholic relatives (in addition to fathers), more non‐Mediterranean ethnicity, more environmental stresses, and poorer adjustments than their non‐COA peers. Poor adolescent adjustment among COA's was associated with having a poor relationship with one's mother. By midlife, 28% of the COA's had developed alcohol dependence, and 25% were diagnosed with at least one personality disorder. Personality disorder but not alcoholism had strong continuities with adolescent adjustment problems. Alcohol dependence was predicted by total number of alcoholic relatives, non‐Mediterranean ethnicity, low SES, and school behavior problems. Personality disorder was predicted by total environmental weaknesses, poor maternal relationships, low IQ, and feelings of inadequacy.
Deliberate Family Process: a strategy for protecting children of alcoholics
Authors: BENNETT LINDA A. , WOLIN STEVEN J. , REISS DAVID
Published: January 2006

The authors aim to identify family environment factors that significantly decrease the risk to offspring of alcoholics to become alcoholics or to evidence other kinds of problems in childhood. This paper reports the results of a study regarding the impact of family ritual formation on the behavioral, cognitive, and emotional functioning of school‐aged children of alcoholics, in comparison with children from a matched sample of families with non‐alcoholic parents. Taking a family process perspective, the study demonstrates that those children growing up in alcoholic families which deliberately plan and execute family rituals, valued relationships, and preferred roles are less likely to evidence behavior or emotional problems. It is argued that families with serious problems, such as parental alcoholism, which can still impose control over those parts of family life that are central to the family's identity, communicate important messages to their children regarding their ability to take control of present and future life events. These messages, in turn, can play an important role in the extent to which the offspring are protected from developing problems in childhood, as well as alcoholism in adolescence and adulthood.
A Comparison of the Home and Social Environments of Children of Alcoholic and Non‐alcoholic Parents
Authors: REICH WENDY , EARLS FELTON , POWELL JACK
Published: January 2006

The home environments of 32 children of alcoholic parents and 22 children with neither parent alcoholic are compared. The home environments of the children of alcoholics show diminished global functioning. In particular they are characterized by marital conflict, parent‐child conflict, poor adaptive functioning on the part of the parents and in some cases by physical abuse. Out of the 32 children with alcoholic parents, a majority of the children received 1 or more DSM‐III diagnoses. A comparison of the home environments of the children of alcoholics with and without psychiatric diagnoses shows that the homes of the ‘disturbed’ children are characterized by a greater exposure to the effects of parental drinking, more parent‐child conflict and less parent‐child interaction than the homes of children who received no diagnoses.
Cognitive Functioning in Children from Alcoholic and Non‐alcoholic Families
Authors: JOHNSON JEANNETTE L. , ROLF JON E.
Published: January 2006

Cognitive, academic, and behavioral problems have been reported to occur among school‐aged children of alcoholics. Many of these reports have obtained data from very mixed samples of high risk subjects. The present study focused instead on a homogeneous non‐disadvantaged sample of 50 male and female children of recovering alcoholics and compared them to 48 male and female children of non‐alcoholics using a test battery assessing cognitive functioning. Included were measures of intelligence and academic performance as well as parental ratings and self ratings of perceived cognitive competence. Statistically significant differences between these two groups on Verbal, Performance, and Pull Scale IQ were not found. Similarly, there were no significant differences in academic performance. However, there were significant differences in mother's perceptions and self‐perceptions of cognitive competence. The pattern of results suggest evidence that cognitive functioning problems in non‐disadvantaged children of alcoholics are subtle and perhaps less influential with regard to academic problems than maternal performance expectations and self perceptions of cognitive competence.
Economic cost of Alcohol‐related Health Care in New Zealand: an interpretive comment
Authors: WOODFIELD ALAN
Published: January 2006

Two recent studies estimating the economic cost of alcohol‐related health care in New Zealand are critically assessed. It is suggested that some estimates are based on unscientific methods, and that estimated costs substantially over‐emphasize the net impact of alcohol abuse on properly‐defined net expenditures of the health system. To the extent that they are comprehensive, even the overstated estimated health costs appear to fall far short of indirect tax revenue extracted from alcohol users, including non‐abusers.
Buprenorphine Abuse Among Opiate Addicts
Authors: O'CONNOR JOHN J. , MOLONEY EAMONN , TRAVERS RAYMOND , CAMPBELL AISLING
Published: January 2006

