bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Marine subsurface eukaryotes: the fungal majority
Authors: Edgcomb Virginia P. , Beaudoin David , Gast Rebecca , Biddle Jennifer F. , Teske Andreas
Published: August 2010

Studies on the microbial communities of deep subsurface sediments have indicated the presence of Bacteria and Archaea throughout the sediment column. Microbial eukaryotes could also be present in deep‐sea subsurface sediments; either bacterivorous protists or eukaryotes capable of assimilating buried organic carbon. DNA‐ and RNA‐based clone library analyses are used here to examine the microbial eukaryotic diversity and identify the potentially active members in deep‐sea sediment cores of the Peru Margin and the Peru Trench. We compared surface communities with those much deeper in the same cores, and compared cores from different sites. Fungal sequences were most often recovered from both DNA‐ and RNA‐based clone libraries, with variable overall abundances of different sequence types and different dominant clone types in the RNA‐based and the DNA‐based libraries. Surficial sediment communities were different from each other and from the deep subsurface samples. Some fungal sequences represented potentially novel organisms as well as ones with a cosmopolitan distribution in terrestrial, fresh and salt water environments. Our results indicate that fungi are the most consistently detected eukaryotes in the marine sedimentary subsurface; further, some species may be specifically adapted to the deep subsurface and may play important roles in the utilization and recycling of nutrients.
FUNCTIONAL STUDIES OF THE URETER: ITS BEHAVIOUR IN THE DOMESTIC PIG (SUS SCROFA DOMESTICA) AS RECORDED BY THE TECHNIQUE OF TRENDELENBURG
Authors: Deane R. Fletcher
Published: August 2010

1. The ureter of the domestic pig was examined histologically. The muscle coat does not have two distinct layers: probably there is a spiral arrangement of a single muscle coat.

2. Even with specialised stains there was no sign of a plexus of nerve fibres and cells as in the niyenteric plexus of the gut: nerve fibres were seen only in the adventitia.

3. The ureter of the pig lends itself to study in vitroin Trendelenburg's apparatus.

4. Acetylcholine has a powerful motor action easily abolished by atropine.

5. Noradrenaline and adrenaline are also powerfully motor in action. In the presence of phenoxybenzamine this motor effect is abolished and replaced by inhibition.

6. lsoprenaline is inhibitor and this inhibition is abolished by pronethalol.

7. There seem therefore to be α and β adrenergic receptors in ureter.

8. In the discussion there is speculation about the significance of such findings for an explanation of vesico‐ureteric reflux in man.
NNEOPLASIA OF THE BLADDER AND CYSTITIS CYSTICA
Authors: Salm R.
Published: August 2010

Three uncommon bladder lesions are reported. The first case showed early malignancy arising from multicentric follicular, cystic, and glandular cystitis. The second case showed a field change of similar proliferative changes, carcinoma in situ, early alveolar and polypoidal carcinomas. The multicentric alveolar carcinoma appeared to have arisen from Brunn's nests. The third case represented what is believed to be the first recorded example of a true adenoma of the bladder, composed of epithelial elements identical to those seen in follicular and cystic cystitis. Hence all three lesions support the thesis that, in the bladder as elsewhere, hyperplasia may lead to neoplasia.
Automation in an addiction treatment research clinic: Computerised contingency management, ecological momentary assessment and a protocol workflow system
Authors: VAHABZADEH MASSOUD , LIN JIA‐LING , MEZGHANNI MUSTAPHA , EPSTEIN DAVID H. , PRESTON KENZIE L.
Published: August 2010

Introduction and Aims.A challenge in treatment research is the necessity of adhering to protocol and regulatory strictures while maintaining flexibility to meet patients' treatment needs and to accommodate variations among protocols. Another challenge is the acquisition of large amounts of data in an occasionally hectic environment, along with the provision of seamless methods for exporting, mining and querying the data.Design and Methods.We have automated several major functions of our outpatient treatment research clinic for studies in drug abuse and dependence. Here we describe three such specialised applications: the Automated Contingency Management (ACM) system for the delivery of behavioural interventions, the transactional electronic diary (TED) system for the management of behavioural assessments and the Protocol Workflow System (PWS) for computerised workflow automation and guidance of each participant's daily clinic activities. These modules are integrated into our larger information system to enable data sharing in real time among authorised staff.Results.ACM and the TED have each permitted us to conduct research that was not previously possible. In addition, the time to data analysis at the end of each study is substantially shorter. With the implementation of the PWS, we have been able to manage a research clinic with an 80 patient capacity, having an annual average of 18 000 patient visits and 7300 urine collections with a research staff of five. Finally, automated data management has considerably enhanced our ability to monitor and summarise participant safety data for research oversight.Discussion and Conclusions.When developed in consultation with end users, automation in treatment research clinics can enable more efficient operations, better communication among staff and expansions in research methods. [Vahabzadeh M, Lin J‐L, Mezghanni M, Epstein DH, Preston KL. Automation in an addiction treatment research clinic: Computerised contingency management, ecological momentary assessment and a protocol workflow system.Drug Alcohol Rev2009;28:3–11]
They fight because we let them! Applying a situational crime prevention model to barroom violence
Authors: GRAHAM KATHRYN
Published: August 2010

