bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Enhancing treatment access: Evaluation of an Australian Web‐based alcohol and drug counselling initiative
Authors: SWAN AMY J. , TYSSEN ERIC G. 
Published: August 2010

Abstract
Introduction and Aims. The provision of counselling and other health interventions over the Internet is an emerging treatment modality. In 2007, an evaluation of the first Australian pilot Web‐based alcohol and other drug (AOD) counselling initiative, known as CounsellingOnline, was completed. This paper explores whether CounsellingOnline enhanced AOD service accessibility for clients. Design and Methods. Service utilisation data (n = 2004) and client survey data (n = 277) were collected and analysed to evaluate service responses, service impact, client characteristics and client satisfaction. Comparative client data were obtained from a state‐wide conventional counselling dataset (Alcohol and Drug Information System; n = 19 283) and a statewide telephone counselling database (DirectLine; n = 59 863). Results. Service responses, such as fast counsellor connection speed, low client attrition and anonymous login, contributed to good service accessibility. CounsellingOnline clients differed from conventional and telephone counselling clients, representing much higher proportions of young, employed and female clients. Notably, the majority of CounsellingOnline sessions occurred outside standard business hours. Discussion and Conclusions. CounsellingOnline has showed enhanced AOD service accessibility through its service responsiveness, high level of after‐hours service utilisation, and appeal to a client group that differs from those seen in conventional and telephone AOD counselling services. The capacity of Web‐based services such as CounsellingOnline to enhance service accessibility is significant, particularly for clients whose access to conventional treatment services is limited.[Swan AJ, Tyssen EG. Enhancing treatment access: Evaluation of an Australian Web‐based alcohol and drug counselling initiative. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009;28:48–53]
Usage of an Internet smoking cessation resource: The Australian QuitCoach
Authors: BALMFORD JAMES , BORLAND RON , LI LIN , FERRETTER IAN 
Published: August 2010

AbstractIntroduction and Aims.The QuitCoach (http://www.quitcoach.org.au) is a tailored, Internet‐delivered smoking cessation advice program. This paper compares QuitCoach users both with smokers in general, and with callers to a telephone‐based smoking cessation service (the Victorian Quitline). It also explores patterns of QuitCoach usage by time of year and day of the week.Design and Methods.Data are from responses to the QuitCoach online assessment collected between 2003 and 2007 (n = 28 247). Comparison data are from the Victorian Quitline service, from the first five waves of the International Tobacco Control Four Country Survey, the 2004–05 National Health Survey, and from anti‐smoking Target Audience Rating Points for Australia.Results.QuitCoach users were more likely to be female and younger than both smokers in general and Quitline users. They were intermediate in nicotine dependence. QuitCoach users are less likely to have just quit than Quitline callers. Half of QuitCoach users first use after setting a quit date. Usage is related to anti‐smoking advertising and to day of week, being highest earlier in the week.Discussion and Conclusions.The QuitCoach successfully targets the moderately addicted. Use is sensitive to anti‐smoking campaigns. There is a need for greater promotion of the QuitCoach as a resource with the capacity to meet the needs of those already quit and those still uncertain as to whether to try.[Balmford J, Borland R, Li L, Ferretter I. Usage of an Internet smoking cessation resource: The Australian QuitCoach.Drug Alcohol Rev2009;28:66–72]
Mailed treatment to augment primary care for alcohol disorders: A randomised controlled trial
Authors: KAVANAGH DAVID , CONNOLLY JENNIFER M. 
Published: August 2010