Buprenorphine has been described as a potent analgesic with low abuse potential. Sporadic reports in the world literature would seem to contradict this view. A retrospective study of all opiate addicts first presenting over a 12‐month period showed an increasing level of buprenorphine abuse. The implications of these findings are discussed
The Outcome of Outpatient Withdrawal from Alcohol
Authors: WEBB MARCUS , UNWIN ANTONY
Published: January 2006

A sample of 50 male military veterans, many of whom were heavily alcohol dependent, was studied in an outpatient withdrawal programme. Fifty‐four per cent of the sample completed outpatient withdrawal, 22% were admitted to inpatient care and 24% dropped out from care. The ‘admitted’ group was distinguishable by a later age of onset of drinking and by higher dependence scores (SADQ) than the other two groups, and by higher daily cigarette consumption than the ‘completed’ group. Predictive factors for the group which dropped out from care could not be identified, though there was a trend for these patients to be younger, and none of them presented with a serious physical disorder. Four risk factors, including SADQ score, were selected which had some predictive value for admission to inpatient care.
Alcoholism, Anxiety and Depression
Authors: SCHUCKIT MARC A. , MONTEIRO MARISTELA G.
Published: January 2006

This paper discusses diagnostic and treatment approaches for dealing with patients who present with two or more psychiatric disorders. We emphasize the relationship between depressive and anxiety syndromes on one hand, and alcohol abuse on the other. Some reasons for diagnostic confusion are noted, such as the need to distinguish between drinking and alcoholism, sadness and depression, and anxiety feelings and major anxiety disorders. Because symptoms of sadness or anxiety and excessive drinking frequently overlap, a working hierarchy must be established–the approach suggested here is the determination of the primary disorder based on the chronology of development of symptoms. The authors point out some clinical guidelines for use in evaluating patients with primary alcohol abuse and secondary anxiety or depression. Using the data from the literature as well as clinical experience, it is concluded that alcoholism, major affective disorder and major anxiety disorder are distinct illnesses with different prognoses and treatments. Some implications for clinical practice are discussed.
Television Advertisements for Alcoholic Drinks Do Reinforce Under‐age Drinking
Authors: AITKEN P. P. , EADIE D. R. , LEATHAR D. S. , MCNEILL R. E. J. , SCOTT A. C.
Published: January 2006

Individual interviews were conducted with 433 Glasgow children aged between 10 and 17. The findings were consistent with previous research in indicating that children are much more aware and appreciative of alcohol advertising than adults realize. They were particularly appreciative of television commercials for mass‐produced lagers. This is consistent with previous research in indicating that commercials for alcoholic drinks aimed at older teenagers and young adults present qualities that younger teenagers find attractive. There were consistent and important differences between under‐age drinkers and non‐drinkers. Under‐age drinkers were more adept at recognising and identifying brand imagery in alcohol commercials. This suggests they tend to pay more attention to alcohol commercials. Under‐age drinkers also tended to be more appreciative of television advertisements for alcoholic drinks. This suggests they get more pleasure out of alcohol commercials. In other words, television alcohol commercials are reinforcing under‐age drinking.
Follow‐up of Heroin Addicts in Spain (EMETYST Project): results 1 year after treatment admission
Authors: SÁANCHEZ‐CARBONELL JAVIER , CAMI JORDI , BRIGOS BLANCA
Published: January 2006

The EMETYST (Estudio Multicéntrico de Evaluación de Tratamientos y Seguimiento de Toxicómanos) project describes demographic characteristics and history of drug abuse in a sample of 311 heroin addicts, who began treatment for addiction between the months of March and July 1985 in 16 different outpatient drug‐free clinics in Spain. The outcome of these patients was studied prospectively at 6 and 12 months after the onset of treatment. Drug use, psychological status, occupational status, and legal status were the main areas of interest. At 12 months, 51% of patients had discontinued heroin use (p < 0.01). Ten per cent of patients remained on treatment for 1 year of more. As previously reported in other studies, treatment decreased heroin use and improved psychological status. Predictive factors of the patient's status at 12 months were duration of therapy, pretreatment criminal history, and results obtained at 6‐month follow‐up.
Drug Taking, Crime and the Illicit Supply System
Authors: BEAN PHILIP T. , WILKINSON CHRISTINE K.
Published: January 2006