This paper draws on situational crime prevention and social interactionist theories to develop a theoretical model for preventing aggression and injury in licensed drinking establishments. The model includes six components: (i) the presence of willing participants; (ii) the role of guardians, handlers and place managers; (iii) environmental deterrents of aggression; (iv) environmental precipitators of aggression; (v) theories regarding the effects of alcohol that contribute to increased risk of aggression; and (vi) social interaction theory relevant to the process of aggressive incidents in drinking establishments. The model provides a basis for developing a range of strategies to reduce barroom aggression that includes but is not restricted to addressing the role of alcohol. The paper discusses how these strategies can be developed and implemented through interventions, programs, policies or regulations at the level of the drinking establishment, the community level or the state/national level.[Graham K. They fight because we let them! Applying a situational crime prevention model to barroom violence. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009;28:103–109]
Is socioeconomic status in early life associated with drug use? A systematic review of the evidence
Authors: DANIEL JAMES Z. , HICKMAN MATTHEW , MACLEOD JOHN , WILES NICOLA , LINGFORD‐HUGHES ANNE , FARRELL MICHAEL , ARAYA RICARDO , SKAPINAKIS PETROS , HAYNES JON , LEWIS GLYN
Published: August 2010

Aim.
To conduct a systematic review of longitudinal studies that examined the association between childhood socioeconomic status (SES) and illegal drug use in later life. Design and Methods. Systematic search with an agreed list of search items was used to identify all longitudinal population‐based studies that examined the association between childhood SES and later drug use. These included MEDLINE (1966–2005), EMBASE (1990–2005), CINAHL (1982–2005) and PsychInfo (1806–2005), and specialist databases of the Lindesmith Library, Drugscope and Addiction Abstracts. Foreign‐language papers were included. Abstracts were screened independently by two reviewers. If there was disagreement to accept or reject the abstract, then a third reviewer acted as arbiter. Data were extracted by one of the authors. Results. Eleven relevant papers were identified (two birth cohorts and nine papers on school‐aged cohorts). There was consistent evidence to support an association between lower childhood SES and later drug use, primarily cannabis use. However, few studies examined cannabis dependence, and studies of more problematic forms of drug use gave contradictory results. Discussion and Conclusions. We found consistent, though weak, evidence to support the assumption that childhood disadvantage is associated with later cannabis use. Further research is needed to clarify this issue and to inform future policies and public health messages. [Daniel JZ, Hickman M, MacLeod J, Wiles N, Lingford‐Hughes A, Farrell M, Araya R, Skapinakis P, Haynes J, Lewis G. Is socioeconomic status in early life associated with drug use? A systematic review of the evidence. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009;28:142–153]
Onset and lifetime use of drugs in New Zealand: Results from Te Rau Hinengaro: The New Zealand Mental Health Survey 2003–2004
Authors: WELLS JESSIE ELISABETH , McGEE MAGNUS A. , BAXTER JOANNE , AGNEW FRANCIS , KOKAUA JESSE ,   FOR THE NEW ZEALAND MENTAL HEALTH SURVEY RESEARCH TEAM
Published: August 2010

Introduction and Aims. Onset and lifetime use of drugs have not previously been reported for all adult ages in New Zealand. This paper reports such results and, for people born in New Zealand, compares age of onset across ethnic groups. Design and Methods. A nationally representative cross‐sectional survey was carried out in 2003–2004, with oversampling of Māori and Pacific people. Participants were aged 16 years or more, living in permanent private dwellings. In the Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI 3.0), participants were asked if they had ever used drugs (alcohol, tobacco and five groups of other drugs) and the age of first use (except for tobacco). Estimates are weighted. Results. The response rate of 73.3% yielded 12 992 interviews. The percentage of participants who had ever used drugs was: 94.6% for alcohol, 50.8% for tobacco and 42.6% for any extramedical drug, including 41.6% for cannabis, 4.2% for cocaine and 2.9% for opioids. Use was much more common in recent cohorts for extramedical drugs. The median age of onset in each age cohort was always lowest for alcohol, then cannabis, then opioids, then cocaine. Among those born in New Zealand, Māori were more at risk of use than ‘Others’ with the lowest risk for Pacific people. Discussion and Conclusions. Interventions to prevent or to delay the onset of drug use need to occur before and during adolescence. The major cohort differences and the widespread experience of cannabis use help to explain the diversity of opinion in New Zealand about how to deal with this drug.[Wells JE, McGee MA, Baxter J, Agnew F, Kokaua J for the New Zealand Mental Health Survey Research Team. Onset and lifetime use of drugs in New Zealand: Results from Te Rau Hinengaro: The New Zealand Mental Health Survey 2003–2004. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009;28:166–174]
Estimating alcohol‐attributable mortality among Indigenous Australians: Towards Indigenous‐specific alcohol aetiologic fractions
Authors: PASCAL RICHARD , CHIKRITZHS TANYA , GRAY DENNIS
Published: August 2010

