bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Compulsory treatment of alcoholism: the case against
Authors: MacAVOY MICHAEL G. , FLAHERTY BRUCE 
Published: July 2006

AbstractThe need for compulsory detention in the management of alcohol‐dependent persons is reviewed with a particular focus on legislation in New South Wales (NSW). It is argued that there is no justification for the severe loss of civil liberties in order to provide a general power of involuntary alcoholism treatment since such treatment is basically ineffective and in any case little treatment is actually given to those detained. The selective operation of the NSW Inebriates Act (in terms of class and race biases) is noted. The special circumstances of those who suffer severe alcohol‐related brain damage and those who are in acute life‐threatening circumstances are discussed. It is suggested that these cases are adequately covered by existing Mental Health and Guardianship legislation, obviating the need for special legislation such as an Inebriates Act.
The energy dependence syndrome
Authors: SPENCER JOHN 
Published: July 2006

AbstractTwo major global problems face mankind in the forthcoming decades. The rapidly increasing populations, especially in developing countries, are already causing social and economic strain in many areas, and the escalating demand for energy at both the individual and collective levels are matters requiring serious global attention. The product of increasing population and increasing energy demand compounds both problems. The origins of both population increase and escalating demand for energy originate behaviourally. That is to say that, theoretically, if the human behaviour underlying these problems could be modified, either voluntarily on an individual basis, or by educational, legislative or correctional means, then these worrying trends could be brought under control. This paper is concerned principally with the underlying behaviours and dynamics of energy usage by human beings as the present trend of ever‐increasing consumption which seems to be directionless and illogical is very similar to another group of existing behavioural disorder known as addiction behaviours or dependency. These behaviours have recently received much attention and research and some of the strategies for dealing with them may be of considerable use in modifying and controlling both the per caput and collective use of energy.
Benzodiazepine drugs in Australia: associated mortality and morbidity
Authors: LOCKWOOD A. , BERBATIS C. G. 
Published: July 2006

AbstractThe use of benzodiazepine drugs in Australia results not only in widespread therapeutic benefits but also in harmful outcomes at both an individual and societal level. Accurate measurement of the level of harm has been precluded by a lack of robust data relating to the use of these drugs and to the resulting adverse consequences. This paper examines existing mortality and morbidity data, comments upon the available data sources and recommends areas where research is needed in order to clarify the relationship between the use of benzodiazepines and associated adverse effects.
Practical issues in the methadone management of pregnant heroin users
Authors: Batey Robert G. , Patterson Trudy , Sanders Frances 
Published: July 2006

AbstractMethadone management of pregnant heroin‐using patients has become a standard approach to this particular population of patients. This paper discusses the establishment and running of an out‐patient stabilization programme and highlights areas of difficulty experienced in this exercise. Guidelines are suggested for those who wish to establish such a service in the future.
Perceptions of legal and illegal drugs: comparisons of parents, adolescents, and best friends
Authors: Wilks Jeffrey , Callan Victor J. 
Published: July 2006

AbstractThe topic of drugs is a sensitive issue and an area where considerable conflict and disagreement may exist between parents and children. In this study, 50 family groups (consisting of father‐mother‐adolescent‐adolescent's friend) responded to questions about a range of legal and illegal drugs used in Australia. A multidimensional scaling analysis revealed that parents, adolescents, and adolescents' best friends had similar perceptions about drugs, especially distinctions between legal and illegal substances, and drugs used more by younger people. LSD, cocaine and heroin were judged by all groups as causing personal and family problems, being strong and dangerous, not socially acceptable, bad for one's health and associated with crime. Marihuana, tobacco and alcohol were judged in opposite terms, as well as being perceived as popular, widespread and used by youth. Subjects' perceptions of drugs were very similar to representative state and national community samples, but were inaccurate when compared to official figures for drug prevalence and morbidity. In particular, respondents showed little appreciation of the problems associated with widely available legal drugs such as alcohol and tobacco.
Do our guardians need guarding? An examination of the Australian system of self‐regulation of alcohol advertising
Authors: SAUNDERS BILL , YAP ELAINE 
Published: July 2006

