Raymond S Niaura

Professor of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Professional overview

Dr. Raymond Niaura is a psychologist and an expert on tobacco dependence and treatment, as well as substance use and addiction to alcohol. Dr. Niaura researches the biobehavioral substrates of tobacco dependence, including factors that influence adolescent and early adult tobacco use trajectories. He also evaluates behavioral and pharmacological treatments for tobacco cessation, with a particular interest in cessation in disadvantaged population to address public health disparities in tobacco-related burdens of illness and disability.

For eight year, Dr. Niaura was the Director of Science and Training at the Schroeder Institute (SI) for Tobacco Research and Policy Studies at the Truth Initiative, where he also supervised the pre- and post-doctoral training programs. Dr. Niaura has previously taught and conducted research at Brown University, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, the Georgetown Medical Center, and the School of Public Health at University of Maryland. He was also a former President of the Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco and is  a Deputy Editor of the Nicotine and Tobacco Research.

With grants from the National Institutes of Health, numerous foundations, and private industry, Dr. Niaura has published over 400 peer-reviewed articles, commentaries, and book chapters, including the book The Tobacco Dependence Treatment Handbook: A Guide to Best Practices.

Education

BA, Psychology (First Class Honors), McGill University, Montreal, Canada

MS, Psychology, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ

PhD, Psychology, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ

Honors and awards

Research Laureate, American Academy of Health Behavior (2009)

University Scholar Award, McGill University (1979)

Areas of research and study

Alcohol, Tobacco and Driving Policies

Evaluations

Health Disparities

Substance Abuse

Tobacco Control

Publications

Publications

Current models of nicotine dependence : What is known and what is needed to advance understanding of tobacco etiology among youth

Shadel, W. G., Shiffman, S., Niaura, R. S., Nichter, M., & Abrams, D. B. (n.d.).

Publication year

2000

Journal title

Drug and alcohol dependence

Volume

59

Issue

SUPPL. 1

Page(s)

S9-22

10.1016/S0376-8716(99)00162-3

Abstract

Abstract

Youth smoking has risen dramatically during the last 5 years, leading one to the conclusion that prevention interventions have not been particularly effective. This paper provides an examination of features that define adult nicotine dependence and argues that these features need to be considered in any studied examination of youth etiology and development to nicotine dependence. We review the historical context for the concept of nicotine dependence, features that define the concept and current models of substance dependence more generally. Recommendations for future research are provided. Copyright (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd.

Does the five factor model of personality apply to smokers? A preliminary investigation

Shadel, W. G., Niaura, R. S., Goldstein, M. G., & Abrams, D. B. (n.d.).

Publication year

2000

Journal title

Journal of Applied Biobehavioral Research

Volume

5

Issue

2

Page(s)

114-120

10.1111/j.1751-9861.2000.tb00068.x

Abstract

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between the Big Five personality dimensions and smoking variables. Thirty-seven smokers completed a standard, reliable 80-item bipolar measure of the Big Five trait dimensions, as well as measures of nicotine dependence, smoking exposure, and quitting history. Despite finding some significant zero-order relationships between a few of the dimensions and the smoking variables, only one of the partial correlational analyses that controlled for relationships among the personality dimensions in their associations with the nicotine dependence and smoking history variables was significant. These results indicate the need for further research on personality traits and smoking.

Does the five factor model of personality apply to smokers? A preliminary investigation

Shadel, W. G., Niaura, R. S., Goldstein, M. G., & Abrams, D. B. (n.d.).

Publication year

2000

Journal title

Journal of Applied Biobehavioral Research

Volume

5

Issue

2

Page(s)

114-120

10.1111/j.1751-9861.2000.tb00068

Abstract

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between the Big Five personality dimensions and smoking variables. Thirty-seven smokers completed a standard, reliable 80-item bipolar measure of the Big Five trait dimensions, as well as measures of nicotine dependence, smoking exposure, and quitting history. Despite finding some significant zero-order relationships between a few of the dimensions and the smoking variables, only one of the partial correlational analyses that controlled for relationships among the personality dimensions in their associations with the nicotine dependence and smoking history variables was significant. These results indicate the need for further research on personality traits and smoking.

Hostility and the metabolic syndrome in older males : The Normative Aging Study

Niaura, R. S., Banks, S. M., Ward, K. D., Stoney, C. M., Spiro, A., Aldwin, C. M., Landsberg, L., & Weiss, S. T. (n.d.).