Introduction and Aims. Past estimates of Indigenous alcohol‐attributable health in Australia have been based on drinking prevalence estimates from the general population, rather than prevalence figures from the Indigenous population. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the efficacy of using Indigenous‐specific drinking prevalence to estimate alcohol‐attributable deaths among Indigenous Australians. Design and Methods. Estimates of Indigenous alcohol‐attributable deaths between 2000 and 2004 were obtained using both (i) national general‐population drinking prevalence estimates and (ii) national Indigenous‐specific drinking prevalence. Estimates were calculated using the ‘aetiologic fraction’ method. Results. By using national general‐population drinking prevalence figures, past reports on Indigenous health have underestimated alcohol‐attributable deaths for the national Indigenous population. Female deaths due to alcohol‐attributable haemorrhagic stroke were estimated to be approximately four times higher and alcohol‐attributable suicides among men were estimated to be 30% higher than was previously held, when Indigenous‐specific drinking prevalence figures were used. Discussion and Conclusions. By substituting Indigenous‐specific alcohol consumption prevalence estimates for general‐population drinking prevalence, the accuracy of estimates of alcohol‐related harm among Indigenous Australians can be significantly improved.[Pascal R, Chikritzhs T, Gray D. Estimating alcohol‐attributable mortality among Indigenous Australians: Towards Indigenous‐specific alcohol aetiologic fractions. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009;28:196–200]
Hepatitis C treatment in pharmacotherapy services: Increasing treatment uptake needs a critical view
Authors: TRELOAR CARLA J. , FRASER SUZANNE M.
Published: August 2010

Issues. In an effort to increase the number of people undergoing hepatitis C treatment, a range of initiatives are planned or underway to provide treatment in non‐specialist services, such as opioid pharmacotherapy treatment (OPT) clinics. Approach. This commentary considers the implications of this new approach to treatment delivery, taking account of individual‐level issues generally discussed in the literature, such as knowledge of treatment and concerns about side effects. In addition, because less visible organisational and structural factors would equally influence the successful implementation of hepatitis C treatment in OPT services, these are also explored. Key Findings. Provision of hepatitis C treatment in OPT services raises a broad range of pressing questions, from individual knowledge and concern about treatment, to workforce issues, such as discrimination, and tensions between the need for supportive care during hepatitis C treatment and the surveillant, regulatory nature of OPT clinic operations. Implications. A thorough critical examination of the structure and delivery of all services involved is necessary. Social research can play a unique role in this assessment because of its ability to generate detailed insights into lived experience and make use of social theories that allow previously invisible operations of power to become visible. Conclusion. The success of hepatitis C treatment in new sectors, such as OPT clinics, is not a given. Close attention needs to be paid to the context and culture in which OPT is delivered. In turn, this needs to be considered alongside the context and culture necessary for successful hepatitis C treatment delivery.[Treloar CJ, Fraser SM. Hepatitis C treatment in pharmacotherapy services: Increasing treatment uptake needs a critical view. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009;28:436–440]
Predictors of young adults' amphetamine use and disorders: A prospective study
Authors: HAYATBAKHSH MOHAMMAD R. , NAJMAN JAKE M. , BOR WILLIAM , WILLIAMS GAIL M.
Published: August 2010

Introduction and Aims. Understanding the risk factors that predict amphetamine use and development of amphetamine abuse or dependence (disorder) may help guide preventive interventions. This study aimed to investigate the correlates and predictors of young adults’ amphetamine use and use disorders. Design and Methods. Prospective cohort, population‐based study which started in Brisbane, South East Queensland (Australia) in 1981. The study participants were a cohort of 2042 young adults, followed up from birth to young adulthood. At the 21‐year follow‐up, amphetamine use was assessed via a self‐report questionnaire, and amphetamine use disorder (AUD) was assessed using the Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI‐Auto). Potential predictors (15 risk factors) were assessed between baseline (antenatal visit) and the 21‐year follow‐up. These included participant's gender, mother's age and education, maternal marital status and quality of marital relationship, maternal tobacco and alcohol consumption, mother‐child communication, child mental health and problem behaviours, child smoking and alcohol consumption and child school performance. Results. Young adult amphetamine users were more likely to have concurrent symptoms of mental illness and problem behaviours and to use or abuse cigarettes, cannabis, or other illicit drugs. In multivariate analyses, young adults’ amphetamine use and disorder were disproportionately more common among males and those who have prospectively reported aggression/delinquency or smoking at 14 years, or who have experienced childhood sexual abuse. Conclusions. Our findings suggest that problem behaviours, smoking and childhood sexual abuse are predictors of initiation to use of amphetamines and development of amphetamine abuse and dependence.[Hayatbakhsh MR, Najman JM, Bor W, Williams GM. Predictors of young adults' amphetamine use and disorders: A prospective study. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009]
Evaluation of a training program to improve clinicians' assessment of patient stability
Authors: WINSTOCK ADAM R. , LEA TOBY
Published: August 2010