The links between drug taking and crime are examined in terms of three main questions: to what extent does drug use lead to crime, to what extent does crime lead to drug use, and to what extent does crime and drug use emerge from a common set of circumstances? The results give little to support the two propositions but much to support the third if it is defined in terms of the drug users position on and contact with the illicit supply system. Data is presented to show that the drug users relationship to that illicit supply system account for much current crime.
Alcohol in Pregnancy: patterns and association with socio‐economic, psychological and behavioural factors
Authors: HELLER J. , ANDERSON H. R. , BLAND J. M. , BROOKE O. G. , PEACOCK J. L. , STEWART C. M.
Published: January 2006

This study investigated alcohol consumption during pregnancy and its relationships with socio‐economic, psychological and behavioural factors in 1463 women. Information about alcohol consumption in the preceding 7 days was obtained by structured interview at booking, 28 and 36 weeks gestation. The prevalence of current drinking was about 50% at each interview. Combining the three interviews, the cumulative prevalence of drinking was 71%. Six per cent reported drinking l00g/wk or more at at least one interview, a level of consumption which has been reported to be associated with adverse foetal outcome. Higher proportions of drinkers than non‐drinkers were married, better educated, of higher social class and financial status. These factors were also associated with higher levels of consumption amongst those who drank. There was little evidence of an association between drinking and psychiatric state. Smoking was not associated with drinking status but was strongly related to the amount drunk by drinkers. Cluster analysis of heavier drinkers indicated the presence of a small sub‐group of socially disadvantaged women. These findings carry implications for both prevention and perinatal epidemiology.
Clinical Utility of Rapid Clonidine‐naltrcxone Detoxification for Opioid Abusers
Authors: VINING EUGENIA , KOSTEN THOMAS R. , KLEBER HERBERT D.
Published: January 2006

Clonidine hydrochloride (an alpha‐2 adrenergic agonist) and naltrexone hydrochloride (an opioid antagonist), given in combination, provide a safe and effective treatment of abrupt opioid withdrawal over 4 or 5 days in an outpatient/day setting. Following a naloxone challenge test to verify and quantify opioid dependence, 14 of 17 (82%) heroin users successfully withdrew from opioids and attained maintenance levels of naltrexone. Eight of 9 (89%) successfully completed the 4‐day study in which naltrexone therapy was begun on day I. Three to 5 days of clonidine hydrochloride treatment with a peak mean dose of 0.6 mg/day on day 2 for the patients in the S‐day study, and 0.5 mg on days 1 and 2 for patients in the 4‐day study, attenuated the withdrawal inducing effects of naltrexone. Both groups received naltrexone in single morning doses which were rapidly increased from 12.5 mg on the first day of naltrexone therapy to SO mg on the third day. Clonidine significantly decreased blood pressure in both groups without producing clinical problems. This study has improved the availability of the clonidine‐naltrexone combination by developing a single dose per day naltrexone regimen with naltrexone doses generally available to any opioid treatment facility.
Changing Trends in Drug Use: an initial follow‐up of a local heroin using community
Authors: FRASER ANDREW , GEORGE MICHAEL
Published: January 2006

A cohort of 101 heroin users and suppliers involved in a local community network were monitored over an 18 month period by staff at two community drug treatment agencies. The relative impact of police action and therapeutic intervention on this network is detailed and discussed. Few (7%) were still known to be using exclusively heroin after this time with many moving their dependency to other drugs, including alcohol, alone or in combination.

Analysis of events suggests that the disruption of the social centre which had come to be associated with the use and supply of drugs has had a major effect on the dissolution of the heroin network equal in importance to the apprehension of larger dealers or the expansion of treatment services.
The Effect of Introducing a New Light Beer in Norway: substitution or addition?
Authors: SKOG OLE‐JØRGEN
Published: January 2006

In this paper the question is raised if total alcohol consumption may be reduced by introducing new alcoholic beverages with low alcohol content. May such beverages substitute stronger ones, or will they be added to existing habits? It is argued that this issue deserves more attention in the future. The effects of introducing a new light beer in Norway are analysed from this perspective. The point estimates indicate a substitution, but the effect is not statistically significant.
Types of Male Alcohol‐ and Drug‐abusing Incareerated Offenders
Authors: HODGINS DAVID C. , LIGHTFOOT LYNN O.
Published: January 2006