Publication year

2000

Journal title

Psychosomatic Medicine

Volume

62

Issue

1

Page(s)

7-16

10.1097/00006842-200001000-00002

Abstract

Abstract

Objective: Several studies have shown that hostility, as measured by the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-derived Cook-Medley Hostility Scale (Ho), is positively associated with several cardiovascular risk factors, possibly accounting for the relationship between Ho scores and cardiovascular mortality. This study was undertaken to examine associations between hostility and cardiovascular risk factors representing the metabolic syndrome in 1081 older men who participated in the Normative Aging Study. Methods: Subjects included men who completed the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory in 1986 and who participated in a subsequent laboratory examination within 1 to 4 years. Total and subscale Ho scores were computed, and associations with anthropometric data, cigarette smoking, dietary information, serum lipids, blood pressure, and fasting glucose and insulin levels were examined. Results: The total Ho score was positively associated with waist/hip ratio, body mass index, total caloric intake, fasting insulin level, and serum triglycerides. The Ho score was inversely related to education and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentration. Path analysis also suggested that the effects of hostility on insulin, triglycerides, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol were mediated by its effects on body mass index and waist/hip ratio, which, in turn, exerted their effects on lipids and blood pressure through insulin. Conclusions: The results are consistent with those of prior research and also suggest that, in older men, hostility may be associated with a pattern of obesity, central adiposity, and insulin resistance, which can exert effects on blood pressure and serum lipids. Furthermore, effects of hostility on the metabolic syndrome appear to be mediated by body mass index and waist/hip ratio.

Human immunodeficiency virus infection, AIDS, and smoking cessation : The time is now

Niaura, R. S., Shadel, W. G., Morrow, K., Tashima, K., Flanigan, T., & Abrams, D. B. (n.d.).

Publication year

2000

Journal title

Clinical Infectious Diseases

Volume

31

Issue

3

Page(s)

808-812

10.1086/314048

Abstract

Abstract

Treatments for persons who are infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or who have developed AIDS have advanced to the point where death is no longer the inevitable outcome of diagnosis. Combination antiretroviral therapy has made HIV infection less of a terminal condition and more of a medically manageable chronic disease. Thus, efforts to improve the health status and quality of life of HIV-infected persons have become one of the highest treatment priorities for the next decade. Cigarette smoking is highly prevalent among HIV-infected persons, and quitting smoking would greatly improve the health status of these individuals. However, to date, no studies have evaluated the efficacy of a smoking-cessation intervention specifically tailored to this population. This article reviews the evidence and rationale for advancing smoking-cessation treatments specifically tailored to the needs of HIV-infected persons and provides recommendations for future treatment studies.

Measuring nicotine dependence among youth : A review of available approaches and instruments

Colby, S. M., Tiffany, S. T., Shiffman, S., & Niaura, R. S. (n.d.).

Publication year

2000

Journal title

Drug and alcohol dependence

Volume

59

Issue

SUPPL. 1

Page(s)

23-39

10.1016/S0376-8716(99)00163-5

Abstract

Abstract

This paper reviews issues and concepts related to the measurement of nicotine dependence among youth. The primary objectives of this review are to: (1) review the measures of nicotine dependence currently being used; and (2) delineate a future research agenda in an attempt to advance the quality of measurement and instrumentation for this important research endeavor. Existing measures of nicotine dependence, including formal diagnostic interviews, related withdrawal assessments, brief self-report measures, and single-item indicators, are described. While formal diagnostic systems have been considered the 'gold standard' for evaluating dependence clinically, their specific limitations related to use for research purposes are outlined. Each broad class of measure is evaluated in terms of its rationale for use, strengths and limitations, and the extent to which it has successfully been applied to adolescent populations. A research agenda follows in the second section of the paper. In this section, the need for identification and inclusion of a standard set of optimal dependence measures, for enhancement of current measures, and for the onset of a new and comprehensive measures development program is outlined. Copyright (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd.

Methods to enhance smoking cessation after myocardial infarction

Goldstein, M. G., & Niaura, R. S. (n.d.).

Publication year

2000

Journal title

Medical Clinics of North America

Volume

84

Issue

1

Page(s)

63-80

10.1016/S0025-7125(05)70207-8

Abstract

Abstract

The evidence linking smoking and coronary artery disease is quite strong, and there is also a positive relationship between smoking cessation and reduction in cardiovascular disease risk. Nicotine replacement therapy and bupropion are effective treatments for smoking cessation and are most effective when combined with behavioral counseling. Intensive multicomponent interventions that include a case-management component have produced the highest smoking cessation rates for patients who suffer a myocardial infarction.

