Morning and night symptoms in primary care COPD patients: a cross-sectional and longitudinal study. An UNLOCK study from the IPCRG

PubMed Central

Tsiligianni, Ioanna; Metting, Esther; van der Molen, Thys; Chavannes, Niels; Kocks, Janwillem

2016-01-01

COPD symptoms show a diurnal variability. However, morning and night variability has generally not been taken into consideration in disease management plans. The aims of this study were to cross-sectionally assess morning and night symptom prevalence and correlation with health status and disease severity in COPD, and to determine to what extent they could predict longitudinal outcomes, exacerbations and health status. A further aim is to explore whether the CCQ is able to depict this morning/night symptomatology. We included 2,269 primary care COPD patients (58% male, 49% current smokers, with a mean age of 65±11 years) from a Dutch Asthma/COPD service. Spirometry, patient history, the Clinical COPD Questionnaire(CCQ) and the Asthma Control Questionnaire(ACQ) were assessed; we used the latter to evaluate morning (question 2) and night symptoms (question 1). A total of 1159 (51.9%) patients reported morning symptoms (ACQ question 2>0) and 879 (39.4%) had night complaints (ACQ question 1>0). Patients with morning/night symptoms were mostly smokers and had on average poorer lung function, higher CCQ scores and used more rescue inhalers (P<0.0001). Patients using long-acting muscarinic antagonists (LAMAs) had less night symptoms, showing a possible favourable effect. Only a small proportion of stable or slightly unstable patients (CCQ total scores <2) had severe morning symptoms (ACQ 2⩾4: n=19, 1.1%) or severe night symptoms (ACQ 1⩾4: n=11, 0.7%). Night symptoms seemed to predict future exacerbations; however, baseline exacerbations were the strongest predictors (n=346, OR:4.13, CI: 2.45−6.95, P<0.000). Morning symptoms increased the odds of poor health status at follow-up (n=346, OR:12.22, CI:4.76−31.39, P<0.000). Morning and night symptoms in COPD patients are common, and they are associated with poor health status and predicted future exacerbations. Our study showed that patients with morning/night symptoms have higher scores in CCQ, and therefore we do not really miss patients with high morning/night symptomatology when we only measure CCQ. Severe morning symptoms predicted worsening of COPD health status. PMID:27442618

Pharmacists' interventions on clinical asthma outcomes: a systematic review.

PubMed

Garcia-Cardenas, Victoria; Armour, Carol; Benrimoj, Shalom I; Martinez-Martinez, Fernando; Rotta, Inajara; Fernandez-Llimos, Fernando

2016-04-01

The objective of this systematic review was to evaluate the impact of pharmacists' interventions on clinical asthma outcomes on adult patients and to identify the outcome indicators used.PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Scielo were searched. Studies addressing pharmacists' interventions on adult asthma patients reporting clinical asthma outcomes were incorporated.11 clinical outcomes were identified in 21 studies. 10 studies measured the impact of the intervention on asthma control. Randomised controlled trials (RCT) and non-RCTs found positive results in percentages of controlled patients and Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) scores. Discordant results were found for Asthma Control Test results. Asthma severity was assessed in four studies. One RCT found a significant decrease in the percentage of severe patients; two non-RCTs found significant improvements in severity scores. 11 studies reported pulmonary function indicators, showing inconsistent results. Eight studies measured asthma symptoms; three RCTs and four non-RCTs showed significant improvements.RCTs and non-RCTs generated similar results for most outcomes. Based on the evidence generated by RCTs, pharmacists' have a positive impact on the percentage of controlled patients, ACQ scores, severity and symptoms. Future research should report using the core outcome set of indicators established for asthma (PROSPERO CRD42014007019). Copyright ©ERS 2016.

Predicting worsening asthma control following the common cold

PubMed Central

Walter, Michael J.; Castro, Mario; Kunselman, Susan J.; Chinchilli, Vernon M; Reno, Melissa; Ramkumar, Thiruvamoor P.; Avila, Pedro C.; Boushey, Homer A.; Ameredes, Bill T.; Bleecker, Eugene R.; Calhoun, William J.; Cherniack, Reuben M.; Craig, Timothy J.; Denlinger, Loren C.; Israel, Elliot; Fahy, John V.; Jarjour, Nizar N.; Kraft, Monica; Lazarus, Stephen C.; Lemanske, Robert F.; Martin, Richard J.; Peters, Stephen P.; Ramsdell, Joe W.; Sorkness, Christine A.; Rand Sutherland, E.; Szefler, Stanley J.; Wasserman, Stephen I.; Wechsler, Michael E.

2008-01-01

The asthmatic response to the common cold is highly variable and early characteristics that predict worsening of asthma control following a cold have not been identified. In this prospective multi-center cohort study of 413 adult subjects with asthma, we used the mini-Asthma Control Questionnaire (mini-ACQ) to quantify changes in asthma control and the Wisconsin Upper Respiratory Symptom Survey-21 (WURSS-21) to measure cold severity. Univariate and multivariable models examined demographic, physiologic, serologic, and cold-related characteristics for their relationship to changes in asthma control following a cold. We observed a clinically significant worsening of asthma control following a cold (increase in mini-ACQ of 0.69 ± 0.93). Univariate analysis demonstrated season, center location, cold length, and cold severity measurements all associated with a change in asthma control. Multivariable analysis of the covariates available within the first 2 days of cold onset revealed the day 2 and the cumulative sum of the day 1 and 2 WURSS-21 scores were significant predictors for the subsequent changes in asthma control. In asthmatic subjects the cold severity measured within the first 2 days can be used to predict subsequent changes in asthma control. This information may help clinicians prevent deterioration in asthma control following a cold. PMID:18768579

Internet Administration of Three Commonly Used Questionnaires in Panic Research: Equivalence to Paper Administration in Australian and Swedish Samples of People With Panic Disorder

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Austin, David W.; Carlbring, Per; Richards, Jeffrey C.; Andersson, Gerhard

2006-01-01

This study assessed the degree of equivalence between paper and Internet administration of three measures of panic and agoraphobia-related cognition and behavior: Body Sensations Questionnaire (BSQ), Agoraphobic Cognitions Questionnaire (ACQ), and Mobility Inventory (MI). Participants were 110 people with panic disorder who had registered for an…

Association between severe asthma and changes in the stomatognathic system.

PubMed

Carvalho-Oliveira, Mayra; Salles, Cristina; Terse, Regina; D'Oliveira, Argemiro

2016-01-01

To describe orofacial muscle function in patients with severe asthma. This was a descriptive study comparing patients with severe controlled asthma (SCA) and severe uncontrolled asthma (SUA). We selected 160 patients, who completed a sociodemographic questionnaire and the 6-item Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ-6), as well as undergoing evaluation of orofacial muscle function. Of the 160 patients evaluated, 126 (78.8%) and 34 (21.2%) presented with SCA and SUA, respectively, as defined by the Global Initiative for Asthma criteria. Regardless of the level of asthma control, the most frequent changes found after evaluation of muscle function were difficulty in chewing, oronasal breathing pattern, below-average or poor dental arch condition, and difficulty in swallowing. When the sample was stratified by FEV1 (% of predicted), was significantly higher proportions of SUA group patients, compared with SCA group patients, showed habitual open-mouth chewing (24.8% vs. 7.7%; p < 0.02), difficulty in swallowing water (33.7% vs. 17.3%; p < 0.04), and voice problems (81.2% vs. 51.9%; p < 0.01). When the sample was stratified by ACQ-6 score, the proportion of patients showing difficulty in swallowing bread was significantly higher in the SUA group than in the SCA group (66.6% vs. 26.6%; p < 0.01). The prevalence of changes in the stomatognathic system appears to be high among adults with severe asthma, regardless of the level of asthma control. We found that some such changes were significantly more common in patients with SUA than in those with SCA. Descrever os achados da avaliação miofuncional orofacial em pacientes com asma grave. Estudo descritivo comparando pacientes com asma grave controlada (AGC) e asma grave não controlada (AGNC). Foram selecionados 160 participantes, que responderam a um questionário sociodemográfico e o Asthma Control Questionnaire com seis questões (ACQ-6) e realizaram avaliação miofuncional orofacial. Na amostra estudada, 126 (78,8%) e 34 (21,2%) pacientes, respectivamente, apresentavam AGC e AGNC segundo os critérios da Global Initiative for Asthma. Independentemente do nível de controle da asma grave, as alterações mais frequentes observadas na avaliação miofuncional foram problemas de mastigação, padrão de respiração oronasal, estado de conservação da arcada dentária médio ou ruim e problemas na deglutição. Quando a amostra foi estratificada pelo VEF1 (% do previsto), os resultados foram significativamente maiores no grupo AGNC que no grupo AGC quanto a mastigação habitual com boca aberta (24,8% vs. 7,7%; p < 0,02), deglutição de água com dificuldade (33,7% vs. 17,3%; p < 0,04) e problemas de voz (81,2% vs. 51,9%; p < 0,01). Quando estratificada pelo ACQ-6, os resultados do grupo AGNC foram significativamente maiores que no grupo AGC quanto à deglutição de pão com dificuldade (66,6% vs. 26,6%; p < 0,01). A prevalência de alterações do sistema estomatognático parece ser alta em adultos com asma grave independentemente do nível de controle da doença. No grupo AGNC, algumas dessas alterações foram significativamente mais frequentes que no grupo AGC.

Impact of a history of maternal depression and anxiety on asthma control during pregnancy.

PubMed

Grzeskowiak, Luke E; Smith, Brian; Roy, Anil; Schubert, K Oliver; Baune, Bernhard T; Dekker, Gustaaf A; Clifton, Vicki L

2017-09-01

To determine the impact of self-reported maternal depression/anxiety on asthma control during pregnancy. Pregnant women with a doctor diagnosis of asthma (n = 189) were prospectively recruited at their antenatal booking visit, and the presence of maternal depression and anxiety was identified using self-report and routine questionnaire assessments. Data on exacerbations and asthma control were collected during gestation. Asthma control was assessed using the Juniper Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) and women were classified as having recurrent uncontrolled asthma if their ACQ score was >1.5 during two or more consecutive study visits. Exacerbations were defined as events that led to increased treatment requirements, and doctor or hospital visits. There were 85 women with self-reported depression/anxiety and 104 women without self-reported depression/anxiety. The presence of depression/anxiety was associated with an increased likelihood (adjusted hazard ratio (HR) 1.67: 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.03-2.72) and incidence (adjusted incidence rate ratio (IRR) 1.71: 95% CI 1.13-2.58) of uncontrolled asthma during pregnancy, as well as an increased risk of recurrent uncontrolled asthma during 2 or more study visits (adjusted relative risk (RR) 1.98: 95% CI 1.00-3.91). No impact of depression/anxiety was observed with respect to the likelihood (adjusted HR 0.70: 95% CI 0.35-1.41) or incidence of exacerbations during pregnancy (adjusted IRR 0.66: 95% CI 0.35-1.26). This study provides evidence that the presence of maternal depression/anxiety is associated with an increased likelihood and incidence of uncontrolled asthma during pregnancy. Given the high prevalence of co-morbid depression/anxiety among asthmatics, further research investigating such associations is urgently required.

Asthma Symptom Utility Index: Reliability, validity, responsiveness and the minimal important difference in adult asthma patients

PubMed Central

Bime, Christian; Wei, Christine Y.; Holbrook, Janet T.; Sockrider, Marianna M.; Revicki, Dennis A.; Wise, Robert A.

2012-01-01

Background The evaluation of asthma symptoms is a core outcome measure in asthma clinical research. The Asthma Symptom Utility Index (ASUI) was developed to assess frequency and severity of asthma symptoms. The psychometric properties of the ASUI are not well characterized and a minimal important difference (MID) is not established. Objectives We assessed the reliability, validity, and responsiveness to change of the ASUI in a population of adult asthma patients. We also sought to determine the MID for the ASUI. Methods Adult asthma patients (n = 1648) from two previously completed multicenter randomized trials were included. Demographic information, spirometry, ASUI scores, and other asthma questionnaire scores were obtained at baseline and during follow-up visits. Participants also kept a daily asthma diary. Results Internal consistency reliability of the ASUI was 0.74 (Cronbach’s alpha). Test-retest reliability was 0.76 (intra-class correlation). Construct validity was demonstrated by significant correlations between ASUI scores and Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) scores (Spearman correlation r = −0.79, 95% CI [−0.85, −0.75], P<0.001) and Mini Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (Mini AQLQ) scores (r = 0.59, 95% CI [0.51, 0.61], P<0.001). Responsiveness to change was demonstrated, with significant differences between mean changes in ASUI score across groups of participants differing by 10% in the percent predicted FEV1 (P<0.001), and by 0.5 points in ACQ score (P < 0.001). Anchor-based methods and statistical methods support an MID for the ASUI of 0.09 points. Conclusions The ASUI is reliable, valid, and responsive to changes in asthma control over time. The MID of the ASUI (range of scores 0–1) is 0.09. PMID:23026499

Evaluation of Potential Continuation Rules for Mepolizumab Treatment of Severe Eosinophilic Asthma.

PubMed

Gunsoy, Necdet B; Cockle, Sarah M; Yancey, Steven W; Keene, Oliver N; Bradford, Eric S; Albers, Frank C; Pavord, Ian D

Mepolizumab significantly reduces exacerbations in patients with severe eosinophilic asthma. The early identification of patients likely to receive long-term benefit from treatment could ensure effective resource allocation. To assess potential continuation rules for mepolizumab in addition to initiation criteria defined as 2 or more exacerbations in the previous year and blood eosinophil counts of 150 cells/μL or more at initiation or 300 cells/μL or more in the previous year. This post hoc analysis included data from 2 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies (NCT01000506 and NCT01691521) of mepolizumab in patients with severe eosinophilic asthma (N = 1,192). Rules based on blood eosinophils, physician-rated response to treatment, FEV 1 , Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ-5) score, and exacerbation reduction were assessed at week 16. To assess these rules, 2 key metrics accounting for the effects observed in the placebo arm were developed. Patients not meeting continuation rules based on physician-rated response, FEV 1 , and the ACQ-5 score still derived long-term benefit from mepolizumab. Nearly all patients failing to reduce blood eosinophils had counts of 150 cells/μL or less at baseline. For exacerbations, assessment after 16 weeks was potentially premature for predicting future exacerbations. There was no evidence of a reliable physician-rated response, ACQ-5 score, or lung function-based continuation rule. The added value of changes in blood eosinophils at week 16 over baseline was marginal. Initiation criteria for mepolizumab treatment provide the best method for assessing patient benefit from mepolizumab treatment, and treatment continuation should be reviewed on the basis of a predefined reduction in long-term exacerbation frequency and/or oral corticosteroid dose. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Adaptation of Panic-Related Psychopathology Measures to Russian

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kotov, Roman; Schmidt, Norman B.; Zvolensky, Michael J.; Vinogradov, Alexander; Antipova, Anna V.

2005-01-01

The study reports results of adaptation of panic-related psychopathology measures to Russian, including the Anxiety Sensitivity Index (ASI), the Agoraphobic Cognitions Questionnaire (ACQ), and the Mobility Inventory for Agoraphobia (MIA). Psychometric properties (e.g., reliability, factor structure, endorsement) and external validity of the…

How visual images of chocolate affect the craving and guilt of female dieters.

PubMed

Fletcher, Ben C; Pine, Karen J; Woodbridge, Zoe; Nash, Avril

2007-03-01

This study asks whether exposure to images of chocolate induces cravings and guilty feelings in females. A further aim was to examine whether these effects are heightened in the case of dieters. The participants, 85 females, saw a series of enticing media images, either of chocolate or of non-food products. Two thirds of the sample were dieting or had dieted in the past; 15% had been on seven or more diets. After viewing the images all participants completed the Attitudes to Chocolate Questionnaire (ACQ) [Benton, Greenfield, & Morgan (1998). The development of the attitudes to chocolate questionnaire. Personality and Individual Differences, 24(4), 513-520]. The different conditions affected only those who dieted. Dieters had significantly higher ACQ scores after viewing the chocolate images than the non-dieters. It is suggested that dietary restriction increases desire for forbidden foods, in the form of craving, and may induce negative affect such as guilt, anxiety and depression.

The Airway Microbiome in Severe Asthma: Associations with Disease Features and Severity

PubMed Central

Huang, Yvonne J.; Nariya, Snehal; Harris, Jeffrey M.; Lynch, Susan V.; Choy, David F.; Arron, Joseph R.; Boushey, Homer

2015-01-01

Background Asthma is heterogeneous, and airway dysbiosis is associated with clinical features in mild-moderate asthma. Whether similar relationships exist among patients with severe asthma is unknown. Objective To evaluate relationships between the bronchial microbiome and features of severe asthma. Methods Bronchial brushings from 40 participants in the BOBCAT study (Bronchoscopic Exploratory Research Study of Biomarkers in Corticosteroid-refractory Asthma) were evaluated using 16S rRNA-based methods. Relationships to clinical and inflammatory features were analyzed among microbiome-profiled subjects. Secondarily, bacterial compositional profiles were compared between severe asthmatics, and previously studied healthy controls (n=7), and mild-moderate asthma subjects (n=41). Results In severe asthma, bronchial bacterial composition was associated with several disease-related features, including body-mass index (BMI; Bray-Curtis distance PERMANOVA, p < 0.05), changes in Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) scores (p < 0.01), sputum total leukocytes (p = 0.06) and bronchial biopsy eosinophils (per mm2; p = 0.07). Bacterial communities associated with worsening ACQ and sputum total leukocytes (predominantly Proteobacteria) differed markedly from those associated with BMI (Bacteroidetes/Firmicutes). In contrast, improving/stable ACQ and bronchial epithelial gene expression of FKBP5, an indicator of steroid responsiveness, correlated with Actinobacteria. Mostly negative correlations were observed between biopsy eosinophils and Proteobacteria. No taxa were associated with a T-helper type 2-related epithelial gene expression signature, but expression of Th17-related genes was associated with Proteobacteria. Severe asthma subjects, compared to healthy controls or mild-moderate asthmatics, were significantly enriched in Actinobacteria, although the largest differences observed involved a Klebsiella genus member (7.8 fold-increase in severe asthma, padj < 0.001) Conclusions Specific microbiota are associated with and may modulate inflammatory processes in severe asthma and related phenotypes. Airway dysbiosis in severe asthma appears to differ from that observed in milder asthma in the setting of inhaled corticosteroid use. PMID:26220531

Preservice Science Teachers' Beliefs about Astronomy Concepts

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ozkan, Gulbin; Akcay, Hakan

2016-01-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate preservice science teachers' conceptual understanding of astronomy concepts. Qualitative research methods were used. The sample consists of 118 preservice science teachers (40 freshmen, 31 sophomores, and 47 juniors). The data were collected with Astronomy Conceptual Questionnaire (ACQ) that includes 13…

Organizational Climate: Individual Preferences and Organizational Realities Revisited. Research Report No. 9.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schneider, Benjamin

In considering the success outcomes associated with a new life insurance agent entering an agency which fits his climate expectations and preferences, data were compiled from 914 of a possible 1,125 respondents. The agents completed an Agency Climate Questionnaire (ACQ) on managerial support, managerial structure, new employee concern,…

STIS Target Acquisitions During SMOV

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Katsanis, Rocio M.; Downes, Ron; Hartig, George; Kraemer, Steve

1997-07-01

We summarize the first results on the analysis of in-flight STIS target acquisition (ACQ and ACQ/PEAK). These results show that the STIS target acquisition (ACQ) is working very accurately for point sources (within 0.5 pixels = 0.025 arcseconds), about 4 times better than specified in the Instrument Handbook. As a result of the accuracy of the ACQ algorithm, we are no longer recommending to perform ACQ/PEAKs for the 0.2 arcsecond wide slits. For diffuse acquisitions the accuracy varies with target size. Although analysis of ACQ/PEAK data is hampered by a flight software problem, we anticipate that peakups will be accurate to roughly ±5% of the slit width (instead of the ±15% pr eviously advertised). We are implementing several enhancements to the flight software that will take effect by mid- August to improve the quality of the acquisitions.

The airway microbiome in patients with severe asthma: Associations with disease features and severity.

PubMed

Huang, Yvonne J; Nariya, Snehal; Harris, Jeffrey M; Lynch, Susan V; Choy, David F; Arron, Joseph R; Boushey, Homer

2015-10-01

Asthma is heterogeneous, and airway dysbiosis is associated with clinical features in patients with mild-to-moderate asthma. Whether similar relationships exist among patients with severe asthma is unknown. We sought to evaluate relationships between the bronchial microbiome and features of severe asthma. Bronchial brushings from 40 participants in the Bronchoscopic Exploratory Research Study of Biomarkers in Corticosteroid-refractory Asthma (BOBCAT) study were evaluated by using 16S ribosomal RNA-based methods. Relationships to clinical and inflammatory features were analyzed among microbiome-profiled subjects. Secondarily, bacterial compositional profiles were compared between patients with severe asthma and previously studied healthy control subjects (n = 7) and patients with mild-to-moderate asthma (n = 41). In patients with severe asthma, bronchial bacterial composition was associated with several disease-related features, including body mass index (P < .05, Bray-Curtis distance-based permutational multivariate analysis of variance; PERMANOVA), changes in Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) scores (P < .01), sputum total leukocyte values (P = .06), and bronchial biopsy eosinophil values (per square millimeter, P = .07). Bacterial communities associated with worsening ACQ scores and sputum total leukocyte values (predominantly Proteobacteria) differed markedly from those associated with body mass index (Bacteroidetes/Firmicutes). In contrast, improving/stable ACQ scores and bronchial epithelial gene expression of FK506 binding protein (FKBP5), an indicator of steroid responsiveness, correlated with Actinobacteria. Mostly negative correlations were observed between biopsy eosinophil values and Proteobacteria. No taxa were associated with a TH2-related epithelial gene expression signature, but expression of TH17-related genes was associated with Proteobacteria. Patients with severe asthma compared with healthy control subjects or patients with mild-to-moderate asthma were significantly enriched in Actinobacteria, although the largest differences observed involved a Klebsiella genus member (7.8-fold increase in patients with severe asthma, adjusted P < .001). Specific microbiota are associated with and may modulate inflammatory processes in patients with severe asthma and related phenotypes. Airway dysbiosis in patients with severe asthma appears to differ from that observed in those with milder asthma in the setting of inhaled corticosteroid use. Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

ACQ4: an open-source software platform for data acquisition and analysis in neurophysiology research.

PubMed

Campagnola, Luke; Kratz, Megan B; Manis, Paul B

2014-01-01

The complexity of modern neurophysiology experiments requires specialized software to coordinate multiple acquisition devices and analyze the collected data. We have developed ACQ4, an open-source software platform for performing data acquisition and analysis in experimental neurophysiology. This software integrates the tasks of acquiring, managing, and analyzing experimental data. ACQ4 has been used primarily for standard patch-clamp electrophysiology, laser scanning photostimulation, multiphoton microscopy, intrinsic imaging, and calcium imaging. The system is highly modular, which facilitates the addition of new devices and functionality. The modules included with ACQ4 provide for rapid construction of acquisition protocols, live video display, and customizable analysis tools. Position-aware data collection allows automated construction of image mosaics and registration of images with 3-dimensional anatomical atlases. ACQ4 uses free and open-source tools including Python, NumPy/SciPy for numerical computation, PyQt for the user interface, and PyQtGraph for scientific graphics. Supported hardware includes cameras, patch clamp amplifiers, scanning mirrors, lasers, shutters, Pockels cells, motorized stages, and more. ACQ4 is available for download at http://www.acq4.org.

Feasibility and effectiveness of an evidence-based asthma service in Australian community pharmacies: a pragmatic cluster randomized trial.

PubMed

Armour, Carol L; Reddel, Helen K; LeMay, Kate S; Saini, Bandana; Smith, Lorraine D; Bosnic-Anticevich, Sinthia Z; Song, Yun Ju Christine; Alles, M Chehani; Burton, Deborah L; Emmerton, Lynne; Stewart, Kay; Krass, Ines

2013-04-01

To test the feasibility, effectiveness, and sustainability of a pharmacy asthma service in primary care. A pragmatic cluster randomized trial in community pharmacies in four Australian states/territories in 2009. Specially trained pharmacists were randomized to deliver an asthma service in two groups, providing three versus four consultations over 6 months. People with poorly controlled asthma or no recent asthma review were included. Follow-up for 12 months after service completion occurred in 30% of randomly selected completing patients. Outcomes included change in asthma control (poor and fair/good) and Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) score, inhaler technique, quality of life, perceived control, adherence, asthma knowledge, and asthma action plan ownership. Ninety-six pharmacists enrolled 570 patients, with 398 (70%) completing. Asthma control significantly improved with both the three- and four-visit service, with no significant difference between groups (good/fair control 29% and 21% at baseline, 61% and 59% at end, p = .791). Significant improvements were also evident in the ACQ (mean change 0.56), inhaler technique (17-33% correct baseline, 57-72% end), asthma action plan ownership (19% baseline, 56% end), quality of life, adherence, perceived control, and asthma knowledge, with no significant difference between groups for any variable. Outcomes were sustained at 12 months post-service. The pharmacy asthma service delivered clinically important improvements in both a three-visit and four-visit service. Pharmacists were able to recruit and deliver the service with minimal intervention, suggesting it is practical to implement in practice. The three-visit service would be feasible and effective to implement, with a review at 12 months.

Predictors of asthma control in children from different ethnic origins living in Amsterdam.

PubMed

van Dellen, Q M; Stronks, K; Bindels, P J E; Ory, F G; Bruil, J; van Aalderen, W M C

2007-04-01

To identify factors associated with asthma control in a multi-ethnic paediatric population. We interviewed 278 children with paediatrician diagnosed asthma (aged 7-17 years) and one of their parents. Asthma control was assessed with the Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ). Detailed information about sociodemographic variables, asthma medication, knowledge of asthma, inhalation technique and environmental factors were collected. Turkish and Moroccan parents were interviewed in their language of choice. Logistic regression analyses were used to identify correlates of asthma control. Of the 278 children, 85 (30.6%) were Dutch, 84 (30.2%) were Moroccan, 58 (20.9%) were Turkish and 51 (18.3%) were Surinamese. Overall, almost 60% had a status of well-controlled asthma, as indicated by the ACQ. Only 51 of the 142 (35.9%) Moroccan and Turkish parents had a good comprehension of the Dutch language. In logistic regression analyses the risk of having uncontrolled asthma was significantly higher among Surinamese children (OR 2.3; 95% CI 1.06-4.83), respondents with insufficient comprehension of the Dutch language (OR 2.3; 95% CI 1.08-4.78), children using woollen blankets (OR 9.8; 95% CI 1.52-63.42), and significantly lower among male (OR 0.5; 95% CI 0.31-0.91) and non-daily users of inhaled corticosteroids (OR 0.6; 95% CI 0.38-1.07). In conclusion, ethnicity as well as insufficient comprehension of the Dutch language appeared to be independent risk factors for uncontrolled asthma. Special attention should be given to children from immigrants groups for example by calling in an interpreter by physicians when comprehension is insufficient.

A Randomized trial of an Asthma Internet Self-management Intervention (RAISIN): study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Morrison, Deborah; Wyke, Sally; Thomson, Neil C; McConnachie, Alex; Agur, Karolina; Saunderson, Kathryn; Chaudhuri, Rekha; Mair, Frances S

2014-05-24

The financial costs associated with asthma care continue to increase while care remains suboptimal. Promoting optimal self-management, including the use of asthma action plans, along with regular health professional review has been shown to be an effective strategy and is recommended in asthma guidelines internationally. Despite evidence of benefit, guided self-management remains underused, however the potential for online resources to promote self-management behaviors is gaining increasing recognition. The aim of this paper is to describe the protocol for a pilot evaluation of a website 'Living well with asthma' which has been developed with the aim of promoting self-management behaviors shown to improve outcomes. The study is a parallel randomized controlled trial, where adults with asthma are randomly assigned to either access to the website for 12 weeks, or usual asthma care for 12 weeks (followed by access to the website if desired). Individuals are included if they are over 16-years-old, have a diagnosis of asthma with an Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) score of greater than, or equal to 1, and have access to the internet. Primary outcomes for this evaluation include recruitment and retention rates, changes at 12 weeks from baseline for both ACQ and Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (AQLQ) scores, and quantitative data describing website usage (number of times logged on, length of time logged on, number of times individual pages looked at, and for how long). Secondary outcomes include clinical outcomes (medication use, health services use, lung function) and patient reported outcomes (including adherence, patient activation measures, and health status). Piloting of complex interventions is considered best practice and will maximise the potential of any future large-scale randomized controlled trial to successfully recruit and be able to report on necessary outcomes. Here we will provide results across a range of outcomes which will provide estimates of efficacy to inform the design of a future full-scale randomized controlled trial of the 'Living well with asthma' website. This trial is registered with Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN78556552 on 18/06/13.

ACQ4: an open-source software platform for data acquisition and analysis in neurophysiology research

PubMed Central

Campagnola, Luke; Kratz, Megan B.; Manis, Paul B.

2014-01-01

The complexity of modern neurophysiology experiments requires specialized software to coordinate multiple acquisition devices and analyze the collected data. We have developed ACQ4, an open-source software platform for performing data acquisition and analysis in experimental neurophysiology. This software integrates the tasks of acquiring, managing, and analyzing experimental data. ACQ4 has been used primarily for standard patch-clamp electrophysiology, laser scanning photostimulation, multiphoton microscopy, intrinsic imaging, and calcium imaging. The system is highly modular, which facilitates the addition of new devices and functionality. The modules included with ACQ4 provide for rapid construction of acquisition protocols, live video display, and customizable analysis tools. Position-aware data collection allows automated construction of image mosaics and registration of images with 3-dimensional anatomical atlases. ACQ4 uses free and open-source tools including Python, NumPy/SciPy for numerical computation, PyQt for the user interface, and PyQtGraph for scientific graphics. Supported hardware includes cameras, patch clamp amplifiers, scanning mirrors, lasers, shutters, Pockels cells, motorized stages, and more. ACQ4 is available for download at http://www.acq4.org. PMID:24523692

AcqWeb: Book-Buying in the Age of the Internet.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Leiserson, Anna Belle; Cook, Eleanor; Brading, Peter; Marshall, David L.

1997-01-01

Describes AcqWeb, a Web site that has pertinent information for library acquisitions. Topics include the partnership with ACQNET, the electronic news group for acquisitions; AcqWeb's structure; editorial policy; the International Directory of E-mail Addresses of Publishers, Vendors and Related Professional Associations; and future possibilities.…

Characterization of pyrolytic products obtained from fast pyrolysis of chromated copper arsenate (CCA)- and alkaline copper quaternary compounds (ACQ)-treated wood biomasses.

PubMed

Kim, Jae-Young; Kim, Tae-Sung; Eom, In-Yong; Kang, Sung Mo; Cho, Tae-Su; Choi, In Gyu; Choi, Joon Weon

2012-08-15

In this study, chromated copper arsenate-treated wood (CCA-W) and alkaline copper quaternary compounds-treated wood (ACQ-W) were subjected to fast pyrolysis at 500°C for ca. 2s to produce bio-oil and char. The physicochemical properties of the pyrolytic products as well as the distribution of heavy metals - arsenic, copper and chrome - during fast pyrolysis were investigated. The water content, viscosity, pH and higher heating value (HHV) of bio-oil from CCA-W were 24.8 wt%, 13.5 cSt, 2.1 and 16 MJ/kg, respectively, whereas those of bio-oil from ACQ-W were 27.9 wt%, 16 cSt, 3.0 and 14.1 MJ/kg, respectively. The yields of bio-oil from CCA-W and ACQ-W were 43.3% and 46.6%, respectively, significantly lower than that of control (61.6%). In the pyrolytic products of CCA-W, the concentrations of arsenic, copper and chromium were determined to be 36.4 wt%, 74.0 wt% and 75.4 wt% in char, respectively, 34.5 wt%, 10.3 wt% and 9.0 wt% in bio-oil, respectively, and 29.0 wt%, 15.7 wt% and 15.5 wt% in gas, respectively. In addition, most of the copper appeared in the char (98.8 wt%) and only a trace amount of copper was detected in the bio-oil (0.2 wt%) produced by ACQ-W. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Measurement characteristics of the childhood Asthma-Control Test and a shortened, child-only version

PubMed Central

Bime, Christian; Gerald, Joe K; Wei, Christine Y; Holbrook, Janet T; Teague, William G; Wise, Robert A; Gerald, Lynn B

2016-01-01

The childhood Asthma-Control Test (C-ACT) is validated for assessing asthma control in paediatric asthma. Among children aged 4–11 years, the C-ACT requires the simultaneous presence of both parent and child. There is an unmet need for a tool that can be used to assess asthma control in children when parents or caregivers are not present such as in the school setting. We assessed the psychometric properties and estimated the minimally important difference (MID) of the C-ACT and a modified version, comprising only the child responses (C-ACTc). Asthma patients aged 6–11 years (n=161) from a previously completed multicenter randomised trial were included. Demographic information, spirometry and questionnaire scores were obtained at baseline and during follow-up. Participants or their guardians kept a daily asthma diary. Internal consistency reliabilities of the C-ACT and C-ACTc were 0.76 and 0.67 (Cronbach’s α), respectively. Test–retest reliabilities of the C-ACT and C-ACTc were 0.72 and 0.66 (intra-class correlation), respectively. Significant correlations were noted between C-ACT scores and ACQ scores (Spearman’s correlation r=−0.56, 95% CI (−0.66, −0.44), P<0.001). The strength of the correlation between C-ACTc scores and ACQ scores was weaker (Spearman’s correlation r=−0.46, 95% CI (−0.58, −0.33), P<0.001). We estimated the MID for the C-ACT and C-ACTc to be 2 points and 1 point, respectively. Among asthma patients aged 6–11 years, the C-ACT had good psychometric properties. The psychometric properties of a shortened child-only version (C-ACTc), although acceptable, are not as strong. PMID:27763622

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy vs. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing for Treating Panic Disorder: A Randomized Controlled Trial

PubMed Central

Horst, Ferdinand; Den Oudsten, Brenda; Zijlstra, Wobbe; de Jongh, Ad; Lobbestael, Jill; De Vries, Jolanda

2017-01-01

Objective: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an effective intervention for patients with panic disorder (PD). From a theoretical perspective, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy could also be useful in the treatment of PD because: (1) panic attacks can be experienced as life threatening; (2) panic memories specific to PD resemble traumatic memories as seen in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD); and (3) PD often develops following a distressing life event. The primary objective of this Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT), was to compare EMDR therapy with CBT for PD and determine whether EMDR is not worse than CBT in reducing panic symptoms and improving Quality Of Life (QOL). Methods: Two-arm (CBT and EMDR) parallel RCT in patients with PD (N = 84). Patients were measured at baseline (T1), directly after the last therapy session (T2), and 3 months after ending therapy (T3). Non-inferiority testing (linear mixed model with intention-to-treat analysis) was applied. Patients were randomly assigned to 13 weekly 60-min sessions of CBT (N = 42) or EMDR therapy (N = 42). Standard protocols were used. The primary outcome measure was severity of PD at T3, as measured with the Agoraphobic Cognitions Questionnaire (ACQ), the Body Sensations Questionnaire (BSQ), and the Mobility Inventory (MI). The secondary outcome measure was QOL, as measured with the World Health Organization Quality of Life short version (WHOQOL-Bref), at T3. Results: The severity of PD variables ACQ and BSQ showed non-inferiority of EMDR to CBT, while MI was inconclusive (adjusted analyses). Overall QOL and general health, Psychological health, Social relationships, and Environment showed non-inferiority of EMDR to CBT, while Physical health was inconclusive. Conclusion: EMDR therapy proved to be as effective as CBT for treating PD patients. Trial Registration: Dutch Trial Register, Nr. 3134 http://www.trialregister.nl/trialreg/admin/rctview.asp?TC=3134 PMID:28868042

Determinants and impact of suboptimal asthma control in Europe: The INTERNATIONAL CROSS-SECTIONAL AND LONGITUDINAL ASSESSMENT ON ASTHMA CONTROL (LIAISON) study.

PubMed

Braido, Fulvio; Brusselle, Guy; Guastalla, Daniele; Ingrassia, Eleonora; Nicolini, Gabriele; Price, David; Roche, Nicolas; Soriano, Joan B; Worth, Heinrich

2016-05-14

According to the Global Initiative of Asthma, the aim of asthma treatment is to gain and maintain control. In the INTERNATIONAL CROSS-SECTIONAL AND LONGITUDINAL ASSESSMENT ON ASTHMA CONTROL (LIAISON) study, we evaluated the level of asthma control and quality of life (QoL), as well as their determinants and impact in a population consulting specialist settings. LIAISON is a prospective, multicentre, observational study with a cross-sectional and a 12-month longitudinal phase. Adults with an asthma diagnosis since at least 6 months, receiving the same asthma treatment in the 4 weeks before enrolment were included. Asthma control was assessed with the 6-item Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) and QoL with the MiniAsthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (MiniAQLQ). Overall, 8111 asthmatic patients were enrolled in 12 European countries. Asthma control was suboptimal in 56.5 % of patients and it was associated with poorer asthma-related QoL, higher risk of exacerbations and greater consumption of healthcare resources. Variables associated with suboptimal control were age, gender, obesity, smoking and comorbidities. Major determinants of poor asthma control were seasonal worsening and persisting exposure to allergens/irritants/triggers, followed by treatment-related issues. The cross-sectional phase results confirm that suboptimal control is frequent and has a high individual and economic impact. The clinicaltrials.gov identifier is NCT01567280 .

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Chen, A.S.C.

The evaluation addresses the waste reduction/pollution prevention and economic issues involved in replacing chromated copper arsenate (CCA) with ammoniacal copper/quaternary ammonium (ACQ) as a way to preserve wood. The most obvious pollution prevention benefit gained by using ACQ is eliminating the use of arsenic and chromium, both of which generate hazardous wastes and a risk of contaminating the environment via chemical spills. Because most treatment plants are self-contained in that they reuse all wastewater produced within the plant and on the drip pads, no liquid waste problems were addressed for either the CCA or the ACQ treating process. The ACQmore » system generates more air pollution than does the CCA system, mainly as ammonia (NH3). For a plant with an annual production of 1 million cu ft (or about 20 million board feet), 90,000 lb of NH3 would be released per year from the ACQ treatment operations and the ACQ-treated wood. The treated wood, after being transferred from the drip pads to the outside storage yard, could become a major source of contamination.« less

Poor symptom control is associated with reduced CT scan segmental airway lumen area in smokers with asthma.

PubMed

Thomson, Neil C; Chaudhuri, Rekha; Spears, Mark; Messow, Claudia-Martina; MacNee, William; Connell, Martin; Murchison, John T; Sproule, Michael; McSharry, Charles

2015-03-01

Cigarette smoking is associated with worse symptoms in asthma and abnormal segmental airways in healthy subjects. We tested the hypothesis that current symptom control in smokers with asthma is associated with altered segmental airway dimensions measured by CT scan. In 93 subjects with mild, moderate, and severe asthma (smokers and never smokers), we recorded Asthma Control Questionnaire-6 (ACQ-6) score, spirometry (FEV1; forced expiratory flow rate, midexpiratory phase [FEF(25%-75%)]), residual volume (RV), total lung capacity (TLC), and CT scan measures of the right bronchial (RB) and left bronchial (LB) segmental airway dimensions (wall thickness, mm; lumen area, mm²) in the RB3/LB3, RB6/LB6, and RB10/LB10 (smaller) airways. The CT scan segmental airway (RB10 and LB10) lumen area was reduced in smokers with asthma compared with never smokers with asthma; RB10, 16.6 mm² (interquartile range, 12.4-19.2 mm²) vs 19.6 mm² (14.7-24.2 mm²) (P = .01); LB10, 14.8 mm² (12.1-19.0 mm²) vs 19.9 mm² (14.5-25.0 mm²) (P = .003), particularly in severe disease, with no differences in wall thickness or in larger airway (RB3 and LB3) dimensions. In smokers with asthma, a reduced lumen area in fifth-generation airways (RB10 or LB10) was associated with poor symptom control (higher ACQ-6 score) (-0.463 [-0.666 to -0.196], P = .001, and -0.401 [-0.619 to -0.126], P = .007, respectively) and reduced postbronchodilator FEF(25%-75%) (0.521 [0.292-0.694], P < .001, and [0.471 [0.236-0.654], P = .001, respectively) and higher RV/TLC %. The CT scan segmental airway lumen area is reduced in smokers with asthma compared with never smokers with asthma, particularly in severe disease, and is associated with worse current symptom control and small airway dysfunction.

Associations Between Asthma Control and Airway Obstruction and Performance of Activities of Daily Living in Older Adults with Asthma.

PubMed

Woods, Eric C; O'Conor, Rachel; Martynenko, Melissa; Wolf, Michael S; Wisnivesky, Juan P; Federman, Alex D

2016-05-01

To determine the effect of asthma on functional limitations of older adults in the United States. Analyses were conducted with data from the Asthma Beliefs and Literacy in the Elderly study, a prospective cohort study of people aged 60 and older with asthma. Participants were recruited from urban primary care and pulmonary specialty practices in New York City and Chicago between 2010 and 2012. Individuals aged 60 and older with asthma (380 women, 72 men, mean age 67.5 ± 6.8 (range 60-98), 40% Latino, 30% black). Characteristics of participants with and without activity of daily living (ADL) limitations were compared using the chi-square test. Generalized estimating equations were used to model the relationships between poor asthma control (Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) score >1.5) and severity of airway obstruction (forced expiratory volume in 1-second (FEV1 )) and number of ADL limitations. Participants with one or more ADL limitations were more likely to be female (90% vs 81%, P = .02) and Latino (58% vs 32%, P < .001), have less than a high school education (53% vs 27%, P < .001) and an income of $1,350 per month or less (79% vs 46%, P < .001), and be unmarried (78% vs 64%, P = .003). In the adjusted analysis, poorer ACQ scores (odds ratio (OR) = 1.6, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.0-2.4; P = .05) but not severity of airway obstruction (OR = 1.1, 95% CI = 0.6-1.9) was associated with greater ADL limitations. Older adults reporting poor asthma control are more likely to have ADL limitations than those with controlled asthma, although one-time spirometry may not adequately identify those at risk of physical impairment from asthma. © 2016, Copyright the Authors Journal compilation © 2016, The American Geriatrics Society.

Implementation of Rocking Chair Therapy for Veterans in Residential Substance Use Disorder Treatment [Formula: see text].

PubMed

Cross, Rene' L; White, Justin; Engelsher, Jaclyn; O'Connor, Stephen S

Substance use disorder (SUD) and mental health diagnosis negatively affect Veteran homelessness. Assess the acceptance and feasibility of rocking chair therapy as a self-implemented intervention for mood and substance cravings. For homeless Veterans in SUD treatment, how does adding vestibular stimulation by use of a rocking chair compared with treatment as usual affect levels of anxiety and substance cravings? Two significant findings were observed. First, a greater number of minutes spent rocking was associated with significantly greater scores on the Expectancy scale of the Alcohol Craving Questionnaire (ACQ; p = .05), suggesting participants experiencing higher urges and desires to drink rocked to self-soothe. Second, a significant association was observed between a greater number of minutes spent rocking and lower scores on the ACQ Purposefulness subscale ( p = .03), indicating greater time rocking was associated with fewer urges and desires that are connected with the intent and plan to drink. Vestibular stimulation by rocking in a rocking chair may increase the ability to self-regulate mood and substance cravings, thereby potentially reducing risk of relapse and recurrent chronic homelessness.

Comparison of Costs and Clinical Outcomes Between Hospital and Outpatient Administration of Omalizumab in Patients With Severe Uncontrolled Asthma.

PubMed

Chiner, Eusebi; Fernández-Fabrellas, Estrella; Landete, Pedro; Novella, Laura; Ramón, Mercedes; Sancho-Chust, José Norberto; Senent, Cristina; Berraondo, Javier

2016-04-01

To compare clinical outcomes and costs between two administration strategies of omalizumab treatment. We evaluated two cohorts of patients with uncontrolled severe asthma over a 1-year period. Patients received the treatment in the primary care center in Hospital A and conventional hospital administration in Hospital B. We studied 130 patients, 86 in Hospital A and 44 in Hospital B, 30 men (24%) and 100 women (76%), age 50 ± 15 years, FEV1% 67 ± 22%, body mass index (BMI) 28 ± 6 kg/m(2), 639 ± 747 UI IgE/mL, followed for 24 ± 11 months (12-45), Asthma Control Test (ACT) score 12 ± 4 and Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) 3 ± 2. There were no significant pretreatment differences between the groups in hospital admissions and emergency room visits in the previous year, nor in proportion of patients receiving oral steroids. Evaluations were performed at baseline and after 12 months of treatment, revealing significant differences in ACT (P<0.001), ACQ (P<0.001), improvement in FEV1% (P<0.001), reduction in total admissions (P<0.001), days of hospitalization (P<0.001), emergency room visits (P<0.001), cycles and doses of oral steroids (P<0.001) compared to the previous year. Hospitalization costs, emergency room visits, unscheduled visits to primary care and to the pulmonologist were significantly reduced in each hospital and on the whole, but administration and travel costs were 35% lower in the ambulatory strategy adopted in Hospital A. The administration of omalizumab in ambulatory health centers achieved the same clinical results as a hospital administration strategy, but with lower costs. Copyright © 2015 SEPAR. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

Stability of FeNO and airway hyperresponsiveness to mannitol in untreated asthmatics.

PubMed

Udesen, Pernille Bækgaard; Westergaard, Christian Grabow; Porsbjerg, Celeste; Backer, Vibeke

2017-06-01

Airway hyperresponsiveness and airway inflammation are important hallmarks of asthma and are useful in asthma diagnosing, monitoring and treatment. The aim of the study was to assess whether two commonly used clinical tests, the mannitol challenge and Fraction of exhaled NO (FeNO), were stable clinical indicators over time in stable untreated asthmatics. 54 non-smoking, asthma patients not treated with steroids were enrolled in the study and assessed at baseline and a median of 6 months later. At baseline and follow-up, FeNO and airway hyperesponsiveness to mannitol were measured, and asthma control was assessed with the Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ). A total of 41 subjects completed both visits. Mean (SD) FEV1% at baseline was 94.1% (17.7) and at re-examination 94.6% (19.7) (ns). The ACQ score was unchanged from baseline (Mean (SD): 0.90 (± 0.73)) to follow-up 0.90 (± 0.74) (ns), as was the FEV 1 % (94.1% (±17.1%) vs 94.6% (19.7%)(ns) indicating that patients were clinically stable during follow-up. The response to mannitol was unchanged at follow-up (Geometric mean (CI) of Response Dose Ratio (RDR) to mannitol: 0.026(0.013-0.046) vs 0.026(0.012-0.050) (ns). There was a slight decrease in FeNO at follow-up (25.5 ppb (19.7-32.9) to 21.9 ppb (17.1-28.2) (p < 0.001). In steroid-free non-smoking asthmatics with constant symptom scores and lung function, airway responsiveness to mannitol remained at the same level over a period of months, while a minor change in exhaled FeNO was reported. These results suggest that mannitol is a stable, reliable marker of clinical disease activity.

Real-world effects of two inhaled corticosteroid/long-acting β₂-agonist combinations in the treatment of asthma.

PubMed

Yatera, Kazuhiro; Yamasaki, Kei; Nishida, Chinatsu; Noguchi, Shingo; Oda, Keishi; Akata, Kentarou; Nagata, Shuya; Kawanami, Yukiko; Kawanami, Toshinori; Ishimoto, Hiroshi; Mukae, Hiroshi

2014-09-01

There are several inhaled corticosteroid/long-acting β2-agonist (ICS/LABA) combinations currently used to treat asthmatic patients, but the differences in the clinical effects of these ICS/LABAs are currently unknown. We herein evaluated the effects of two currently available ICS/LABA combinations in a real-world setting. A fluticasone propionate/salmeterol combined Discus inhaler (FP/SM; 250/50 μg bid) was switched to a budesonide/formoterol Turbuhaler inhaler (BUD/FM; 160/4.5 μg two inhalations bid) and FP/SM (500/50 μg bid) was also switched to BUD/FM (160/4.5 μg four inhalations bid) in symptomatic asthmatic patients treated with FP/SM over 20 years of age. Sixty patients were enrolled in this study, and the scores of the asthma control test (ACT) and asthma control questionnaire-5 item version (ACQ5) were significantly improved 4 and 8 weeks after the switch to ICS/LABA treatments, and well-controlled asthma (ACQ5 score <0.75) and good control (ACT score >20) was achieved in 54 (90%) and 40 (66.7%) patients, respectively, at 8 weeks. The spirometric analysis revealed significant improvements of the values of the peak expiratory flow (PEF) and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) after switching from FP/SM to BUD/FM, and significantly improved small airway impairments ([Formula: see text]50 and [Formula: see text]25) were observed in patients treated with high-dose ICS/LABA. These subjective and objective improvements were also seen in patients aged over 65 years old. These data demonstrated that changing the combined ICS/LABA inhaler from FP/SM to BUD/FM can lead to more effective management of symptomatic patients with asthma, especially in patients treated with high-dose ICS/LABA.

EVALUATING ACQ AS AN ALTERNATIVE WOOD PRESERVATIVE SYSTEM

EPA Science Inventory

This evaluation addresses the waste reduction/pollution prevention and economic issues involved in replacing chromated copper arsenate (CCA) with ammoniacal copper/quaternary ammonium (ACQ) as a way to preserve wood. The most obvious pollution prevention benefit gained by using A...

Effect of Preservative Pretreatment on the Biological Durability of Corn Straw Fiber/HDPE Composites.

PubMed

Xuan, Lihui; Hui, Dongxue; Cheng, Wanli; Wong, Andrew H H; Han, Guangping; Tan, Wei Khong; Tawi, Carlson A D

2017-07-12

The effects of alkaline copper quaternary (ACQ) and zinc borate (ZB) on the resistance of corn stalk fiber (CSF)-reinforced high-density polyethylene (HDPE) composites to biodegradation were examined. Both biocides could inhibit termites, mold fungi, and wood-decay fungi, even at high CSF formulations (i.e., 60%). Additionally, ACQ enhanced the resistance of the composite materials to certain biotic stresses better than ZB. The CSF/HDPE composites treated with ACQ at the 3.0% level exhibited a superior performance against termites, white rot fungi, and brown rot fungi. ACQ treatment at the 1% level was optimal for inhibiting soft rot fungi. Furthermore, mold growth was not observed on ACQ-treated CSF/HDPE samples. The untreated CSF/HDPE composites were more susceptible to mold infections and decay than the untreated poplar/HDPE composites, likely because of an incomplete removal of the pith. The chemical features of the corn stalk may also have influenced these differences, but this possibility will need to be explored in future investigations. Furthermore, the CSF component of CSF/HDPE composites is highly susceptible to fungal attacks, with the soft rot fungus inducing the largest mass losses, followed by the white rot fungus, and then the brown rot fungus.

Effect of Preservative Pretreatment on the Biological Durability of Corn Straw Fiber/HDPE Composites

PubMed Central

Xuan, Lihui; Hui, Dongxue; Cheng, Wanli; Wong, Andrew H. H.; Han, Guangping; Tan, Wei Khong; Tawi, Carlson A. D.

2017-01-01

The effects of alkaline copper quaternary (ACQ) and zinc borate (ZB) on the resistance of corn stalk fiber (CSF)-reinforced high-density polyethylene (HDPE) composites to biodegradation were examined. Both biocides could inhibit termites, mold fungi, and wood-decay fungi, even at high CSF formulations (i.e., 60%). Additionally, ACQ enhanced the resistance of the composite materials to certain biotic stresses better than ZB. The CSF/HDPE composites treated with ACQ at the 3.0% level exhibited a superior performance against termites, white rot fungi, and brown rot fungi. ACQ treatment at the 1% level was optimal for inhibiting soft rot fungi. Furthermore, mold growth was not observed on ACQ-treated CSF/HDPE samples. The untreated CSF/HDPE composites were more susceptible to mold infections and decay than the untreated poplar/HDPE composites, likely because of an incomplete removal of the pith. The chemical features of the corn stalk may also have influenced these differences, but this possibility will need to be explored in future investigations. Furthermore, the CSF component of CSF/HDPE composites is highly susceptible to fungal attacks, with the soft rot fungus inducing the largest mass losses, followed by the white rot fungus, and then the brown rot fungus. PMID:28773150

Nasal lavage, blood or sputum: Which is best for phenotyping asthma?

PubMed

de Farias, Camyla F; Amorim, Maria M F; Dracoulakis, Michel; Caetano, Lilian B; Santoro, Ilka L; Fernandes, Ana L G

2017-05-01

Determination of asthma phenotypes, particularly inflammatory phenotypes, helps guide treatment and management of this heterogeneous disease. Induced sputum cytology has been the gold standard for determination of inflammatory phenotypes, but sputum induction is fairly invasive and technically challenging. Blood and nasal lavage cytology have been suggested as substitutes, but have not been fully verified. The aim of this study is to determine the accuracy of blood and nasal lavage cytometry as indicators of inflammatory phenotypes in asthma. Clinical evaluation, Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) and spirometry were performed for 121 adult asthma patients, and blood, nasal lavage and induced sputum samples were taken. Eosinophils and neutrophils were counted in three samples from each subject. Inflammatory phenotypes (eosinophilic, neutrophilic, mixed and paucicellular) and cells counts were analysed using Venn diagram and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, respectively. ACQ score, spirometry and bronchodilator response did not differ among subjects with different inflammatory phenotypes. Inflammatory phenotypes defined by nasal lavage cytometry were in better concordance than those defined by blood cell counts with phenotypes determined by sputum cytology, and were significantly correlated with sputum phenotypes. For eosinophilia, nasal lavage cytology showed better accuracy than blood cytology (area under the curve (AUC): 0.89 vs 0.65). For all phenotypes, sensitivity and positive and negative predictive power were higher for nasal lavage cytometry than for blood. Blood cell counts gave a high level of false positives for all inflammatory phenotypes. We recommend nasal lavage cytology over blood cell count as a substitute for sputum cytology to identify inflammatory phenotypes in asthma. © 2016 Asian Pacific Society of Respirology.

Primary position and listing's law in acquired and congenital trochlear nerve palsy.

PubMed

Straumann, Dominik; Steffen, Heimo; Landau, Klara; Bergamin, Oliver; Mudgil, Ananth V; Walker, Mark F; Guyton, David L; Zee, David S

2003-10-01

In ocular kinematics, the primary position (PP) of the eye is defined by the position from which movements do not induce ocular rotations around the line of sight (Helmholtz). PP is mathematically linked to the orientation of Listing's plane. This study was conducted to determine whether PP is affected differently in patients with clinically diagnosed congenital (conTNP) and acquired (acqTNP) trochlear nerve palsy. Patients with unilateral conTNP (n = 25) and acqTNP (n = 9) performed a modified Hess screen test. Three-dimensional eye positions were recorded with dual search coils. PP in eyes with acqTNP was significantly more temporal (mean: 21.2 degrees ) than in eyes with conTNP (6.8 degrees ) or healthy eyes (7.2 degrees ). In the pooled data of all patients, the horizontal location of PP significantly correlated with vertical noncomitance with the paretic eye in adduction (R = 0.59). Using a computer model, PP in acqTNP could be reproduced by a neural lesion of the superior oblique (SO) muscle. An additional simulated overaction of the inferior oblique (IO) muscle moved PP back to normal, as in conTNP. Lengthening the SO and shortening the IO muscles could also simulate PP in conTNP. The temporal displacement of PP in acqTNP is a direct consequence of the reduced force of the SO muscle. The reversal of this temporal displacement of PP, which occurs in some patients with conTNP, can be explained by a secondary overaction of the IO muscle. Alternatively, length changes in the SO and IO muscles, or other anatomic anomalies within the orbit, without a neural lesion, may also explain the difference in location of PP between conTNP and acqTNP.

Real-life effectiveness of budesonide/formoterol maintenance and reliever therapy in asthma patients across Asia: SMARTASIA study.

PubMed

Zhong, Nanshan; Lin, Jiangtao; Mehta, Parthiv; Ngamjanyaporn, Pintip; Wu, Tzu-Chin; Yunus, Faisal

2013-04-04

The use of budesonide/formoterol in a single inhaler for both maintenance and reliever therapy is a recommended option for treatment of persistent asthma not responding well to inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) alone. This was a multi-centre open-label study on patients whose asthma condition remained inadequately controlled by various asthma treatments other than budesonide/formoterol. After a 2-week run-in period, eligible patients underwent a 12-week treatment period with budesonide/formoterol (Symbicort SMART(®), 160/4.5 μg) twice daily plus as needed. Patient's asthma control and quality of life were assessed using the 5-item Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ-5) and the standardized Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (AQLQ-S), respectively. A total of 862 eligible asthma patients who have had asthma for a mean duration of 10.73 ± 12.03 years entered a 12-week treatment with budesonide/formoterol maintenance and reliever therapy. During treatment, ACQ-5 score improved significantly by 0.58 ± 0.93 (95% CI, 0.51 to 0.64, P < 0.0001) from the baseline level of 1.62 ± 1.00. AQLQ(S) score improved by 0.70 ± 0.89 (95% CI, 0.64 to 0.76, P < 0.0001) from baseline. Asthma symptom score was also reduced significantly (P < 0.0001); between run-in and treatment periods, night- and day-time symptom scores were reduced by 0.32 ± 0.54 (95% CI, 0.28 to 0.35) and 0.30 ± 0.52 (95% CI, 0.27 to 0.34), respectively. The percentage of nights with awakenings due to asthma symptoms was reduced by 11.09 ± 26.13% (95% CI, 9.34 to 12.85%), while the percentage of asthma-control and symptom-free days increased by 20.90 ± 34.40% (95% CI, 18.59 to 23.21%) and 23.89 ± 34.62% (95% CI, 21.56 to 26.21%), respectively (P < 0.0001). Together with the improvement in asthma control, the number of night- and day-time inhalations of as-needed reliever medication decreased by 0.30 ± 0.82 (95% CI, 0.24 to 0.35) inhalations and 0.30 ± 0.97 (95% CI, 0.23 to 0.36) inhalations, respectively (P < 0.0001). No unexpected adverse events were reported. During treatment of inadequately controlled asthmatic patients with budesonide/formoterol maintenance and reliever therapy, significant improvement in patients' asthma control and reductions in asthma symptoms and as-needed medication use was observed. Patients' quality of life was improved and the treatment was well tolerated. ClinicalTrial.gov: (NCT00939341).

Corrosion avoidance with new wood preservatives

Treesearch

Samuel L. Zelinka; Douglas R. Rammer

2006-01-01

The increased use of alkaline copper quaternary (ACQ) and copper azole (CuAz) as wood preservatives for residential construction has led to concerns about the corrosion performance of fasteners. Information on the effects of these preservatives on the corrosion rate is limited, although Simpson Strong Tie has published a technical bulletin indicating that both ACQ and...

Fungal and bacterial community succession differs for three wood types during decay in a forest soil.

PubMed

Prewitt, Lynn; Kang, Youngmin; Kakumanu, Madhavi L; Williams, Mark

2014-08-01

Wood decomposition by soil microorganisms is vital to carbon and nutrient cycles of forested ecosystems. Different wood types decompose at different rates; however, it is not known if there are differences in microbial community succession associated with the decay of different wood types. In this study, the microbial community associated with the decay of pine (decay-susceptible wood), western red cedar (decay resistant) and ACQ-treated pine (Ammoniacal Copper Quaternary, preservative-treated pine for decay resistance) in forest soil was characterized using DNA sequencing, phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) analysis, and microbial activity over a 26-month period. Bray-Curtis ordination using an internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequence and PLFA data indicated that fungal communities changed during succession and that wood type altered the pattern of succession. Nondecay fungi decreased over the 26 months of succession; however, by 18 months of decay, there was a major shift in the fungal communities. By this time, Trametes elegans dominated cedar and Phlebia radiata dominated pine and ACQ-treated pine. The description of PLFA associated with ACQ-treated pine resembled cedar more than pine; however, both PLFA and ITS descriptions indicated that fungal communities associated with ACQ-treated pine were less dynamic, perhaps a result of the inhibition by the ACQ preservative, compared with pine and cedar. Overall, fungal community composition and succession were associated with wood type. Further research into the differences in community composition will help to discern their functional importance to wood decay.

Characteristics and outcomes of older adults with long-standing versus late-onset asthma.

PubMed

Herscher, Michael L; Wisnivesky, Juan P; Busse, Paula J; Hanania, Nicola A; Sheng, Tianyun; Wolf, Michael S; Federman, Alex D

2017-04-01

To examine the effect of age of onset on clinical characteristics and outcomes in a cohort of older patients with long-standing (LSA) and late-onset asthma (LOA). In all, 452 patients 60 years of age and older with persistent asthma were recruited. We defined LOA as asthma developing at age 40 or later and LSA as developing before age 40. We compared airway obstruction as assessed by spirometry, as well as asthma control using the Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ), quality of life using the Mini Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (AQLQ), and asthma-related emergency department visits and hospitalizations among patients with LSA vs. LOA. Patients with LOA, were less likely to have FEV 1 <70% of predicted (23% vs. 40%, p = 0.0002), to have FEV 1 /FVC<0.7 (27% vs. 38%, p = 0.01), or to have been intubated in the past (5% vs. 14%, p = 0.0007), and were also less likely to report a history of allergic conditions (64% vs 76%, p = 0.007). There was no significant difference in the level of asthma control, quality of life, or health care utilization. Older adults with LOA have different clinical and physiological characteristics and outcomes compared to those with LSA. Some of these differences may represent sequelae of longstanding disease, however LOA may also represent a different clinical phenotype that could influence management approaches.

COS NUV Target Acquisition Monitor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Penton, Steven V.

2017-08-01

Visits PA, BA, & BB of this program verify all ACQ/IMAGE mode co-alignments by bootstrapping from PSA+MIRRORA. The assumption, which should be tested at some point, is that the PSA+MIRRORA WCA-to-PSA FSW offsets are still as accurate in defining the center of the PSA relative to the WCA as there were in SMOV. The details of the observations are given is the observing section.Visit PB was an on-hold contingency visit in case, for whatever reason, visit 2A of 14452, did not execute as planned in the fall of 2017. This program was replaced with a better program for aligning the FGGs so we needed to activate this visit to obtain the PSA/MIRRORA to PSA/MIRRORB ACQ/IMAGE alignment. Visit BA of this program takes back-to-back PSA/MIRRORB & BOA/MIRRORA ACQ/Images and images (with flashes) and also takes G230L, G285M as well as FUV LP3 G130M and G140L spectra to test the WCA-to-PSA offsets.Visit BB of this program takes back-to-back BOA/MIRRORA & BOA/MIRRORB ACQ/Images and images (with flashes) and also takes G225M, G185M, and FUV LP3 G160M spectra to test the WCA-to-PSA offsets. Visit BA of this program bootstraps off VIsit PB to co-align the PSA+MIRRORB ACQ/IMAGE mode to the BOA+MIRRORA. Visit BB of this program follows the style of Visit BA and bootstraps from the BOA+MIRRORA mode to the BOA+MIRRORB TA imaging mode. In all visits, lamp+target images are taken before and after the TA imaging mode that is being co-aligned (the second ACQ/IMAGE of the program.)All visits in this program are single orbit visits. This program is very similar to the NUV portion of the C24 version (14857). This program differs from the Cycle 23 version in that Visit PB (the old Visit 03) has been permanently upgraded from contingency to operational status. NOTE: Beginning with Cycle 25. ALL FUV exposures in this program have been moved to a separate monitoring program. This program will sequentially test the XD accuracy of FUV LP4 spectra. As needed, NUV ACQ/IMAGEs will reset the centering between grating tests.

Mepolizumab treatment in patients with severe eosinophilic asthma.

PubMed

Ortega, Hector G; Liu, Mark C; Pavord, Ian D; Brusselle, Guy G; FitzGerald, J Mark; Chetta, Alfredo; Humbert, Marc; Katz, Lynn E; Keene, Oliver N; Yancey, Steven W; Chanez, Pascal

2014-09-25

Some patients with severe asthma have frequent exacerbations associated with persistent eosinophilic inflammation despite continuous treatment with high-dose inhaled glucocorticoids with or without oral glucocorticoids. In this randomized, double-blind, double-dummy study, we assigned 576 patients with recurrent asthma exacerbations and evidence of eosinophilic inflammation despite high doses of inhaled glucocorticoids to one of three study groups. Patients were assigned to receive mepolizumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody against interleukin-5, which was administered as either a 75-mg intravenous dose or a 100-mg subcutaneous dose, or placebo every 4 weeks for 32 weeks. The primary outcome was the rate of exacerbations. Other outcomes included the forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and scores on the St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) and the 5-item Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ-5). Safety was also assessed. The rate of exacerbations was reduced by 47% (95% confidence interval [CI], 29 to 61) among patients receiving intravenous mepolizumab and by 53% (95% CI, 37 to 65) among those receiving subcutaneous mepolizumab, as compared with those receiving placebo (P<0.001 for both comparisons). Exacerbations necessitating an emergency department visit or hospitalization were reduced by 32% in the group receiving intravenous mepolizumab and by 61% in the group receiving subcutaneous mepolizumab. At week 32, the mean increase from baseline in FEV1 was 100 ml greater in patients receiving intravenous mepolizumab than in those receiving placebo (P=0.02) and 98 ml greater in patients receiving subcutaneous mepolizumab than in those receiving placebo (P=0.03). The improvement from baseline in the SGRQ score was 6.4 points and 7.0 points greater in the intravenous and subcutaneous mepolizumab groups, respectively, than in the placebo group (minimal clinically important change, 4 points), and the improvement in the ACQ-5 score was 0.42 points and 0.44 points greater in the two mepolizumab groups, respectively, than in the placebo group (minimal clinically important change, 0.5 points) (P<0.001 for all comparisons). The safety profile of mepolizumab was similar to that of placebo. Mepolizumab administered either intravenously or subcutaneously significantly reduced asthma exacerbations and was associated with improvements in markers of asthma control. (Funded by GlaxoSmithKline; MENSA ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01691521.).

Technical Services and the World Wide Web.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Scheschy, Virginia M.

The World Wide Web and browsers such as Netscape and Mosaic have simplified access to electronic resources. Today, technical services librarians can share in the wealth of information available on the Web. One of the premier Web sites for acquisitions librarians is AcqWeb, a cousin of the AcqNet listserv. In addition to interesting news items,…

Moisture meter calibrations for untreated and ACQ-treated southern yellow pine lumber and plywood

Treesearch

C.R. Boardman; Samuel V. Glass; Charles G. Carll

2011-01-01

This study investigates the effects of alkaline copper quaternary (ACQ) preservative treatment and of plywood glue lines on resistance-based moisture content (MC) measurements. Moisture meter readings using stainless steel screws as electrodes were acquired over a range of moisture conditions in Southern Yellow Pine (SYP) lumber and plywood. Calibration equations are...