To provide a parsimonious description of prisoners with alcohol and drug use histories, a clustering algorithm was applied to a set of treatment‐relevant psychosocial variables obtained from a survey of 269 male incarcerated Canadian offenders. A stable five group solution was uncovered. The groups are differentiated mainly in terms of the seriousness of their alcohol and drug problems but each group has its own particular constellation of other features: one group was relatively problem‐free; one abused drugs other than alcohol and seemed to be leading a generally criminal lifestyle; the third group abused only alcohol and was more socially stable; and the final two groups abused both alcohol and other drugs differing in that one reported needing more emotional assistance and the other showing signs of organic deficits.
Consequences of Increasing Off‐premise Wine Outlets in Iowa
Authors: MULFORD H. A. , FITZGERALD J. L.
Published: January 2006

Before/after survey data and beverage alcohol sales records were used to investigate the effect that increasing the number of off‐premise wine outlets in Iowa might have had on the consumption and purchase of wine, beer and distilled spirits, and also the effect on heavy drinker and problem drinker rates. Monthly wine sales surged immediately following the increase in outlets, and the prevalence of self‐reported wine purchasers was significantly higher when measured some 9 months later. However, the number of self‐reported wine drinkers, per capita consumption and per capita purchases were virtually unchanged. Consistent with this evidence of stable consumption, monthly wine sales soon declined again to levels commensurate with those prevailing prior to the increase in outlet numbers. The self‐reported consumption and the sale of both spirits and beer were unaffected by the wine outlet increase. Also the self‐reported total alcohol consumption was unchanged as were heavy drinker and problem drinker rates. Neither the sales nor survey data supported the Distribution of Consumption Prevention Model prediction that the increased wine availability would produce a significant and lasting increase in wine consumption, and in the prevalence of heavy drinkers and problem drinkers.
The Evaluation of a ‘Co‐operative Counselling’ Alcohol Service Which Uses Family and Affected Others to Reach and Influence Problem Drinkers
Authors: YATES F. E.
Published: January 2006

A previous study of normal drinking by the author found that problems experienced by other people's drinking were more commonly reported than worry about a personal drink problem. A new counselling service was set up to test the practical application of these findings to manage drink problems in the community. The aim was to use ‘affected others’ as agents to reach the person at an early stage in their drink problem. Natural preventive strategies were explored and applied to reduce drinking. This experimental ‘Co‐operative Counselling Service’ was tested over 6 months and I5 cases received extended help. Only three of the 15 problem drinkers associated with these cases had been treated for their drinking before. Of the 10 cases for which 3 month outcomes were available, five were reported to have reduced their drinking. Eight case studies are presented to indicate the nature of the client work.
Singapore: a study of university students' drinking behaviour
Authors: ISRALOWITZ RICHARD , HONG ONG TECK
Published: January 2006

This is a study of drinking behaviour among 1160 college students in Singapore. There were 767 Chinese, 127 Malay and 185 Indian students in the randomly selected sample. The Engs & Hanson questionnaire was used for researching the students' alcohol behaviour patterns and attitudes. Findings show very few of the students use alcohol on a regular basis or exhibit negative behaviour associated with its use. When data were compared with findings from the United States and Israel, Singapore students show a dramatically lower rate of alcohol‐related problem behaviour than their counterparts from the other countries.
What Children Know About Alcohol and How They Know it
Authors: CASSWELL S. , GILMORE L. L. , SILVA P. , BRASCH P.
Published: January 2006

In an interview study New Zealand children aged 8 and 9 years revealed clear concepts, mostly negative, about alcohol. Most of the children associated drinking alcohol with getting drunk, and few were unable to describe any effects of alcohol or what being drunk meant. Television was a source of information for 37% of the sample, parents or siblings for 26%; 21% had witnessed the effects they described. More than half the sample said they did not know their friends' feelings about alcohol use. When television was a communication source, especially if health promotion advertisements had been seen, drink‐driving dangers were more likely to be described. Children judged aware of alcohol problems in their immediate environment who had witnessed the effects they described mentioned vomiting and silliness as alcohol effects more often than others.
The Sex Industry, Alcohol and Illicit Drugs: implications for the spread of HIV infection
Authors: PLANT MOIRA L. , PLANT MARTIN A. , PECK DAVID F. , SETTERS JO
Published: January 2006