Introduction and Aims. Public clinics in New South Wales (NSW), Australia play a central role in inducting and stabilising opioid dependent clients onto treatment before transfer to a community pharmacy. Clinical assessment of stability is a vital skill in ensuring that clients are appropriately and effectively transferred. A two‐hour clinical training program was delivered to staff at 31 public clinics, that aimed to improve staff confidence in assessing client stability, and skills in negotiating the transfer of clients to community pharmacies. Design and Methods. Pre‐ and post‐training evaluation was conducted examining self‐ratings of confidence and ability in the assessment of client stability, and the perceived utility of a clinical algorithm to improve assessments. Follow‐up was conducted 3 to 6 months post‐training assessing individual and clinic level changes in clinical practice. Results. 205 staff completed pre‐ and post‐training questionnaires. Staff demonstrated a moderate level of self‐reported baseline knowledge and skills in assessing client stability (mean = 6.5; 1 = poor; 10 = excellent) that improved when re‐assessed following the training (mean = 8.0). 76 staff responded to the follow‐up questionnaire. ≥ 75% reported some level of improvement in their approach to clinical practice regarding stability assessment, and 59% reported being more effective in identifying clients appropriate for community pharmacy transfer. Of 19 public clinics, 14 reported an increased focus on stability assessment. Nine clinics reported barriers to achieving changes in clinical practice. Discussion and Conclusions. This evaluation demonstrates that it is possible to implement a targeted clinical training package to staff that translates into positive changes in clinical practice.[Winstock AR, Lea T. Evaluation of a training program to improve clinicians' assessment of patient stability. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009;28:353–359]
Linked electronic medication systems in community pharmacies for preventing pseudoephedrine diversion: A review of international practice and analysis of results in Australia
Authors: BERBATIS CONSTANTINE G. , SUNDERLAND VIVIAN BRUCE , DHALIWAL SATVINDER S.
Published: August 2010

Introduction and Aims. Pseudoephedrine is a precursor often diverted into the illegal manufacture of amphetamine type substances (ATS). The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a linked electronic medication recording system (LEMS) established in Australian pharmacies in 2005 for preventing the diversion of pseudoephedrine. Design and Methods. The number of illegal ATS laboratories detected in each jurisdiction of Australia from 1996–1997 to 2004–2005 were analysed by linear regression nationally and by each jurisdiction. The statistical significance of seizures in 2005–2006 was based on the comparison of the observed value to the 95% prediction confidence intervals calculated from the historical data for each jurisdiction and nationally. Results. Pharmacies in Queensland commenced an LEMS in late 2005 to minimise retail pseudoephedrine diversion. The number of ATS laboratories seized in 2005–2006 in Queensland was significantly lower (P < 0.05) than predicted by historical data. For all other jurisdictions and nationally the totals of laboratories seized in 2005–2006 were not significantly different from predicted values. Discussion and Conclusions. The significant decline in ATS illegal laboratories seized in Queensland in 2005–2006 suggests the effective use of LEMS in pharmacies to minimise pseudoephedrine diversion. In order to evaluate a national LEMS, more frequent data on numbers of linked pharmacies, ATS laboratories seized and indicators of pseudoephedrine sales and misuse are required. Testing the use of LEMS by pharmacies for preventing the diversion of other medicines seems appropriate.[Berbatis CG, Sunderland VB, Dhaliwal SS. Linked electronic medication systems in community pharmacies for preventing pseudoephedrine diversion: A review of international practice and analysis of results in Australia. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009]
A healthy dose of scepticism: Four good reasons to think again about protective effects of alcohol on coronary heart disease
Authors: CHIKRITZHS TANYA , FILLMORE KAYE , STOCKWELL TIM
Published: August 2010

Issues. Alcohol has been implicated in both the popular press and scientific literature as having a protective effect for at least a dozen conditions including coronary heart disease (CHD). Approach. Epidemiological evidence for an apparent protective effect of alcohol on CHD is now being challenged on a number of fronts. This paper is a synopsis of those various challenges as they currently stand. Key Findings. The argument that systematic misclassification of ex‐drinkers and occasional drinkers to ‘abstainer’ categories among epidemiological studies might explain apparent protective effects of moderate alcohol consumption on CHD has recently been supported by new meta‐analyses and independent research. The influence of uncontrolled or unknown factors on the relationship between alcohol and disease cannot be ruled out. Exclusion of participants on the basis of ill‐health severely reduces study sample size and new analyses suggest that doing so might artificially create the appearance of protective effects. The ability of respondents to accurately recall their own alcohol consumption is in serious doubt and very few individuals maintain one single drinking level or style throughout life. The relationship between alcohol and some conditions might be a function of drinking patterns but few studies have addressed the issue. Implications. Popular perceptions regarding the strength of evidence for alcohol's protective effect on a growing number of conditions might be misguided. Conclusion. It is time for the wider research, health and medical community to seriously reflect on the quality of current evidence for apparent protective effects of alcohol on human disease.[Chikritzhs T, Fillmore K, Stockwell T. A healthy dose of scepticism: Four good reasons to think again about protective effects of alcohol on coronary heart disease. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009;28:441–444]
Client‐reported reasons for non‐engagement in drug and alcohol treatment
Authors: COULSON CAROLYN , NG FELICITY , GEERTSEMA MARJAN , DODD SEETAL , BERK MICHAEL
Published: August 2010