Abstract
Introduction and Aims. Remote delivery of interventions is needed to address large numbers of people with alcohol use disorders who are spread over large areas. Previous correspondence trials typically examined its effects as stand‐alone treatment. This study aimed to test whether adding postal treatment to general practitioner (GP) support would lower alcohol use more than GP intervention alone. Design and Methods. A single‐blind, randomised controlled trial with a crossover design was conducted over 12 months on 204 people with alcohol use disorders. Participants in an immediate correspondence condition received treatment over the first 3 months; those receiving delayed treatment received it in months 3–6. Results. Few participants were referred from GPs, and little intervention was offered by them. At 3 months, 78% of participants remained in the study. Those in immediate treatment showed greater reductions in alcohol per week, drinking days, anxiety, depression and distress than those in the delayed condition. However, post‐treatment and follow‐up outcomes still showed elevated alcohol use, depression, anxiety and distress. Greater baseline anxiety predicted better alcohol outcomes, although more mental distress at baseline predicted dropout. Discussion and Conclusions. The study gave consistent results with those from previous research on correspondence treatments, and showed that high levels of participant engagement over 3 months can be obtained. Substantial reductions in alcohol use are seen, with indications that they are well maintained. However, many participants continue to show high‐risk alcohol use and psychological distress.[Kavanagh D, Connolly JM. Mailed treatment to augment primary care for alcohol disorders: A randomised controlled trial. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009;28:73–80]
A brief live interactive normative group intervention using wireless keypads to reduce drinking and alcohol consequences in college student athletes
Authors: LABRIE JOSEPH W. , HUMMER JUSTIN F. , HUCHTING KAREN K. , NEIGHBORS CLAYTON 
Published: August 2010

Abstract
Introduction and Aims. Misperceptions of how members of one's social group think and act influence behaviour. The current study was designed to extend the research of group‐specific normative feedback interventions among salient campus groups with heightened risk. Although not a randomised controlled trial, this research used normative feedback that was obtained using wireless keypad technology during a live session, within sex‐specific student athlete groups to extend the proof of concept of using this brief interactive intervention. Design and Methods. Participants included 660 intercollegiate athletes from all varsity athletic teams at two private, mid‐size universities. Intervention data were gathered in vivo using computerised handheld keypads into which group members entered in personal responses to a series of alcohol‐related questions. These questions assessed perceptions of normative group behaviour and attitudes as well as actual individual behaviour and attitudes. These data were then immediately presented back in graphical form to illustrate discrepancies between perceived and actual group norms. Results. Results revealed that at 1 month post‐intervention, perceived group norms, behaviour, attitudes and consequences reduced compared with baseline. These reductions were maintained at 2 month follow up. Latent growth modelling suggested that the reductions in perceived norms and attitudes were associated with reductions in individual drinking behaviour and negative consequences. Discussion and Conclusions. These results are among the first to suggest the effectiveness of a novel, group‐based normative alcohol intervention among student athletes. Limitations of the design preclude strong inferences about efficacy; however, the findings support further trialling of such information technology in alcohol treatment research.[LaBrie JW, Hummer JF, Huchting KK, Neighbors C. A brief live interactive normative group intervention using wireless keypads to reduce drinking and alcohol consequences in college student athletes. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009;28:40–47]
From illegal poison to legal medicine: A qualitative research in a heroin‐prescription trial in Spain*
Authors: ROMO NURIA , POO MÓNICA , BALLESTA ROSARIO ,   THE PEPSA TEAM
Published: August 2010

Abstract
Introduction and Aims. In recent decades, studies have been made of the possible benefits of treatments using heroin, although qualitative methodologies have not usually been employed. In 2004, in Granada (Spain), a clinical experiment was launched: the Experimental Narcotics Prescription Programme in Andalusia (PEPSA). This project attempted to evaluate the effectiveness of intravenous heroin and orally‐administered methadone prescription for long‐term socially‐excluded opiate addicts for whom other treatments have failed. The research described herein is qualitative and has been carried out within the framework of the aforementioned experiment. The objective was to discover the attitudes, opinions and experiences of patients (and relatives) once they had been included in the program and are receiving heroin in a therapeutic environment. Design and Methods. Focused ethnographic procedures were used to establish the study population. During the field work, we carried out in‐depth interviews and observations using 21 patients and relatives. Analysis was carried out by a team according to grounded theory. Results. Our results show how the treatment process and the administering of heroin in a therapeutic context manages to break the habit of consuming heroin obtained illegally, thus changing the significance given to the substance and bringing about improvements in aspects such as the workplace, family relations and physical and mental health. Discussion and Conclusions. The move from ‘substance addiction’ to chronic ‘illness’ upon beginning the treatment provides a chance for a population with a long history of rejection and exclusion to become part of society once again. [Romo N, Poo M, Ballesta R, the PEPSA team. From illegal poison to legal medicine: A qualitative research in a heroin‐prescription trial in Spain. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009]
Opinions of non‐pregnant New Zealand women aged 16–40 years about the safety of alcohol consumption during pregnancy
Authors: PARACKAL SHERLY M. , PARACKAL MATHEW K. , HARRAWAY JOHN A. , FERGUSON ELAINE L. 
Published: August 2010