A review is presented of the association between the sex industry and the use and misuse of alcohol and illicit drugs. It is concluded that both the latter are associated with “high risk“ sexual activities and that heavy drinking and illicit drug use are commonplace amongst prostitutes and their clients. Outside Africa evidence suggests that in some, though by no means all, areas prostitutes have low or zero levels of HIV seropositivity. It is concluded that far more information is needed on the patterns of AIDS‐related knowledge, beliefs, attitudes and behaviours amongst male and female prostitutes and their clients. Vigorous policies are needed to increase levels of knowledge about AIDS risks amongst prostitutes and their clients and to foster the adoption of 'safer sex’practices.
Success and Failure at Inpatient Heroin Detoxification
Authors: SAN LUIS , CAMÍ JORDI , PERI JOSÉ M. , MATA ROSA , PORTA MIQUEL
Published: January 2006

Predictors of either detoxification success or failure were evaluated during an inpatient trial that compared the efficacy of methadone, clonidine and guanfacine for rapid heroin detoxification. The analysis of such predictors was stimulated by the fact that in order to achieve 90 patients who completed the study (30 in each group), a total of 170 patients had to be included. Of 80 detoxification failures, 10 occurred in the methadone group, 32 in the guanfacine group, and 38 in the clonidine group. Voluntary request for discontinuation of the detoxification schedule was the first cause of failure. There were not statistically significant differences with regard to sociodemographic characteristics and pattern of drug consumption among patients in the three groups who completed detoxification with success or failure. The treatment drug, the type of schedule and the score obtained from the Symptom Checklist‐90/Revised (SCL‐90/R) were the only predictors of either detoxification success or failure. Inpatient opioid detoxification would be a useful strategy for patients with more severe psychological symptoms.
Ethanol, Acetaldehyde and Cardiac Protein Synthesis: the relation to cardiomyopathy
Authors: SCHREIBER SIDNEY S.
Published: January 2006

The occurrence of cardiomyopathy in chronic alcoholism has been well documented, but the cause of the myopathy is still unclear. Some of the mechanisms described have included accumulation of triglycerides, altered fatty acid extraction1,2, membrane alterations with decreased response to Ca2+ and to catecholamines 3,4 and alterations in cardiac protein synthesis.5 The present article briefly reviews the effects of ethanol or its primary metabolite, acetaldehyde, on cardiac protein synthesis and possible relation to cardiomyopathy.
The Diet of Steady Drinkers with Special Reference to Social Variables
Authors: Price JOHN , Kerr RAY , WILLIAMS GAIL
Published: January 2006

The influence of a number of variables on the diets of 65 steady drinkers from alcohol rehabilitation units on Merseyside, United Kingdom was investigated. All drank principally beer or spirits. Social variables studied included age, sex, living alone or with others, employment status and socio‐economic status. Alcohol‐related variables included quantity consumed and preferred beverage. Dietary outcome was assessed in terms of the variety of foods and the number of meals eaten per week. Living alone proved by far the most important determinant of reduced diet. Spirit drinkers ate more meals than beer drinkers, but only if living with others. Increased alcohol consumption related modestly to fewer foods and meals being consumed. Drinkers living alone constitute a much larger proportion of those entering rehabilitation programmes in Queensland, Australia than in the United Kingdom. The present findings may help to explain the high incidence in Queensland of thiamin deficiency syndromes including the Wernicke‐Korsakoff syndrome.
Undergraduate Training in Substance Abuse in the United Kingdom
Authors: GLASS ILANA B.
Published: January 2006

During 1987 thirteen departments in each of 28 medical schools were surveyed about the training their undergraduate medical students received in substance abuse. There was a 70% response rate, and of the departments that responded, 54% provided formal teaching (lectures, seminars, symposia), on average 14 hours over the 5 year training. Forty‐three per cent of the major clinical specialities provided clinical exposure to addiction problems, but only 21% of clinical and non‐clinical departments ensured that students were examined on the topic

There is a need to focus teaching in addiction behaviour either by co‐ordinated effort over all departments, or by integration within departments. It is pressing to review and revise the medical curriculum because of the escalation of substance abuse, the need for resources, the pivotal role of the medical profession and the relation of drug abuse to the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.