Introduction and Aims. To examine client‐reported reasons for missed early appointments at a drug and alcohol treatment service and to compare characteristics of those who missed appointments with those who attended. Design and Methods. Clients who missed a first or second appointment between 1 May and 31 August 2007 at a public community‐based outpatient treatment facility were invited to participate in a semistructured telephone interview. This consisted of an open‐ended question asking the reason(s) for nonattendance, followed by a questionnaire of items for therapeutic alliance and service satisfaction, perceived impact of substance use and previous treatment experience, mostly rated on Likert scales. Database information on demographic and clinical variables was gathered for all clients who were accepted for treatment within the study time frame. Characteristics of those who missed a first or second appointment (n = 66) were compared with those who attended at least their first two appointments (n = 97). Results. Of clients who missed their appointments, 80.6% provided reasons for nonattendance, which included extraneous factors (50.0%), service shortcomings (29.7%), no further need for service (16.2%) and motivational ambivalence (4.1%). They generally had high ratings of therapeutic alliance and service satisfaction and identified their substance use as having a negative impact on their lives. Clients who missed appointments were more likely to be male, unmarried and have a history of polysubstance use. Discussion and Conclusions. Extraneous issues relating to the client may be a dominant obstacle in early treatment engagement. Efforts to overcome these issues may therefore improve early engagement.[Coulson C, Ng F, Geertsema M, Dodd S, Berk M. Client‐reported reasons for non‐engagement in drug and alcohol treatment. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009;28:372–378]
Overdose deaths following previous non‐fatal heroin overdose: Record linkage of ambulance attendance and death registry data
Authors: STOOVÉ MARK A. , DIETZE PAUL M. , JOLLEY DAMIEN
Published: August 2010

Introduction and Aims. Experiencing previous non‐fatal overdoses have been identified as a predictor of subsequent non‐fatal overdoses; however, few studies have investigated the association between previous non‐fatal overdose experiences and overdose mortality. We examined overdose mortality among injecting drug users who had previously been attended by an ambulance for a non‐fatal heroin overdose. Design and Methods. Using a retrospective cohort design, we linked data on non‐fatal heroin overdose cases obtained from ambulance attendance records in Melbourne, Australia over a 5‐year period (2000–2005) with a national death register. Results. 4884 people who were attended by ambulance for a non‐fatal heroin overdose were identified. One hundred and sixty‐four overdose deaths occurred among this cohort, with an average overdose mortality rate of 1.20 per 100 person‐years (95% CI, 1.03–1.40). Mortality rate decreased 10‐fold after 2000 coinciding with widely reported declines in heroin availability. Being male, of older age (>35 years) and having been attended multiple times for previous non‐fatal overdoses were associated with increased mortality risk. Discussion and Conclusions. As the first to show a direct association between non‐fatal overdose and subsequent overdose mortality, this study has important implications for the prevention of overdose mortality. This study also shows the profound effect of macro‐level heroin market dynamics on overdose mortality.[Stoové MA, Dietze PM, Jolley D. Overdose deaths following previous non‐fatal heroin overdose: Record linkage of ambulance attendance and death registry data. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009;28:347–352]
The effectiveness of brief alcohol interventions in primary care settings: A systematic review
Authors: KANER EILEEN F. S. , DICKINSON HEATHER O. , BEYER FIONA , PIENAAR ELIZABETH , SCHLESINGER CARLA , CAMPBELL FIONA , SAUNDERS JOHN B. , BURNAND BERNARD , HEATHER NICK
Published: August 2010

Issues. Numerous studies have reported that brief interventions delivered in primary care are effective in reducing excessive drinking. However, much of this work has been criticised for being clinically unrepresentative. This review aimed to assess the effectiveness of brief interventions in primary care and determine if outcomes differ between efficacy and effectiveness trials. Approach. A pre‐specified search strategy was used to search all relevant electronic databases up to 2006. We also hand‐searched the reference lists of key articles and reviews. We included randomised controlled trials (RCT) involving patients in primary care who were not seeking alcohol treatment and who received brief intervention. Two authors independently abstracted data and assessed trial quality. Random effects meta‐analyses, subgroup and sensitivity analyses and meta‐regression were conducted. Key Findings. The primary meta‐analysis included 22 RCT and evaluated outcomes in over 5800 patients. At 1 year follow up, patients receiving brief intervention had a significant reduction in alcohol consumption compared with controls [mean difference: −38 g week−1, 95%CI (confidence interval): −54 to −23], although there was substantial heterogeneity between trials (I2 = 57%). Subgroup analysis confirmed the benefit of brief intervention in men but not in women. Extended intervention was associated with a non‐significantly increased reduction in alcohol consumption compared with brief intervention. There was no significant difference in effect sizes for efficacy and effectiveness trials. Conclusions. Brief interventions can reduce alcohol consumption in men, with benefit at a year after intervention, but they are unproven in women for whom there is insufficient research data. Longer counselling has little additional effect over brief intervention. The lack of differences in outcomes between efficacy and effectiveness trials suggests that the current literature is relevant to routine primary care. [Kaner EFS, Dickinson HO, Beyer F, Pienaar E, Schlesinger C, Campbell F, Saunders JB, Burnand B, Heather N. The effectiveness of brief alcohol interventions in primary care settings: A systematic review. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009;28:301–323]
Rates of alcohol consumption and risk status among Australian university students vary by assessment questions
Authors: UTPALA‐KUMAR RANJANI , DEANE FRANK P.
Published: August 2010