Smoking among emergency chest pain patients : Motivation to quit, risk perception and physician intervention

Bock, B. C., Becker, B., Niaura, R. S., & Partridge, R. (n.d.).

Publication year

2000

Journal title

Nicotine and Tobacco Research

Volume

2

Issue

1

Page(s)

93-96

10.1080/14622200050011358

Abstract

Abstract

The feasibility of the emergency department (ED) as a setting for smoking interventions was examined among 159 adult patients presenting with chest pain (38% were smokers). Subjects had been admitted to a 24-h observation unit (OU) to rule out myocardial infarction. We examined the frequency and extent of physician interventions for smoking using the AHCPR guidelines as a model. We also assessed patients' perceptions of risk from smoking and motivation to quit. Results indicate that ED physicians provided incomplete and inconsistent intervention. While most patients were asked if they smoked, only half were advised to quit, and few were offered assistance with quitting. Perceived risk from smoking was low among almost half of all smokers. However, over three-quarters were willing to receive smoking cessation counseling while in the ED. The ED may be an opportune setting in which to initiate smoking cessation counseling for certain high-risk populations.

Smoking withdrawal dynamics in unaided quitters

Piasecki, T. M., Niaura, R. S., Shadel, W. G., Abrams, D. S., Goldstein, M., Fiore, M. C., & Baker, T. B. (n.d.).

Publication year

2000

Journal title

Journal of abnormal psychology

Volume

109

Issue

1

Page(s)

74-86

10.1037/0021-843X.109.1.74

Abstract

Abstract

Considerable research shows that withdrawal severity is inconsistently related to smoking cessation outcomes. This may result from measurement problems or failure to scrutinize important dimensions of the withdrawal experience. Two recent studies demonstrated that withdrawal elevation and variations in the time course of withdrawal were related to relapse in smokers treated with the nicotine patch (T. M. Piasecki, M. C. Fiore, and T. B. Baker, 1998). This article reports a conceptual replication and extension of those findings in unaided quitters. Evidence for temporal heterogeneity was found across different types of withdrawal symptoms. Patterns or slopes of affect and urge reports over time predicted smoking status at follow-up, as did mean elevation in withdrawal symptoms. These results suggest that affect and urge withdrawal symptoms make independent contributions to relapse and that relapse is related to both symptom severity and trajectory.

The effects of smoking high nicotine cigarettes on prepulse inhibition, startle latency, and subjective responses

Hutchison, K. E., Niaura, R. S., & Swift, R. (n.d.).

Publication year

2000

Journal title

Psychopharmacology

Volume

150

Issue

3

Page(s)

244-252

10.1007/s002130000399

Abstract

Abstract

Rationale: Several previous investigations with animals and humans have suggested that nicotine enhances prepulse inhibition of the startle reflex (PPI). However, the administration of nicotine activates mesolimbic dopamine, and activation of mesolimbic dopamine is known to attenuate prepulse inhibition of the startle reflex (PPI), which might suggest that nicotine would decrease PPI. Objective: The primary aim of this study was to test rigorously the effects of smoking high nicotine cigarettes on PPI and other measures (e.g., heart rate, craving, and mood) when the concentration of nicotine peaks in the brain (i.e., immediately after smoking). Methods: Thirty smokers participated in two experimental sessions 1 week apart. Two high nicotine cigarettes were smoked in one session, and two control cigarettes were smoked in the other session after overnight deprivation. Results: The results indicated that smoking the high nicotine cigarettes decreased PPI and that PPI increased across trials in both conditions. The interaction between nicotine dose and trial was not significant, although it appeared that high nicotine may have reversed an increase in PPI across trials in the control condition. High nicotine cigarettes also significantly increased heart rate, decreased the latency to peak startle response on control trials, but did not alter the magnitude of the startle response. Discussion: The findings suggest that either high nicotine cigarettes reduced PPI, or possibly, that high nicotine cigarettes may have reversed an increase in PPI across trials as evident in the control condition.

The measurement of drug craving

Sayette, M. A., Shiffman, S., Tiffany, S. T., Niaura, R. S., Martin, C. S., & Schadel, W. G. (n.d.).