2007-2008 Weapon Systems

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-01-01

240 Tactical Operations Center ( TOC ) .......................................................................242 Tactical Unmanned Aerial...4QFY06: CHS-3 contract transferred from AMCOM Acq Ctr to CECOM Acq Ctr as a result of the PD CHS move from PM TOCs /AMDCCS to PM TRCS in FY06...SALES None CONTRACTORS IRB Bays manufacturer: General Dynamics Santa Barbara Sistemas (Kaiserslautern, Germany) Logistic support: AM General (Livonia, MI

Adhesive bonding of wood treated with ACQ and copper azole preservatives

Treesearch

Linda F. Lorenz; Charles Frihart

2006-01-01

Treated wood has generally been more difficult to bond than untreated wood for a variety of reasons. Alkaline copper quat (ACQ) and copper azole (CA-B), the most prominent substitutes for chromated copper arsenate (CCA), are difficult to bond consistently. Using a phenol-resorcinol- formaldehyde (PRF) adhesive formulated for bonding to CCA-treated wood, we examined the...

A preliminary study of preservative retention and penetration in ACQ-treated timbers using near infrared spectroscopy

Treesearch

Chi-Leung So; Thomas L. Eberhardt; Stan T. Lebow; Leslie H. Groom

2006-01-01

Near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy has been previously used in our laboratory to predict copper, chromium, and arsenic levels in samples of chromated copper arsenate (CCA)-treated wood. In the present study, we utilized our custom-made NIR scanning system, NIRVANA (near infrared visual and automated numerical analysis), to scan cross sections of ACQ (alkaline copper quat...

The effects of combining Web-based eHealth with telephone nurse case management for pediatric asthma control: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Gustafson, David; Wise, Meg; Bhattacharya, Abhik; Pulvermacher, Alice; Shanovich, Kathleen; Phillips, Brenda; Lehman, Erik; Chinchilli, Vernon; Hawkins, Robert; Kim, Jee-Seon

2012-07-26

Asthma is the most common pediatric illness in the United States, burdening low-income and minority families disproportionately and contributing to high health care costs. Clinic-based asthma education and telephone case management have had mixed results on asthma control, as have eHealth programs and online games. To test the effects of (1) CHESS+CM, a system for parents and children ages 4-12 years with poorly controlled asthma, on asthma control and medication adherence, and (2) competence, self-efficacy, and social support as mediators. CHESS+CM included a fully automated eHealth component (Comprehensive Health Enhancement Support System [CHESS]) plus monthly nurse case management (CM) via phone. CHESS, based on self-determination theory, was designed to improve competence, social support, and intrinsic motivation of parents and children. We identified eligible parent-child dyads from files of managed care organizations in Madison and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA, sent them recruitment letters, and randomly assigned them (unblinded) to a control group of treatment as usual plus asthma information or to CHESS+CM. Asthma control was measured by the Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) and self-reported symptom-free days. Medication adherence was a composite of pharmacy refill data and medication taking. Social support, information competence, and self-efficacy were self-assessed in questionnaires. All data were collected at 0, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. Asthma diaries kept during a 3-week run-in period before randomization provided baseline data. Of 305 parent-child dyads enrolled, 301 were randomly assigned, 153 to the control group and 148 to CHESS+CM. Most parents were female (283/301, 94%), African American (150/301, 49.8%), and had a low income as indicated by child's Medicaid status (154/301, 51.2%); 146 (48.5%) were single and 96 of 301 (31.9%) had a high school education or less. Completion rates were 127 of 153 control group dyads (83.0%) and 132 of 148 CHESS+CM group dyads (89.2%). CHESS+CM group children had significantly better asthma control on the ACQ (d = -0.31, 95% confidence limits [CL] -0.56, -0.06, P = .011), but not as measured by symptom-free days (d = 0.18, 95% CL -0.88, 1.60, P = 1.00). The composite adherence scores did not differ significantly between groups (d = 1.48%, 95% CL -8.15, 11.11, P = .76). Social support was a significant mediator for CHESS+CM's effect on asthma control (alpha = .200, P = .01; beta = .210, P = .03). Self-efficacy was not significant (alpha = .080, P = .14; beta = .476, P = .01); neither was information competence (alpha = .079, P = .09; beta = .063, P = .64). Integrating telephone case management with eHealth benefited pediatric asthma control, though not medication adherence. Improved methods of measuring medication adherence are needed. Social support appears to be more effective than information in improving pediatric asthma control. Clinicaltrials.gov NCT00214383; http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00214383 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/68OVwqMPz).

Partial dissolution of ACQ-treated wood in lithium chloride/N-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone: Separation of copper from potential lignocellulosic feedstocks

Treesearch

Thomas L. Eberhardt; Stan Lebow; Karen G. Reed

2012-01-01

A cellulose solvent system based on lithium chloride (LiCl) in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone (NMP) was used to assess the merits of partial dissolutions of coarsely ground wood samples. Alkaline Copper Quaternary (ACQ)-treated pine wood was of particular interest for treatment given the potential to generate a copper- rich stream apart from solid and/or liquid...

Application of Model-based Systems Engineering Methods to Development of Combat System Architectures

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-04-22

Spt: Chacon , Hoang, Matela, Sarabia Supportability *Carpenter, Banner-Bacin, Chacon , Kinberg M&S Across Acq Manz Independent Kang, Chandler Advisor M...W entland SW / O A *W entland, Sysavath; Spt: Carpenter, Sung, Mend iola M&S/CORE *Pham , Kong, Va ldez, Vasquez; Spt: Chacon , Hoang, Matela...Sarabia Supportability *Carpenter, Banner-Bacin, Chacon , Kinberg M&S Across Acq Manz Independent Kang, Chandler Advisor M Green Capstone Architect

Real-life effectiveness of budesonide/formoterol maintenance and reliever therapy in asthma patients across Asia: SMARTASIA study

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background The use of budesonide/formoterol in a single inhaler for both maintenance and reliever therapy is a recommended option for treatment of persistent asthma not responding well to inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) alone. Methods This was a multi-centre open-label study on patients whose asthma condition remained inadequately controlled by various asthma treatments other than budesonide/formoterol. After a 2-week run-in period, eligible patients underwent a 12-week treatment period with budesonide/formoterol (Symbicort SMART®, 160/4.5 μg) twice daily plus as needed. Patient’s asthma control and quality of life were assessed using the 5-item Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ-5) and the standardized Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (AQLQ-S), respectively. Results A total of 862 eligible asthma patients who have had asthma for a mean duration of 10.73 ± 12.03 years entered a 12-week treatment with budesonide/formoterol maintenance and reliever therapy. During treatment, ACQ-5 score improved significantly by 0.58 ± 0.93 (95% CI, 0.51 to 0.64, P < 0.0001) from the baseline level of 1.62 ± 1.00. AQLQ(S) score improved by 0.70 ± 0.89 (95% CI, 0.64 to 0.76, P < 0.0001) from baseline. Asthma symptom score was also reduced significantly (P < 0.0001); between run-in and treatment periods, night- and day-time symptom scores were reduced by 0.32 ± 0.54 (95% CI, 0.28 to 0.35) and 0.30 ± 0.52 (95% CI, 0.27 to 0.34), respectively. The percentage of nights with awakenings due to asthma symptoms was reduced by 11.09 ± 26.13% (95% CI, 9.34 to 12.85%), while the percentage of asthma-control and symptom-free days increased by 20.90 ± 34.40% (95% CI, 18.59 to 23.21%) and 23.89 ± 34.62% (95% CI, 21.56 to 26.21%), respectively (P < 0.0001). Together with the improvement in asthma control, the number of night- and day-time inhalations of as-needed reliever medication decreased by 0.30 ± 0.82 (95% CI, 0.24 to 0.35) inhalations and 0.30 ± 0.97 (95% CI, 0.23 to 0.36) inhalations, respectively (P < 0.0001). No unexpected adverse events were reported. Conclusion During treatment of inadequately controlled asthmatic patients with budesonide/formoterol maintenance and reliever therapy, significant improvement in patients’ asthma control and reductions in asthma symptoms and as-needed medication use was observed. Patients’ quality of life was improved and the treatment was well tolerated. Trial registration ClinicalTrial.gov: (NCT00939341) PMID:23557023

Lansoprazole for children with poorly controlled asthma: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Holbrook, Janet T; Wise, Robert A; Gold, Benjamin D; Blake, Kathryn; Brown, Ellen D; Castro, Mario; Dozor, Allen J; Lima, John J; Mastronarde, John G; Sockrider, Marianna M; Teague, W Gerald

2012-01-25

Asymptomatic gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is prevalent in children with asthma. Untreated GER has been postulated to be a cause of inadequate asthma control in children despite inhaled corticosteroid treatment, but it is not known whether treatment with proton pump inhibitors improves asthma control. To determine whether lansoprazole is effective in reducing asthma symptoms in children without overt GER. The Study of Acid Reflux in Children With Asthma, a randomized, masked, placebo-controlled, parallel clinical trial that compared lansoprazole with placebo in children with poor asthma control who were receiving inhaled corticosteroid treatment. Three hundred six participants enrolled from April 2007 to September 2010 at 19 US academic clinical centers were followed up for 24 weeks. A subgroup had an esophageal pH study before randomization. Participating children were randomly assigned to receive either lansoprazole, 15 mg/d if weighing less than 30 kg or 30 mg/d if weighing 30 kg or more (n = 149), or placebo (n = 157). The primary outcome measure was change in Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) score (range, 0-6; a 0.5-unit change is considered clinically meaningful). Secondary outcome measures included lung function measures, asthma-related quality of life, and episodes of poor asthma control. The mean age was 11 years (SD, 3 years). The mean difference in change (lansoprazole minus placebo) in the ACQ score was 0.2 units (95% CI, 0.0-0.3 units). There were no statistically significant differences in the mean difference in change for the secondary outcomes of forced expiratory volume in the first second (0.0 L; 95% CI, -0.1 to 0.1 L), asthma-related quality of life (-0.1; 95% CI, -0.3 to 0.1), or rate of episodes of poor asthma control (relative risk, 1.2; 95% CI, 0.9-1.5). Among the 115 children with esophageal pH studies, the prevalence of GER was 43%. In the subgroup with a positive pH study, no treatment effect for lansoprazole vs placebo was observed for any asthma outcome. Children treated with lansoprazole reported more respiratory infections (relative risk, 1.3 [95% CI, 1.1-1.6]). In this trial of children with poorly controlled asthma without symptoms of GER who were using inhaled corticosteroids, the addition of lansoprazole, compared with placebo, improved neither symptoms nor lung function but was associated with increased adverse events. clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT00442013.

COS LP4 FUV Target Acquisition Enabling and Verification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Penton, Steven V.

2016-10-01

This LP4 program is designed to verify the ability of the LV0058/LV0059 COS FSW to place an isolated point source at the center of the PSA, using FUV dispersed light target acquisition (TA) for COS (LP4-TA-COS). Tests will be performed for all 3 FUV TA modes (ACQ/SEARCH, ACQ/PEAKD, and ACQ/PEAKXD). It is sufficient to test ACQ/SEARCH and ACQ/PEAKD with only one grating, but all three FUV gratings need to be tested for the new (as of LV0054) ACQ/PEAKXD with NUM_POS>1 (also known internally, and in the spt files, as OPMODE=ACQ/PEAKD(XD) at the Fourth Lifetime Position (LP4). This program is modeled after the LP2 and LP3 versions of this program; 12797 and 13636.This program has specific visits to test each portion of the FUV spectroscopic TA process. Visits 01-05 will use the target AV18, while Visit 06 will observe (WD1657+343). Both targets are visible year round. For the LP4 enabling, several improvements to APT, the ground system, and the flight software (FSW) have greatly simplified the enabling process. There are now no non-standard exposures, or special commanding, in this program.Specifically; 1) We now use the LIFETIME-POS = LP4 functionality in APT & FSW to specify the LP. The old procedure of using LIFETIME-POS ="ALTERNATE" has been removed. FUV LPs are now called out by number (e.g., LP4). 2) We will be using the new NUM_POS > 1 PEAKXD algorithm at LP4 due to large geometric distortions (GD) at the "Y" detector positions of LP4. FUVA is particularly affected by GD rendering the old PEAKXD algorithm unable to center a target to the required XD accuracy at LP4. 3) Numerous FSW Patchable constants that were essential for PEAKXD operations at previous LPs are no longer required. These are the WCA-to-PSA offsets and XD plate-scales. Like PEAKD, the NUM_POS > 1 PEAKXD requires no patchable constant updates. At previous LPs, numerous updates to the patchable constants were required, this is not necessary for LP4 TA enabling.Prior to the submission of this program, all LP4 SIAF, aperture mechanism positions, TA subarrays, and grating foci have been appropriately installed (SMS2017.058). Visits 01-05 will test these parameters and a further update will be initiated, if required. The FSW at the beginning of this program is the patch updated LV0058. Between Visits 02 and 03 of thisprogram, LV0059 will be installed. This was instaled on May 8, 2017. Visits 03-06 will be executed using LV0059.Visit 01 tests ACQ/SEARCH and Visit 02 tests ACQ/PEAKD using the G130M grating. Visit 01 uses the C1291 cenwave as this produces the widest in XD (tallest) spectrum of any cenwave for which TA is allowed that fully covers both detector segments. Visit 02 uses the C1327 cenwave as this is the most different of the TA enabled G130M cenwaves. Visit 03-05 test ACQ/PEAKXD in its new NUM_POS > 1 form for each of the FUV gratings. This extension of the ACQ/PEAKD algorithm in the cross-dispersion direction (XD) has been available in the FSW since LV0054 and was put in place to handle the much larger geometric distortions found in the LP4 detector regions. Visit 03 tests ACQ/PEAKXD with the widest in XD (tallest) G130M cenwave, C1291. Visit 04 tests ACQ/PEAKXD with G160M/1600 and Visit 05 uses G140L/1280.Finally, Visit 06 tests all of the TA modes together, in combination, on a separate target (WD1657+343). This visit should be the first FUV Spectroscopic TA executed at LP4.The specific details of the testing of each visit are given in the Observing Description section and in the visit level comments.Visit 01 of this program (the ACQ/SEARCH test) will provide an initial test of the TA subarrays and SIAF entries. If needed, the subarrays and/or the SIAF entries will be adjusted before the execution of Visit 02. For this reason, Visit 02 is configured to execute 4-5 weeks after Visit 01.Visit 02 of this program (14907), the ACQ/PEAKD test, will verify and further test any updates that result from the Visit 01 analysis. In particular, this visit will test the TA subarrays during large along-dispersion AD offsets and provide the G130M AD plate scales.Visits 03-05 (the ACQ/PEAKXD tests) will further test the TA subarrays with large XD offsets and provide XD plate scales and WCA-to-PSA offsets for each FUV grating. (APT25.2.2)Visits 01 and 02 will occur before APT25.2 will be released ( June 2017) and will therefore not test the entire LP4 system end-to-end. APT25.2 exposes the new ACQ/PEAKXD to GOs and contains defaults suitable for LP4 FUV TAs. Visits 03-05 can execute as early as 4-5 weeks after Visit 02. However, we must test APT25.2, its associated TRANS, ground system commanding, and LV0059 using its new NUM_POS and STEP_SIZE in this program. We prefer to test this with all 3 FUV gratings and therefore require that Visits 03-05 should execute using the full APT25.2.2 configuration.Prior to Visit 06, LV0059 and APT25.2 must have been installed and the official switch to LP4 operations must have occurred. We request that Visit 06 be the first FUV Spectroscopic TA executed at LP4 and no other FUV spectroscopic TAs should occur for at least two weeks after the move to LP4 to ensure that LP4 spectroscopic TAs are working properly end-to-end from APT-to-archive.NUV imaging TAs are used to determine the correct (and initial) desired locations for LP4 FUV spectra.Note that the ETC runs here were made using ETC 25.1.1 and are therefore valid for Summer 2017. Some TDS drop may have occurred before these visits execute, but we have plenty of counts to do what we need to do in this program.Each visit intentionally moves the target in the AD or XD, using POS-TARGs, and with targets that are offset in RA and DEC. The RA/DEC target offsets are required for testing the accuracy of the TA, while the POS-TARGs are useful for determining the plate scales and validating the TA subarrays. In order for the targets to be offset correctly in AD and/or XD, the RA and DEC target offsets are tied to a Visit-specific orientation. These orientation requirements produce visits which are only valid for an 10-day window. Should a visit get delayed, new target RA and DEC offsets and orients must be re-calculated and the program re-submitted. Visit specific offsets and orientations are discussed in the visit level comments.

Community analysis of preservative-treated southern pine (Pinus spp.) using terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism (T-RFLP) analysis. Part 1: Fungal field study

Treesearch

Grant T. Kirker; M. Lynn Prewitt; Tor P. Schultz; Susan V. Dieh

2012-01-01

The effects of chlorothalonil (CTN), butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), and ammoniacal copper quat (ACQ-C) on the fungal community on southern yellow pine (SYP) were assessed using terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism (T-RFLP) analysis over 15 months. Field stakes, treated with 0.25 and 0.37 % ACQ-C, 0.1 and 0.25 % CTN, 2 % BHT alone, 0.1 and 0.25 % CTN...

An Automated Acquisition System for Media Exploitation

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-06-01

on the acquisition station, AcqMan will pull out the SHA256 image hash, and the device’s model, serial number, and manufacturer. 2. Query the ADOMEX...Repository Using the data collected above, AcqMan will query the ADOMEX repository. The ADOMEX repository will respond to the query with the SHA256 ’s of...whose SHA256s do not match. The last category will be a list of images that the ADOMEX repository already has and that the acquisition station can

AIE Polymers: Synthesis, Properties, and Biological Applications.

PubMed

Zhan, Ruoyu; Pan, Yutong; Manghnani, Purnima Naresh; Liu, Bin

2017-05-01

Aggregation-caused quenching (ACQ) is a general phenomenon that is faced by traditional fluorescent polymers. Aggregation-induced emission (AIE) is exactly opposite to ACQ. AIE molecules are almost nonemissive in their molecularly dissolved state, but they can be induced to show high fluorescence in the aggregated or solid state. Incorporation of AIE phenomenon into polymer design has yielded various polymers with AIE characteristics. In this review, the recent progress of AIE polymers for biological applications is summarized. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Exposure test of fasteners in preservative-treated wood

Treesearch

Samuel L. Zelinka; Douglas R. Rammer

2006-01-01

This study examined nails and screws exposed to ACQ-treated wood for up to 12 months in a controlled environment. The environment (27ºC, 100% relative humidity) was chosen so that comparisons could be made with previous exposure tests run using CCA-treated wood in the same environment. Five types of fasteners (common 8d nail, hot-dipped galvanized 8d nail, 4d aluminum...

Baseline heartbeat perception accuracy and short-term outcome of brief cognitive-behaviour therapy for panic disorder with agoraphobia.

PubMed

Masdrakis, Vasilios G; Legaki, Emilia-Maria; Vaidakis, Nikolaos; Ploumpidis, Dimitrios; Soldatos, Constantin R; Papageorgiou, Charalambos; Papadimitriou, George N; Oulis, Panagiotis

2015-07-01

Increased heartbeat perception accuracy (HBP-accuracy) may contribute to the pathogenesis of Panic Disorder (PD) without or with Agoraphobia (PDA). Extant research suggests that HBP-accuracy is a rather stable individual characteristic, moreover predictive of worse long-term outcome in PD/PDA patients. However, it remains still unexplored whether HBP-accuracy adversely affects patients' short-term outcome after structured cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) for PD/PDA. To explore the potential association between HBP-accuracy and the short-term outcome of a structured brief-CBT for the acute treatment of PDA. We assessed baseline HBP-accuracy using the "mental tracking" paradigm in 25 consecutive medication-free, CBT-naive PDA patients. Patients then underwent a structured, protocol-based, 8-session CBT by the same therapist. Outcome measures included the number of panic attacks during the past week, the Agoraphobic Cognitions Questionnaire (ACQ), and the Mobility Inventory-Alone subscale (MI-alone). No association emerged between baseline HBP-accuracy and posttreatment changes concerning number of panic attacks. Moreover, higher baseline HBP-accuracy was associated with significantly larger reductions in the scores of the ACQ and the MI-alone scales. Our results suggest that in PDA patients undergoing structured brief-CBT for the acute treatment of their symptoms, higher baseline HBP-accuracy is not associated with worse short-term outcome concerning panic attacks. Furthermore, higher baseline HBP-accuracy may be associated with enhanced therapeutic gains in agoraphobic cognitions and behaviours.

InternationaL cross-sectIonAl and longItudinal assessment on aSthma cONtrol in European adult patients - the LIAISON study protocol

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background According to international guidelines, the goal of asthma management is to achieve and maintain control of the disease, which can be assessed using composite measures. Prospective studies are required to determine how these measures are associated with asthma outcomes and/or future risk. The ‘InternationaL cross-sectIonAl and longItudinal assessment on aSthma cONtrol (LIAISON)’ observational study has been designed to evaluate asthma control and its determinants, including components of asthma management. Methods/design The LIAISON study will be conducted in 12 European countries and comprises a cross-sectional phase and a 12-month prospective phase. Both phases will aim at assessing asthma control (six-item Asthma Control Questionnaire, ACQ), asthma-related quality of life (Mini Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire, Mini-AQLQ), risk of non-adherence to treatment (four-item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale, MMAS-4), potential reasons for poor control, treatment strategies and associated healthcare costs. The cross-sectional phase will recruit > 8,000 adult patients diagnosed with asthma for at least 6 months and receiving the same asthma treatment in the 4 weeks before enrolment. The prospective phase will include all patients with uncontrolled/poorly controlled asthma at the initial visit to assess the proportion reaching control during follow-up and to examine predictors of future risk. Visits will take place after 3, 6 and 12 months. Discussion The LIAISON study will provide important information on the prevalence of asthma control and on the quality of life in a broad spectrum of real-life patient populations from different European countries and will also contribute to evaluate differences in management strategies and their impact on healthcare costs over 12 months of observation. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov identifier, NCT01567280. PMID:23530817

Effects of pramipexole on the acquisition of responding with opioid-conditioned reinforcement in the rat

PubMed Central

Bertz, Jeremiah W.; Chen, Jianyong; Woods, James H.

2014-01-01

Rationale Dopamine D3 receptor-preferring ligands may be able to modify the conditioned reinforcing effects of drug-associated stimuli. In evaluating the effects of these compounds, it is important to clarify the extent to which responding depends on (1) conditioned reinforcement vs. other behavioral mechanisms and (2) dopamine D3 vs. D2 receptor activity. Objectives Use behaviorally stringent new-response acquisition procedures to characterize the effects of the D3-preferring agonist, pramipexole, on the conditioned reinforcing effects of a stimulus paired with the opioid agonist, remifentanil. Methods First, in Pavlovian conditioning (PAV) sessions, rats received response-independent IV injections of remifentanil and presentations of a light–noise stimulus. In separate groups, injections and stimuli either always co-occurred (“paired PAV”) or occurred with no consistent relationship (“random PAV” control). Next, in instrumental acquisition (ACQ) sessions, all animals could respond in two nose-poke manipulanda: an active nose-poke, which produced the stimulus alone, or an inactive nose-poke. Pramipexole was injected SC prior to ACQ sessions with or without pretreatments of the D3-preferring antagonist, SB-277011A, or the dopamine D2-preferring antagonist, L-741,626. Results After paired PAV, but not random PAV, rats acquired nose-poke responding during ACQ (i.e., active > inactive). Pramipexole dose-dependently increased active responding without changing inactive responding. Pramipexole-induced increases in responding were blocked by pretreatment with L-741,626, but not SB-277011A. Conclusions Pramipexole specifically enhanced remifentanil-conditioned reinforcement: active responding was selectively increased only after the stimulus was paired with remifentanil. Although pramipexole is D3-preferring, the antagonist effects obtained presently suggest an important role for the D2 receptor in opiod-conditioned reinforcement. PMID:24985891

Direct costs of asthma in Brazil: a comparison between controlled and uncontrolled asthmatic patients.

PubMed

Santos, L A; Oliveira, M A; Faresin, S M; Santoro, I L; Fernandes, A L G

2007-07-01

Asthma is a common chronic illness that imposes a heavy burden on all aspects of the patient's life, including personal and health care cost expenditures. To analyze the direct cost associated to uncontrolled asthma patients, a cross-sectional study was conducted to determine costs related to patients with uncontrolled and controlled asthma. Uncontrolled patient was defined by daytime symptoms more than twice a week or nocturnal symptoms during two consecutive nights or any limitations of activities, or need for relief rescue medication more than twice a week, and an ACQ score less than 2 points. A questionnaire about direct cost stratification in health services, including emergency room visits, hospitalization, ambulatory visits, and asthma medications prescribed, was applied. Ninety asthma patients were enrolled (45 uncontrolled/45 controlled). Uncontrolled asthmatics accounted for higher health care expenditures than controlled patients, US$125.45 and US$15.58, respectively [emergency room visits (US$39.15 vs US$2.70) and hospitalization (US$86.30 vs US$12.88)], per patient over 6 months. The costs with medications in the last month for patients with mild, moderate and severe asthma were US$1.60, 9.60, and 25.00 in the uncontrolled patients, respectively, and US$6.50, 19.00 and 49.00 in the controlled patients. In view of the small proportion of uncontrolled subjects receiving regular maintenance medication (22.2%) and their lack of resources, providing free medication for uncontrolled patients might be a cost-effective strategy for the public health system.

Anticholinergic vs Long-Acting β-Agonist in Combination With Inhaled Corticosteroids in Black Adults With Asthma: The BELT Randomized Clinical Trial.

PubMed

Wechsler, Michael E; Yawn, Barbara P; Fuhlbrigge, Anne L; Pace, Wilson D; Pencina, Michael J; Doros, Gheorghe; Kazani, Shamsah; Raby, Benjamin A; Lanzillotti, Jane; Madison, Suzanne; Israel, Elliot

2015-10-27

The efficacy and safety of long-acting β-agonists (LABAs) have been questioned. Black populations may be disproportionately affected by LABA risks. To compare the effectiveness and safety of tiotropium vs LABAs, when used with inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) in black adults with asthma and to determine whether allelic variation at the Arg16Gly locus of the β2-adrenergic receptor (ADRB2) geneis associated with treatment response. A multisite (n = 20), open-label, parallel-group, pragmatic randomized clinical trial conducted from March 2011 through July 2013, enrolling black adults with moderate to severe asthma in the United States. Patients eligible for, or receiving, step 3 or step 4 combination therapy per National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute guidelines, received ICS plus either once-daily tiotropium (n = 532) or twice-daily LABAs (n = 538,) and were followed up for up to 18 months. Patients underwent genotyping, attended study visits at baseline, 1, 6, 12, and 18 months, and completed monthly questionnaires. The primary outcome was time to asthma exacerbation, defined as a worsening asthma event requiring oral or parenteral corticosteroids. Secondary outcomes included patient-reported outcomes (Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire, Asthma Control Questionnaire [ACQ], Asthma Symptom Utility Index, and Asthma Symptom-Free Days questionnaire), spirometry (FEV1), rescue medication use, asthma deteriorations, and adverse events. There was no difference between LABA + ICS vs tiotropium + ICS in time to first exacerbation (mean No. of exacerbations/person-year, 0.42 vs 0.37 (rate ratio, 0.90 [95% CI, 0.73 to 1.11], log-rank P = .31). There was no difference in change in FEV1 at 12 months (0.003 L for LABA + ICS vs -0.018 L for tiotropium + ICS; between-group difference, 0.020 [95% CI, -0.021 to 0.061], P = .33) and at 18 months (-0.053 L vs -0.078 L; between-group difference, 0.025 [95% CI, -0.045 to 0.095], P = .49). There were no differences in ACQ score at 18 months (change in score from baseline, -0.68 for LABA + ICS vs -0.72 for tiotropium + ICS; between-group difference, 0.04 [95% CI, -0.18 to 0.27], P = .70). There were no differences in other patient-reported outcomes. Arg16Gly ADRB2 alleles were not associated with differences in the effects of tiotropium + ICS vs LABA + ICS (hazard ratio for time to first exacerbation, 0.84 [95% CI, 0.47 to 1.51] for Arg/Arg vs 0.85 [95% CI, 0.63 to 1.15] for Arg/Gly or Gly/Gly, P = .97). Among black adults with asthma treated with ICS, adding a LABA did not improve time to asthma exacerbation compared with adding tiotropium. These findings were not affected by polymorphisms at the Arg16Gly locus of ADRB2. These findings do not support the superiority of LABA + ICS compared with tiotropium + ICS for black patients with asthma. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01290874.

Maternal avoidance, anxiety cognitions and interactive behaviour predicts infant development at 12 months in the context of anxiety disorders in the postpartum period.

PubMed

Reck, C; Van Den Bergh, B; Tietz, A; Müller, M; Ropeter, A; Zipser, B; Pauen, S

2018-02-01

Few studies have examined the relation between anxiety disorders in the postpartum period and cognitive as well as language development in infancy. This longitudinal study investigated whether anxiety disorder in the postpartum period is linked to infant development at twelve months. A closer look was also taken at a possible link between maternal interaction and infant development. Subjects were videotaped during a Face-to-Face-Still-Face interaction with their infant (M = 4.0 months). Specific maternal anxiety symptoms were measured by self-report questionnaires (Anxiety Cognition Questionnaire (ACQ), Body Sensations Questionnaire (BSQ), Mobility Inventory (MI)) to check for a connection with infant development. The Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development-III (Bayley-III) were used to assess infant language and cognitive development at one year of age. n = 34 mothers with anxiety disorder (SCID-I; DSM-IV) and n = 47 healthy mothers with their infant. Infant performance on Bayley-III language and cognitive scales. Infants of mothers with anxiety disorder yielded significantly lower language scores than infants of controls. No significant group differences were found regarding infant cognitive development. Exploratory analyses revealed the vital role of "maternal avoidance accompanied" in infant language and cognitive development. Maternal neutral engagement, which lacks positive affect and vocalisations, turned out as the strongest negative predictor of cognitive development. Maternal anxiety cognitions and joint activity in mother-infant interaction were the strongest predictors of infant language performance. Results underline the importance to also consider the interaction behaviour of women with anxiety disorders to prevent adverse infant development. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Inc.

[Validation of the German version of the Vertigo Handicap Questionnaire (VHQ) in patients with vestibular vertigo syndromes or somatoform vertigo and dizziness].

PubMed

Tschan, Regine; Wiltink, Jörg; Best, Christoph; Beutel, Manfred; Dieterich, Marianne; Eckhardt-Henn, Annegret

2010-01-01

The Vertigo Handicap Questionnaire (VHQ) by Yardley (1992) assesses physical and psychosocial impairments of vertigo or dizziness. Our study examines the structure, reliability, and aspects of validity of the German version of the VHQ. 98 vestibular vertigo syndromes vs. 90 patients with somatoform vertigo and dizziness were evaluated with the VHQ, symptom severity (VSS), distress (GSI), anxiety and depression (HADS), catastrophizing beliefs (ACQ), fear of body sensations (BSQ), and quality of life (SF-36). For diagnostic classification detailed clinical neurological, neuro-otological and psychosomatic testing were conducted. Principal components analysis identified two factors, which could be confirmed by confirmatory factor analyses: 'handicapped activity'(VHQ-ACT) and 'anxiety' (VHQ-ANX). The VHQ had good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha: 0.92). Test-retest reliability was r = 0.80. We noted close relations between the VHQ, the VSS and measures of emotional distress as aspects of good construct validity. Together with the VSS, the VHQ completes a comprehensive diagnostic screening tool for vertigo or dizziness. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

A Comparison of ACQ, AIE and AEE-Based Polymers Loaded on Polyurethane Foams as Sensors for Explosives Detection.

PubMed

Chu, Zhiwei; Fan, Zhuxin; Zhang, Xiang; Tan, Xiaofeng; Li, Dongxu; Chen, Guohua; Zhao, Qinghua

2018-05-15

An aggregation-caused quenching (ACQ)-active polymer (PF), an aggregation-induced emission (AIE)-active polymer (PFTPE) and an aggregation-enhanced emission (AEE)-active polymer (PTTPE) were synthesized by tetraphenylethane (TPE), fluorene and thiophene moieties. Polyurethane (PU) foams modified by PF, PFTPE and PTTPE, namely PU-PF, PU-PFTPE and PU-PTTPE, using ultrasonication-assisted method have been prepared. A comparative study of PU-PF, PU-PFTPE and PU-PTTPE for detection explosives had been performed, and significant fluorescence quenching was observed with the introduction of PA solutions. The as-prepared PU-PF, PU-PFTPE and PU-PTTPE sensors exhibited a superior sensitivity for PA solutions with different concentrations. Remarkably, PU-PF gave a quenching efficiency of 96.2%, higher than 93.5% for PU-PFTPE and 86.7% for PU-PTTPE at a PA concentration of 180 µg·mL -1 in methanol, which was attributed to the effective energy transfer from the fluorophore (PF) to the nitro explosive (PA). This suggested that some ACQ polymers, applied to detect explosives, could afford better performances than AIE or AEE polymers through modification of structures and selection of adequate carriers. At the same time, these chemical sensors can be recycled many times.

A Comparison of ACQ, AIE and AEE-Based Polymers Loaded on Polyurethane Foams as Sensors for Explosives Detection

PubMed Central

Chu, Zhiwei; Fan, Zhuxin; Zhang, Xiang; Tan, Xiaofeng; Chen, Guohua; Zhao, Qinghua

2018-01-01

An aggregation-caused quenching (ACQ)-active polymer (PF), an aggregation-induced emission (AIE)-active polymer (PFTPE) and an aggregation-enhanced emission (AEE)-active polymer (PTTPE) were synthesized by tetraphenylethane (TPE), fluorene and thiophene moieties. Polyurethane (PU) foams modified by PF, PFTPE and PTTPE, namely PU-PF, PU-PFTPE and PU-PTTPE, using ultrasonication-assisted method have been prepared. A comparative study of PU-PF, PU-PFTPE and PU-PTTPE for detection explosives had been performed, and significant fluorescence quenching was observed with the introduction of PA solutions. The as-prepared PU-PF, PU-PFTPE and PU-PTTPE sensors exhibited a superior sensitivity for PA solutions with different concentrations. Remarkably, PU-PF gave a quenching efficiency of 96.2%, higher than 93.5% for PU-PFTPE and 86.7% for PU-PTTPE at a PA concentration of 180 µg·mL−1 in methanol, which was attributed to the effective energy transfer from the fluorophore (PF) to the nitro explosive (PA). This suggested that some ACQ polymers, applied to detect explosives, could afford better performances than AIE or AEE polymers through modification of structures and selection of adequate carriers. At the same time, these chemical sensors can be recycled many times. PMID:29762497

DC circuits: I. Evidence for fine grained contextual dependence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

John, lgnatius; Allie, Saalih

2017-01-01

This is the first part of a broader study, exploring the contextual variations of the responses of 149 first year (non-physics major) university students at two South African universities in Cape Town. The data analysis was done in terms of the (i) forced choice responses (FCR), (ii) free written responses and (iii) personal interviews. This paper presents the development of the instrument (aspects of circuits questionnaire, or ACQ) used in the exploratory study and the results obtained from the FCR analysis of 60 students. The results showed that the student responses are triggered by the context framed by the questions and the results obtained from investigations using light bulbs cannot be generalised and may be reinterpreted. This article was extracted from the PhD thesis submitted to Faculty of Science, University of Cape Town.

Asthma Control and Sputum Eosinophils: A Longitudinal Study in Daily Practice.

PubMed

Demarche, Sophie F; Schleich, Florence N; Paulus, Virginie A; Henket, Monique A; Van Hees, Thierry J; Louis, Renaud E

Longitudinal trials have suggested that asthma control may be influenced by fluctuations in eosinophilic inflammation. This association has however never been confirmed in daily practice. To investigate the relationship between asthma control and sputum eosinophils in clinical practice. A retrospective longitudinal study was conducted on 187 patients with asthma with at least 2 successful sputum inductions at our Asthma Clinic. Linear mixed models were used to assess the relationship between asthma control and individual changes in sputum eosinophils. Receiver-operating characteristic curves were constructed to define minimal important differences (MIDs) of sputum eosinophils associated with a change of at least 0.5 in Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) score. Then, a validation cohort of 79 patients with asthma was recruited to reassess this relationship and the accuracy of the MID values. A multivariate analysis showed that asthma control was independently associated with individual fluctuations in sputum eosinophil count (P < .001). In patients with intermittent/persistently eosinophilic asthma, we calculated a minimal important decrease of 4.3% in the percentage of sputum eosinophils (area under the curve [AUC], 0.69; P < .001) or 3.4-fold (AUC, 0.65; P = .003) for a significant improvement in asthma control and a minimal important increase of 3.5% (AUC, 0.67; P = .004) or 1.8-fold (AUC, 0.63; P = .02) for a significant worsening in asthma control. The association between asthma control and sputum eosinophils and the accuracy of the MIDs of sputum eosinophils were confirmed in the validation cohort. At the individual level, asthma control was associated with fluctuations in sputum eosinophil count over time. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Stable and Size-Tunable Aggregation-Induced Emission Nanoparticles Encapsulated with Nanographene Oxide and Applications in Three-Photon Fluorescence Bioimaging.

PubMed

Zhu, Zhenfeng; Qian, Jun; Zhao, Xinyuan; Qin, Wei; Hu, Rongrong; Zhang, Hequn; Li, Dongyu; Xu, Zhengping; Tang, Ben Zhong; He, Sailing

2016-01-26

Organic fluorescent dyes with high quantum yield are widely applied in bioimaging and biosensing. However, most of them suffer from a severe effect called aggregation-caused quenching (ACQ), which means that their fluorescence is quenched at high molecular concentrations or in the aggregation state. Aggregation-induced emission (AIE) is a diametrically opposite phenomenon to ACQ, and luminogens with this feature can effectively solve this problem. Graphene oxide has been utilized as a quencher for many fluorescent dyes, based on which biosensing can be achieved. However, using graphene oxide as a surface modification agent of fluorescent nanoparticles is seldom reported. In this article, we used nanographene oxide (NGO) to encapsulate fluorescent nanoparticles, which consisted of a type of AIE dye named TPE-TPA-FN (TTF). NGO significantly improved the stability of nanoparticles in aqueous dispersion. In addition, this method could control the size of nanoparticles' flexibly as well as increase their emission efficiency. We then used the NGO-modified TTF nanoparticles to achieve three-photon fluorescence bioimaging. The architecture of ear blood vessels in mice and the distribution of nanoparticles in zebrafish could be observed clearly. Furthermore, we extended this method to other AIE luminogens and showed it was widely feasible.

Simvastatin in the treatment of asthma: lack of steroid-sparing effect.

PubMed

Cowan, Douglas C; Cowan, Jan O; Palmay, Rochelle; Williamson, Avis; Taylor, D Robin

2010-10-01

Statins have anti-inflammatory actions which in theory are potentially beneficial in asthma. Small trials have failed to show a significant benefit, but a systematic study to evaluate the steroid-sparing effect of statin treatment has not been carried out. A randomised, placebo-controlled, crossover trial was conducted of simvastatin 40 mg at night with simultaneous stepwise reduction of fluticasone propionate dose until loss of control occurred, followed by an increase until regain of control ('minimum' dose required) in 51 patients with asthma and sputum eosinophils (steroid-free) ≥ 2%. 43 patients completed the study. There was no significant difference in 'minimum' inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) dose requirement between simvastatin and placebo: (median (IQR) 50 μg daily (0-250) vs 100 μg daily (0-250), p=0.931). 'Minimum' dose distribution was similar (p=0.269). The fluticasone dose at which loss of control occurred did not differ significantly between simvastatin and placebo (p=0.404). In patients with loss of control in both treatment arms, fluticasone dose at loss of control was similar with simvastatin and placebo (median (IQR) 50 μg daily (0-100) for both, p=0.620). In those patients who reached 0 μg/day (n=18), Astma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) was lower (p=0.037), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV(1)) higher (p<0.01) and sputum eosinophils lower with simvastatin compared with placebo (9.5% compared with 25.4%, p=0.033). Simvastatin does not have clinically important steroid-sparing effects in patients with eosinophilic asthma. In the absence of steroid, simvastatin is associated with minor improvements in symptoms and lung function, and a reduction in sputum eosinophils. Clinical trial number ACTRN12606000531516.

As-Needed Budesonide-Formoterol versus Maintenance Budesonide in Mild Asthma.

PubMed

Bateman, Eric D; Reddel, Helen K; O'Byrne, Paul M; Barnes, Peter J; Zhong, Nanshan; Keen, Christina; Jorup, Carin; Lamarca, Rosa; Siwek-Posluszna, Agnieszka; FitzGerald, J Mark

2018-05-17

Patients with mild asthma often rely on inhaled short-acting β 2 -agonists for symptom relief and have poor adherence to maintenance therapy. Another approach might be for patients to receive a fast-acting reliever plus an inhaled glucocorticoid component on an as-needed basis to address symptoms and exacerbation risk. We conducted a 52-week, double-blind, multicenter trial involving patients 12 years of age or older who had mild asthma and were eligible for treatment with regular inhaled glucocorticoids. Patients were randomly assigned to receive twice-daily placebo plus budesonide-formoterol (200 μg of budesonide and 6 μg of formoterol) used as needed or budesonide maintenance therapy with twice-daily budesonide (200 μg) plus terbutaline (0.5 mg) used as needed. The primary analysis compared budesonide-formoterol used as needed with budesonide maintenance therapy with regard to the annualized rate of severe exacerbations, with a prespecified noninferiority limit of 1.2. Symptoms were assessed according to scores on the Asthma Control Questionnaire-5 (ACQ-5) on a scale from 0 (no impairment) to 6 (maximum impairment). A total of 4215 patients underwent randomization, and 4176 (2089 in the budesonide-formoterol group and 2087 in the budesonide maintenance group) were included in the full analysis set. Budesonide-formoterol used as needed was noninferior to budesonide maintenance therapy for severe exacerbations; the annualized rate of severe exacerbations was 0.11 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.10 to 0.13) and 0.12 (95% CI, 0.10 to 0.14), respectively (rate ratio, 0.97; upper one-sided 95% confidence limit, 1.16). The median daily metered dose of inhaled glucocorticoid was lower in the budesonide-formoterol group (66 μg) than in the budesonide maintenance group (267 μg). The time to the first exacerbation was similar in the two groups (hazard ratio, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.78 to 1.17). The change in ACQ-5 score showed a difference of 0.11 units (95% CI, 0.07 to 0.15) in favor of budesonide maintenance therapy. In patients with mild asthma, budesonide-formoterol used as needed was noninferior to twice-daily budesonide with respect to the rate of severe asthma exacerbations during 52 weeks of treatment but was inferior in controlling symptoms. Patients in the budesonide-formoterol group had approximately one quarter of the inhaled glucocorticoid exposure of those in the budesonide maintenance group. (Funded by AstraZeneca; SYGMA 2 ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT02224157 .).

Long-term outcomes of internet-based self-management support in adults with asthma: randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

van Gaalen, Johanna L; Beerthuizen, Thijs; van der Meer, Victor; van Reisen, Patricia; Redelijkheid, Geertje W; Snoeck-Stroband, Jiska B; Sont, Jacob K

2013-09-12

Long-term asthma management falls short of the goals set by international guidelines. The Internet is proposed as an attractive medium to support guided self-management in asthma. Recently, in a multicenter, pragmatic randomized controlled parallel trial with a follow-up period of 1 year, patients were allocated Internet-based self-management (IBSM) support (Internet group [IG]) or usual care (UC) alone. IBSM support was automatically terminated after 12 months of follow-up. In this study, IBSM support has been demonstrated to improve asthma-related quality of life, asthma control, lung function, and the number of symptom-free days as compared to UC. IBSM support was based on known key components for effective self-management and included weekly asthma control monitoring and treatment advice, online and group education, and communication (both online and offline) with a respiratory nurse. The objective of the study was to assess the long-term effects of providing patients 1 year of IBSM support as compared to UC alone. Two hundred adults with physician-diagnosed asthma (3 or more months of inhaled corticosteroids prescribed in the past year) from 37 general practices and 1 academic outpatient department who previously participated were invited by letter for additional follow-up at 1.5 years after finishing the study. The Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) and the Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (AQLQ) were completed by 107 participants (60 UC participants and 47 IG participants). A minimal clinical important difference in both questionnaires is 0.5 on a 7-point scale. At 30 months after baseline, a sustained and significant difference in terms of asthma-related quality of life of 0.29 (95% CI 0.01-0.57) and asthma control of -0.33 (95% CI -0.61 to -0.05) was found in favor of the IBSM group. No such differences were found for inhaled corticosteroid dosage or for lung function, measured as forced expiratory volume in 1 second. Improvements in asthma-related quality of life and asthma control were sustained in patients who received IBSM support for 1 year, even up to 1.5 years after terminating support. Future research should be focused on implementation of IBSM on a wider scale within routine asthma care. International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number (ISRCTN): 79864465; http://www.controlled-trials.com/ISRCTN79864465 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6J4VHhPk4).

The relationship between migraine headache and asthma features.

PubMed

Dirican, Nigar; Demirci, Seden; Cakir, Munire

2017-06-01

Migraine and asthma are comorbid chronic disorders with episodic attacks thought to involve inflammatory and neurological mechanisms. The objective of the present study is to investigate the relationship of asthma features between the asthma patients with migraine and those without migraine headache. A cross-sectional study was conducted from October 2015 to June 2016. Physician-diagnosed asthma patients aged 18 years and above were included. Demographic data, pulmonary function test and treatment of asthma were recorded. Asthma control was assessed using the asthma control test (ACT) and asthma control questionnaire (ACQ). The diagnosis of migraine was made by the neurologist with face-to face examinations based on the International Classification of Headache Disorders, third edition beta (ICHD-III-beta) criteria. Data about the age at onset, frequency of headache attacks, duration of headache attack, the presence of aura, and severity of headache were recorded. The severity of headache was evaluated using visual analogue scale (VAS). Overall 121 asthma patients were included in this study. Migraine was found to be present in 32 (26.4%) of patients. No statistically significant difference was found between asthma group and asthma with migraine groups in terms of pulmonary function test parameters. The mean ACT score in asthma with migraine patients group was significantly lower than the asthma groups. Morever, in the group asthma with migraine, a negative significant correlations were found between ACT scores with VAS scores. This study demonstrates that migraine headache may be associated with poor asthma control. On the other hand, it should not be forgotten that ACT is a subjective test and can be affected from by many clinical parameters.

WeChat Public Account Use Improves Clinical Control of Cough-Variant Asthma: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

PubMed

Cao, Yuan; Lin, Shi-Hua; Zhu, Ding; Xu, Feng; Chen, Zhi-Hua; Shen, Hua-Hao; Li, Wen

2018-03-14

BACKGROUND WeChat is a convenient and popular social medium, and it seems to be an appropriate platform for education and management of patients. This study sought to identify usefulness in clinical control of cough-variant asthma (CVA). MATERIAL AND METHODS A randomized controlled trial was conducted among 80 CVA patients. After being assigned to either the traditional group (TG) or the WeChat group (WG), they received the same inhalation therapy, but patients in WG received additional education and instruction via our public account on the WeChat application. Questionnaires on asthma and chronic cough, data on pulmonary function, blood-related items, follow-up adherence, and Emergency Department (ED) visits were collected at the initial visit and at 3 months. RESULTS A total of 67 participants completed the trial for analysis. FEV1/predicted and FEV1/FVC were significantly increased in WG (p<0.001; p=0.012) after 3 months. PD20-FEV1 was increased in both groups compared with baseline, but more pronounced in WG (p=0.004). ACQ-7 scores were improved in both groups (p=0.024; p<0.001). Participants allocated to WG experienced a greater improvement in AQLQ and LCQ scores, and between-group differences were significant at 3 months (p=0.040; p=0.001). Furthermore, we observed decreases in blood eosinophil count and FeNO in WG (p=0.048; p=0.014), and WG presented better follow-up compliance (p=0.034). CONCLUSIONS Using WeChat as part of treatment and management of CVA can help patients learn about their disease and medications, as well as improve disease control and therapy outcomes.

WeChat Public Account Use Improves Clinical Control of Cough-Variant Asthma: A Randomized Controlled Trial

PubMed Central

Cao, Yuan; Lin, Shi-Hua; Zhu, Ding; Xu, Feng; Chen, Zhi-Hua

2018-01-01

Background WeChat is a convenient and popular social medium, and it seems to be an appropriate platform for education and management of patients. This study sought to identify usefulness in clinical control of cough-variant asthma (CVA). Material/Methods A randomized controlled trial was conducted among 80 CVA patients. After being assigned to either the traditional group (TG) or the WeChat group (WG), they received the same inhalation therapy, but patients in WG received additional education and instruction via our public account on the WeChat application. Questionnaires on asthma and chronic cough, data on pulmonary function, blood-related items, follow-up adherence, and Emergency Department (ED) visits were collected at the initial visit and at 3 months. Results A total of 67 participants completed the trial for analysis. FEV1/predicted and FEV1/FVC were significantly increased in WG (p<0.001; p=0.012) after 3 months. PD20-FEV1 was increased in both groups compared with baseline, but more pronounced in WG (p=0.004). ACQ-7 scores were improved in both groups (p=0.024; p<0.001). Participants allocated to WG experienced a greater improvement in AQLQ and LCQ scores, and between-group differences were significant at 3 months (p=0.040; p=0.001). Furthermore, we observed decreases in blood eosinophil count and FeNO in WG (p=0.048; p=0.014), and WG presented better follow-up compliance (p=0.034). Conclusions Using WeChat as part of treatment and management of CVA can help patients learn about their disease and medications, as well as improve disease control and therapy outcomes. PMID:29536984

Recommended CENWAVE Settings for NUV COS ACQ/PEAKXD Procedure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Indriolo, Nick; Plesha, Rachel; Penton, Steven V.

2017-05-01

Spectroscopic target acquisitions with COS begin with the ACQ/PEAKXD procedure, which centers the external target in the science aperture in the cross-dispersion direction. During this procedure the external target is observed through the Primary Science Aperture (PSA) or Bright Object Aperture (BOA) and the Pt-Ne hollow cathode lamp is flashed on to produce an emission line spectrum in the Wavelength Calibration Aperture(WCA). The separation between the centroids of the WCA and PSA (or BOA) spectra is measured and compared to the known separation between the WCA and the center of the PSA (or BOA). In this way, the slew required to move the target to the center of the PSA (BOA) in the cross-dispersion direction is determined. This procedure requires an accurate measurement of the center of the WCA spectrum in the cross-dispersion direction. Each CENWAVE setting has a different distribution of emission lines from the Pt-Ne lamp on the NUV detector. Due to effects such as lamp aging and optics select mechanism (OSM) drift, the flux in the WCA spectrum for a given CENWAVE can change with time, and it is possible that some settings do not provide enough flux to reliably measure the center of the WCA spectrum. In this ISR we use all available NUV WCA data from 2010 Jan 01 through 2016 Oct 07 to determine which CENWAVE settings are optimal for the ACQ/PEAKXD procedure. These optimal settings are recommended in the Cycle 25 COS Instrument Handbook.

48 CFR 211.275-2 - Policy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... (RFID), in the form of a passive RFID tag, is required for cases and palletized unit loads packaging...://www.acq.osd.mil/log/rfid/ or to— (i) A location outside the contiguous United States when the shipment...

48 CFR 211.275-2 - Policy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... (RFID), in the form of a passive RFID tag, is required for cases and palletized unit loads packaging...://www.acq.osd.mil/log/rfid/ or to— (i) A location outside the contiguous United States when the shipment...

48 CFR 211.275-2 - Policy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... (RFID), in the form of a passive RFID tag, is required for cases and palletized unit loads packaging...://www.acq.osd.mil/log/rfid/ or to— (i) A location outside the contiguous United States when the shipment...

48 CFR 211.275-2 - Policy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... (RFID), in the form of a passive RFID tag, is required for cases and palletized unit loads packaging...://www.acq.osd.mil/log/rfid/ or to— (i) A location outside the contiguous United States when the shipment...

Efficacy and Safety of Tiotropium in the Treatment of Severe Persistent Asthma:Meta-analysis.

PubMed

Lou, Li-li; Gong, Hai-hong; Zhang, Ming-qiang; Gao, Jin-ming

2016-02-01

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of tiotropium in treatment of severe persistent asthma. Reports of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) describing tiotropium for treatment of severe persistent asthma published from January 1946 to February 2015 were searched in Cochrane Library, ClinicalTrials.gov, PubMed, Ovid Medline, CNKI, and CSJD. The data of the included RCTs were extracted and the data quality was evaluated. Meta-analyses were performed with Revman 5.3 software. Five RCTs including 1433 patients were analyzed. Meta-analysis of the data showed that compared with the placebo group, tiotropium treatment significantly improved the patients' peak forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) [weighted mean difference (WMD): 0.13 L, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.10-0.16 L, P<0.00001], trough FEV1 (WMD: 0.09 L, 95%CI: 0.06-0.12 L, P<0.00001), peak forced vital capacity (FVC) (WMD: 0.10 L, 95%CI: 0.06-0.14 L, P<0.00001), trough FVC (WMD: 0.12 L, 95%CI: 0.08-0.17 L, P<0.00001), morning peak expiratory flow (PEF) (WMD: 9.21 L/min, 95%CI: 4.2-14.23 L/min, P=0.0003), evening PEF (WMD: 22.06 L/min, 95%CI 13.05-31.08 L/min, P<0.00001). The scores of asthma control questionnaire (ACQ) (WMD: 0.01, 95% CI: -0.07-0.09, P=0.86) or asthma quality of life questionnaire (AQLQ)(WMD: 0.06, 95% CI:-0.18-0.06, P=0.33) were not affected by tiotropium. No significant difference with adverse events between tiotropium group and placebo group were reported in these included studies (P>0.05). Tiotropium for severe persistent asthma treatment can improve FEV1, FVC, and PEF but may not improve the quality of life of the patients. Tiotropium is well tolerated and can be an add-on therapy for severe persistent asthma.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jian, Siyang; Li, Jianwei; Chen, Ji

Nitrogen (N) fertilization affects the rate of soil organic carbon (SOC) decomposition by regulating extracellular enzyme activities (EEA). Extracellular enzymes have not been represented in global biogeochemical models. Understanding the relationships among EEA and SOC, soil N (TN), and soil microbial biomass carbon (MBC) under N fertilization would enable modeling of the influence of EEA on SOC decomposition. Based on 65 published studies, we synthesized the activities of α-1,4-glucosidase (AG), β-1,4-glucosidase (BG), β-d-cellobiosidase (CBH), β-1,4-xylosidase (BX), β-1,4-N-acetyl-glucosaminidase (NAG), leucine amino peptidase (LAP), urease (UREA), acid phosphatase (AP), phenol oxidase (PHO), and peroxidase (PEO) in response to N fertilization. Here, themore » proxy variables for hydrolytic C acquisition enzymes (C-acq), N acquisition (N-acq), and oxidative decomposition (OX) were calculated as the sum of AG, BG, CBH and BX; AG and LAP; PHO and PEO, respectively.« less

Microcomputer-Based Acquisitions.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Desmarais, Norman

1986-01-01

This discussion of three automated acquisitions systems--Bib-Base/Acq, The Book Trak Ordering System, and Card Datalog Acquisitions Module--covers searching and updating, editing, acquisitions functions and statistics, purchase orders and order file, budgeting and accounts maintenance, defining parameters, documentation, security, printing, and…

Multidisciplinary approach to management of maternal asthma (MAMMA [copyright]): the PROTOCOL for a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Lim, Angelina; Stewart, Kay; Abramson, Michael J; Walker, Susan P; George, Johnson

2012-12-19

Uncontrolled asthma during pregnancy is associated with the maternal hazards of disease exacerbation, and perinatal hazards including intrauterine growth restriction and preterm birth. Interventions directed at achieving better asthma control during pregnancy should be considered a high priority in order to optimise both maternal and perinatal outcomes. Poor compliance with prescribed asthma medications during pregnancy and suboptimal prescribing patterns to pregnant women have both been shown to be contributing factors that jeopardise asthma control. The aim is to design and evaluate an intervention involving multidisciplinary care for women experiencing asthma in pregnancy. A pilot single-blinded parallel-group randomized controlled trial testing a Multidisciplinary Approach to Management of Maternal Asthma (MAMMA©) which involves education and regular monitoring. Pregnant women with asthma will be recruited from antenatal clinics in Victoria, Australia. Recruited participants, stratified by disease severity, will be allocated to the intervention or the usual care group in a 1:1 ratio. Both groups will be followed prospectively throughout pregnancy and outcomes will be compared between groups at three and six months after recruitment to evaluate the effectiveness of this intervention. Outcome measures include Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) scores, oral corticosteroid use, asthma exacerbations and asthma related hospital admissions, and days off work, preventer to reliever ratio, along with pregnancy and neonatal adverse events at delivery. The use of FEV(1)/FEV(6) will be also investigated during this trial as a marker for asthma control. If successful, this model of care could be widely implemented in clinical practice and justify more funding for support services and resources for these women. This intervention will also promote awareness of the risks of poorly controlled asthma and the need for a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach to asthma management during pregnancy. This is also the first study to investigate the use of FEV1/FEV6 as a marker for asthma control during pregnancy. Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12612000681853).

BTS guide to good statistical practice

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2002-09-01

Quality of data has many faces. Primarily, it has to be relevant to its users. Relevance is : an outcome that is achieved through a series of steps starting with a planning process that : link user needs to data requirements. It continues through acq...

Cysteinyl leukotrienes in exhaled breath condensate of smoking asthmatics.

PubMed

Celik, Deniz; Doruk, Sibel; Koseoglu, Handan Inonu; Sahin, Semsettin; Celikel, Serhat; Erkorkmaz, Unal

2013-05-01

Cysteinyl leukotrienes (CysLTs) are among important inflammatory mediators in asthma pathogenesis. In this study, we aimed to determine leukotriene D₄ (LTD₄) and leukotriene E₄ (LTE₄) levels in exhaled breath condensate (EBC) in asthmatics and to evaluate the effect of smoking upon CysLTs levels and to speculate the importance of adding leukotriene receptor antagonists in smoking asthmatics. A total of 88 participants were included in the study. Of them, 59 were asthmatics; 30 of the 59 asthmatics were smokers (Group I) and the others were non-smokers (Group II). As a control group (Group III), 29 healthy non-smokers were enrolled. EBC samples were collected (EcoScreen, Jaeger, Hoechberg, Germany) and pulmonary function tests (PFTs) were performed in each case, and an asthma control questionnaire (ACQ) was completed by the asthmatics. LTD₄ and LTE₄ levels in EBC samples were analyzed by using ELISA. LTD₄ levels were found to be higher in Group I than other groups and similar in Group II and Group III. LTE₄ levels were lower in Group III than other groups and similar in Group I and Group II. PFTs were different between Group I and Group III and there was a significant negative correlation between LTE₄ levels and forced expiratory volume in one second and forced vital capacity ratio in Group I. LTD₄, but not LTE₄, concentrations in EBC were higher in asthmatic smokers than asthmatic nonsmokers. LTE₄ concentrations in EBC were higher in asthmatics than healthy non-smokers. In smoking asthmatics usage of agents that block the effects of LTD₄ can be beneficial; however, new clinical studies are required.

Epithelia transmembrane transport of orally administered ultrafine drug particles evidenced by environment sensitive fluorophores in cellular and animal studies.

PubMed

Xie, Yike; Shi, Baokui; Xia, Fei; Qi, Jianping; Dong, Xiaochun; Zhao, Weili; Li, Tonglei; Wu, Wei; Lu, Yi

2018-01-28

Little is known about the in vivo fate of drug particles taken orally, in particular, the drug release kinetics and interaction with the gastrointestinal (GI) membrane. Lacking is analytical means that can reliably identify the integrity of drug particles under the complexity of biological environment. Herein, we explored fluorescent probes whose signals become quenched upon being released from drug carriers. Taking advantage of so-called the aggregation caused quenching (ACQ), particles may be identified by the integrated fluorophores, which are "turned off" when the particles become destructed and dyes are released. In the current study, ultrafine amorphous particles (UAPs) of cyclosporin A (CsA) were prepared with synthesized ACQ dyes physically entrapped. The fluorescence intensity of suspension of these UAPs was found correlated well with the dissolution of the particles. When given to rats orally, it was found that some of the administered UAPs could survive the animal's GI tracts for as long as 18h. Whole-body fluorescence imaging detected fluorescent signals in the liver and lungs. Particularly noticed in sections of jejunum and ileum, the detection suggested the possibility of direct absorption of UAPs through epithelial membranes. Moreover, 250nm particles were absorbed faster via transepithelia than larger ones (550nm), while the latter were preferably taken up by M cells in the follicle-associated epithelium (FAE) region of Peyer's patches. In vitro permeation studies with Caco-2 cells confirmed the transmembrane transport of the dye-integrated UAPs. Our study supports the idea of using ACQ fluorophores for imaging and characterizing the fate of intact particles in a biological environment. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

RELATIVE LEACHING AND AQUATIC TOXICITY OF PRESSURE-TREATED WOOD PRODUCTS USING BATCH LEACHING TESTS

EPA Science Inventory

Samples of southern yellow pine dimensional lumber, each treated with one of five different waterborne chemical preservatives, were leached using 18-hour batch leaching tests. The wood preservatives included chromated copper arsenate (CCA), alkaline copper quaternary (ACQ), coppe...

FIELD-SCALE LEACHING OF ARSENIC, CHROMIUM AND COPPER FROM WEATHERED TREATED WOOD

PubMed Central

Hasan, A. Rasem; Hu, Ligang; Solo-Gabriele, Helena M.; Fieber, Lynne; Cai, Yong; Townsend, Timothy G.

2010-01-01

Earlier studies documented the loss of wood preservatives from new wood. The objective of this study was to evaluate losses from weathered treated wood under field conditions by collecting rainfall leachate from 5 different wood types, all with a surface area of 0.21 m2. Wood samples included weathered chromate copper arsenate (CCA) treated wood at low (2.7 kg/m3), medium (4.8 kg/m3) and high (35.4 kg/m3) retention levels, new alkaline copper quat (ACQ) treated wood (1.1 kg/m3 as CuO) and new untreated wood. Arsenic was found to leach at a higher rate (100 mg in 1 year for low retention) than chromium and copper (<40 mg) in all CCA treated wood samples. Copper leached at the highest rate from the ACQ sample (670 mg). Overall results suggest that metals’ leaching is a continuous process driven by rainfall, and that the mechanism of release from the wood matrix changes as wood weathers. PMID:20053493

Soil extracellular enzyme activities, soil carbon and nitrogen storage under nitrogen fertilization: A meta-analysis

DOE PAGES

Jian, Siyang; Li, Jianwei; Chen, Ji; ...

2016-07-08

Nitrogen (N) fertilization affects the rate of soil organic carbon (SOC) decomposition by regulating extracellular enzyme activities (EEA). Extracellular enzymes have not been represented in global biogeochemical models. Understanding the relationships among EEA and SOC, soil N (TN), and soil microbial biomass carbon (MBC) under N fertilization would enable modeling of the influence of EEA on SOC decomposition. Based on 65 published studies, we synthesized the activities of α-1,4-glucosidase (AG), β-1,4-glucosidase (BG), β-d-cellobiosidase (CBH), β-1,4-xylosidase (BX), β-1,4-N-acetyl-glucosaminidase (NAG), leucine amino peptidase (LAP), urease (UREA), acid phosphatase (AP), phenol oxidase (PHO), and peroxidase (PEO) in response to N fertilization. Here, themore » proxy variables for hydrolytic C acquisition enzymes (C-acq), N acquisition (N-acq), and oxidative decomposition (OX) were calculated as the sum of AG, BG, CBH and BX; AG and LAP; PHO and PEO, respectively.« less

Highly Stable and Red-Emitting Nanovesicles Incorporating Lipophilic Diketopyrrolopyrroles for Cell Imaging.

PubMed

Veciana, Jaume; Ardizzone, Antonio; Blasi, Davide; Grimaldi, Natascia; Sala, Santi; Ratera, Imma; Vona, Danilo; Rosspeintner, Arnulf; Punzi, Angela; Altamura, Emiliano; Vauthey, Eric; Farinola, Gianluca M; Ventosa, Nora

2018-06-05

Diketopyrrolopyrroles (DPPs) have recently attracted large interest as highly bright and photostable red-emitting molecules. However, their tendency to form non-fluorescent aggregates in water via the so-called Aggregation Caused Quenching (ACQ) effect is a major issue that limits their application under the microscope. In this work, two DPP molecules have been incorporated in the membrane of highly stable and water-soluble Quatsomes (QS, nanovesicles made by surfactants and sterols), allowing their nanostructuration in water limiting at the same time the ACQ effect. The obtained fluorescent organic nanoparticles (FONs) showed superior structural homogeneity along with long-time colloidal and optical stability. A thorough one- (1P) and two-photon (2P) fluorescence characterization revealed the promising photophysical features of these fluorescent nanovesicles, which showed a high 1P and 2P brightness. Finally, the fluorescent QSs were used for the in vitro bioimaging of Saos-2 osteosarcoma cell lines, demonstrating their potential as nanomaterials for bioimaging applications. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Manure management effects on phosphorus biotransformations and losses in animal production

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The bioactivity of manure P is highly dynamic and dependent on interactions with the reactive soil surface and biologically mediated transformations. Biological tools that combine ligand exchange and enzyme-mediated mineralization of organic P can mimic plants and microorganisms in their ways of acq...

Moisture storage and transport properties of preservative treated and untreated southern pine wood

Treesearch

Samuel L. Zelinka; Samuel V. Glass; Charles R. Boardman; Dominique Derome

2016-01-01

Moisture storage and transport properties of southern pine (Pinus spp.) wood were measured for implementation into hygrothermal models. Specimens were untreated or pressure-treated with alkaline copper quaternary (ACQ) preservative. Moisture storage was characterized with sorption isotherms in the hygroscopic region (high capillary pressures) and...

COS FUV Target Acquisition Monitor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Penton, Steven V.