Abstract
Introduction and Aims. Premenopausal women's opinions on the safety of alcohol consumption during pregnancy are not well documented. This study aims to assess the opinions of New Zealand women on the safety of alcohol consumption in pregnancy and the sociodemographic and lifestyle factors associated with these opinions. Design and Methods. A nationwide, cross‐sectional survey was conducted in 2005 on a random sample of 1109 non‐pregnant women aged 16–40 years. Data were collected via an interviewer‐administered questionnaire using a web‐assisted telephone interviewing system. Results. Overall, 44% (95% confidence interval 41–47) of women surveyed were of the opinion that no alcohol is safe in pregnancy. Those who stated that no alcohol is safe in pregnancy were more likely to be of Pacific Island ethnicity (P < 0.05) and abstainers (P < 0.001). Women who drank more than two standard drinks of alcohol on a typical occasion and/or who binged were more likely to be of the opinion that ‘more than one standard drink’ of alcohol is safe on a typical drinking day during pregnancy (P < 0.001). Discussion and Conclusions. The association of drinking style with opinions about the safety of alcohol consumption in pregnancy accentuates the need for public health education to reduce risky drinking behaviours in this population. Such efforts may also address the risk associated with many women unintentionally drinking in early pregnancy, especially if the pregnancy is unplanned.[Parackal SM, Parackal MK, Harraway JA, Ferguson EL. Opinions of non‐pregnant New Zealand women aged 16–40 years about the safety of alcohol consumption during pregnancy. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009]
The impact of more visible standard drink labelling on youth alcohol consumption: Helping young people drink (ir)responsibly?
Authors: JONES SANDRA C. , GREGORY PARRI 
Published: August 2010

Abstract
Introduction and Aims. In response to increasing concerns about excessive drinking among young people the Australian alcohol industry announced that it will introduce more visible standard drink labels. This study sought to examine whether young people use this information in a way that decreases, or increases, alcohol‐related harms. Design and Methods. Six focus groups with students enrolled in an undergraduate university course in a large regional city in New South Wales, recruited by direct approach on the university grounds and via an online message posted on the university bulletin board. Results: The majority of the participants reported that they are aware of the existence of standard drink labelling; notice standard drink labels; and take these into account when choosing what to purchase. However, this was predominantly to help them choose the strongest drinks for the lowest cost. Discussion and Conclusions. This study provides initial evidence to support the view that standard drink labelling, in isolation of other modifications to product packaging and marketing, is likely to serve to further increase heavy drinking among young people.[Jones SC, Gregory P. The impact of more visible standard drink labelling on youth alcohol consumption: Helping young people drink (ir)responsibly? Drug Alcohol Rev 2009]
Comorbidity of mental disorders and alcohol‐ and drug‐use disorders: Analysis of New South Wales inpatient data
Authors: XIONG LAI HARRY MAN , HUANG QI RONG 
Published: August 2010

