| Science
and News Update |
NIMH: The Maturing Brain Parallels its Evolution—Newer, Later-Maturing Areas
Show More Genetic Effects with Age
Evolutionarily older areas of the human brain that mature earliest follow a simple,
straight-line growth pattern. In contrast, newer areas that support
our uniquely human capacities, such as thinking and language, mature
latest and show the most complex growth pattern, NIMH researchers
say. In keeping with their relatively recent evolution, newer areas
are composed of more complex layers of cells and show stronger genetic
influence later in development compared with evolutionarily older
areas. Researchers reported their magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
findings in the April 2, 2008 issue of the Journal of Neuroscience and online November 27, 2007 in Human Brain Mapping.
Science Update: http://www.nimh.nih.gov/science-news/2008/the-maturing-brain-parallels-its-evolution.shtml
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NIMH: New NIMH Research to Test Innovative Treatments for Children with ADHD
Two new grants funded by NIMH will focus on novel and innovative approaches to
treating children who have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
(ADHD). In the first study, researchers will lead a study on the
use of neurofeedback, also called EEG biofeedback, an alternative
therapy sometimes used to treat ADHD and other disorders. The researchers
will use a new technology in which the brain waves govern the controls
of a videogame that the child plays unaware of the brain wave training
that is going on in the background. Another study, researchers will
focus on children with ADHD who have symptoms that resemble those
seen in children with bipolar disorder. In their study, the researchers
plan to test a new psychosocial treatment that uses aspects of ADHD
behavioral programs in combination with cognitive-behavioral and
psychoeducational therapies for pediatric mood disorders.
Science Update:
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/science-news/2008/new-nimh-research-to-test-innovative-treatments-for-children-with-adhd.shtml |
NIMH Funds Research to Find Best Treatments for Children with Autism and ADHD
Symptoms
A new NIMH-funded study will help guide the treatment of ADHD symptoms in children
with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). ADHD symptoms are common in
children with ASD, but children with ASD often do not respond well
to stimulant medications, the conventional treatment for ADHD. In
this 10-week clinical trial, researchers will assess the safety
and effectiveness of two treatments: (1) atomoxetine (also called
Strattera), a nonstimulant medication for treating ADHD, and (2)
parent management training (PMT), in which parents learn how to
use behavioral interventions (another conventional ADHD treatment).
Science Update:
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/science-news/2008/nimh-funds-research-to-find-best-treatments-for-children-with-autism-and-adhd-symptoms.shtml |
NIH Director Announces Enhancements to Peer Review—NIH Will Commit $1 Billion
over Next Five Years to Investigator-Initiated High Risk, High Impact
Transformative Research
National Institutes of Health (NIH) Director Elias A. Zerhouni, M.D., announced
at the 96th Meeting of the Advisory Committee to the Director critical
changes to enhance and improve the NIH peer review system. This
marks the end of a year-long effort to determine ways to further
enrich the process. An important component of the new plan is an increased commitment
to investigator-initiated high-risk, high-impact research to prevent
a slowdown of transformative research, despite difficult budgetary
times.
Press Release: http://www.nih.gov/news/health/jun2008/od-06.htm |
NIDA: Clusters of Genetic Variants Linked to Distinct Treatment Responses for
Smoking Cessation—Findings May Help to Match Smokers with Treatments
Most Likely to Help Them Quit
Scientists have identified distinct clusters of genetic markers associated with
the likelihood of success or failure of two smoking cessation treatments,
nicotine replacement therapy and the medication bupropion (Zyban).
This study, supported by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
and the National Cancer Institute (NCI) was published in the June
issue of the journal Archives of General Psychiatry.
Press Release: http://www.nih.gov/news/health/jun2008/nida-02a.htm |
| Resources:
Publications, Toolkits, Other Resources |
New on NIMH Website:
Looking at My Genes: What Can They Tell Me? Frequently Asked Questions About
Genome Scans and Genetic Testing
This new online fact sheet answers questions about gene scans and mental illnesses.