2017-08-01

Starting in Cycle 25, the COS Target Acquisition (TA) monitor has been divided into two pieces, NUV (15389) and FUV (15386). This program is the FUV portion and is designed specifically for FUV LP4. FUV LP4 uses NUM_POS > 1 PEAKXDs for cross-dispersion TA. All previous LPs used NUM_POS=1 PEAKXDs. The NUM_POS=1 PEAKXDs required the routine monitoring of the grating-dependent WCA-to-PSA offsets. The NUM_POS >1 PEAKXDs do not use these flight software (FSW) patchable constants as they use the LTAPKD FSW macro used in ACQ/PEAKD, but re-purposed for use in the cross-dispersion (XD).This program uses the HST standard star WD1657+343. This target was used previously in the COS TA Monitor programs, 13124 (C20), 13526 (C21), 13972 (C22), 14440 (C23) & 14857 (C24). In these programs, this target was used to co-align the PSA/MIRRORB and BOA/MIRRORA ACQ/IMAGE modes. We re-use this target here as it is safe with PSA/MIRRORA and visible almost year-round.Note that when presented to the mission office, the target 206W3 was listed as the target for this program. This target was a backup target in previous TA monitor programs and was the faintest of the 3 targets in the program. Switching to the next brighter target (WD1657+343) allows all the goals of this program to be accomplished in just 2 orbits. Also, as this target has been used for every generation of this program, the FUV monitoring can be bootstrapped to previous programs, if needed. See the observing description for more details.The LTAIMAGE that started the second orbit of Visit 26 had the TDF down and the shutter closed. This caused the ACQ/IMAGE to miscenter the target by about 1.3". Visit 90 was added as a partial repeat from HOPR 89665. This visit is as close to a repeat of the 2nd orbit of Visi t 25 as possible. Due to time lost doing a full acq instead of a RE-ACQ, the following changes were made:1) Changed Visit number to 902) Schedulability set to 90%3) Before date set to Feb-19-2018, but the earlier the better (this is negotiable)4) Increased Buffer Time for Exposures 90.010 and 90.014 to 976s (2/3 * ETC time)5) Increased Buffer Time for Exposes 90.011 and 90.012 to 2000s (976/0.45 = 2168s)6) Changed exposures times for 90.011 and 90.012 from 182 to 180s.Visit 90 had a GS problem (RGA hold failure) and the entire visit had the shutter closed. HSTAR 14932 was filed along with the approved HOPR 89896. Visit 90 was copied to Visit 91 with the following changes:1) Changed Visit number to 912) Before changed from 19-FEB-2018 to 19-MAR-2018Note that there are 4 exposures with "Y" POS_TARGs in Visit 91 to intentionally offset the target in XD by +/- 1.3"; 2 are G140L and 2 are G160M.We request that previously used, known good, Guide Stars be used, if possible.

Multifunctional Information Distribution System (MIDS)

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-12-01

UNCLASSIFIED 2 Table of Contents Common Acronyms and Abbreviations for MDAP Programs 3 Program Information 5 Responsible Office 5...Contracts 77 Deliveries and Expenditures 84 Operating and Support Cost 85 Common Acronyms and Abbreviations for MDAP Programs Acq O&M...Acquisition-Related Operations and Maintenance ACAT - Acquisition Category ADM - Acquisition Decision Memorandum APB - Acquisition Program Baseline

48 CFR 225.301-4 - Contract clause.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... Predeployment and Operational Tracker (SPOT) is the appropriate automated system to use for the list of contractor personnel required by paragraph (g) of the clause. Information on the SPOT system is available at http://www.dod.mil/bta/products/spot.html and http://www.acq.osd.mil/log/PS/spot.html. [73 FR 16774...

48 CFR 225.301-4 - Contract clause.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... Predeployment and Operational Tracker (SPOT) is the appropriate automated system to use for the list of contractor personnel required by paragraph (g) of the clause. Information on the SPOT system is available at http://www.dod.mil/bta/products/spot.html and http://www.acq.osd.mil/log/PS/spot.html. [73 FR 16774...

48 CFR 225.301-4 - Contract clause.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... Predeployment and Operational Tracker (SPOT) is the appropriate automated system to use for the list of contractor personnel required by paragraph (g) of the clause. Information on the SPOT system is available at http://www.dod.mil/bta/products/spot.html and http://www.acq.osd.mil/log/PS/spot.html. [73 FR 16774...

48 CFR 225.301-4 - Contract clause.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... Predeployment and Operational Tracker (SPOT) is the appropriate automated system to use for the list of contractor personnel required by paragraph (g) of the clause. Information on the SPOT system is available at http://www.dod.mil/bta/products/spot.html and http://www.acq.osd.mil/log/PS/spot.html. [73 FR 16774...

48 CFR 225.301-4 - Contract clause.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... Predeployment and Operational Tracker (SPOT) is the appropriate automated system to use for the list of contractor personnel required by paragraph (g) of the clause. Information on the SPOT system is available at http://www.dod.mil/bta/products/spot.html and http://www.acq.osd.mil/log/PS/spot.html. [73 FR 16774...

The impact of acquisition times on the accuracy of microwave soil moisture retrievals over the contiguous U.S.

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Satellite-derived soil moisture products have become an important data source for the study of land surface processes and related applications. For satellites with sun-synchronous orbits, these products are typically derived separately for ascending and descending overpasses with different local acq...

Supplemental Grounding of Extended EMP Collectors.

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-01-31

G52AAXEX40602 H2590D as Contract DNA 001-80-C-0294. The program was monitored by Major Blair Williams, RAEE . The work described in this report was...ATTN: RAEE ATTN: DPOPM-COM-W-D ATTN RAAE ATTN: NATA Deputy Chief of Staff for Rsch Dev & Acq 4 cy ATTN: TITL ATTN: DAMA-CSS-N Defense Tech Info Ctr

Fluorescence Aggregation-Caused Quenching versus Aggregation-Induced Emission: A Visual Teaching Technology for Undergraduate Chemistry Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ma, Xiaofeng; Sun, Rui; Cheng, Jinghui; Liu, Jiaoyan; Gou, Fei; Xiang, Haifeng; Zhou, Xiangge

2016-01-01

A laboratory experiment visually exploring two opposite basic principles of fluorescence of aggregation-caused quenching (ACQ) and aggregation-induced emission (AIE) is demonstrated. The students would prepared two salicylaldehyde-based Schiff bases through a simple one-pot condensation reaction of one equiv of 1,2-diamine with 2 equiv of…

Moisture meter calibration for untreated and ACQ-treated southern yellow pine plywood

Treesearch

Samuel V. Glass; Charles G. Carll

2009-01-01

Conductance moisture meter readings using stainless steel screws as electrodes were compared with gravimetric moisture content for 1) southern yellow pine (SYP) dimensioned lumber, 2) untreated (underlayment grade) SYP plywood, and 3) SYP plywood treated with alkaline copper quaternary. Meter readings were taken with the meter set to the manufacturer-provided species...

Gene expression analysis of wood decay fungus Fibroporia Radiculosa grown In ACQ-treated wood

Treesearch

Ayfer Akgul; Ali Akgul; Juliet D. Diehl Tang

2018-01-01

Copper-tolerant brown-rot fungi are able todegrade wood treated with copper or copper-based wood preservatives. This research used quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction to explore what genes of the brown-rot fungus, Fibroporia radiculosa, were expressed when the fungus was overcoming the wood preservatives and decaying the...

CMMI(Registered) for Acquisition, Version 1.3. CMMI-ACQ, V1.3

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-11-01

and Software Engineering – System Life Cycle Processes [ ISO 2008b] ISO /IEC 27001 :2005 Information technology – Security techniques – Information...International Organization for Standardization and International Electrotechnical Commission. ISO /IEC 27001 Information Technology – Security Techniques...International Organization for Standardization/International Electrotechnical Commission ( ISO /IEC) body of standards. CMMs focus on improving processes

Influence of 5-HTT variation, childhood trauma and self-efficacy on anxiety traits: a gene-environment-coping interaction study.

PubMed

Schiele, Miriam A; Ziegler, Christiane; Holitschke, Karoline; Schartner, Christoph; Schmidt, Brigitte; Weber, Heike; Reif, Andreas; Romanos, Marcel; Pauli, Paul; Zwanzger, Peter; Deckert, Jürgen; Domschke, Katharina

2016-08-01

Environmental vulnerability factors such as adverse childhood experiences in interaction with genetic risk variants, e.g., the serotonin transporter gene linked polymorphic region (5-HTTLPR), are assumed to play a role in the development of anxiety and affective disorders. However, positive influences such as general self-efficacy (GSE) may exert a compensatory effect on genetic disposition, environmental adversity, and anxiety traits. We, thus, assessed childhood trauma (Childhood Trauma Questionnaire, CTQ) and GSE in 678 adults genotyped for 5-HTTLPR/rs25531 and their interaction on agoraphobic cognitions (Agoraphobic Cognitions Questionnaire, ACQ), social anxiety (Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale, LSAS), and trait anxiety (State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, STAI-T). The relationship between anxiety traits and childhood trauma was moderated by self-efficacy in 5-HTTLPR/rs25531 LALA genotype carriers: LALA probands maltreated as children showed high anxiety scores when self-efficacy was low, but low anxiety scores in the presence of high self-efficacy despite childhood maltreatment. Our results extend previous findings regarding anxiety-related traits showing an interactive relationship between 5-HTT genotype and adverse childhood experiences by suggesting coping-related measures to function as an additional dimension buffering the effects of a gene-environment risk constellation. Given that anxiety disorders manifest already early in childhood, this insight could contribute to the improvement of psychotherapeutic interventions by including measures strengthening self-efficacy and inform early targeted preventive interventions in at-risk populations, particularly within the crucial time window of childhood and adolescence.

Treatability of five Appalachian wood species with creosote and timbor®

Treesearch

Jeffrey J. Slahor; Curt C. Hassler; Rodney C. DeGroot; Douglas J. Gardner

2000-01-01

The work described in this paper culminates an investigation into the treatability of five Appalachian hardwood species. Previous papers have described work using the waterborne preservatives CCA-C and ACQ-B. This paper details the results of pressure treatment with creosote and Timbor®. Six-inch long nominal two-by-four samples of red maple, yellow-poplar, red oak,...

Evaluating the corrosiveness of southern pine treated with several wood preservatives using electrochemical techniques

Treesearch

Samuel L. Zelinka; Douglas R. Rammer; Donald S. Stone

2009-01-01

Chromated copper arsenate (CCA), the most widely used wood preservative of the past 50 years, has been replaced for most uses with alkaline-copper systems such as alkaline copper quaternary (ACQ), copper azole (CuAz) and micronized copper quaternary (MCQ). Preliminary research using high-temperature, high-humidity environments have shown that some of these wood...

Impact of target-to-background ratio, target size, emission scan duration, and activity on physical figures of merit for a 3D LSO-based whole body PET/CT scanner.

PubMed

Brambilla, M; Matheoud, R; Secco, C; Sacchetti, G; Comi, S; Rudoni, M; Carriero, A; Inglese, E

2007-10-01

The aim of our work is to describe the way in which physical figures of merit such as contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) behave when varying acquisition parameters such as emission scan duration (ESD) or activity at the start of acquisition (A(acq)) that in clinical practice can be selected by the user, or object properties such as target dimensions or target-to-background (T/B) ratio, which depend uniquely on the intrinsic characteristics of the object being imaged. Figures of merit, used to characterize image quality and quantitative accuracy for a 3D-LSO based PET/CT scanner, were studied as a function of ESD and A(acq) for different target sizes and T/B ratios using a multivariate approach in a wide range of conditions approaching the ones that can be encountered in clinical practice. An annular ring of water bags of 3 cm thickness was fitted over an IEC phantom in order to obtain counting rates similar to those found in average patients. The average scatter fraction (SF) of the modified IEC phantom was similar to the mean SF measured on patients with a similar scanner. A supplemental set of micro-hollow spheres was positioned inside the phantom. The NEMA NU 2-2001 scatter phantom was positioned at the end of the IEC phantom to approximate the clinical situation of having activity that extends beyond the scanner. The phantoms were filled with a solution of water and 18F (12 kBq/mL) and the spheres with various T/B ratios of 22.5, 10.3, and 3.6. Sequential imaging was performed to acquire PET images with varying background activity concentrations of about 12, 9, 6.4, 5.3, and 3.1 kBq/mL, positioned on the linear portion of the phantom's NECR curve, well below peak NECR of 61.2 kcps that is reached at 31.8 kBq/mL. The ESD was set to 1, 2, 3, and 4 min/bed. With T/B ratios of 3.6, 10.3, and 22.5, the 13.0, 8.1, and 6.5 mm spheres were detectable for the whole ranges of background activity concentration and ESD, respectively. The ESD resulted as the most significant predictor of CNR variance, followed by T/B ratio and the cross sectional area of the given sphere. Only last comes A(acq) with a weight more than halved with respect to ESD. Thus, raising ESD seems to be much more effective than raising A(acq) in order to obtain higher CNR, which is the physical figure of merit closely related with target detectability, at least in the simple task of the signal known exactly background known exactly model.

Advances in corrosion testing of metals in contact with treated wood

Treesearch

Samuel Zelinka; D.S. Stone

2010-01-01

A January 2004 change in the regulation of wood preservatives used in the U.S.has increased the use of newer wood preservatives, such as alkaline copper quaternary (ACQ) and copper azole (CuAz). These preservatives contain high amounts of cupric ions, which may be reduced to copper metal at the expense of less noble steel and galvanized fasteners in the wood....

Competitiveness in the Services Sector: Understanding the Contracting Data

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-09-01

Retrieved from http://www.acq.osd.mil/osbp/sbir/sb/eligibility.shtml Denes, T. A. (1997). Do small business set - asides increase the cost of...comprises small businesses , while TechAmerica and the Coalition for Government Procurement primarily comprise large firms. Our discussions with... procurement auctions . Lamm, D. V. (1987). Why firms refuse DOD business : an analysis of rationale. National Contract Management Journal , 21 (Winter

Training and Doctrine Command Acquisition Management and Oversight Supplement

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-06-01

the foundation for all future procurement decisions. Chapter 4 of TR 5-14 requires the RA to gain approval and certification by the designated...CLM013-Work-Breakdown Structure CLM031-Improved Statement of Work ACQ265-Mission Focused Services Acquisition Army eLearning https...will be returned to acceptable levels, and how recurrence of the cause will be prevented in the future . 53 7.3. Performance Requirements Summary

Historical Perspectives and Guidelines for Botulinum Neurotoxin Subtype Nomenclature

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-08-26

Richmond, California, USA 5Bureau of Microbial Hazards , Health Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada 6Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie...monoclonal antibody-based immunoassay for detecting type B Clostridium botulinum toxin produced in pure culture and an inoculated model cured meat system...A3 Loch Maree duck paste/Scotland, 1922 ACA57525 A4 strain 657 infant botulism/Texas, 1976 ACQ51417 A5 H04402 065 wound botulism (heroin), 2004

LATIST: A Performance Support Tool for Integrating Technologies into Defense Acquisition University Learning Assets

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-07-01

TECHNOLOGIES INTO DEFENSE ACqUISITION UNIVERSITY LEARNING ASSETS Nada Dabbagh, Kevin Clark, Susan Dass , Salim Al Waaili, Sally Byrd, Susan...demographic data, four Likert- scale questions that targeted respondents’ familiarity with ALT, and one Likert- scale question addressing the...use of technology in learning with under- served populations. (E-mail address: kclark6@gmu.edu) Ms. Susan Dass has over 20 years’ experi- ence in

Water vapor sorption isotherms for southern pine treated with several waterborne preservatives

Treesearch

Samuel L Zelinka; Samuel V. Glass

2010-01-01

Equilibrium moisture content (EMC) was measured over a range of relative humidities at 22.5°C to determine whether certain wood preservatives increase the hygroscopicity of southern pine (Pinus sp.) The treatments studied were alkaline copper quaternary (ACQ) at a retention of 6.6 kg•m−3, chromated copper arsenate (CCA) at 6.9 kg•m

Automating the Exchange of Military Personnel Data Among Selected Army Organizations. Volume II. Appendices,

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-06-30

manpower needs as to quantity, quality and timing; all the internal functions of the personnel service are tapped to help meet these ends. Manpower...Program ACOS - Automated Computation of Service ACQ - Acquisition ACSAC - Assistant Chief of Staff for Automation and Comunications ACT - Automated...ARSTAF - Army Staff ARSTAFF - Army Staff ARTEP - Army Training and Evaluation Program ASI - Additional Skill Identifier ASVAB - Armed Services

Fluorescent Polymer Nanoparticles Based on Dyes: Seeking Brighter Tools for Bioimaging

PubMed Central

Reisch, Andreas; Klymchenko, Andrey S.

2017-01-01

Speed, resolution and sensitivity of today's fluorescence bioimaging can be drastically improved by fluorescent nanoparticles (NPs) that are many-fold brighter than organic dyes and fluorescent proteins. While the field is currently dominated by inorganic NPs, notably quantum dots (QDs), fluorescent polymer NPs encapsulating large quantities of dyes (dye-loaded NPs) have emerged recently as attractive alternative. These new nanomaterials, inspired from the fields of polymeric drug delivery vehicles and advanced fluorophores, can combine superior brightness with biodegradability and low toxicity. Here, we describe the strategies for synthesis of dye-loaded polymer NPs by emulsion polymerization and assembly of pre-formed polymers. Superior brightness requires strong dye loading without aggregation caused quenching (ACQ). Only recently several strategies of dye design were proposed to overcome ACQ in polymer NPs: aggregation induced emission (AIE), dye modification with bulky side groups and use of bulky hydrophobic counterions. The resulting NPs now surpass the brightness of QDs by ~10-fold for comparable size and start reaching the level of the brightest conjugated polymer NPs. Other properties, notably photostability, color, blinking as well as particle size and surface chemistry are also systematically analyzed. Finally, major and emerging applications of dye-loaded NPs for in vitro and in vivo imaging are reviewed. PMID:26901678

Uncertainties in corrosion rate measurements of fasteners exposed to treated wood at 100% relative humidity

Treesearch

Samuel L. Zelinka

2007-01-01

This paper evaluates the effect that uncertainties in measurements of time, weight, and surface area have on the determination of the corrosion rate of metal fasteners in contact with wood. Three different types of nails were driven into alkaline copper quaternary (ACQ)-treated wood and exposed to 26.7°C (80°C) at 100 % relative humidity environment for up to 1 year....

ESTCP Live Site Demonstrations Former Camp Beale

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-03-01

Mode Tx Mode Hold-Off Time (µs) Block Period (s) Rep Fctr Dec Fctr (%) Stk Const Base Freq (Hz) Decay Time (us) No. Gates Sample...contained in the AcqParams block of the TEM data file. It is not used for static data interpretation. Sample Period: The Block Time * Stk Constant...Analyze returned a 0.8016 confidence metric match between target BE-1500 and a 105mm projectile, the polarizability curves did not visually match those

Characteristics of adults with anxiety or depression treated at an internet clinic: comparison with a national survey and an outpatient clinic.

PubMed

Titov, Nickolai; Andrews, Gavin; Kemp, Alice; Robinson, Emma

2010-05-28

There is concern that people seeking treatment over the Internet for anxiety or depressive disorders may not resemble the general population or have less severe disorders than patients attending outpatient clinics or cases identified in community surveys. Thus the response to treatment in Internet based trials might not generalize. We reviewed the characteristics of applicants to an Australian Internet-based treatment clinic for anxiety and depression, and compared this sample with people from a national epidemiological survey and a sample of patients at a specialist outpatient anxiety and depression clinic. Participants included 774 volunteers to an Internet clinic, 454 patients at a specialist anxiety disorders outpatient clinic, and 627 cases identified in a national epidemiological survey. Main measures included demographic characteristics, and severity of symptoms as measured by the Kessler 10-Item scale (K-10), the 12-item World Health Organisation Disability Assessment Schedule second edition (WHODAS-II), the Penn State Worry Questionnaire (PSWQ), the Body Sensations Questionnaire (BSQ), the Automatic Cognitions Questionnaire (ACQ), the Social Interaction Anxiety Scale (SIAS) and the Social Phobia Scale (SPS). The severity of symptoms of participants attending the two clinics was similar, and both clinic samples were more severe than cases in the epidemiological survey. The Internet clinic and national samples were older and comprised more females than those attending the outpatient clinic. The Internet clinic sample were more likely to be married than the other samples. The Internet clinic and outpatient clinic samples had higher levels of educational qualifications than the national sample, but employment status was similar across groups. The Internet clinic sample have disorders as severe as those attending an outpatient clinic, but with demographic characteristics more consistent with the national sample. These data indicate that the benefits of Internet treatment could apply to the wider population.

Craving and relapse measurement in alcoholism.

PubMed

Potgieter, A S; Deckers, F; Geerlings, P

1999-01-01

This paper attempts to summarize the measurement of craving with four different craving instruments and to relate this to definitions and measurement of relapse. The definitions of relapse may vary between studies and researchers, but are usually well defined. Five commonly used methods to measure relapse are: (1) quantity/frequency of drinking; (2) cumulative duration of abstinence (CDA); (3) post-withdrawal abstinent period; (4) stable recovery period; (5) the time line follow-back method. The definition of craving is much less clear and is mostly described as an emotional-motivational state or as obsessive-compulsive behaviour. Four self-rating instruments are briefly discussed and compared: the Obsessive-Compulsive Drinking Scale, OCDS, the Lübeck Craving Scale, LCRR, the Alcohol Craving Questionnaire, ACQ-Now-SF-R, and ordinal scales (e.g. visual analogue, Likert, or verbal descriptive scales). These instruments measure different aspects or dimensions of craving over different periods. The different dimensions measured suggest that there is still a need to conceptualize a standard interpretation of the word craving. There is a need also to measure an emotional-motivational dimension, a cognitive-behavioural dimension, expectancies, and effects on positive and negative reinforcement with different instruments or with one multidimensional instrument. It is suggested that different patients are expected to have different craving profiles.

Inflammatory patterns in asthmatic children based on alveolar nitric oxide determination.

PubMed

Corcuera-Elosegui, Paula; Sardón-Prado, Olaia; Aldasoro-Ruiz, Ane; Korta-Murua, Javier; Mintegui-Aramburu, Javier; Emparanza-Knorr, José I; Pérez-Yarza, Eduardo G

2015-06-01

Nitric oxide (NO) levels can be measured at proximal (maximum airway NO flux [J'aw(NO)]) and distal (alveolar NO concentration [C(ANO)]) levels. Four inflammatory patterns have been described in asthmatic individuals, although their relevance has not been well established. The objective was to determine J'aw(NO) and C(ANO) in order to establish four inflammatory categories in asthmatics. Cross-sectional study of a sample consisting of healthy and asthmatic children. Exhaled NO was determined at multiple flows. J'aw(NO) and C(ANO) were obtained according to the two-compartment model. The asthma control questionnaire (ACQ) and spirometry were administered to asthmatic children. Patients were categorized as type I (normal J'aw(NO) and C(ANO)), type II (elevated J'aw(NO) and normal C(ANO)), type III (elevated J'aw(NO) and C(ANO)) and type IV (normal J'aw(NO) and elevated C(ANO)). Correlation between FE(NO,50), J'aw(NO) and C(ANO) was analyzed using Spearman's R Correlation Test. Analysis of variance and paired comparisons were performed using the Bonferroni correction. One hundred sixty-two children were studied, of whom 49 (32.23%) were healthy controls and 103 (67.76%) asthmatics. In the control subjects, FE(NO,50) (ppb)(median and range) was 11.5 (1.6 to 27.3), J'aw(NO) (pl/s) was 516 (98.3 to 1470) and C(ANO) (ppb) was 2.2 (0.1 to 4.5). Forty-four (42.7%) of the asthmatic participants were categorized as type I, 41 (39.8%) as type II, 14 (13.5%) as type III and 4 (3.88%) as type IV. Good correlation was observed between J'aw(NO) and FE(NO,50) (r=0.97). There was no association between J'aw(NO) and C(ANO). FEV1/FVC decreased significantly in type III (mean 79.8±7.5). Morbidity was significantly higher in types III and IV. Normal values obtained are similar to those previously reported. Asthmatics with high C(ANO) showed higher morbidity. No correlation was found between proximal and distal inflammation. Copyright © 2014 SEPAR. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

The Value of Harmonizing Multiple Improvement Technologies: A Process Improvement Professional’s View

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-03-01

maturity models and ISO standards, specifically CMMI, CMMI-ACQ and ISO 12207 . Also, the improvement group supplemented their selection of these...compliant with the technologies and standards that are important to the business. Lockheed Martin IS&GS has integrated CMMI, EIA 632, ISO 12207 , and Six...geographically dispersed organization. [Siviy 07-1] Northrop Grumman Mission Systems has integrated CMMI, ISO 9001, AS9100, and Six Sigma, as well as a

Community analysis of preservative-treated southern pine (Pinus spp.) using terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism (T-RFLP) analysis

Treesearch

Grant T. Kirker; M. Lynn Prewitt; Walter J. Diehl; Susan V. Diehl

2012-01-01

The effects of wood preservatives on the bacterial community in southern yellow pine were assessed by the molecular method ‘terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism’ (T-RFLP). Stakes, treated with 0.25 % and 0.37 % ammoniacal copper quat (ACQ-C), 0.1 % and 0.25 % chlorothalonil (CTN), 0.1 % and 0.25 % CTN with 2 % butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), and 2 % BHT...

Fast, multi-channel real-time processing of signals with microsecond latency using graphics processing units.

PubMed

Rath, N; Kato, S; Levesque, J P; Mauel, M E; Navratil, G A; Peng, Q

2014-04-01

Fast, digital signal processing (DSP) has many applications. Typical hardware options for performing DSP are field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), application-specific integrated DSP chips, or general purpose personal computer systems. This paper presents a novel DSP platform that has been developed for feedback control on the HBT-EP tokamak device. The system runs all signal processing exclusively on a Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) to achieve real-time performance with latencies below 8 μs. Signals are transferred into and out of the GPU using PCI Express peer-to-peer direct-memory-access transfers without involvement of the central processing unit or host memory. Tests were performed on the feedback control system of the HBT-EP tokamak using forty 16-bit floating point inputs and outputs each and a sampling rate of up to 250 kHz. Signals were digitized by a D-TACQ ACQ196 module, processing done on an NVIDIA GTX 580 GPU programmed in CUDA, and analog output was generated by D-TACQ AO32CPCI modules.

An Impending Post-Conflict Period, Global Financial Crisis, and Faltering U.S. Hegemony: How Ought U.S. Diplomacy Adapt?

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-06-13

above all negotiates.”3 Chief among a diplomat’s duties is the gathering of information that will help strategic decision makers in Washington...formulate foreign policies that serve the nation. A diplomat could be thought of as a “kind of licensed spy, he sends home information …[he is] the eyes...resources among the five member nations. Additional information available at: http://www.acq.osd.mil/ttcp/ 6 or tactics.”7 Historically these

Triphenylvinyl anthracene based emitter for non-doped blue light emitting devices with unusual emission behavior

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Islam, Amjad; Zhang, Dongdong; Usman, Khurram; Siddique, Ahmad Hassan; Wattoo, Abdul Ghafar; Khalid, Hamad; Ouyang, Xinhua; Duan, Lian; Ge, Ziyi

2018-05-01

A novel blue luminogen based on triphenylvinyl anthracene was synthesized. The photophysical, thermal and aggregation induced emission as well as electroluminescent properties were investigated. The luminogen demonstrated typical aggregation caused quenching (ACQ) effect. A non-doped organic light emitting device was fabricated and realized a current efficiency of 3.25 cd/A, an external quantum efficiency of 1.41%, power efficiency of 2.11 m/W and a maximum luminance of 11761.8 cd/m2 were achieved.

The Road To The Objective Force. Armaments for the Army Transformation

DTIC Science & Technology

2001-06-18

Vehicle Fire Support Vehicle •TOW 2B Anti-Tank Capability Under Armor •Detection of NBC Hazards Mortar Carrier •Dismounted M121 120mm MRT Initially...engaged from under armor M6 Launchers (x4) Staring Array Thermal Sight Height reduction for air transport Day Camera Target Acq Sight Armament Remote...PM BCT ANTI-TANK GUIDED MISSILE VEHICLE • TOWII • ITAS (Raytheon) - 2 Missiles • IBAS Day Camera • Missile is Remotely Fired Under Armor • M6 Smoke

Defense AT and L. Volume 28, Number 3, 2009

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-01-01

system to help create a defensible demand signal for people which can be funded and executed. This is fundamental to the successful execution of defense...The acq uisition wo rkforce is a ging and l osing talen t, and now is the time t o put plan s in place to keep th e workforc e operatin g at peak...workforce is critical for improving acquisition outcomes for the nation’s $1.6 trillion investment in acquisition systems and services. The new

Nanostructured porous carbons with high rate cycling and floating performance for supercapacitor application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ochai-Ejeh, F. O.; Momodu, D. Y.; Madito, M. J.; Khaleed, A. A.; Oyedotun, K. O.; Ray, S. C.; Manyala, N.

2018-05-01

Biomass-derived activated carbon from cork (Quercus Suber) (ACQS) was prepared via a two-step environment-friendly route using mild KHCO3 as the activating agent. This synthesis route makes the material produced less toxic for usage as electrode material for energy storage application. The ACQS has well-defined microporous and mesoporous structures and a specific surface area of 1056.52 m2 g-1 and pore volume of 0.64 cm3 g-1. Three-electrode tests were performed in 6 M KOH, 1 M H2SO4 and 3 M KNO3 aqueous electrolytes, to analyse the material performance in acidic, basic, and neutral media. Specific capacitance values (Cs) of 133 F g-1/167 F g-1 at 1.0 A g-1 was obtained in 3 M KNO3 in the positive/negative potential windows. Due to the observed best performance in neutral 3 M KNO3, further electrochemical analysis of the symmetric device was carried out using the same electrolyte. The device displayed a Cs value of 122 F g-1, energy and power densities of ˜14 W h kg-1 and 450 W kg-1 respectively; at 0.5 A g-1. The device also displayed an excellent stability after potentiostatic floating at a maximum voltage of 1.8 V for 120 h and ˜100% capacitance retention after 10,000 charge-discharge cycles. The excellent stability makes the cork-derived material a potential excellent, cost-effective material for supercapacitor application.

Horticultural therapy: a pilot study on modulating cortisol levels and indices of substance craving, posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, and quality of life in veterans.

PubMed

Detweiler, Mark B; Self, Jennifer A; Lane, Sandra; Spencer, Luise; Lutgens, Brian; Kim, Dong-Yun; Halling, Mary H; Rudder, Tammie C; Lehmann, Lauren P

2015-01-01

Horticultural therapy (HT) is a subgroup of occupational therapy (OT). Both HT and OT have been successful as adjunctive treatment modalities in substance abuse treatment. Studies have indicated that gardening promotes neuroendocrine and affective restoration from stress. The study intended to assess the effect of HT versus nonhorticultural OT on cortisol levels, depression, symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), alcohol cravings, and quality of life. The research team designed a randomized pilot study. The study was open for participation from July 2012-October 2012. It took place during multiple occurrences of a 28-d treatment programs for substance use disorder at a Veterans Affairs medical center. Participants • Participants were 49 veterans, averaging 46.4 y old (SD = 11.9); the dropout rate was 37%. Participants were randomly assigned to the HT or the OT group. They attended supervised HT and OT groups 5 h/d for 3 wk. Outcome Measures • Pre- and posttreatment, participants completed the Quality of Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction Questionnaire-Short Form (Q-LES-Q-SF), the Alcohol Craving Questionnaire (ACQ-NOW), the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist Civilian Version (PCLC), and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D). Salivary cortisol samples were taken at wk 1, 2, and 3. A repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) (F2,20 = 0.878) revealed that the HT performed was associated with a 12% reduction in salivary cortisol levels from wk 1 to wk 3, but the difference was not statistically significant (P = .43). Separate 1-way analyses of covariance (ANCOVAs) revealed no statistically significant differences in the self-administered tests, although both the Q-LES-Q-SF and CES-D showed a trend toward improving quality of life and depressive symptoms in the HT group compared with the OT group. Additional analysis of the nonbiologic tests suggests that most participants in the HT and OT had some benefit from the programmed activities. The trends suggest that HT may modulate stress in veterans, as evidenced by decreased cortisol levels and depressive symptoms, and may improve quality of life more than the programs in which the OT group participated. Further investigation with larger samples, including a nontreatment control group, is needed to determine whether the observed trends are treatment effects or due to abstinence.

AGM-88E Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile (AGM-88E AARGM)

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-12-01

0.0 0.0 Acq O&M 0.0 0.0 -- 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Total 1528.5 1661.1 N/A 2107.4 1861.4 2026.2 2663.7 1 APB Breach Confidence Level Confidence Level of...normal conditions, encountering average levels of technical, schedule, and programmatic risk and external interference. Based on the rigor in methods...SAR Baseline to Current SAR Baseline (TY $M) Initial PAUC Development Estimate Changes PAUC Production Estimate Econ Qty Sch Eng Est Oth Spt Total

C-5 Reliability Enhancement and Re-engining Program (C-5 RERP)

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-12-01

Production Estimate Current APB Production Objective/Threshold Demonstrated Performance Current Estimate Time To Climb/Initial Level Off 837,000 lbs...RCR - Runway Condition Reading SDD - System Design and Development SL - Sea Level C-5 RERP December 2015 SAR March 23, 2016 16:10:28 UNCLASSIFIED 12...5.3 5.3 Acq O&M 0.0 0.0 -- 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Total 7146.6 7135.7 N/A 6698.0 7694.1 7510.7 7066.6 Confidence Level Confidence Level of cost estimate

Joint Tactical Radio System Handheld, Manpack, and Small Form Fit Radios (JTRS HMS)

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-12-01

Waveform (SRW). It is the primary squad level communication system. The Manpack Radio is for use in a classified environment and ports the following...0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Acq O&M 0.0 0.0 -- 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 Total 8242.6 8242.6 N/A 8755.6 9201.0 9201.0 10907.0 Confidence Level Confidence Level of cost...acquisition programs in which the Department has been successful. It is difficult to calculate mathematically the precise confidence levels

Qualification Requirement Perceptions of the United States Army Acquisition Workforce Since Implementation of the Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA)

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-12-01

for the sake of learning is not the end, but only the means to an end ( Newman , 1947). The end is more about job impact and actual business results...requirements to what skills the employee actually needs to perform their job. The current cookie-cutter style of training requirements is a...acquisition process on the whole for large scale projects/programs. Acq. Level 2.5(B) - Based on the Parent program the employee works for and

CMMI (registered trademark) for Services (CMMI-SVC) Overview for Workshop

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-08-01

is from “DoD throws light on how it buys services [GCN 2006].” GAO data is from GAO report GAO-07-20. 5 CMMI for Services (CMMI-SVC) Forrester...Service Addition PAs 3 5 1 22 % of CMMI-DEV PAs are reused; % of Corporate Investments are potentially r usable! CMMI-DEV CMMI-ACQ CMMI-SVC 77...Service Modifications: •  21 amplification in 7 PAs •  5 added references •  1 modified PA (REQM) •  1 specific goal •  2 specific practices

Determination of size and sign of hetero-nuclear coupling constants from 2D 19F-13C correlation spectra.

PubMed

Ampt, Kirsten A M; Aspers, Ruud L E G; Dvortsak, Peter; van der Werf, Ramon M; Wijmenga, Sybren S; Jaeger, Martin

2012-02-01

Fluorinated organic compounds have become increasingly important within the polymer and the pharmaceutical industry as well as for clinical applications. For the structural elucidation of such compounds, NMR experiments with fluorine detection are of great value due to the favorable NMR properties of the fluorine nucleus. For the investigation of three fluorinated compounds, triple resonance 2D HSQC and HMBC experiments were adopted to fluorine detection with carbon and/or proton decoupling to yield F-C, F-C{H}, F-C{C(acq)} and F-C{H,C(acq)} variants. Analysis of E.COSY type cross-peak patterns in the F-C correlation spectra led, apart from the chemical shift assignments, to determination of size and signs of the J(CH), J(CF), and J(HF) coupling constants. In addition, the fully coupled F-C HMQC spectrum of steroid 1 was interpreted in terms of E.COSY type patterns. This example shows how coupling constants due to different nuclei can be determined together with their relative signs from a single spectrum. The analysis of cross-peak patterns, as presented here, not only provides relatively straightforward routes to the determination of size and sign of hetero-nuclear J-couplings in fluorinated compounds, it also provides new and easy ways for the determination of residual dipolar couplings and thus for structure elucidation. The examples and results presented in this study may contribute to a better interpretation and understanding of various F-C correlation experiments and thereby stimulate their utilization. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The Analysis of Social Insurance Benefits Provided for the Indonesian Military Personnel.

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-06-01

PROVIDED FOR THE IIDONESIA TI ’ "MITRV PFRF(CM’’ VEL LLa by Edy ’loeuroho 2Tune 1’lo 4 Thesis Advisor: Shu Liao A omroved ’or ivublic rloase, distribution...8217 :’ 0O 0 N 001~10 ia me o’r-4 aCQ - r . >4 4 r’ aden Co~ ’. n (D Z? 0~ =r en N --I a 4 P4 aI Ie 0 1 I I 10 0 0100 0 0 0 0 04 4 lI I I h E- 4 0:31 I. r A

[Effectiveness and practicality of an internet-based asthma refresher course for children and adolescents].

PubMed

Schmidt, A; Greuter, T; Möller, A; Steiß, J O

2014-04-01

The effectiveness and practicality of the "Luftikids" (www.luftikids.de) structured, internet-based asthma refresher course was evaluated in a pilot study with 53 patients (ages 8 - 14 years). All patients had previously participated in either an inpatient or outpatient asthma education program. This prospective study examined the effect of a 4-week refresher course on parameters such as asthma symptoms (coughing, dyspnea), the number of unscheduled doctor's visits, use of on-demand medications, number of days absent from school, and asthma monitoring using the Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) and lung function tests. The duration of program use and the number of logins was used to investigate acceptance of the game format. Data were collected at the beginning of the study and at 4 - 6 months after the end of the online refresher course. Significant changes were shown with regard to the decrease in intensity of asthma symptoms such as coughing (p = 0.001) and dyspnea (p = 0.007), reduction in the number of unscheduled doctor's visits (p = 0.005), the use of on-demand medications (4.0 ± 6.5 vs. 1.5 ± 4.9, p = < 0.002), and the number of days absent from school (1.2 ± 2.0 vs. 0.4 ± 1.2, p = 0.003). No changes in lung function parameters were observed. The "Luftikids" program was used for an average of 302.5 ± 210.9 minutes, and the number of logins was 14 ± 9. From their self-evaluations, the children and adolescents derived "much" to "very much" benefit. Only 7.5% reported no effect. Participation in the "Luftikids" internet-based asthma refresher course resulted in fewer asthma symptoms, a decrease in unscheduled doctor's visits, reduction in the use of on-demand medications, decrease in the number of days absent from school, and improved asthma knowledge. No effect in lung function could be demonstrated. The results support the effectiveness and good acceptance of an outpatient, internet-based asthma refresher course. Young asthma patients in particular can succeed with and be motivated by this form of refresher course. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Proton spectral editing in the inhomogeneous radiofrequency field of a surface coil using modified stimulated echoes.

PubMed

Lahrech, H; Briguet, A

1990-11-01

It is shown that the modified stimulated echo sequence, [theta](+/- x +/- y)-t1-[theta](+ x)-t2/2-[2 theta](+ x)-t2/2- [theta](+ x)-t1-Acq(+/- x +/- y), denoted as MSTE[2 theta]x according to the exciter phase of the 2 theta pulse, is able to perform proton spectral editing without difference spectra. On the other hand, this sequence appears to be suitable for spatial localization. Sensitivity and spatial selectivity of MSTE and conventional stimulated echo sequence (STE) are briefly compared. MSTE is applied to editing lactate in the rat brain using the locally restricted excitation of a surface coil.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lovell, Jack, E-mail: jack.lovell@durham.ac.uk; Culham Centre for Fusion Energy, Culham Science Centre, Abingdon, Oxon OX14 3DB; Naylor, Graham

A new resistive bolometer system has been developed for MAST-Upgrade. It will measure radiated power in the new Super-X divertor, with millisecond time resolution, along 16 vertical and 16 horizontal lines of sight. The system uses a Xilinx Zynq-7000 series Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) in the D-TACQ ACQ2106 carrier to perform real time data acquisition and signal processing. The FPGA enables AC-synchronous detection using high performance digital filtering to achieve a high signal-to-noise ratio and will be able to output processed data in real time with millisecond latency. The system has been installed on 8 previously unused channels of themore » JET vertical bolometer system. Initial results suggest good agreement with data from existing vertical channels but with higher bandwidth and signal-to-noise ratio.« less

Cosmic Origins Spectrograph: On-Orbit Performance of Target Acquisitions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Penton, Steven V.

2010-07-01

COS is a slit-less spectrograph with a very small aperture (R=1.2500). To achieve the desired wavelength accuracies, HST+COS must center the target to within 0.100 of the center of the aperture for the FUV channel, and 0.0400 for NUV. During SMOV and early Cycle 17 we fine-tuned the COS target acquisition (TA) procedures to exceed this accuracy for all three COS TA modes; NUV imaging, NUV spectroscopic, and FUV spectroscopic. In Cycle 17, we also adjusted the COSto- FGS offsets in the SIAF file. This allows us to recommend skipping the time consuming ACQ/SEARCH in cases where the target coordinates are well known. Here we will compare the on-orbit performance of all COS TA modes in terms of centering accuracy, efficiency, and required signal-to-noise (S/N).

An FPGA-based bolometer for the MAST-U Super-X divertor.

PubMed

Lovell, Jack; Naylor, Graham; Field, Anthony; Drewelow, Peter; Sharples, Ray

2016-11-01

A new resistive bolometer system has been developed for MAST-Upgrade. It will measure radiated power in the new Super-X divertor, with millisecond time resolution, along 16 vertical and 16 horizontal lines of sight. The system uses a Xilinx Zynq-7000 series Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) in the D-TACQ ACQ2106 carrier to perform real time data acquisition and signal processing. The FPGA enables AC-synchronous detection using high performance digital filtering to achieve a high signal-to-noise ratio and will be able to output processed data in real time with millisecond latency. The system has been installed on 8 previously unused channels of the JET vertical bolometer system. Initial results suggest good agreement with data from existing vertical channels but with higher bandwidth and signal-to-noise ratio.

Recent Advances in Macrocyclic Fluorescent Probes for Ion Sensing.

PubMed

Wong, Joseph K-H; Todd, Matthew H; Rutledge, Peter J

2017-01-25

Small-molecule fluorescent probes play a myriad of important roles in chemical sensing. Many such systems incorporating a receptor component designed to recognise and bind a specific analyte, and a reporter or transducer component which signals the binding event with a change in fluorescence output have been developed. Fluorescent probes use a variety of mechanisms to transmit the binding event to the reporter unit, including photoinduced electron transfer (PET), charge transfer (CT), Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET), excimer formation, and aggregation induced emission (AIE) or aggregation caused quenching (ACQ). These systems respond to a wide array of potential analytes including protons, metal cations, anions, carbohydrates, and other biomolecules. This review surveys important new fluorescence-based probes for these and other analytes that have been reported over the past five years, focusing on the most widely exploited macrocyclic recognition components, those based on cyclam, calixarenes, cyclodextrins and crown ethers; other macrocyclic and non-macrocyclic receptors are also discussed.

A Study of the Cost Savings Potential of the Military - Civilian Health Services Partnership Program in the Nuclear Medicine and Radioimmunoassay Services at Ireland Army Community Hospital, Fort Knox, Kentucky

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-01-01

Esophageal Studies Patient 1 Sequential Images for Transit and or Reflux 30 Computer Acq/Process 20 (b) Stomach Patient 1 Sequential Images Transit...132 141 119 113 150 159 152 124 1715 Liver-Spleen 8 12 7 9 7 5 6 14 5 13 12 12 110 Renal 10 9 19 8 7 8 15 8 7 9 7 7 114 Renal Reflux 4 2 1 0 0 0 0 2 0 0...Scan 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 Gastric Reflux 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 2 1-123 Thyroid 11 3 5 9 9 7 10 7 9 11 7 14 102 Thyroid Uptake 11 S 5 9 9 7 10 7 9

The role of questionnaires in the assessment of asthma control.

PubMed

Przybyszowski, Marek; Bochenek, Grażyna

2015-01-01

The achievement and the maintenance of asthma control is currently considered the main goal of asthma treatment. Recent guidelines recommend regular assessment of asthma control and indicate questionnaires as important tools that can facilitate its evaluation. Questionnaires relate to GINA or NAEPP guidelines. Questionnaires constitute complex numerical or categorical scales and consist of several to over a dozen questions relating to the patient's symptoms of asthma, limitations in daily activities and usage of rescue medications within a period of time. Each questionnaire is characterized by the features that affect its reliability and usefulness. In the following paper we discuss most of the questionnaires which assess asthma control. We focus on the items they include and present the results of studies that prove the effectiveness of individual questionnaires in assessment of asthma control. Attention was drawn to the patient groups to which the questionnaires are addressed. We list the features of the questionnaire which should be considered before choosing a test, so that it satisfies both the doctor's and the patient's needs. The role of questionnaires as the easy-to-use tools is growing steadily. Unfortunately, not all are available in Polish language. Conducting appropriate validation studies may allow to use many of them in Polish conditions.

78 FR 36643 - Proposed Information Collection (Wrist Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire) Activity...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-06-18

... Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire) Activity: Comment Request AGENCY: Veterans Benefits... ``OMB Control No. 2900--NEW (Wrist Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire)'' in any correspondence... Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire, VA Form 21-0960M-16. OMB Control Number: 2900-NEW (Wrist...

78 FR 36307 - Proposed Information Collection (Wrist Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire) Activity...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-06-17

... Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire) Activity: Comment Request AGENCY: Veterans Benefits... Control No. 2900-NEW (Wrist Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire)'' in any correspondence. During... Disability Benefits Questionnaire, VA Form 21-0960M-16. OMB Control Number: 2900-NEW (Wrist Conditions...

[Development of knowledge, attitude and practice questionnaire on prevention and control of occupational diseases].

PubMed

Gao, Yuan; Feng, Yuchao; Wang, Min; Su, Yiwei; Li, Yanhua; Wang, Zhi; Tang, Shihao

2015-04-01

To develop the knowledge, attitude and practice questionnaire on the prevention and control of occupational diseases for occupational groups, and to provide a convenient and effective tool for the survey of knowledge, attitude, and behavior on the prevention and control of occupational diseases in occupational groups and the evaluation of intervention effect. The initial questionnaire which was evaluated by the experts was used to carry out a pre-survey in Guangzhou, China. The survey results were statistically analyzed by t test, identification index method, correlation analysis, and Cronbach's a coefficient method. And then the questionnaire was further modified, and the content of the questionnaire was determined finally. After modification, there were 18 items on knowledge, 16 items on attitude, and 12 items on behavior in the "Knowledge, attitude and practice questionnaire on the prevention and control of occupational diseases for enterprise managers"; there were 19 items on knowledge, 10 items on attitude, and 11 items on behavior in the "Knowledge, attitude and practice questionnaire on the prevention and control of occupational diseases for workers". The knowledge, attitude and practice questionnaire on the prevention and control of occupational diseases for occupational groups is developed successfully, and it is a convenient and effective tool for the survey of knowledge, attitude, and behavior on the prevention and control of occupational diseases in occupational groups and the evaluation of intervention effect.

78 FR 36307 - Proposed Information Collection (Shoulder and Arm Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-06-17

... (Shoulder and Arm Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire) Activity: Comment Request AGENCY: Veterans... ``OMB Control No. 2900--NEW (Shoulder and Arm Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire)'' in any...: Shoulder and Arm Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire, VA Form 21-0960M-12. OMB Control Number...

Step 1: Human System Integration Simulation and Flight Test Progress Report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2005-01-01

The Access 5 Human Systems Integration Work Package produced simulation and flight demonstration planning products for use throughout the program. These included: Test Objectives for Command, Control, Communications; Pilot Questionnaire for Command, Control, Communications; Air Traffic Controller Questionnaire for Command, Control, Communications; Test Objectives for Collision Avoidance; Pilot Questionnaire for Collision Avoidance; Plans for Unmanned Aircraft Systems Control Station Simulations Flight Requirements for the Airspace Operations Demonstration

Fluorescent Sensors Based on Aggregation-Induced Emission: Recent Advances and Perspectives.

PubMed

Gao, Meng; Tang, Ben Zhong

2017-10-27

Fluorescent sensors with advantages of excellent sensitivity, rapid response, and easy operation are emerging as powerful tools in environmental monitoring, biological research, and disease diagnosis. However, conventional fluorophores featured with π-planar structures usually suffer from serious self-quenching in the aggregated state, poor photostability, and small Stokes' shift. In contrast to conventional aggregation-caused quenching (ACQ) fluorophores, the newly emerged aggregation-induced emission fluorogens (AIEgens) are featured with high emission efficiency in the aggregated state, which provide unique opportunities for various sensing applications with advantages of high signal-to-noise ratio, strong photostability, and large Stokes' shift. In this review, we will first briefly give an introduction of the AIE concept and the turn-on sensing principles. Then, we will discuss the recent examples of AIE sensors according to types of analytes. Finally, we will give a perspective on the future developments of AIE sensors. We hope this review will inspire more endeavors to devote to this emerging world.

Omalizumab Improves Quality of Life and Asthma Control in Chinese Patients With Moderate to Severe Asthma: A Randomized Phase III Study

PubMed Central

Li, Jing; Kang, Jian; Wang, Changzheng; Yang, Jing; Wang, Linda; Kottakis, Ioannis; Humphries, Michael

2016-01-01

Purpose Omalizumab is the preferred add-on therapy for patients with moderate-to-severe persistent allergic asthma and has demonstrated efficacy and safety in various ethnicities. This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of omalizumab in Chinese patients with moderate-to-severe allergic asthma. Methods This randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, placebo-controlled, phase III study assessed lung function, quality of life, asthma control, and safety of omalizumab after 24-week therapy in Chinese patients (18-75 years of age). Results A total of 616 patients were randomized (1:1) to omalizumab or placebo. The primary endpoint, least squares mean treatment difference (LSM-TD) in morning peak expiratory flow (PEF) (omalizumab vs placebo), at Weeks >20-24 was 8.85 L/min (Full analysis set; P=0.062). Per-protocol analysis set showed significant improvements with LSM-TD of 11.53 L/min in mean mPEF at Weeks >20-24 (P=0.022). The FEV1 % predicted was significantly improved with omalizumab vs placebo from 8 to 24 weeks (after 24-week treatment: LSM-TD=4.12%; P=0.001). At Week 24, a higher proportion of omalizumab-treated patients achieved clinically relevant improvements in standardized AQLQ (58.2% vs 39.3%; LSM=0.51 vs 0.10; P<0.001) and ACQ (49.5% vs 35.5%; LSM=-0.51 vs -0.34; P=0.002) scores vs placebo. Total and nighttime symptom scores reduced significantly with omalizumab vs placebo (LSM-TD=-0.21, P=0.048 and -0.12, P=0.011, respectively). Although the study was not powered to study differences in exacerbation rates (P=0.097), exacerbations in winter months were less frequent in the omalizumab vs placebo group (2 vs 21). Adverse event and severe adverse event rates were comparable between omalizumab and placebo. Conclusions Omalizumab improves lung function, quality of life, and asthma control in Chinese patients with moderate-to-severe persistent allergic asthma and has a good safety profile. PMID:27126725

Omalizumab Improves Quality of Life and Asthma Control in Chinese Patients With Moderate to Severe Asthma: A Randomized Phase III Study.

PubMed

Li, Jing; Kang, Jian; Wang, Changzheng; Yang, Jing; Wang, Linda; Kottakis, Ioannis; Humphries, Michael; Zhong, Nanshan

2016-07-01

Omalizumab is the preferred add-on therapy for patients with moderate-to-severe persistent allergic asthma and has demonstrated efficacy and safety in various ethnicities. This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of omalizumab in Chinese patients with moderate-to-severe allergic asthma. This randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, placebo-controlled, phase III study assessed lung function, quality of life, asthma control, and safety of omalizumab after 24-week therapy in Chinese patients (18-75 years of age). A total of 616 patients were randomized (1:1) to omalizumab or placebo. The primary endpoint, least squares mean treatment difference (LSM-TD) in morning peak expiratory flow (PEF) (omalizumab vs placebo), at Weeks >20-24 was 8.85 L/min (Full analysis set; P=0.062). Per-protocol analysis set showed significant improvements with LSM-TD of 11.53 L/min in mean mPEF at Weeks >20-24 (P=0.022). The FEV1 % predicted was significantly improved with omalizumab vs placebo from 8 to 24 weeks (after 24-week treatment: LSM-TD=4.12%; P=0.001). At Week 24, a higher proportion of omalizumab-treated patients achieved clinically relevant improvements in standardized AQLQ (58.2% vs 39.3%; LSM=0.51 vs 0.10; P<0.001) and ACQ (49.5% vs 35.5%; LSM=-0.51 vs -0.34; P=0.002) scores vs placebo. Total and nighttime symptom scores reduced significantly with omalizumab vs placebo (LSM-TD=-0.21, P=0.048 and -0.12, P=0.011, respectively). Although the study was not powered to study differences in exacerbation rates (P=0.097), exacerbations in winter months were less frequent in the omalizumab vs placebo group (2 vs 21). Adverse event and severe adverse event rates were comparable between omalizumab and placebo. Omalizumab improves lung function, quality of life, and asthma control in Chinese patients with moderate-to-severe persistent allergic asthma and has a good safety profile.

Automated processing of thermal infrared images of Osservatorio Vesuviano permanent surveillance network by using Matlab code

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sansivero, Fabio; Vilardo, Giuseppe; Caputo, Teresa

2017-04-01

The permanent thermal infrared surveillance network of Osservatorio Vesuviano (INGV) is composed of 6 stations which acquire IR frames of fumarole fields in the Campi Flegrei caldera and inside the Vesuvius crater (Italy). The IR frames are uploaded to a dedicated server in the Surveillance Center of Osservatorio Vesuviano in order to process the infrared data and to excerpt all the information contained. In a first phase the infrared data are processed by an automated system (A.S.I.R.A. Acq- Automated System of IR Analysis and Acquisition) developed in Matlab environment and with a user-friendly graphic user interface (GUI). ASIRA daily generates time-series of residual temperature values of the maximum temperatures observed in the IR scenes after the removal of seasonal effects. These time-series are displayed in the Surveillance Room of Osservatorio Vesuviano and provide information about the evolution of shallow temperatures field of the observed areas. In particular the features of ASIRA Acq include: a) efficient quality selection of IR scenes, b) IR images co-registration in respect of a reference frame, c) seasonal correction by using a background-removal methodology, a) filing of IR matrices and of the processed data in shared archives accessible to interrogation. The daily archived records can be also processed by ASIRA Plot (Matlab code with GUI) to visualize IR data time-series and to help in evaluating inputs parameters for further data processing and analysis. Additional processing features are accomplished in a second phase by ASIRA Tools which is Matlab code with GUI developed to extract further information from the dataset in automated way. The main functions of ASIRA Tools are: a) the analysis of temperature variations of each pixel of the IR frame in a given time interval, b) the removal of seasonal effects from temperature of every pixel in the IR frames by using an analytic approach (removal of sinusoidal long term seasonal component by using a polynomial fit Matlab function - LTFC_SCOREF), c) the export of data in different raster formats (i.e. Surfer grd). An interesting example of elaborations of the data produced by ASIRA Tools is the map of the temperature changing rate, which provide remarkable information about the potential migration of fumarole activity. The high efficiency of Matlab in processing matrix data from IR scenes and the flexibility of this code-developing tool proved to be very useful to produce applications to use in volcanic surveillance aimed to monitor the evolution of surface temperatures field in diffuse degassing volcanic areas.

78 FR 48941 - Agency Information Collection (Marital Status Questionnaire) Activity Under OMB Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-08-12

... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-0495] Agency Information Collection (Marital Status Questionnaire) Activity Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of...-0495.'' SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Title: Marital Status Questionnaire, VA Form 21-0537. OMB Control...

75 FR 26346 - Agency Information Collection (Marital Status Questionnaire) Activity Under OMB Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-05-11

... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-0495] Agency Information Collection (Marital Status Questionnaire) Activity Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of... refer to ``OMB Control No. 2900-0495.'' SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Title: Marital Status Questionnaire...

75 FR 10027 - Proposed Information Collection (Marital Status Questionnaire) Activity: Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-03-04

... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-0495] Proposed Information Collection (Marital Status Questionnaire) Activity: Comment Request AGENCY: Veterans Benefits Administration...: Marital Status Questionnaire, VA Form 21-0537. OMB Control Number: 2900-0495. Type of Review: Extension of...

Differential misclassification bias and dietary recall for the distant past using a food frequency questionnaire.

PubMed

Hislop, T G; Lamb, C W; Ng, V T

1990-01-01

Cases (n = 263) and controls (n = 200) returned self-administered food frequency questionnaires in 1980-1982 and again in 1986 as part of a case-control study of breast cancer. The questionnaire asked about consumption of specific food items as recalled for four different age periods. K-statistics comparing responses in the first and second questionnaires were generally similar for cases and controls and were consistent across the different age periods. The influence of recent dietary change on dietary recall diminished for the more distant past. The food frequency questionnaire was found to be more reliable for specific food items for the distant past than for the more recent past. Differential misclassification bias between cases and controls was less apparent for the more distant past. The frequency and interpretation of missing values is discussed.

Risk factors for idiopathic intracranial hypertension in men: a case-control study

PubMed Central

Fraser, J. Alexander; Bruce, Beau B.; Rucker, Janet; Fraser, Lisa-Ann; Atkins, Edward J.; Newman, Nancy J.; Biousse, Valérie

2009-01-01

Objective To identify risk factors for idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) in men Design Case-control study. A 96-item telephone questionnaire, answered retrospectively, with cases recalling at the age of their diagnosis and controls recalling at the age of their corresponding case's diagnosis. Setting Outpatient clinics in two US tertiary care centers Participants The characteristics of 24 men with IIH were compared to those of 48 controls matched for sex, age, race, and World Health Organization body mass index (BMI) category. Main Outcome Measures Two previously validated questionnaires: the ADAM (Androgen Deficiency in Aging Males) questionnaire for testosterone deficiency and the Berlin questionnaire for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), embedded within the telephone questionnaire. Analysis with Mantel-Haenszel odds ratios and mixed-effects logistic regression models accounted for matching. Results Cases and controls had similar enrollment matching characteristics. Although matching was successful by BMI category, there was a small difference between BMI values of cases and controls (cases: median 31.7, controls: median 29.9; p=0.03). After adjustment by BMI value, men with IIH were significantly more likely than controls to have a positive ADAM questionnaire for testosterone deficiency (OR: 17.4, 95% CI: 5.6-54.5; p<0.001) and significantly more likely to have either a positive Berlin questionnaire for OSA or history of diagnosed OSA (OR: 4.4, 95% CI: 1.5-12.9; p=0.03). Conclusions Men with IIH are more likely than controls to have symptoms associated with testosterone deficiency and OSA. These associations suggest a possible role for sex hormones and OSA in the pathogenesis of IIH in men. PMID:19945715

76 FR 33027 - Agency Information Collection (Supplemental Income Questionnaire (For Philippine Claims Only...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-06-07

... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-0668] Agency Information Collection (Supplemental Income Questionnaire (For Philippine Claims Only)) Activity Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans...: Supplemental Income Questionnaire (For Philippine Claims Only), VA Form 21-0784. OMB Control Number: 2900-0668...

A Meta-Analysis of the Convergent Validity of Self-Control Measures

PubMed Central

Duckworth, Angela Lee; Kern, Margaret L.

2011-01-01

There is extraordinary diversity in how the construct of self-control is operationalized in research studies. We meta-analytically examined evidence of convergent validity among executive function, delay of gratification, and self- and informant-report questionnaire measures of self-control. Overall, measures demonstrated moderate convergence (rrandom = .27 [95% CI = .24, .30]; rfixed = .34 [.33, .35], k = 282 samples, N = 33,564 participants), although there was substantial heterogeneity in the observed correlations. Correlations within and across types of self-control measures were strongest for informant-report questionnaires and weakest for executive function tasks. Questionnaires assessing sensation seeking impulses could be distinguished from questionnaires assessing processes of impulse regulation. We conclude that self-control is a coherent but multidimensional construct best assessed using multiple methods. PMID:21643479

76 FR 44087 - Agency Information Collection (Employment Questionnaire) Activity Under OMB Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-07-22

... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-0079] Agency Information Collection (Employment Questionnaire) Activity Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of... Questionnaire, VA Forms 21-4140 and 21-4140-1. OMB Control Number: 2900-0079. Type of Review: Extension of a...

75 FR 80114 - Agency Information Collection (Status of Dependents Questionnaire) Activity Under OMB Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-12-21

... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-0500] Agency Information Collection (Status of Dependents Questionnaire) Activity Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans Benefits Administration... Questionnaire, VA Form 21-0538. OMB Control Number: 2900-0500. Type of Review: Extension of a currently approved...

Feasibility of exercising adults with asthma: a randomized pilot study.

PubMed

Boyd, Amy; Yang, Celeste T; Estell, Kim; Ms, Craig Tuggle; Gerald, Lynn B; Dransfield, Mark; Bamman, Marcas; Bonner, James; Atkinson, T Prescott; Schwiebert, Lisa M

2012-08-03

Aerobic exercise appears to have clinical benefits for many asthmatics, yet a complete understanding of the mechanisms underlying these benefits has not been elucidated at this time. The objective of this study was to determine feasibility for a larger, future study that will define the effect of aerobic exercise on cellular, molecular, and functional measures in adults with mild-moderate asthma. Recruited subjects were randomized into usual care (sedentary) or usual care with moderate intensity aerobic exercise treatment groups. Nineteen adults with mild-moderate asthma but without a recent history of exercise were recruited at the UAB Lung Health Center, Birmingham, AL. The exercise group underwent a 12 week walking program exercising at 60 - 75% of maximum heart rate (HRmax). Subjects self-monitored HRmax levels using heart rate monitors; exercise diaries and recreation center sign-in logs were also used. Functional measures, including lung function and asthma control scores, were evaluated for all subjects at pre- and post-study time-points; fitness measures were also assessed for subjects in the exercise group. Peripheral blood and nasal lavage fluid were collected from all subjects at pre- and post-study visits in order to evaluate cellular and molecular measures, including cell differentials and eosinophilic cationic protein (ECP). Sixteen subjects completed the prescribed protocol. Results show that subjects randomized to the exercise group adhered well (80%) to the exercise prescription and exhibited a trend toward improved fitness levels upon study completion. Both groups exhibited improvements in ACQ scores. No changes were observed in lung function (FEV1, FEV1/FVC), cell differentials, or ECP between groups. Results indicate that a moderate intensity aerobic exercise training program may improve asthma control and fitness levels without causing asthma deterioration in adult asthmatics. As such, these findings demonstrate the feasibility of the study protocol in preparation for a larger, clinical trial that will elucidate the functional consequences of aerobic exercise on asthmatic cellular and molecular responses.

Cluster analysis of obesity and asthma phenotypes.

PubMed

Sutherland, E Rand; Goleva, Elena; King, Tonya S; Lehman, Erik; Stevens, Allen D; Jackson, Leisa P; Stream, Amanda R; Fahy, John V; Leung, Donald Y M

2012-01-01

Asthma is a heterogeneous disease with variability among patients in characteristics such as lung function, symptoms and control, body weight, markers of inflammation, and responsiveness to glucocorticoids (GC). Cluster analysis of well-characterized cohorts can advance understanding of disease subgroups in asthma and point to unsuspected disease mechanisms. We utilized an hypothesis-free cluster analytical approach to define the contribution of obesity and related variables to asthma phenotype. In a cohort of clinical trial participants (n = 250), minimum-variance hierarchical clustering was used to identify clinical and inflammatory biomarkers important in determining disease cluster membership in mild and moderate persistent asthmatics. In a subset of participants, GC sensitivity was assessed via expression of GC receptor alpha (GCRα) and induction of MAP kinase phosphatase-1 (MKP-1) expression by dexamethasone. Four asthma clusters were identified, with body mass index (BMI, kg/m(2)) and severity of asthma symptoms (AEQ score) the most significant determinants of cluster membership (F = 57.1, p<0.0001 and F = 44.8, p<0.0001, respectively). Two clusters were composed of predominantly obese individuals; these two obese asthma clusters differed from one another with regard to age of asthma onset, measures of asthma symptoms (AEQ) and control (ACQ), exhaled nitric oxide concentration (F(E)NO) and airway hyperresponsiveness (methacholine PC(20)) but were similar with regard to measures of lung function (FEV(1) (%) and FEV(1)/FVC), airway eosinophilia, IgE, leptin, adiponectin and C-reactive protein (hsCRP). Members of obese clusters demonstrated evidence of reduced expression of GCRα, a finding which was correlated with a reduced induction of MKP-1 expression by dexamethasone Obesity is an important determinant of asthma phenotype in adults. There is heterogeneity in expression of clinical and inflammatory biomarkers of asthma across obese individuals. Reduced expression of the dominant functional isoform of the GCR may mediate GC insensitivity in obese asthmatics.

Parental Control: A Second Cross-Cultural Research on Parenting and Psychological Adjustment of Children

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dwairy, Marwan; Achoui, Mustafa

2010-01-01

Parental control is among the important factors influencing the psychological development of children. In addition to other questionnaires, a questionnaire of father and mother control was administered to adolescents in nine countries. The results showed that parental control differs across cultures. Parental control was higher in the eastern than…

76 FR 67529 - 60-Day Notice of Proposed Information Collection: DS-5513, Supplemental Questionnaire To...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-11-01

..., Supplemental Questionnaire To Determine Entitlement for a U.S. Passport, 1405-XXXX ACTION: Notice of request... Questionnaire to Determine Entitlement for a U.S. Passport. OMB Control Number: None. Type of Request: Existing Collection in Use Without an OMB Control Number. Originating Office: Bureau of Consular Affairs, Passport...

Validation of English and Spanish-language versions of a screening questionnaire for rheumatoid arthritis in an underserved community.