Publication year

2000

Journal title

Addiction

Volume

95

Issue

8

Page(s)

S189-S210

10.1080/09652140050111762

Abstract

Abstract

This paper reviews theoretical and methodological issues in the measurement of drug craving, with an emphasis on self-report assessment. Despite the important role that craving plays in many research and clinical settings, the way in which the construct is conceptualized and measured rarely receives sufficient attention. Issues pertinent to conceptualizing craving are identified. Because there is no single perfect measure of craving, it is essential that researchers understand the limitations of each measure. Measurement performance concerns that affect the validity of different measures are reviewed. Non-verbal assessment methods are also reviewed. Research factors that may help determine the optimal measures for a given study are highlighted. It is concluded that advances in assessment will proceed only when combined with additional research and a better theoretical understanding of craving.

A simple laboratory method for inducing anger : A preliminary investigation

Engebretson, T. O., Sirota, A. D., Niaura, R. S., Edwards, K., & Brown, W. A. (n.d.).

Publication year

1999

Journal title

Journal of Psychosomatic Research

Volume

47

Issue

1

Page(s)

13-26

10.1016/S0022-3999(99)00012-4

Abstract

Abstract

To facilitate the experimental study of anger, we developed a simple laboratory method to induce anger. This anger induction (AI) is similar in format to the Velten Mood Induction Procedure for depression (VMIP-D), and involves reading descriptors of anger experience, recalling relevant personal memories, and evoking the mood suggested by the sentence/memory. We administered the AI and VMIP-D to 81 undergraduate men and women and collected mood ratings before, during, and after each mood induction. The AI exhibited good sensitivity and specificity in that it induced moderate to greater increases in anger (>1 SD change) in 68% of the sample, significant decreases in happiness, and minimal changes in other emotions. Mood responses to the AI and VMIP-D were influenced by gender and order of presentation. Uses and limitations of this method are discussed.

Acceptability of computer assessments among ethnically diverse, low- income smokers

Bock, B., Niaura, R. S., Fontes, A., & Bock, F. (n.d.).

Publication year

1999

Journal title

American Journal of Health Promotion

Volume

13

Issue

5

Page(s)

299-304

10.4278/0890-1171-13.5.299

Abstract

Abstract

Purpose. To examine the acceptability of computer-based assessments among an ethnically diverse, low-income population of primary care patients. Although computers have been used to provide assessments and interventions in health care settings, members of ethnic minority and low-income households have less access to computers than other groups, and therefore the acceptability of computers as a health care assessment and delivery tool needs to be examined. Design. We examined the acceptability of computers for providing assessments of smoking history, nicotine dependence, and other related variables among an ethnically diverse, low-income primary care population. No intervention was used in this study. Setting. Three inner- city primary care clinics located in hospitals were used as sites for this study. These hospitals were located in areas of the city where low-income and ethnic minority households are overrepresented relative to the total population. Subjects. Adult male and female smokers (n = 522) were recruited while awaiting appointments in each primary care clinic. Measures. A questionnaire assessing smoking rate, patterns, history, motivation to quit smoking, and other smoking-related variables was administered using either a paper-and-pencil format or a laptop computer. Results. Frequency counts, analysis of variance, and χ2 tests were used where appropriate. Most subjects (78.5 %) used the computer to complete the baseline survey. Almost all subjects (92 %) rated the computer 'very easy' or 'easy' to use. Subjects who were Spanish-speaking, were born outside the United States, or were Hispanic tended to rate the program as slightly less easy to use than other subjects. Conclusions. Computer-based assessments appear highly acceptable to individuals in low-income populations.

Binge eating, body image, depression, and self-efficacy in an obese clinical population

Cargill, B. R., Clark, M. M., Pera, V., Niaura, R. S., & Abrams, D. B. (n.d.).