Introduction and Aims. Different self‐report methods tend to produce different estimates of alcohol consumption. The present study compares differences in rates and risk levels based on responses to a modified version of the Daily Drinking Questionnaire (m‐DDQ) and quantity‐frequency (QF) questions. Design and Methods. The sample comprised 2082 university students, 61% of whom were female and 39% male with a mean age of 23.5 years. An email containing an online link to a brief six‐question survey was emailed to students enrolled in participating faculties at the University of Wollongong, Australia. Current drinkers completed m‐DDQ and QF questions about alcohol consumption. Results. QF methods identified significantly lower estimates of consumption (Mean = 9.15, SD = 12.51) compared with m‐DDQ (Mean = 13.06, SD = 14.07). Allocation to risk categories based on the Australian Alcohol Guidelines were conducted for both the m‐DDQ and QF methods. Almost twice as many students were found to be drinking at levels considered risky using the m‐DDQ method compared with QF. In addition, the relative rank order of participants varied significantly between the two methods. Discussion and Conclusions. The m‐DDQ method identified higher rates of drinking and categorised almost twice as many individuals into risky categories of drinking compared with QF. Such variations have major implications for identification of risk groups in health promotion or prevention programs.[Utpala‐Kumar R, Deane FP. Rates of alcohol consumption and risk status among Australian university students vary by assessment questions. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009]
Surveillance of drug use among young people attending a music festival in Australia, 2005–2008
Authors: LIM MEGAN S. C. , HELLARD MARGARET E. , HOCKING JANE S. , SPELMAN TIM D. , AITKEN CAMPBELL K.
Published: August 2010

Introduction and Aims
. In order to monitor trends in illicit drug use among youth, surveillance of drug use behaviours among a variety of populations in different settings is required. We monitored drug use among music festival attendees. Design and Methods. Cross‐sectional studies of young people's reported drug use were performed at a music festival in Melbourne from 2005 to 2008. Self‐administered questionnaires collected information on drug use, demographics and other risk behaviour. Results. From 2005 to 2008, over 5000 questionnaires were completed by people aged 16–29; 2273 men and 3011 women. Overall, use of any illicit drug in the past month was reported by 44%. After adjusting for demographic and behavioural characteristics, the prevalence of recent illicit drug use decreased significantly from 46% in 2005 to 43% in 2008 (OR 0.92, 95% CI 0.87–0.97). After adjusting for age and sex the downwards trend was repeated for amphetamines and cannabis, but a significant increase in prevalence was observed in hallucinogen, ecstasy and inhalant use. Drug use was more common among men, older participants and those engaging in high‐risk sexual behaviour. Discussion and Conclusions. Illicit drug use was much more common in this sample than in the National Drug Strategy Household survey, but the direction of trends in drug use were similar; drug use prevalences were much lower than in the Ecstasy and Related Drugs Reporting System, the Illicit Drug Reporting System or National Needle and Syringe Program Survey. Music festival attendees are a potentially useful group for monitoring trends in illicit drug use. [Lim MSC, Hellard ME, Hocking JS, Spelman TD, Aitken CK. Surveillance of drug use among young people attending a music festival in Australia, 2005–2008. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009]
Difficulty accessing syringes and syringe borrowing among injection drug users in Bangkok, Thailand
Authors: KERR THOMAS , FAIRBAIRN NADIA , HAYASHI KANNA , SUWANNAWONG PAISAN , KAPLAN KARYN , ZHANG RUTH , WOOD EVAN
Published: August 2010

Introduction and Aims.
Thailand's longstanding HIV epidemic among injection drug users (IDU) has been attributed, in part, to the Thai government's unwillingness to implement evidence‐based HIV prevention interventions. This study was undertaken to examine risk factors for syringe borrowing among a community‐recruited sample of Thai IDU. Design and Methods. We examined the prevalence of syringe borrowing among 238 IDU participating in the Mit Sampan Community Research Project, Bangkok. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify independent predictors of syringe borrowing in the past 6 months. Results. A total of 238 IDU participated in this study; 66 (26.2%) were female, and the median age was 36.5 years. In total, 72 (30.3%) participants reported borrowing a used syringe in the past 6 months, with 47 (65.3%) of these individuals reporting multiple borrowing events. In multivariate analyses, syringe borrowing was positively associated with difficulty accessing syringes [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 2.46; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.08–5.60] and injecting with other people on a frequent basis (AOR = 3.17; 95% CI: 1.73–5.83). Primary reasons offered for experiencing difficulty accessing syringes included being too far from syringe outlets (34.1%), pharmacies being closed (13.6%) and being refused syringes at pharmacies (9.1%). Discussion and Conclusions. We observed an alarmingly high rate of syringe borrowing among a community‐recruited sample of Thai IDU. Various lines of evidence indicate that poor access to sterile syringes is driving the high rate of syringe borrowing observed in this study. Immediate action should be taken to increase access to sterile syringes among Thai IDU. [Kerr T, Fairbairn N, Hayashi K, Suwannawong P, Kaplan K, Zhang R, Wood E. Difficulty accessing syringes and syringe borrowing among injection drug users in Bangkok, Thailand. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009]
Ineligibility and refusal to participate in randomised trials of treatments for drug dependence
Authors: MELBERG HANS O. , HUMPHREYS KEITH
Published: August 2010

