3. Multi-disciplinary guidelines for avoiding C.R.A.S.S.

(Collaborative Research-Associated-Stress Syndrome): a dodecahedral approach

Applicants: Joint University Strategic Team (investigating) C.R.A.S.S.

Short Title: Medical Collaboration: don't bottle it up

Keywords: Top tips for tipplers

Hypothesis: Medical Research collaboration leads to CRASS via a stress pathway.

Aims:

Examine the incidence of C.R.A.S.S.
Investigate stress reduction using alcohol to avoid C.R.A.S.S.
Develop guidelines to avoid C.R.A.S.S. in conference attendees

Background:

It is well known that medical research causes cancer in nude mice. Our preliminary research has found detailed links between medical collaborative research and C.R.A.S.S. behaviour. Figure 1. provides a detailed description of our findings.

Furthermore, Dunn & Lazarus (1998) indicated that there is a strong positive association between prize size and collaborative input, which can be stressful.

Research Plan:

We propose a single blind parallel study consisting of 12 subjects (Medical Collaboration Researchers matched for age and alcohol intake) receiving either TREATMENT (5 standard drinks during conference dinner) or CONTROL (no alcohol) to minimise stress. At the end of the evening "collaborative session" all subjects will complete a validated self-reporting instrument to assess C.R.A.S.S. symptoms. Conference delegates were randomised using a CHAOTIC procedure resulting in group 5 receiving "TREATMENT" and group 4 (as control). Self reporting data will be cross validated using group 4 assessment by a physiotherapist, MRI and post-mortem histological samples (0.4µm slices) and flowing cytometry (after PR examination; Ethics approval pending). These data will be used to examine the incidence of C.R.A.S.S. and to develop guidelines.

Outcome of the Research:

This research will for the first time develop guidelines for avoiding C.R.A.S.S. behaviour at the College of Health Sciences Conference. The guidelines will be implemented next conference.

Budget:

3 x 12 Bottles of quality red wine

Equipment:

12 x wine glasses; 1 x bottle opener (available in laboratory)

Alternative Funding Sources:

Pfizer (Viagra C.R.A.S.S. intervention) Carlton United Breweries.