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/looking-at-my-genes-what-can-they-tell-me.shtml |
NIH Health in the News
The June issue of NIH Health in News features stories about how arts affect one’s
health and the causes behind headaches.
http://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2008/June/index.htm |
NIH Research Matters
Brain Changes Accompany Cocaine Withdrawal and Craving
Researchers have found that brain levels of a protein receptor rise, along with
certain drug-seeking behaviors, after rats lose their access to
cocaine. The finding may help explain why cocaine craving intensifies
in the weeks and months after drug use ends. The research may also
aid development of new drugs for preventing relapse.
http://www.nih.gov/news/research_matters/june2008/06092008cocaine.htm |
Molecule Dissolves Fibers Found in Alzheimer’s Disease Patients
Alzheimer’s disease is marked by clumps of protein fibers called amyloids that
accumulate around nerve cells in the brain. There are currently
no effective treatments, but researchers have recently identified
several small molecules that can break up amyloids in the laboratory.
A new study reveals how these small molecules affect amyloids, providing
insight into potential future treatments for this devastating disease.
http://www.nih.gov/news/research_matters/june2008/06022008alzheimers.htm |
New on NIDA Website:
NIDA NewScan
The latest issue of NIDA NewScan summarizing recent findings for NIDA-funded
studies includes latest research on Multidimensional Treatment Foster
Care. |
Addiction Science & Clinical Practice Volume 4 Number 2
The latest issue of Addiction Science & Clinical Practice features a comprehensive
discussion on the challenges of using opioids to treat pain in patients
with substance use disorders. Another article describes a modification
of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), a treatment originally developed
for suicidal patients with severe psychosocial disorders, for treating
substance abusers.
http://www.nida.nih.gov/ascp/vol4no2.html |
NIDA InfoFacts: Stimulant ADHD Medications - Methylphenidate and Amphetamines-Revision
An updated version of NIDA’s InfoFacts about stimulant ADHD medications is now
available.
http://www.nida.nih.gov/Infofacts/ADHD.html |
NIA: Menopause—Time for a Change
This booklet from the National institute on Aging (NIA) begins with an explanation
of what is happening during the menopausal transition. It also includes
common signs for the beginning this transition and information about
handling bothersome symptoms. There is a discussion of some health
problems that become more common after menopause, as well as suggestions
for staying healthy.
http://www.nia.nih.gov/HealthInformation/Publications/Menopause |
GAO: September 11—HHS Needs to Develop a Plan That Incorporates Lessons from
the Responder Health Programs
The Government Accountability Office (GAO) was asked to examine lessons from
the World Trade Center health programs that could guide future programs.
GAO examined (1) lessons from the programs’ experience and (2) Department
of Health and Human Services (HHS) actions or plans that incorporate
the lessons. GAO interviewed WTC health program officials and other
experts and reviewed DHS and HHS documents.
http://www.gao.gov/cgi-bin/getrpt?GAO-08-610 |
SAMHSA: Homelessness Resource Center Feature
The current feature on SAMHSA’s Homelessness Resource Center website provides
information about Lesbian, Gay, Bi-Sexual, Transgender, Questioning,
Intersex, or Two-Spirited (LGBTQI2-S) youth along with tips for
working with them. Research notes are presented about the important
differences among youth who are homeless and identify as heterosexual,
bisexual, and gay and lesbian.
http://homeless.samhsa.gov/ |
New Reports from the CDC
Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance --- United States, 2007
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has published a MMWR Surveillance
Summary on the results of the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System
(YRBSS), which includes data on suicidal ideation and behavior among
youth (Tables 21-24). The summary includes results from the national
survey, 39 state surveys, and 22 local surveys conducted among students
in grades 9-12 during 2007.
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/ss5704a1.htm?s_cid=ss5704a1_e |
Promoting Consistent Data Collection for Child Maltreatment Surveillance
As part of its ongoing effort to promote a public health approach to the prevention
of child maltreatment, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC) National Center for Injury Prevention and Control has developed
a set of recommendations designed to promote consistent terminology
and data collection related to child abuse and neglect. Child Maltreatment
Surveillance: Uniform Definitions for Public Health and Recommended
Data Elements defines child maltreatment, presents associated terms,
and recommends data elements for voluntary use by individuals and
organizations in the public health community. It is designed to
aid state and local health department staff in the collection of
public health surveillance data on child maltreatment.
http://www.cdc.gov/ncipc/dvp/CM_Surveillance.pdf |
Department of Health and Human Services—New Reports
Employment Outcomes After Foster Care
Studies of former foster youth who aged of out of care have shown that these
youth often experience high unemployment, unstable employment patterns,
and low incomes in the period between their 18th and 21st birthdays.
