An Objective Assessment of Effect of Stimulants on Attention in Individuals With ADHD.

INTRODUCTION: Currently, assessing ADHD treatment response to stimulants relies on rating scales and subjective questionnaires and sometimes a CPT. Such tools fall short of objective, quantifiable measurement of effect, especially in natural settings and can result in inconsistent treatment. METHOD: We report results from two studies using a novel proof-of-concept approach. A preliminary trial of 10 individuals used a high-fidelity eye tracker; a second study of 100 individuals used webcams at the participants' homes. RESULTS: Both studies evaluated stimulant effect using reading behavior analysis, being an ADHD symptom that stimulants affect and a major symptom patients want to improve. Both showed a significant change in reading behavior related to medication state, suggesting a clear, objective measure of stimulant effect. CONCLUSION: Using ubiquitous hardware, investigators created a user-friendly treatment assessment platform where individuals can collect their own objective data within minutes in any setting where they have access to a web camera and computer.

Improving recruitment and funding in psychiatry by teaching college undergraduates.

OBJECTIVE: To explore attitudes among leaders in psychiatric training about the usefulness of teaching college undergraduates about psychiatry and to assess benefits in recruitment and funding. METHOD: A survey of current practices and beliefs was sent to most adult and child psychiatry residency training directors (RTDs) and Chairs of academic departments of psychiatry in the U.S.). A follow-up survey was then sent to RTDs at responding programs that teach undergraduates. Interviews were also conducted with education experts to learn about the potential financial benefits of teaching undergraduates. RESULTS: Of the 289 (64%) respondents to the first survey, 237 (82%) expressed that teaching undergraduates might or would lead to increased recruitment. All RTDs at responding programs that offered courses answered the second survey, and four reported that undergraduate teaching brings in revenue. Experts confirmed the financial feasibility of these courses. CONCLUSION: Undergraduate psychiatry courses may increase overall recruitment and provide financial benefits for the departments that offer such courses.