AbstractIn this study the Australian system of self‐regulation of alcoholic beverage advertising was examined. Sixteen advertisements, eight print and eight television advertisements, were subjected to public scrutiny. Respondents rated advertisements using a self‐completion questionnaire based directly on the Australian Alcoholic Beverage Advertising Code. Responses were collated and where a majority of respondents had endorsed items that constituted a breach of the cose, a complaint, ostensibly from a member of the general public, was made to the Advertising Standards Council. All sixteen advertisements were regarded by the public as containing aspects which breached the code. However, the Advertising Standards Council rejected all but one of the sixteen complaints, often directly contradicting the opinions of our respondents. The social policy implications of these results are considered. It is contended that the system of self‐regulation of alcohol advertising does not serve the public interest. [Saunders B, Yap E. Do our guardians need guarding? An evaluation of the Australian system of self‐regulation of alcohol advertising. Drug Alcohol Rev 1991;10:15‐27.]
Drug policy reform in historical perspective: movements and mechanisms
Authors: ROOM ROBIN 
Published: July 2006

AbstractThe use of psychoactive drug's is regarded by many as a basic human drive, but it is one that induces a variety of societal responses to curb it. The present review examines two aspects of government policy on drugs: first, the influence of social movements on drug policy; and secondly, the choices for constraining drug use as an alternative to total prohibition. Addiction is essentially a repeated behaviour which is viewed as excessive or harmful. As such, it has many similarities with a wide range of human behaviours. With the concept of addiction becoming progressively banalized, there is the possibility of a more natural debate about decriminalization and legalization of drugs in terms of a balance between harm and benefits. The current public debate may create a climate for serious political consideration of the strategies. [Room R. Drug policy reform in historical perspective: movements and mechanisms. Drug Alcohol Rev 1991; 10: 37‐43]
Opioid drug accidental deaths in the Newcastle area of New South Wales, 1970‐1987
Authors: WALSH RAOUL A. 
Published: July 2006

AbstractOpioid drug accidental deaths were reviewed in coronial post‐mortem files of the Newcastle City Morgue, New South Wales, between 1970 and 1987. There were 23 accidental deaths directly caused by opioids, with 19 deaths (83%) involving the use of heroin/morphine. Deaths on weekends/public holidays were over‐represented compared with weekdays. In 14 cases (61%), the police notes suggested that help‐seeking had been inappropriately delayed by people in the presence of the subject. In almost half the cases where blood alcohol analyses were performed, the results were positive with a mean of 0.14 g alcohol per 100 ml. For a shorter time period 1985‐1987, opioid‐related suicides were also examined. Data on the five subjects involved in the suicides suggested they were a different target group for prevention. Opioids appear to be a very much smaller cause of death than alcohol and tobacco in the Newcastle Area. [Walsh RA. Opioid drug accidental deaths in the Newcastle area of New South Wales, 1970‐1987. Drug Alcohol Rev 1991; 10: 79‐83]
The measurement of harmful outcomes following drinking on licensed premises
Authors: STOCKWELL TIM , SOMERFORD PETER , LANG ERNIE 
Published: July 2006