The development of a‘core’curriculum which demarcates key topics, and which encompasses and links pre‐clinical and clinical training in addiction behaviour would be valuable.
Health Authority Policies for the Prevention of Alcohol Problems
Authors: ANDERSON PETER
Published: January 2006

Although national policy has a major influence in preventing alcohol problems, much can be done at a local level. In addition national policy can either be made or at least influenced from the local level, and local communities are well placed to change attitudes and influence key processes, thus creating a climate for appropriate national debates and policy developments. This paper addresses why a local policy is needed for the prevention of alcohol problems, and then considers a number of the components of such a policy, how such a policy might be implemented, and how such a policy might be evaluated.
Decreases in Alcohol Problems and Increased Alcoholics Anonymous Membership
Authors: SMART REGINALD G. , MANN ROBERT E. , ANGLIN LISE
Published: January 2006

In this study, the impact of changes in rates of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) membership and per capita consumption of alcohol on changes in rates of cirrhosis, drinking‐driving charges and liquor act charges are examined for the 10 provinces of Canada over the period 1974–1983. Neither measure was significantly related to changes in cirrhosis rates. However, AA membership and consumption changes were associated, in an interactive manner, with changes in drinking‐driving and liquor act charges.
The Comparability of Solicited Versus Clinic Subjects in Alcohol Treatment Research
Authors: PEARLMAN SHELDON , ZWEBEN ALLEN , LI SELINA
Published: January 2006

The increasing use of media advertisements to recruit subjects in alcohol treatment research has raised concerns about the comparability of such solicited subjects and subjects drawn from more traditional clinic populations. This paper, based on a study that involved both solicited and clinic subjects, identifies differences between the two types of subjects in terms of sociodemographic variables; pre‐treatment drinking and marital adjustment; several dimensions of ‘self‐definition’ and three outcome measures. These findings suggest that there may be significant differences between solicited and clinic subjects and that these differences should be taken into account in the design of studies utilizing solicited subjects in order to determine the generalizability of the results.
Managing Drug Use
Authors: WHYNES DAVID K. , BEAN PHILIP T. , GIGGS JOHN A. , WILKINSON CHRISTINE
Published: January 2006

This study of Class A drug users in Nottingham identifies a local drug economy with specific demand and supply characteristics. With reference to demand, data are presented on users’purchasing power and purchasing behaviour, including drug re‐sales and the use of credit. Crude elasticity relationships are discussed. The analysis of the supply side includes an examination of the dealing system and pricing methods. Following the integration of these two themes by way of summary the paper concludes with a discussion of the implication of its findings for public policy aimed at managing drug use.
Commercial Butane Abuse: a disturbing case
Authors: MATHEW B. , KAPP ELINOR , JONES T. RYLAND
Published: January 2006

The case report discusses a 16‐year‐old girl with a history of commercial butane gas abuse over a year. As the patient had collected the empty cannisters, it was possible to calculate the quantity abused which is not usually possible due to lack of co‐operation and lack of evidence. Other aspects discussed are the mode of inhalation, accessibility, and psychological consequences.
Alcohol, Tobacco and Public Policy: the contribution of economics
Authors: HARTLEY KEITH
Published: January 2006

This article shows the contribution of economics to debates about prevention policy. The arguments used by various pressure groups favouring or opposing more effective prevention policies need to be subject to critical scrutiny and empirical testing. The market failure case for state intervention in alcohol and tobacco markets is assessed and an alternative public choice approach is outlined. The supply side of the market in the form of the alcohol and tobacco industries is analysed using a structure‐performance framework. Consideration is given to how firms might respond to prevention policies through, say, lobbying or shifting higher taxes to suppliers or by diversifying into new markets.
Health Benefits of Increases in Alcohol and Cigarette Taxes
Authors: GROSSMAN MICHAEL
Published: January 2006

Excise taxes on alcohol and cigarettes imposed by the Federal government of the United States have been very stable since 1951. This paper summarizes research that shows that increased taxation, which results in higher prices, would discourage alcohol abuse and cigarette smoking. One striking finding is that a policy to raise the Federal excise tax on beer in line with the rate of inflation over the last three decades would cut motor vehicle fatalities of 18 to 20 year olds, many of which are alcohol‐related, by about 15%, saving more than 1,000 lives per year. A second is that over 800,000 premature deaths in the cohort of Americans 12 years and older in 1984 would be averted if the Federal excise tax on cigarettes were restored to its real value in 1951.
An Economist in ‘Alcohol Policy Country’
Authors: VAN IWAARDEN M. J.
Published: January 2006