PubMed

Potter, Jeffrey; Odutola, Jennifer; Gonzales, Christian Amurrio; Ward, Michael M

2008-08-01

Questionnaires to screen for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have been tested in groups that were primarily well educated and Caucasian. We sought to validate the RA questions of the Connective Tissue Disease Screening Questionnaire (CSQ) in ethnic minorities in an underserved community, and to test a Spanish-language version. The Spanish-language version was developed by 2 native speakers. Consecutive English-speaking or Spanish-speaking patients in a community-based rheumatology practice completed the questionnaire. Diagnoses were confirmed by medical record review. Sensitivity and specificity of the questionnaire for a diagnosis of RA were computed for each language version, using 2 groups as controls: patients with noninflammatory conditions, and participants recruited from the community. The English-language version was tested in 53 patients with RA (79% ethnic minorities; mean education level 11.3 yrs), 85 rheumatology controls with noninflammatory conditions, and 82 community controls. Using 3 positive responses as indicating a positive screening test, the sensitivity of the questionnaire was 0.77, the specificity based on rheumatology controls was 0.45, and the specificity based on community controls was 0.94. The Spanish-language version was tested in 55 patients with RA (mean education level 7.8 yrs), 149 rheumatology controls, and 88 community controls. The sensitivity of the Spanish-language version was 0.87, with specificities of 0.60 and 0.97 using the rheumatology controls and community controls, respectively. The sensitivity of the English-language version of the RA questions of the CSQ was lower in this study than in other cohorts, reflecting differences in the performance of the questions in different ethnic or socioeconomic groups. The Spanish-language version demonstrated good sensitivity, and both had excellent specificity when tested in community controls.

AIEgens-Functionalized Inorganic-Organic Hybrid Materials: Fabrications and Applications.

PubMed

Li, Dongdong; Yu, Jihong

2016-12-01

Inorganic materials functionalized with organic fluorescent molecules combine advantages of them both, showing potential applications in biomedicine, chemosensors, light-emitting, and so on. However, when more traditional organic dyes are doped into the inorganic materials, the emission of resulting hybrid materials may be quenched, which is not conducive to the efficiency and sensitivity of detection. In contrast to the aggregation-caused quenching (ACQ) system, the aggregation-induced emission luminogens (AIEgens) with high solid quantum efficiency, offer new potential for developing highly efficient inorganic-organic hybrid luminescent materials. So far, many AIEgens have been incorporated into inorganic materials through either physical doping caused by aggregation induced emission (AIE) or chemical bonding (e.g., covalent bonding, ionic bonding, and coordination bonding) caused by bonding induced emission (BIE) strategy. The hybrid materials exhibit excellent photoactive properties due to the intramolecular motion of AIEgens is restricted by inorganic matrix. Recent advances in the fabrication of AIEgens-functionalized inorganic-organic hybrid materials and their applications in biomedicine, chemical sensing, and solid-state light emitting are presented. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Characterization of Developmental- and Stress-Mediated Expression of Cinnamoyl-CoA Reductase in Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.)

PubMed Central

Lim, Hyoun-Sub; Park, Sang-Un; Bae, Hyeun-Jong; Natarajan, Savithiry

2014-01-01

Cinnamoyl-CoA reductase (CCR) is an important enzyme for lignin biosynthesis as it catalyzes the first specific committed step in monolignol biosynthesis. We have cloned a full length coding sequence of CCR from kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.), which contains a 1,020-bp open reading frame (ORF), encoding 339 amino acids of 37.37 kDa, with an isoelectric point (pI) of 6.27 (JX524276, HcCCR2). BLAST result found that it has high homology with other plant CCR orthologs. Multiple alignment with other plant CCR sequences showed that it contains two highly conserved motifs: NAD(P) binding domain (VTGAGGFIASWMVKLLLEKGY) at N-terminal and probable catalytic domain (NWYCYGK). According to phylogenetic analysis, it was closely related to CCR sequences of Gossypium hirsutum (ACQ59094) and Populus trichocarpa (CAC07424). HcCCR2 showed ubiquitous expression in various kenaf tissues and the highest expression was detected in mature flower. HcCCR2 was expressed differentially in response to various stresses, and the highest expression was observed by drought and NaCl treatments. PMID:24723816

Assessment of Crew Workload for the RAH-66 Comanche Force Development Experiment 1

DTIC Science & Technology

2001-10-01

Scale and a cockpit controls and displays usability questionnaire . Results of the assessment indicate that (a) workload was tolerable for the pilots...Workload Levels Between Front Seat and Back Seat 13 3.4 Pilot Responses to Controls and Displays Usability Questionnaire 13 3.5 HMD Symbology 13 4... questionnaire . The data were analyzed to determine if the pilot flying the aircraft (pilot on controls) and the pilot operating the mission equipment

Increasing response rates to follow-up questionnaires in health intervention research: Randomized controlled trial of a gift card prize incentive.

PubMed

Morgan, Amy J; Rapee, Ronald M; Bayer, Jordana K

2017-08-01

Background/aims Achieving a high response rate to follow-up questionnaires in randomized controlled trials of interventions is important for study validity. Few studies have tested the value of incentives in increasing response rates to online questionnaires in clinical trials of health interventions. This study evaluated the effect of a gift card prize-draw incentive on response rates to follow-up questionnaires within a trial of an online health intervention. Method The study was embedded in a host randomized controlled trial of an online parenting program for child anxiety. A total of 433 participants were randomly allocated to one of two groups: (1) being informed that they would enter a gift card prize-draw if they completed the final study questionnaire (24-week follow-up) and (2) not informed about the prize-draw. All participants had a 1 in 20 chance of winning an AUD50 gift card after they completed the online questionnaire. Results The odds of the informed group completing the follow-up questionnaire were significantly higher than the uninformed group, (79.6% vs 68.5%, odds ratio = 1.79, 95% confidence interval = 1.15-2.79). This response rate increase of 11.1% (95% confidence interval = 2.8-19.1) occurred in both intervention and control groups in the host randomized controlled trial. The incentive was also effective in increasing questionnaire commencement (84.6% vs 75.9%, odds ratio = 1.74, 95% confidence interval = 1.07-2.84) and reducing the delay in completing the questionnaire (19.9 vs 22.6 days, hazard ratio = 1.34, 95% confidence interval = 1.07-1.67). Conclusion This study adds to evidence for the effectiveness of incentives to increase response rates to follow-up questionnaires in health intervention trials.

76 FR 67528 - 60-Day Notice of Proposed Information Collection: DS-5520, Supplemental Questionnaire To...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-11-01

..., Supplemental Questionnaire To Determine Identity for a U.S. Passport, 1405-XXXX ACTION: Notice of request for... Questionnaire to Determine Identity for a U.S. Passport OMB Control Number: None Type of Request: Existing Collection in Use Without an OMB Control Number Originating Office: Bureau of Consular Affairs, Passport...

Test-retest reliability of a computer-assisted self-administered questionnaire on early life exposure in a nasopharyngeal carcinoma case-control study.

PubMed

Mai, Zhi-Ming; Lin, Jia-Huang; Chiang, Shing-Chun; Ngan, Roger Kai-Cheong; Kwong, Dora Lai-Wan; Ng, Wai-Tong; Ng, Alice Wan-Ying; Yuen, Kam-Tong; Ip, Kai-Ming; Chan, Yap-Hang; Lee, Anne Wing-Mui; Ho, Sai-Yin; Lung, Maria Li; Lam, Tai-Hing

2018-05-04

We evaluated the reliability of early life nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) aetiology factors in the questionnaire of an NPC case-control study in Hong Kong during 2014-2017. 140 subjects aged 18+ completed the same computer-assisted questionnaire twice, separated by at least 2 weeks. The questionnaire included most known NPC aetiology factors and the present analysis focused on early life exposure. Test-retest reliability of all the 285 questionnaire items was assessed in all subjects and in 5 subgroups defined by cases/controls, sex, time between 1 st and 2 nd questionnaire (2-29/≥30 weeks), education (secondary or less/postsecondary), and age (25-44/45-59/60+ years) at the first questionnaire. The reliability of items on dietary habits, body figure, skin tone and sun exposure in early life periods (age 6-12 and 13-18) was moderate-to-almost perfect, and most other items had fair-to-substantial reliability in all life periods (age 6-12, 13-18 and 19-30, and 10 years ago). Differences in reliability by strata of the 5 subgroups were only observed in a few items. This study is the first to report the reliability of an NPC questionnaire, and make the questionnaire available online. Overall, our questionnaire had acceptable reliability, suggesting that previous NPC study results on the same risk factors would have similar reliability.

78 FR 42982 - Submission for Review: Information Collection; Questionnaire for Non-Sensitive Positions (SF 85)

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-07-18

... OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT Submission for Review: Information Collection; Questionnaire for... collection request (ICR), Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Control No. 3206-NEW, for Questionnaire for... Questionnaire for Non-Sensitive Positions, SF 85, housed in a system named e-QIP (Electronic Questionnaires for...

75 FR 8985 - Notice of Proposed Information Collection: Comment Request; Employee Questionnaire and Complaint...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-02-26

... Information Collection: Comment Request; Employee Questionnaire and Complaint Intake AGENCY: Office of Labor... information: Title of Proposal: Employee Questionnaire and Complaint Intake. OMB Control Number, if applicable... questionnaire (in English, Spanish, and electronic versions) and a complaint intake form. The questionnaire may...

78 FR 68907 - Agency Information Collection (Elbow and Forearm Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-11-15

... Forearm Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire) Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans Benefits... Control No. 2900- NEW (Elbow and Forearm Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire)'' in any... Benefits Questionnaire)''. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Title: Elbow and Forearm Conditions Disability...

78 FR 68908 - Agency Information Collection (Ankle Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire) Under OMB Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-11-15

... Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire) Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans Benefits Administration...-- NEW (Ankle Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire)'' in any correspondence. FOR FURTHER... ``OMB Control No. 2900--NEW (Ankle Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire)''. SUPPLEMENTARY...

78 FR 68905 - Agency Information Collection (Wrist Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire) Under OMB Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-11-15

... Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire) Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans Benefits Administration...- NEW (Wrist Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire)'' in any correspondence. FOR FURTHER... ``OMB Control No. 2900-NEW (Wrist Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire)''. SUPPLEMENTARY...

[Two tools for health surveillance of job stress: the Karasek Job Content Questionnaire and the Siegrist Effort Reward Imbalance Questionnaire].

PubMed

Magnavita, N

2007-01-01

Occupational stress is currently studied by the Job Demand/Control model of Karasek, and the Effort/Reward Imbalance model of Siegrist. In this study we have translated into Italian and validated the short form of the Job Content Questionnaire (JCQ) and of the Effort Reward Imbalance Questionnaire (ERI). The questionnaires were applied to 531 health care workers during periodical medical examinations. Estimations of internal consistency, based on the correlation among the variables comprising the set (Cronbach's alpha), in each case were satisfactory (alpha ranging from 0.76 to 0.89), with the exception of the control" scale of JCQ (alpha = 0.57). Exploratory factor analysis showed that "control" scale of JCQ, and "reward" scale of ERI could be divided into two and, respectively, three sub-scales. The Karasek's and Siegrist's models made distinct contributions to explaining perceived work stress. Both JCQ and ERI questionnaire may be useful in occupational health.

78 FR 36306 - Proposed Information Collection (Neck (Cervical Spine) Conditions Disability Benefits...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-06-17

... (Cervical Spine) Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire) Activity: Comment Request AGENCY: Veterans... ``OMB Control No. 2900--NEW (Neck (Cervical Spine) Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire)'' in... (Cervical Spine) Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire) Disability Benefits Questionnaire, VA Form 21...

78 FR 65451 - Agency Information Collection (Neck (Cervical Spine) Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-10-31

... (Cervical Spine) Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire) Activity Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans... Control No. 2900-- NEW (Neck (Cervical Spine) Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire)'' in any...) Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire).'' SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Title: (Neck (Cervical Spine...

78 FR 65451 - Agency Information Collection (Shoulder and Arm Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-10-31

... and Arm Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire) Activity Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans... Control No. 2900- NEW (Shoulder and Arm Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire)'' in any... Benefits Questionnaire).'' SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Title: (Shoulder and Arm Conditions Disability...

75 FR 34758 - Proposed Information Collection; OMB Control Number 1018-0023; Migratory Bird Surveys

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-06-18

... randomly select migratory bird hunters; send them either a waterfowl questionnaire, a dove and band-tailed pigeon questionnaire, a woodcock questionnaire, or a snipe, rail, gallinule and coot questionnaire; and... regulations. The Sandhill Crane Harvest Survey is an annual questionnaire survey of people who obtained a...

Development of a theory-based questionnaire to assess structure and control in parent feeding (SCPF).

PubMed

Savage, Jennifer S; Rollins, Brandi Y; Kugler, Kari C; Birch, Leann L; Marini, Michele E

2017-01-26

Parents shape children's eating environments and act as powerful socialization agents, impacting young children's behavioral controls of food intake. Most feeding measures assess parents' use of control to manage children's intake of energy dense foods. The Structure and Control in Parent Feeding (SCPF) questionnaire was developed to assess more positive aspects of feeding practices with their young children -setting limits, providing routines-that promote self-regulation, as well as controlling feeding practices. A mixed method approach was used to develop the SCPF. In 2013, cognitive interviews informed the modification, deletion and/or replacement of items. In 2014, the survey was distributed statewide to mothers of toddlers aged 12 to 36 months participating in the Women, Infants, and Children program. In 2016, exploratory factor analyses was conducted to test our theoretical parenting model and content validity and criterion validity were assessed (n = 334). Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and second-order EFA revealed a 2-factor, 22-item Structure model and a 2-factor, 12-item Control model. Internal consistencies for all factors exceeded 0.70. As predicted, the Structure superfactor was positivity associated with responsiveness, whereas the Control superfactor was positively associated with demandingness on the Caregiver's Feeding Styles Questionnaire. The Structure subscales were also positively associated with mealtime behaviors and Control subscales were positively associated with control-oriented feeding measures from the Control in Parent Feeding Practices questionnaire. The SCPF questionnaire is a reliable tool that can be used to assess aspects of structure- and control-based feeding practices to better understand how parents feed their toddlers.

EATING DISORDERS AND DIET MANAGEMENT IN CONTACT SPORTS; EAT-26 QUESTIONNAIRE DOES NOT SEEM APPROPRIATE TO EVALUATE EATING DISORDERS IN SPORTS.

PubMed

Martínez Rodríguez, Alejandro; Vicente Salar, Néstor; Montero Carretero, Carlos; Cervelló Gimeno, Eduardo; Roche Collado, Enrique

2015-10-01

there is a growing concern in the appearance of eating disorders in athletes, especially those that practice sports grouped into weight categories. This affects the way athletes eat, using frequently unhealthy strategies to control weight, especially during the pre-competition period. this study analyses the prevalence of contact sports athletes in developing eating disorders, and how a controlled diet plan can reduce this risk. At the same time, it evaluates the use of the EAT-26 questionnaire to detect such disorders. a randomized frequency study was performed on 244 athletes (158 men, 86 women), who were separated into two groups: those that followed a diet plan given by a nutritionist, and a control group on a free diet. The athletes completed an EAT-26 questionnaire while participating in the University-level National Championships. the free diet group scored significantly higher on the questionnaire. Also, the female athletes controlled diet group scored significantly higher than their male counterparts. the results of the questionnaire indicate that an adequate nutritional program circumvents the use of unhealthy habits to control body weight and therefore avoids developing particular eating disorders. EAT-26 questionnaire does not seem the most appropriate tool to detect these disorders. Copyright AULA MEDICA EDICIONES 2014. Published by AULA MEDICA. All rights reserved.

Psychological characteristics of eating disorders as evidenced by the combined administration of questionnaires and two projective methods: the Tree Drawing Test (Baum Test) and the Sentence Completion Test.

PubMed

Mizuta, Ichiro; Inoue, Yoichi; Fukunaga, Tomoko; Ishi, Ryohei; Ogawa, Asao; Takeda, Masatoshi

2002-02-01

The objective of this study is to examine psychological/psychopathological characteristics of eating disorders and their subtypes through a combined administration of questionnaires and projective tests. Three questionnaires (Eating Disorder Inventory - 2, Social Adaptation Scale, Southern California University Eating Disorder Inventory - Revised) and two projective tests (the Tree Drawing Test [TDT, Baum Test], and the Sentence Completion Test [SCT]) were administered to 126 female patients between the ages of 15 and 30 years, with eating disorders according to DSM-IV criteria at our outpatient clinic, and to 54 sex- and age-matched control subjects. The purging subtypes of eating disorders (anorexia nervosa - binge-eating/purging type [ANBP] and bulimia nervosa - purging type [BNP]) were clearly differentiated from the controls, both by the questionnaires and the projective tests. Compared with the controls, ANBP/BNP showed more problematic profiles across the three questionnaires, drew smaller and poorer trees in TDT to a more left location on the drawing paper, and gave fewer positive, and more negative responses in SCT. In contrast, few significant differences were found between anorexia nervosa- restricting type (ANR) and the controls, and between ANBP and BNP. As a trend, however, ANR was consistently located between the controls and ANBP/BNP across the whole questionnaires and projective tests.

Questionnaire-based survey on structural quality of hospitals and nursing homes for the elderly, their staffing with infection control personal, and implementation of infection control measures in Germany

PubMed Central

Kramer, A.; Assadian, O.; Helfrich, J.; Krüger, C.; Pfenning, I.; Ryll, S.; Perner, A.; Loczenski, B.

2013-01-01

From January to May 2012, 1,860 hospitals throughout Germany received a questionnaire encompassing 77 items. Additionally, 300 outpatient care services and 310 nursing homes for elderly in Berlin also received a 10-item questionnaire asking on their implemented infection control practices. All questionnaires were anonymous. A total of 229 completed questionnaires from hospitals, 14 questionnaires from outpatient care services, and 16 questionnaires from nursing homes were eligible for further analysis. The lack of Infection Control physicians was identified as the largest issue. In hospitals sized 400–999 beds a gap of 71%, and in hospitals sized ≥1,000 beds a gap of 17% was reported. Depending on the number of hospital beds, 13–29% of hospitals sized ≥100 beds reported not havening one infection control nurse. Since based on the number of beds in larger institutions or in facilities caring for high-risk patients several infection control nurses may be required, the deficiency in infection control nurses may even be higher, particularly in secondary and tertiary care facilities. Furthermore, the analysis revealed that the legal requirements for surveillance and reporting of notifiable infectious diseases have not yet been implemented in 11% of the facilities. The implementation of antibiotic strategies did show significant gaps. However, deficiencies in the implemented measures for the prevention of surgical site infections were less frequent. Yet 12% of the participants did not have a dedicated infection control concept for their surgical services. Eight percent of hospitals were not prepared for an outbreak management and 10% did not have established regulations for wearing surgical scrubs. Deficiencies in waste disposal and the control of air-conditioning systems were also noted. Based on the results of this survey, conclusions on the optimal resource allocation for further improvement of patient safety may be drawn. While all participating nursing homes had some sort of infection control consultation, this only applied to 12 out of 16 outpatient nursing services. However, all 16 nursing services worked on the basis of an implemented infection control plan. Though legally binding hygiene recommendations have not yet been implemented for nursing homes, the necessity of infection control to assure patient safety has obviously been recognised throughout these services. PMID:23967397

78 FR 34708 - Proposed Information Collection (Ankle Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire) Activity...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-06-10

... Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire) Activity: Comment Request AGENCY: Veterans Benefits... Disability Benefits Questionnaire)'' in any correspondence. During the comment period, comments may be viewed... Questionnaire, VA Form 21-0960M-2. OMB Control Number: 2900--NEW (Ankle Conditions Disability Benefits...

78 FR 36304 - Proposed Information Collection (Hip and Thigh Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-06-17

... and Thigh Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire) Activity: Comment Request AGENCY: Veterans... ``OMB Control No. 2900--NEW (Hip and Thigh Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire)'' in any...

78 FR 38098 - Proposed Information Collection (Knee and Lower Leg Disability Benefits Questionnaire) Activity...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-06-25

... and Lower Leg Disability Benefits Questionnaire) Activity: Comment Request AGENCY: Veterans Benefits... ``OMB Control No. 2900-NEW (Knee and Lower Leg Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire)'' in any... INFORMATION: Title: Knee and Lower Leg Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire, VA Form 21-0960M-9. OMB...

Safety and walking ability of KAFO users with the C-Brace® Orthotronic Mobility System, a new microprocessor stance and swing control orthosis

PubMed Central

Pröbsting, Eva; Kannenberg, Andreas; Zacharias, Britta

2016-01-01

Background: There are clear indications for benefits of stance control orthoses compared to locked knee ankle foot orthoses. However, stance control orthoses still have limited function compared with a sound human leg. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential benefits of a microprocessor stance and swing control orthosis compared to stance control orthoses and locked knee ankle foot orthoses in activities of daily living. Study design: Survey of lower limb orthosis users before and after fitting of a microprocessor stance and swing control orthosis. Methods: Thirteen patients with various lower limb pareses completed a baseline survey for their current orthotic device (locked knee ankle foot orthosis or stance control orthosis) and a follow-up for the microprocessor stance and swing control orthosis with the Orthosis Evaluation Questionnaire, a new self-reported outcome measure devised by modifying the Prosthesis Evaluation Questionnaire for use in lower limb orthotics and the Activities of Daily Living Questionnaire. Results: The Orthosis Evaluation Questionnaire results demonstrated significant improvements by microprocessor stance and swing control orthosis use in the total score and the domains of ambulation (p = .001), paretic limb health (p = .04), sounds (p = .02), and well-being (p = .01). Activities of Daily Living Questionnaire results showed significant improvements with the microprocessor stance and swing control orthosis with regard to perceived safety and difficulty of activities of daily living. Conclusion: The microprocessor stance and swing control orthosis may facilitate an easier, more physiological, and safer execution of many activities of daily living compared to traditional leg orthosis technologies. Clinical relevance This study compared patient-reported outcomes of a microprocessor stance and swing control orthosis (C-Brace) to those with traditional knee ankle foot orthosis and stance control orthosis devices. The C-Brace offers new functions including controlled knee flexion during weight bearing and dynamic swing control, resulting in significant improvements in perceived orthotic mobility and safety. PMID:27151648

Safety and walking ability of KAFO users with the C-Brace® Orthotronic Mobility System, a new microprocessor stance and swing control orthosis.

PubMed

Pröbsting, Eva; Kannenberg, Andreas; Zacharias, Britta

2017-02-01

There are clear indications for benefits of stance control orthoses compared to locked knee ankle foot orthoses. However, stance control orthoses still have limited function compared with a sound human leg. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential benefits of a microprocessor stance and swing control orthosis compared to stance control orthoses and locked knee ankle foot orthoses in activities of daily living. Survey of lower limb orthosis users before and after fitting of a microprocessor stance and swing control orthosis. Thirteen patients with various lower limb pareses completed a baseline survey for their current orthotic device (locked knee ankle foot orthosis or stance control orthosis) and a follow-up for the microprocessor stance and swing control orthosis with the Orthosis Evaluation Questionnaire, a new self-reported outcome measure devised by modifying the Prosthesis Evaluation Questionnaire for use in lower limb orthotics and the Activities of Daily Living Questionnaire. The Orthosis Evaluation Questionnaire results demonstrated significant improvements by microprocessor stance and swing control orthosis use in the total score and the domains of ambulation ( p = .001), paretic limb health ( p = .04), sounds ( p = .02), and well-being ( p = .01). Activities of Daily Living Questionnaire results showed significant improvements with the microprocessor stance and swing control orthosis with regard to perceived safety and difficulty of activities of daily living. The microprocessor stance and swing control orthosis may facilitate an easier, more physiological, and safer execution of many activities of daily living compared to traditional leg orthosis technologies. Clinical relevance This study compared patient-reported outcomes of a microprocessor stance and swing control orthosis (C-Brace) to those with traditional knee ankle foot orthosis and stance control orthosis devices. The C-Brace offers new functions including controlled knee flexion during weight bearing and dynamic swing control, resulting in significant improvements in perceived orthotic mobility and safety.

Sino-Nasal Outcome Test-22: Translation, Cross-cultural Adaptation, and Validation in Hebrew-Speaking Patients.

PubMed

Shapira Galitz, Yael; Halperin, Doron; Bavnik, Yosef; Warman, Meir

2016-05-01

To perform the translation, cross-cultural adaptation, and validation of the Sino-Nasal Outcome Test-22 (SNOT-22) questionnaire to the Hebrew language. A single-center prospective cross-sectional study. Seventy-three chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) patients and 73 patients without sinonasal disease filled the Hebrew version of the SNOT-22 questionnaire. Fifty-one CRS patients underwent endoscopic sinus surgery, out of which 28 filled a postoperative questionnaire. Seventy-three healthy volunteers without sinonasal disease also answered the questionnaire. Internal consistency, test-retest reproducibility, validity, and responsiveness of the questionnaire were evaluated. Questionnaire reliability was excellent, with a high internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha coefficient, 0.91-0.936) and test-retest reproducibility (Spearman's coefficient, 0.962). Mean scores for the preoperative, postoperative, and control groups were 50.44, 29.64, and 13.15, respectively (P < .0001 for CRS vs controls, P < .001 for preoperative vs postoperative), showing validity and responsiveness of the questionnaire. The Hebrew version of SNOT-22 questionnaire is a valid outcome measure for patients with CRS with or without nasal polyps. © American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery Foundation 2016.

Controlled trial of the effect of length, incentives, and follow-up techniques on response to a mailed questionnaire.

PubMed

Hoffman, S C; Burke, A E; Helzlsouer, K J; Comstock, G W

1998-11-15

Mailed questionnaires are an economical method of data collection for epidemiologic studies, but response tends to be lower than for telephone or personal interviews. As part of a follow-up study of volunteers who provided a brief health history and blood sample for a blood specimen bank in 1989, the authors conducted a controlled trial of the effect of length, incentives, and follow-up techniques on response to a mailed questionnaire. Interventions tested included variations on length of the questionnaire, effect of a monetary incentive, and effect of a postcard reminder versus a letter accompanied by a second questionnaire. Response was similar for the short (16-item, 4-page) and long (76-item, 16-page) questionnaire groups. The non-monetary [corrected] incentive did not improve the frequency of response. The second mailing of a questionnaire was significantly better than a postcard reminder in improving responses (23% vs. 10%). It is important to systematically test marketing principles to determine which techniques are effective in increasing response to mailed questionnaires for epidemiologic studies.

76 FR 51065 - Information Collection Request Under OMB Review

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-08-17

... (NAC) Questionnaire for Peace Corps Volunteer Background Investigation (OMB Control Number 0420-0001... Questionnaire for Peace Corps Volunteer Background Investigation (OMB Control Number 0420-0001) requests only... the proposed collection of information, including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used...

Increasing response rates to postal questionnaires: systematic review

PubMed Central

Edwards, Phil; Roberts, Ian; Clarke, Mike; DiGuiseppi, Carolyn; Pratap, Sarah; Wentz, Reinhard; Kwan, Irene

2002-01-01

Objective To identify methods to increase response to postal questionnaires. Design Systematic review of randomised controlled trials of any method to influence response to postal questionnaires. Studies reviewed 292 randomised controlled trials including 258 315 participants Intervention reviewed 75 strategies for influencing response to postal questionnaires. Main outcome measure The proportion of completed or partially completed questionnaires returned. Results The odds of response were more than doubled when a monetary incentive was used (odds ratio 2.02; 95% confidence interval 1.79 to 2.27) and almost doubled when incentives were not conditional on response (1.71; 1.29 to 2.26). Response was more likely when short questionnaires were used (1.86; 1.55 to 2.24). Personalised questionnaires and letters increased response (1.16; 1.06 to 1.28), as did the use of coloured ink (1.39; 1.16 to 1.67). The odds of response were more than doubled when the questionnaires were sent by recorded delivery (2.21; 1.51 to 3.25) and increased when stamped return envelopes were used (1.26; 1.13 to 1.41) and questionnaires were sent by first class post (1.12; 1.02 to 1.23). Contacting participants before sending questionnaires increased response (1.54; 1.24 to 1.92), as did follow up contact (1.44; 1.22 to 1.70) and providing non-respondents with a second copy of the questionnaire (1.41; 1.02 to 1.94). Questionnaires designed to be of more interest to participants were more likely to be returned (2.44; 1.99 to 3.01), but questionnaires containing questions of a sensitive nature were less likely to be returned (0.92; 0.87 to 0.98). Questionnaires originating from universities were more likely to be returned than were questionnaires from other sources, such as commercial organisations (1.31; 1.11 to 1.54). Conclusions Health researchers using postal questionnaires can improve the quality of their research by using the strategies shown to be effective in this systematic review. What is already known on this topicPostal questionnaires are widely used in the collection of data in epidemiological studies and health researchNon-response to postal questionnaires reduces the effective sample size and can introduce biasWhat this study addsThis systematic review includes more randomised controlled trials than any previously published review or meta-analysis no questionnaire responseThe review has identified effective ways to increase response to postal questionnairesThe review will be updated regularly in the Cochrane Library PMID:12016181

Initial validation of two opiate craving questionnaires the obsessive compulsive drug use scale and the desires for drug questionnaire.

PubMed

Franken, Ingmar H A; Hendriksa, Vincent M; van den Brink, Wim

2002-01-01

In the present study, the factor structure, internal consistency, and the concurrent validity of two heroin craving questionnaires are examined. The Desires for Drug Questionnaire (DDQ) measures three factors: desire and intention, negative reinforcement, and control. The Obsessive Compulsive Drug Use Scale (OCDUS) also measures three factors: thoughts about heroin and interference, desire and control, and resistance to thoughts and intention. Subjects were 102 Dutch patients who were currently in treatment for drug dependency. All proposed scales have good reliability and concurrent validity. Implementation of these instruments in both clinical and research field is advocated.

78 FR 44625 - Proposed Information Collection (Wrist Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire) Activity...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-07-24

... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-NEW] Proposed Information Collection (Wrist Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire) Activity: Withdrawal AGENCY: Veterans Benefits Administration... proposed information collection titled ``Wrist Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire, VA Form 21...

78 FR 68906 - Agency Information Collection (Back (Thoracolumbar Spine) Conditions Disability Benefits...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-11-15

... (Thoracolumbar Spine) Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire) Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans Benefits... Control No. 2900- NEW (Back (Thoracolumbar Spine) Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire)'' in any... Disability Benefits Questionnaire)''. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Title: (Back (Thoracolumbar Spine...

A chemotype that inhibits three unrelated pathogenic targets: the botulinum neurotoxin serotype A light chain, P. falciparum malaria, and the Ebola filovirus.

PubMed

Opsenica, Igor; Burnett, James C; Gussio, Rick; Opsenica, Dejan; Todorović, Nina; Lanteri, Charlotte A; Sciotti, Richard J; Gettayacamin, Montip; Basilico, Nicoletta; Taramelli, Donatella; Nuss, Jonathan E; Wanner, Laura; Panchal, Rekha G; Solaja, Bogdan A; Bavari, Sina

2011-03-10

A 1,7-bis(alkylamino)diazachrysene-based small molecule was previously identified as an inhibitor of the botulinum neurotoxin serotype A light chain metalloprotease. Subsequently, a variety of derivatives of this chemotype were synthesized to develop structure-activity relationships, and all are inhibitors of the BoNT/A LC. Three-dimensional analyses indicated that half of the originally discovered 1,7-DAAC structure superimposed well with 4-amino-7-chloroquinoline-based antimalarial agents. This observation led to the discovery that several of the 1,7-DAAC derivatives are potent in vitro inhibitors of Plasmodium falciparum and, in general, are more efficacious against CQ-resistant strains than against CQ-susceptible strains. In addition, by inhibiting β-hematin formation, the most efficacious 1,7-DAAC-based antimalarials employ a mechanism of action analogous to that of 4,7-ACQ-based antimalarials and are well tolerated by normal cells. One candidate was also effective when administered orally in a rodent-based malaria model. Finally, the 1,7-DAAC-based derivatives were examined for Ebola filovirus inhibition in an assay employing Vero76 cells, and three provided promising antiviral activities and acceptably low toxicities.

A chemotype that inhibits three unrelated pathogenic targets: the botulinum neurotoxin serotype A light chain, P. falciparum malaria, and the Ebola filovirus

PubMed Central

Opsenica, Igor; Burnett, James C.; Gussio, Rick; Opsenica, Dejan; Todorović, Nina; Lanteri, Charlotte A.; Sciotti, Richard J.; Gettayacamin, Montip; Basilico, Nicoletta; Taramelli, Donatella; Nuss, Jonathan E.; Wanner, Laura; Panchal, Rekha G.; Šolaja, Bogdan A.; Bavari, Sina

2011-01-01

A 1,7-bis(alkylamino)diazachrysene-based small molecule was previously identified as an inhibitor of the botulinum neurotoxin serotype A light chain metalloprotease. Subsequently, a variety of derivatives of this chemotype were synthesized to develop structure-activity relationships, and all are inhibitors of the BoNT/A LC. Three-dimensional analyses indicated that half of the originally discovered 1,7-DAAC structure superimposed well with 4-amino-7-chloroquinoline-based antimalarial agents. This observation led to the discovery that several of the 1,7-DAAC derivatives are potent in vitro inhibitors of Plasmodium falciparum, and in general, are more efficacious against CQ-resistant strains than against CQ-susceptible strains. In addition, by inhibiting β-hematin formation, the most efficacious 1,7-DAAC-based antimalarials employ a mechanism of action analogous to that of 4,7-ACQ-based antimalarials, and are well tolerated by normal cells. One candidate was also effective when administered orally in a rodent-based malaria model. Finally, the 1,7-DAAC-based derivatives were examined for Ebola filovirus inhibition in an assay employing Vero76 cells, and three provided promising antiviral activities and acceptably low toxicities. PMID:21265542

Cosmic Origins Spectrograph : Target Acquisition Performance and Updated Guidelines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Penton, Steven V.; Keyes, C.; Osterman, S.; Sahnow, D.; Soderblom, D.; COS IDT Team; STScI COS Team

2010-01-01

The Cosmic Origins Spectrograph (COS) is a slit-less spectrograph with a very small aperture (radius = 1.25"). To achieve the desired wavelength accuracy of <15 km/s, HST+COS must center the target to within 0.1” of the center of the aperture. This is the angle subtended by a typical AAS poster when viewed from over 1400 miles away. During SMOV we have fine-tuned the COS target acquisition (TA) procedures to exceed this accuracy for all three COS TA modes; NUV imaging, NUV spectroscopic, and FUV spectroscopic. We will compare all COS TA modes in terms of centering accuracy, efficiency (elapsed time), and required signal-to-noise for all targets suitable for use with COS. We will also provide updated recommendations for the options of all TA modes (e.g., SCAN-SIZE and NUM-POS of ACQ/PEAKD). We have observed in SMOV that HST is providing an excellent initial 1-σ blind pointing accuracy of ±0.4” in both the along-dispersion and cross-dispersion directions. We will discuss the implications of this, and other lessons learned in SMOV, on Cycle 17 and 18 HST+COS TAs.

Coatings to reduce wood preservative leaching.

PubMed

Nejad, Mojgan; Cooper, Paul

2010-08-15

The efficiency of semitransparent penetrating stains to reduce leaching of wood preservative components was evaluated. Five commercial wood deck finishes were applied to untreated and chromated copper arsenate (CCA), alkaline copper quat (ACQ), and copper azole (CA) treated wood, and leachates were collected and analyzed during 3 years of natural weathering exposure in Toronto, Canada. All stains evaluated effectively reduced the cumulative leaching of all inorganic preservative components by about 60% on average. Although most coatings showed significant film degradation starting around 12 months, the reduced leaching persisted even after 3 years. This suggests that temporary protection of wood with a coating during the early stages of use resulted in long-term reduction in preservative leaching potential. A two-week screening leaching test was able to predict the long-term leaching performance of different coatings reasonably well. Cured coating glass transition temperature (Tg) and liquid coating viscosity were the most important variables affecting a leaching prediction model. To effectively reduce leaching of preservative components from treated wood, coatings should have Tg low enough to withstand stresses caused by freezing in winter and have adequate viscosity to form a barrier film layer on the wood surface.

Effect of Cooling Rate on Microstructure and Centerline Segregation of a High-Strength Steel for Shipbuilding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ye, Qibin; Liu, Zhenyu; Wang, Guodong

Ultra-fast cooling (UFC) has been increasingly applied in industry, but accompanying with great changes of rolling strategy. It is therefore of importance to evaluate the characteristics of steels produced by UFC as compared to those processed by conventional accelerated cooling (ACQ. The present study examines the microstructure through thickness and centerline segregation of solute elements between UFC and ACC steels, both of which were rolled at a final rolling temperature at around non-recrystallized temperature. UFC steel showed the pronounced microstructural transition from lath-type bainite with Widmanstätten ferrite at subsurface to acicular ferrite in an average size of 5 µm dispersed with degenerate pearlite in the interior. In contrast, ACC steel had the homogeneous microstructure through the thickness, which was distinguished with coarser polygonal ferrite grains and pearlite nodules. Moreover, the centerline segregation was significantly suppressed by applying UFC at a higher cooling rate of 40 K/s compared to 17K/s for ACC steel. The significant differences in the microstructure and centerline segregation caused by various cooling rate is discussed from the view of γ→α transformation.

Validity test of the IPD-Work consortium approach for creating comparable job strain groups between Job Content Questionnaire and Demand-Control Questionnaire.

PubMed

Choi, Bongkyoo; Ko, Sangbaek; Ostergren, Per-Olof

2015-01-01

This study aims to test the validity of the IPD-Work Consortium approach for creating comparable job strain groups between the Job Content Questionnaire (JCQ) and the Demand-Control Questionnaire (DCQ). A random population sample (N = 682) of all middle-aged Malmö males and females was given a questionnaire with the 14-item JCQ and 11-item DCQ for the job control and job demands. The JCQ job control and job demands scores were calculated in 3 different ways: using the 14-item JCQ standard scale formulas (method 1); dropping 3 job control items and using the 11-item JCQ standard scale formulas with additional scale weights (method 2); and the approach of the IPD Group (method 3), dropping 3 job control items, but using the simple 11-item summation-based scale formulas. The high job strain was defined as a combination of high demands and low control. Between the 2 questionnaires, false negatives for the high job strain were much greater than false positives (37-49% vs. 7-13%). When the method 3 was applied, the sensitivity of the JCQ for the high job strain against the DCQ was lowest (0.51 vs. 0.60-0.63 when the methods 1 and 2 were applied), although the specificity was highest (0.93 vs. 0.87-0.89 when the methods 1 and 2 were applied). The prevalence of the high job strain with the JCQ (the method 3 was applied) was considerably lower (4-7%) than with the JCQ (the methods 1 and 2 were applied) and the DCQ. The number of congruent cases for the high job strain between the 2 questionnaires was smallest when the method 3 was applied. The IPD-Work Consortium approach showed 2 major weaknesses to be used for epidemiological studies on the high job strain and health outcomes as compared to the standard JCQ methods: the greater misclassification of the high job strain and lower prevalence of the high job strain. This work is available in Open Access model and licensed under a CC BY-NC 3.0 PL license.

78 FR 18678 - Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Information Collection; Comment Request...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-03-27

... Activities; Proposed Information Collection; Comment Request: Examination Questionnaire AGENCY: Office of the... titled, ``Examination Questionnaire.'' DATES: Comments must be submitted by May 28, 2013. ADDRESSES... information collection: Title: Examination Questionnaire. OMB Control No.: 1557-0199. Affected Public...

78 FR 68907 - Agency Information Collection (Hand and Finger Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-11-15

... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-NEW] Agency Information Collection (Hand and... written comments on the collection of information through www.Regulations.gov , or to Office of... Control No. 2900- NEW (Hand and Finger Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire)'' in any...

HIV and measures to control infection in general practice.

PubMed Central

Foy, C; Gallagher, M; Rhodes, T; Setters, J; Philips, P; Donaldson, C; Bond, J; Moore, M; Naji, S

1990-01-01

OBJECTIVE--To assess the impact of HIV on procedures to control infection in general practices. DESIGN--A postal questionnaire survey. SETTING--General practices throughout Britain. SUBJECTS--5359 General practitioners, 3429 (63.9%) of whom returned the questionnaire. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE--Response to questionnaire on knowledge about HIV and policies for controlling infection. RESULTS--Most doctors (2018) had started to wear gloves when taking blood. Almost half (1510) had not resheathed needles previously but a further 776 had adopted this policy because of HIV. Over half of the doctors did not know or were unsure about the risk of infection from needlestick injuries, and 1759 had no practice policy for controlling infection. CONCLUSIONS--Many doctors are uncertain about measures to control infection in general practice. More information and advice are needed to help doctors develop policies to protect patients and staff. PMID:2344517

Development and psychometric pilot-testing of a questionnaire for the evaluation of satisfaction with continuing education in infection control nurses.

PubMed

Meng, Michael; Peter, Daniel; Mattner, Frauke; Igel, Christoph; Kugler, Christiane

2018-05-16

Satisfaction with continuing education can be defined as positive attitudes towards educational programs, which has potential to strengthen learning outcomes. A multi-dimensional construct may enhance continuing education program evaluation processes. The objective is to describe the development and psychometric testing of the 'affective - behavioral - cognitive - satisfaction questionnaire' (ABC-SAT) for assessing participants' satisfaction with a continuing education program for nurses in infection control. The multi-staged development of a satisfaction questionnaire comprised of three subscales. The pilot tool was administered to a nationwide sample of 126 infection control nurses to assess satisfaction after participating in a continuing education program. Satisfaction scores were calculated and psychometric testing was performed to determine reliability, using Cronbach's alpha, face validity, objectivity, and economy. A principle component analysis using varimax rotation and Kaiser normalization was performed. The analysis led to a three-factor solution of the questionnaire with 11 items, explaining 61.4% of the variance. Internal consistency of three scales using Cronbach's alpha was 0.83, 0.60, and 0.66, respectively. Selectivity coefficients varied between 0.39 and 0.70. Participants needed approximately three minutes to complete the questionnaire. Initial findings refer to a satisfying scale structure and internal consistency of the 3-dimensional ABC-SAT questionnaire. Further research is required to confirm the questionnaires' psychometric properties. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

76 FR 27386 - Proposed Information Collection (Employment Questionnaire) Activity; Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-05-11

... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-0079] Proposed Information Collection (Employment Questionnaire) Activity; Comment Request AGENCY: Veterans Benefits Administration, Department of... use of other forms of information technology. Title: Employment Questionnaire, VA Forms 21-4140 and 21...

78 FR 46422 - Proposed Information Collection (Status of Dependents Questionnaire) Activity: Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-07-31

... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-0500] Proposed Information Collection (Status of Dependents Questionnaire) Activity: Comment Request AGENCY: Veterans Benefits Administration... use of other forms of information technology. Title: Status of Dependents Questionnaire, VA Form 21...

75 FR 62636 - Proposed Information Collection (Status of Dependents Questionnaire) Activity: Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-10-12

... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-0500] Proposed Information Collection (Status of Dependents Questionnaire) Activity: Comment Request AGENCY: Veterans Benefits Administration... use of other forms of information technology. Title: Status of Dependents Questionnaire, VA Form 21...

78 FR 36308 - Proposed Information Collection: (Back (Thoracolumbar Spine) Conditions Disability Benefits...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-06-17

... (Thoracolumbar Spine) Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire) Activity: Comment Request AGENCY: Veterans...--NEW (Collection (Back (Thoracolumbar Spine) Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire)'' in any... (Thoracolumbar Spine) Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire, VA Form 21-0960M-14. OMB Control Number: 2900...

Study designs may influence results: the problems with questionnaire-based case-control studies on the epidemiology of glioma.

PubMed

Johansen, Christoffer; Schüz, Joachim; Andreasen, Anne-Marie Serena; Dalton, Susanne Oksbjerg

2017-03-28

Glioma is a rare brain tumour with a very poor prognosis and the search for modifiable factors is intense. We reviewed the literature concerning risk factors for glioma obtained in case-control designed epidemiological studies in order to discuss the influence of this methodology on the observed results. When reviewing the association between three exposures, medical radiation, exogenous hormone use and allergy, we critically appraised the evidence from both case-control and cohort studies. For medical radiation and hormone replacement therapy (HRT), questionnaire-based case-control studies appeared to show an inverse association, whereas nested case-control and cohort studies showed no association. For allergies, the inverse association was observed irrespective of study design. We recommend that the questionnaire-based case-control design be placed lower in the hierarchy of studies for establishing cause-and-effect for diseases such as glioma. We suggest that a state-of-the-art case-control study should, as a minimum, be accompanied by extensive validation of the exposure assessment methods and the representativeness of the study sample with regard to the exposures of interest. Otherwise, such studies cannot be regarded as 'hypothesis testing' but only 'hypothesis generating'. We consider that this holds true for all questionnaire-based case-control studies on cancer and other chronic diseases, although perhaps not to the same extent for each exposure-outcome combination.

76 FR 16858 - Proposed Information Collection (Supplemental Income Questionnaire (for Philippine Claims Only...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-03-25

... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-0668] Proposed Information Collection (Supplemental Income Questionnaire (for Philippine Claims Only)); Comment Request AGENCY: Veterans Benefits... techniques or the use of other forms of information technology. Title: Supplemental Income Questionnaire (for...

78 FR 34708 - Proposed Information Collection (Foot (Including Flatfeet (pes planus)) Conditions Disability...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-06-10

... (Including Flatfeet (pes planus)) Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire) Activity: Comment Request...)) Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire)'' in any correspondence. During the comment period, comments...)) Conditions Disability Benefits Questionnaire), VA Form 21-0960M-6. OMB Control Number: 2900--NEW (Foot...

The health burden of breast hypertrophy.

PubMed

Kerrigan, C L; Collins, E D; Striplin, D; Kim, H M; Wilkins, E; Cunningham, B; Lowery, J

2001-11-01

Women seeking consultation for the surgical relief of symptoms associated with breast hypertrophy have been the focus of many studies. In contrast, little is known about those women with breast hypertrophy who do not seek symptomatic relief. The purpose of this study was to describe the health burden of breast hypertrophy by using a set of validated questionnaires and to compare women with breast hypertrophy who seek surgical treatment with those who do not. In addition, this latter group was compared with a group of control women without breast hypertrophy. Women seeking consultation for surgery were recruited from 14 plastic-surgery practices. Control subjects were recruited by advertisements in primary-care offices and newspapers. Women were asked to complete a self-report questionnaire that included the European Quality of Life (EuroQol) questionnaire, McGill Pain Questionnaire, Multidimensional Body Self Relations Questionnaire (MBSRQ), the Short Form-36 (SF-36) questionnaire, and questions regarding breast-related symptoms, comorbidities, and bra size. Descriptive statistics were compiled for three groups of women: (1) hypertrophy patients seeking surgical care, (2) hypertrophy control subjects (those whose reported bra-cup size was a D or larger), and (3) normal control subjects (those whose reported bra-cup size was an A, B, or C). The multiple linear regression method was used to compare the health burdens across groups while adjusting for other variables. Two hundred ninety-one women seeking surgical care and 195 control subjects were enrolled in the study. The 184 control subjects with bra-cup information available were further separated into 88 hypertrophy control subjects and 96 normal control subjects. In the control group, bra-cup size was correlated with health-burden measures, whereas in the surgical candidates, it was not. When scores were compared across the three groups, significant differences were found in all health-burden measures. The surgical candidates scored more poorly on the EuroQol utility, McGill pain rating index, MBSRQ appearance evaluation, physical component scale of the SF-36, and on breast symptoms than did the two control groups. In addition, the hypertrophy control subjects scored more poorly than the normal control subjects. With multiple linear regression analysis incorporating important potential confounders, the poorer scores in the surgical candidates remained statistically significant. It was concluded that breast hypertrophy in those seeking surgical care and those not seeking surgery has a significant impact on women's quality of life as measured by validated and widely used self-report instruments including the EuroQol, MBSRQ, McGill Pain Questionnaire, and the SF-36. Likewise, a new assessment instrument for breast-related symptoms also demonstrated greater symptomatology in women with breast hypertrophy.

Development and evaluation of an electromagnetic hypersensitivity questionnaire for Japanese people

PubMed Central

Tokiya, Mikiko; Mizuki, Masami; Miyata, Mikio; Kanatani, Kumiko T.; Takagi, Airi; Tsurikisawa, Naomi; Kame, Setsuko; Katoh, Takahiko; Tsujiuchi, Takuya; Kumano, Hiroaki

2016-01-01

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the validity and reliability of a Japanese version of an electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EHS) questionnaire, originally developed by Eltiti et al. in the United Kingdom. Using this Japanese EHS questionnaire, surveys were conducted on 1306 controls and 127 self‐selected EHS subjects in Japan. Principal component analysis of controls revealed eight principal symptom groups, namely, nervous, skin‐related, head‐related, auditory and vestibular, musculoskeletal, allergy‐related, sensory, and heart/chest‐related. The reliability of the Japanese EHS questionnaire was confirmed by high to moderate intraclass correlation coefficients in a test–retest analysis, and high Cronbach's α coefficients (0.853–0.953) from each subscale. A comparison of scores of each subscale between self‐selected EHS subjects and age‐ and sex‐matched controls using bivariate logistic regression analysis, Mann–Whitney U‐ and χ 2 tests, verified the validity of the questionnaire. This study demonstrated that the Japanese EHS questionnaire is reliable and valid, and can be used for surveillance of EHS individuals in Japan. Furthermore, based on multiple logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic analyses, we propose specific preliminary criteria for screening EHS individuals in Japan. Bioelectromagnetics. 37:353–372, 2016. © 2016 The Authors. Bioelectromagnetics Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. PMID:27324106

High school students' perceptions of EFL teacher control orientations and their English academic achievement.

PubMed

Kiany, Gholam Reza; Shayestefar, Parvaneh

2011-09-01

BACKGROUND. Theories distinguish between student-initiated and teacher-initiated regulation of students' learning activities, or between strong, shared, or loose teacher control during the completion of learning tasks. Empirical validations for such distinctions are scarce, however. AIM. The present study aimed at (a) investigating students' perceptions of control behaviours exhibited by their English teachers; and (b) exploring the contribution of different types of teacher control behaviours to students' cognitive outcomes (English Achievement). SAMPLE. The sample comprised 732 English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students studying in three major fields of high school (Mathematics, Natural Science, and Humanities). The participants (16-17 years of age) were selected from third-grade classes of 27 EFL teachers working in 25 high schools of 6 main different geographical regions in the Isfahan province, Iran. METHOD. To obtain a comprehensive picture of different control types exhibited by Iranian EFL teachers, the control subscales of the two existing questionnaires, i.e., the Questionnaire on Instructional Behaviours (QIB), adapted by Den Brok et al. (2004) and the Questionnaire on Lesson Activities (QLA) used by Den Brok (2001) were merged to form the Questionnaire of Teacher Control (QTC). The development of this Persian instrument involved several steps: translation and back translation by the researchers, one expert translator, and two EFL teachers; piloting; and a final administration of the questionnaire to the student sample. With respect to the second aim of the study, data regarding students' performances on the Standardized National English Achievement Tests were gathered from local educational offices and schools. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION. Statistical analyses supported acceptable reliability and validity of the instrument. A main factor structure with three types of teacher control (strong/high, shared/mid, and loose/low) was found to underlie students' perceptions. The results of multi-level analyses indicated that a relatively large amount of variance was explained by the control variables and student variables, and teacher control had a statistically significant effect on student outcomes. Students' English achievement was lowest when they felt control was their teachers' prerogative, higher when they themselves exerted their own control (low teacher control), and highest under shared (mid) control behaviours. ©2010 The British Psychological Society.

Identification of patients with gout: elaboration of a questionnaire for epidemiological studies.

PubMed

Richette, P; Clerson, P; Bouée, S; Chalès, G; Doherty, M; Flipo, R M; Lambert, C; Lioté, F; Poiraud, T; Schaeverbeke, T; Bardin, T

2015-09-01

In France, the prevalence of gout is currently unknown. We aimed to design a questionnaire to detect gout that would be suitable for use in a telephone survey by non-physicians and assessed its performance. We designed a 62-item questionnaire covering comorbidities, clinical features and treatment of gout. In a case-control study, we enrolled patients with a history of arthritis who had undergone arthrocentesis for synovial fluid analysis and crystal detection. Cases were patients with crystal-proven gout and controls were patients who had arthritis and effusion with no monosodium urate crystals in synovial fluid. The questionnaire was administered by phone to cases and controls by non-physicians who were unaware of the patient diagnosis. Logistic regression analysis and classification and regression trees were used to select items discriminating cases and controls. We interviewed 246 patients (102 cases and 142 controls). Two logistic regression models (sensitivity 88.0% and 87.5%; specificity 93.0% and 89.8%, respectively) and one classification and regression tree model (sensitivity 81.4%, specificity 93.7%) revealed 11 informative items that allowed for classifying 90.0%, 88.8% and 88.5% of patients, respectively. We developed a questionnaire to detect gout containing 11 items that is fast and suitable for use in a telephone survey by non-physicians. The questionnaire demonstrated good properties for discriminating patients with and without gout. It will be administered in a large sample of the general population to estimate the prevalence of gout in France. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.

Advance telephone calls ahead of reminder questionnaires increase response rate in non-responders compared to questionnaire reminders only: The RECORD phone trial.

PubMed

MacLennan, Graeme; McDonald, Alison; McPherson, Gladys; Treweek, Shaun; Avenell, Alison

2014-01-08

Postal questionnaires are simple and economical for collecting outcome data for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) but are prone to non-response. In the RECORD trial (a large pragmatic publicly funded RCT in UK) non-responders were sent a reminder and another questionnaire at 1 year, of which 40% were returned. In subsequent years we investigated the effect of an advance telephone call to non-responders on responses rate to reminder questionnaires and the next questionnaire 4 months later. Non-responders to annual questionnaires were randomised to receive a telephone call from the trial office ahead of the reminder questionnaire in addition to the usual reminder schedule (n=390) or to a control group that received the usual reminder schedule only (n=363). The primary outcome was response to the reminder questionnaire within 21 days; secondary outcomes were response to a questionnaire 4 months later; completeness of quality of life instruments; and the number of participants declining further follow-up. Results are presented as odds ratios from a logistic regression intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis and then percentage difference and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for both ITT and average treatment effect on the treated (ATT) analyses. The proportions that responded were 67.8% (265/390) in the intervention group compared to 62.5% (227/363) in the control group. The ITT estimate was a 5.4% increase (95% CI -1.4 to 12.2). Four months later percentages responding were 51.8% (202) and 42.7% (155). The ITT estimate was a 9.1% increase (95% CI 2.0 to 16.2). In the intervention group 12.3% (48/390) of participants were not telephoned because questionnaires were returned before the scheduled telephone call. ATT estimates adjusting for this were 6.2% (95% CI -1.6 to 14.0) and 10.4% (95% CI 2.2 to 18.5), respectively. The telephone call resulted in a slight increase in response to the reminder questionnaire, however at 4 months later the proportion in the telephoned group responding was greater. This study suggests that pre-notification telephone calls may only be worthwhile if further questionnaires are to be sent out soon after reminder questionnaires. Current Clinical Trials ISRCTN51647438.

76 FR 65742 - Notice of Proposed Information Collection for Public Comment; Inspector Candidate Assessment...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-10-24

... Information Collection for Public Comment; Inspector Candidate Assessment Questionnaire AGENCY: Office of the... following information: Title of Proposal: Inspector Candidate Assessment Questionnaire. OMB Control Number... trained and certified by HUD are requested to electronically submit the questionnaire via the Internet...

Healthy eating opinion survey for individuals at risk for cardiovascular disease.

PubMed

Mark, Amy E; Riley, Dana L; McDonnell, Lisa A; Pipe, Andrew L; Reid, Robert D

2014-08-01

To develop and evaluate the validity and reliability of a questionnaire to measure intentions and beliefs about healthy eating in individuals at risk for coronary heart disease. The Healthy Eating Opinion Survey was developed using the theory of planned behavior. An open-ended elicitation questionnaire was administered to 21 participants, and a 46-item questionnaire was developed for further testing. Test-retest reliability of each question on the survey was assessed by calculating the correlation coefficients between the responses over a 2- week period in 17 participants. Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach's alpha, and factor analysis was used to assess the construct validity of the questionnaire in a sample of 388 participants. The responses to the elicitation questions were used to develop behavioral beliefs, normative beliefs, and control beliefs questions for the final questionnaire. Test-retest reliability ranged from 0.22-0.90, with the majority (89%) of correlations being moderate to strong. Internal consistency was good, with Cronbach's alpha ranging from 0.74-0.92. All intentions questions loaded onto a single factor; attitude questions loaded onto two factors; subjective norm questions loaded onto two factors; perceived behavioral control questions loaded onto one factor; behavioral beliefs questions loaded onto one factor; normative beliefs questions loaded onto one factor; and control beliefs questions loaded onto one factor. The questionnaire was found to be a reliable, valid questionnaire to assess beliefs and intentions toward eating a healthy diet in individuals at risk for coronary heart disease.

78 FR 57925 - Agency Information Collection (Pension Claim Questionnaire for Farm Income) Activity Under OMB...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-09-20

... Claim Questionnaire for Farm Income) Activity Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans Benefits Administration... INFORMATION: Title: Pension Claim Questionnaire for Farm Income, VA Form 21- 4165. OMB Control Number: 2900... to gather information necessary to determine a claimant's countable annual income and available...

77 FR 39318 - 30-Day Notice of Proposed Information Collection: DS-5513, Supplemental Questionnaire To...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-07-02

..., Supplemental Questionnaire To Determine Entitlement for a U.S. Passport, 1405-XXXX ACTION: Notice of request... Information Collection: Supplemental Questionnaire to Determine Entitlement for a U.S. Passport OMB Control...: Bureau of Consular Affairs, Passport Services, Office of Project Management and Operational Support...

76 FR 53883 - Proposed Information Collection; Comment Request; NOAA Satellite Ground Station Customer...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-08-30

... Collection; Comment Request; NOAA Satellite Ground Station Customer Questionnaire AGENCY: National Oceanic... questionnaire about the types of data received, its use, the equipment involved, and similar subjects. The data... questionnaire. III. Data OMB Control Number: 0648-0227. Form Number: None. Type of Review: Regular submission...

Visual imaging capacity and imagery control in Fine Arts students.

PubMed

Pérez-Fabello, Maria José; Campos, Alfredo; Gómez-Juncal, Rocío

2007-06-01

This study investigated relationships between visual imaging abilities (imaging capacity and imagery control) and academic performance in 146 Fine Arts students (31 men, 115 women). Mean age was 22.3 yr. (SD= 1.9; range 20-26 yr.). All of the participants who volunteered for the experiment regularly attended classes and were first, second, or third year students. For evaluation of imaging abilities, the Spanish versions of the Gordon Test of Visual Imagery Control, the Vividness of Visual Imagery Questionnaire, the Verbalizer-Visualizer Questionnaire, and Betts' Questionnaire Upon Mental Imagery were used. Academic performance was assessed in four areas, Drawing, Painting, Sculpture, and Complementary Subjects, over a three-year period. The results indicate that imagery control was associated with academic performance in Fine Arts. These findings are discussed in the context of previous studies, and new lines of research are proposed.

Design and validation of a comprehensive fecal incontinence questionnaire.

PubMed

Macmillan, Alexandra K; Merrie, Arend E H; Marshall, Roger J; Parry, Bryan R

2008-10-01

Fecal incontinence can have a profound effect on quality of life. Its prevalence remains uncertain because of stigma, lack of consistent definition, and dearth of validated measures. This study was designed to develop a valid clinical and epidemiologic questionnaire, building on current literature and expertise. Patients and experts undertook face validity testing. Construct validity, criterion validity, and test-retest reliability was undertaken. Construct validity comprised factor analysis and internal consistency of the quality of life scale. The validity of known groups was tested against 77 control subjects by using regression models. Questionnaire results were compared with a stool diary for criterion validity. Test-retest reliability was calculated from repeated questionnaire completion. The questionnaire achieved good face validity. It was completed by 104 patients. The quality of life scale had four underlying traits (factor analysis) and high internal consistency (overall Cronbach alpha = 0.97). Patients and control subjects answered the questionnaire significantly differently (P < 0.01) in known-groups validity testing. Criterion validity assessment found mean differences close to zero. Median reliability for the whole questionnaire was 0.79 (range, 0.35-1). This questionnaire compares favorably with other available instruments, although the interpretation of stool consistency requires further research. Its sensitivity to treatment still needs to be investigated.

Comparison between exercise performance in asthmatic children and healthy controls--Physical Activity Questionnaire application.

PubMed

Santos-Silva, Rita; Melo, Cláudia; Gonçalves, Daniel; Coelho, Janine; Carvalho, Fernanda

2014-01-01

The PAQ questionnaire (Physical Activity Questionnaire - Kowalski, Crocker, Donen) is a self-administered 7-day recall validated questionnaire that measures physical activity levels in young people. A final activity score is obtained (1 indicates low and 5 indicates high physical activity level). Our aim was to determine whether there was any difference between the level of physical activity of children with controlled allergic disease and healthy children. We used the PAQ questionnaire with a group of asthmatic children attending hospital outpatient clinic and a group of healthy children matched for age. 155 children with allergic disease (median age of 11 years; 63% males) and 158 healthy controls (median age of 10 years; 46% males) answered the questionnaire. There were no differences in the overall level of physical activity, estimated by PAQ score, between allergic and healthy children (2,40±0,7 vs 2,48±0,62; p=0,32). Performance in physical education classes and after school sports activity was found to be different between the study groups; healthy children were more active (p=0,011) and did more sports between 6 and 10 pm (p=0,036). No other statistically significant differences were found between the study groups. Despite the fact that a majority of the parents of allergic children stated that their child's disease was a barrier to physical activity, in our study there seems to be no difference between the level of physical activity of controlled asthmatic children and their healthy peers. Copyright © 2013 Sociedade Portuguesa de Pneumologia. Published by Elsevier España. All rights reserved.

A screening questionnaire for voice problems after treatment of early glottic cancer

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Gogh, Christine D.L. van; Verdonck-de Leeuw, Irma M.; Boon-Kamma, Brigitte A.

Purpose: After treatment for early glottic cancer, a considerable number of patients end up with voice problems interfering with daily life activities. A 5-item screening questionnaire was designed for detection of voice impairment. The purpose of this study is to assess psychometric properties of this questionnaire in clinical practice. Methods and Materials: The questionnaire was completed by 110 controls without voice complaints and 177 patients after radiotherapy or laser surgery for early glottic cancer. Results: Based on normative data of the controls, a score of 5 or less on at least 1 of the 5 questions was considered to statemore » overall voice impairment. Reliability of the questionnaire proved to be good. Voice impairment was reported in 44% of the patients treated with radiotherapy vs. 29% of the patients treated with endoscopic laser surgery. Conclusions: The questionnaire proved to be a reliable, valid, and feasible method to detect voice impairment in daily life. The questionnaire is easy to fill in, and interpretation is straightforward. It is useful for both radiation oncologists and otorhinolaryngologists in their follow-up of patients treated for early glottic cancer.« less

The effect of postal questionnaire burden on response rate and answer patterns following admission to intensive care: a randomised controlled trial.

PubMed

Hatch, Robert; Young, Duncan; Barber, Vicki; Harrison, David A; Watkinson, Peter

2017-03-27

The effects of postal questionnaire burden on return rates and answers given are unclear following treatment on an intensive care unit (ICU). We aimed to establish the effects of different postal questionnaire burdens on return rates and answers given. Design: A parallel group randomised controlled trial. We assigned patients by computer-based randomisation to one of two questionnaire packs (Group A and Group B). Patients from 26 ICUs in the United Kingdom. Patients who had received at least 24 h of level 3 care and were 16 years of age or older. Patients did not know that there were different questionnaire burdens. The study included 18,490 patients. 12,170 were eligible to be sent a questionnaire pack at 3 months. We sent 12,105 questionnaires (6112 to group A and 5993 to group B). The Group A pack contained demographic and EuroQol group 5 Dimensions 3 level (EQ-5D-3 L) questionnaires, making four questionnaire pages. The Group B pack also contained the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Score (HADS) and the Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Check List-Civilian (PCL-C) questionnaires, making eight questionnaire pages in total. Questionnaire return rate 3 months after ICU discharge by group. In group A, 2466/6112 (40.3%) participants responded at 3 months. In group B 2315/ 5993 (38.6%) participants responded (difference 1.7% CI for difference 0-3.5% p = 0.053). Group A reported better functionality than group B in the EQ-5D-3 L mobility (41% versus 37% reporting no problems p = 0.003) and anxiety/depression (59% versus 55% reporting no problems p = 0.017) domains. In survivors of intensive care, questionnaire burden had no effect on return rates. However, questionnaire burden affected answers to the same questionnaire (EQ-5D-3 L). ISRCTN69112866 (assigned 02/05/2006).

Social and Economic Costs of Food Allergies in Europe: Development of a Questionnaire to Measure Costs and Health Utility

PubMed Central

Fox, Margaret; Voordouw, Jantine; Mugford, Miranda; Cornelisse, Judith; Antonides, Gerrit; Frewer, Lynn

2009-01-01

Objectives To develop a questionnaire to measure the additional social costs of food allergies (FAs). Data Source and Study Setting People with FAs and sampled members of the general population (with and without FAs) in the Netherlands and the United Kingdom in 2006. Study Design (1) Literature review. (2) Focus group to identify key costs of FAs and seek views on the questionnaires. (3) Pilot survey to test the questionnaires in cases and controls. Data Collection Twenty-eight participants in the United Kingdom and the Netherlands with clinically or self-diagnosed FAs took part in one of five focus groups. A case–control postal survey was conducted in the United Kingdom and the Netherlands (with 125 FA cases and 62 controls). Principal Findings Methods exist to measure social costs in chronic illness, but not FAs. Focus groups found features of FAs likely to impact costs of living. Pilot results suggest higher costs of living and health care costs, and well-being in FAs. Conclusion The questionnaire is proposed for use in wider European and other comparative studies of FAs. PMID:19619251

The Attitudes & Beliefs on Classroom Control Inventory-Revised and Revisited: A Continuation of Construct Validation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Martin, Nancy K.; Yin, Zenong; Mayall, Hayley

2008-01-01

The purpose of this study was to report the psychometric properties of the revised Attitudes and Beliefs of Classroom Control Inventory (ABCC-R). Data were collected from 489 participants via the ABCC-R, Teacher Efficacy Scale, Problems in School Questionnaire, and a demographic questionnaire. Results were in keeping with the construct. The…

The Development of an Aftermath of Dietary Lapses Coping Questionnaire for Weight Control

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shimpo, Misa; Akamatsu, Rie

2015-01-01

Objective: This study was designed to develop the Aftermath of Dietary Lapses Coping Questionnaire (ADLCQ) for evaluating how people cope with the aftermath of dietary lapses during weight control. Method: Between June-July 2012, dieticians working in public health centres and city offices in Sizuoka, Japan, recruited 466 participants. They were…

Psychometric properties of the Alabama parenting questionnaire-preschool revision.

