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System Genetic Analysis Of Mechanisms Underlying Excessive Alcohol Consumption, Maren L. Smith

Theses and Dissertations

Increased alcohol consumption over time is one of the characteristic symptoms of Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). The molecular mechanisms underlying this escalation in intake is still the subject of study. However, the mesocortical and mesolimbic dopamine pathways, and the extended amygdala, because of their involvement in reward and reinforcement are believed to play key roles in these behavioral changes. Multiple gene expression studies have shown that alcohol affects the expression of thousands of genes in the brain. The studies discussed in this document use the systems biology technique of co-expression network analysis to attempt to find

patterns within genome-wide expression …

Alcohol Biomarkers As Predictive Factors Of Rearrest In High Risk Repeat Offense Drunk Drivers, Brian Charles Kay

Theses and Dissertations

Alcohol biomarkers, or naturally occurring molecules which occur in response to one's alcohol consumption, are proving to be a value tool in objectively monitoring one's alcohol consumption. Coupling this assessment tool, with advances in computing power, new and powerful predictions are becoming evermore possible. In this retrospective study, data was first collected that consisted of a sample of 249 drivers convicted of driving under the influence charge and who monitored over the course of a year by biomarker blood tests. This data was then analyzed using machine learning methods. TwoStep cluster analysis showed distinct drinking groups within the drivers who …