Publication year

1999

Journal title

Obesity Research

Volume

7

Issue

4

Page(s)

379-386

10.1002/j.1550-8528.1999.tb00421.x

Abstract

Abstract

Objective: Binge eating disorder appears to be an important factor in obesity treatment. Researchers have proposed that specialized treatment programs be developed to address chronic binge eating behavior. This study was conducted to examine the relationships between binge eating, depression, body image, and self-efficacy. Based on related research, it was hypothesized that depression and negative body image would be greater for binge eaters whereas weight self-efficacy would be lower. Research Methods and Procedures: Subjects were 159 clinic patients participating in a multidisciplinary weight management program. Baseline measurements of binge eating status, body image and related eating behaviors, depression, and self-efficacy were obtained, whereas follow-up measures consisted of weight loss and attendance. Exploratory factor analyses were performed to obtain factors for items contained in the Eating Habits Questionnaire. Chisquare, t-tests, and logistic regression analyses determined relationships between binge eating, body image, depression, and self-efficacy. Results: Univariate comparisons indicated that increased perceptions of poor body image were significantly related to binge eating. Higher levels of depression and lower weight self-efficacy were related to binge eating, but the results were qualified after applying corrective statistics for multiple comparisons. A stepwise regression analysis indicated that body image, particularly characterized by a sense of shame and concern with public appearance, had the strongest relationship to binge eating among all the factors examined in this study. Discussion: These findings extend current understanding of the relationships between binge eating, body image, depression, and self-efficacy. The significance of body image, especially in relation to negative social consciousness, was determined when comparing several psychological and behavioral factors thought to influence binge eating. Further research is needed to determine the causal relationships between binge eating and the other factors examined in this study.

Comments on Carter and Tiffany's 'Meta-analysis of cue-reactivity in addiction research'

Niaura, R. S., Piasecki, T. M., Smith, S. S., Baker, T. B., Rohsenow, D. A., Niaura, R. S., Stewart, J., Glautier, S., Drummond, D. C., & Tiffany, S. T. (n.d.).

Publication year

1999

Journal title

Addiction

Volume

94

Issue

3

Page(s)

341-351

10.1080/09652149933838

Abstract

Abstract

~

Cue exposure treatment for smoking relapse prevention : A controlled clinical trial

Niaura, R. S., Abrams, D. B., Shadel, W. G., Rohsenow, D. J., Monti, P. M., & Sirota, A. D. (n.d.).

Publication year

1999

Journal title

Addiction

Volume

94

Issue

5

Page(s)

685-695

10.1046/j.1360-0443.1999.9456856.x

Abstract

Abstract

Aims. In an additive design, test the efficacy of cue exposure treatment for smoking relapse prevention as an adjunct to current standard cognitive behavioral and pharmacological treatments. Design. Randomized, controlled clinical trial. Setting. Outpatient behavioral medicine clinic. Participants. One hundred and twenty-nine cigarette smokers recruited through newspaper advertisements. Intervention. After receiving an initial counseling session for cessation and setting a quit day, 129 smokers were randomly assigned to one of four relapse prevention treatment conditions: (1) brief cognitive behavioral; (2) cognitive behavioral and nicorette gum; (3) cognitive behavioral and cue exposure; and (4) cognitive behavioral and cue exposure with nicorette gum. All smokers met individually with their counselor for six RP sessions. Measures. Seven-day, point-prevalence abstinence rates (CO verified) taken at 1, 3, 6 and 12-months post-treatment and time to first slip. Findings. All manipulation checks and process measures suggested that the treatments were delivered as intended. There were no significant differences between conditions in point-prevalence abstinence rates or in time to first slip. Conclusions. These, results call into question the utility of cue exposure treatment for smoking relapse prevention.

Effects of D1 dopamine receptor agonists on oral ethanol self- administration in rats : Comparison with their efficacy to produce grooming and hyperactivity

Hutchison, K. E., Monti, P. M., Rohsenow, D. J., Swift, R. M., Colby, S. M., Gnys, M., Niaura, R. S., & Sirota, A. D. (n.d.).

Publication year

1999

Journal title

Psychopharmacology

Volume

142

Issue

1

Page(s)