PubMed

Clerkin, Suzanne M; Marks, David J; Policaro, Katia L; Halperin, Jeffrey M

2007-03-01

The psychometric properties of the Alabama Parenting Questionnaire-Preschool Revision (APQ-PR) were explored in a sample of hyperactive-inattentive preschool children (N = 47) and nonimpaired controls (N = 113). A subset of parents completed the questionnaire on 2 occasions, approximately 1 year apart. Factor analysis revealed a 3-factor solution, accounting for 32.28% of the variance. The resultant Positive Parenting, Negative/Inconsistent Parenting, and Punitive Parenting factors demonstrated good internal consistency and temporal stability. At baseline, parents of hyperactive-inattentive and control children did not differ on any APQ-PR subscale. However, over time parents of controls increased their use of positive parenting techniques, whereas the use of positive parenting practices decreased over time in the hyperactive-inattentive group.

[Steadfast--effectiveness of a cognitive-behavioral self-management program for patients with somatoform vertigo and dizziness].

PubMed

Tschan, Regine; Eckhardt-Henn, Annegret; Scheurich, Vera; Best, Christoph; Dieterich, Marianne; Beutel, Manfred

2012-01-01

The aim of the study was to evaluate a psychotherapeutic intervention for somatoform vertigo regarding illness perception, severity and psychopathology.Patients underwent a waiting-list control group design (n=10 control group; n=14 intervention group with diagnostics at baseline, post-intervention, 3- and 12-month follow-up). Psychometric assessments comprised the Illness Perception Questionnaire, Vertigo Symptom and Handicap Questionnaire, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and Physical Health Questionnaire.The intervention group improved in personal control (p=0.046; d=0.46), and coherency (p=0.087; d=0.42). Illness beliefs in organic deteriorations could be corrected towards psychosomatic attributions.Steadfast decreased dysfunctional illness representations and increased patient empowerment. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Personality Disorders in Hypochondriasis: A Comparison to Panic Disorder and Healthy Controls.

PubMed

Weck, Florian; Nagel, Laura Carlotta; Richtberg, Samantha; Neng, Julia M B

2017-08-01

Previous studies found high prevalence rates of personality disorders (PDs) in patients with hypochondriasis; however, assessment was often based only on questionnaires. In the current study, a sample of 68 patients with hypochondriasis was compared to 31 patients with panic disorder and to 94 healthy controls. Participants were investigated with the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Personality Disorders questionnaire (SCID-II questionnaire) and the SCID-II interview. Based on the cut-off scores of the SCID-II questionnaire, we found a prevalence rate of 45.6% for PD in patients with hypochondriasis. In comparison to healthy controls, patients with hypochondriasis showed characteristics of paranoid, borderline, avoidant, and dependent PDs in the dimensional assessment significantly more often. However, no significant differences were found between the clinical samples. Based on the SCID-II interview, only 2.9% of the patients with hypochondriasis fulfilled the criteria for a PD. These results suggest that PDs are not a specific characteristic of hypochondriasis.

Testing Karasek's Demands-Control Model in restructured healthcare settings: effects of job strain on staff nurses' quality of work life.

PubMed

Laschinger, H K; Finegan, J; Shamian, J; Almost, J

2001-05-01

Job strain among staff nurses has become an increasingly important concern in relationship to employee performance and commitment to the organization in current restructured healthcare settings. The purpose of this study was to test Karasek's Demands-Control Model of job strain by examining the extent to which the degree of job strain in nursing work environments affects staff nurses' perceptions of structural and psychological empowerment, work satisfaction, and organizational commitment. A predictive, nonexperimental design was used to test these relationships in a random sample of 404 Canadian staff nurses. Karasek's Job Content Questionnaire, the Conditions of Work Effectiveness Questionnaire-II, Spreitzer's Psychological Empowerment Questionnaire, Meyer and Allen's Organizational Commitment Questionnaire, and the Global Satisfaction Scale were used to measure the major study variables. Nurses with higher level of job strain were found to be significantly more empowered, more committed to the organization, and more satisfied with their work. Support for Karasek's Demands/Control theory was established in this study.

Disentangling functions of online aggression: The Cyber-Aggression Typology Questionnaire (CATQ).

PubMed

Runions, Kevin C; Bak, Michal; Shaw, Thérèse

2017-01-01

Aggression in online contexts has received much attention over the last decade, yet there is a need for measures identifying the proximal psychological drivers of cyber-aggressive behavior. The purpose of this study was to present data on the newly developed Cyber-Aggression Typology Questionnaire (CATQ) designed to distinguish between four distinct types of cyber-aggression on dimensions of motivational valence and self-control. A sample 314 undergraduate students participated in the study. The results confirmed the predicted four-factor structure providing evidence for distinct and independent impulsive-aversive, controlled-aversive, impulsive-appetitive, and controlled-appetitive cyber-aggression types. Further analyses with the Berlin Cyberbullying Questionnaire, Reactive Proactive Aggression Questionnaire, and the Behavior Inhibition and Activation Systems Scale provide support for convergent and divergent validity. Understanding the motivations facilitating cyber-aggressive behavior could aid researchers in the development of new prevention and intervention strategies that focus on individual differences in maladaptive proximal drivers of aggression. Aggr. Behav. 43:74-84, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The relationship between motivational structure, sense of control, intrinsic motivation and university students' alcohol consumption.

PubMed

Shamloo, Zohreh Sepehri; Cox, W Miles

2010-02-01

The aim of this study was to determine how sense of control and intrinsic motivation are related to university students' motivational structure and alcohol consumption. Participants were 94 university students who completed the Personal Concerns Inventory, Shapiro Control Inventory, Helplessness Questionnaire, Intrinsic-Extrinsic Aspirations Scale, and Alcohol Use Questionnaire. Results showed that sense of control and intrinsic motivation were positively correlated with adaptive motivation and negatively correlated with alcohol consumption. Mediational analyses indicated that adaptive motivation fully mediated the relationship between sense of control/intrinsic motivation and alcohol consumption.

The Allergic Rhinitis Control Test questionnaire is valuable in guiding step-down pharmacotherapy treatment of allergic rhinitis.

PubMed

Zhu, Rongfei; Wang, Jingru; Wu, Yuying; Yang, Yongshi; Huang, Nan; Yang, Yaqi; Zhang, Rui; Ma, Dongxia; Yang, Lin; Demoly, Pascal

2018-06-07

Allergic Rhinitis Control Test(ARCT) has been validated in allergic rhinitis(AR) step-up pharmacotherapy management approach. The aim of our study was to evaluate the potential of ARCT in AR step-down pharmacotherapy. In an open-labelled randomized controlled study, AR patients controlled with intranasal corticosteroid(INS) plus antihistamine(step 4) were included and randomized into an ARCT or a control group. In ARCT group, the patients were followed up every 15 days; if ARCT score was ≥20(controlled AR), the patient would step down to step 3(INS), step 2(daily antihistamine), step 1(antihistamine as needed) and step 0(no medication) consecutively; if ARCT score was strictly <20, the treatment would not be adjusted. In the control group, patients would be treated with step 4 medications during the whole study. Rhinitis Quality-of-Life Questionnaire(RQLQ), Morisky Questionnaire and Brief Illness-Perception-Questionnaire(B-IPQ) were completed at baseline and the end of the study. Medication use and side effects were recorded. A total of 255 AR patients were enrolled into the study, 27 patients dropped out. The control rates at D45 were 77.8% in ARCT group and 85.8% in control group(P>0.05). ARCT group had less mean medication use than control group(INS 1.27 vs. 2.22 bottle, antihistamines 35.9 vs. 61.4 tablets)(P<0.05). RQLQ, Morisky and B-IPQ score were significantly improved in both groups after treatment(P<0.05). Stepping down AR medications in controlled patients led to similar clinical outcomes at reduced cost compared with those who maintained their current treatment level. ARCT is an optimal tool for evaluating the step-down eligibility. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Psychometric Properties of the Alabama Parenting Questionnaire-Preschool Revision

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Clerkin, Suzanne M.; Marks, David J.; Policaro, Katia L.; Halperin, Jeffrey M.

2007-01-01

The psychometric properties of the Alabama Parenting Questionnaire-Preschool Revision (APQ-PR) were explored in a sample of hyperactive-inattentive preschool children (N = 47) and nonimpaired controls (N = 113). A subset of parents completed the questionnaire on 2 occasions, approximately 1 year apart. Factor analysis revealed a 3-factor solution,…

75 FR 77957 - Agency Information Collection (Pension Claim Questionnaire for Farm Income) Activity Under OMB...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-12-14

... Claim Questionnaire for Farm Income) Activity Under OMB Review AGENCY: Veterans Benefits Administration... Questionnaire for Farm Income, VA Form 21- 4165. OMB Control Number: 2900-0095. Type of Review: Extension of a... necessary to determine a claimant's countable annual income and available assets due to farm operations...

77 FR 39317 - 30-Day Notice of Proposed Information Collection, DS-5520, Supplemental Questionnaire to...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-07-02

..., Supplemental Questionnaire to Determine Identity for a U.S. Passport, 1405-XXXX ACTION: Notice of request for... Collection: Supplemental Questionnaire to Determine Identity for a U.S. Passport. OMB Control Number: None... of Consular Affairs, Passport Services, Office of Project Management and Operational Support, Program...

Current status of Marek’s disease in the United States & worldwide based on a questionnaire survey

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

A questionnaire was widely distributed in 2011 to estimate the global prevalence of Marek’s disease (MD) and gain a better understanding of current control strategies and future concerns. A total of 112 questionnaires were returned representing 116 countries from sources including national branch s...

Development and validation of a questionnaire to evaluate infection control in oral radiology.

PubMed

da Costa, Eliana D; Pinelli, Camila; da Silva Tagliaferro, Elaine P; Corrente, José E; Ambrosano, Glaucia M B

2017-04-01

To create and validate a questionnaire to evaluate infection control in oral radiology. The questionnaire was developed after review of the literature, which included published articles and the biosafety protocols available from healthcare agencies. The initial version of the questionnaire was composed of 14 multiple choice questions and was divided into 3 domains on handwashing, disinfection/protection of surfaces and disinfectant used. Content validity was assessed by two expert committees, which reviewed the content and scope of the questionnaire and the relevance of each item, respectively. Reliability was evaluated using test-retest and internal consistency methods with 115 undergraduate dentistry students. Construct validity was assessed using the known-groups technique and factor analysis. The known-groups technique involved 641 undergraduate dentistry students, 20 PhD students and 15 oral radiology professors. In the factor analysis, 3 radiology technicians also participated in addition to the 641 undergraduates, 20 PhD students and 15 oral radiology professors. The content validity results were found to be satisfactory to excellent for the ordinal variables (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.722-1.000) and good to great for the yes/no questions (kappa = 0.662-0.913) in terms of reliability and good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.88). After a factor analysis, some questions were excluded, and the questions were grouped into new domains. Significant differences were observed between answers from different groups. The final version of the questionnaire was composed of nine domains. The questionnaire created was found to exhibit good psychometric properties for assessing infection control in oral radiology.

["Let's play with the Earth": a project of environmental education for primary school children].

PubMed

Gallotti, Cristina; Ferloni, Paolo; Roncarolo, Federico; Maccagni, Marinella; Alessi, Luca; Scorletti, Eleonora; Sacco, Sara; Tenconi, Maria Teresa

2012-01-01

Raising awareness and knowledge in Pavia Public Primary School students, and indirectly in their parents, about environmental problems like waste recycling and energy saving, developing with games the concept of separate collection of rubbish; creating an environmentally conscious awareness and sense of responsibility towards sustainable behavior. The educational program lasted six months. Data collection was performed using anonymous questionnaires, administered to "treated" students at the beginning and at the end of the program. The "control" population only answered a single questionnaire at the end of the project. It was also carried out an assessment of the fallout of the project on parents, through a questionnaire at the beginning and at the end of the program. At the end of the educational intervention, a satisfaction questionnaire was administered to teachers. The enrolled population was composed of 1,358 students from 3rd, 4th and 5th classes of Public Primary Schools of the four Pavia School Districts: 938 "treated" students followed the program and 420 "controls" only answered the final questionnaire. The data concerning the pupils' knowledge are expressed in terms of frequencies: at first, we evaluated the comparison between "treated" students knowledge at the beginning and at the end of the program in each class, then we made the comparison between "treated" and "control" students at the end of the program. The comparison of the final questionnaires ("treated" students vs "controls") revealed in "treated" students higher knowledge of terms "waste" (94.5% vs 89.0%) and "separate collection" (97.3% vs 90.7%): the differences are statistically significant. Also the practice of separate collection of rubbish is more frequent in "treated" students' families than in "control" ones (83.5% vs 71.4%, p =0.0001).The analysis of teachers' satisfaction questionnaires showed positive ratings with high average scores for each item investigated. The analysis of parents' questionnaires revealed that 99.8% of them knows the meaning and 89% practice separate collection of rubbish. The program has proved effective in increasing students' short-term knowledge and making also families more interested in problems like waste recycling and separate collection of rubbish. The need of an awareness and environmental education campaign for the general population is apparent and the role of children, promoting knowledge and environmental behaviour changes in parents and community, has not to be underestimated.

Patient-reported speech in noise difficulties and hyperacusis symptoms and correlation with test results.

PubMed

Spyridakou, Chrysa; Luxon, Linda M; Bamiou, Doris E

2012-07-01

To compare self-reported symptoms of difficulty hearing speech in noise and hyperacusis in adults with auditory processing disorders (APDs) and normal controls; and to compare self-reported symptoms to objective test results (speech in babble test, transient evoked otoacoustic emission [TEOAE] suppression test using contralateral noise). A prospective case-control pilot study. Twenty-two participants were recruited in the study: 10 patients with reported hearing difficulty, normal audiometry, and a clinical diagnosis of APD; and 12 normal age-matched controls with no reported hearing difficulty. All participants completed the validated Amsterdam Inventory for Auditory Disability questionnaire, a hyperacusis questionnaire, a speech in babble test, and a TEOAE suppression test using contralateral noise. Patients had significantly worse scores than controls in all domains of the Amsterdam Inventory questionnaire (with the exception of sound detection) and the hyperacusis questionnaire (P < .005). Patients also had worse TEOAE suppression test results in both ears than controls; however, this result was not significant after Bonferroni correction. Strong correlations were observed between self-reported symptoms of difficulty hearing speech in noise and speech in babble test results in the right ear (ρ = 0.624, P = .002), and between self-reported symptoms of hyperacusis and TEOAE suppression test results in the right ear (ρ = -0.597 P = .003). There was no significant correlation between the two tests. A strong correlation was observed between right ear speech in babble and patient-reported intelligibility of speech in noise, and right ear TEOAE suppression by contralateral noise and hyperacusis questionnaire. Copyright © 2012 The American Laryngological, Rhinological, and Otological Society, Inc.

Breast Cancer Epidemiology in Puerto Rico

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-06-01

Award 5 potential population controls from the above mentioned area is available to identify eligible controls. The survey instrument to be use ...be available for English speaking participants. An electronic version of the questionnaire is being developed using Microsoft Access. At this moment...questionnaire electronic version revision, and to test it with using a formal interview format. We hope to begin interviewing in September 2009

Clinical Application and Psychometric Properties of a Norwegian Questionnaire for the Self-Assessment of Communication in Quiet and Adverse Conditions Using Two Revised APHAB Subscales.

PubMed

Heggdal, Peder O Laugen; Nordvik, Øyvind; Brännström, Jonas; Vassbotn, Flemming; Aarstad, Anne Kari; Aarstad, Hans Jørgen

2018-01-01

Difficulty in following and understanding conversation in different daily life situations is a common complaint among persons with hearing loss. To the best of our knowledge, there is currently no published validated Norwegian questionnaire available that allows for a self-assessment of unaided communication ability in a population with hearing loss. The aims of the present study were to investigate a questionnaire for the self-assessment of communication ability, examine the psychometric properties of this questionnaire, and explore how demographic variables such as degree of hearing loss, age, and sex influence response patterns. A questionnaire based on the subscales of the Norwegian translation of the Abbreviated Profile of Hearing Aid Benefit was applied to a group of hearing aid users and normal-hearing controls. A total of 108 patients with bilateral hearing loss, and 101 controls with self-reported normal hearing. The psychometric properties were evaluated. Associations and differences between outcome scores and descriptive variables were examined. A regression analysis was performed to investigate whether descriptive variables could predict outcome. The measures of reliability suggest that the questionnaire has satisfactory psychometric properties, with the outcome of the questionnaire correlating to hearing loss severity, thus indicating that the concurrent validity of the questionnaire is good. The findings indicate that the proposed questionnaire is a valid measure of self-assessed communication ability in both quiet and adverse listening conditions in participants with and without hearing loss. American Academy of Audiology

Investigating on the Methodology Effect When Evaluating Lucid Dream

PubMed Central

Ribeiro, Nicolas; Gounden, Yannick; Quaglino, Véronique

2016-01-01

Lucid dreaming (LD) is a state of consciousness in which the dreamer is aware that he or she is dreaming and can possibly control the content of his or her dream. To investigate the LD prevalence among different samples, researchers have used different types of methodologies. With regard to retrospective self-report questionnaire, two ways of proceeding seem to emerge. In one case, a definition of LD is given to participants (“During LD, one is–while dreaming–aware of the fact that one is dreaming. It is possible to deliberately wake up, to control the dream action, or to observe passively the course of the dream with this awareness”), while in the other instances, participants are presented separate questions targeting specific LD indicators (dream awareness and dream control). In the present study, we measured LD frequency in a sample of French student in order to investigate for possible disparities in LD frequency depending on the type of questionnaire as outlined above. Moreover, we also study links between the prevalence of LD as assessed, respectively, by each questionnaire with various factors such as Vividness of Mental Imagery and Parasomnia. Results revealed no significant difference between LD frequencies across questionnaires. For the questionnaire with definition (DefQuest), 81.05% of participants reported experience of LD once or more. Concerning the questionnaire based on LD indicators (AwarContQuest), 73.38% of participants reported having experienced LD once or more. However, with regard to the correlations analysis, links between LD prevalence and factors such as Vividness of Mental Imagery and Parasomnia, varied across questionnaires. This result is an argument suggesting that researchers should be careful when investigating links between LD and other factors. The type of methodology may influence findings on LD research. Further studies are needed to investigate on the methodology effect in LD research namely on the respective weight of awareness and control. PMID:27625622

Effect of Web-Based Versus Paper-Based Questionnaires and Follow-Up Strategies on Participation Rates of Dutch Childhood Cancer Survivors: A Randomized Controlled Trial

PubMed Central

van Dulmen-den Broeder, Eline; van der Pal, Helena J; Hollema, Nynke; Kremer, Leontien C; van den Heuvel-Eibrink, Marry M; van Leeuwen, Flora E

2015-01-01

Background Questionnaires are widely used in survey research, especially in cohort studies. However, participation in questionnaire studies has been declining over the past decades. Because high participation rates are needed to limit the risk of selection bias and produce valid results, it is important to investigate invitation strategies which may improve participation. Objectives The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of Web-based versus paper-based questionnaires on participation rates in a questionnaire survey on late effects among childhood cancer survivors (CCSs). Methods A total of 750 CCSs were randomized across 3 study arms. The initial invitation in study arms 1 and 2 consisted of a Web-based questionnaire only, whereas in study arm 3 this invitation was complemented with a paper-based version of the questionnaire. The first postal reminder, sent to the nonresponding CCSs in all 3 study arms, consisted of either a reminder letter only (study arms 1 and 3) or a reminder letter complemented with a paper-based questionnaire (study arm 2). The second postal reminder was restricted to CCSs in study arms 1 and 2, with only those in study arm 1 also receiving a paper-based questionnaire. CCSs in study arm 3 received a second reminder by telephone instead of by mail. In contrast to CCSs in study arm 3, CCSs in study arms 1 and 2 received a third reminder, this time by telephone. Results: Overall, 58.1% (436/750) of the CCSs participated in the survey. Participation rates were equal in all 3 study arms with 57.4% (143/249) in arm 1, 60.6% (152/251) in arm 2, and 56.4% (141/250) in arm 3 (P=.09). Participation rates of CCSs who received an initial invitation for the Web-based questionnaire only and CCSs who received an invitation to complete either a paper-based or Web-based questionnaire did not differ (P=.55). After the first postal reminder, participation rates of CCSs invited for the Web-based questionnaire only also did not differ compared with CCSs invited for both the Web-based and paper-based questionnaires (P=.48). In general, CCSs preferred the paper-based over the Web-based questionnaire, and those completing the paper-based questionnaire were more often unemployed (P=.004) and lower educated (P<.001). Conclusion Invitation strategies offering a Web-based questionnaire without a paper-based alternative at first invitation can be used without compromising participation rates of CCS. Offering the choice between paper- and Web-based questionnaires seems to result in the highest accrual participation rate. Future research should look into the quality of the data delivered by both questionnaires filled in by respondents themselves. Trial Registration International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number (ISRCTN): 84711754; http://www.controlled-trials.com/ISRCTN84711754 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6c9ZB8paX) PMID:28410161

Impaired quality of life in patients with treated acromegaly despite long-term biochemically stable disease: Results from a 5-years prospective study.

PubMed

Kyriakakis, Nikolaos; Lynch, Julie; Gilbey, Stephen G; Webb, Susan M; Murray, Robert D

2017-06-01

Patients with acromegaly demonstrate impaired quality of life (QoL), but data on long-term QoL changes in treated acromegaly are limited. This study evaluates and identifies factors that influence QoL in patients with long-term biochemical remission. The study consists of a cross-sectional arm comparing QoL between patients with treated and controlled acromegaly and healthy controls; and a longitudinal arm assessing QoL changes in patients with biochemically stable disease during 5.7±0.6 years of follow-up. A total of 58 patients and 116 matched controls were recruited for the cross-sectional arm; 28 patients completed the longitudinal arm. Three generic questionnaires (Psychological General Well-Being Schedule [PGWBS], 36-item Short-Form [SF-36], EuroQoL [EQ-5D]) and the disease-specific acromegaly QoL questionnaire (AcroQoL) were applied. Quality of life assessment was performed 11.6±8.2 years following diagnosis and treatment of acromegaly. Patients with treated acromegaly had lower QoL scores compared with controls in all questionnaires with the exception of the PGWBS "Anxiety" subscale. The AcroQoL "Appearance" subscale and the "Physical Function" subscales of the remaining questionnaires were the most underscored domains. No difference in the total and subscale scores of all questionnaires was observed between baseline and follow-up, with the exception of the SF-36 "Physical Function," where a decline was found (58.5±24.7% vs 43.1±31.1%; P=.002). However, after adjusting for covariates, no significant change in any of the QoL scores was seen. Duration of IGF-1/GH control was positively correlated with QoL scores in most questionnaires at baseline, whereas use of GH lowering therapy at the time of QoL assessment was a negative predictive factor of QoL. Patients with biochemically controlled acromegaly demonstrate impaired QoL, which persists despite long-term disease control. This primarily consists of impaired physical function and secondly of impaired psycho-social well-being. Duration of biochemical disease control and current use of GH lowering therapy was the predominant factors determining patients' QoL. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

[Emotional self-control, coping with stress and psycho-physical well-being of prison officers].

PubMed

Sygit-Kowalkowska, Ewa; Weber-Rajek, Magdalena; Porażyński, Krzysztof; Goch, Aleksander; Kraszkiewicz, Krzysztof; Bułatowicz, Irena

2015-01-01

Mental and physical health status is closely associated with the specific character of work in the structures of the uniformed services. The aim of the study was to examine how self-control, revealed strategies of coping with stress, sociodemographic factors differentiate the level of psychological and physical well-being of prison officers, and what is the predictor of psychological and physical well-being in this occupational group. A questionnaire survey was conducted in a group of 75 prison officers working in the Prison Potulice Security Department. In the study the following tools were used: the questionnaire on "Psychosocial working conditions", popular questionnaire on emotional intelligence (Popularny Kwestionariusz Inteligencji Emocjonalnej--PKIE), Measure Coping Strategies with Stress (Mini-COPE) and the questionnaire on sociodemographic variables. A higher level of mental and physical well-being of the subjects was accompanied by a higher level of declared active coping and a lower level in the range of helplessness, avoidance, turn to religion and sense of humor. Regression analysis showed that the levels of emotional control, helplessness strategy and support seeking strategies are important predictors of physical well-being of the dependent variable. As regards the psychological well-being, significant predictors are: the levels of emotional control, sense of humor and support seeking. The value of the results is limited due to the methodology used to collect questionnaires. In our study a random trial was not used as the questionnaires were completed only by individuals interested in the subject under study. Knowledge about the specificity of the psychophysical characteristics of prison officers should be taken into account when designing the tools of occupational health promotion. Studies show an average low level of perceived well-being with a high level of self-control. This work is available in Open Access model and licensed under a CC BY-NC 3.0 PL license.

The efficacy of a standardized questionnaire in facilitating personalized communication about problems encountered in cancer genetic counseling: design of a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Eijzenga, Willem; Aaronson, Neil K; Kluijt, Irma; Sidharta, Grace N; Hahn, Daniela Ee; Ausems, Margreet Gem; Bleiker, Eveline Ma

2014-01-15

Individuals with a personal or family history of cancer, can opt for genetic counseling and DNA-testing. Approximately 25% of these individuals experience clinically relevant levels of psychosocial distress, depression and/or anxiety after counseling. These problems are frequently left undetected by genetic counselors. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of a cancer genetics-specific screening questionnaire for psychosocial problems, the 'Psychosocial Aspects of Hereditary Cancer (PAHC) questionnaire' together with the Distress Thermometer, in: (1) facilitating personalized counselor-counselee communication; (2) increasing counselors' awareness of their counselees' psychosocial problems; and (3) facilitating the management of psychosocial problems during and after genetic counseling. This multicenter, randomized controlled trial will include 264 individuals undergoing cancer genetic counseling in two family cancer clinics in the Netherlands. Participants will be randomized to either: (1) an intervention group that completes the PAHC questionnaire, the results of which are made available to the genetic counselor prior to the counseling session; or (2) a control group that completes the PAHC questionnaire, but without feedback being given to the genetic counselor. The genetic counseling sessions will be audiotaped for content analysis. Additionally, study participants will be asked to complete questionnaires at baseline, three weeks after the initial counseling session, and four months after a telephone follow-up counseling session. The genetic counselors will be asked to complete questionnaires at the start of and at completion of the study, as well as a checklist directly after each counseling session. The questionnaires/checklists of the study include items on communication during genetic counseling, counselor awareness of their clients' psychosocial problems, the (perceived) need for professional psychosocial support, cancer worries, general distress, specific psychosocial problems, satisfaction with care received, and experience using the PAHC questionnaire. This study will provide empirical evidence regarding the efficacy of a relatively brief psychosocial screening questionnaire in terms of facilitating personalized communication, increasing counselors' awareness, and optimizing management of psychosocial problems in the cancer genetic counseling setting. This study is registered at the Netherlands Trial Register (NTR3205) and ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01562431).

Development and Validation of Questionnaires Exploring Health Care Professionals' Intention to Use Wiki-Based Reminders to Promote Best Practices in Trauma

PubMed Central

Gagnon, Susie; Gagnon, Marie-Pierre; Turcotte, Stéphane; Lapointe, Jean; Fleet, Richard; Côté, Mario; Beaupré, Pierre; Le Sage, Natalie; Émond, Marcel; Légaré, France

2014-01-01

Background Little is known about factors influencing professionals’ use of wikis. Objective We developed and validated two questionnaires to assess health care professionals’ intention to use wiki-based reminders for the management of trauma patients. Methods We developed questionnaires for emergency physicians (EPs) and allied health professions (AHPs) based on the Theory of Planned Behavior and adapted them to the salient beliefs of each, identified in an earlier study. Items measured demographics and direct and indirect theoretical constructs. We piloted the questionnaires with 2 focus groups (5 EPs and 5 AHPs) to identify problems of wording and length. Based on feedback, we adjusted the wording and combined certain items. A new convenience sample of 25 EPs and 26 AHPs then performed a test-retest of the questionnaires at a 2-week interval. We assessed internal consistency using Cronbach alpha coefficients and temporal stability of items with an agreement intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Results Five EPs and 5 AHPs (3 nurses, 1 respiratory therapist, and 1 pharmacist) formed 2 focus groups; 25 EPs and 26 AHPs (12 nurses, 7 respiratory therapists, and 7 pharmacists) completed the test and retest. The EP questionnaire test-retest scores for consistency (Cronbach alpha) and stability (ICC) were intention (test: Cronbach alpha=.94; retest: Cronbach alpha=.98; ICC=.89), attitude (.74, .72, .70), subjective norm (.79, .78, .75), perceived behavioral control (.67, .65, .66), attitudinal beliefs (.94, .86, .60), normative beliefs (.83, .87, .79), and control beliefs barriers (.58, .67, .78) and facilitators (.97, .85, .30). The AHP questionnaire scores for consistency and stability were: intention (test Cronbach alpha=.69, retest Cronbach alpha=.81, ICC=.48), attitude (.85, .87, .83), subjective norm (.47, .82, .62), perceived behavioral control (.55, .62, .60), attitudinal beliefs (.92, .91, .82), normative beliefs (.85, .90, .74), and control beliefs barriers (.58, .55, .66) and facilitators (.72, .94, –.05). To improve the psychometric properties of both questionnaires, we reformulated poorly consistent or unstable items. Conclusions Our new theory-based questionnaires to measure health care professionals’ intention to use wiki-based reminders have adequate validity and reliability for use in large surveys. In the long run, they can be used to develop a theory-based implementation intervention for a wiki promoting best practices in trauma care. PMID:25281856

Development and validation of questionnaires exploring health care professionals' intention to use wiki-based reminders to promote best practices in trauma.

PubMed

Archambault, Patrick Michel; Gagnon, Susie; Gagnon, Marie-Pierre; Turcotte, Stéphane; Lapointe, Jean; Fleet, Richard; Côté, Mario; Beaupré, Pierre; Le Sage, Natalie; Emond, Marcel; Légaré, France

2014-10-03

Little is known about factors influencing professionals' use of wikis. We developed and validated two questionnaires to assess health care professionals' intention to use wiki-based reminders for the management of trauma patients. We developed questionnaires for emergency physicians (EPs) and allied health professions (AHPs) based on the Theory of Planned Behavior and adapted them to the salient beliefs of each, identified in an earlier study. Items measured demographics and direct and indirect theoretical constructs. We piloted the questionnaires with 2 focus groups (5 EPs and 5 AHPs) to identify problems of wording and length. Based on feedback, we adjusted the wording and combined certain items. A new convenience sample of 25 EPs and 26 AHPs then performed a test-retest of the questionnaires at a 2-week interval. We assessed internal consistency using Cronbach alpha coefficients and temporal stability of items with an agreement intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Five EPs and 5 AHPs (3 nurses, 1 respiratory therapist, and 1 pharmacist) formed 2 focus groups; 25 EPs and 26 AHPs (12 nurses, 7 respiratory therapists, and 7 pharmacists) completed the test and retest. The EP questionnaire test-retest scores for consistency (Cronbach alpha) and stability (ICC) were intention (test: Cronbach alpha=.94; retest: Cronbach alpha=.98; ICC=.89), attitude (.74, .72, .70), subjective norm (.79, .78, .75), perceived behavioral control (.67, .65, .66), attitudinal beliefs (.94, .86, .60), normative beliefs (.83, .87, .79), and control beliefs barriers (.58, .67, .78) and facilitators (.97, .85, .30). The AHP questionnaire scores for consistency and stability were: intention (test Cronbach alpha=.69, retest Cronbach alpha=.81, ICC=.48), attitude (.85, .87, .83), subjective norm (.47, .82, .62), perceived behavioral control (.55, .62, .60), attitudinal beliefs (.92, .91, .82), normative beliefs (.85, .90, .74), and control beliefs barriers (.58, .55, .66) and facilitators (.72, .94, -.05). To improve the psychometric properties of both questionnaires, we reformulated poorly consistent or unstable items. Our new theory-based questionnaires to measure health care professionals' intention to use wiki-based reminders have adequate validity and reliability for use in large surveys. In the long run, they can be used to develop a theory-based implementation intervention for a wiki promoting best practices in trauma care.

A systematic review of screening questionnaires for childhood lead poisoning.

PubMed

Ossiander, Eric M

2013-01-01

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention encourages the use of risk factor questionnaires to screen children for lead poisoning. A majority of state health departments have formal lead screening guidelines that recommend health care providers use questionnaires. We conducted a systematic review to evaluate the ability of lead screening questionnaires to predict lead poisoning risk among children. Articles that reported the evaluation of a predesigned lead screening questionnaire were obtained by searching Medline/PubMed and by examining references of articles obtained through the online search. From each evaluation, we abstracted the number of children that were true positive, false positive, true negative, and false negative, according to the results of the screening questionnaire and the follow-up blood lead test. From these data, we calculated specificity and sensitivity of the questionnaire for each evaluation. Twenty articles met the inclusion criteria: these included 28 separate questionnaire evaluations. Among 17 evaluations of the 1991 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention questionnaire, sensitivity ranged from 0.25 to 0.87, specificity from 0.31 to 0.80, and accuracy (sum of sensitivity and specificity) from 0.74 to 1.39. The pooled mean estimates for this questionnaire were sensitivity 0.61 (95% confidence interval: 0.53-0.68); specificity 0.52 (0.45-0.60); accuracy 1.12 (1.06-1.18). Among 11 evaluations of all other questionnaires, sensitivity ranged from 0.43 to 0.90, specificity from 0.17 to 0.66, and accuracy from 0.94 to 1.27. For these questionnaires, the pooled mean estimates were sensitivity 0.76 (0.68-0.85), specificity 0.41 (0.33-0.49), and accuracy 1.12 (1.06-1.18). Lead screening questionnaires showed a wide range of sensitivity and specificity and performed little better than chance at predicting lead poisoning risk among children.

Development of Radiated Power Diagnostics for NSTX-U

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reinke, Matthew; van Eden, G. G.; Lovell, Jack; Peterson, Byron; Gray, Travis; Chandra, Rian; Stratton, Brent; Ellis, Robert; NSTX-U Team

2016-10-01

New tools to measure radiated power in NSTX-U are under development to support a range of core and boundary physics research. Multiple resistive bolometer pinhole cameras are being built and calibrated to support FY17 operations, all utilizing standard Au-foil sensors from IPT-Albrecht. The radiation in the lower divertor will be measured using two, 8 channel arrays viewing both vertically and radially to enable estimates of the 2D radiation structure. The core radiation will be measured using a 24 channel array viewing tangentially near the midplane, observing the full cross-section from the inner to outer limiter. This enables characterization of the centrifugally-driven in/out radiation asymmetry expected from mid-Z and high-Z impurities in highly rotating NSTX-U plasmas. All sensors utilize novel FPGA-based BOLO8BLF analyzers from D-tAcq Solutions. Resistive bolometer measurements are complemented by an InfraRed Video Bolometer (IRVB) which measures the temperature change of radiation absorber using an IR camera. A prototype IRVB system viewing the lower divertor was installed on NSTX-U for FY16 operations. Initial results from the plasma and benchtop testing are used to demonstrate the relative advantages between IRVB and resistive bolometers. Supported in Part by DE-AC05-00OR22725 & DE-AC02-09CH11466.

COS Target Acquisition Guidelines, Recommendations, and Interpretation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Keyes, Charles (Tony) D.; Penton, Steven V.

2010-06-01

Based upon analysis of SMOV and Cycle 17 observations through April 2010, this ISR expands, updates, and supersedes recommendations and information provided about target acquisitions (TA) in the COS Instrument Handbook version 2. This ISR provides an overview of COS TA, presents general guidelines and recommendations for crafting COS TAs, establishes COS TA centering accuracy requirements to achieve COS photometric, velocity, and resolution objectives, and summarizes the performance of the COS on-board TA modes as compared to these centering requirements. Updated TA strategy recommendations are given where appropriate, a user-oriented table lists where to find important quantities for the analysis and interpretation of COS TAs, and a brief appendix with additional supporting information is included. An overview of COS TA strategies is provided in Section 2 and Table 1; important updates to ACQ/SEARCH requirements and SEARCH-SIZE recommendations as a function of target coordinate accuracy are given in Tables 2 and 3; COS TA performance by mode is described in Section 5; important header keywords that are useful for evaluating the quality of COS TAs are listed in Table 5 along with where to find them; Table 6 gives a summary of COS TA modes, options, and recommended values; Section 7 summarizes updated recommendations and guidelines for COS TA; and Appendix A provides additional useful COS TA information.

Experiments on Supervised Learning Algorithms for Text Categorization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Namburu, Setu Madhavi; Tu, Haiying; Luo, Jianhui; Pattipati, Krishna R.

2005-01-01

Modern information society is facing the challenge of handling massive volume of online documents, news, intelligence reports, and so on. How to use the information accurately and in a timely manner becomes a major concern in many areas. While the general information may also include images and voice, we focus on the categorization of text data in this paper. We provide a brief overview of the information processing flow for text categorization, and discuss two supervised learning algorithms, viz., support vector machines (SVM) and partial least squares (PLS), which have been successfully applied in other domains, e.g., fault diagnosis [9]. While SVM has been well explored for binary classification and was reported as an efficient algorithm for text categorization, PLS has not yet been applied to text categorization. Our experiments are conducted on three data sets: Reuter's- 21578 dataset about corporate mergers and data acquisitions (ACQ), WebKB and the 20-Newsgroups. Results show that the performance of PLS is comparable to SVM in text categorization. A major drawback of SVM for multi-class categorization is that it requires a voting scheme based on the results of pair-wise classification. PLS does not have this drawback and could be a better candidate for multi-class text categorization.

The usefulness of Quality of Life Childhood Epilepsy (QOLCE) questionnaire in evaluating the quality of life of children with epilepsy.

PubMed

Talarska, D

2007-01-01

Evaluation of quality of life has become a frequently used method in treatment effects supervision. Quality of Life Childhood Epilepsy (QOLCE) questionnaire, which is completed by patients' parents, has been prepared for children with epilepsy. It enables to determine the quality of life in children aged 4-18 years. The aim of the study was to show the usefulness of QOLCE questionnaire in evaluating the quality of life of children with epilepsy. 160 epileptic children, aged 8-18 years and their parents were examined in the Chair and Department of Developmental Neurology, K. Marcinkowski University of Medical Sciences in Poznań. QOLCE questionnaire was completed by parents and "Young people and epilepsy" questionnaire was designed for children. Reliability index of the complete questionnaire in own research and in the original amounted to 0.93 Cronbach alpha coefficient. Epileptic, drug-resistant children constituted 28% of the examined group. Parents of children with controlled seizures evaluated children's functioning in analyzed areas of quality of life higher. 1. QOLCE questionnaire is a suitable tool to evaluate the quality of children's and adolescents' life. 2. The most significant differences in functioning of epileptic, drug-resistant patients and those with controlled seizures were observed in areas of cognitive processes and social activity.

A tool to assess knowledge, attitude and behavior of Indonesian health care workers regarding infection control.

PubMed

Duerink, D O; Hadi, U; Lestari, E S; Roeshadi, Djoko; Wahyono, Hendro; Nagelkerke, N J D; Van der Meulen, R G; Van den Broek, P J

2013-07-01

to investigate knowledge, attitude and behaviour toward infection control in two teaching hospitals on the island of Java by means of a questionnaire and to evaluate the use of the questionnaire as a tool. we investigated knowledge, attitude and behaviour toward infection control in two teaching hospitals on the island of Java by means of a questionnaire to identify problem areas, barriers and facilitators. The target was to include at least 50% of all health care workers (physicians, nurses, assistant nurses and infection control nurses) in each hospital, department and profession. Differences between demographic variables and scores for individual questions and groups of questions were compared using the chi-square statistic and analysis of variance and Spearman's rho was used to test for correlations between knowledge, attitude, self-reported behaviour and perceived obstacles. more than half of the health care workers of the participating departments completed the questionnaire. Of the 1036 respondents (44% nurses, 37% physicians and 19% assistant nurses), 34% were vaccinated against hepatitis B, 77% had experienced needle stick accidents and 93% had been instructed about infection control. The mean of the correct answers to the knowledge questions was 44%; of the answers to the attitude questions 67% were in agreement with the correct attitude; obstacles to compliance with infection control guidelines were perceived in 30% of the questions and the mean self-reported compliance was 63%. Safe handling of sharps, hand hygiene and the use of personal protective equipment were identified as the most important aspects for interventions. Significant positive correlations were found between knowledge, attitude, self-reported behaviour and perceived obstacles. the questionnaire in conjunction with site visits and interviews was a valuable strategy to identify trouble spots in the hospitals and to determine barriers to facilitators of change that should be taken into account when planning interventions. Successful interventions should cover hospital management, the infection control team, as well as the health care workers on the wards.

The effect of short-term workshop on improving clinical reasoning skill of medical students

PubMed Central

Yousefichaijan, Parsa; Jafari, Farshad; Kahbazi, Manijeh; Rafiei, Mohammad; Pakniyat, AbdolGhader

2016-01-01

Background: Clinical reasoning process leads clinician to get purposeful steps from signs and symptoms toward diagnosis and treatment. This research intends to investigate the effect of teaching clinical reasoning on problem-solving skills of medical students. Methods: This research is a semi-experimental study. Nineteen Medical student of the pediatric ward as case group participated in a two-day workshop for training clinical reasoning. Before the workshop, they filled out Diagnostic Thinking Inventory (DTI) questionnaires. Fifteen days after the workshop the DTI questionnaire completed and "key feature" (KF) test and "clinical reasoning problem" (CRP) test was held. 23 Medical student as the control group, without passing the clinical reasoning workshop DTI questionnaire completed, and KF test and CRP test was held. Results: The average score of the DTI questionnaire in the control group was 162.04 and in the case group before the workshop was 153.26 and after the workshop was 181.68. Compare the average score of the DTI questionnaire before and after the workshop there is a significant difference. The difference between average KF test scores in the control and the case group was not significant but between average CRP test scores was significant. Conclusion: Clinical reasoning workshop is effectiveness in promoting problem-solving skills of students. PMID:27579286

The effect of short-term workshop on improving clinical reasoning skill of medical students.

PubMed

Yousefichaijan, Parsa; Jafari, Farshad; Kahbazi, Manijeh; Rafiei, Mohammad; Pakniyat, AbdolGhader

2016-01-01

Clinical reasoning process leads clinician to get purposeful steps from signs and symptoms toward diagnosis and treatment. This research intends to investigate the effect of teaching clinical reasoning on problem-solving skills of medical students. This research is a semi-experimental study. Nineteen Medical student of the pediatric ward as case group participated in a two-day workshop for training clinical reasoning. Before the workshop, they filled out Diagnostic Thinking Inventory (DTI) questionnaires. Fifteen days after the workshop the DTI questionnaire completed and "key feature" (KF) test and "clinical reasoning problem" (CRP) test was held. 23 Medical student as the control group, without passing the clinical reasoning workshop DTI questionnaire completed, and KF test and CRP test was held. The average score of the DTI questionnaire in the control group was 162.04 and in the case group before the workshop was 153.26 and after the workshop was 181.68. Compare the average score of the DTI questionnaire before and after the workshop there is a significant difference. The difference between average KF test scores in the control and the case group was not significant but between average CRP test scores was significant. Clinical reasoning workshop is effectiveness in promoting problem-solving skills of students.

Lower urinary tract functions in a series of Charcot-Marie-Tooth neuropathy patients.

PubMed

Krhut, J; Mazanec, R; Seeman, P; Mann-Gow, T; Zvara, P

2014-05-01

To evaluate lower urinary tract (LUT), bowel, and sexual dysfunctions in a series of patients with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT). A cohort of 58 patients and 54 healthy controls filled out the International Prostate Symptoms Score (IPSS) and the International Consultation on Incontinence Modular (ICIQ) Questionnaires to assess their symptoms and their impact on the patient's quality of life. On the IPSS questionnaire, CMT patients reported a significantly higher score compared with the healthy controls in 7 of 8 questions. The ICIQ-male LUT symptoms questionnaire revealed a significantly higher score in 7 of 26 questions. In the ICIQ-female LUT questionnaire, a significantly higher score was observed in 13 of 24 questions. When assessing the bowel function in CMT patients using the ICIQ-bowel questionnaire, a significantly higher score in 30 of 40 questions was noted. No differences in sexual function were found in either group. The occurrence of the LUT symptoms and bowel dysfunctions in CMT patients was significantly higher when compared with an age-matched control group. The symptoms were more frequent in female patients. The findings suggest that autonomic dysfunction should be evaluated and included in the diagnostic approach and care of CMT patients. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Preliminary Development of a Multidimensional Semantic Patient Experience Measurement Questionnaire.

PubMed

Kleiss, James A

2016-10-01

The purpose of this research was to assess the utility and reliability of a multidimensional patient experience measurement questionnaire in a clinical setting. Patient experience has emerged as an important metric for quality of healthcare. A number of separate concepts have been used to measure patient experience, but psychological research suggests that subjective experience is actually a composite of several independent concepts including: (a) evaluation/valence, (b) potency/control, (c) activity/arousal, and (d) novelty. The present research evaluates the reliability of a multidimensional patient experience measurement questionnaire in a clinical setting. A multidimensional semantic differential questionnaire was developed to measure the four underlying semantic dimensions of patient experience mentioned above. A group of 60 patients used the questionnaire to assess prescan expectations and postscan experience of a magnetic resonance scan. Data for one patient were deleted because their scan was interrupted. Results revealed more positive evaluation/valence, higher potency/control, and lower activity/arousal for postscan ratings compared to prescan expectations. Ratings of novelty were neutral in both the prescan and the postscan conditions. Subsequent analysis suggested that internal consistency for some concepts could be improved by replacing several specific rating scales. Present results provide evidence of the utility and reliability of a multidimensional semantic questionnaire for measuring patient experience in an actual clinical setting. Recommendations to improve internal consistency for the concepts potency/control, activity/arousal, and novelty were also provided. © The Author(s) 2016.

Minimum 20 Years Long-term Clinical Outcome After Spinal Fusion and Instrumentation for Scoliosis: Comparison of the SRS-22 Patient Questionnaire With That in Nonscoliosis Group.

PubMed

Iida, Takahiro; Suzuki, Nobumasa; Kono, Katsuki; Ohyama, Yasumasa; Imura, Jyunya; Ato, Akihisa; Ozeki, Satoru; Nohara, Yutaka

2015-08-15

A retrospective minimum 20-year follow-up study using 4 standard self-administered questionnaires, one of which, the SRS-22 was also administered to control groups. To evaluate long-term postoperative pain and other clinical outcomes of scoliosis correction and fusion surgery with Harrington instrumentation using Moe square-ended rods for better preservation of sagittal alignment. Only a few long-term outcome studies have used standardized and validated self-administered tools, and no studies have established SRS-22 control data within their own population. There is no previous minimum 20-year follow-up evaluation after correction surgery preserving thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis. Of 86 consecutive patients who underwent instrumentation surgery for scoliosis by a single surgeon, 61 patients participated using Japanese Orthopaedic Association, Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire, Oswestry Disability Index, and Scoliosis Research Society (SRS-22) questionnaires and 51 patients were included in this study. Results were analyzed for pain and other clinical outcomes. A total of 771 hospital employees were sent SRS-22 questionnaires. A total of 763 responded, resulting in 2 control groups composed of nonscoliosis and untreated mild scoliosis controls of the same culture and language as the long-term follow-up group. The prevalence of continuous low back pain was about 15%. Average Japanese Orthopaedic Association, Oswestry Disability Index, and Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire scores at follow-up were 25 points, 7.3%, and 1.6, respectively. The average SRS-22 scores were 4.2 (function), 4.3 (pain), 3.7 (self-image), and 3.9 (mental health) for the postoperative follow-up group compared with 4.5 (function), 4.3 (pain), 3.5 (self-image), and 3.5 (mental health) for the nonscoliosis controls. Improved preservation of normal sagittal alignment resulted in a prevalence of low back pain comparable with the age-matched general population. Moreover, SRS-22 results for self-image and mental health were positive compared with the controls, possibly reflecting the surgeon's emphases on mental health and management of patient expectations. 4.

[Assessing various aspects of the motivation to eat that can affect food intake and body weight control].

PubMed

Bellisle, F

2009-04-01

Over the last 30 years, several questionnaires have been developed and validated in order to assess many aspects of the motivation to eat that might be susceptible to impair adequate food intake and body weight control. A few of such questionnaires are described here, in particular, the "Three Factor Eating Questionnaire" also called the "Eating Inventory", and the "Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire". Critical aspects of the motivation to eat assessed by these tools are presented, such as dietary restraint, disinhibition, hunger, vulnerability to eat in response to external cues or emotional states, etc. These questionnaires were developed for use in the general population with the aim to identify critical aspects of the motivation to eat that might predispose to weight gain. They have been widely used in many countries and have allowed an improved understanding of the individual characteristics that predispose to body weight gain or resistance to weight loss. Originally, poor body weight control was attributed to a high level of dietary "restraint", or in other words, the tendency to deliberately restrict one's food intake for body weight control purposes. Such dietary restraint was suspected to lead to a number of physical and psychological difficulties, among which poor self-esteem and a paradoxical tendency to gain weight, resulting from the incapacity to maintain strict restraint over time. More recent studies have established that a motivational trait called "Disinhibition" is a strong predictor of body weight gain over time and of poor outcome of dieting. "Disinhibition" corresponds to a tendency to lose control over one's eating behavior and ingest excessively large quantities of food substances, in response to a variety of cues and circumstances. In addition to its untoward effect on weight, disinhibition also predicts various risk factors and pathologies, such as hypertension and diabetes. Other potentially critical dimensions for adequate body weight control are "emotional eating" and "externality", which represent an individual's vulnerability to eat in response to emotional states or external cues, respectively. These questionnaires have been translated into French and validated for the French population. Average data are available for normal weight and obese French men and women. A gender difference is often reported: women, and even young girls, tend to have higher scores than males for most dimensions. These questionnaires have been extensively used in populations without psychiatric disorders, with the only exception of diagnosed eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia nervosa. The questionnaires have not been used until now in populations with other types of psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disease. Their relevance for such populations is now an important question, since last generation pharmaceutical treatments of such psychiatric disorders seem to adversely affect body weight control. It then becomes critical to know whether the psychological dimensions assessed by such questionnaires reflect the action of pharmacological agents that induce weight gain. A research project is now in progress at Sainte-Anne Hospital to investigate many dimensions of the motivation to eat, as assessed by the questionnaires, in psychiatric patients receiving various types of antipsychotic agents. The results of this original study might provide hints about the mechanisms that lead to body weight gain in patients receiving certain types of antipsychotic pharmacological agents and potentially help in preventing or reversing the weight gain associated with such treatments.

Personally addressed hand-signed letters increase questionnaire response: a meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

PubMed Central

Scott, Pippa; Edwards, Phil

2006-01-01

Background Postal questionnaires are commonly used to collect data for health studies, but non-response reduces study sample sizes and can introduce bias. Finding ways to increase the proportion of questionnaires returned would improve research quality. We sought to quantify the effect on response when researchers address participants personally by name on letters that accompany questionnaires. Methods All randomised controlled trials in a published systematic review that evaluated the effect on response of including participants' names on letters that accompany questionnaires were included. Odds ratios for response were pooled in a random effects meta-analysis and evidence for changes in effects over time was assessed using random effects meta-regression. Results Fourteen randomised controlled trials were included covering a wide range of topics. Most topics were unrelated to health or social care. The odds of response when including participants' names on letters were increased by one-fifth (pooled OR 1.18, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.34; p = 0.015). When participants' names and hand-written signatures were used in combination, the effect was a more substantial increase in response (OR 1.45, 95% CI 1.27 to 1.66; p < 0.001), corresponding to an absolute increase in the proportion of questionnaires returned of between 4% and 10%, depending on the baseline response rate. There was no evidence that the magnitude of these effects had declined over time. Conclusion This meta-analysis of the best available evidence indicates that researchers using postal questionnaires can increase response by addressing participants by name on cover letters. The effect appears to be enhanced by including hand-written signatures. PMID:16953871

Development and validation of a questionnaire to evaluate infection control in oral radiology

PubMed Central

Pinelli, Camila; da Silva Tagliaferro, Elaine P; Corrente, José E; Ambrosano, Glaucia M B

2017-01-01

Objectives: To create and validate a questionnaire to evaluate infection control in oral radiology. Methods: The questionnaire was developed after review of the literature, which included published articles and the biosafety protocols available from healthcare agencies. The initial version of the questionnaire was composed of 14 multiple choice questions and was divided into 3 domains on handwashing, disinfection/protection of surfaces and disinfectant used. Content validity was assessed by two expert committees, which reviewed the content and scope of the questionnaire and the relevance of each item, respectively. Reliability was evaluated using test–retest and internal consistency methods with 115 undergraduate dentistry students. Construct validity was assessed using the known-groups technique and factor analysis. The known-groups technique involved 641 undergraduate dentistry students, 20 PhD students and 15 oral radiology professors. In the factor analysis, 3 radiology technicians also participated in addition to the 641 undergraduates, 20 PhD students and 15 oral radiology professors. Results: The content validity results were found to be satisfactory to excellent for the ordinal variables (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.722–1.000) and good to great for the yes/no questions (kappa = 0.662–0.913) in terms of reliability and good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.88). After a factor analysis, some questions were excluded, and the questions were grouped into new domains. Significant differences were observed between answers from different groups. The final version of the questionnaire was composed of nine domains. Conclusions: The questionnaire created was found to exhibit good psychometric properties for assessing infection control in oral radiology. PMID:28112553

[Discriminating capacity of the MASI-R questionnaire in the perception of work-stress].

PubMed

Giorgi, Ines; Mainetti, Paolo; Fiabane, Elena; Bertolotti, Giorgio; Baiardi, Paola; Massidda, Davide; Tringali, Salvatore; Candura, Stefano Massimo; Imbriani, Marcello

2014-01-01

Workplace mobbing represents a severe type of occupational stress. The aim of this study is to evaluate the discriminant validity of the Maugeri Stress Index-Revised questionnaire (MASI-R) for the perceived work stress assessment. A total of 105 patients were enrolled at the Occupational Medicine Uinit of our Institute for mobbing-related issues; they were compared to a control group matched for age, sex and professional category. Work stress perception was assessed in both samples using the self-report questionnaire MASI-R, which is the Maugeri Stress Index short form. Workers who perceived exposure to mobbing scored significantly lower compared to the control group in the four MASI-R scales (p < 0.001) and in the two visual analogue scales measuring job satisfaction (p < 0.001) and life satisfaction (p < 0.001). Further analyses have identified the items which significant discriminate between the two groups of workers. These findings show a good discriminant validity of the MASI-R questionnaire: workers who perceived exposure to workplace mobbing reveal higher work stress levels compared to the control group in all aspects measured.

Influence of full mouth rehabilitation on oral health-related quality of life among disabled children.

PubMed

Al-Nowaiser, Abeer M; Al Suwyed, Abdulaziz S; Al Zoman, Khalid H; Robert, Asirvatham A; Al Brahim, Tarfa; Ciancio, Sebastian G; Al Mubarak, Sultan A; El Meligy, Omar A

2017-10-01

The efficacy of full mouth rehabilitation (FMR) on oral health-related quality of life of physically disabled children was assessed. This prospective study was performed at Dental Department of Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Humanitarian City, Riyadh, and King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, during May 2012 to September 2014. A total of 186 physically disabled children aged 11-14 years were assigned to a test group (n = 97) or a control group (n = 89). FMR was applied for test group children at baseline and 3 months' visits, whereas those in the control group did not receive FMR. Both group children received dental kits and oral hygiene instructions. Children were asked to complete the Child Perceptions Questionnaire, whereas Parental-Caregiver Perceptions Questionnaire and Family Distress Domain questionnaire were completed by the parents/caregivers at baseline and 6 months' visits. Children in both groups showed positive trends in oral symptoms at 6 months compared with those at baseline. However, when they were compared to control, significant improvement in oral symptoms was observed in the test group at 6 months' visit (p < .05). Also when they were compared to control, significant improvements were observed in the functional limitation, emotional, and social well-being subscales of the Child Perceptions Questionnaire and on the Parental-Caregiver Perceptions Questionnaire scales at the end of the study (p < .05). Compared to the parents/caregivers of the control children, the parents/caregivers of the test-group children reported insignificant but positive trends in Family Distress Domain at the end of the study (p < .05). FMR in children reduced oral-related problems subsequently to a better oral health-related quality of life.

Elder American Indian women's knowledge of pelvic floor disorders and barriers to seeking care.

PubMed

Dunivan, Gena C; Komesu, Yuko M; Cichowski, Sara B; Lowery, Christine; Anger, Jennifer T; Rogers, Rebecca G

2015-01-01

The objectives of this study are to evaluate urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse knowledge among elder southwestern American Indian women and to assess barriers to care for pelvic floor disorders through community-engaged research. Our group was invited to provide an educational talk on urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse at an annual meeting of American Indian elders. Female attendees aged 55 years or older anonymously completed demographic information and 2 validated questionnaires, the Prolapse and Incontinence Knowledge Questionnaire (PIKQ) and Barriers to Incontinence Care Seeking Questionnaire (BICS-Q). Questionnaire results were compared with historical controls from the original PIKQ and BICS-Q validation study. One hundred forty-four women completed the questionnaires. The mean age was 77.7 ± 9.1 years. The mean (SD) for PIKQ of urinary incontinence score was 6.6 (3.0) (similar to historic gynecology controls 6.8 [3.3], P = 0.49), and the mean (SD) for PIKQ on pelvic organ prolapse score was 5.4 (2.9) (better than historic gynecology controls 3.6 [3.2], P < 0.01). Barriers to care seeking reported by the elder women were highest on the BICS-Q subscales of "cost" and "inconvenience." Urinary incontinence knowledge is similar to historic gynecology controls, and pelvic organ prolapse knowledge is higher than historic gynecology controls among elder southwestern American Indian women. American Indian elder women report high levels of barriers to care. The greatest barriers to care seeking for this population were related to cost and inconvenience, reflecting the importance of assessing socioeconomic status when investigating barriers to care. Addressing these barriers may enhance care-seeking southwestern American Indian women.

Randomised controlled comparison of the Health Survey Short Form (SF-12) and the Graded Chronic Pain Scale (GCPS) in telephone interviews versus self-administered questionnaires. Are the results equivalent?

PubMed

Lungenhausen, Margitta; Lange, Stefan; Maier, Christoph; Schaub, Claudia; Trampisch, Hans J; Endres, Heinz G

2007-11-22

The most commonly used survey methods are self-administered questionnaires, telephone interviews, and a mixture of both. But until now evidence out of randomised controlled trials as to whether patient responses differ depending on the survey mode is lacking. Therefore this study assessed whether patient responses to surveys depend on the mode of survey administration. The comparison was between mailed, self-administered questionnaires and telephone interviews. A four-armed, randomised controlled two-period change-over design. Each patient responded to the same survey twice, once in written form and once by telephone interview, separated by at least a fortnight. The study was conducted in 2003/2004 in Germany. 1087 patients taking part in the German Acupuncture Trials (GERAC cohort study), who agreed to participate in a survey after completing acupuncture treatment from an acupuncture-certified family physician for headache, were randomised. Of these, 823 (664 women) from the ages of 18 to 83 (mean 51.7) completed both parts of the study. The main outcome measure was the comparison of the scores on the 12-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-12) and the Graded Chronic Pain Scale (GCPS) questionnaire for the two survey modes. Computer-aided telephone interviews (CATI) resulted in significantly fewer missing data (0.5%) than did mailed questionnaires (2.8%; p < 0.001). The analysis of equivalence revealed a difference between the survey modes only for the SF-12 mental scales. On average, reported mental status score was 3.5 score points (2.9 to 4.0) lower on the self-administered questionnaire compared to the telephone interview. The order of administration affected results. Patients who responded to the telephone interview first reported better mental health in the subsequent paper questionnaire (mean difference 2.8 score points) compared to those who responded to the paper questionnaire first (mean difference 4.1 score points). Despite the comparatively high cost of telephone interviews, they offer clear advantages over mailed self-administered questionnaires as regards completeness of data. Only items concerning mental status were dependent on the survey mode and sequence of administration. Items on physical status were not affected. Normative data for standardized telephone questionnaires could contribute to a better comparability with the results of the corresponding standardized paper questionnaires.

Randomised controlled comparison of the Health Survey Short Form (SF-12) and the Graded Chronic Pain Scale (GCPS) in telephone interviews versus self-administered questionnaires. Are the results equivalent?

PubMed Central

Lungenhausen, Margitta; Lange, Stefan; Maier, Christoph; Schaub, Claudia; Trampisch, Hans J; Endres, Heinz G

2007-01-01

Background The most commonly used survey methods are self-administered questionnaires, telephone interviews, and a mixture of both. But until now evidence out of randomised controlled trials as to whether patient responses differ depending on the survey mode is lacking. Therefore this study assessed whether patient responses to surveys depend on the mode of survey administration. The comparison was between mailed, self-administered questionnaires and telephone interviews. Methods A four-armed, randomised controlled two-period change-over design. Each patient responded to the same survey twice, once in written form and once by telephone interview, separated by at least a fortnight. The study was conducted in 2003/2004 in Germany. 1087 patients taking part in the German Acupuncture Trials (GERAC cohort study), who agreed to participate in a survey after completing acupuncture treatment from an acupuncture-certified family physician for headache, were randomised. Of these, 823 (664 women) from the ages of 18 to 83 (mean 51.7) completed both parts of the study. The main outcome measure was the comparison of the scores on the 12-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-12) and the Graded Chronic Pain Scale (GCPS) questionnaire for the two survey modes. Results Computer-aided telephone interviews (CATI) resulted in significantly fewer missing data (0.5%) than did mailed questionnaires (2.8%; p < 0.001). The analysis of equivalence revealed a difference between the survey modes only for the SF-12 mental scales. On average, reported mental status score was 3.5 score points (2.9 to 4.0) lower on the self-administered questionnaire compared to the telephone interview. The order of administration affected results. Patients who responded to the telephone interview first reported better mental health in the subsequent paper questionnaire (mean difference 2.8 score points) compared to those who responded to the paper questionnaire first (mean difference 4.1 score points). Conclusion Despite the comparatively high cost of telephone interviews, they offer clear advantages over mailed self-administered questionnaires as regards completeness of data. Only items concerning mental status were dependent on the survey mode and sequence of administration. Items on physical status were not affected. Normative data for standardized telephone questionnaires could contribute to a better comparability with the results of the corresponding standardized paper questionnaires. PMID:18034900

[French version of screening questionnaire for high-functioning autism or Asperger syndrome in adolescent: Autism Spectrum Quotient, Empathy Quotient and Systemizing Quotient. Protocol and questionnaire translation].

PubMed

Sonié, Sandrine; Kassai, Behrouz; Pirat, Elodie; Masson, Sandrine; Bain, Paul; Robinson, Janine; Reboul, Anne; Wicker, Bruno; Chevallier, Coralie; Beaude-Chervet, Véronique; Deleage, Marie-Hélène; Charvet, Dorothée; Barthélémy, Catherine; Rochet, Thierry; Tatou, Mohamed; Arnaud, Valérie; Manificat, Sabine

2011-04-01

No tools are currently available in France, for the detection of autism without mental retardation (high functioning autism and Asperger syndrome here referred as TED SDI). Use of screening tests by first-line clinicians would allow better detection of children who are likely to display such difficulties and to improve patients' care. In England, 3 questionnaires have been evaluated: Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ), Empathy Quotient (EQ), and Systemizing Quotient (SQ). This is the translation and evaluation of 3 questionnaires in France for TED SDI and control adolescents. The translation of the questionnaires into French required two simultaneous translations, two back-translations and two consensus meetings. This is a cross-sectional study comparing scores obtained with the three AQ, EQ and SQ questionnaires. These questionnaires were completed by the parents of four groups of adolescents 11-18 years: 100 TED SDI adolescents (50 with IQ ≥ 85 and 50 with 70≤IQ<85), 50 adolescents with another psychiatric disorder (TP) and 200 control adolescents (T). 580 questionnaires have been sent to 40 recruiting centres. By the 28th of February, 2010, 277 completed questionnaires were received completed (TED SDI: 70 (70%); TP: 25 (50%) et T: 182 (91%)). In the control group, 92 girls (mean 14.4±1.7 years) and 66 boys (14.5±1.7 years) were recruited. In the TED SDI group, 4 girls (14.3±2.4 years) and 42 boys (14.5±1.7 years) were recruited. One girl (81) and 6 boys (72.2±7.7) have an IQ between 70 and 85, and 3 girls (95.3±4.2) and 36 boys (102.9±12) have an IQ higher than 85. In the TP group, 9 girls (15.9±1.7 years) and 4 boys (15.8±1.9 years) were recruited. The aim of this study is to make the AQ, EQ and SQ questionnaires available in French for French speaking clinicians. This study will allow a rigorous evaluation of the usefulness of the AQ questionnaire in the screening of TED SDI in adolescents. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Comparing the Berlin and the ARES questionnaire to identify patients with obstructive sleep apnea in a dental setting.

PubMed

Enciso, Reyes; Clark, Glenn T

2011-01-01

The aim of this study was to compare the sensitivity and specificity of two questionnaires to identify patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Fifty-three moderate to severe OSA patients [with a respiratory disturbance index (RDI) ≥ 15] and 31 controls (RDI < 15) based on ambulatory somnographic assessment were recruited through flyers and mail at USC School of Dentistry. Each patient answered the Berlin and apnea risk evaluation system (ARES) questionnaires. The responses to the questionnaires were scored and compared for significant group differences. Moderate and severe OSA patients were predominantly male, older, had a larger neck size, and larger body mass index than controls. There were no significant differences in race or ethnicity between the two groups. In this study, subjects having a "high risk" ARES questionnaire were 7.9 times as likely to have OSA as subjects with "low or no risk" score (p = 0.0002). The ARES questionnaire had a sensitivity of 90.6%, specificity of 43.2%, a positive predictive value (PPV) of 73.8%, and negative predictive value (NPV) of 73.7% compared to 67.9%, 54.8%, 72%, and 50%, respectively, for the Berlin questionnaire using a cut point of RDI ≥ 15. In this specific patient group, not uncommon to the regular dental private practice, the ARES questionnaire performed better than the Berlin questionnaire with higher sensitivity, similar PPV, higher NPV, but lower specificity. The lower specificity could be explained in part because the ARES has been tailored to screen patients with an RDI ≥ 5, and our study included mostly mild to severe patients. In conclusion, in this specific group of subjects, the ARES questionnaire is a better choice than the Berlin questionnaire; however, the Berlin questionnaire is publicly available and the ARES screener is proprietary.