Now, a new report from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation finds
that these poor employment outcomes are likely to continue into
the youths' mid-twenties. The report also makes recommendations
for helping former foster youth maximize their employment potential
http://aspe.hhs.gov/hsp/08/fosteremp/report.pdf |
The Development and Service Needs of Young Maltreated Children
A recent study explored the developmental characteristics and intervention needs
of children in the age group most likely to become involved with
the child welfare system—those younger than 3 years. Findings focus
on the risk factors affecting development, developmental outcomes,
service receipt, and considerations for successful intervention.
Results indicate that: Children under 3 years who have been maltreated
are at substantial risk of experiencing subsequent developmental
problems.
http://aspe.hhs.gov/hsp/08/devneeds/index.htm |
Healthy Start Evaluation Reports Success in Retaining Mothers in Care After Giving
Birth
Two-thirds of Healthy Start grantees report that about 75 percent of their pregnant
clients are still enrolled in the program two years after giving
birth, a new evaluation of the program has found. Retention of clients
after giving birth is a goal of Healthy Start, because it means
that the low-income, predominantly minority mothers and their children
who enrolled in the program remain linked to ongoing sources of
primary care. The evaluation also found that 95 percent of grantees
reported providing perinatal depression services to clients.
http://newsroom.hrsa.gov/releases/2008/healthystart.htm |
| Calls
for Nominations |
| Calls
for Public Input |
| Calls
for Applications |
| Calendar
of Events |
Bringing Mental Health to the Public: A Call to Action
June 19, 2008 1-2:30 PM ET
This conference call produced by SAMHSA’s National Technical Assistance Center
for Children's Mental Health will share activities to bring public
health to mental health. Presenters will highlight strategies that
will support a movement to educate policy makers at all levels,
community leaders across the continuum, and family and youth leaders
and advocates in a consistent and accessible way so that they can
further the movement of implementing a public health approach to
mental health.
http://gucchd.georgetown.edu/programs/ta_center/tacalls2008.html |
Structured Psychotherapy for Adolescents Responding to Chronic Stress: A Guide
for Trauma-Focused Groups
June 23, 2008 2-2:30 ET
Sponsored by SAMHSA’s National Child Traumatic Stress Network, this free webcast
will provide information on treatment planning for complex trauma.
http://www.nctsnet.org/nccts/nav.do?pid=ctr_train_tele_compsched |
Strengthening the Intersection of Demand-Side and Supply-Side Disability Employment
Research: Toward a Coordinated Federal Research Agenda
June 23-25, 2008, Arlington, Virginia
2008 Interagency Subcommittee on Employment (ISE) State of the Science Conference
The conference will be an interactive, working meeting that will result in concrete
recommendations the ISE can use to establish a five-year interagency
research agenda. The conference will concentrate on the following
core themes: business and employment: a global and technology driven
environment; disability workforce experiences and needs: issues
and research; a competitive disability workforce; and government
policies and practices: role and effect.
http://www.icdr.us/employment2008 |
Creating Trauma-Informed Services and Settings for People who are Homeless June 24, 2008, 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT
During this webcast, HRC will define traumatic stress and discuss its impact
on people’s lives; provide an overview of the relationship between
homelessness and trauma; and conclude with a brief discussion of
how to help people heal.
http://www.homeless.samhsa.gov/ |
SPRC Research to Practice Webinar: Understanding and Using Data for Youth Suicide
Prevention
June 26, 1:00-2:30 EDT
This SAMHSA’s Suicide Prevention Resource Center (SRPC) webinar will take participants
through a one-hour crash course about suicide-related data. By the
end of the webinar, participants will be able to: locate data on
suicides and suicide attempts at the state and national level; state
the basic strengths and weaknesses of each of these sources; and
interpret changes in suicidal behavior over time. Please register
by sending an e-mail to Regan Carver, SPRC Training Specialist,
at rcarver@edc.org . |
The National Center for Trauma-Informed Care Learning Exchange
July 11-12, 2008, Washington, DC
The SAMHSA Center for Mental Health Services-funded National Center for Trauma-Informed
Care will be hosting a two-day learning exchange and networking
transformation forum to highlight useful and practical strategies for moving forward together with the
implementation of trauma-informed care in organizations, programs,
and services.