AbstractThe relationships between five potential indicators of alcohol‐related harm following drinking on licensed premises in Perth were explored. These were annual purchases made by individual licensees of ‘high’ (>=3.8%) and ‘low’ (<3.8%) alcohol content drinks, the number of times a particular licensed establishment is cited by drivers as the last place of drinking prior to failing a roadside breath‐test (including after accidents) and the annual number of assaults occurring either on or in the vicinity of particular licensed premises. The study area selected was a central part of the Perth metropolitan area with 367 licensed premises serving a residential population of 400 000. Highly significant correlations were found between each of the five variables. The correlations involving purchases of low alcohol drinks, however, were small. When purchases of alcohol were controlled, significant, though lower, correlations, were still evident between the other three variables. This suggests that there are risk factors other than extent of alcohol sales which further research will need to identify, and that these indicators of harm can be of value in monitoring the impact of future intervention strategies. [Stockwell T, Somerford P, Lang E. The measurement of harmful outcomes following drinking on licensed premises. Drug Alcohol Rev 1991; 10: 99‐106]
Evaluation of a strategy for changing group stereotypes of the heroin user
Authors: WILKS JEFFREY , AUSTIN DEREK A. 
Published: July 2006

AbstractThis study examined characteristics attributed to a person using an illegal narcotic drug (heroin) and sought to change established stereotypes by participation in a group education experience. Prior to the main study, 100 Advanced Psychology students generated lists of adjectives they would use to describe a heroin user. The most frequently mentioned characteristics were placed in structured lists as pre‐ and post‐test measures. Both semantic differential and open‐choice formats were used. The Prevention Role Play, a recently developed strategy in drug education, was used to challenge the group's stereotypes. Significant shifts in attributions were revealed between the pre‐ and post‐test measures. After the Role Play students reduced their negative stereotype on a number of dimensions though they still described the heroin user as confused, insecure, troubled and lonely. The discussion considers possible strategies for facilitating positive attitude change. [Wilks J, Austin DA. Evaluation of a strategy for changing group stereotypes of the heroin user. Drug Alcohol Rev 1991; 10: 107‐113]
Pharmacotherapy of alcohol and drug problems
Authors: SELLERS EDWARD M. , ROMACH MYROSLAVA K. 
Published: July 2006

AbstractSubstantial progress has been made in the pharmacotherapy of withdrawal syndromes and organic complications of alcohol and drug abuse. Diazepam loading (alcohol withdrawal), phenobarbital loading (barbituate withdrawal) and diazepam tapering (benzodiazepine discontinuation) have considerably simplified treatment of withdrawal syndromes and have enhanced efficacy. Propylthiouracil shows considerable promise in the out‐patient treatment of alcoholic liver disease. New medications, particularly those modifying serotonergic function, have efficacy in decreasing alcohol consumption and show considerable therapeutic potential. Human pharmacology and pharmacotherapy should be a central part of training programmes in the field in order that further advances can be made.
What's so special about methadone maintenance?
Authors: NEWMAN ROBERT G. 
Published: July 2006

AbstractDespite the proven effectiveness of methadone maintenance treatment in the management of opiate dependence, methadone maintenance programmes have met with almost universal opposition and controversy in countries all over the world. The unique aspects of methadone treatment are examined, including the stringent restrictions imposed on methadone programmes and the convention of sub‐optimal dosing adhered to in many programmes. Finally, some reasons for the under‐utilization of this treatment mode are proposed, and the implications of current attitudes towards methadone maintenance programmes are examined.
Neurological complications of alcohol usage
Authors: PRICE JOHN 
Published: July 2006

AbstractThe relationships between alcohol usage and a number of neurological syndromes are reviewed. These are often complex and incompletely understood. Multiple rather than single factors are the rule rather than the exception. The correct diagnosis may be missed particularly where the aetiological role of alcohol is overlooked. Multiple diagnoses are not uncommon. Issues of differential diagnosis and diagnostic procedures are discussed. Management, including a number of its pitfalls, is outlined.
Medical education in substance use disorders
Authors: SAUNDERS JOHN B. , ROCHE ANN M. 
Published: July 2006