QUALITY OF LIFE IN PATIENTS WITH GRAVES OPHTHALMOPATHY

PubMed Central

Yeatts, R. Patrick

2005-01-01

Purpose To assess the quality of life in patients with Graves ophthalmopathy by means of a prospective questionnaire with validation. Methods A questionnaire containing 105 items was sent to 325 patients seen in our university-based oculoplastic clinic. Two hundred three questionnaires were returned and were suitable for analysis. Fifty-three consecutive patients with Graves disease who presented to the clinic for examination also completed the questionnaire. The questionnaire was validated by administering it to 33 healthy subjects who had no history of Graves disease or thyroid disorder. The results were compared with those of normal subjects and with national norms for visually impaired populations. The relationship of individual questionnaire items to measures of clinical severity was subsequently assessed. Results Patients with Graves ophthalmopathy report greater impairment in both physical (44.4 versus 51.9; P < .001) and mental (43.8 versus 51.8; P < .001) health; poorer self- image (P < .001); and significantly more disturbance in their sleep, social function, and work function (P < .001) than controls. Afflicted patients also experience significantly more diplopia, blurred vision, and dry eye symptoms than controls (P < .001). Individual questionnaire items were found to correlate with clinical disease severity scores and were used to establish a Graves ophthalmopathy quality-of-life questionnaire with disease severity validation. Conclusions Patients with Graves disease are significantly impaired in their social and vocational function because of the ophthalmic manifestations of the disease. A short questionnaire that correlates with clinical measures of disease severity may be a useful measure of quality of life in this disease. PMID:17057811

Validation of the exercise and eating disorder questionnaire in males with and without eating disorders

PubMed Central

Bjørnelv, Sigrid; Bratberg, Grete Helen; Rø, Øyvind

2018-01-01

Abstract Objective The need to consider gender when studying exercise in eating disorder (ED) has been underscored. The study aimed to test the psychometric properties and factor structure of the exercise and eating disorder (EED) questionnaire for males with and without ED, to highlight gender differences, and to explore issues relevant for a male version of the EED questionnaire. Method This cross sectional study included 258 male participants: 55 ED patients (inpatients and outpatients) and 203 student controls. The patient group consisted of 54.5% (n = 30) with AN, 18.2% (n = 10) with BN, 27.2% (n = 15) with unspecified ED. The ED sample was treated as transdiagnostic in all analyses. t Tests, chi‐square test, correlations analyses, and a principal component analysis were conducted. Results The analyses confirmed that the EED questionnaire had adequate psychometric properties, and a four‐factor solution: (a) compulsive exercise, (b) positive and healthy exercise, (c) awareness of bodily signals, and (d) weight and shape exercise. The questionnaire discriminated significantly (p < .01– < .001) between patients and controls on the global score, subscales, and 16 out of 18 individual items. Convergent validity was demonstrated by high correlations between the EED questionnaire and the eating disorder examination questionnaire (r = .65). Discussion The results indicated that the EED questionnaire is a valid and reliable tool for males. It is a clinically derived, self‐report questionnaire to assess compulsive exercise among ED patients, regarding attitudes and thoughts toward compulsive exercise and identification of treatment targets and priorities PMID:29537659

The MPC&A Questionnaire

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Powell, Danny H; Elwood Jr, Robert H

The questionnaire is the instrument used for recording performance data on the nuclear material protection, control, and accountability (MPC&A) system at a nuclear facility. The performance information provides a basis for evaluating the effectiveness of the MPC&A system. The goal for the questionnaire is to provide an accurate representation of the performance of the MPC&A system as it currently exists in the facility. Performance grades for all basic MPC&A functions should realistically reflect the actual level of performance at the time the survey is conducted. The questionnaire was developed after testing and benchmarking the material control and accountability (MC&A) systemmore » effectiveness tool (MSET) in the United States. The benchmarking exercise at the Idaho National Laboratory (INL) proved extremely valuable for improving the content and quality of the early versions of the questionnaire. Members of the INL benchmark team identified many areas of the questionnaire where questions should be clarified and areas where additional questions should be incorporated. The questionnaire addresses all elements of the MC&A system. Specific parts pertain to the foundation for the facility's overall MPC&A system, and other parts pertain to the specific functions of the operational MPC&A system. The questionnaire includes performance metrics for each of the basic functions or tasks performed in the operational MPC&A system. All of those basic functions or tasks are represented as basic events in the MPC&A fault tree. Performance metrics are to be used during completion of the questionnaire to report what is actually being done in relation to what should be done in the performance of MPC&A functions.« less

Southeastern Virtual Institute for Health Equity and Wellness (SEVIEW) Phase II

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-09-01

level intervention has been tested using community focus groups , following the CBPR approach • A Community Oral Health Promoter (COHP) has been hired...questionnaire immediately prior to their primary care visit and receive a summary printout for their physician; (B) The control group will take the...interactive tablet-based questionnaire, will show more improvement in the above outcomes than participants in the control group after 12 months of

Locus of Control & Motivation Strategies for Learning Questionnaire: Predictors of Student Success on the ATI Comprehensive Predictor Exam & NCLEX-RN Examination

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Carpenter, Jane H.

2011-01-01

The two purposes of this study were to determine whether locus of control (LOC) was predictive of how a student would perform on the ATI Comprehensive Predictor Exam and the NCLEX-RN, and if the Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire (MSLQ) provided information that would help determine predictors of success on these two exams. The study…

Effect on mental health of a participatory intervention to improve psychosocial work environment: a cluster randomized controlled trial among nurses.

PubMed

Uchiyama, Ayako; Odagiri, Yuko; Ohya, Yumiko; Takamiya, Tomoko; Inoue, Shigeru; Shimomitsu, Teruichi

2013-01-01

Improvement of psychosocial work environment has proved to be valuable for workers' mental health. However, limited evidence is available for the effectiveness of participatory interventions. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect on mental health among nurses of a participatory intervention to improve the psychosocial work environment. A cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted in hospital settings. A total of 434 nurses in 24 units were randomly allocated to 11 intervention units (n=183) and 13 control units (n=218). A participatory program was provided to the intervention units for 6 months. Depressive symptoms as mental health status and psychosocial work environment, assessed by the Job Content Questionnaire, the Effort-Reward Imbalance Questionnaire, and the Quality Work Competence questionnaire, were measured before and immediately after the 6-month intervention by a self-administered questionnaire. No significant intervention effect was observed for mental health status. However, significant intervention effects were observed in psychosocial work environment aspects, such as Coworker Support (p<0.01) and Goals (p<0.01), and borderline significance was observed for Job Control (p<0.10). It is suggested that a 6-month participatory intervention is effective in improving psychosocial work environment, but not mental health, among Japanese nurses.

The Personality Profile of Tinnitus Sufferers and a Nontinnitus Control Group.

PubMed

Durai, Mithila; O'Keeffe, Mary G; Searchfield, Grant D

2017-04-01

Chronic tinnitus (phantom perception of sound) significantly disrupts quality of life in 15-20% of those who experience it. Understanding how certain personality traits impact tinnitus perception and distress can be beneficial for the development of interventions to improve the lives of tinnitus sufferers. Four key self-reported personality traits (social closeness, stress reaction, alienation, and self-control) were identified from previous research as being associated with tinnitus. These were compared between tinnitus and age-, gender-, and hearing level-matched nontinnitus controls to see whether underlying profile differences exist, and if personality traits levels correlate with various tinnitus characteristics assessed in typical clinical questionnaires. A Web-based personality survey was administered comprising of self-control, stress reaction, alienation, and social closeness subscale questions of the Multidimensional Personality Questionnaire, the Hearing Handicap Inventory-Screening Version, TFI, and the Tinnitus Case History Questionnaire. A total of 154 participants with tinnitus (81 males, 73 females, mean age = 62.6 yr) and 61 control (32 males, 29 females, mean age = 59.62 yr) participants were recruited via e-mail invitations to a tinnitus research clinic database, poster, and social media Web site advertising. Statistical analysis was conducted using parametric statistics and IBM SPSS ® Version 22 software. Tinnitus sufferers displayed higher levels of stress reaction, lower social closeness, lower self-control, and higher alienation than the control group (p < 0.05). Alienation was related to tinnitus pitch and self-reported hyperacusis measured using the Tinnitus Case History Questionnaire (p < 0.05). Stress reaction correlated with self-reported hyperacusis, whether tinnitus sufferers had sought other treatments, and whether loud sounds make the tinnitus worse (p < 0.05). The four personality traits examined in this study exhibited a consistent association with tinnitus perception and distress, and differentiated tinnitus sufferers from nontinnitus control. Some of the traits also correlated significantly with certain characteristics measured in tinnitus history questionnaires. Personality traits are described in relation to "maladaptive" residuals under the Adaptation Level Theory model of tinnitus. The results of the study suggest that certain personality traits correlate with the clinical presentation of tinnitus. American Academy of Audiology

The efficacy of a standardized questionnaire in facilitating personalized communication about problems encountered in cancer genetic counseling: design of a randomized controlled trial

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Individuals with a personal or family history of cancer, can opt for genetic counseling and DNA-testing. Approximately 25% of these individuals experience clinically relevant levels of psychosocial distress, depression and/or anxiety after counseling. These problems are frequently left undetected by genetic counselors. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of a cancer genetics-specific screening questionnaire for psychosocial problems, the ‘Psychosocial Aspects of Hereditary Cancer (PAHC) questionnaire’ together with the Distress Thermometer, in: (1) facilitating personalized counselor-counselee communication; (2) increasing counselors’ awareness of their counselees’ psychosocial problems; and (3) facilitating the management of psychosocial problems during and after genetic counseling. Methods This multicenter, randomized controlled trial will include 264 individuals undergoing cancer genetic counseling in two family cancer clinics in the Netherlands. Participants will be randomized to either: (1) an intervention group that completes the PAHC questionnaire, the results of which are made available to the genetic counselor prior to the counseling session; or (2) a control group that completes the PAHC questionnaire, but without feedback being given to the genetic counselor. The genetic counseling sessions will be audiotaped for content analysis. Additionally, study participants will be asked to complete questionnaires at baseline, three weeks after the initial counseling session, and four months after a telephone follow-up counseling session. The genetic counselors will be asked to complete questionnaires at the start of and at completion of the study, as well as a checklist directly after each counseling session. The questionnaires/checklists of the study include items on communication during genetic counseling, counselor awareness of their clients’ psychosocial problems, the (perceived) need for professional psychosocial support, cancer worries, general distress, specific psychosocial problems, satisfaction with care received, and experience using the PAHC questionnaire. Discussion This study will provide empirical evidence regarding the efficacy of a relatively brief psychosocial screening questionnaire in terms of facilitating personalized communication, increasing counselors’ awareness, and optimizing management of psychosocial problems in the cancer genetic counseling setting. Trial registration This study is registered at the Netherlands Trial Register (NTR3205) and ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01562431). PMID:24428912

Validation of the Spanish version of the Test for Respiratory and Asthma Control in Kids (TRACK) in a population of Hispanic preschoolers.

PubMed

Rodríguez-Martínez, Carlos E; Nino, Gustavo; Castro-Rodriguez, Jose A

2014-01-01

There is a critical need for validation studies of questionnaires designed to assess the level of control of asthma in children younger than 5 years old. To validate the Spanish version of the Test for Respiratory and Asthma Control in Kids (TRACK) questionnaire in children younger than age 5 years with symptoms consistent with asthma. In a prospective cohort validation study, parents and/or caregivers of children younger than age 5 years and with symptoms consistent with asthma, during a baseline and a follow-up visit 2 to 6 weeks later, completed the information required to assess the content validity, criterion validity, construct validity, test-retest reliability, sensitivity to change, internal consistency reliability, and usability of the TRACK questionnaire. Median (interquartile range) of the TRACK scores were significantly different between patients with well-controlled asthma, patients with not well-controlled asthma, and patients with very poorly controlled asthma (90.0 [75.0-95.0], 75.0 [55.0-85.0], and 35.0 [25.0-55.0], respectively, P < .001). TRACK scores were significantly different between patients classified as currently symptomatic and symptomatic in the recent past (42.5 [25.0-55.0] vs 85.0 [75.0-90.0]; P < .001). The intraclass correlation coefficient of the measurements was 0.755 (95% CI, 0.503-1.00). All patients whose clinical status changed showed an increase of 10 or more points in TRACK score between baseline and follow-up visits. The Cronbach α was 0.77 for the questionnaire as a whole. The Spanish version of the TRACK questionnaire has excellent sensitivity to change and usability; adequate criterion validity, construct validity, and test-retest reliability; and an acceptable internal consistency, when used in children younger than age 5 years with symptoms consistent with asthma. Copyright © 2014 American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Development and validation of a new instrument to evaluate the ease of use of patient-controlled analgesic modalities for postoperative patients.

PubMed

Harding, Gale; Schein, Jeff R; Nelson, Winnie W; Vallow, Sue; Olson, William H; Hewitt, David J; Polomano, Rosemary C

2010-03-01

To describe the development and psychometric evaluation of a questionnaire assessing the ease of use that patients associate with patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) modalities. Qualitative interviews were conducted with patients who had experience with intravenous (IV) PCA for postoperative pain management to generate items relevant to the ease of using PCA modalities. The content validity of the resulting questionnaire was examined through follow-up patient interviews, and an expert panel reviewed the questionnaire. Cognitive debriefing interviews were conducted with patients to determine the clarity and content of the instructions, items, and response scales, and the ease of completing the instrument. Psychometric evaluation was performed with patients who had undergone surgery and received IV PCA for postoperative pain management. Item and scale quality and the internal consistency reliability of the questionnaire were assessed. Construct validity was evaluated by examining the relationship between subscales of the questionnaire with patient-reported outcome measures. Known-groups validity was determined by assessing the instrument's ability to differentiate between patients with versus without an IV PCA problem. A potential limitation of this study was the exclusive sampling of patients who had experience with IV PCA. The Patient Ease-of-Care (EOC) Questionnaire included 23 items in the following subscales: Confidence with Device, Comfort with Device, Movement, Dosing Confidence, Pain Control, Knowledge/Understanding, and Satisfaction. Coefficient alpha reliability estimates were ≥ 0.66 for Overall EOC (includes all subscales except Satisfaction) and all EOC subscales. Construct validity was supported by the moderate relationship between the Pain Control subscale and measures of pain severity and pain interference; additional evidence of construct validity was provided by correlations of the Confidence with Device subscale, the Satisfaction subscale, and Overall EOC with measures of pain severity, pain interference, and satisfaction. Significant mean score differences were reported between participants with and without IV PCA problems for Overall EOC and for the Comfort with Device, Confidence with Device, Movement, Pain Control, and Satisfaction subscales indicating known-groups validity. Results provide evidence for the reliability and validity of the Patient EOC Questionnaire as a measure of the ease of use that patients associate with PCA systems and may be useful for evaluating emerging PCA modalities.

Suboptimal Weight Loss and Weight Regain after Gastric Bypass Surgery-Postoperative Status of Energy Intake, Eating Behavior, Physical Activity, and Psychometrics.

PubMed

Amundsen, Tina; Strømmen, Magnus; Martins, Catia

2017-05-01

Suboptimal weight loss (SWL) and weight regain (WR) after gastric bypass surgery (GB) remains poorly understood. This study aims to compare GB patients experiencing SWL or significant WR (SigWR) with successful controls, regarding postoperative food intake, eating behavior, physical activity (PA), and psychometrics. Forty-nine patients with >1 year post-surgery were classified as either experiencing SWL (excess body weight loss, EWL, <50%, n = 22) or SigWR (total weight regain ≥15%, n = 38), with respective control groups. Energy intake (EI) was measured with a Food Frequency Questionnaire, eating behavior using the Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire and the Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire, and PA using both SenseWear Armbands and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Eating disorders, depression, and quality of life (QoL) were measured using the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire, Beck Depression Inventory II, and Impact of Weight on Quality of Life, respectively. EI, macronutrient distribution, and meal frequency were similar among groups. However, disinhibited eating behavior score was higher, while most subcategories from IWQOL were significantly lower in both SWL and SigWR groups compared with their respective controls. PA was significantly lower in the SWL and SigWR groups compared with the respective controls. There were no differences between groups regarding depression. Lower PA levels, disordered eating behavior and lower QoL are associated with unsuccessful weigh loss outcome after GB surgery. Longitudinal studies are needed to clarify the potential causal relationship between the previously described variables and SWL/SigWR after GB.

A parent-report gender identity questionnaire for children.

PubMed

Johnson, Laurel L; Bradley, Susan J; Birkenfeld-Adams, Andrea S; Kuksis, Myra A Radzins; Maing, Dianne M; Mitchell, Janet N; Zucker, Kenneth J

2004-04-01

This paper reports on the psychometric properties of a 16-item parent-report Gender Identity Questionnaire, originally developed by P. H. Elizabeth and R. Green (1984), to aid in the assessment of children with potential problems in their gender identity development. The questionnaire, which covered aspects of the core phenomenology of gender identity disorder (GID), was completed by parents of gender-referred children (N = 325) and controls (siblings, clinic-referred, and nonreferred; N = 504), who ranged in age from 2.5-12 years (mean age, 7.6 years). Factor-analysis indicated that a one-factor solution, containing 14 of the 16 items with factor loadings > or =.30, best fit the data, accounting for 43.7% of the variance. The gender-referred children had a significantly more deviant total score than did the controls, with a large effect size of 3.70. The GIQ total score had negligible age effects, indicating that the questionnaire has utility for assessing change over time. The gender-referred children who met the complete DSM criteria for GID had a significantly more deviant total score than did the children who were subthreshold for GID, although the latter group had a mean score that was closer to the threshold cases than to the controls. With a specificity rate set at 95% for the controls, the sensitivity rate for the probands was 86.8%. It is concluded that this parent-report gender identity questionnaire has excellent psychometric properties and can serve as a useful screening device for front-line clinicians, for whom more extensive, expensive, and time-consuming assessment procedures may be precluded.

Objective Versus Subjective Measures of Executive Functions: Predictors of Participation and Quality of Life in Parkinson Disease?

PubMed

Vlagsma, Thialda T; Koerts, Janneke; Tucha, Oliver; Dijkstra, Hilde T; Duits, Annelien A; van Laar, Teus; Spikman, Jacoba M

2017-11-01

To determine whether objective (neuropsychological tests) and subjective measures (questionnaires) of executive functions (EFs) are associated in patients with Parkinson disease (PD), and to determine to what extent level of participation and quality of life (QoL) of patients with PD can be predicted by these measures of EFs. Correlational research design (case-control and prediction design). Departments of neuropsychology of 3 medical centers. A sample (N=136) of patients with PD (n=42) and their relatives, and controls without PD (n=94). Not applicable. A test battery measuring EFs. In addition, patients, their relatives, and controls completed the Dysexecutive Questionnaire, Brock Adaptive Functioning Questionnaire, and Barkley Deficits in Executive Functioning Scale - time management questionnaires measuring complaints about EFs. Participation and QoL were measured with the Impact on Participation and Autonomy scale and the Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire-39, respectively. Patients with PD showed impairments in EFs on objective tests and reported significantly more complaints about EFs than did controls without PD. No associations were found between patients' performances on objective and subjective measures of EFs. However, both objective and subjective measures predicted patients' level of participation. In addition, subjective measures of EFs predicted QoL in patients with PD. These findings show that objective and subjective measures of EFs are not interchangeable and that both approaches predict level of participation and QoL in patients with PD. However, within this context, sex needs to be taken into account. Copyright © 2017 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

78 FR 36305 - Proposed Information Collection (Non-Degenerative Arthritis (Including Inflammatory, Autoimmune...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-06-17

..., crystalline and infectious arthritis) and Dysbaric Osteonecrosis Disability Benefits Questionnaire). Type of... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900--NEW] Proposed Information Collection (Non... Osteonecrosis Disability Benefits Questionnaire) Activity: Comment Request AGENCY: Veterans Benefits...

Development of the Comprehensive General Parenting Questionnaire for caregivers of 5-13 year olds.

PubMed

Sleddens, Ester F C; O'Connor, Teresia M; Watson, Kathleen B; Hughes, Sheryl O; Power, Thomas G; Thijs, Carel; De Vries, Nanne K; Kremers, Stef P J

2014-02-10

Despite the large number of parenting questionnaires, considerable disagreement exists about how to best assess parenting. Most of the instruments only assess limited aspects of parenting. To overcome this shortcoming, the "Comprehensive General Parenting Questionnaire" (CGPQ) was systematically developed. Such a measure is frequently requested in the area of childhood overweight. First, an item bank of existing parenting measures was created assessing five key parenting constructs that have been identified across multiple theoretical approaches to parenting (Nurturance, Overprotection, Coercive control, Behavioral control, and Structure). Caregivers of 5- to 13-year-olds were asked to complete the online survey in the Netherlands (N = 821), Belgium (N = 435) and the United States (N = 241). In addition, a questionnaire regarding personality characteristics ("Big Five") of the caregiver was administered and parents were asked to report about their child's height and weight. Factor analyses and Item-Response Modeling (IRM) techniques were used to assess the underlying parenting constructs and for item reduction. Correlation analyses were performed to assess the relations between general parenting and personality of the caregivers, adjusting for socio-economic status (SES) indicators, to establish criterion validity. Multivariate linear regressions were performed to examine the associations of SES indicators and parenting with child BMI z-scores. Additionally, we assessed whether scores on the parenting constructs and child BMI z-scores differed depending on SES indicators. The reduced questionnaire (62 items) revealed acceptable fit of our parenting model and acceptable IRM item fit statistics. Caregiver personality was related as hypothesized with the GCPQ parenting constructs. While correcting for SES, overprotection was positively related to child BMI. The negative relationship between structure and BMI was borderline significant. Parents with a high level of education were less likely to use overly forms of controlling parenting (i.e., coercive control and overprotection) and more likely to have children with lower BMI. Based on several author review meetings and cognitive interviews the questionnaire was further modified to an 85-item questionnaire. The GCPQ may facilitate research exploring how parenting influences children's weight-related behaviors. The contextual influence of general parenting is likely to be more profound than its direct relationship with weight status.

Interrelationships of Hormones, Diet, Body Size and Breast Cancer Among Hispanic Women

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-09-01

faculty, and 2) to design and conduct a clinic-based case-control study to include completion of a questionnaire, anthropometry and a blood draw...clinic-based case- control study to include completion of a questionnaire, anthropometry and a blood draw, 3) to disseminate findings to the Texas...Psychosocial stress, coping and prostate cancer. Ethnicity Dis (In Press). Sanderson M, Coker AL, Perez A, Du XL , Peltz G, Fadden MK. A

Dispositional optimism and coping with pain.

PubMed

Bargiel-Matusiewicz, K; Krzyszkowska, A

2009-12-07

The aim of this article is to analyze the relation between dispositional optimism and coping with chronic pain. The study seeks to define the relation between life orientation (optimism vs. pessimism) and coping with pain (believes about pain control and the choice of coping strategy). The following questionnaires were used: LOT-R - Life Orientation Test, BPCQ - The Beliefs about Pain Control Questionnaire and CSQ - The Pain Coping Strategies Questionnaire. The results show that dispositional optimism correlates positively with: internal locus of pain control r=0.6, P<0.01; declared coping with pain r=0.38, P<0.05; diverting attention r = 0.93, P<0.01; and behavioral activity r = 0.82, P<0.01. Dispositional optimism correlates negatively with catastrophizing r = -0.28, P<0.05. We conclude that dispositional optimism plays a key role in forming the mechanisms of coping with chronic pain and thereby in improving the psychophysical comfort of patients.

Assessment of symptoms of urinary incontinence in women with polycystic ovary syndrome.

PubMed

Montezuma, Thais; Antônio, Flávia Ignácio; Rosa e Silva, Ana Carolina Japur de Sá; Sá, Marcos Felipe Silva de; Ferriani, Rui Alberto; Ferreira, Cristine Homsi Jorge

2011-01-01

The pelvic floor muscles are sensitive to androgens, and due to hyperandrogenism, women with polycystic ovary syndrome can have increased mass in these muscles compared to controls. The aim of this study is to compare reports of urine leakage and quality of life between women with and without polycystic ovary syndrome. One hundred thirteen 18-to 40-year-old nulliparous women with polycystic ovary syndrome or without the disease (controls) were recruited at the University Hospital of School Medicine of São Paulo University at Ribeirão Preto City, Brazil. The subjects were not taking any hormonal medication, had not undergone previous pelvic surgery and did not exercise their pelvic floor muscles. The women were divided into the following four groups: I-polycystic ovary syndrome with normal body mass index (n = 18), II-polycystic ovary syndrome with body mass index >25 (n = 32), III-controls with normal body mass index (n = 29), and IV-controls with Body Mass Index >25 (n = 34). Quality of life was evaluated using the SF-36 questionnaire, and the subjects with urinary complaints also completed the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Short Form to evaluate the severity of their urinary incontinence. The replies to the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Short Form revealed a significant difference in urinary function between groups, with 24% of the subjects in group IV reporting urinary incontinence. The mean scores for the SF-36 questionnaire revealed that group II had the lowest quality of life. The control obese group (IV) reported a higher prevalence of urinary incontinence. There was no difference in the reported frequency of urine loss between the polycystic ovary syndrome and control groups with normal body mass index or between the polycystic ovary syndrome and control groups with body mass index >25.

Validation of the exercise and eating disorder questionnaire in males with and without eating disorders.

PubMed

Danielsen, Marit; Bjørnelv, Sigrid; Bratberg, Grete Helen; Rø, Øyvind

2018-05-01

The need to consider gender when studying exercise in eating disorder (ED) has been underscored. The study aimed to test the psychometric properties and factor structure of the exercise and eating disorder (EED) questionnaire for males with and without ED, to highlight gender differences, and to explore issues relevant for a male version of the EED questionnaire. This cross sectional study included 258 male participants: 55 ED patients (inpatients and outpatients) and 203 student controls. The patient group consisted of 54.5% (n = 30) with AN, 18.2% (n = 10) with BN, 27.2% (n = 15) with unspecified ED. The ED sample was treated as transdiagnostic in all analyses. t Tests, chi-square test, correlations analyses, and a principal component analysis were conducted. The analyses confirmed that the EED questionnaire had adequate psychometric properties, and a four-factor solution: (a) compulsive exercise, (b) positive and healthy exercise, (c) awareness of bodily signals, and (d) weight and shape exercise. The questionnaire discriminated significantly (p < .01- < .001) between patients and controls on the global score, subscales, and 16 out of 18 individual items. Convergent validity was demonstrated by high correlations between the EED questionnaire and the eating disorder examination questionnaire (r = .65). The results indicated that the EED questionnaire is a valid and reliable tool for males. It is a clinically derived, self-report questionnaire to assess compulsive exercise among ED patients, regarding attitudes and thoughts toward compulsive exercise and identification of treatment targets and priorities. © 2018 The Authors International Journal of Eating Disorders Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Analyzing symptom data in indoor air questionnaires for primary schools.

PubMed

Ung-Lanki, S; Lampi, J; Pekkanen, J

2017-09-01

Questionnaires on symptoms and perceived quality of indoor environment are used to assess indoor environment problems, but mainly among adults. The aim of this article was to explore best ways to analyze and report such symptom data, as part of a project to develop a parent-administered indoor air questionnaire for primary school pupils. Indoor air questionnaire with 25 questions on child's symptoms in the last 4 weeks was sent to parents in five primary schools with indoor air problems and in five control schools. About 83% of parents (N=1470) in case schools and 82% (N=805) in control schools returned the questionnaire. In two schools, 351 (52%) parents answered the questionnaire twice with a 2-week interval. Based on prevalence of symptoms, their test-retest repeatability (ICC), and on principal component analysis (PCA), the number of symptoms was reduced to 17 and six symptoms scores were developed. Six variants of these six symptom scores were then formed and their ability to rank schools compared. Four symptom scores (respiratory, lower respiratory, eye, and general symptoms) analyzed dichotomized maintained sufficiently well the diversity of symptom data and captured the between-school differences in symptom prevalence, when compared to more complex and numerous scores. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

A comparison of medical records and patient questionnaires as sources for the estimation of costs within research studies and the implications for economic evaluation.

PubMed

Gillespie, Paddy; O'Shea, Eamon; Smith, Susan M; Cupples, Margaret E; Murphy, Andrew W

2016-12-01

Data on health care utilization may be collected using a variety of mechanisms within research studies, each of which may have implications for cost and cost effectiveness. The aim of this observational study is to compare data collected from medical records searches and self-report questionnaires for the cost analysis of a cardiac secondary prevention intervention. Secondary data analysis of the Secondary Prevention of Heart Disease in General Practice (SPHERE) randomized controlled trial (RCT). Resource use data for a range of health care services were collected by research nurse searches of medical records and self-report questionnaires and costs of care estimated for each data collection mechanism. A series of statistical analyses were conducted to compare the mean costs for medical records data versus questionnaire data and to conduct incremental analyses for the intervention and control arms in the trial. Data were available to estimate costs for 95% of patients in the intervention and 96% of patients in the control using the medical records data compared to 65% and 66%, respectively, using the questionnaire data. The incremental analysis revealed a statistically significant difference in mean cost of -€796 (95% CI: -1447, -144; P-value: 0.017) for the intervention relative to the control. This compared to no significant difference in mean cost (95% CI: -1446, 860; P-value: 0.619) for the questionnaire analysis. Our findings illustrate the importance of the choice of health care utilization data collection mechanism for the conduct of economic evaluation alongside randomized trials in primary care. This choice will have implications for the costing methodology employed and potentially, for the cost and cost effectiveness outcomes generated. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

78 FR 53014 - Proposed Information Collection (Principles of Excellence Complaint Intake Questionnaire...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-08-27

... DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS [OMB Control No. 2900-NEW] Proposed Information Collection (Principles of Excellence Complaint Intake Questionnaire) Activity; Withdrawal AGENCY: Veterans Benefits... to comment on a proposed information collection titled ``Principles of Excellence Complaint Intake...

[KON-2006--Neurotic Personality Questionnaire].

PubMed

Aleksandrowicz, Jerzy W; Klasa, Katarzyna; Sobański, Jerzy A; Stolarska, Dorota

2007-01-01

Construction of a questionnaire describing personality traits connected to the occurrence and persistence of neurotic disorders. Responses of 794 patients (before treatment) and 520 persons from the control group on items of the constructed personality questionnaire and the symptom checklist "0". Analyses of subscales reliability and item-scale correlations, test-retest and split-half reliability. Factor analyses estimating internal reliability of the questionnaire. Cross-validation with the KO"0". symptom checklist Psychometric properties of KON-2006 questionnaire indicate that it is consistent and reliable enough. Validity analyses indicate a large probability that the X-KON coefficient informs on personality dysfunctions related to neurotic disorders. The Neurotic Personality Questionnaire KON-2006 may serve to estimate personality traits connected to the occurrence and persistence of neurotic disorders as well as changes resulting from psychotherapy.

The impact of a health education program targeting patients with high visit rates in a managed care organization.

PubMed

Dally, Diana L; Dahar, Wendy; Scott, Ann; Roblin, Douglas; Khoury, Allan T

2002-01-01

To determine if a mailed health promotion program reduced outpatient visits while improving health status. Randomized controlled trial. A midsized, group practice model, managed care organization in Ohio. Members invited (N = 3214) were high utilizers, 18 to 64 years old, with hypertension, diabetes, or arthritis (or all). A total of 886 members agreed to participate, and 593 members returned the initial questionnaires. The 593 members were randomized to the following groups: 99 into arthritis treatment and 100 into arthritis control, 94 into blood pressure treatment and 92 into blood pressure control, and 104 into diabetes treatment and 104 into diabetes control. Outpatient utilization, health status, and self-efficacy were followed over 30 months. Health risk appraisal questionnaires were mailed to treatment and control groups before randomization and at 1 year. The treatment group received three additional condition-specific (arthritis, diabetes, or hypertension) questionnaires and a health information handbook. The treatment group also received written health education materials and an individualized feedback letter after each returned questionnaire. The control group received condition-specific written health education materials and reimbursement for exercise equipment or fitness club membership after returning the 1-year end of the study questionnaire. Changes in visit rates were disease specific. Parameter estimates were calculated from a Poisson regression model. For intervention vs. controls, the arthritis group decreased visits 4.84 per 30 months (p < 0.00), the diabetes group had no significant change, and the hypertension group increased visits 2.89 per 30 months (p < 0.05), the overall health status improved significantly (-6.5 vs. 2.3, p < 0.01) for the arthritis group but showed no significant change for the other two groups, and coronary artery disease and cancer risk scores did not change significantly for any group individually. Overall self-efficacy for intervention group completers improved by -8.6 points (p < 0.03) for the arthritis group, and the other groups showed no significant change. This study demonstrated that in a population of 18 to 64 years with chronic conditions, mailed health promotion programs might only benefit people with certain conditions.

Are the results of questionnaires measuring non-cognitive characteristics during the selection procedure for medical school application biased by social desirability?

PubMed Central

Obst, Katrin U.; Brüheim, Linda; Westermann, Jürgen; Katalinic, Alexander; Kötter, Thomas

2016-01-01

Introduction: A stronger consideration of non-cognitive characteristics in Medical School application procedures is desirable. Psychometric tests could be used as an economic supplement to face-to-face interviews which are frequently conducted during university internal procedures for Medical School applications (AdH, Auswahlverfahren der Hochschulen). This study investigates whether the results of psychometric questionnaires measuring non-cognitive characteristics such as personality traits, empathy, and resilience towards stress are vulnerable to distortions of social desirability when used in the context of selection procedures at Medical Schools. Methods: This study took place during the AdH of Lübeck University in August 2015. The following questionnaires have been included: NEO-FFI, SPF, and AVEM. In a 2x1 between-subject experiment we compared the answers from an alleged application condition and a control condition. In the alleged application condition we told applicants that these questionnaires were part of the application procedure. In the control condition applicants were informed about the study prior to completing the questionnaires. Results: All included questionnaires showed differences which can be regarded as social-desirability effects. These differences did not affect the entire scales but, rather, single subscales. Conclusion: These results challenge the informative value of these questionnaires when used for Medical School application procedures. Future studies may investigate the extent to which the differences influence the actual selection of applicants and what implications can be drawn from them for the use of psychometric questionnaires as part of study-place allocation procedures at Medical Schools. PMID:27990471

Are the results of questionnaires measuring non-cognitive characteristics during the selection procedure for medical school application biased by social desirability?

PubMed

Obst, Katrin U; Brüheim, Linda; Westermann, Jürgen; Katalinic, Alexander; Kötter, Thomas

2016-01-01

Introduction: A stronger consideration of non-cognitive characteristics in Medical School application procedures is desirable. Psychometric tests could be used as an economic supplement to face-to-face interviews which are frequently conducted during university internal procedures for Medical School applications (AdH, Auswahlverfahren der Hochschulen). This study investigates whether the results of psychometric questionnaires measuring non-cognitive characteristics such as personality traits, empathy, and resilience towards stress are vulnerable to distortions of social desirability when used in the context of selection procedures at Medical Schools. Methods: This study took place during the AdH of Lübeck University in August 2015. The following questionnaires have been included: NEO-FFI, SPF, and AVEM. In a 2x1 between-subject experiment we compared the answers from an alleged application condition and a control condition. In the alleged application condition we told applicants that these questionnaires were part of the application procedure. In the control condition applicants were informed about the study prior to completing the questionnaires. Results: All included questionnaires showed differences which can be regarded as social-desirability effects. These differences did not affect the entire scales but, rather, single subscales. Conclusion: These results challenge the informative value of these questionnaires when used for Medical School application procedures. Future studies may investigate the extent to which the differences influence the actual selection of applicants and what implications can be drawn from them for the use of psychometric questionnaires as part of study-place allocation procedures at Medical Schools.

Predicting dyslexia at age 11 from a risk index questionnaire at age 5.

PubMed

Helland, Turid; Plante, Elena; Hugdahl, Kenneth

2011-08-01

This study focused on predicting dyslexia in children ahead of formal literacy training. Because dyslexia is a constitutional impairment, risk factors should be seen in preschool. It was hypothesized that data gathered at age 5 using questions targeting the dyslexia endophenotype should be reliable and valid predictors of dyslexia at age 11. A questionnaire was given to caretakers of 120 5-year-old children, and a risk index score was calculated based on questions regarding health, laterality, motor skills, language, special needs education and heredity. An at-risk group (n = 25) and matched controls (n = 24) were followed until age 11, when a similar questionnaire and literacy tests were administered to the children who participated in the follow-up study (22 at risk and 20 control). Half of the at-risk children and two of the control children at age 5 were identified as having dyslexia at age 11 (8 girls and 5 boys). It is concluded that it is possible to identify children at the age of 5 who will have dyslexia at the age of 11 through a questionnaire approach. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Experimental manipulation of psychosocial exposure and questionnaire sensitivity in a simulated manufacturing setting.

PubMed

Ikuma, Laura H; Babski-Reeves, Kari; Nussbaum, Maury A

2009-05-01

The objectives of this study were to determine the efficacy of experimental manipulations of psychosocial exposures and to evaluate the sensitivity of a psychosocial questionnaire by determining the factors perceived. A 50-item questionnaire was developed from the job content questionnaire (JCQ) and the quality of worklife survey (QWL). The experiment involved simulated work at different physical and psychosocial levels. Forty-eight participants were exposed to two levels of one psychosocial manipulation (job control, job demands, social support, or time pressure). Significantly different questionnaire responses supported the effectiveness of psychosocial manipulations. Exploratory factor analysis revealed five factors: skill discretion and decision authority, stress level and supervisor support, physical demands, quality of coworker support, and decision-making support. These results suggest that psychosocial factors can be manipulated experimentally, and that questionnaires can distinguish perceptions of these factors. These questionnaires may be used to assess perceptions of psychosocial factors in experimental settings.

Real-life effectiveness of budesonide/formoterol therapy in asthma: A subanalysis of the SMARTASIA study.

PubMed

Lin, Jiangtao; Tang, Yan; Xiu, Qingyu; Kang, Jian; Cai, Shaoxi; Huang, Kewu; Itoh, Yohji; Ling, Xia; Zhong, Nanshan

2016-01-01

In the Study to Investigate Real Life Effectiveness of Symbicort Maintenance and Reliever Therapy in Asthma Patients Across Asia, the effectiveness of single-inhaler budesonide/formoterol maintenance and reliever therapy was evaluated in patients with poorly controlled asthma. To study the effects of this therapy on a Chinese patient subgroup. In this 12-week, multicenter, open-label therapeutic phase IV study, patients with partially controlled or uncontrolled asthma were switched from their usual asthma treatment to budesonide/formoterol (160/4.5 μg, one inhalation twice daily and as needed) after a 2-week run-in period. Primary and secondary objectives of the study, asthma control and quality of life were assessed by using the five-item Asthma Control Questionnaire and the Standardized Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire. Asthma symptom scores, study medication use, asthma control and/or symptom-free days, and the number of asthma-related nighttime awakenings were also monitored. In total, 478 Chinese patients were enrolled and 407 patients initiated treatment. The patients displayed a significant improvement in mean (standard deviation) five-item Asthma Control Questionnaire (-0.58 ± 0.86; p < 0.0001) and Standardized Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (0.69 ± 0.79; p < 0.0001) scores versus the run-in period. Mean (standard deviation) asthma symptom scores were significantly reduced compared with run-in (-0.30 ± 0.55 daytime, -0.31 ± 0.56 nighttime; p < 0.0001 for both), as was as-needed study medication use (-0.24 ± 1.16 daytime, -0.28 ± 0.97 nighttime; p < 0.0001 for both). Patients who received previous treatment with salmeterol/fluticasone propionate also showed improvement in asthma control. In China, asthma control in Chinese patients whose asthma was not fully controlled with previous standard therapy improved during 12 weeks of treatment with budesonide/formoterol maintenance and reliever therapy. Quality of life was improved, and treatment was well tolerated. (Clinical Trials identifier NCT00939341).

Impact of a health promotion program on employee health risks and work productivity.

PubMed

Mills, Peter R; Kessler, Ronald C; Cooper, John; Sullivan, Sean

2007-01-01

Evaluate the impact of a multicomponent workplace health promotion program on employee health risks and work productivity. Quasi-experimental 12-month before-after intervention-control study. A multinational corporation headquartered in the United Kingdom. Of 618 employees offered the program, 266 (43%) completed questionnaires before and after the program. A total of 1242 of 2500 (49.7%) of a control population also completed questionnaires 12 months apart. A multicomponent health promotion program incorporating a health risk appraisal questionnaire, access to a tailored health improvement web portal, wellness literature, and seminars and workshops focused upon identified wellness issues. Outcomes were (1) cumulative count of health risk factors and the World Health Organization health and work performance questionnaire measures of (2) workplace absenteeism and (3) work performance. After adjusting for baseline differences, improvements in all three outcomes were significantly greater in the intervention group compared with the control group. Mean excess reductions of 0.45 health risk factors and 0.36 monthly absenteeism days and a mean increase of 0.79 on the work performance scale were observed in the intervention group compared with the control group. The intervention yielded a positive return on investment, even using conservative assumptions about effect size estimation. The results suggest that a well-implemented multicomponent workplace health promotion program can produce sizeable changes in health risks and productivity.

Electronic prompts significantly increase response rates to postal questionnaires: a randomized trial within a randomized trial and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Clark, Laura; Ronaldson, Sarah; Dyson, Lisa; Hewitt, Catherine; Torgerson, David; Adamson, Joy

2015-12-01

To assess the effectiveness of sending electronic prompts to randomized controlled trial participants to return study questionnaires. A "trial within a trial" embedded within a study determining the effectiveness of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (DOC) screening on smoking cessation. Those participants taking part in DOC who provided a mobile phone number and/or an electronic mail address were randomized to either receive an electronic prompt or no electronic prompt to return a study questionnaire. The results were combined with two previous studies in a meta-analysis. A total of 437 participants were randomized: 226 to the electronic prompt group and 211 to the control group. A total of 285 (65.2%) participants returned the follow-up questionnaire: 157 (69.5%) in the electronic prompt group and 128 (60.7%) in the control group [difference 8.8%; 95% confidence interval (CI): -0.11%, 17.7%; P = 0.05]. The mean time to response was 23 days in the electronic prompt group and 33 days in the control group (hazard ratio = 1.27; 95% CI: 1.105, 1.47). The meta-analysis of all three studies showed an increase in response rate of 7.1% (95% CI: 0.8%, 13.3%). The use of electronic prompts increased response rates and reduces the time to response. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

77 FR 3236 - Proposed Collection; Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-01-23

...: ``Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) Sure Start Parent Questionnaire,'' OMB CONTROL NUMBER 0704... Collection The Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) Sure Start Parent Questionnaire will be... nutrition, social, and parent involvement services. Close collaboration between families, schools, and the...

75 FR 60433 - Proposed Collection; Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-09-30

... Form, and OMB Number: Personal Information Questionnaire; OMB Control Number 0703-0012. Needs and Uses... Personal Information Questionnaire is used to provide Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps with a standardized... without change, including any personal identifiers or contact information. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT...

Concurrent Performance of Gunner’s and Robotic Operator’s Tasks in a Simulated Mounted Combat System Environment

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-06-01

Appendix A. Demographic Questionnaire 25 Appendix B. Attentional Control Survey 27 Appendix C. NASA - TLX Questionnaire 29 Appendix D. Simulator...the National Aeronautics and Space Administration task load index ( NASA - TLX ) questionnaire (appendix C) (Hart & Staveland, 1988). The NASA - TLX is a...There were 2-minute breaks between experimental sessions. Participants assessed their workload using the NASA - TLX after they completed each

A randomised controlled trial to determine the effect on response of including a lottery incentive in health surveys [ISRCTN32203485

PubMed Central

Roberts, LM; Wilson, S; Roalfe, A; Bridge, P

2004-01-01

Background Postal questionnaires are an economical and simple method of data collection for research purposes but are subject to non-response bias. Several studies have explored the effect of monetary and non-monetary incentives on response. Recent meta-analyses conclude that financial incentives are an effective way of increasing response rates. However, large surveys rarely have the resources to reward individual participants. Three previous papers report on the effectiveness of lottery incentives with contradictory results. This study aimed to determine the effect of including a lottery-style incentive on response rates to a postal health survey. Methods Randomised controlled trial. Setting: North and West Birmingham. 8,645 patients aged 18 or over randomly selected from registers of eight general practices (family physician practices). Intervention: Inclusion of a flyer and letter with a health questionnaire informing patients that returned questionnaires would be entered into a lottery-style draw for £100 of gift vouchers. Control: Health questionnaire accompanied only by standard letter of explanation. Main outcome measures: Response rate and completion rate to questionnaire. Results 5,209 individuals responded with identical rates in both groups (62.1%). Practice, patient age, sex and Townsend score (a postcode based deprivation measure) were identified as predictive of response, with higher response related to older age, being female and living in an area with a lower Townsend score (less deprived). Conclusion This RCT, using a large community based sample, found that the offer of entry into a lottery style draw for £100 of High Street vouchers has no effect on response rates to a postal health questionnaire. PMID:15533256

Reliability and validity of the Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication among Portuguese-speaking Brazilian patients with hypertension.

PubMed

Sauer Liberato, Ana Carolina; Cunha Matheus Rodrigues, Roberta; Kim, MyoungJin; Mallory, Caroline

2016-07-01

This study examined the reliability and validity of the Brazilian Portuguese version of the Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication (version 1.4) among patients with hypertension. Understanding the patient experience with treatment satisfaction will contribute to improved medication adherence and control of hypertension. Hypertension is a serious problem in Brazil that is associated with chronic illness controlled, in part, by consistent adherence to medications. Patient satisfaction with medication treatment is associated with adherence to medication. The Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication (version 1.4) is a promising instrument for measuring medication; however, to date there has been no report of the reliability and validity of the instrument with Portuguese-speaking adults with hypertension in Brazil. Cross-sectional descriptive exploratory study. A convenience sample of 300 patients with hypertension in an outpatient setting in the southeast region of São Paulo state in Brazil completed the Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication (version 1.4). The instrument, comprised of four subscales, was evaluated for reliability using correlation analyses and internal consistency. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to determine factorial validity. Correlational analyses, internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha) and hierarchical confirmatory factor analysis demonstrate adequate support for the four-factor dimensionality, reliability and factorial validity of the Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication (version 1.4). This study provides modest evidence for internal consistency and factorial validity of the Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication (version 1.4) in Portuguese-speaking adult Brazilians with hypertension. Future testing should focus on extending reliability testing, discriminant validity and potential translation and literacy issues in this population. Within known limitations, clinicians will find the Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication (version 1.4) useful for identifying adult Portuguese-speaking Brazilian patients at risk of poor adherence and tailoring adherence interventions to promote hypertension control. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Psychological aspects of adductor spasmodic dysphonia: a prospective population controlled questionnaire study.

PubMed

Kaptein, A A; Hughes, B M; Scharloo, M; Hondebrink, N; Langeveld, T P M

2010-02-01

To examine psychosocial concomitants, illness perceptions, and treatment perceptions in patients with adductor spasmodic dysphonia. Prospective controlled cohort study. A tertiary care facility. Forty-nine out-patients (38 women, 11 men; average age of 52 years) with adductor spasmodic dysphonia completed a battery of reliable and validated psychometric assessment instruments. Control patients' data were derived from scores in questionnaires by samples in the formal Manuals of the questionnaires used. Psychosocial functioning, illness perceptions, and treatment perceptions. Scores on psychosocial measures were elevated in male patients especially, indicating levels of psychological morbidity significantly above those seen in the general population. Assessments of illness perceptions and treatment perceptions indicated that patients perceive that they have a very low degree of control over the disorder, and experience a high emotional impact from it. Voice Handicap Index scores illustrated substantial degrees of perceived handicap. Adductor spasmodic dysphonia is associated with significant negative psychosocial concomitants, coupled with low perceived control over the condition. Future research should elucidate the implications of illness perceptions and treatment perceptions for the biopsychosocial care of persons with adductor spasmodic dysphonia in order to improve self-management and enhance quality of life.

Scope and Limits of an anamnestic questionnaire in a control-induced low-endemicity helminthiasis setting in south-central Côte d'Ivoire.

PubMed

Fürst, Thomas; Ouattara, Mamadou; Silué, Kigbafori D; N'Goran, Dje N; Adiossan, Lukas G; Bogoch, Isaac I; N'Guessan, Yao; Koné, Siaka; Utzinger, Jürg; N'Goran, Eliézer K

2014-01-01

Schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiasis are two high-burden neglected tropical diseases. In highly endemic areas, control efforts emphasize preventive chemotherapy. However, as morbidity, infection, and transmission begin to decrease, more targeted treatment is likely to become more cost-effective, provided that comparatively cheap diagnostic methods with reasonable accuracy are available. Adults were administered an anamnestic questionnaire in mid-2010 during a cross-sectional epidemiological survey in the Taabo health demographic surveillance system in south-central Côte d'Ivoire. Questions pertaining to risk factors and signs and symptoms for schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiasis were included. The individuals' helminth infection status and their belonging to three different anthelmintic treatment groups were compared with the questionnaire results (i) to inform the local health authorities about the epidemiological and clinical footprint of locally prevailing helminthiases, and (ii) to explore the scope and limits of an anamnestic questionnaire as monitoring tool, which eventually could help guiding the control of neglected tropical diseases in control-induced low-endemicity settings. Our study sample consisted of 195 adults (101 males, 94 females). We found prevalences of hookworm, Trichuris trichiura, Schistosoma haematobium, and Schistosoma mansoni of 39.0%, 2.7%, 2.1%, and 2.1%, respectively. No Ascaris lumbricoides infection was found. Helminth infection intensities were generally very low. Seven, 74 and 79 participants belonged to three different treatment groups. Multivariable logistic regression models revealed statistically significant (p<0.05) associations between some risk factors, signs, and symptoms, and the different helminth infections and treatment groups. However, the risk factors, signs, and symptoms showed weak diagnostic properties. The generally low prevalence and intensity of helminth infection in this part of south-central Côte d'Ivoire indicates that recent control efforts have turned our study area into a low endemicity setting. Our anamnestic questionnaire had low sensitivity and specificity to identify infected individuals or treatment groups.

The development of research tools used in the STORK Study (the Scottish Trial of Refer or Keep) to explore midwives' intrapartum decision making.

PubMed

Styles, Maggie; Cheyne, Helen; O'Carroll, Ronan; Greig, Fiona; Dagge-Bell, Fiona; Niven, Catherine

2011-10-01

to develop appropriate tools to assess midwives' attitudes and behaviour in relation to decision making involving risk. a questionnaire and series of vignettes were developed and testes to explore midwives' intrapartum decision making in relation to their attitudes towards risk. An innovative online computer package was developed specifically for use in the STORK Study which enabled the programme to be very tightly controlled with limited functions accessible to participants. a pilot study was conducted with over 50 midwives and nurses to ensure face and content validity of the vignettes and questionnaire. Initially designed to be a paper-based study, rigorous piloting highlighted the many difficulties in presenting it in that particular format. The solution to this problem was to develop the study as a secure online package. online data collection provided the researchers with a greater degree of control of the data collection process, not achievable using traditional paper survey methods. Another example of this control is the immediate entry of data from participants' responses to a background database which automatically stores and backs up data this means that no additional time is required for data entry. The cost of employing an information technology professional was easily offset by the financial savings made through the limited use of stationery and postage. although the development and testing of the research tools for the STORK Study was labour and time intensive, ultimately a questionnaire and vignette package was produced that had been rigorously tested by over 50 midwives and nurses. The researchers are confident in the reliability of the questionnaire and vignettes, as well as the validity of the data collected. The use of an online survey is clearly indicated when the population has readily available internet access, and where controlling the process of data collection is required, as such control cannot be achieved in traditional survey and questionnaire implementation. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Scope and Limits of an Anamnestic Questionnaire in a Control-Induced Low-Endemicity Helminthiasis Setting in South-Central Côte d’Ivoire

PubMed Central

Fürst, Thomas; Ouattara, Mamadou; Silué, Kigbafori D.; N’Goran, Dje N.; Adiossan, Lukas G.; Bogoch, Isaac I.; N’Guessan, Yao; Koné, Siaka; Utzinger, Jürg; N’Goran, Eliézer K.

2013-01-01

Background Schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiasis are two high-burden neglected tropical diseases. In highly endemic areas, control efforts emphasize preventive chemotherapy. However, as morbidity, infection, and transmission begin to decrease, more targeted treatment is likely to become more cost-effective, provided that comparatively cheap diagnostic methods with reasonable accuracy are available. Methodology Adults were administered an anamnestic questionnaire in mid-2010 during a cross-sectional epidemiological survey in the Taabo health demographic surveillance system in south-central Côte d’Ivoire. Questions pertaining to risk factors and signs and symptoms for schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiasis were included. The individuals’ helminth infection status and their belonging to three different anthelmintic treatment groups were compared with the questionnaire results (i) to inform the local health authorities about the epidemiological and clinical footprint of locally prevailing helminthiases, and (ii) to explore the scope and limits of an anamnestic questionnaire as monitoring tool, which eventually could help guiding the control of neglected tropical diseases in control-induced low-endemicity settings. Principal Findings Our study sample consisted of 195 adults (101 males, 94 females). We found prevalences of hookworm, Trichuris trichiura, Schistosoma haematobium, and Schistosoma mansoni of 39.0%, 2.7%, 2.1%, and 2.1%, respectively. No Ascaris lumbricoides infection was found. Helminth infection intensities were generally very low. Seven, 74 and 79 participants belonged to three different treatment groups. Multivariable logistic regression models revealed statistically significant (p<0.05) associations between some risk factors, signs, and symptoms, and the different helminth infections and treatment groups. However, the risk factors, signs, and symptoms showed weak diagnostic properties. Conclusions/Significance The generally low prevalence and intensity of helminth infection in this part of south-central Côte d’Ivoire indicates that recent control efforts have turned our study area into a low endemicity setting. Our anamnestic questionnaire had low sensitivity and specificity to identify infected individuals or treatment groups. PMID:23755120

An randomized controlled trial of Post-it® notes did not increase postal response rates in older depressed participants.

PubMed

Lewis, Helen; Keding, Ada; Bosanquet, Katharine; Gilbody, Simon; Torgerson, David

2017-02-01

Our aim was to evaluate the effectiveness of a Post-it® note to increase response rates and shorten response times to a 4-month postal follow-up questionnaire sent to participants taking part in the Collaborative Care in Screen-Positive Elders (CASPER) trials. Our trial was a two-arm randomized controlled trial comparing response rates to questionnaires with a printed Post-it® note (intervention) and without (control), nested in multi centred randomized controlled trials of older people with varying levels of depressive symptoms; the CASPER + and CASPER Self Help for those At Risk of Depression (SHARD) trials. A total of 611 participants were eligible and randomized. The primary outcome was response rates, secondary outcomes were time to response and need for a reminder. Of 297 participants, 266 (89.6%) returned their 4-month questionnaire in the post-it note arm, compared with 282 of 314 participants (89.8%) in the control arm (OR = 0.97, 95% CI: 0.57, 1.65, P = 0.913). There were no statistically significant differences in time to respond or the need to be sent a reminder. Patients with a major depressive episode were more likely to return questionnaires with post-it notes (P of interaction = .019). There was no significant difference in response rates, time to response, or the need for a reminder between the intervention and control at 4-month follow up for older people with depressive symptoms. However, there was a significant interaction between the Post-it® note group and level of depression. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Fatigue, anxiety and depression overrule the role of oncological treatment in predicting self-reported health complaints in women with breast cancer compared to healthy controls.

PubMed

Hagen, Kari Britt; Aas, Turid; Kvaløy, Jan Terje; Eriksen, Hege R; Søiland, Håvard; Lind, Ragna

2016-08-01

Women with breast cancer often attribute their health problems as side effects caused by oncological treatments. The aim of the study was to examine and compare self-reported health complaints (SHC) in postmenopausal patients with breast cancer to healthy controls. Women with breast cancer (N = 196) filled in 5 questionnaires 1-2 years after surgery; SHC Inventory, Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Endocrine Subscale (FACT-ES), Fatigue - Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Fatigue subscale (FACIT-F), Fatigue Visual Analog Scale (Fatigue VAS), and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Controls comprised 101 blood donors who reported on the questionnaires except for HADS. Bonferroni adjustment and p < 0.0017 was considered statistically significant for SHC Inventory, p < 0.05 for the remaining questionnaires. The patients, mean age 58.0 (SD 9.5), reported significantly more self-reported health complaints, whereof 6 of 29 complaints were significantly elevated compared to the controls, mean age 57.0 (SD 5.8) (p < 0.001). HADS scores in patients fell into normal range, mean 6.3 (SD 5.7). A subgroup of 48 patients experienced more frequent and severe symptoms in all the questionnaires compared to the remaining 148 patients, and the 101 controls. Among the patients, fatigue, anxiety and depression explained 49% of the total variance in self-reported health complaints (p ≤ 0.001). Most women with breast cancer (76%) reported health complaints equal to the healthy controls. Fatigue, anxiety and depression, not oncological treatments, were significant predictors for the complaints. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Impact of variation in materials properties on asphalt pavement life : evaluation of a questionnaire.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1981-05-01

In an effort to collect information on the status of quality control procedures and the use of pay adjustment factors, a questionnaire was distributed to all state agencies, the District of Columbia, and the Federal Highway Administration. Each agenc...

75 FR 29718 - Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-05-27

... Environmental Questionnaire and Checklist. OMB Control Number: 0690-0028. Form Number(s): CD-593. Type of...: 400. Needs and Uses: The Environmental Questionnaire and Checklist is designed to be used by both grants applicants and Federal entities proposing construction or infrastructure projects. The questions...

Development of tools to study personal weight control strategies: OxFAB taxonomy

PubMed Central

Aveyard, Paul; Koshiaris, Constantinos; Jebb, Susan A.

2016-01-01

Objective To describe the development of the Oxford Food and Activity Behaviors (OxFAB) taxonomy and questionnaire to explore the cognitive and behavioral strategies used by individuals during weight management attempts. Methods The taxonomy was constructed through a qualitative analysis of existing resources and a review of existing behavior change taxonomies and theories. The taxonomy was translated into a questionnaire to identify strategies used by individuals. Think‐aloud interviews were conducted to test the face/concept validity of the questionnaire, and test–retest reliability was assessed in a sample of 138 participants. Results The OxFAB taxonomy consists of 117 strategies grouped into 23 domains. Compared to taxonomies used to describe interventions, around half of the domains and strategies identified are unique to the OxFAB taxonomy. The OxFAB questionnaire consists of 117 questions, one for each strategy from the taxonomy. Test–retest resulted in a mean PABAK score of 0.61 (SD 0.15). Questions were revised where appropriate. Conclusions The OxFAB taxonomy and questionnaire provide a conceptual framework to identify the cognitive and behavioral strategies used by individuals during attempts at weight control. PMID:26748902

Development of tools to study personal weight control strategies: OxFAB taxonomy.

PubMed

Hartmann-Boyce, Jamie; Aveyard, Paul; Koshiaris, Constantinos; Jebb, Susan A

2016-02-01

To describe the development of the Oxford Food and Activity Behaviors (OxFAB) taxonomy and questionnaire to explore the cognitive and behavioral strategies used by individuals during weight management attempts. The taxonomy was constructed through a qualitative analysis of existing resources and a review of existing behavior change taxonomies and theories. The taxonomy was translated into a questionnaire to identify strategies used by individuals. Think-aloud interviews were conducted to test the face/concept validity of the questionnaire, and test-retest reliability was assessed in a sample of 138 participants. The OxFAB taxonomy consists of 117 strategies grouped into 23 domains. Compared to taxonomies used to describe interventions, around half of the domains and strategies identified are unique to the OxFAB taxonomy. The OxFAB questionnaire consists of 117 questions, one for each strategy from the taxonomy. Test-retest resulted in a mean PABAK score of 0.61 (SD 0.15). Questions were revised where appropriate. The OxFAB taxonomy and questionnaire provide a conceptual framework to identify the cognitive and behavioral strategies used by individuals during attempts at weight control. © 2016 The Authors. Obesity published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of The Obesity Society (TOS).

Systematic review of the cost-effectiveness of sample size maintenance programs in studies involving postal questionnaires reveals insufficient economic information.

PubMed

David, Michael C; Bensink, Mark; Higashi, Hideki; Boyd, Roslyn; Williams, Lesley; Ware, Robert S

2012-10-01

To identify and assess the existing cost-effectiveness evidence for sample size maintenance programs. Articles were identified by searching Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials Embase, CINAHL, PubMed, and Web of Science from 1966 to July 2011. Randomized controlled trials in which investigators evaluated program cost-effectiveness in postal questionnaires were eligible for inclusion. Fourteen studies from 13 articles, with 11,165 participants met the inclusion criteria. Thirty-one distinct programs were identified; each incorporated at least one strategy (reminders, incentives, modified questionnaires, or types of postage) aimed at minimizing attrition. Reminders, in the form of replacement questionnaires and cards, were the most commonly used strategies, with 15 and 11 studies reporting their usage, respectively. All strategies improved response, with financial incentives being the most costly. Heterogeneity between studies was too great to allow for meta-analysis of the results. The implementation of strategies such as no-obligation incentives, modified questionnaires, and personalized reply paid postage improved program cost-effectiveness. Analyses of attrition minimization programs need to consider both cost and effect in their evaluation. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Impact of community pharmacists' interventions on asthma self-management care.

PubMed

Kovačević, Milena; Ćulafić, Milica; Jovanović, Marija; Vučićević, Katarina; Kovačević, Sandra Vezmar; Miljković, Branislava

2018-06-01

Asthma self-management is aimed to improve the quality and effectiveness of asthma care by supporting the patients to manage their illness by themselves. The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of pharmacist-delivered counselling on patients knowledge and beliefs about the medicines, adherence level, and asthma control. A prospective intervention study was conducted in community pharmacies. A total of 90 patients completed the study. Four questionnaires were used: (1) Beliefs about medicines questionnaire (BMQ), (2) Knowledge of asthma and asthma medicine (KAM), (3) Asthma control test (ACT), and (4) 8-item Morisky medication adherence scale questionnaire (MMAS-8). Questionnaires were completed at baseline and 3 months later. Low level of adherence and poor asthma control were determined initially. Better asthma control was significantly associated with higher adherence level, lower concerns regarding the medication use, and knowledge of triggers. Statistically significant improvement was found after 3 months in patients knowledge of asthma and its medications, their attitude towards medications (decrease in harm, overuse and concern; increase in necessity score), asthma control score (increased from 19 to 20, p < 0.05) and level of adherence (MMAS-8 score decreased from 3 to 2 p < 0.05). Better asthma control was achieved in 60% of patients. Sixteen patients (18%) were transferred from poor to well-controlled asthma, implying no need for patients' referral to the doctor and no additional cost for the health system. Improved disease control could be a result of enhanced knowledge and understanding of the disease-medication relationship, improved inhalation technique, and support on patients' adherence. Acquired knowledge and skills, as well as improved attitude, empowered patients to take a more active part in asthma management. Education in further patients' follow-up should consider topics tailored to the patients' characteristics, needs, and prior counselling schedule with issues discussed. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Sleep disturbances in juvenile myoclonic epilepsy: a sleep questionnaire-based study.

PubMed

Krishnan, Pramod; Sinha, Sanjib; Taly, Arun B; Ramachandraiah, Chaitra T; Rao, Shivaji; Satishchandra, Parthasarathy

2012-03-01

Sleep and epilepsy share a complex pathophysiological association. Juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME) is a common sleep-sensitive epilepsy in which the effect of seizures could have therapeutic implications in terms of sleep disturbances and seizure control. This study aimed to analyze the effect of epilepsy on sleep in patients with JME. Fifty patients on valproic acid (VPA) monotherapy, and age- and gender-matched controls were recruited into this prospective, hospital-based, case-control study after informed consent and screening for inclusion criteria. They underwent a detailed clinical assessment, electroencephalogram (EEG) and neuroimaging, and were administered validated sleep questionnaires, which included the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and NIMHANS Sleep Disorders Questionnaire. The patient and control groups had identical numbers of males and females (M: F=22: 28), without any significant difference in the age and body mass index (BMI). The clinical profile of JME was similar to published literature while the prevalence of EEG abnormalities was less compared to similar studies. The mean ESS and PSQI scores and the number of subjects with abnormal scores on one or both questionnaires were significantly more in patients. Patients had a higher prevalence of sleep disturbances, insomnia and excessive daytime somnolence. No significant seizure- or treatment-related factors influencing sleep could be identified. This study, the first of its kind, revealed that patients with JME have significant sleep disturbances characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and disturbed night sleep, despite adequate medications and good seizure control. The role of VPA in the genesis of these symptoms needs clarification. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Psychological predictors for health-related quality of life and disability in persons with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

PubMed

Mewes, Ricarda; Rief, Winfried; Kenn, Klaus; Ried, Jens; Stenzel, Nikola

2016-01-01

Individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exhibit low physical and mental health-related quality of life (HRQL) and high susceptibility to disability. We investigated the influence of psychological factors on HRQL and disability in COPD individuals recruited from the general population. In line with Leventhal's common sense model, we expected psychological factors to be associated with HRQL and disability even after controlling for medical status. Individuals with COPD (n = 502; 59.7 years old; GOLD grades were I: 3%, II: 17%, III: 34%, IV: 46%) were assessed through an online survey administered via COPD patient organisations in Germany. Individuals filled in the Short Form Health Survey (SF-12), COPD Assessment Test, Patient Health Questionnaire (modules: GAD-2, PHQ-15, PHQ-9), Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire, a questionnaire that assesses causal illness attributions, and the internal illness-related locus of control scale of the 'KKG questionnaire for the assessment of control beliefs about illness and health'. Multiple linear regressions were calculated. The investigated factors explained high variances (disability = 56%, physical HRQL = 28%, mental HRQL = 63%, p ≤ .001). Better mental health, more optimistic illness perceptions, attribution to psychological causes, and stronger internal locus of control were associated with lower disability and better HRQL. Comorbid somatic symptoms contributed to high disability and low quality of life. Psychological factors, such as illness perception, attribution and internal locus of control, were associated with disability and HRQL. These factors should be considered when designing treatments for individuals with COPD, and adequate interventions should be provided to enhance illness understanding and self-management skills.

Utility of the Croatian translation of the community integration questionnaire-revised in a sample of adults with moderate to severe traumatic brain injury.