102-110

10.1007/s002130050868

Abstract

Abstract

In order to study the potential efficacy of dopamine receptor agonists in the treatment of alcohol abuse, the present study investigated the effects of several dopamine D1 receptor agonists with different intrinsic activities on ethanol self-administration in rats. In a separate experiment, the effects of two of the same compounds on saccharin self-administration were also studied. To investigate further the relationship between activity in reducing ethanol self-administration and efficacious to stimulate D1 receptors, the potencies of the agonists to reduce ethanol self-administration were compared with their potencies to produce hyperactivity and grooming, behaviors which are believed to involve stimulation of D1 receptors. Rats were trained to self-administer ethanol (10% v/v) orally in a free-choice two-lever operant task using a saccharin-fading procedure. Another group of rats was trained to self-administer a solution of saccharin (0.01% w/v) in a similar operant task. Pretreatment with full (R-6Br-APB, SKF 82958 and SKF 81297) and partial (SKF 38393 and SKF 77434) dopamine D1 receptor agonists dose-dependently decreased responding for ethanol. SKF 82958 and SKF 38393 also decreased responding for saccharin. Comparison of potencies to decrease ethanol self- administration with potencies to produce locomotor activity and grooming revealed that reduction of ethanol self-administration by D1 full agonists occurs at doses similar to those which produce grooming and locomotor activity. However, the partial agonists (and in particular, SKF 38393) reduced responding for ethanol at doses lower than those producing hyperactivity. The present results underline the involvement of D1 dopamine receptors in reward processes.

Effects of naltrexone with nicotine replacement on smoking cue reactivity : Preliminary results

Hutchison, K. E., Monti, P. M., Rohsenow, D. J., Swift, R. M., Colby, S. M., Gnys, M., Niaura, R. S., & Sirota, A. D. (n.d.).

Publication year

1999

Journal title

Psychopharmacology

Volume

142

Issue

2

Page(s)

139-143

10.1007/s002130050872

Abstract

Abstract

Although several studies have examined the effects of opioid antagonists on smoking behavior, there have been no reports of the potentially therapeutic combination of naltrexone and nicotine replacement therapy. The primary objective of the present study was to determine whether naltrexone reduced reactivity to smoking cues among abstinent smokers treated with nicotine replacement. Twenty participants were instructed to abstain from smoking cigarettes for 9 h while using nicotine replacement therapy. Participants were subsequently treated with either naltrexone (50 mg) or placebo before being exposed to smoking cues. Results indicated that the smokers who received the placebo responded to smoking cue exposure with increases in urge to smoke and increases in negative affect. Participants who received naltrexone did not show any increase in urge or negative affect and showed a decrease in withdrawal symptoms after exposure to smoking cues. Although preliminary, the findings suggest that naltrexone may work in combination with nicotine replacement therapies to block the effects of smoking stimuli in abstinent smokers.

History and symptoms of depression among smokers during a self-initiated quit attempt

Niaura, R. S., Britt, D. M., Borrelli, B., Shadel, W. G., Abrams, D. B., & Goldstein, M. G. (n.d.).

Publication year

1999

Journal title

Nicotine and Tobacco Research

Volume

1

Issue

3

Page(s)

251-257

10.1080/14622299050011371

Abstract

Abstract

History of depression in smokers has been associated with an inability to quit smoking and with an increased likelihood of smoking relapse. This study prospectively tracked nicotine withdrawal symptoms, symptoms of depression, and ability to quit smoking between smokers with and without a probable history of major depression who were trying to quit smoking with minimal assistance. Results indicated that prior to quitting, smokers with a history of depression smoked to reduce negative affect, in response to craving, and in social situations. Additionally, positive history smokers scored higher on the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) than did smokers without such a history. Following a quit attempt, positive history smokers were somewhat more likely to experience greater symptoms of nicotine withdrawal than negative history smokers. However, among the positive history smokers, depressive symptoms as measured by the CES-D increased significantly 4 weeks after trying to quit, compared to a decline among negative history smokers. Positive and negative history smokers did not significantly differ on ability to quit smoking within the 30-day follow-up period. History of depression appears to be associated with a delayed increase in symptoms of depression following a quit attempt. However, it remains to be demonstrated whether such an increase in depressive symptoms may influence later probability of relapse.

Hypertension

Niaura, R. S., & Goldstein, M. (n.d.). (R. Robertson & W. Yates, Eds.).

Publication year

1999

Page(s)

65-85

Abstract

Abstract

~

Lipid reactivity to stress : I. Comparison of chronic and acute stress responses in middle-aged airline pilots

Stoney, C. M., Niaura, R. S., Bausserman, L., & Matacin, M. (n.d.).

Publication year

1999

Journal title

Health Psychology

Volume

18

Issue

3

Page(s)

241-250

10.1037/0278-6133.18.3.241

Abstract

Abstract

Lipids increase during psychological stress, but no studies have compared the effects of acute and chronic stressors on lipid responsivity in the same individuals. One hundred middle-aged men (n = 92) and women (n = 8) were examined during high chronic occupational stress, low chronic stress, and acute laboratory stressors. In addition to measures of perceived stress and affect, an extensive battery of lipid and lipoprotein measures was undertaken at each time point. Most lipid parameters were significantly increased during the chronic and acute stressors, although the responses to the different stressors were not consistently associated. For example, significant correlations among the chronic and acute stress responses were apparent for the apoproteins, but not for total, low density lipoprotein, or high density lipoprotein cholesterol. The factors and processes regulating these variables during stress may be different during acute and chronic stressors.