AbstractThis paper outlines recent developments in drug and alcohol medical education, and highlights improved prospects for prevention and appropriate management of substance use disorders. The paper also presents a model of effective drug and alcohol medical education designed to induce both clinical competence and effective practice behaviour. Of particular note is the trend towards greater emphasis on skills development, especially clinical interaction skills. This emphasis is underpinned by an increasingly behavioural orientation, whereby concern is focused on fostering clinical competence in specific skills, e.g. identification, history taking and interventions. Practical examples of the application of such approaches are noted. In addition, relevance of concepts, such as self‐efficacy and role legitimacy, to the area of drug and alcohol medical education is highlighted. Together with recent data on early intervention, and the widespread recognition and support for medical practitioners' involvement in drug and alcohol problems, future prospects are viewed as very encouraging.
Lying down with the lion: co‐operating with the alcohol industry? The 1991 Leonard Ball Oration
Authors: Hawks David 
Published: July 2006

AbstractThe author examines the extent to which the alcohol industry, while purporting to be a responsible industry sensitive to the potential harm associated with alcohol, has attempted to subvert the efforts of those seeking to reduce that harm. Reference is made to recent attempts to circumvent the advertising code, exaggerate the beneficial health effects of alcohol, co‐opt the NH & MRC guidelines regarding responsible drinking and minimize community support for control measures. Notwithstanding these manifestations of the industry's duplicity, it will be argued that the lion and the sheep will need at some stage to lie down together if the alcohol industry is not to suffer the same fate as the tobacco industry. It will be suggested that among the issues on which both sides might co‐operate are the advertising and promotion of alcohol, the responsible serving of alcohol and the design of the licensed drinking environment. It will, moreover, be argued that such co‐operation is in the long‐term interest of the alcohol industry, which like any other must be responsive to community concerns.
An Australian survey of the procedures used for the treatment of opiate users
Authors: BAILLIE ANDREW J. , WEBSTER PAM , MATTICK RICHARD P. 
Published: July 2006

AbstractDrug and alcohol agencies across Australia were asked to describe the services they offer to opiate users. Of the 284 agencies identified as providing treatment, 229 (81%) responded. A standard assessment procedure was used in 72% of agencies. Eighty (35%) agencies offered detoxification and had assisted 7883 clients with detoxification in the 12 months prior to March 1990. Methadone maintenance was offered in 20% of agencies with 5234 clients currently receiving this treatment. Daily doses of methadone in the range of 40–80 mg were described for most (51%) clients receiving methadone and concurrent counselling was provided in 45% of cases. Standard psychosocial interventions were provided by 60% of agencies. Out‐patient or non‐residential settings were most common (36%), with residential therapeutic communities being the setting for 21% of programmes. Supportive counselling was the most commonly used individual approach, and cognitive‐behavioural or 12‐step approaches were the most commonly used group approaches. Brief support or referral to Nar‐Anon were the most popular family interventions. Procedures aimed at reducing the risk of HIV were in place at 85% of agencies. These findings are discussed in light of research evidence. Briefly, there is a diversity of treatment options available from different treatment agencies which is not reflected within the agencies, little aftercare is offered despite high rates of relapse, and doses of methadone are lower than has been found to be optimal.
The standard drink and alcohol consumption
Authors: CARRUTHERS SUSAN J. , BINNS COLIN W. 
Published: July 2006

AbstractThe term ‘standard drink’ is commonly used when researchers collect alcohol consumption data and when educators create campaigns to encourage people to drink responsibly. However, little is known about community knowledge of the term ‘standard drink’ or what it represents in terms of what people are drinking in their own homes or on unlicensed premises. This study measured the amounts of a variety of alcoholic beverages that a sample of Perth metropolitan people use when drinking on unlicensed premises. The level of knowledge of the alcohol content of a variety of beverages and the knowledge of the term standard drink and what it represents in terms of commonly consumed beverages was also measured. The results showed that knowledge of the alcohol content of beverages was very poor. Knowledge of the term standard drink and what it represents in terms of absolute alcohol was also poor. Regarding the amounts of beverages poured, red and white wine, champagne and spirits are likely to be poured in amounts well in excess of a standard drink when people are drinking in their own homes. The results of this study have implications for the efficacy of educational campaigns designed to encourage safe and responsible drinking practices through the monitoring of personal intake. Before these can be effective, the terminology used must be familiar and well understood by the community towards which they are aimed. The results also discussed with respect to the design and administration of alcohol consumption questionnaires.
Drug abuse economics: cost estimates and policy implications
Authors: COLLINS D. J. , LAPSLEY H. M. 
Published: July 2006