Issues. The aim of this study is to examine the extent to which drug‐dependent patients are ineligible for or unwilling to participate in randomised clinical trials. This is important because unrepresentative sample selection is a potentially important problem for randomised trials in the drug dependence field and little is known about the magnitude of the problem. Approach. A total of 98 clinical trials were drawn for analysis from a systematic review of the drug dependence treatment literature. Key Findings. The trials reviewed excluded an average of 29% of potential subjects as ineligible; a further 29% of the eligible subjects were unwilling to participate. Trials comparing widely different treatments had a higher proportion of ineligible and unwilling subjects than did studies comparing more similar treatments. Experiments with large samples enrolled a smaller proportion of patients from their sampling pool than did experiments with small samples. Implications. Drug‐dependent trial subjects are a minority of all drug patients seen in real‐world clinical practice. It is necessary to improve the reporting of these potential problems in randomised trials. Systematic reviews of the literature ought to use this information to distinguish reliable from less reliable findings. Conclusion. Unrepresentative sample selection is a serious problem for randomised trials in the drug dependence field.[Melberg HO, Humphreys K. Ineligibility and refusal to participate in randomised trials of treatments for drug dependence. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009]
Phytocannabinoids, CNS cells and development: A dead issue?
Authors: DOWNER ERIC J. , CAMPBELL VERONICA A.
Published: August 2010

Issues.Marijuana and hashish consist of at least 66 distinctive plant‐derived (phyto‐) cannabinoid compounds, with tetrahydrocannabinoids proving the most effective phytocannabinoid psychotropically. Despite the known pharmacological effects of phytocannabinoids, their role in controlling the cell survival/death decision in cells of the CNS continues to be unravelled.Approach.In this review, we examine the influence of phytocannabinoids on neural cell fate, with particular emphasis on how the time of marijuana exposure (neonatal vs. pubertal vs. adult) might influence the neurotoxic activities of phytocannabinoid compounds.Key Findings.Evidence in the literature indicates that exposure to phytocannabinoids during the prenatal period, in addition to the adolescent period, can alter the temporally ordered sequence of events that occur during neurotransmitter development, in addition to negatively impacting neural cell survival and maturation. Regarding the effect of marijuana consumption on brain composition in adults the evidence is contradictory.Implications.Exposure to marijuana during pregnancy might impact negatively on brain structure in the first years of postnatal life. Furthermore, early‐onset (before age 17) marijuana use might also have damaging effects on brain composition.Conclusion.The neonatal and immature CNS is more susceptible to phytocannabinoid damage. In the adult CNS the data are conflicting and the continued development of methods to assess whether marijuana consumption results in brain atrophy or morphometric changes will determine if structural changes are occurring. [Downer EJ, Campbell VA. Phytocannabinoids, CNS cells and development: A dead issue?Drug Alcohol Rev2009]
Promoting tobacco dependence treatment in nursing education
Authors: SARNA LINDA , BIALOUS STELLA A. , RICE VIRGINIA H. , WEWERS MARY ELLEN
Published: August 2010

Issues. There are 17.3 million nurses worldwide, the largest group of health‐care professionals, and they have great potential to address the epidemic of tobacco use and its related morbidity and mortality. However, the evidence indicates that the educational preparation of nurses for tobacco control remains inadequate. Approach. This paper provides an overview of the efficacy of nurses in the delivery of smoking cessation interventions, existing tobacco control content in nursing educational programs, model curricula, teaching resources and strategies for reducing barriers to curricular change. Key Findings. Despite the efficacy of nursing intervention for tobacco cessation, lack of appropriate knowledge and/or skill presents a major problem for implementation. An important factor fostering this lack of preparation is limited tobacco control content in current nursing educational programs. Barriers to enhancing and building this curricula include lack of preparation of educators, low priority for this content in an already overloaded curricula, negative attitudes, continued smoking by nursing students and/or faculty and lack of tested curricula. The availability of new tobacco control resources, including those specifically tailored for nurses can assist educators in teaching this content and nurses in implementing interventions. Implications. Research and changes in policy are needed to ensure that nursing education includes essential content on tobacco control. Conclusion. Nurses can be effective in delivering tobacco cessation interventions. Efforts are needed to promote curriculum that ensures that all nursing students and practicing nurses receive tobacco control content and are competent in the delivery of interventions; and to disseminate resources to nursing educators.[Sarna L, Bialous SA, Rice VH, Wewers ME. Promoting tobacco dependence treatment in nursing education. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009;28:507–516]
Evidence‐based practice or imperfect seduction? Developing capacity to respond effectively to drug‐related problems
Authors: ALLSOP STEVE J. , STEVENS CLARE F.
Published: August 2010