Abstract
Introduction and Aims. Alcohol‐ and other drug‐use disorders have been found to be associated with mental disorders, however, complete characteristics of these comorbid mental disorders are not completely clear in early population based studies. This study aimed to explore the extent and profiles of comorbid mental disorders with alcohol‐ and other drug‐use disorders using a large inpatient dataset. Methods. The data source was the New South Wales (NSW) Inpatient Statistic Data Collection which collects the clinical data of hospital admissions in NSW, Australia. The data were coded using the International Classification of Diseases—10th Revision (ICD‐10). The data were from 1 July 2005 to 30 June 2006 the Australian financial year and statistical analysis was performed using SAS. Results. Of 1 592 156 patients admitted, 91 510 (6%) had at least one mental disorder diagnosis and 18 283 (1.1%) had at least one alcohol‐ or other drug‐related diagnosis. Of these patients, an overall 9.6% had dual diagnoses. Comorbidity was nearly five times higher in alcohol‐ and other drug‐use disorders than in mental health disorders (52.4% vs. 10.5%). Comorbidity was higher in males than females (12% vs. 7.1%) and was the most common in patients aged from 20 to 49 regardless of sex. There was a significantly increased risk of developing a comorbid condition in all age groups above 10 years. The most common mental health disorders were major depressive disorders, followed by dementia, anxiety and severe stress. Alcohol‐use disorder was the most common diagnosis, followed by cannabis and opioids. Discussion and Conclusion. This study shows the characteristics of comorbid mental and alcohol‐ or other drug‐use disorders. The study extends our understanding of issues addressed in previous population studies.[Lai HMX, Huang QR. Comorbidity of mental disorders and alcohol‐ and drug‐use disorders: Analysis of New South Wales inpatient data. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009]
Hormones and drinking behaviour: New findings on ghrelin, insulin, leptin and volume‐regulating hormones. An ESBRA Symposium report
Authors: ADDOLORATO GIOVANNI , LEGGIO LORENZO , HILLEMACHER THOMAS , KRAUS THOMAS , JERLHAG ELISABET , BLEICH STEFAN 
Published: August 2010

AbstractThere is growing evidence for a role of appetite‐related peptides and volume‐regulating hormones in alcoholism. In particular, recent evidence has suggested that hormones, such as ghrelin, insulin and leptin and volume‐regulating hormones, could play a role in alcohol‐seeking behaviour. The goal of this review is to discuss the results of recent preclinical and clinical investigations on this topic. The findings indicate that neuroendocrinological mechanisms are potentially involved in the neurobiology of alcohol craving. Accordingly, research on this topic could lead to possible development of new therapeutic approaches in the treatment of patients with alcohol problems. [Addolorato G, Leggio L, Hillemacher T, Kraus T, Jerlhag E, Bleich S. Hormones and drinking behaviour: New findings on ghrelin, insulin, leptin and volume‐regulating hormones. An ESBRA Symposium report.Drug Alcohol Rev2009]
1985 and all that: The establishment of Australia's Drug Strategy
Authors: BLEWETT NEAL 
Published: August 2010

Abstract A national drug summit in the mid‐1980s played a pivotal role in the establishment of Australia's National Drug Strategy. It transformed the delivery of drug policies in Australia and gave us the instruments to understand our drug problem, namely national Centres of Excellence, including the National Drug Research Institute. This paper examines how a ‘bundle of compromises’ came together in the political context of the mid‐1980s to give rise to, for the first time, a cooperative national campaign that continues to drive Australia's drug strategy today.[Blewett N. 1985 and all that: The establishment of Australia's Drug Strategy. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009;28:96–98]
Current challenges faced by efforts to prevent alcohol and other drug problems: Lessons from science‐to‐practice
Authors: HOLDER HAROLD D. 
Published: August 2010

AbstractThis paper identifies unresolved contemporary challenges for alcohol and other drug prevention including: (i) the perspective held by researchers and practitioners which guides prevention; (ii) the value of respectful partnerships of research and practice in prevention; (iii) the need for effective and practical research designs; and (iv) the means to institutionalise effective prevention efforts, especially at the community level. These challenges will need to be addressed now and in the future to improve prevention in the 21st century.[Holder HD. Current challenges faced by efforts to prevent alcohol and other drug problems: Lessons from science‐to‐practice.Drug Alcohol Rev2009;28:99–102]
Challenges in reducing cannabis‐related harm in Australia
Authors: HALL WAYNE D. 
Published: August 2010