Lipid reactivity to stress : II. Biological and behavioral influences

Stoney, C. M., Bausserman, L., Niaura, R. S., Marcus, B., & Flynn, M. (n.d.).

Publication year

1999

Journal title

Health Psychology

Volume

18

Issue

3

Page(s)

251-261

10.1037/0278-6133.18.3.251

Abstract

Abstract

This study examined behavioral and physiological influences on lipid concentrations during acute and chronic stressors. One hundred men (n = 92) and women (n = 8) were tested during a chronic stressor and during 2 acute stressors. During chronic stress, diet, physical activity, exercise, and sleep were examined. During the acute stressors, catecholamines, cortisol, plasma volume, and cardiovascular responses were examined. None of the behavioral influences could explain the lipid response to chronic stress. Responses of the atherogenic lipids to acute stressors were not solely reflecting hemoconcentration of the plasma but were moderately correlated with cardiovascular, epinephrine, and cortisol reactivity. Diastolic blood pressure reactors to the acute stressors had larger lipid responses to the chronic stressor than did nonreactors. Elevations in blood lipids during stress are not artifacts and may be clinically significant.

Quality of life and anxiety in a phase II cardiac rehabilitation program

Engebretson, T. O., Clark, M. M., Niaura, R. S., Phillips, T., Albrecht, A., & Tilkemeier, P. (n.d.).

Publication year

1999

Journal title

Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise

Volume

31

Issue

2

Page(s)

216-223

10.1097/00005768-199902000-00003

Abstract

Abstract

Purpose: Cardiac rehabilitation programs increasingly attempt to improve both quantity and quality of life (QOL). Documenting QOL changes requires appropriate instruments, and interpreting QOL data requires an understanding of the factors that influence such reports. Methods: To address both issues, we assessed QOL among 77 patients before and after participation in a 12-wk phase II cardiac rehabilitation program. Individual psychological differences in trait anxiety and defensiveness were also assessed. The sample was 76.6% male, 70.1% married, and had a mean age of 58.8 yr. Results: The QOL scales detected changes which occurred over the 12-wk testing period. QOL reports were strongly and differentially influenced by individual differences in trait anxiety, such that patients reporting high trait anxiety displayed poorer QOL than those low in trait anxiety. More specifically, trait anxiety influenced affect reports most strongly, functional aspects moderately, and physical aspects of QOL reports the least. Conclusions: Defensiveness was unrelated to QOL reports. The 17% of participants who voluntarily left the rehabilitation program prematurely were characterized as younger, having better self-perceived health, having a less severe cardiac history, and being high in both trait anxiety and defensiveness. Study benefits and limitations are discussed.

Reflections on the state of cue-reactivity theories and research

Rohsenow, D. J., & Niaura, R. S. (n.d.).

Publication year

1999

Journal title

Addiction (Abingdon, England)

Volume

94

Issue

3

Page(s)

343-344

Abstract

Abstract

~

Smoking cues decrease prepulse inhibition of the startle response and increase subjective craving in humans

Hutchison, K. E., Niaura, R. S., & Swift, R. (n.d.).

Publication year

1999

Journal title

Experimental and Clinical Psychopharmacology

Volume

7

Issue

3

Page(s)

250-256

10.1037/1064-1297.7.3.250

Abstract

Abstract

The present study investigated whether exposure to smoking cues would attenuate prepulse inhibition (PPI) of the startle reflex and increase craving among smokers across 2 experimental sessions. It was hypothesized that exposure to smoking cues would result in a decrease in PPI. Twenty-six smokers were exposed to smoking cues and control cues in 2 experimental sessions 1 week apart. Results indicate that smoking cues reliably attenuated PPI in both the 1st and 2nd sessions as compared with control cues. Findings also suggest that smoking cues reliably increased craving, increased negative affect, and reduced positive affect relative to baseline measures in both sessions. Results are consistent with the premise that exposure to smoking cues precipitates increases in dopamine activation or changes in information processing that cause a disruption of PPI.