PubMed

Tršinski, Dubravko; Tadinac, Meri; Bakran, Žarko; Klepo, Ivana

2018-02-23

To examine the utility of the Community Integration Questionnaire-Revised, translated into Croatian, in a sample of adults with moderate to severe traumatic brain injury. The Community Integration Questionnaire-Revised was administered to a sample of 88 adults with traumatic brain injury and to a control sample matched by gender, age and education. Participants with traumatic brain injury were divided into four subgroups according to injury severity. The internal consistency of the Community Integration Questionnaire-Revised was satisfactory. The differences between the group with traumatic brain injury and the control group were statistically significant for the overall Community Integration Questionnaire-Revised score, as well as for all the subscales apart from the Home Integration subscale. The community Integration Questionnaire-Revised score varied significantly for subgroups with different severity of traumatic brain injury. The results show that the Croatian translation of the Community Integration Questionnaire-Revised is useful in assessing participation in adults with traumatic brain injury and confirm previous findings that severity of injury predicts community integration. Results of the new Electronic Social Networking scale indicate that persons who are more active on electronic social networks report better results for other domains of community integration, especially social activities. Implications for rehabilitation The Croatian translation of the Community Integration Questionnaire-Revised is a valid tool for long-term assessment of participation in various domains in persons with moderate to severe traumatic brain injury Persons with traumatic brain injury who are more active in the use of electronic social networking are also more integrated into social and productivity domains. Targeted training in the use of new technologies could enhance participation after traumatic brain injury.

Benefits and risks of emerging technologies: integrating life cycle assessment and decision analysis to assess lumber treatment alternatives.

PubMed

Tsang, Michael P; Bates, Matthew E; Madison, Marcus; Linkov, Igor

2014-10-07

Assessing the best options among emerging technologies (e.g., new chemicals, nanotechnologies) is complicated because of trade-offs across benefits and risks that are difficult to quantify given limited and fragmented availability of information. This study demonstrates the integration of multicriteria decision analysis (MCDA) and life cycle assessment (LCA) to address technology alternative selection decisions. As a case study, prioritization of six lumber treatment alternatives [micronized copper quaternary (MCQ); alkaline copper quaternary (ACQ); water-borne copper naphthenate (CN); oil-borne copper naphthenate (CNo); water-borne copper quinolate (CQ); and water-borne zinc naphthenate (ZN)] for military use are considered. Multiattribute value theory (MAVT) is used to derive risk and benefit scores. Risk scores are calculated using a cradle-to-gate LCA. Benefit scores are calculated by scoring of cost, durability, and corrosiveness criteria. Three weighting schemes are used, representing Environmental, Military and Balanced stakeholder perspectives. Aggregated scores from all three perspectives show CQ to be the least favorable alterative. MCQ is identified as the most favorable alternative from the Environmental stakeholder perspective. From the Military stakeholder perspective, ZN is determined to be the most favorable alternative, followed closely by MCQ. This type of scoring and ranking of multiple heterogeneous criteria in a systematic and transparent way facilitates better justification of technology selection and regulation.

Contraindications for superficial heat and therapeutic ultrasound: do sources agree?

PubMed

Batavia, Mitchell

2004-06-01

To determine the amount of agreement among general rehabilitation sources for both superficial heating and therapeutic ultrasound contraindications. English-language textbook and peer-reviewed journal sources, from January 1992 to July 2002. Searches of computerized databases (HealthSTAR, CINAHL, MEDLINE, Embase) as well as Library of Congress Online Catalogs, Books in Print, and AcqWeb's Directory of Publishers and Venders. Sources were excluded if they (1) were published before 1992, (2) failed to address general rehabilitation audiences, or (3) were identified as a researcher's related publication with similar information on the topic. Type and number of contraindications, type of audience, year of publication, number of references, rationales, and alternative treatment strategies. Eighteen superficial heat and 20 ultrasound sources identified anywhere from 5 to 22 and 9 to 36 contraindications/precautions, respectively. Agreement among sources was generally high but ranged from 11% to 95%, with lower agreement noted for pregnancy, metal implants, edema, skin integrity, and cognitive/communicative concerns. Seventy-two percent of superficial heat sources and 25% of ultrasound sources failed to reference at least 1 contraindication claim. Agreement among contraindication sources was generally good for both superficial heat and therapeutic ultrasound. Sources varied with regard to the number of contraindications, references, and rationales cited. Greater reliance on objective data and standardized classification systems may serve to develop more uniform guidelines for superficial heat and therapeutic ultrasound.

Comparison of Internet-based and paper-based questionnaires in Taiwan using multisample invariance approach.

PubMed

Yu, Sen-Chi; Yu, Min-Ning

2007-08-01

This study examines whether the Internet-based questionnaire is psychometrically equivalent to the paper-based questionnaire. A random sample of 2,400 teachers in Taiwan was divided into experimental and control groups. The experimental group was invited to complete the electronic form of the Chinese version of Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) placed on the Internet, whereas the control group was invited to complete the paper-based CES-D, which they received by mail. The multisample invariance approach, derived from structural equation modeling (SEM), was applied to analyze the collected data. The analytical results show that the two groups have equivalent factor structures in the CES-D. That is, the items in CES-D function equivalently in the two groups. Then the equality of latent mean test was performed. The latent means of "depressed mood," "positive affect," and "interpersonal problems" in CES-D are not significantly different between these two groups. However, the difference in the "somatic symptoms" latent means between these two groups is statistically significant at alpha = 0.01. But the Cohen's d statistics indicates that such differences in latent means do not apparently lead to a meaningful effect size in practice. Both CES-D questionnaires exhibit equal validity, reliability, and factor structures and exhibit a little difference in latent means. Therefore, the Internet-based questionnaire represents a promising alternative to the paper-based questionnaire.

Pain Coping Strategies in Osteoarthritis Patients.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Keefe, Francis J.; And Others

1987-01-01

Investigated the relation of pain coping strategies to pain, health status, and psychological distress in a group of osteoarthritis patients with chronic pain. Patients completed various questionnaires. Medical status variables were also used. The Pain Control and Rational Thinking factor derived from the Coping Strategies Questionnaire proved to…

76 FR 71568 - Agency Information Collection Activities: Proposed Collection; Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-11-18

... control number); Title of Information Collection: Nursing Home Quality Improvement Questionnaire; Use: The information obtained via the Nursing Home Quality Improvement Questionnaire will be utilized by CMS staff in... and performance improvement (QAPI) technical assistance (TA) that will be useful to nursing facilities...

Current status of Marek's disease in the united states and worldwide

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

A questionnaire was widely distributed in 2011 to estimate the global prevalence of Marek’s disease and gain a better understanding of current control strategies and future concerns. A total of 104 questionnaires were returned representing 108 countries from sources including national branch secret...

Evaluating a community-based early childhood education and development program in Indonesia: study protocol for a pragmatic cluster randomized controlled trial with supplementary matched control group

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background This paper presents the study protocol for a pragmatic cluster randomized controlled trial (RCT) with a supplementary matched control group. The aim of the trial is to evaluate a community-based early education and development program launched by the Government of Indonesia. The program was developed in collaboration with the World Bank with a total budget of US$127.7 million, and targets an estimated 738,000 children aged 0 to 6 years living in approximately 6,000 poor communities. The aim of the program is to increase access to early childhood services with the secondary aim of improving school readiness. Methods/Design The study is being conducted across nine districts. The baseline survey contained 310 villages, of which 100 were originally allocated to the intervention arm, 20 originally allocated to a 9-month delay staggered start, 100 originally allocated to an 18-month delay staggered start and 90 allocated to a matched control group (no intervention). The study consists of two cohorts, one comprising children aged 12 to 23 months and the other comprising children aged 48 to 59 months at baseline. The data collection instruments include child observations and task/game-based assessments as well as a questionnaire suite, village head questionnaire, service level questionnaires, household questionnaire, and child caretaker questionnaire. The baseline survey was conducted from March to April 2009, midline was conducted from April to August 2010 and endline conducted early 2013. The resultant participation rates at both the district and village levels were 90%. At the child level, the participation rate was 99.92%. The retention rate at the child level at midline was 99.67%. Discussion This protocol paper provides a detailed record of the trial design including a discussion regarding difficulties faced with compliance to the randomization, compliance to the dispersion schedule of community block grants, and procurement delays for baseline and midline data collections. Considering the execution of the program and the resultant threats to the study, we discuss our analytical plan and intentions for endline data collection. Trials registration Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN76061874 PMID:23953975

Evaluating a community-based early childhood education and development program in Indonesia: study protocol for a pragmatic cluster randomized controlled trial with supplementary matched control group.

PubMed

Pradhan, Menno; Brinkman, Sally A; Beatty, Amanda; Maika, Amelia; Satriawan, Elan; de Ree, Joppe; Hasan, Amer

2013-08-16

This paper presents the study protocol for a pragmatic cluster randomized controlled trial (RCT) with a supplementary matched control group. The aim of the trial is to evaluate a community-based early education and development program launched by the Government of Indonesia. The program was developed in collaboration with the World Bank with a total budget of US$127.7 million, and targets an estimated 738,000 children aged 0 to 6 years living in approximately 6,000 poor communities. The aim of the program is to increase access to early childhood services with the secondary aim of improving school readiness. The study is being conducted across nine districts. The baseline survey contained 310 villages, of which 100 were originally allocated to the intervention arm, 20 originally allocated to a 9-month delay staggered start, 100 originally allocated to an 18-month delay staggered start and 90 allocated to a matched control group (no intervention). The study consists of two cohorts, one comprising children aged 12 to 23 months and the other comprising children aged 48 to 59 months at baseline. The data collection instruments include child observations and task/game-based assessments as well as a questionnaire suite, village head questionnaire, service level questionnaires, household questionnaire, and child caretaker questionnaire. The baseline survey was conducted from March to April 2009, midline was conducted from April to August 2010 and endline conducted early 2013. The resultant participation rates at both the district and village levels were 90%. At the child level, the participation rate was 99.92%. The retention rate at the child level at midline was 99.67%. This protocol paper provides a detailed record of the trial design including a discussion regarding difficulties faced with compliance to the randomization, compliance to the dispersion schedule of community block grants, and procurement delays for baseline and midline data collections. Considering the execution of the program and the resultant threats to the study, we discuss our analytical plan and intentions for endline data collection. Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN76061874.

Tridimensional personality questionnaire: assessment in patients with social phobia and a control group.

PubMed

Kim, S W; Hoover, K M

1996-02-01

We administered the Tridimensional Personality Questionnaire to 40 control subjects and to 47 social phobia patients who met Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-III-R (SCID) criteria for social phobia and participated in a multicenter treatment study. Multiple comparisons with Bonferroni correction showed a significant increase in total Harm Avoidance scale scores and all four subscale scores for the social phobia group. On a Reward Dependence subscale that measures persistence versus irresoluteness the mean was significantly lower in the social phobia group than the control group. Present findings extend an earlier report of increased Harm Avoidance in major depressive disorder and other clinical diagnostic groups.

Residents’ Waste Separation Behaviors at the Source: Using SEM with the Theory of Planned Behavior in Guangzhou, China

PubMed Central

Zhang, Dongliang; Huang, Guangqing; Yin, Xiaoling; Gong, Qinghua

2015-01-01

Understanding the factors that affect residents’ waste separation behaviors helps in constructing effective environmental campaigns for a community. Using the theory of planned behavior (TPB), this study examines factors associated with waste separation behaviors by analyzing responses to questionnaires distributed in Guangzhou, China. Data drawn from 208 of 1000-field questionnaires were used to assess socio-demographic factors and the TPB constructs (i.e., attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, intentions, and situational factors). The questionnaire data revealed that attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, intentions, and situational factors significantly predicted household waste behaviors in Guangzhou, China. Through a structural equation modeling analysis, we concluded that campaigns targeting moral obligations may be particularly effective for increasing the participation rate in waste separation behaviors. PMID:26274969

Development, factor structure and application of the Dog Obesity Risk and Appetite (DORA) questionnaire

PubMed Central

Smith, Stephen P.; O’Rahilly, Stephen; Wardle, Jane

2015-01-01

Background. Dogs are compelling models in which to study obesity since the condition shares many characteristics between humans and dogs. Differences in eating behaviour are recognised to contribute to obesity susceptibility in other species but this has not been systematically studied in dogs. Aim. To develop and validate an owner-reported measure of canine eating behaviour and owner or dog related factors which can alter the development of obesity. Further, to then test variation in food-motivation in dogs and its association with obesity and owner management. Methods. Owner interviews, a literature review and existing human appetite scales were used to identify relevant topics and generate items for the questionnaire. Following a pilot phase, a 75 item online questionnaire was distributed via social media. Responses from 302 dog/owner dyads were analysed and factor structure and descriptive statistics calculated. Results were compared with descriptions of dog behaviour and management from a subset of respondents during semi-structured interviews. The optimum questions were disseminated as a 34 item final questionnaire completed by 213 owners, with a subset of respondents repeating the questionnaire 3 weeks later to assess test–retest reliability. Results. Analysis of responses to the final questionnaire relating to 213 dog/owner dyads showed a coherent factor structure and good test–retest reliability. There were three dog factors (food responsiveness and satiety, lack of selectivity, Interest in food), four owner factors (owner motivation to control dog weight, owner intervention to control dog weight, restriction of human food, exercise taken) and two dog health factors (signs of gastrointestinal disease, current poor health). Eating behaviour differed between individuals and between breed groups. High scores on dog factors (high food-motivation) and low scores on owner factors (less rigorous control of diet/exercise) were associated with obesity. Owners of more highly food-motivated dogs exerted more control over their dogs’ food intake than those of less food-motivated dogs. Conclusions. The DORA questionnaire is a reliable and informative owner-reported measure of canine eating behaviour and health and management factors which can be associated with obesity development. The tool will be applicable to study of the canine obesity model and to clinical veterinarians. Results revealed eating behaviour to be similarly associated with obesity as exercise and owners giving titbits. PMID:26468435

Development, factor structure and application of the Dog Obesity Risk and Appetite (DORA) questionnaire.

PubMed

Raffan, Eleanor; Smith, Stephen P; O'Rahilly, Stephen; Wardle, Jane

2015-01-01

Background. Dogs are compelling models in which to study obesity since the condition shares many characteristics between humans and dogs. Differences in eating behaviour are recognised to contribute to obesity susceptibility in other species but this has not been systematically studied in dogs. Aim. To develop and validate an owner-reported measure of canine eating behaviour and owner or dog related factors which can alter the development of obesity. Further, to then test variation in food-motivation in dogs and its association with obesity and owner management. Methods. Owner interviews, a literature review and existing human appetite scales were used to identify relevant topics and generate items for the questionnaire. Following a pilot phase, a 75 item online questionnaire was distributed via social media. Responses from 302 dog/owner dyads were analysed and factor structure and descriptive statistics calculated. Results were compared with descriptions of dog behaviour and management from a subset of respondents during semi-structured interviews. The optimum questions were disseminated as a 34 item final questionnaire completed by 213 owners, with a subset of respondents repeating the questionnaire 3 weeks later to assess test-retest reliability. Results. Analysis of responses to the final questionnaire relating to 213 dog/owner dyads showed a coherent factor structure and good test-retest reliability. There were three dog factors (food responsiveness and satiety, lack of selectivity, Interest in food), four owner factors (owner motivation to control dog weight, owner intervention to control dog weight, restriction of human food, exercise taken) and two dog health factors (signs of gastrointestinal disease, current poor health). Eating behaviour differed between individuals and between breed groups. High scores on dog factors (high food-motivation) and low scores on owner factors (less rigorous control of diet/exercise) were associated with obesity. Owners of more highly food-motivated dogs exerted more control over their dogs' food intake than those of less food-motivated dogs. Conclusions. The DORA questionnaire is a reliable and informative owner-reported measure of canine eating behaviour and health and management factors which can be associated with obesity development. The tool will be applicable to study of the canine obesity model and to clinical veterinarians. Results revealed eating behaviour to be similarly associated with obesity as exercise and owners giving titbits.

A body image and disordered eating intervention for women in midlife: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

McLean, Siân A; Paxton, Susan J; Wertheim, Eleanor H

2011-12-01

This study examined the outcome of a body image and disordered eating intervention for midlife women. The intervention was specifically designed to address risk factors that are pertinent in midlife. Participants were 61 women aged 30 to 60 years (M = 43.92, SD = 8.22) randomly assigned to intervention (n = 32) or (delayed treatment) control (n = 29) groups. Following an 8-session facilitated group cognitive behavioral therapy-based intervention, outcomes from the Body Shape Questionnaire; Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire; Body Image Avoidance Questionnaire; Physical Appearance Comparison Scale; Sociocultural Attitudes Towards Appearance Scale, Internalization subscale; measures of appearance importance, cognitive reappraisal, and self-care; Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire; and Kessler Psychological Distress Scale were compared for statistical and clinical significance from baseline to posttest and 6-month follow-up. Following the intent-to-treat principle, mixed-model analyses with a mixed within-between design demonstrated that the intervention group had large improvements that were statistically significantly different from the control group in body image, disordered eating, and risk factor variables and that were maintained at 6-month follow-up. Furthermore, the improvements were also of clinical importance. This study provides support for the efficacy of an intervention to reduce body image and eating concerns in midlife women. Further research into interventions tailored for this population is warranted.

[Psychological distress and personality characteristics among individuals with primary exercise dependence].

PubMed

Guidi, Jenni; Clementi, Cecilia; Grandi, Silvana

2013-01-01

The aim of this study was to assess both psychological distress and personality characteristics associat with primary exercise dependence. A cross-sectional study was carried out with adult habitual physical exercisers. A total of 79 participants voluntarily completed a package of self-report questionnaires including the Exercise Dependence Questionnaire (EDQ), the Eating Disorder Inventory II (EDI-2), the Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI), the Attitude Toward Self scale (ATS), Muscle Dysmorphia Questionnaire (MDQ), and the Symptom Questionnaire (SQ). Significant differences were found in the EDQ exercise for weight control subscale with regard to gender, as well as in the EDI-2 total score and 5 of its subscales, with higher scores for females compared to males. Participants reporting primary exercise dependence (n=32) were more likely to present with disordered eating patterns than controls (n=47). They also showed higher levels of harm avoidance and persistence on the TCI, as well as lower self-directness. Furthermore, primary exercise dependents scored higher on the ATS dysmorphophobia subscale, as well as on the MDQ total score and the anxiety and hostility subscales of the SQ compared to controls. These findings highlight the importance of performing a clinical assessment of psychological symptoms and personality characteristics that might be associated with primary exercise dependence.

Factors associated with poor control of 9/11-related asthma 10–11 years after the 2001 World Trade Center terrorist attacks

PubMed Central

Jordan, Hannah T.; Stellman, Steven D.; Reibman, Joan; Farfel, Mark R.; Brackbill, Robert M.; Friedman, Stephen M.; Li, Jiehui; Cone, James E.

2015-01-01

Abstract Objective: To identify key factors associated with poor asthma control among adults in the World Trade Center (WTC) Health Registry, a longitudinal study of rescue/recovery workers and community members who were directly exposed to the 2001 WTC terrorist attacks and their aftermath. Methods: We studied incident asthma diagnosed by a physician from 12 September 2001 through 31 December 2003 among participants aged ≥18 on 11 September 2001, as reported on an enrollment (2003–2004) or follow-up questionnaire. Based on modified National Asthma Education and Prevention Program criteria, asthma was considered controlled, poorly-controlled, or very poorly-controlled at the time of a 2011–2012 follow-up questionnaire. Probable post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and generalized anxiety disorder were defined using validated scales. Self-reported gastroesophageal reflux symptoms (GERS) and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) were obtained from questionnaire responses. Multinomial logistic regression was used to examine factors associated with poor or very poor asthma control. Results: Among 2445 participants, 33.7% had poorly-controlled symptoms and 34.6% had very poorly-controlled symptoms in 2011–2012. Accounting for factors including age, education, body mass index, and smoking, there was a dose–response relationship between the number of mental health conditions and poorer asthma control. Participants with three mental health conditions had five times the odds of poor control and 13 times the odds of very poor control compared to participants without mental health comorbidities. GERS and OSA were significantly associated with poor or very poor control. Conclusions: Rates of poor asthma control were very high in this group with post-9/11 diagnosed asthma. Comprehensive care of 9/11-related asthma should include management of mental and physical health comorbidities. PMID:25539137

Longitudinal Validation of the Spanish Version of the Health-Related Quality of Life Questionnaire for Hymenoptera Venom Allergy (HRQLHA).

PubMed

Alfaya, T; Vega, A; Domínguez-Noche, C; Ruiz, B; Marqués, L; Sánchez-Morillas, L

2015-01-01

The Spanish version of the health-related quality of life questionnaire for allergy to hymenoptera venom (HRQLHA) has been shown to be reliable, internally consistent, and externally valid. The aim of this study was to complete the validation of the HRQLHA by analyzing its sensitivity to changes (longitudinal validity) using the sting challenge test (SCT) as the variable of change. Patients over the age of 17 years with a systemic allergic reaction to Apis, Vespula, or Polistes venom were included during their first year of venom-specific immunotherapy. Patients were assigned to either a group that underwent the SCT or a control group that did not. All patients completed the HRQLHA at baseline and after a period of 2 to 4 months, during which time the SCT was performed in the active group, with no intervention in the control group. Fifty patients were included in the study: 25 in the SCT group and 25 in the control group. The patients in the SCT group showed a significant improvement in mean HRQLHA score (+0.35, P=.03) after the SCT, while those in the control group showed no significant changes in questionnaire scores. Our results demonstrate the sensitivity of the HRQLHA to changes and thus complete the longitudinal validation of the questionnaire. A well-tolerated SCT improves the quality of life of venom-allergic patients as it reduces anxiety associated with the fear of being stung.

78 FR 33894 - Proposed Information Collection (Open Burn Pit Registry Airborne Hazard Self-Assessment...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-06-05

... Burn Pit Registry Airborne Hazard Self-Assessment Questionnaire) Activity: Comment Request AGENCY... ascertain and monitor the health effects of the exposure of members of the Armed Forces to toxic airborne... to ``OMB Control No. 2900-NEW, Open Burn Pit Registry Airborne Hazard Self-Assessment Questionnaire...

Children's Beliefs toward Cooperative Playing with Peers with Disabilities in Physical Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Obrusnikova, Iva; Block, Martin E.; Dillon, Suzanna

2010-01-01

Theory of Planned Behavior (Ajzen, 1991) was used to elicit salient behavioral, normative, and control beliefs of children without disabilities toward playing with a hypothetical peer with a disability in general physical education. Participants were 350 elementary and middle school students who completed two questionnaires. Questionnaires were…

Changing Autoerotic Attitudes and Practices among College Females: A Two-Year Follow-Up Study.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Davidson, J. Kenneth, Sr.; Darling, Carol A.

1988-01-01

Examined effects of functional marriage and family course on female undergraduates' masturbatory attitudes and behaviors. Subjects completed questionnaires during course and two years later. Control group also completed questionnaires. Course respondents became substantially more accepting of masturbation by acquaintances and were more likely to…

Associations between Perceived Teaching Behaviours and Affect in Upper Elementary School Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Barnard, Allison D.; Adelson, Jill L.; Pössel, Patrick

2017-01-01

We explored the associations between student-perceived teaching behaviours and negative affect (NA) and positive affect (PA) in upper elementary age students, both before and after controlling for perceived parenting behaviours. The Teaching Behaviour Questionnaire, the Alabama Parenting Questionnaire, and the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule…

77 FR 44670 - Information Collection Activities: National Historic Landmarks (NHL) Condition Survey

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-07-30

... information regarding the condition of designated landmarks. A questionnaire will be designed and used to... the design of the questionnaire that is the subject of this request. II. Data OMB Control Number: 1024... address, phone number, email address, or other personal identifying information in your comment, you...

77 FR 2054 - Proposed Agency Information Collection

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-01-13

... Consumption Data Access and Control Questionnaire; (3) Type of Request: New; (4) Purpose: The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) will generate a ``crowd-sourced map'' that discloses consumer access to personal... questionnaire device that captures and publishes the necessary information as a series of web-based maps upon...

The Motherhood Inventory: A Questionnaire for Studying Attitudes Toward Motherhood.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hare-Mustin, Rachel T.; Broderick, Patricia C.

The Motherhood Inventory (MI) is a 40-item questionnaire developed to study attitudes toward motherhood and the motherhood myth. It includes items related to the control of reproduction, abortion, adoption, single motherhood, male-female relationships, and idealized and punitive attitudes toward mothers. The MI was investigated using 301 subjects…

Examining Contexts-of-Use for Web-Based and Paper-Based Questionnaires

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hardre, Patricia L.; Crowson, H. Michael; Xie, Kui

2012-01-01

Questionnaire instruments are frequently administered in digital formats, largely web-based, without much systematic investigation of possible effects from these administration methods. Furthermore, little attention has been given to the contextual lack of control for extraneous factors that may influence user responses. In this study, 263…

Development and validity of a questionnaire to test the knowledge of primary care personnel regarding nutrition in obese adolescents.

PubMed

de Pinho, Lucinéia; Moura, Paulo Henrique Tolentino; Silveira, Marise Fagundes; de Botelho, Ana Cristina Carvalho; Caldeira, Antônio Prates

2013-07-18

In light of its epidemic proportions in developed and developing countries, obesity is considered a serious public health issue. In order to increase knowledge concerning the ability of health care professionals in caring for obese adolescents and adopt more efficient preventive and control measures, a questionnaire was developed and validated to assess non-dietitian health professionals regarding their Knowledge of Nutrition in Obese Adolescents (KNOA). The development and evaluation of a questionnaire to assess the knowledge of primary care practitioners with respect to nutrition in obese adolescents was carried out in five phases, as follows: 1) definition of study dimensions 2) development of 42 questions and preliminary evaluation of the questionnaire by a panel of experts; 3) characterization and selection of primary care practitioners (35 dietitians and 265 non-dietitians) and measurement of questionnaire criteria by contrasting the responses of dietitians and non-dietitians; 4) reliability assessment by question exclusion based on item difficulty (too easy and too difficult for non-dietitian practitioners), item discrimination, internal consistency and reproducibility index determination; and 5) scoring the completed questionnaires. Dietitians obtained higher scores than non-dietitians (Mann-Whitney U test, P < 0.05), confirming the validity of the questionnaire criteria. Items were discriminated by correlating the score for each item with the total score, using a minimum of 0.2 as a correlation coefficient cutoff value. Item difficulty was controlled by excluding questions answered correctly by more than 90% of the non-dietitian subjects (too easy) or by less than 10% of them (too difficult). The final questionnaire contained 26 of the original 42 questions, increasing Cronbach's α value from 0.788 to 0.807. Test-retest agreement between respondents was classified as good to very good (Kappa test, >0.60). The KNOA questionnaire developed for primary care practitioners is a valid, consistent and suitable instrument that can be applied over time, making it a promising tool for developing and guiding public health policies.

Validation of a Comprehensive Early Childhood Allergy Questionnaire.

PubMed

Minasyan, Anna; Babajanyan, Arman; Campbell, Dianne E; Nanan, Ralph

2015-09-01

Parental questionnaires to assess incidence of pediatric allergic disease have been validated for use in school-aged children. Currently, there is no validated questionnaire-based assessment of food allergy, atopic dermatitis (AD), and asthma for infants and young children. The Comprehensive Early Childhood Allergy Questionnaire was designed for detecting AD, asthma, and IgE-mediated food allergies in children aged 1-5 years. A nested case-control design was applied. Parents of 150 children attending pediatric outpatient clinics completed the questionnaire before being clinically assessed by a pediatrician for allergies. Sensitivity, specificity, and reproducibility of the questionnaire were assessed. Seventy-seven children were diagnosed with one or more current allergic diseases. The questionnaire demonstrated high overall sensitivity of 0.93 (95% CI 0.86-0.98) with a specificity of 0.79 (95% CI 0.68-0.88). Questionnaire reproducibility was good with a kappa agreement rate for symptom-related questions of 0.45-0.90. Comprehensive Early Childhood Allergy Questionnaire accurately and reliably reflects the presence of allergies in children aged 1-5 years. Its use is warranted as a tool for determining prevalence of allergies in this pediatric age group. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Development and validation of a questionnaire assessing the quality of life impact of Colour Blindness (CBQoL).

PubMed

Barry, John A; Mollan, Susan; Burdon, Michael A; Jenkins, Michelle; Denniston, Alastair K

2017-10-02

Congenital colour vision deficiency (CVD), commonly called 'colour blindness', affects around 8% of men and 0.4% of women. Although many aspects of health (e.g. change in colour of urine) and healthcare (e.g. coloured medication, colour-coded diagnostic tests), and modern life depend upon colour coding (e.g. graphs, maps, signals), the impact of colour blindness on everyday life is not generally considered a topic of importance. This study is the first to create and validate a questionnaire measuring the quality of life (QoL) impact of being colour blind. This study consisted of two phases. Firstly, the questionnaire design and development phase was led by an expert panel and piloted on a focus group. Secondly, an online sample of 128 men and 291 women filled in the questionnaire, and the psychometric properties of the questionnaire were analysed using principal components analysis (PCA). The scores of colour blind (CB) participants and normal-sighted controls, controlling for age and sex, were compared using matched t-tests. The PCA resulted in a questionnaire with three domains (or subscales): QoL for Health & Lifestyle, QoL for Work, and QoL for Emotions. Controlling for age, there was a significantly greater negative impact on QoL for CB people than normal-sighted controls in regards to confusion over colour in various aspects of their health (p = 5 × 10 -7 ), work (p = 1.3 × 10 -7 ), and emotional life (p = 6 × 10 -5 ). Colour blindness can significantly impact quality of life for health, emotions, and especially careers. The tool developed here could be useful in future clinical studies to measure changes in CBQoL in response to therapy in conditions where colour vision is affected. We also discuss ways in which everyday problems related to colour vision might be reduced, for example, workplaces could avoid colour coding where a non-colour alternative is possible.

Infection control professionals' information-seeking preferences.

PubMed

Mortensen, Heidi J; Alexander, Jeffrey L; Nehrenz, Guy M; Porter, Cynthia

2013-03-01

The aims of this study were to: 1) establish whether infection control professionals (ICPs) who had access to and utilised medical librarian services for evidence-based medicine (EBM) research perceived this assistance to be useful and 2) to establish whether ICPs who used electronic or hard copy resources for EBM research perceived that those resources had a significant impact on their work. Convenience sampling was used to collect quantitative data via a questionnaire. Study participants were members of South-west and Western chapters of the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology. There were 264 questionnaires distributed in this study; 179 participants completed the questionnaire. The response rate for eligible respondents was 59.5% (157). Results indicated 56.7% (51) of the ICPs with librarian access reported requesting assistance from their work facility librarian. In reference to locating infection control information, 77.9% (95), 87.3% (124) and 93.3% (138) of ICPs found textbooks, journals and the Internet 'very useful' or 'useful', respectively. Study results indicated ICPs who used the assistance of medical librarians and/or hard copy or electronic resources for EBM research perceived such sources to be valuable for obtaining infection control information. © 2012 The authors. Health Information and Libraries Journal © 2012 Health Libraries Group.

Assessing treatment-as-usual provided to control groups in adherence trials: Exploring the use of an open-ended questionnaire for identifying behaviour change techniques.

PubMed

Oberjé, Edwin J M; Dima, Alexandra L; Pijnappel, Frank J; Prins, Jan M; de Bruin, Marijn

2015-01-01

Reporting guidelines call for descriptions of control group support in equal detail as for interventions. However, how to assess the active content (behaviour change techniques (BCTs)) of treatment-as-usual (TAU) delivered to control groups in trials remains unclear. The objective of this study is to pre-test a method of assessing TAU in a multicentre cost-effectiveness trial of an HIV-treatment adherence intervention. HIV-nurses (N = 21) completed a semi-structured open-ended questionnaire enquiring about TAU adherence counselling. Two coders independently coded BCTs. Completeness and clarity of nurse responses, inter-coder reliabilities and the type of BCTs reported were examined. The clarity and completeness of nurse responses were adequate. Twenty-three of the 26 identified BCTs could be reliably coded (mean κ = .79; mean agreement rate = 96%) and three BCTs scored below κ = .60. Total number of BCTs reported per nurse ranged between 7 and 19 (M = 13.86, SD = 3.35). This study suggests that the TAU open-ended questionnaire is a feasible and reliable tool to capture active content of support provided to control participants in a multicentre adherence intervention trial. Considerable variability in the number of BCTs provided to control patients was observed, illustrating the importance of reliably collecting and accurately reporting control group support.

Sociodemographic characteristics and aggression quotient among children in conflict with the law in India: A case-control study.

PubMed

Gupta, Archit; Biddala, Ooha Susmita; Dwivedi, Mandavi; Variar, Prathyaksha; Singh, Aparna; Sen, Soham; Bhat, P Shivaram; Kunte, Renuka; Nair, Velu; Shankar, Subramanian

2015-01-01

The incidence of juvenile delinquency has increased in the past decade in India and juvenile crimes are increasingly being reported. This has been attributed to many biopsychosocial factors. It is essential to understand these issues in the context of India to determine the response of acts of children in conflict with the law. We aimed to assess the sociodemographic characteristics and the aggression quotient of children in conflict with the law (juvenile delinquents) in observation homes across India and compare them with those who were not. We did a case-control study in five juvenile homes in the cities of Hyderabad, Lucknow and Pune. Ninety inmates (74 boys, 16 girls) were included in the study. Sociodemographic characteristics and aggression quotient of children in conflict with the law were evaluated using two separate questionnaires, i.e. a sociodemographic questionnaire and the modified Buss and Perry aggression questionnaire. These were compared with a control group of similar age, sex and income status. All the children in conflict with the law surveyed belonged to the lower socioeconomic strata, had a significantly higher chance (p<0.05) of coming from broken homes, have addictions, jailed family members and suffered physical and sexual abuse than controls. They also scored higher on all domains of the aggression questionnaire than controls. A collection of sociodemographic attributes such as broken homes, addictions and abuse seem to have an important association with juvenile delinquency. Children in conflict with the law are also more likely to be associated with a higher aggression quotient as compared to children who were not. Copyright 2015, NMJI.

The Relationship between Childhood Maltreatment and Opiate Dependency in Adolescence and Middle Age

PubMed Central

Naqavi, Mohammad Reza; Mohammadi, Masood; Salari, Vahid; Nakhaee, Nouzar

2011-01-01

Background Child maltreatment is a global phenomenon with possible serious long-term consequences. The present study aimed to determine the relationship between childhood maltreatment and opiate dependency in older age. Methods In this study, 212 opiate dependent individuals and 216 control subjects were selected consecutively. The data collection instrument was a questionnaire which consisted of background variables, General Health Questionnaire-12 (GHQ-12), and Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ). The questionnaires were anonymously completed by both groups in a private environment after obtaining informed consents. Findings The mean age in the addicts and non-addicts were 31.4 ± 6.7 and 30.8 ± 7.5, respectively (P = 0.367). Moreover, 84.4% of the opiate abusers and 76.9% percent of the control group were male (P = 0.051). The mean score of CTQ in the study and control groups were 47.2 ± 1.0 and 35.8 ± 0.6, respectively (P < 0.001). The frequency of all types of abuse and neglect were higher in the addicted group. While 70.3% of the study group reported at least one type of childhood maltreatment, this figure was as low as 33.8% in the control group (P < 0.001). After adjusting the two groups for differing background characteristics and the GHQ-12 score, emotional abuse (OR = 5.06), physical neglect (OR = 1.96), and sexual abuse (OR = 1.89) were proved to have significant relationships with addiction to opiates. Conclusion The frequency of all types of childhood maltreatment in the group addicted to opiates was higher than the control group. Emotional abuse, physical neglect, and sexual abuse had significant effects after adjusting other variables. PMID:24494122

The Relationship between Childhood Maltreatment and Opiate Dependency in Adolescence and Middle Age.

PubMed

Naqavi, Mohammad Reza; Mohammadi, Masood; Salari, Vahid; Nakhaee, Nouzar

2011-01-01

Child maltreatment is a global phenomenon with possible serious long-term consequences. The present study aimed to determine the relationship between childhood maltreatment and opiate dependency in older age. In this study, 212 opiate dependent individuals and 216 control subjects were selected consecutively. The data collection instrument was a questionnaire which consisted of background variables, General Health Questionnaire-12 (GHQ-12), and Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ). The questionnaires were anonymously completed by both groups in a private environment after obtaining informed consents. The mean age in the addicts and non-addicts were 31.4 ± 6.7 and 30.8 ± 7.5, respectively (P = 0.367). Moreover, 84.4% of the opiate abusers and 76.9% percent of the control group were male (P = 0.051). The mean score of CTQ in the study and control groups were 47.2 ± 1.0 and 35.8 ± 0.6, respectively (P < 0.001). The frequency of all types of abuse and neglect were higher in the addicted group. While 70.3% of the study group reported at least one type of childhood maltreatment, this figure was as low as 33.8% in the control group (P < 0.001). After adjusting the two groups for differing background characteristics and the GHQ-12 score, emotional abuse (OR = 5.06), physical neglect (OR = 1.96), and sexual abuse (OR = 1.89) were proved to have significant relationships with addiction to opiates. The frequency of all types of childhood maltreatment in the group addicted to opiates was higher than the control group. Emotional abuse, physical neglect, and sexual abuse had significant effects after adjusting other variables.

B Butterfly Campaign: A social marketing campaign to promote normal childbirth among first-time pregnant women.

PubMed

Darsareh, Fatemeh; Aghamolaei, Teamur; Rajaei, Minoo; Madani, Abdoulhossain; Zare, Shahram

2018-06-18

The steep increase and inappropriateness of caesarean birth represent a healthcare problem in Iran. The purpose of study was to evaluate the effect of a campaign based on social marketing to promote normal childbirth. The study was designed as a prospective case control study. The social marketing campaign was implemented from March 2016 to January 2017. A demographic data questionnaire, obstetrical history questionnaire, maternal knowledge assessment questionnaire, and maternal health belief questionnaire comprised the instruments for this study. Only women planning a caesarean birth without any medical indications for the caesarean were enrolled in the study as a case. Those who met the same inclusion criteria and did not want to participate in the campaign were assigned to the control group. In total, 350 first-time pregnant women who composed the campaign group (n=194) and control group (n=156) completed the study. The mean baseline level of knowledge and Health Belief Model component score did not differ between the two groups at baseline. However, after the campaign, knowledge scores, perceived severity, perceived susceptibility, self-efficacy, and cues to action scores differed significantly between the campaign and control groups. The follow-up of all participants in both groups showed that 35.6% (n=69) of participants in the campaign group chose natural birth as their birth method, whereas only 13.5% (n=21) in the control group delivered their newborn vaginally. The B Butterfly social marketing campaign successfully targeted first-time pregnant women who chose to have unnecessary elective cesarean births. Copyright © 2018 Australian College of Midwives. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Sexual function in adolescent and young adult cancer survivors-a population-based study.

PubMed

Olsson, Maria; Steineck, Gunnar; Enskär, Karin; Wilderäng, Ulrica; Jarfelt, Marianne

2018-03-05

Previous research has established that treatments for cancer can result in short- and long-term effects on sexual function in adult cancer patients. The purpose was to investigate patient-reported physical and psychosexual complications in adolescents and young adults after they have undergone treatment for cancer. In this population-based study, a study-specific questionnaire was developed by a method used in several previous investigations carried out by our research group, Clinical Cancer Epidemiology. The questionnaire was developed in collaboration with adolescent and young adult cancer survivors (15-29 years) and validated by professionals from oncology units, midwives, epidemiologists, and statisticians. The topics covered in the questionnaire were psychosocial health, body image, sexuality, fertility, education, work, and leisure. The web-based questionnaire was sent to adolescent and young adult cancer survivors and matched controls in Sweden. In this study, adolescent and young adult cancer survivors (15-29 years) showed low satisfaction regarding sexual function compared to controls (P < 0.01). Female adolescent and young adult cancer survivors had a statistically significant lower frequency of orgasm during sexual activity than the controls (P < 0.01). Male adolescent and young adult cancer survivors had statistically significant lower sexual desire than the controls (P = 0.04). We found that adolescent and young adult cancer survivors perceived themselves as being less satisfied with their sexual function than matched population-based controls. Adolescent and young adult cancer survivors need psychological rehabilitation support from the health care profession during and after cancer treatment to help them to reduce their reported poor sexual function to enhance a good sexual quality of life.

Sexuality and sexual life in women with spinal cord injury: a controlled study.

PubMed

Kreuter, Margareta; Siösteen, Agneta; Biering-Sørensen, Fin

2008-01-01

To describe sexual life in women with spinal cord injury. Controlled cross-sectional, questionnaire. Women, 18-65 years, treated at spinal cord centres in Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Finland and Iceland. 545 women (57%) completed the questionnaires. The age-matched control group consisted of 507 women. The 104-item Spinal Cord Injury Women Questionnaire, was designed to assess different dimensions of sexuality. 80% of the women with spinal cord injury had engaged in sex after the injury. Reasons for not wanting or not having the courage to be intimate and sexual were physical problems, low sexual desire, low self-esteem and feelings of being unattractive. The motivations of both the women with spinal cord injury and controls to engage in sexual activity were intimacy-based rather than primarily sexual. Being in the right mood both before and during sex to become receptive to sexual stimulation was important. For women who are able to overcome the physical restrictions and mental obstacles due to injury, it is possible to regain an active and positive sexual life together with a partner. Sexual information and counselling should be available both during initial rehabilitation and later when the women have returned to their homes.

Early Maladaptive Schemas and Cognitive Distortions in Adults with Morbid Obesity: Relationships with Mental Health Status.

PubMed

da Luz, Felipe Q; Sainsbury, Amanda; Hay, Phillipa; Roekenes, Jessica A; Swinbourne, Jessica; da Silva, Dhiordan C; da S Oliveira, Margareth

2017-02-28

Dysfunctional cognitions may be associated with unhealthy eating behaviors seen in individuals with obesity. However, dysfunctional cognitions commonly occur in individuals with poor mental health independently of weight. We examined whether individuals with morbid obesity differed with regard to dysfunctional cognitions when compared to individuals of normal weight, when mental health status was controlled for. 111 participants-53 with morbid obesity and 58 of normal weight-were assessed with the Mini-Mental State Examination, Young Schema Questionnaire, Cognitive Distortions Questionnaire, Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale, and a Demographic and Clinical Questionnaire. Participants with morbid obesity showed higher scores in one (insufficient self-control/self-discipline) of 15 early maladaptive schemas and in one (labeling) of 15 cognitive distortions compared to participants of normal weight. The difference between groups for insufficient self-control/self-discipline was not significant when mental health status was controlled for. Participants with morbid obesity showed more severe anxiety than participants of normal weight. Our findings did not show clinically meaningful differences in dysfunctional cognitions between participants with morbid obesity or of normal weight. Dysfunctional cognitions presented by individuals with morbid obesity are likely related to their individual mental health and not to their weight.

Chronic symptoms are common in patients with neuroborreliosis -- a questionnaire follow-up study.

PubMed

Vrethem, M; Hellblom, L; Widlund, M; Ahl, M; Danielsson, O; Ernerudh, J; Forsberg, P

2002-10-01

The existence of chronic neuroborreliosis is controversial. The aim of our study was to investigate the existence and kind of persistent symptoms in patients previously treated because of neurological symptoms as a result of neuroborreliosis. A total of 106 patients with neuroborreliosis, according to established criteria, and a control group of 123 patients with Borrelia induced erythema migrans diagnosed in a general practitioner office were studied. A questionnaire was sent to patients and controls concerning their health situation. Time from onset of neurological symptoms to the questionnaire send out was 32 months (mean) for the patients with neuroborreliosis and 33 months (mean) for the controls. Fifty per cent of the individuals in the patient group compared with 16% of the individuals in the control group showed persistent complaints after their Borrelia infection (P < 0.0001). The most significant differences between the groups were the presence of neuropsychiatric symptoms such as headache, attention problems, memory difficulties and depression. Paresthesia, pain and persistent facial palsy was also significantly more common in patients treated because of neuroborreliosis. Our study shows that persisting neurological symptoms are common after a neuroborreliosis infection. The pathological mechanisms that lay behind the development of chronic symptoms, however, are still uncertain.

Usability and feasibility of mobile phone diaries in an experimental physical exercise study.

PubMed

Heinonen, Reetta; Luoto, Riitta; Lindfors, Pirjo; Nygård, Clas-Håkan

2012-03-01

Wireless and mobile phone technology as a method of data collection will increase alongside conventional methods. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the use of a mobile phone application for recording symptoms and physical activity exertion during an experimental physical exercise study. An experimental study on the effects of physical exercise on the well-being of menopausal women included 158 subjects between 44 and 63 years of age. The women were randomized into intervention and control groups. All participants in both groups reported daily symptoms by responding to morning and evening questionnaires via mobile phones. The usability of the mobile phone as a data collector tool was evaluated with the System Usability Scale (SUS) questionnaire 2 months after the intervention. The feasibility evaluation was based on the frequency of responses and open questions. The response rates were about 70% to both morning and evening questionnaires. The average frequency of responses (n =158) to morning questionnaires was 125 (±40)/170 (±14) and to evening questionnaires was 118 (±40)/171 (±14). The response rate did not differ between the intervention and the control groups. The SUS score was on average 75.4 (range, 0-100; n =107). A mobile phone diary is a feasible and usable tool for data collection in clinical trials.

Psychometric properties of the defense style questionnaire (DSQ-40) in adolescents.

PubMed

Ruuttu, Titta; Pelkonen, Mirjami; Holi, Matti; Karlsson, Linnea; Kiviruusu, Olli; Heilä, Hannele; Tuisku, Virpi; Tuulio-Henriksson, Annamari; Marttunen, Mauri

2006-02-01

This study examined the psychometric properties of the Defense Style Questionnaire (DSQ-40) in adolescents. Internal consistency, factor structure, and discriminant and concurrent validity of the DSQ-40 were studied in 211 adolescent psychiatric outpatients aged 13 to 19 years and 199 age-matched and sex-matched controls. Principal components analysis yielded four internally consistent components: mature, neurotic, image-distorting, and immature defense styles. The outpatients reported more immature, image-distorting, and neurotic styles and less mature style than did the controls, suggesting adequate discriminant validity. As a demonstration of convergent and concurrent validity, the severity of psychiatric symptoms assessed by the General Health Questionnaire and psychosocial adjustment assessed by the Global Assessment of Functioning Scale correlated theoretically meaningfully with the different defense styles. The DSQ-40 appears to be a reliable and valid instrument for adolescents.

Prenotification but not envelope teaser increased response rates in a bulimia nervosa mental health literacy survey: A randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

McLean, Siân A; Paxton, Susan J; Massey, Robin; Mond, Jonathan M; Rodgers, Bryan; Hay, Phillipa J

2014-08-01

Understanding attitudes to mental health issues can inform public health interventions. However, low response rates may contribute to nonresponse bias. In a randomized controlled trial we examined the effect of sending a prenotification postcard before the questionnaire and the placement of a short message on the survey envelope (teaser) on response rates to a mailed questionnaire about bulimia nervosa "mental health literacy". Questionnaires were mailed to 3,010 adults (50.6% female and 49.4% male) aged 18-65 years. In a 2 (pre-notification-present; absent) by 2 (teaser-present; absent) design, questionnaire recipients were randomly allocated to the experimental strategies. Outcomes considered were response rate, response time, and cost. The overall response rate was 22.0%. Significant main effects showed higher response rates for the use of prenotification (present = 23.6%; absent = 20.3%), among female participants, and older participants. A significant interaction of teaser by gender indicated lower response rates for men who received the teaser but not for women. Older participants returned the questionnaire more promptly than younger participants. Females-but not males-who received the teaser were slower to return the questionnaire. Higher response rates for participants receiving the postcard compensated for increased costs, particularly for males and older participants. Response rates to a mental health postal survey can be increased through the use of prenotification. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Psychiatrists' Perceptions and Practices in Treating Patients' Obesity

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lichwala-Zyla, Christine; Price, James H.; Dake, Joseph A.; Jordan, Timothy; Price, Joy Ann

2009-01-01

Objective: This study identified psychiatrists' perceptions and practices regarding advising and treating obese patients. Methods: Questionnaires were mailed to a national random sample of 500 members of APA. A three-wave mailing was used to maximize the return rate. The questionnaire contained items on weight control based on the Stages of Change…

76 FR 10421 - 60-Day Notice of Proposed Information Collection: DS-5513, Biographical Questionnaire for U.S...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-02-24

...-5513, Biographical Questionnaire for U.S. Passport, 1405-XXXX ACTION: Notice of request for public... for U.S. Passport. OMB Control Number: None. Type of Request: New Collection. Originating Office: Bureau of Consular Affairs, Passport Services, Office of Project Management and Operational Support...

Factor Structure of the Children's Behavior Questionnaire in Children with Williams Syndrome

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Leyfer, Ovsanna; John, Angela E.; Woodruff-Borden, Janet; Mervis, Carolyn B.

2012-01-01

To examine the factor structure of temperament in 5-10-year-olds with Williams syndrome, an exploratory factor analysis was conducted on the responses of parents of 192 children on the children's behavior questionnaire. Four factors were identified. Two corresponded to factors reported for typically developing children: effortful control and…

Weight Loss Self-Efficacy and Modelled Behaviour: Gaining Competence through Example

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schulz, Benjamin R.; McDonald, Marvin J.

2011-01-01

The Weight Efficacy Life-Style Questionnaire (WEL) and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) assessed self-efficacy and physical activity for 124 volunteers aged 17-61. It was administered before and after participants attended a video modelling workshop. Half of the participants in the treatment and control groups were given…

Reliability and Validity of the "Achievement Emotions Questionnaire": A Study of Argentinean University Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Paoloni, Paola Verónica; Vaja, Arabela Beatriz; Muñoz, Verónica Lilian

2014-01-01

Introduction: This paper aims at describing the psychometric features of the Achievement Emotions Questionnaire (AEQ), focusing specifically on the section that measures class emotions. From a theoretical perspective, this instrument was designed based on the control-value theory of achievement emotions. Therefore, a description of the…

Testing Differential Effects of Computer-Based, Web-Based and Paper-Based Administration of Questionnaire Research Instruments

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hardre, Patricia L.; Crowson, H. Michael; Xie, Kui; Ly, Cong

2007-01-01

Translation of questionnaire instruments to digital administration systems, both self-contained and web-based, is widespread and increasing daily. However, the literature is lean on controlled empirical studies investigating the potential for differential effects of administrative methods. In this study, two university student samples were…

[Long-term effects of traumatic experiences on somatic and psychic complaints of German World War Two refugees].

PubMed

Fischer, C J; Struwe, J; Lemke, M R

2006-01-01

The effects of expulsion from German territories following World War Two have not been studied systematically, and little is known about long-term effects of this potentially traumatic experience. Via mail, 600 refugees from former German territories due to World War Two were asked to complete questionnaires about biographic data, somatic and psychic health (SCL-90-R questionnaire), and specific aspects related to traumatic experiences (post-traumatic stress disorder questionnaire). Of those contacted, 25% participated in the investigation. Of them, 9.8% fulfilled diagnostic criteria of post-traumatic stress disorder according to DSM IV. Only 1.8% of an age-matched control group met these criteria. Analysis of the SCL-90-R questionnaire showed higher scores for former refugees in somatic and psychic complaints than the control group. We show that expulsion following war may lead to symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder and somatic and psychic complaints after more than 50 years. Our investigation supports the necessity of adequate care for subjects expelled from their home countries and the psychologically traumatised.

Fibromyalgia as a cause of uncontrolled asthma: a case-control multicenter study.

PubMed

Martinez-Moragon, Eva; Plaza, Vicente; Torres, Isabel; Rosado, Ana; Urrutia, Isabel; Casas, Xavier; Hinojosa, Belen; Blanco-Aparicio, Marina; Delgado, Julio; Quirce, Santiago; Sabadell, Carles; Cebollero, Pilar; Muñoz-Fernández, Ana

2017-12-01

Fibromyalgia can affect the control of asthma when both diseases are present in a single patient. To characterize asthma in patients with concomitant fibromyalgia to assess whether fibromyalgia is an independent factor of asthma severity that influences poor asthma control. We also evaluated how dyspnea is perceived by patients in order to demonstrate that alterations in the perception of airway obstruction may be responsible for poor asthma control. This was a cross-sectional case-control multicenter study, in which 56 patients in the asthma and fibromyalgia group were matched to 36 asthmatics by sex, approximate age, and asthma severity level. All patients were women. Study variables included the Asthma Control Test (ACT), the Mini Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (MiniAQLQ), the Nijmegen hyperventilation syndrome questionnaire, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and perception of dyspnea after acute bronchoconstriction. Although patients in both study groups showed similar asthma severity and use of anti-asthmatic drugs, patients in the asthma and fibromyalgia group showed lower scores on the ACT and MiniAQLQ questionnaires, and higher scores of anxiety and depression as well as hyperventilation compared to asthma patients without fibromyalgia. All these differences were statistically significant. Fibromyalgia in patients with asthma influences poor control of the respiratory disease and is associated with altered perception of dyspnea, hyperventilation syndrome, high prevalence of depression and anxiety, and impaired quality of life. Fibromyalgia may be considered a risk factor for uncontrolled asthma in patients suffering from asthma and fibromyalgia concomitantly.

Formative Evaluation of a University Birth Control Education Program.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Huettman, Julie K. Doidge; Sarvela, Paul D.

1992-01-01

A university birth control education program was created to improve student knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors. Students attended a birth control class before visiting the health clinic for prescriptions. Pre- and posttest questionnaires and clinician assessments indicated knowledge of birth control improved significantly, and students became…

Persistent self-consciousness about facial appearance, measured with the Derriford appearance scale 59, in patients after long-term biochemical remission of acromegaly.

PubMed

Roerink, S H P P; Wagenmakers, M A E M; Wessels, J F; Sterenborg, R B T M; Smit, J W; Hermus, A R M M; Netea-Maier, R T

2015-06-01

Acromegaly is associated with impaired quality of life (QoL) and causes anatomical disproportions, which may contribute to the decreased QoL after successful treatment. The Derriford appearance scale 59 (DAS59) is a questionnaire measuring psychological distress and disruptions to everyday life associated with self-consciousness of appearance. Investigate the psychological distress and dysfunction related to self-consciousness about appearance and its effect on QoL in patients in long-term remission of acromegaly. Patients (>18 years old) treated for acromegaly at the Department of Endocrinology of the Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen were invited to participate. A gender-, age- and body mass index matched control group was provided by the patients themselves. Participants were asked to complete the modified DAS59-, research and development 36- (RAND-36), acromegaly quality of life questionnaire (AcroQoL) and a sociodemographic questionnaire. Differences between patient- and control groups and correlations between questionnaire scores and clinical characteristics collected from medical records were analyzed. Questionnaire scores. Of the 120 respondents, 73 agreed to participate [all cured or under biochemical control, median remission time 10.5 years (range 2.3-43.6 years)]. Of these, 34 (46.6%) reported self-consciousness about their appearance. Twenty-nine of these patients (85.3%) pointed out their face to be a prominent source of self-consciousness. Fifty-seven matched control subjects were included as well. Significant correlations were found between the scores of the DAS59 and the AcroQoL, RAND-36 and VAS in patients. Even after long-term remission of acromegaly, a large number of patients are self-conscious about their appearance, leading to psychological distress and disruptions to everyday life and decreased QoL. Facial features were the most important source of self-consciousness. This stresses the importance of addressing self-consciousness of appearance and the need for additional support in this regard during follow-up in these patients.

What impact do questionnaire length and monetary incentives have on mailed health psychology survey response?

PubMed

Robb, Kathryn A; Gatting, Lauren; Wardle, Jane

2017-11-01

Response rates to health-related surveys are declining. This study tested two strategies to improve the response rate to a health psychology survey mailed through English general practices: (1) sending a shortened questionnaire and (2) offering a monetary incentive to return a completed questionnaire. Randomized controlled trial. Adults (n = 4,241) aged 45-59 years, from four General Practices in South-East England, were mailed a survey on attitudes towards bowel cancer screening. Using a 2 × 4 factorial design, participants were randomized to receive a 'short' (four A4 pages) or a 'long' (seven A4 pages) questionnaire, and one of four monetary incentives to return a completed questionnaire - (1) no monetary incentive, (2) £2.50 shop voucher, (3) £5.00 shop voucher, and (4) inclusion in a £250 shop voucher prize draw. Age, gender, and area-level deprivation were obtained from the General Practices. The overall response rate was 41% (n = 1,589). Response to the 'short' questionnaire (42%) was not significantly different from the 'long' questionnaire (40%). The £2.50 incentive (43%) significantly improved response rates in univariate analyses, and remained significant after controlling for age, gender, area-level deprivation, and questionnaire length. The £5.00 (42%) and £250 prize draw (41%) incentives had no significant impact on response rates compared to no incentive (38%). A small monetary incentive (£2.50) may slightly increase response to a mailed health psychology survey. The length of the questionnaire (four pages vs. seven pages) did not influence response. Although frequently used, entry into a prize draw did not increase response. Achieving representative samples remains a challenge for health psychology. Statement of contribution What is already known on this subject Response rates to mailed questionnaires continue to decline, threatening the representativeness of data. Prize draw incentives are frequently used but there is little evidence to support their efficacy. Research on interactions between incentives, questionnaire length, and demographics is lacking. What does this study add Contrary to previous findings, questionnaire length did not influence response rate. A £2.50 incentive increased response, while incentives of £5.00 and a £250 prize draw did not. Achieving representative samples to questionnaires remains a challenge for health psychology. © 2017 The Authors. British Journal of Health Psychology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of British Psychological Society.

SMS text pre-notification and delivery of reminder e-mails to increase response rates to postal questionnaires in the SUSPEND trial: a factorial design, randomised controlled trial.

PubMed

Starr, Kathryn; McPherson, Gladys; Forrest, Mark; Cotton, Seonaidh C

2015-07-08

Patient-reported outcomes are vital in informing randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and health-care interventions and policies from the patient's perspective. However, participant non-response may introduce bias and can affect the generalisability of the trial. This study evaluates two interventions aimed at increasing response rates to postal questionnaires within a large, UK-wide RCT: pre-notification via short messenger service (SMS) text prior to sending the initial mailing of trial questionnaires versus no pre-notification; for non-responders to the initial mailing of the questionnaires, an e-mail reminder (containing a hyperlink to complete the questionnaire online) versus a postal reminder. This study is a 2 × 2 partial factorial design RCT nested within an RCT of medical expulsive therapy for ureteric stone disease. Participants who supplied a mobile telephone number were randomly assigned to receive an SMS text pre-notification of questionnaire delivery or no pre-notification. Those who supplied an e-mail address were randomly assigned to receive a questionnaire reminder by e-mail or post. Participants could be randomly assigned to the pre-notification comparison or the reminder comparison or both. The primary outcome measure was response rate at each questionnaire time point. Four hundred eighteen participants were randomly assigned to the SMS pre-notification comparison (80% were male, and the mean age was 41 years with a standard deviation (SD) of 11.1). The intervention had no effect on response rate at either questionnaire time point. In subgroup analyses, SMS pre-notification increased response rates in women but only at the first questionnaire time point. One hundred nineteen participants were randomly assigned to the reminder comparison (80% were male, and the mean age was 42 years with an SD of 12.1). There was no difference in response rate in those who received an e-mail reminder compared with those who received a postal reminder. SMS text pre-notification of questionnaire delivery and email delivery of questionnaire reminders did not improve response rates. There was some evidence to suggest that SMS text pre-notification may be effective in women, and further studies to investigate this may be warranted. E-mail reminders for participants to return their postal questionnaire could be advantageous given that response rates were similar following either type of reminder and the low cost of delivering an e-mail compared with a postal reminder. This is a substudy of the SUSPEND trial (ISCTRN69423238) (18 Nov. 2010).

Parental self-efficacy in childhood overweight: validation of the Lifestyle Behavior Checklist in the Netherlands.

PubMed

Gerards, Sanne M P L; Hummel, Karin; Dagnelie, Pieter C; de Vries, Nanne K; Kremers, Stef P J

2013-01-18

Evaluating whether parental challenges and self-efficacy toward managing children's lifestyle behaviors are successfully addressed by interventions requires valid instruments. The Lifestyle Behavior Checklist (LBC) has recently been developed in the Australian context. It consists of two subscales: the Problem scale, which measures parental perceptions of children's behavioral problems related to overweight and obesity, and the Confidence scale, measuring parental self-efficacy in dealing with these problems. The aim of the current study was to systematically translate the questionnaire into Dutch and to evaluate its internal consistency, construct validity and test-retest reliability. The LBC was systematically translated by four experts at Maastricht University. In total, 392 parents of 3-to13-year-old children were invited to fill out two successive online questionnaires with a two-week interval. Of these, 273 parents responded to the first questionnaire (test, response rate = 69.6%), and of the 202 who could be invited for the second questionnaire (retest), 100 responded (response rate = 49.5%). We assessed the questionnaire's internal consistency (Cronbach's α), construct validity (Spearman's Rho correlation tests, using the criterion measures: restrictiveness, nurturance, and psychological control), and test-retest reliability (Spearman's Rho correlation tests). Both scales had high internal consistency (Cronbach's α ≥ 0.90). Spearman correlation coefficients indicated acceptable test-retest reliability for both the Problem scale (rs = 0.74) and the Confidence scale (rs = 0.70). The LBC Problem scale was significantly correlated to all criterion scales (nurturance, restrictiveness, psychological control) in the hypothesized direction, and the LBC Confidence scale was significantly correlated with nurturance and psychological control in the hypothesized direction, but not with restrictiveness. The Dutch translation of the LBC was found to be a reliable and reasonably valid questionnaire to measure parental perceptions of children's weight-related problem behavior and the extent to which parents feel confident to manage these problems.

A Study of the Personnel Problems in a U.S. Air Force Matrix Organization.

DTIC Science & Technology

JOB SATISFACTION, *AIR FORCE PERSONNEL, *ENGINEERS, QUESTIONNAIRES, THESES, ORGANIZATION THEORY, PERSONNEL DEVELOPMENT, CONFLICT , MANAGEMENT PLANNING AND CONTROL, CONTROL, SECURITY, INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS, LEADERSHIP, MORALE.

Gender Identity and Sex Role of Patients Operated on for Bladder Exstrophy-Epispadias.

PubMed

Taskinen, Seppo; Suominen, Janne S; Mattila, Aino K

2016-08-01

We evaluated whether genital deformity has an impact on gender identity and sex role in patients operated on for bladder exstrophy-epispadias complex. A total of 62 adolescents and adults operated on for bladder exstrophy-epispadias complex were mailed questionnaires evaluating gender identity (Gender Identity/Gender Dysphoria Questionnaire for Adolescents and Adults) and sex role (Bem Sex Role Inventory). Of the patients 33 responded and the results were compared with 99 gender matched controls. On the gender identity questionnaire female patients had median scores similar to those of their gender matched controls (4.93 vs 4.89, p = 0.412) but in males the score was lower compared to controls (4.87 vs 4.96, p = 0.023), indicating somewhat more conflicted gender identity. However, no patient had gender dysphoria. Female sex role index was higher in female patients vs controls (5.9 vs 5.3, p = 0.003) but was comparable between male patients and controls (5.2 vs 5.0, p = 0.459). Masculine sex role indices were comparable between female patients and controls as well as between male patients and controls. Of 32 patients 17 were considered to have androgynous sex role, as were 24 of 97 controls (p = 0.004). The exact diagnosis (bladder exstrophy or epispadias) or dissatisfaction with appearance of the genitals had no impact on gender identity or on sex role indices. Male patients had lower gender identity scores compared to controls and female sex role was enhanced among female patients. Androgynous sex role was more common in patients vs controls. Gender dysphoria was not noted in any patient. Copyright © 2016 American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of respiratory system in textile-dyeing workers.

PubMed

Salmani Nodoushan, Mojahede; Mehrparvar, Amir Houshang; Loukzadeh, Ziba; Rahimian, Masoud; Ghove Nodoushan, Mohamad Ali; Jafari Nodoushan, Reza

2014-01-01

Despite the presence of many textile and dyeing plants in Iran, we couldn't find similar studies in this country. Forthermore, considering progress in the dyeing process and engineering controls, assessment of respiratory system is important for these workers. The present study was performed to evaluate the respiratory system in dyeing workers. In a cross-sectional study, 101 dyeing workers (all dyeing workers in yazd) and 90 workers without respiratory exposures (control group), were evaluated. A questionnaire was filled for each participant included Venables questionnaire and some other questions about age, work experience, personal or familial history of asthma or atopy, acute and chronic respiratory symptoms; Then spirometry was performed before and after the shift work Results: The frequency of acute and chronic respiratory symptoms was significantly higher among dyeing workers than controls. According to the Venables questionnaire, 11.9% of the dyeing workers suffered from asthma. Means of FVC and FEV1 of pre-shift spirometry were lower than control (p< 0.001). Across-shift spirometry showed significant reduction of FVC (p< 0.001), FEV1 (p< 0.001), FEF25-75% (p= 0.05) and FEF25% (p= 0.007) in dyeing workers compared to the control group. Evaluation of dyeing workers' respiratory system in this study showed that despite development in dyeing processes and engineering controls, workers in this job show more prevalent acute and chronic symptoms, and across-shift changes in spirometric parameters were significantly higher in this work group than the control group. Therefore it is necessary to pay attention to the control of respiratory exposures in this job.

Delayed repair of distal biceps tendon ruptures is successful: a case-control study.

PubMed

Haverstock, John; Grewal, Ruby; King, Graham J W; Athwal, George S

2017-06-01

The literature has shown an increased complication rate with a delay to surgical repair of acute distal biceps tendon ruptures; however, little has been documented regarding the outcome of delayed repairs. This case-control study compared a study cohort of delayed (>21 days) distal biceps tendon repairs with a control cohort repaired acutely (<21 days). Sixteen delayed repair cases were reviewed and matched with acute controls (1:3) based on repair technique, age, and workers' compensation status. The delayed cohort was reviewed and completed isometric strength testing and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire; Patient-Rated Elbow Evaluation; and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons elbow questionnaire. The time to surgery averaged 37 ± 12 days in the delayed cohort versus 10 ± 6 days in the acute cohort. Complications occurred in 63% of patients in the delayed cohort versus 29% in the acute cohort (P = .04); however, 90% of the delayed cohort's complications consisted of transient paresthesias. Follow-up scores on the Patient-Rated Elbow Evaluation, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire, and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons elbow questionnaire were not statistically different between cohorts (P > .37, P > .22, and P > .46, respectively). Despite a high rate of initial complications, patients treated with distal biceps tendon repair after a delay (>21 days) can expect similar functional outcomes to those treated acutely. Copyright © 2017 Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery Board of Trustees. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Barriers to dental care for children with autism spectrum disorder.

