Effects of decision-phase time constraints on emotion-based learning in the Iowa Gambling Task

Research employing the Iowa Gambling Task (IGT) has frequently shown that learning is impaired in various clinical populations. However, precisely what constitutes "unimpaired" control group learning remains unclear. In order to understand some of the possible factors underlying variability in control group IGT performance, the present study sought to manipulate features of the task to intentionally disrupt learning. Specifically, the present study investigated the effects of time constraints on emotion-based learning during automated administration of the IGT. For two groups of participants, a time-constraint of either 2-s or 4-s was implemented during the critical decision making period, while a control group received no time constraint. We also evaluated participants' subjective experience after every block of 20 trials. Results demonstrated that the 2-s group differed significantly from the control group. Subjective experience measures revealed rapid development of awareness of the advantageous and disadvantageous decks among all three groups. Overall, our findings demonstrate, for the first time, the effects of decision-phase time constraints on emotion-based learning and indicate that the IGT reward/punishment schedules are to some extent cognitively penetrable.     

Joint effect of dopaminergic genes on likelihood of smoking following treatment with bupropion SR.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the relationship between joint variation in 2 dopaminergic genes and the likelihood of nonsmoking following treatment with bupropion sustained release (SR). DESIGN: Three hundred twenty-three participants in a bupropion SR smoking cessation effectiveness trial with 12-month follow-up were genotyped for variants of dopamine receptor gene DRD2 and dopamine transporter SLC6A3. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Self-reported 7-day point prevalence of nonsmoking. RESULTS: Neither genotype alone was associated with 7-day point-prevalent nonsmoking at the 12-month follow-up. However, in the presence of the DRD2 A1 allele, SLC6A3 status was significantly associated with the likelihood of nonsmoking at the 12-month follow-up (individuals with DRD2 A1+ and SLC6A3 9- were more likely to be smoking). In the absence of the DRD2 A1 allele, the association between SLC6A3 status and nonsmoking was nonsignificant. CONCLUSION: Although these results are suggestive, a more compelling test is needed of the hypothesis that dopaminergic gene interaction underlies, in part, the likelihood of smoking following treatment with bupropion SR. Most likely this will come from larger studies involving prospective randomization to treatment based on genotype.     

Using Concept Mapping to Operationalize Mental Well-Being for Men and Boys

A primary purpose of many prevention-oriented interventions is to improve the general well-being and quality of life for individuals and their communities. Unfortunately, well-being is often poorly defined, with definitions embracing related issues of quality of life, happiness, and physical health. Mental well-being as a concept is also poorly defined, particularly for different population groups. As part of a larger study to assess community-level prevention efforts aimed at men and boys, a participatory approach was used to operationalize mental well-being from a male-centered, community-based perspective using concept mapping. A set of 96 statements perceived as important aspects of mental well-being for men and boys were developed and sorted by 90 participants from the study communities. The 8-cluster solution was selected as the most parsimonious and the best conceptual fit in relation to the mental well-being concept, namely, positive self-worth, supportive community, community connections, positive masculinity, responsive institutions, strong social connection, dignity and respect, and safety. These eight clusters of mental well-being, which were classified into two overarching domains of socio-environmental and emotional well-being, can provide a basis by which to assess community-based programs aimed at this population.