Issues. The last two or three decades have seen some valuable investment in workforce development. However, significant challenges remain in developing effective practice across various systems. Despite the relevance alcohol, tobacco and other drug use have for a range of staff across diverse organisations, adoption of cross‐sector and collaborative effective practice is not widespread. The most common response involves a rather singular focus on strategies that develop practitioner knowledge and skills, with much less consideration given to the complex nature of the work environment and the belief systems of people who work in these environments. Approach. This paper explores the barriers to and facilitators of effective practice, extending beyond the common focus on education and training initiatives. A model of capacity building is explored as a template to inform workforce and organisational development strategies. Key Findings. Numerous barriers, outside education and training, must be considered in order to develop and maintain effective practice across various systems of prevention and treatment. The paper culminates with recommendations on how to overcome such challenges. Implications. Workforce and organisational development must extend beyond education and training initiatives. Along with a focus on organisational and system factors, we must also attend to the marginalisation of people affected by drug use and associated pejorative attitudes. Conclusion. Developing effective practice in the drug field involves changing the structures, and expected outcomes of these structures, in which people work, not just encouraging a few to use new ways of working in spite of the system.[Allsop SJ, Stevens CF. Evidence‐based practice or imperfect seduction? Developing capacity to respond effectively to drug‐related problems. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009;28:541–549]
The acceptability of combined methadone‐naloxone treatment: Consumer and provider views on the potential utility of methadone‐naloxone
Authors: SHEARER JAMES , MAMMEN KRISTIE , BELL JAMES
Published: August 2010

Introduction and Aims. The aim of the study was to investigate the acceptability of methadone‐naloxone through interviews with potential consumers and treatment providers about their attitudes and beliefs about combining methadone with naloxone. Design and Methods. Qualitative study with structured surveys and individual interviews with nine consumers and 11 treatment providers. Results. Fear and issues around trust were identified as barriers to consumer acceptance of methadone‐naloxone. Respect for the choices that consumers made about their treatment and drug use, and clear and open communication were identified as necessary to win consumer acceptance. Both groups had concerns about the safety and efficacy of methadone‐naloxone compared with methadone, but also most identified potential benefits from a new opioid treatment option. Discussion and Conclusions. For both groups, the acceptability of methadone‐naloxone depended upon an informed assessment of risks and benefits best addressed by further research into the efficacy, tolerability and safety of methadone‐naloxone.[Shearer J, Mammen K, Bell J. The acceptability of combined methadone‐naloxone treatment: Consumer and provider views on the potential utility of methadone‐naloxone. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009]
Process evaluation of the implementation of a screening and brief intervention program for alcohol risk in primary health care: An experience in Brazil
Authors: AMARAL MICHAELA B. , RONZANI TELMO M. , SOUZA‐FORMIGONI MARIA LUCIA O.
Published: August 2010

Introduction and Aims.Screening and brief intervention (SBI) are considered good prevention strategies for alcohol‐related problems in Primary Health Care (PHC). The aim of this study was to evaluate the process of an SBI implementation program for alcohol risk use and evaluate the factors that facilitated or impeded this implementation, in two PHC settings at the Brazilian city of Juiz de Fora.Design and Methods.Case 1 public PHC services and case 2 the PHC service of the Military Police. Participants were trained on SBI strategies and supervised during 6 months. The qualitative methodology of action research was used. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.Results.Case 1: 70 participants; facilitating factors: good expectations about the project; simplicity of SBI technique; collaborative way the project was planned. Barriers: lack of time; discomfort in dealing with alcohol issues; focus on alcohol‐dependence; unstable political environment; other priorities; difficulties in patients' referral. Case 2: nine participants. Facilitating factors: simplicity of SBI technique; collaborative way the project was planned; importance of alcohol issues; data confidentiality and the voluntary work to do SBI. Barriers: only one health professional in the group; the variability of the institutional support; organisational culture about alcohol use.Discussion and Conclusions.The barriers and facilitators were related to two main factors: organisational culture and personal attitudes. The action research provided the opportunity to bridge the gap between research and practice, but it also showed that SBI faces significant challenges before it can be implemented as a routine procedure in PHC settings in Brazil. [Amaral MB, Ronzani TM, Souza‐Formigoni MLO. Process evaluation of the implementation of a screening and brief intervention program for alcohol risk in primary health care: An experience in Brazil.Drug Alcohol Rev2009]
A case of poppy tea dependence in an octogenarian lady
Authors: NANJAYYA SUBODH BHAGYALAKSHMI , MURTHY PRATIMA , CHAND PRABHAT KUMAR , KANDASWAMY ARUN , NIKKETHA BALA SHANTI , BENEGAL VIVEK , SHIVAPPA MADHUSUDHAN
Published: August 2010

While poppy seed and poppy tea dependence has been described, it is unusual to see such patients actively seek treatment in India. We report the case of an 82‐year‐old client with dependent use of poppy for 55 years. She was brought for treatment as access to poppy became difficult following legal restrictions. She was successfully maintained on buprenorphine maintainence.[Subodh BN, Murthy P, Chand PK, Arun K, Bala SN, Benegal V, Madhusudhan S. A case of poppy tea dependence in an octogenarian lady. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009]