The use of alcohol in the Netherlands more than tripled between 1960 and 1980. As a consequence also alcohol abuse increased substantially and caused problems for the drinker, the family and for society as a whole. These problems resulted in higher costs of the health care, the police and judicial system, and the labour force. The central aim of Dutch alcohol control policy is to prevent the health and social risks which result from alcohol consumption. More education, efficient treatment and new legislation are the main policy instruments. What can economics contribute in this respect? What is the perspective for prevention during the next decade?
The Influence of Advertising on Tobacco Consumption: a reply to Jackson & Ekelund
Authors: HARRISON ROBIN , CHETWYND JANE , BRODIE RODERICK J.
Published: January 2006

This paper re‐examines the model for quarterly cigarette consumption presented earlier (Chetwynd et al., 1988) in the light of criticisms by Jackson & Ekelund of a number of possible deficiencies in the econometric procedures employed. A thorough interrogation of the model has been pursued using a comprehensive battery of econometric testing procedures which go beyond those suggested by Jackson & Ekelund. The model is found to perform well against all of these tests and the original conclusions drawn from the model are sustained, including the significant impact of advertising on aggregate cigarette consumption.
There is No Convincing Evidence for a Relationship Between Cigarette Advertising and Consumption
Authors: BODDEWYN J. J.
Published: January 2006

A recent New Zealand study can be challenged on the grounds of inadequate theorization, questionable modelling and operationalization, and the ignoring of contradictory data. Therefore, its public‐policy implications in terms of curbing or banning tobacco promotion are highly dubious.
Psychological Profile of Social Drinkers
Authors: ROBSON PHILIP
Published: January 2006

In a cross‐sectional study, the psychological profile of light social drinkers was compared with that of heavy social drinkers and alcohol‐dependent patients who showed no evidence of clinical depression. The selection of psychological tests was based on the hypothesis that alcohol abuse and depression may sometimes be different expressions of the same disorder, and that the relationship between the two disorders may in pan be explicable in terms of shared psychological vulnerability factors. The tyests chosen were those thought most likely to predict vulnerability to depression. Dependent patients demonstrated significantly greater distortion of cognitive style than heavy social drinkers, who in turn rated significantly higher than light drinkers. Heavy social drinkers occupied a middle ground with regard to psychological profile between light drinkers and ‘alcoholics’, sharing some attributes with each. Possible implication for interventions by general practitioners are discussed.
Alcoholism Among Outpatients of a Rural District General Hospital in Kenya
Authors: NIELSEN M. F. J. , RESNICK C. A. , ACUDA S. W.
Published: January 2006

This article presents the results of a study of alcoholism among outpatients of a rural district hospital in Kenya. One hundred and twelve outpatients aged 18 years or over attending Kisii District Hospital were interviewed using the alcohol section of the Diagnostic Instrument Schedule (DIS). The participants consisted of 56 males and 56 females. Of these, 54% of the males and 25% of the females met the DIS criteria for alcohol abuse and/or alcoholism. Those classified as alcoholics differed significantly from the non‐alcoholics on variables associated with sex, age, past marital state, religion and types of alcoholic drinks consumed. No significant differences were found with respect to present marital state, education, occupation, family size, age of first intoxication or physical illness.
Alcohol Research at the Hjellestad Clinic
Authors: LABERG JON CHRISTIAN , FAUSKE SVERRE , LØBERG TOR
Published: January 2006

Treatment and research efforts at the Hjellestad Clinic are based on a biobehavioural model of the addictions. The treatment program encompasses life‐style changes and relapse prevention, and extensive assessment for the purpose of the treatment choices. The clinic is treating nearly 1500 patients a year. Psychological and medical research projects have included experimental drinking studies, psychopharmacological and biomedical studies, treatment evaluations, studies of neuropsychological assessment, studies of personality subtypes, studies of violence related to alcohol and drugs, and investigations of women alcoholics. A new research laboratory houses an experimental bar, and state‐of‐the‐art facilities for psychophysiological and neuropsychological testing. The Hjellestad Clinic is the only Norwegian centre for clinical and experimental research on the addictions from a psycho‐physiological as well as behavioral and cognitive perspective. In addition, a national educational program offers theoretical and practical training for professionals and paraprofessionals in the addictions in co‐operation with the University of Bergen. Training in the addictions and internships for psychology students at the University of Bergen is provided at the Clinic. The centre has established connections with centres in Scandinavia, England, Canada and the U.S., through visiting scholars and study trips. (The centre has an especially strong liaison with the Rutgers Center of Alcohol Studies.)