Abstract This paper outlines the major policy challenges in reducing cannabis‐related harm in Australia. The first is uncertainty about the health effects of cannabis, especially in young people. The second is uncertainty about the extent and severity of harms attributed to cannabis prohibition by its critics. The paper summarises and briefly states the extent of these putative harms to the degree that the data allow. The third challenge is a consequence of the first two, and the very different weightings that proponents of more liberal or restrictive policies give to harms arising from cannabis use and those arising from prohibition, namely, strong disagreements within the community about how we should respond to cannabis use by young people. In the face of such disagreement the formulation of cannabis policy necessitates a political compromise. The compromise that has emerged is a continued prohibition of cannabis production, sale and use, combined with either civil penalties for use in some states and reduced penalties or diversion in others. It concludes with suggestions about what needs to be learned about the health effects of cannabis use and the costs and benefits of cannabis prohibition if we are to develop policies that are more effective in reducing harms caused by cannabis use.[Hall WD. Challenges in reducing cannabis‐related harm in Australia. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009;28:110–116]
Views of Australian mental health stakeholders on clients' problematic drug and alcohol use
Authors: CLEARY MICHELLE , HUNT GLENN E. , MATHESON SANDRA , WALTER GARRY 
Published: August 2010

Abstract
Introduction and Aims. Substance misuse by people with a serious mental illness may exacerbate psychiatric symptoms and contribute to relapse. The aim of the study was to ascertain the views of a wide range of Australian mental health service providers on staff education and training, client contact and management, assessment, and treatment effectiveness and service delivery. Design and Methods. A survey was sent to a sample of 171 mental health stakeholders in Australia identified through internet searches, state and territory mental health departments and professional organisations. Results. Of the 66 respondents (39% response rate), the substances identified to be most problematic were alcohol and cannabis. Integrated service models of treatment were identified as the most preferable and effective. Barriers to treatment included client motivation to reduce substance use, poor communication and coordination between treatment services, and lack of specific services for dual diagnosis clients. Almost all indicated a need for further training in the area of dual diagnosis. Discussion and Conclusions. Dual diagnosis is common and the reality is that this vulnerable clientele will continue to challenge service providers and treatment approaches into the foreseeable future. Issues include the organization and delivery of treatment services, education and training, resource allocation, collaboration between treatment agencies and clinically relevant research evaluating the effectiveness of practice. It is thus surprising that with so much investment in this area the majority of stakeholders are still dissatisfied with access to and the level of care for dual diagnosis clients.[Cleary M, Hunt GE, Matheson S, Walter G. Views of Australian mental health stakeholders on clients' problematic drug and alcohol use. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009;28:122–128]
A review of drug prevention system development in Romania and its impact on youth drug consumption trends, 1995–2005
Authors: DÉGI CSABA L. 
Published: August 2010

Abstract
Issues. A tremendous growth occurred in the reported drug use and abuse in Romania from 1995 to 1999. Lack of concern by government and little policy attention contributed to the surprising delay of drug policy and drug prevention system development. General public stigmatize drug users and drug consumption is considered a matter of personal fault and responsibility. There is some but not sufficient research and evaluation on drug use, abuse problem. Approach. Drug use, abuse and prevention are discussed from research‐based, user‐focused and prevention system development perspectives. Prevalence and trends of drug use, abuse in the past decade (1995–2005) are summarized. Prevention issues are discussed based on research data from adolescents, parents and teachers. The Romanian primary drug prevention system has been evaluated based on our experiences in drug use prevention activities carried out in schools and recreational environments. Key Findings. Public and scientific perspectives on drug consumption in Romania, between 1995 and 1999, were dominated by an idealistic, non‐realistic perception. Since 1995, drug use among adolescents increased almost four times in less than 4 years. The first law against drug traffic and consumption was issued only in 2000. Now primary drug prevention strategies are in action, but in general they are lacking standard evaluation procedures. Implications/Conclusion. Conclusions are drafted for new perspectives in prevention activities. More long‐term, user‐focused, demand‐centred prevention activities should be carried out in more and more diversified settings and evaluation should be thoroughly considered.[Dégi CL. A review of drug prevention system development in Romania and its impact on youth drug consumption trends, 1995–2005. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009;28:419–425]