https://www.regonline.com/builder/site/Default.aspx?eventid=606344 |
2008 NIH Summer Institute on Health Services Research: Cross-Systems Research
to Improve Health Outcomes
July 27 - August 1, 2008, Bethesda, Maryland
The 2008 NIH Summer Institute will address essential conceptual, methodological,
and practical issues involved in planning and carrying out cross-systems
health services research. The Institute is intended for investigators
who have completed their doctorate and who plan to develop entry-level
(e.g.: R03, R21, or R34) NIH grant applications for research in
this area. Faculty will include established investigators from social
work and other fields. The goal is for every participant to develop
a draft grant proposal by the end of the training that will eventually
lead to a grant submission to the relevant NIH institute.
http://conferences.thehillgroup.com/obssr/summerinstitute2008/index.html |
Paving the Road Home: The National Behavioral Conference on Returning Veterans
and Their Families
August 11, 2008, Bethesda, Maryland
Sponsored by SAMHSA, Department of Defense, and Department of Veteran Affairs,
this national conference will help Federal, State, and local partners
improve and enhance mental health and substance abuse services for
returning veterans and their families. The conference will facilitate
nationwide sharing of information on mental health and substance
abuse services and supports across multiple health care delivery
systems. Attendees will be provided science-based information to
assist veterans and their families in building resiliency and preventing
and/or treating complex conditions, including mental disorders (e.g.,
TBI, PTSD) substance use disorders, suicide, homelessness, domestic
violence, and co-occurring disorders.
http://samhsa.gov/vets/NationalConference_Vets.pdf |
AHRQ's 2008 Annual Conference: Promoting Quality — Partnering for Change
September 7-10, 2008, Bethesda, MD
The Agency for Healthcare Research Quality’s (AHRQ) 2008 Annual Conference will
The conference will again bring together the best of the Agency's
research and provide examples of how that research is being implemented
at all levels in health care delivery. http://www.ahrq.gov/about/ahrqconf08.htm |
3rd National Conference on Women, Addiction and Recovery
September 15-17, 2008, Tampa, Florida
SAMHSA’s 3rd National Conference on Women, Addiction and Recovery brings together
the leaders, directors and other stakeholders in women’s services
to hear current research, discuss implementation and promote effective
leadership to professionals and stakeholders to assist women with
substance use disorders and their families.
http://www.samhsa.gov/spotlights/WomenConference.aspx |
The 13th Annual Conference on Advancing School Mental Health
September 25-27, 2008, Phoenix, Arizona
Sponsored by the Health Resources and Services Administration’s Center for School
Mental Health and the IDEA Partnership, this year’s conference theme
is “School Mental Health for All Students: Building a Shared Agenda
for Youth, Families, Schools, and Communities.”
http://csmh.umaryland.edu/conf_meet/AnnualConference/index.html |
The 14th NIMH Biennial Research Conference on the Economics of Mental Health:
Toward Building a High Performance Mental Health System
September 25–26, 2008, Washington, DC
This biennial economics conference is an integral part of the dissemination and
research portfolio development activities of the Division of Services
and Intervention Research of NIMH. These scientific conferences
are convened exclusively for presentation and discussion of original,
rigorous and innovative technical research papers in mental health
economics.
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/research-funding/scientific-meetings/announcements/2008/the-14th-nimh-biennial-research-conference-on-the-economics-of-mental-health-toward-building-a-high-performance-mental-health-sy.shtml |
| Funding
Information |
SAMHSA Funding Lifeline Crisis Center Follow Up Grants
SAMHSA is accepting applications until July 9 for fiscal year 2008 National Suicide
Prevention Lifeline Crisis Center Follow Up grants to promote systematic
follow up of suicidal persons who call the National Suicide Prevention
Lifeline.
http://www.samhsa.gov/Grants/2008/sm_08_016.aspx |
| Programmatic
Funding Opportunities |
HRSA: State Public Health Coordinating Center for Autism
https://grants.hrsa.gov/webExternal/SFO.asp?ID=45CD5CEA-C7D3-4BB2-81B9-9340B131A358 |
| Research
Funding Opportunities (PAs and RFAs) |
Selected NIH Program Announcements (PAs)
[Full listing of NIH PAs at http://grants2.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/index.html ]
Economics of Treatment and Prevention Services for Drug & Alcohol Abuse
http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PA-08-172.html (R03)
http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PA-08-173.html (R21)
http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PA-08-174.html (R01)
Selected NIH Request for Applications (RFAs)
[Full listing of NIH RFAs at http://grants2.nih.gov/grants/guide/rfa-files/index.html ]
Pilot Clinical Trials of Pharmacotherapies for Substance Related Disorders (R01)
http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/rfa-files/RFA-DA-09-005.html
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