AbstractThis paper presents a brief summary of the results of a study estimating the economic costs of drug abuse in Australia and commentary on these results. It proceeds to draw some conclusions about the extent of the potential benefits of drug harm minimization programmes and of the types of programmes which might yield high rates of return. It applies some standard analyses normally used in the areas of industry and taxation economics to draw conclusions in regard to tobacco advertising, competition between federal and state governments in drug policies and the hypothecation (earmarking) of taxes to drug programmes.
Application of pharmacological principles to benzodiazepine therapy
Authors: EVANS LARRY 
Published: July 2006

AbstractThe benzodiazepines are a group of drugs which have recently received considerable adverse publicity from within the media, much of which is undeserved. It is not unusual for drugs to produce these strong reactions from within both the professional and the general community. This paper examines the validity of the benzodiazepines in clinical practice and suggests rational guidelines for their continued use based on the clinical pharmacology of the compounds concerned.
Characteristics of clients receiving treatment in Australian drug and alcohol agencies: a national census
Authors: WEBSTER PAM , MATTICK RICHARD P. , BAILLIE ANDREW J. 
Published: July 2006

AbstractThe first Australian national census of clients of drug and alcohol treatment agencies was undertaken to document the characteristics of clients attending these facilities. Of the agencies surveyed nationwide, 431 (85.2%) completed and returned census forms describing demographic and drug use details of their clients. A total of 6175 clients were reported to have received services (beyond methadone maintenance alone) in the responding agencies on the census day. Ninety percent of the clients seen were substance users, and 10% of clients were relatives or friends of a substance user. The mean age of the clients was 34 years and two‐thirds were male. The majority were Australian born, with 10% described as Aborigines or Torres Strait Islanders. The majority of the clients were not in paid employment. Fifty‐five percent of all clients received treatments services on a non‐residential basis. The most frequent presenting drug problem reported was alcohol, followed by opiates and tobacco. Thirty‐three percent of the substance users were reported to have injected illicit drugs in the past 12 months.
Adolescent views on risky and illegal alcohol use
Authors: WILKS JEFFREY 
Published: July 2006

AbstractA sample of 1154 adolescents from central Queensland indicated their agreement or disagreement with 28 reasons why young people drink alcohol in ways that are risky or illegal. As predicted, agreement varied across the three age groups sampled, with younger respondents being most likely to agree with drinking reasons. In contrast, very few sex differences emerged in the study. This suggests that young males and females share some common views about situations related to problematic alcohol consumption, and that age differences may be the more important factor in the development of alcohol education messages.
Relationship between the number and type of alcohol outlets and mortality due to liver cirrhosis and traffic accidents
Authors: SMITH D. IAN 
Published: July 2006

AbstractThe aim of the study was to determine the effect on liver cirrhosis and driver and motorcyclist mortality of changing the alcohol outlet rates in New South Wales relative to the adjacent control State of Victoria. A longitudinal study design with a six year before period (1968–1973) and a nine year after period (1974–1982) was used. A 10.5% relative increase in the total outlet rate for New South Wales during the after period was associated with significant increases in liver cirrhosis mortality (males + 22.1%, females + 17.7%) and driver and motorcyclist mortality (males + 19.8%, females + 18.9%) in comparison to the control state. The analyses also indicated that the increases in the dependent variables were apparently due to the higher outlet rates for restaurants and stores rather than for hotels and taverns. Attention is drawn to a number of limitations of the study design.