PubMed

Barry, S; O'Sullivan, E A; Toumba, K J

2014-04-01

This study examined the problems encountered by children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), when accessing dental care. This was a cross-sectional, case-control questionnaire study. A piloted questionnaire was developed to identify the main barriers to dental care experienced by patients with ASD in Hull and East Riding. The study group was comprised of parents/carers of children with ASD, and the control group was comprised of parents/carers of age matched healthy, neurotypical children. Results were analysed using Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests where appropriate. Significance was deemed at p < 0.05. Ordinal data was presented using medians and 25th and 75th centiles and compared using Mann-Whitney U test. A piloted questionnaire was developed to identify the main barriers to dental care experienced by patients with ASD in Hull and East Riding. The study group was comprised of parents/carers of children with ASD, and the control group was comprised of parents/carers of age matched healthy, neurotypical children. 112 subjects completed the questionnaire. There was no significant difference in accessing dental care between study and control groups (p = 0.051), although access was perceived as more difficult in the ASD group (p < 0.001). There was a significantly greater perceived difficulty in travelling to the dental surgery in the ASD group. Predicted negative behaviours were more frequent in the ASD group. All suggested interventions were predicted to be helpful in a significantly greater proportion of the ASD group. Difficulties exist for children with ASD in accessing dental care in the Hull and East Riding area.

Development and Validation of the Diabetes Adolescent Problem Solving Questionnaire

PubMed Central

Mulvaney, Shelagh A.; Jaser, Sarah S.; Rothman, Russell L.; Russell, William; Pittel, Eric J.; Lybarger, Cindy; Wallston, Kenneth A.

2014-01-01

Objective Problem solving is a critical diabetes self-management skill. Because of a lack of clinically feasible measures, our aim was to develop and validate a self-report self-management problem solving questionnaire for adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Methods A multidisciplinary team of diabetes experts generated questionnaire items that addressed diabetes self-management problem solving. Iterative feedback from parents and adolescents resulted in 27 items. Adolescents from two studies (N=156) aged 13–17 were recruited through a pediatric diabetes clinic and completed measures through an online survey. Glycemic control was measured by HbA1c recorded in the medical record. Results Empirical elimination of items using Principal Components Analyses resulted in a 13-item unidimensional measure, the Diabetes Adolescent Problem Solving Questionnaire (DAPSQ) that explained 57% of the variance. The DAPSQ demonstrated internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.92) and was correlated with diabetes self-management (r=0.53, p<.001), self-efficacy (r=0.54, p<.001), and glycemic control (r= −0.24, p<.01). Conclusion The DAPSQ is a brief instrument for assessment of diabetes self-management problem solving in youth with T1D associated with better self-management behaviors and glycemic control. Practice Implications The DAPSQ is a clinically feasible self-report measure that can provide valuable information regarding level of self-management problem solving and guide patient education. PMID:25063715

[The etiology of obsessive-compulsive disorder from the aspects of attachment theory, with special regard to perceived parental treatment, attachment patterns and emotion regulation difficulties].

PubMed

Rejtô, Nóra; Papp, Gábor; Molnár, Judit

The focus of our study was the etiology of obsessive-compulsive disorder from attachment aspects. Our aim was to examine the representations of perceived parental treatment, attachment patterns and the level of emotion regulation of people who suffer from obsessive-compulsive disorder. 223 people participated in our study. The clinical group consisted of 92 persons with obsessive-compulsive symptoms, while the control group involved 131 people without OC symptoms. In the study we used the Young Parenting Inventory, the Relationship Questionnaire, and the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale. Besides we compiled a questionnaire based on the DSM-5 and a demographic questionnaire. Respondents could fill the questionnaires online. The clinical group is characterized by significantly higher toxic frustration of each five basic emotional needs than the control group. Specifically, in the case of people with OC smptoms the toxic parental treatments for Defectiveness/ Shame, Dependence/Incompetence, Enmeshment/Undeveloped self, Entitlement/Grandiosity, Approval-seeking/ Recognition-seeking, Negativity/Pessimism, Emotional inhibition, Unrelenting standards/Hypercriticalness and Punitiveness were significantly more frequent than in the control group. The OC group is also characterized by significantly lower rate of secure attachment style, while dismissive attachment style proved to be the most frequent attachment style among them. The OC group also struggle with significantly higher level of emotion regulation difficulties.

Validation of the exercise and eating disorders questionnaire.

PubMed

Danielsen, Marit; Bjørnelv, Sigrid; Rø, Øyvind

2015-11-01

Compulsive exercise is a well-known feature in eating disorders. The Exercise and Eating Disorder (EED) self-report questionnaire was developed to assess aspects of compulsive exercise not adequately captured by existing instruments. This study aimed to test psychometric properties and the factor structure of the EED among women with eating disorders and a control group. The study included 449 female participants, including 244 eating disorders patients and 205 healthy controls. The patient group consisted of 32.4% (n = 79) AN patients, 23.4% (n = 57) BN, 34.4% (n = 84) EDNOS and 9.8% (n = 24) with BED diagnosis. The analyses confirmed adequate psychometric properties of the EED, with a four-factor solution: (1) compulsive exercise, (2) positive and healthy exercise, (3) awareness of bodily signals, and (4) weight and shape exercise. The EED discriminated significantly (p < .001) between patients and controls on the global score, subscales, and individual items. Test-retest reliability was satisfactory (r = 0.86). Convergent validity was demonstrated by high correlations between the EED and the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q; r = 0.79). The EED is the first clinically derived, self-report questionnaire to assess compulsive exercise among ED patients. The EED offers assessment that has broader clinical utility than existing instruments because it identifies treatment targets and treatment priorities. © 2015 The Authors. International Journal of Eating Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Development and validation of the diabetes adolescent problem solving questionnaire.

PubMed

Mulvaney, Shelagh A; Jaser, Sarah S; Rothman, Russell L; Russell, William E; Pittel, Eric J; Lybarger, Cindy; Wallston, Kenneth A

2014-10-01

Problem solving is a critical diabetes self-management skill. Because of a lack of clinically feasible measures, our aim was to develop and validate a self-report self-management problem solving questionnaire for adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D). A multidisciplinary team of diabetes experts generated questionnaire items that addressed diabetes self-management problem solving. Iterative feedback from parents and adolescents resulted in 27 items. Adolescents from two studies (N=156) aged 13-17 were recruited through a pediatric diabetes clinic and completed measures through an online survey. Glycemic control was measured by HbA1c recorded in the medical record. Empirical elimination of items using principal components analyses resulted in a 13-item unidimensional measure, the diabetes adolescent problem solving questionnaire (DAPSQ) that explained 56% of the variance. The DAPSQ demonstrated internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha=0.92) and was correlated with diabetes self-management (r=0.53, p<.001), self-efficacy (r=0.54, p<.001), and glycemic control (r=-0.24, p<.01). The DAPSQ is a brief instrument for assessment of diabetes self-management problem solving in youth with T1D and is associated with better self-management behaviors and glycemic control. The DAPSQ is a clinically feasible self-report measure that can provide valuable information regarding level of self-management problem solving and guide patient education. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Health, lifestyle, and quality of life for young adults born very preterm.

PubMed

Cooke, R W I

2004-03-01

Children born very preterm and able to attend mainstream schools have been shown to have a high prevalence of behavioural, minor motor, and learning difficulties. It is not clear whether these problems persist into adulthood, impacting on lifestyle and quality of life. A previously studied cohort of very low birth weight infants born between 1980 and 1983, together with term classmate controls, were assessed at age 19-22 years using a postal questionnaire. The questionnaire included the SF-36 to assess quality of life, a social activities scale, a lifestyle questionnaire, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and questions on current height, weight, health, family structure, and education and occupation. Of the 138 preterm and 163 term controls in the cohort, 79 preterm and 71 term returned questionnaires. Quality of life was assessed as similar on six of eight domains of the SF-36. Social activities were also similar. Preterms drank less alcohol, used fewer illicit drugs, but smoked as often. Rates for sexual intercourse were similar, although preterms had more children. Preterms were shorter than controls and were less satisfied with their appearance. They were more likely to use a regular prescription medicine. Fewer were or had been in higher education, and some remained unemployed. The problems experienced by very preterm infants at school appear to influence lifestyle and health, but not perceived quality of life in early adulthood.

Relationship between Perceptions of Control and Victimization of Chinese Adolescents

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zhu, Bi; Lei, Li

2006-01-01

This study explores perceptions of control in victims of school bullying, by surveying 108 adolescents with questionnaires. The result shows that there are significant gender differences in external control in general, internal control of sociality, and victimization of physical bullying. Physical victimization decreases as subjects grow older,…

Patients With Fibromyalgia Have Significant Autonomic Symptoms But Modest Autonomic Dysfunction.

PubMed

Vincent, Ann; Whipple, Mary O; Low, Phillip A; Joyner, Michael; Hoskin, Tanya L

2016-05-01

Research suggests that disordered autonomic function may be one contributor to deconditioning reported in fibromyalgia; however, no study to date has assessed these variables simultaneously with comprehensive measures. To characterize physical fitness and autonomic function with the use of clinically validated measures and subjective questionnaires between patients with fibromyalgia and healthy controls. Cross-sectional, observational, controlled study. Community sample of patients with fibromyalgia and healthy controls. Thirty patients with fibromyalgia and 30 pain and fatigue-free controls. Participants completed a battery of self-report questionnaires and physiological measures, including clinically validated measures of physical fitness and autonomic function. Six-Minute Walk Test total distance, maximal oxygen consumption as assessed by cardiopulmonary exercise testing, total steps using activity monitor, Composite Autonomic Scoring Scale as assessed by Autonomic Reflex Screen, total metabolic equivalents per week using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, and self-reported autonomic symptoms via the 31-item Composite Autonomic Symptom Score questionnaire. Autonomic function, as assessed by self-report, was significantly different between patients and controls (P < .0001); in contrast, the only difference between patients and controls on the Autonomic Reflex Screen was in the adrenergic domain (P = .022), and these abnormalities were mild. Self-reported physical activity was not significantly different between patients and controls (P = .99), but levels of moderate and vigorous physical activity as measured by actigraphy were significantly lower in patients (P = .012 and P = .047, respectively). Exercise capacity (6-Minute Walk) was poorer in patients (P = .0006), but there was no significant difference in maximal volume of oxygen consumption (P = .07). Patients with fibromyalgia report more severe symptoms across all domains, including physical activity and autonomic symptoms, compared with controls, but the objective assessments only showed modest differences. Our results suggest that patients with widespread subjective impairment of function have only modest objective measures of autonomic dysfunction. We recommend that the primary treatment goal should be focused on restoration of function, which may also ameliorate symptoms. Copyright © 2016 American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Patients with Fibromyalgia Have Significant Autonomic Symptoms but Modest Autonomic Dysfunction

PubMed Central

Vincent, Ann; Whipple, Mary O.; Low, Phillip A.; Joyner, Michael; Hoskin, Tanya L.

2015-01-01

Background Research suggests that disordered autonomic function may be one contributor to deconditioning reported in fibromyalgia, however no study to date has simultaneously assessed these variables utilizing comprehensive measures. Objective To characterize physical fitness and autonomic function using clinically validated measures and subjective questionnaires between patients with fibromyalgia and healthy controls. Design Cross-sectional, observational, controlled study Setting Community sample of patients with fibromyalgia and healthy controls Participants 30 patients with fibromyalgia and 30 pain and fatigue-free controls Methods: Participants completed a battery of self-report questionnaires and physiological measures including clinically validated measures of physical fitness and autonomic function. Main Outcome Measurements 6 Minute Walk Test total distance, VO2 max as assessed by cardiopulmonary exercise testing, total steps using activity monitor, Composite Autonomic Scoring Scale as assessed by Autonomic Reflex Screen, total metabolic equivalents per week using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and self-reported autonomic symptoms using the 31-item Composite Autonomic Symptom Score questionnaire. Results Autonomic function, as assessed by self-report, was significantly different between patients and controls (p<.0001); in contrast, the only difference between patients and controls on the Autonomic Reflex Screen was in the adrenergic domain (p=.022), and these abnormalities were mild. Self-reported physical activity was not significantly different between patients and controls (p=.99), but levels of moderate and vigorous physical activity as measured by actigraphy, were significantly lower in patients (p=.012 and p=.047, respectively). Exercise capacity (6 Minute Walk) was poorer in patients (p=.0006), but there was no significant difference in maximal volume of oxygen consumption (p=.07). Conclusions Patients with fibromyalgia report more severe symptoms across all domains including physical activity and autonomic symptoms when compared to controls, but the objective assessments only showed modest differences. Our results suggest that patients with widespread subjective impairment of function have only modest objective measures of autonomic dysfunction. We recommend that the primary treatment goal should be focused on restoration of function which may also ameliorate symptoms. PMID:26314231

Development and validation of a questionnaire to evaluate how a cosmetic product for oily skin is able to improve well-being in women.

PubMed

Segot-Chicq, E; Compan-Zaouati, D; Wolkenstein, P; Consoli, S; Rodary, C; Delvigne, V; Guillou, V; Poli, F

2007-10-01

Skin diseases are known to negatively affect self-image and to have detrimental psychosocial effects. Oily skin is a cosmetic skin problem that women often describe as 'invalidating'. To develop and validate a questionnaire to assess the psychological and psychosocial effects of oily skin condition in women and the outcome of a targeted cosmetic skincare treatment. We developed and validated a concise 18-item questionnaire [oily skin self-image questionnaire (OSSIQ)] to assess perception, behavioural, and emotional consequences associated with oily skin condition. The questionnaire was then used to assess the effects of a skincare treatment for oily skin and compare them with sebum level measurements. The 18-item questionnaire clearly distinguished the oily skin group from the control group. Responsiveness, reliability, and construct validity showed satisfactory performance. The questionnaire provided a relevant assessment of the psychological benefits associated with the skincare programme. The OSSIQ is a valid tool that can be used to monitor the benefits of cosmetic skincare treatments.

Increasing organ donation via anticipated regret (INORDAR): protocol for a randomised controlled trial

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Throughout the world there is an insufficient supply of donor organs to meet the demand for organ transplantations. This paper presents a protocol for a randomised controlled trial, testing whether a simple, theory-based anticipated regret manipulation leads to a significant increase in posthumous organ donor registrations. Methods We will use a between-groups, prospective randomised controlled design. A random sample of 14,520 members of the adult Scottish general public will be contacted via post. These participants will be randomly allocated into 1 of the 4 conditions. The no questionnaire control (NQC) group will simply receive a letter and donor registration form. The questionnaire control (QC) arm will receive a questionnaire measuring their emotions and non-cognitive affective attitudes towards organ donation. The theory of planned behavior (TPB) group will complete the emotions and affective attitudes questionnaire plus additional items assessing their cognitive attitudes towards organ donation, perceived control over registration and how they think significant others view this action. Finally, the anticipated regret (AR) group will complete the same indices as the TPB group, plus two additional anticipated regret items. These items will assess the extent to which the participant anticipates regret for not registering as an organ donor in the near future. The outcome variable will be NHS Blood and Transplant verified registrations as an organ donor within 6 months of receiving our postal intervention. Discussion This study will assess whether simply asking people to reflect on the extent to which they may anticipate regret for not registering as an organ donor increases organ donor registration 6 months later. If successful, this simple and easy to administer theory-based intervention has the potential to save lives and money for the NHS by reducing the number of people receiving treatments such as dialysis. This intervention may also be incorporated into future organ donor campaigns. Trial registration number ISRCTN: ISRCTN92204897 PMID:22401534

Mode Equivalence of Health Indicators Between Data Collection Modes and Mixed-Mode Survey Designs in Population-Based Health Interview Surveys for Children and Adolescents: Methodological Study

PubMed Central

Hoffmann, Robert; Houben, Robin; Krause, Laura; Kamtsiuris, Panagiotis; Gößwald, Antje

2018-01-01

Background The implementation of an Internet option in an existing public health interview survey using a mixed-mode design is attractive because of lower costs and faster data availability. Additionally, mixed-mode surveys can increase response rates and improve sample composition. However, mixed-mode designs can increase the risk of measurement error (mode effects). Objective This study aimed to determine whether the prevalence rates or mean values of self- and parent-reported health indicators for children and adolescents aged 0-17 years differ between self-administered paper-based questionnaires (SAQ-paper) and self-administered Web-based questionnaires (SAQ-Web), as well as between a single-mode control group and different mixed-mode groups. Methods Data were collected for a methodological pilot of the third wave of the "German Health Interview and Examination Survey for Children and Adolescents". Questionnaires were completed by parents or adolescents. A population-based sample of 11,140 children and adolescents aged 0-17 years was randomly allocated to 4 survey designs—a single-mode control group with paper-and-pencil questionnaires only (n=970 parents, n=343 adolescents)—and 3 mixed-mode designs, all of which offered Web-based questionnaire options. In the concurrent mixed-mode design, both questionnaires were offered at the same time (n=946 parents, n=290 adolescents); in the sequential mixed-mode design, the SAQ-Web was sent first, followed by the paper questionnaire along with a reminder (n=854 parents, n=269 adolescents); and in the preselect mixed-mode design, both options were offered and the respondents were asked to request the desired type of questionnaire (n=698 parents, n=292 adolescents). In total, 3468 questionnaires of parents of children aged 0-17 years (SAQ-Web: n=708; SAQ-paper: n=2760) and 1194 questionnaires of adolescents aged 11-17 years (SAQ-Web: n=299; SAQ-paper: n=895) were analyzed. Sociodemographic characteristics and a broad range of health indicators for children and adolescents were compared by survey design and data collection mode by calculating predictive margins from regression models. Results There were no statistically significant differences in sociodemographic characteristics or health indicators between the single-mode control group and any of the mixed-mode survey designs. Differences in sociodemographic characteristics between SAQ-Web and SAQ-paper were found. Web respondents were more likely to be male, have higher levels of education, and higher household income compared with paper respondents. After adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics, only one of the 38 analyzed health indicators showed different prevalence rates between the data collection modes, with a higher prevalence rate for lifetime alcohol consumption among the online-responding adolescents (P<.001). Conclusions These results suggest that mode bias is limited in health interview surveys for children and adolescents using a mixed-mode design with Web-based and paper questionnaires. PMID:29506967

The Diabetes Self-Management Questionnaire (DSMQ): development and evaluation of an instrument to assess diabetes self-care activities associated with glycaemic control.

PubMed

Schmitt, Andreas; Gahr, Annika; Hermanns, Norbert; Kulzer, Bernhard; Huber, Jörg; Haak, Thomas

2013-08-13

Though several questionnaires on self-care and regimen adherence have been introduced, the evaluations do not always report consistent and substantial correlations with measures of glycaemic control. Small ability to explain variance in HbA1c constitutes a significant limitation of an instrument's use for scientific purposes as well as clinical practice. In order to assess self-care activities which can predict glycaemic control, the Diabetes Self-Management Questionnaire (DSMQ) was designed. A 16 item questionnaire to assess self-care activities associated with glycaemic control was developed, based on theoretical considerations and a process of empirical improvements. Four subscales, 'Glucose Management' (GM), 'Dietary Control' (DC), 'Physical Activity' (PA), and 'Health-Care Use' (HU), as well as a 'Sum Scale' (SS) as a global measure of self-care were derived. To evaluate its psychometric quality, 261 patients with type 1 or 2 diabetes were assessed with the DSMQ and an established analogous scale, the Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities Measure (SDSCA). The DSMQ's item and scale characteristics as well as factorial and convergent validity were analysed, and its convergence with HbA1c was compared to the SDSCA. The items showed appropriate characteristics (mean item-total-correlation: 0.46 ± 0.12; mean correlation with HbA1c: -0.23 ± 0.09). Overall internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha) was good (0.84), consistencies of the subscales were acceptable (GM: 0.77; DC: 0.77; PA: 0.76; HU: 0.60). Principal component analysis indicated a four factor structure and confirmed the designed scale structure. Confirmatory factor analysis indicated appropriate fit of the four factor model. The DSMQ scales showed significant convergent correlations with their parallel SDSCA scales (GM: 0.57; DC: 0.52; PA: 0.58; HU: n/a; SS: 0.57) and HbA1c (GM: -0.39; DC: -0.30; PA: -0.15; HU: -0.22; SS: -0.40). All correlations with HbA1c were significantly stronger than those obtained with the SDSCA. This study provides preliminary evidence that the DSMQ is a reliable and valid instrument and enables an efficient assessment of self-care behaviours associated with glycaemic control. The questionnaire should be valuable for scientific analyses as well as clinical use in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes patients.

The development of 'Quality of Life Instrument for Indian Diabetes patients (QOLID): a validation and reliability study in middle and higher income groups.

PubMed

Nagpal, Jitender; Kumar, Arvind; Kakar, Sonia; Bhartia, Abhishek

2010-05-01

To develop a reliable and valid quality of life questionnaire for Indian patients with diabetes. A draft of 75 questions was prepared on the basis of expert opinion, focus group discussions, review of existing literature and detailed semi-structured interviews of patients with diabetes with the intention of including all aspects of diabetes-specific and quality of life considered relevant by patients and care providers to enable constrict validity. A Stage 2 questionnaire was then prepared with 13 domains and 54 items (questions) after expert panel review for obvious irrelevance and duplication of issues. It was administered to 150 participants visiting a diabetes center at New Delhi. Factor analysis was done using principal component method with varimax rotation. Reliability analysis was done by calculating Cronbach's Alpha. For evaluating concordant validity the questionnaire was co-administered with DQL-CTQ to 30 participants. The discriminant validity of the questionnaire was tested using 't' test for metabolic control, co-morbidities, insulin use and gender. Using principal component method 8 domains were identified on the basis of an apriori hypothesis and the scree plot. These 8 domains explained 49.9% of the total variation. 34 items (questions) were selected to represent these domains on the basis of extraction communality, factor loading, inter-item and item-total correlations. The final questionnaire has an Overall Cronbach's Alpha value of 0.894 (subscale- 0.55 to 0.85) showing high internal consistency. The questionnaire showed good concordance (product moment correlation 0.724; p = 0.001; subscale correlation - 0.457 to 0.779) with the DQL-CTQ. The overall standardized questionnaire score showed good responsiveness to metabolic control and co-morbidities establishing discriminant validity. The final version of questionnaire with 8 domains and 34 items is a reliable and valid tool for assessment of quality of life of Indian patients with diabetes.

Evaluation of strategies for increasing response rates to postal questionnaires in quality control of nasal septal surgery.

PubMed

Egeland, Merete T; Tarangen, Magnus; Shiryaeva, Olga; Gay, Caryl; Døsen, Liv K; Haye, Rolf

2017-06-02

Postal questionnaires are often used to assess the results of nasal septoplasty, but response rates vary widely. This study assesses strategies designed to increase the response rate. Postoperative questionnaires using visual analogue scales (VAS) for nasal obstruction were mailed to 160 consecutive patients alternately allocated to one of two groups. Group A received the questionnaire in the usual manner and group B received a modified cover letter with hand-written name and signature and a hand-stamped return envelope. Of the 80 patients in each group, 47 (58.8%) in group A and 54 (67.5%) in group B returned the questionnaire (p = 0.25). There were no age or gender differences between the groups, nor did the pre- and postoperative VAS scores differ between the groups. The strategies used in this study increased the response rate to postal questionnaires by 8.7% points, but this was not a statistically significant or clinically meaningful improvement.

Testing two methods to create comparable scale scores between the Job Content Questionnaire (JCQ) and JCQ-like questionnaires in the European JACE Study.

PubMed

Karasek, Robert; Choi, BongKyoo; Ostergren, Per-Olof; Ferrario, Marco; De Smet, Patrick

2007-01-01

Scale comparative properties of "JCQ-like" questionnaires with respect to the JCQ have been little known. Assessing validity and reliability of two methods for generating comparable scale scores between the Job Content Questionnaire (JCQ) and JCQ-like questionnaires in sub-populations of the large Job Stress, Absenteeism and Coronary Heart Disease European Cooperative (JACE) study: the Swedish version of Demand-Control Questionnaire (DCQ) and a transformed Multinational Monitoring of Trends and Determinants in Cardiovascular Disease Project (MONICA) questionnaire. A random population sample of all Malmo males and females aged 52-58 (n = 682) years was given a new test questionnaire with both instruments (the JCQ and the DCQ). Comparability-facilitating algorithms were created (Method I). For the transformed Milan MONICA questionnaire, a simple weighting system was used (Method II). The converted scale scores from the JCQ-like questionnaires were found to be reliable and highly correlated to those of the original JCQ. However, agreements for the high job strain group between the JCQ and the DCQ, and between the JCQ and the DCQ (Method I applied) were only moderate (Kappa). Use of a multiple level job strain scale generated higher levels of job strain agreement, as did a new job strain definition that excludes the intermediate levels of the job strain distribution. The two methods were valid and generally reliable.

Detection of cases of inflammatory rheumatic disorders: performance of a telephone questionnaire designed for use by patient interviewers

PubMed Central

Guillemin, F; Saraux, A; Fardellone, P; Guggenbuhl, P; Behier, J; Coste, J

2003-01-01

Objective: To assess the performance in the detection of cases of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and the spondyloarthropathies (SpA) of a questionnaire suitable for use in telephone surveys conducted by patient interviewers. Methods: A questionnaire was designed with reference to the signs, symptoms, and epidemiological criteria for RA (ACR 1987) and SpA (ESSG 1991). Three groups of respondents were recruited from the rheumatology outpatient clinics of 10 university hospitals: 235 with RA, 175 with SpA, and 195 controls with other rheumatological disorders. All diagnoses were confirmed by a rheumatologist. Patient from self help groups and social organisations were trained by a polling company professional to conduct a standard telephone interview using the new questionnaire. Results: In an RA-control comparison, logistic regression showed that a set of five items, predominantly ACR criteria, were the most informative. Self reported diagnosis performed best (sensitivity 0.99, specificity 0.87). In an SpA-control comparison, a set of three items from the ESSG criteria were the most informative, with self reported diagnosis again performing best (sensitivity 0.85, specificity 0.96). Overall agreements with clinical diagnoses were 97.7% for RA and 94.4% SpA, dropping to 90.4% and 79.1%, respectively, when self reported diagnosis was excluded. Without self reported diagnosis, questions about peripheral joint and spinal pain made significant contributions to diagnostic performance. Conclusion: A questionnaire in plain language was developed for use in detecting cases of RA and SpA. It performed satisfactorily when administered by patient interviewers and is now available for epidemiological surveys of the general population. PMID:12972474

General practitioners trained in motivational interviewing can positively affect the attitude to behaviour change in people with type 2 diabetes. One year follow-up of an RCT, ADDITION Denmark.

PubMed

Rubak, Sune; Sandbaek, Annelli; Lauritzen, Torsten; Borch-Johnsen, Knut; Christensen, Bo

2009-01-01

To examine whether training GPs in motivational interviewing (MI) can improve type 2 diabetic patients' (1) understanding of diabetes, (2) beliefs regarding prevention and treatment, and (3) motivation for behaviour change. A randomized controlled trial including 65 GPs and 265 type 2 diabetic patients. The GPs were randomized in two groups, one with and one without MI training. Both groups received training in target-driven intensive treatment of type 2 diabetic patients. The intervention was a 1(1/2)-day residential course in MI with (1/2)-day follow-up twice during the first year. The patient data stemmed from previously validated questionnaires. The Health Care Climates Questionnaire assesses the patient-doctor relationship and type of counselling. The Treatment Self-Regulation Questionnaire assesses the degree to which behaviour tends to be self-determined. The Diabetes Illness Representation Questionnaire assesses beliefs and understanding of type 2 diabetes. The Summary of Diabetes Self Care Activities assesses the extent of various self-care activities related to type 2 diabetes. The response rate to our questionnaires was 87%. Patients in the intervention group were significantly more autonomous and motivated in their inclination to change behaviour after one year compared with the patients from the control group. Patients in the intervention group were also significantly more conscious of the importance of controlling their diabetes, and had a significantly better understanding of the possibility of preventing complications. MI improved type 2 patients' understanding of diabetes, their beliefs regarding treatment aspects, their contemplation on and motivation for behaviour change. Whether our results can be sustained long term and are clinically relevant in terms of changes in risk profile advocates further research.

Behavioural, educational and respiratory outcomes of antenatal betamethasone for term caesarean section (ASTECS trial)

PubMed Central

Stutchfield, Peter Roy; Whitaker, Rhiannon; Gliddon, Angela E; Hobson, Lucie; Kotecha, Sailesh; Doull, Iolo J M

2013-01-01

Objectives To determine whether antenatal betamethasone prior to elective term caesarean section (CS) affects long term behavioural, cognitive or developmental outcome, and whether the risk of asthma or atopic disease is reduced. Design A questionnaire based follow-up of a multicentre randomised controlled trial (Antenatal Steroids for Term Elective Caesarean Section, BMJ 2005). Setting Four UK study centres from the original trial. Participants 862 participants from the four largest recruiting centres, 92% of the original study. 824 (96%) were traced and 799 (93%) were successfully contacted. Fifty-one percent (407/799) completed and returned the questionnaire. The children were aged 8–15 years (median 12.2 years, 52% girls). 386 gave consent to contact schools with 352 (91%) reports received. Main outcome measures Questionnaires including a strengths and difficulties questionnaire, International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood, general health and school performance. Results There were no significant differences between children whose mothers received betamethasone and controls for the mean total strengths and difficulties questionnaire scores and subscores for hyperactivity, emotional symptoms, prosocial behaviour, conduct or peer problems. 25 (12%) children whose mothers received betamethasone had reported learning difficulties compared with 27 (14%) control children. The proportion of children who achieved standard assessment tests KS2 exams level 4 or above for mathematics, English or science was similar as were the rates of ever reported wheeze (30% vs 30%), asthma (24% vs 21%), eczema (34% vs 37%) and hay fever (25% vs 27%). Conclusions Antenatal betamethasone did not result in any adverse outcomes or reduction in asthma or atopy. It should be considered for elective CS at 37–38 weeks of gestation. Trial registration: Original trial was preregistration, the trial publication is BMJ. 2005 Sep 24;331(7518):662. PMID:23424017

Motivation and job satisfaction of health workers in a specialized health institution in Serbia.

PubMed

Djordjević, Dragan; Petrović, Dejan; Vuković, Dejana; Mihailović, Dobrivoje; Dimić, Aleksandar

2015-08-01

Health care system is specific for each country, and therefore involves different motivation and job satisfaction factors. The aim of this study was to confirm the validity and applicability of the General Nordic Questionnaire translated into Serbian for analyzing motivation and job satisfaction, as well as to analyze the motivation factors and job satisfaction of health workers at the Institute for Treatment and Rehabilitation "Niska Banja". The General Nordic Questionnaire was translated into Serbian. It included 73 questions (5 answers by the Likert scale), which formed 24 scales. In May, 2012, 196 (82.3%) health workers filled in the questionnaire. A correlation of Ceronbach's alpha values between the Scandinavian study results and the results of Serbian study was statistically significant (r = 0.424; p < 0.05). The lowest Cronbach' alfa coefficient was for the scale "learning demand in job demands" (alpha 0.28). The other scale with no satisfactory reliability was "control of work pacing" (alpha 0.46). Intrinsic motivation positively correlated with all the scales of organizational module, apart from inequality. Within this module, the degree of extrinsic motivation correlated with the support from the superior and coworkers, with fair leadership and human resources primacy. A negative correlation appeared with inequality. The general Nordic Questionnaire can be applied to a great extent to the conditions in our country. Our study shows a low consistency of the scales learning job demands, control of decision, control of work pacing, so the questions in them should be adjusted to the conditions in our country. Extrinsic motivation resulted in higher values than the values of intrinsic motivation in our workers, which is opposite to the results of the original questionnaire.

Getting the Best Return on Your Screening Investment: An Analysis of the Suicidal Ideation Questionnaire and Reynolds Adolescent Depression Scale

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gutierrez, Peter M.; Osman, Augustine

2009-01-01

Data from 64 adolescent inpatients admitted for serious suicidal ideation, 50 adolescent inpatients admitted following a suicide attempt, and 56 randomly selected high school control participants were used to evaluate the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of the Suicidal Ideation Questionnaire (SIQ)…

Psychometric Evaluation of the Children's Behavior Questionnaire-Very Short Form in Preschool Children Using Parent and Teacher Report

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Allan, Nicholas P.; Lonigan, Christopher J.; Wilson, Shauna B.

2013-01-01

Temperament is a developmentally important construct, hierarchically comprised of several lower-order dimensions subsumed under effortful control, negative affectivity, and surgency. The Children's Behavior Questionnaire-Very Short Form (CBQ-VSF) was developed as a brief measure of the higher-order factors of temperament to aid researchers in…

Chocolate consumption is increased in Parkinson's disease. Results from a self-questionnaire study.

PubMed

Wolz, Martin; Kaminsky, Alice; Löhle, Matthias; Koch, Rainer; Storch, Alexander; Reichmann, Heinz

2009-03-01

Clinical observations in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients suggested an increased chocolate consumption. Chocolate contains high contents of various biogenic amines potentially influencing brain monoamine metabolism. 498 PD patients and their partners were evaluated by a structured self-questionnaire asking for consumption of chocolate and non-chocolate sweets, changes in chocolate consumption during the disease course, and depressive symptoms. Questionnaires from 274 patients (55 %) and 234 controls were eligible for further analysis. Consumption of chocolate was significantly higher in PD patients compared to controls, while consumption of non-chocolate sweets was similar in both groups. Our study suggests that chocolate consumption is increased in PD independent of concomitant depressive symptoms measured by BDI-1. Although reasons for increased chocolate consumption in PD remain elusive, it may hypothetically be a consequence of the high content of various biogenic amines and/or caffeine analogues with potential antiparkinsonian effects.

A Follow-Up Psychometric Analysis of the Self-Regulation Questionnaire

PubMed Central

Neal, Dan J.; Carey, Kate B.

2008-01-01

Self-regulation skills, which subsume goal-directed behavior and short-term delay of gratification for long-term gains, have been shown to be differentially related to alcohol consumption and alcohol-related consequences. Brown, Miller, and Lawendowksi (1999) described the Self-Regulation Questionnaire (SRQ), and Carey, Neal, and Collins (2004) provided preliminary psychometric evidence for the SRQ and proposed a short version (SSRQ) of the measure. The goals of this study were to further examine the psychometric properties of the SSRQ. Participants (N = 237) were recruited from an introductory psychology course, and completed a questionnaire packet which included the SSRQ. Factor analyses indicated that the SSRQ showed two distinct factors, an impulse control factor and a goal-setting factor. Validity evidence showed differential patterns of relationships between these two subscales and measures of self-control, alcohol use, and alcohol-related consequences. PMID:16366813

Sleep Promotion Program for Improving Sleep Behaviors in Adolescents: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study

PubMed Central

John, Bindu; Bellipady, Sumanth Shetty; Bhat, Shrinivasa Undaru

2016-01-01

Aims. The purpose of this pilot trial was to determine the efficacy of sleep promotion program to adapt it for the use of adolescents studying in various schools of Mangalore, India, and evaluate the feasibility issues before conducting a randomized controlled trial in a larger sample of adolescents. Methods. A randomized controlled trial design with stratified random sampling method was used. Fifty-eight adolescents were selected (mean age: 14.02 ± 2.15 years; intervention group, n = 34; control group, n = 24). Self-report questionnaires, including sociodemographic questionnaire with some additional questions on sleep and activities, Sleep Hygiene Index, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, The Cleveland Adolescent Sleepiness Questionnaire, and PedsQL™ Present Functioning Visual Analogue Scale, were used. Results. Insufficient weekday-weekend sleep duration with increasing age of adolescents was observed. The program revealed a significant effect in the experimental group over the control group in overall sleep quality, sleep onset latency, sleep duration, daytime sleepiness, and emotional and overall distress. No significant effect was observed in sleep hygiene and other sleep parameters. All target variables showed significant correlations with each other. Conclusion. The intervention holds a promise for improving the sleep behaviors in healthy adolescents. However, the effect of the sleep promotion program treatment has yet to be proven through a future research. This trial is registered with ISRCTN13083118. PMID:27088040

Impaired work performance among women with symptomatic uterine fibroids.

PubMed

Lerner, Debra; Mirza, Fadi G; Mirza, Fadi; Chang, Hong; Renzulli, Karen; Perch, Katherine; Chelmow, David

2008-10-01

To assess the work impact of symptomatic uterine fibroids (UFs). A cohort study compared 58 employed women with symptomatic UFs to 56 healthy controls. Data sources included a self-administered mail questionnaire and medical charts. At-work performance limitations and productivity loss were measured with the Work Limitations Questionnaire. Univariate and multivariate case-control group differences were tested. Based on adjusted mean scores, the UF group had significantly more at-work limitations and productivity loss than controls, while absence rates were similar. The UF group's performance was impaired 18% of the time on average versus 8% for controls (P-values, 0.005-0.040). At-work limitations were explained by depression symptoms, Non-White race/ethnicity, and poorer health-related quality of life. Fibroids and related symptoms impose a burden on the working lives' of women, their employers, and the economy.

Children's Self-Regulation and School Achievement in Cultural Contexts: The Role of Maternal Restrictive Control

PubMed Central

Weis, Mirjam; Trommsdorff, Gisela; Muñoz, Lorena

2016-01-01

Self-regulation can be developed through parent-child interactions and has been related to developmental outcomes, e.g., such as educational achievement. This study examined cross-cultural differences and similarities in maternal restrictive control, self-regulation (i.e., behavior and emotion regulation) and school achievement and relations among these variables in Germany and Chile. Seventy-six German and 167 Chilean fourth graders, their mothers, and their teachers participated. Mothers and teachers rated children's behavior regulation with a subscale of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Children reported their use of emotion regulation strategies on the Questionnaire for the Measurement of Stress and Coping. Mothers rated maternal restrictive control by answering the Parenting Practice Questionnaire. School achievement was assessed by grades for language and mathematics. Results showed higher behavior regulation of German children in comparison to Chilean children and a higher preference of restrictive parental control in Chilean mothers than in German mothers. Regression analyses revealed positive relations between children's behavior regulation and school achievement in Germany and in Chile. Further, in both cultural contexts, maternal restrictive control was related negatively to behavior regulation and positively to anger-oriented emotion regulation. In sum, the study showed the central function of behavior regulation for school achievement underlining negative relations of maternal restrictive control with children's self-regulation and school achievement in diverse cultural contexts. Culturally adapted interventions related to parenting practices to promote children's behavior regulation may assist in also promoting children's school achievement. PMID:27303318

Development and validity of a questionnaire to test the knowledge of primary care personnel regarding nutrition in obese adolescents

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background In light of its epidemic proportions in developed and developing countries, obesity is considered a serious public health issue. In order to increase knowledge concerning the ability of health care professionals in caring for obese adolescents and adopt more efficient preventive and control measures, a questionnaire was developed and validated to assess non-dietitian health professionals regarding their Knowledge of Nutrition in Obese Adolescents (KNOA). Methods The development and evaluation of a questionnaire to assess the knowledge of primary care practitioners with respect to nutrition in obese adolescents was carried out in five phases, as follows: 1) definition of study dimensions 2) development of 42 questions and preliminary evaluation of the questionnaire by a panel of experts; 3) characterization and selection of primary care practitioners (35 dietitians and 265 non-dietitians) and measurement of questionnaire criteria by contrasting the responses of dietitians and non-dietitians; 4) reliability assessment by question exclusion based on item difficulty (too easy and too difficult for non-dietitian practitioners), item discrimination, internal consistency and reproducibility index determination; and 5) scoring the completed questionnaires. Results Dietitians obtained higher scores than non-dietitians (Mann–Whitney U test, P < 0.05), confirming the validity of the questionnaire criteria. Items were discriminated by correlating the score for each item with the total score, using a minimum of 0.2 as a correlation coefficient cutoff value. Item difficulty was controlled by excluding questions answered correctly by more than 90% of the non-dietitian subjects (too easy) or by less than 10% of them (too difficult). The final questionnaire contained 26 of the original 42 questions, increasing Cronbach’s α value from 0.788 to 0.807. Test-retest agreement between respondents was classified as good to very good (Kappa test, >0.60). Conclusion The KNOA questionnaire developed for primary care practitioners is a valid, consistent and suitable instrument that can be applied over time, making it a promising tool for developing and guiding public health policies. PMID:23865564

Long-term follow-up of children who underwent severe hypospadias repair using an online survey with validated questionnaires.

PubMed

Fraumann, Sarah A; Stephany, Heidi A; Clayton, Douglass B; Thomas, John C; Pope, John C; Adams, Mark C; Brock, John W; Tanaka, Stacy T

2014-06-01

Few studies of hypospadias repair in childhood have used validated questionnaires to investigate outcomes of cosmesis, urinary function, and sexual function in adulthood. We sought to investigate long-term outcomes in adult patients who had undergone severe hypospadias repair as children using an existing web-based application available to multiple institutions in order to develop an online patient survey of previously validated questionnaires. Patients aged 18 years or older who underwent severe hypospadias repair between 1992 and 1997 at our institution were contacted to complete an online survey. Through medical chart reviews, we analyzed the location of meatus, type of repair, and complications. The online survey included questions about penile appearance, and validated questionnaires to assess urinary and sexual function. Of 58 patients who met the inclusion criteria, we contacted 19, and 13 completed the survey. Fifty-nine percent had complications, with an average of 2.2 procedures per patient. Most (85.0%) were satisfied with penile appearance, although 38.0% had residual penile curvature. Hypospadias patients had mean lower orgasmic function than normal controls. Mean scores for urinary function and other domains of sexual function were similar to normal controls. Although the majority of adult patients were satisfied with the outcomes of penile appearance, urinary function, and sexual function, our online survey suggests decreased lower orgasmic function as measured by validated questionnaire. An online survey accessible to multiple institutions with validated questionnaires may facilitate assessment of long-term hypospadias results. Copyright © 2014 Journal of Pediatric Urology Company. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Chinese translation and validation of a parental feeding style questionnaire for parents of Hong Kong preschoolers.

PubMed

Tam, Wilson; Keung, Vera; Lee, Albert; Lo, Kenneth; Cheung, Calvin

2014-11-21

Childhood obesity is a major public health issue in many countries, including China. The importance of parenting relative to the healthy development of children requires the development of instruments for assessing parental influence on child dietary pattern. This study aimed to confirm the internal reliability and validity of a self-report measure on parental feeding styles, including emotional feeding, instrumental feeding, prompting or encouragement to eat, and control over eating. A 27-item parental feeding style questionnaire (PFSQ) was translated into Chinese and then translated back into English to verify consistency. The questionnaire was then used to conduct a cross-sectional survey on the parents of Hong Kong preschoolers. The internal reliability and validity of the questionnaire were examined by Cronbach's alpha and exploratory factor analysis, respectively. 4,553 completed questionnaires were received. Cronbach's alpha of subscales ranged from 0.63 to 0.81, and the overall reliability was good (alpha = 0.75). The factor structure of this questionnaire was similar to that of the original and Turkish versions. One-factor structure was identified for emotional feeding, instrumental feeding (four items), and prompting or encouragement to eat, whereas a two-factor structure was revealed for control over eating. The Chinese version of the PFSQ has good reliability and validity in assessing parental feeding styles in Hong Kong. Researchers can use this instrument to improve their understanding on how parental feeding styles may affect the dietary patterns and ultimately the weight statuses of children among Chinese-speaking populations across different countries.

The extent and characteristics of United Kingdom hospital pharmacists keeping, or not keeping, a professional development portfolio.

PubMed

Kostrzewski, Andrzej J; Dhillon, Soraya; Goodsman, Danë; Taylor, Kevin M G; Weinman, John A

2009-10-01

The aim of this study was to examine the use of continuing professional development (CPD) portfolios by hospital pharmacists. The objectives were to assess the extent to which pharmacists use portfolios in CPD and to examine the attitudes/beliefs which differentiate those who do and do not keep a portfolio. Participants completed two questionnaires: (1) personality traits were examined using the Big-Five questionnaire and (2) a new Pharmacist Portfolio-Engaging Behaviour Questionnaire (PPEBQ) examined the attitudes and beliefs. What constitutes a portfolio was left to the interpretation of the participants, but it was specified that the survey was about participants' views of producing written records of their professional practice for CPD. The setting was hospital pharmacists based in the London area in December 2004. Overall, 134 pharmacists (78%) returned both questionnaires, and 80 stated that they kept a portfolio and 52 stated that they did not (two questionnaires were returned spoilt). There was no significant difference in the age or number of years qualified between those with and without a portfolio. Three personality traits were linked to keeping a portfolio (conscientiousness, agreeableness and emotional stability). Pharmacists with a portfolio scored highly on the perceived behavioural control and behavioural intention scales of the PPEBQ. The Big-Five personality questionnaire is a useful tool to investigate pharmacists' use of a portfolio. Results of the PPEBQ suggested that hospital pharmacists who had a portfolio were concerned with having control over its production. However, the PPEBQ requires further development to improve its reliability. These findings have implications for the educational support of CPD.

Task-Based and Questionnaire Measures of Inhibitory Control Are Differentially Affected by Acute Food Restriction and by Motivationally Salient Food Stimuli in Healthy Adults

PubMed Central

Bartholdy, Savani; Cheng, Jiumu; Schmidt, Ulrike; Campbell, Iain C.; O'Daly, Owen G.

2016-01-01

Adaptive eating behaviors are dependent on an interaction between motivational states (e.g., hunger) and the ability to control one's own behavior (inhibitory control). Indeed, behavioral paradigms are emerging that seek to train inhibitory control to improve eating behavior. However, inhibitory control is a multifaceted concept, and it is not yet clear how different types (e.g., reactive motor inhibition, proactive motor inhibition, reward-related inhibition) are affected by hunger. Such knowledge will provide insight into the contexts in which behavioral training paradigms would be most effective. The present study explored the impact of promoting a “need” state (hunger) together with motivationally salient distracting stimuli (food/non-food images) on inhibitory control in 46 healthy adults. Participants attended two study sessions, once after eating breakfast as usual and once after acute food restriction on the morning of the session. In each session, participants completed questionnaires on hunger, mood and inhibitory control, and undertook task-based measures of inhibitory control, and had physiological measurements (height, weight, and blood glucose) obtained by a researcher. Acute food restriction influenced task-based assessments but not questionnaire measures of inhibitory control, suggesting that hunger affects observable behavioral control but not self-reported inhibitory control. After acute food restriction, participants showed greater temporal discounting (devaluation of future rewards), and subjective hunger and these were inversely correlated with stop accuracy on the stop signal task. Finally, participants generally responded faster when food-related distractor images were presented, compared to non-food images, independent of state. This suggests that although food stimuli motivate approach behavior, stimulus relevance does not impact inhibitory control in healthy individuals, nor interact with motivational state. These findings may provide some explanation for poorer inhibitory control often reported in studies of individuals who practice restraint over eating. PMID:27621720

Impact of rheumatic diseases on oral health and quality of life.

PubMed

Ahola, K; Saarinen, A; Kuuliala, A; Leirisalo-Repo, M; Murtomaa, H; Meurman, J H

2015-04-01

We investigated the effects of rheumatic diseases on oral symptoms, health habits, and quality of life in subjects with and without rheumatic diseases. The hypothesis was that patients with rheumatic diseases have more oral symptoms impairing their quality of life than healthy controls. A questionnaire was mailed to a random sample of 1500 members of the Finnish Rheumatism Association, including those with and without rheumatic diseases. We focused on symptoms of the mouth and temporomandibular area, and health habits. Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP14) was used to evaluate the oral health-related quality of life. We analyzed differences between subjects with and without rheumatic diseases, controlled for age, gender, smoking, and non-rheumatic chronic diseases. Completed questionnaires were received from 995 participants (response rate 66%). Of them, 564 reported rheumatic disease, 431 were used as controls. The patients reported significantly more all orofacial symptoms than controls. Severe dry mouth was reported by 19.6% of patients and 2.9% of controls (P < 0.001), and temporomandibular joint symptoms by 59.2% and 27.2% (P < 0.001), respectively. In the OHIP-14 questionnaire, the mean total score was significantly higher in patients (8.80 ± 11.15) than in controls (3.93 ± 6.60; P < 0.001). The study hypothesis was confirmed by showing that the patients with rheumatic diseases reported oral discomfort and reduced quality of life more often when compared with controls. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Perception of cancer patients of their disease, self-efficacy and locus of control and usage of complementary and alternative medicine.

PubMed

Ebel, Marie-Desirée; Rudolph, Ivonne; Keinki, Christian; Hoppe, Andrea; Muecke, Ralph; Micke, Oliver; Muenstedt, Karsten; Huebner, Jutta

2015-08-01

A high percentage of cancer patients use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). The aim of our study was to learn more about the association of CAM usage, information needs, perceived impact of disease, locus of control and self-efficacy of cancer patients. We asked patients attending a series of lectures on CAM using a standardized questionnaire which integrated questions on information needs, CAM and validated short questionnaires on self-efficacy, perception of the disease and locus of control of reinforcement. One hundred and eighty-five patients answered the questionnaire, from whom 45 % used CAM. Sixty percentage disclosed using CAM to the general practitioner and 57 % to the oncologist. Physicians and nurses, print media and the Internet are the most important source of information on CAM (used by 20-25 % each). Impact on neither daily life, perceived personal control nor coherence was associated with CAM usage, disclosure to physicians or sources of information. There also was no association between CAM usage and self-efficacy. In contrast, there was a significant association between CAM user rate and a high external locus of control. While CAM usage is agreed upon by many physicians due to the idea that it helps patients to become active and feel more in control of the disease, our data are in favor of the contrary. A strong perception of external locus of control seems to be a driver of CAM usage. Physicians should be aware of this association when counseling on CAM.

Executive Control Mediates the Association Between Aerobic Fitness and Emotion Regulation in Preadolescent Children.

PubMed

Lott, Mark A; Jensen, Chad D

2017-03-01

This study evaluated direct and indirect associations between aerobic fitness, executive control, and emotion regulation among a community sample of preadolescent children. Two-hundred and seventy-eight children aged 8-12 years completed measures of aerobic fitness (Progressive Aerobic Cardiovascular Endurance Run) and executive control (Stroop Test). Parents completed questionnaires assessing child emotion regulation and executive control (Emotion Regulation Checklist; Early Adolescent Temperament Questionnaire). We evaluated associations between these constructs using structural equation modeling. Study findings supported a moderate direct association between childhood aerobic fitness and executive control, a strong direct negative association between executive control and emotion regulation, and a moderate indirect association between aerobic fitness and emotion regulation through executive control. These findings provide preliminary evidence that executive control functions as a mediator between aerobic fitness and emotion regulation and may help explain the mechanism by which aerobic exercise influences emotional well-being among preadolescent children. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society of Pediatric Psychology. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com

Treatment efficacy of virtual reality distraction in the reduction of pain and anxiety during cystoscopy.

PubMed

Walker, Marc R; Kallingal, George J S; Musser, John E; Folen, Raymond; Stetz, Melba C; Clark, Joseph Y

2014-08-01

Assessment of virtual reality (VR) distraction for alleviating pain and anxiety during flexible cystoscopy. Cystoscopy is a common ambulatory procedure performed in Urology and can be associated with moderate pain and anxiety. Sophisticated distraction techniques are not used with cystoscopy and VR has not been studied for this procedure. We designed a prospective, randomized, controlled trial assessing the efficacy of VR for alleviating pain and anxiety during flexible cystoscopy. Adult men referred for cystoscopy were randomized into a control or VR group. Subjects were given preprocedure and postprocedure questionnaires addressing anxiety, pain, and time spent thinking about pain. Vitals signs and galvanic skin monitors were used as objective measures. The control group underwent routine cystoscopy and the VR group underwent cystoscopy with VR. Physicians answered a postprocedure questionnaire assessing the difficulty of the exam. All questionnaires used a visual analog score for assessment. 23 patients enrolled in the control group and 22 in the VR group. Mean scores and Student's t-test were employed to analyze the data. No data endpoints showed a statistically significant difference between the 2 groups. We concluded no benefit to VR distraction mitigating pain in male patients during cystoscopy. Reprint & Copyright © 2014 Association of Military Surgeons of the U.S.

Accelerometry is associated with walking mobility, not physical activity, in persons with multiple sclerosis.

PubMed

Weikert, Madeline; Suh, Yoojin; Lane, Abbi; Sandroff, Brian; Dlugonski, Deirdre; Fernhall, Bo; Motl, Robert W

2012-06-01

Accelerometers are seemingly a criterion standard of real-life walking mobility and this is supported by assumptions and empirical data. This application would be strengthened by including objective measures of walking mobility along with a matched control sample for verifying specificity versus generality in accelerometer output. We compared associations among accelerometer output, walking mobility, and physical activity between persons with multiple sclerosis (MS) and controls without a neurological disorder. Sixty-six persons (33 MS, 33 matched controls) completed a battery of questionnaires, performed the six-minute walk (6MW) and timed-up-and-go (TUG), and wore an accelerometer for a 7-day period. After this period, participants completed the Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire (GLTEQ) and International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Accelerometer output was significantly correlated with only mobility measures (6MW, ρ=.78; TUG, ρ=-.68) in MS, whereas it correlated with both mobility (6MW, ρ=.58; TUG, ρ=-.49) and physical activity (GLTEQ, ρ=.56; IPAQ, ρ=.53) measures in controls. Regression analysis indicated that only 6MW explained variance in accelerometer output in MS (β=.65, R(2)=.43). These findings support the possibility that accelerometers primarily and specifically measure real-life walking mobility, not physical activity, in persons with MS. Copyright © 2011 IPEM. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Analysis of residual symptoms after treatment in benign paroxysmal positional vertigo using questionnaire.

PubMed

Lee, No Hee; Kwon, Hee Jun; Ban, Jae Ho

2009-08-01

Canalith repositioning procedure (CRP) provides rapid and long-lasting relief of symptoms in most patients with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. However, some patients express nonspecific symptoms such as anxiety or discomfort after treatment, even after the disappearance of nystagmus and vertigo. The purpose of this study was to assess the residual symptoms after CRP in patients with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo using the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) in a questionnaire format. Controlled, prospective study. CRP was performed in 135 patients until nystagmus and vertigo disappeared. Patients were asked to complete the questionnaire before and 5 to 7 days after treatment. A control group of 135 normal volunteers was selected and cross-matched according to the age and sex of the patient group. The data were compared for the pre-CRP, post-CRP, and control groups. There was a significant improvement in the DHI scores when comparing the pre- and post-CRP groups (P=0.000), although six items showed incomplete improvement. Subsequent comparison of DHI scores between the control group and the post-CRP group still showed a difference in some items so that the improvement was incomplete. Even after successful CRPs, Dizziness Handicap Inventory scores indicated that residual subjective symptoms may remain. Thus, additional follow-up and management are important for these patients.

Exposure reduces negative bias in self-rated performance in public speaking fearful participants.

PubMed

Cheng, Joyce; Niles, Andrea N; Craske, Michelle G

2017-03-01

Individuals with public speaking anxiety (PSA) under-rate their performance compared to objective observers. The present study examined whether exposure reduces the discrepancy between self and observer performance ratings and improved observer-rated performance in individuals with PSA. PSA participants gave a speech in front of a small audience and rated their performance using a questionnaire before and after completing repeated exposures to public speaking. Non-anxious control participants gave a speech and completed the questionnaire one time only. Objective observers watched videos of the speeches and rated performance using the same questionnaire. PSA participants underrated their performance to a greater degree than did controls prior to exposure, but also performed significantly more poorly than did controls when rated objectively. Bias significantly decreased and objective-rated performance significantly increased following completion of exposure in PSA participants, and on one performance measure, anxious participants no longer showed a greater discrepancy between self and observer performance ratings compared to controls. The study employed non-clinical student sample, but the results should be replicated in clinical anxiety samples. These findings indicate that exposure alone significantly reduces negative performance bias among PSA individuals, but additional exposure or additional interventions may be necessary to fully correct bias and performance deficits. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Early Maladaptive Schemas and Cognitive Distortions in Adults with Morbid Obesity: Relationships with Mental Health Status

PubMed Central

da Luz, Felipe Q.; Sainsbury, Amanda; Hay, Phillipa; Roekenes, Jessica A.; Swinbourne, Jessica; da Silva, Dhiordan C.; da S. Oliveira, Margareth

2017-01-01

Dysfunctional cognitions may be associated with unhealthy eating behaviors seen in individuals with obesity. However, dysfunctional cognitions commonly occur in individuals with poor mental health independently of weight. We examined whether individuals with morbid obesity differed with regard to dysfunctional cognitions when compared to individuals of normal weight, when mental health status was controlled for. 111 participants—53 with morbid obesity and 58 of normal weight—were assessed with the Mini-Mental State Examination, Young Schema Questionnaire, Cognitive Distortions Questionnaire, Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale, and a Demographic and Clinical Questionnaire. Participants with morbid obesity showed higher scores in one (insufficient self-control/self-discipline) of 15 early maladaptive schemas and in one (labeling) of 15 cognitive distortions compared to participants of normal weight. The difference between groups for insufficient self-control/self-discipline was not significant when mental health status was controlled for. Participants with morbid obesity showed more severe anxiety than participants of normal weight. Our findings did not show clinically meaningful differences in dysfunctional cognitions between participants with morbid obesity or of normal weight. Dysfunctional cognitions presented by individuals with morbid obesity are likely related to their individual mental health and not to their weight. PMID:28264484

Negative Emotions in Migraineurs Dreams: The Increased Prevalence of Oneiric Fear and Anguish, Unrelated to Mood Disorders

PubMed Central

De Angeli, F.; Lovati, C.; Giani, L.; Mariotti D'Alessandro, C.; Raimondi, E.; Scaglione, V.; Castoldi, D.; Capiluppi, E.; Mariani, C.

2014-01-01

Background. Migraineurs brain has shown some functional peculiarities that reflect not only in phonophobia, and photophobia, but also in mood and sleep. Dreaming is a universal mental state characterized by hallucinatory features in which imagery, emotion, motor skills, and memory are created de novo. We evaluated dream contents and associated emotions in migraineurs. Materials and Methods. 412 subjects: 219 controls; and 148 migraineurs (66 with aura, MA; 82 without aura, MO), and 45 tension type headache patients (TTH). A semistructured retrospective self-reported questionnaire was used to evaluate dreams. The Generalized Anxiety Disorder Questionnaire (GAD-7), and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) were administered to evaluate anxiety and depression. Results. Migraineurs showed increased levels of anxiety (P = 0.0002 for MA versus controls, P = 0.004 for MO versus controls). Fear and anguish during dreaming were more frequently reported by migraine patients compared to controls, independently by anxiety and depression scores. Discussion. The brain of migraineurs seems to dream with some peculiar features, all with a negative connotation, as fear and anguish. It may be due to the recorded negative sensations induced by recurrent migraine pain, but it may just reflect a peculiar attitude of the mesolimbic structures of migraineurs brain, activated in both dreaming and migraine attacks. PMID:25049452

PP-2 ABNORMAL PERSONALITY TRAITS IN CHILDREN WITH AEROPHAGIA.

PubMed

Devanarayana, Niranga Manjuri; Jayawickrama, Nirodha; Gulegoda, Ishani Chathurika; Rajindrajith, Shaman

2015-10-01

The main objective of this study is to study the personality types in children with aerophagia. A cross sectional survey was conducted in 8 randomly selected schools in 4 randomly selected provinces Sri Lanka. From each school, all cchildren aged 13-18 years were selected after obtaining written consent from parents, school administration and provincial education office. Assent was obtained from all children recruited. Date were collected using a self-administered questionnaire administered under examination setting to ensure confidentiality and privacy. Questionnaire contained previously translated and validated Rome III questionnaire for functional gastrointestinal diseases (self-administered form for children above 10 years) and childhood personality assessment questionnaire. Trained research assistants were present during filling the questionnaire to provide assistance and to verify doubts. Aerophagia was defined using the Rome III criteria. Severities of individual symptoms were recorded in 100 mm visual analogue scale. A total of 1069 questionnaires were distributed and all of them were returned and included in analysis [males 508 (47.5%), mean age 15.3 years, SD 1.8 years years]. One hundred and thirty six (12.7%) fulfilled Rome III criteria for aerophagia and 933 children without aerophagia were considered as controls. Nineteen (13.8%) children with aerophagia and 71 (7.6%) controls had personality scores above the international cut-off value (105) for abnormal personality (p = 0.01). Children with aerophagia had significantly higher scores for different personality traits than controls; including hostility and aggression (13.2 vs. 12.2 in controls, p = 0.006), negative self-esteem (11.0 vs. 9.9, p < 0.0001), negative self-adequacy (10.6 vs. 9.6, p = 0.001), emotional unresponsiveness (10.5 vs. 9.6, p < 0.0001), emotional instability (16.9 vs. 15.7, p < 0.001), negative world view (10.9 vs. 10.1, p = 0.02) and total personality score (92.1 vs. 87.7, p = 001). In children with aerophagia, scores obtained for severity of bloating correlated with scores obtained for hostility and aggression (r = 0.22, p = 0.02). Children with aerophagia has abnormal personality traits and this fact may at least partly responsible for development and perpetuation of symptoms in them.

Development of the Comprehensive General Parenting Questionnaire for caregivers of 5-13 year olds

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Despite the large number of parenting questionnaires, considerable disagreement exists about how to best assess parenting. Most of the instruments only assess limited aspects of parenting. To overcome this shortcoming, the “Comprehensive General Parenting Questionnaire” (CGPQ) was systematically developed. Such a measure is frequently requested in the area of childhood overweight. Methods First, an item bank of existing parenting measures was created assessing five key parenting constructs that have been identified across multiple theoretical approaches to parenting (Nurturance, Overprotection, Coercive control, Behavioral control, and Structure). Caregivers of 5- to 13-year-olds were asked to complete the online survey in the Netherlands (N = 821), Belgium (N = 435) and the United States (N = 241). In addition, a questionnaire regarding personality characteristics (“Big Five”) of the caregiver was administered and parents were asked to report about their child’s height and weight. Factor analyses and Item-Response Modeling (IRM) techniques were used to assess the underlying parenting constructs and for item reduction. Correlation analyses were performed to assess the relations between general parenting and personality of the caregivers, adjusting for socio-economic status (SES) indicators, to establish criterion validity. Multivariate linear regressions were performed to examine the associations of SES indicators and parenting with child BMI z-scores. Additionally, we assessed whether scores on the parenting constructs and child BMI z-scores differed depending on SES indicators. Results The reduced questionnaire (62 items) revealed acceptable fit of our parenting model and acceptable IRM item fit statistics. Caregiver personality was related as hypothesized with the GCPQ parenting constructs. While correcting for SES, overprotection was positively related to child BMI. The negative relationship between structure and BMI was borderline significant. Parents with a high level of education were less likely to use overly forms of controlling parenting (i.e., coercive control and overprotection) and more likely to have children with lower BMI. Based on several author review meetings and cognitive interviews the questionnaire was further modified to an 85-item questionnaire. Conclusions The GCPQ may facilitate research exploring how parenting influences children’s weight-related behaviors. The contextual influence of general parenting is likely to be more profound than its direct relationship with weight status. PMID:24512450

Improved usability of a multi-infusion setup using a centralized control interface: A task-based usability test

PubMed Central

Cnossen, Fokie; Dieperink, Willem; Bult, Wouter; de Smet, Anne Marie; Touw, Daan J.; Nijsten, Maarten W.

2017-01-01

The objective of this study was to assess the usability benefits of adding a bedside central control interface that controls all intravenous (IV) infusion pumps compared to the conventional individual control of multiple infusion pumps. Eighteen dedicated ICU nurses volunteered in a between-subjects task-based usability test. A newly developed central control interface was compared to conventional control of multiple infusion pumps in a simulated ICU setting. Task execution time, clicks, errors and questionnaire responses were evaluated. Overall the central control interface outperformed the conventional control in terms of fewer user actions (40±3 vs. 73±20 clicks, p<0.001) and fewer user errors (1±1 vs. 3±2 errors, p<0.05), with no difference in task execution times (421±108 vs. 406±119 seconds, not significant). Questionnaires indicated a significant preference for the central control interface. Despite being novice users of the central control interface, ICU nurses displayed improved performance with the central control interface compared to the conventional interface they were familiar with. We conclude that the new user interface has an overall better usability than the conventional interface. PMID:28800617

Improved usability of a multi-infusion setup using a centralized control interface: A task-based usability test.

PubMed

Doesburg, Frank; Cnossen, Fokie; Dieperink, Willem; Bult, Wouter; de Smet, Anne Marie; Touw, Daan J; Nijsten, Maarten W

2017-01-01

The objective of this study was to assess the usability benefits of adding a bedside central control interface that controls all intravenous (IV) infusion pumps compared to the conventional individual control of multiple infusion pumps. Eighteen dedicated ICU nurses volunteered in a between-subjects task-based usability test. A newly developed central control interface was compared to conventional control of multiple infusion pumps in a simulated ICU setting. Task execution time, clicks, errors and questionnaire responses were evaluated. Overall the central control interface outperformed the conventional control in terms of fewer user actions (40±3 vs. 73±20 clicks, p<0.001) and fewer user errors (1±1 vs. 3±2 errors, p<0.05), with no difference in task execution times (421±108 vs. 406±119 seconds, not significant). Questionnaires indicated a significant preference for the central control interface. Despite being novice users of the central control interface, ICU nurses displayed improved performance with the central control interface compared to the conventional interface they were familiar with. We conclude that the new user interface has an overall better usability than the conventional interface.

Comprehension of confidence intervals - development and piloting of patient information materials for people with multiple sclerosis: qualitative study and pilot randomised controlled trial.

PubMed

Rahn, Anne C; Backhus, Imke; Fuest, Franz; Riemann-Lorenz, Karin; Köpke, Sascha; van de Roemer, Adrianus; Mühlhauser, Ingrid; Heesen, Christoph

2016-09-20

Presentation of confidence intervals alongside information about treatment effects can support informed treatment choices in people with multiple sclerosis. We aimed to develop and pilot-test different written patient information materials explaining confidence intervals in people with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. Further, a questionnaire on comprehension of confidence intervals was developed and piloted. We developed different patient information versions aiming to explain confidence intervals. We used an illustrative example to test three different approaches: (1) short version, (2) "average weight" version and (3) "worm prophylaxis" version. Interviews were conducted using think-aloud and teach-back approaches to test feasibility and analysed using qualitative content analysis. To assess comprehension of confidence intervals, a six-item multiple choice questionnaire was developed and tested in a pilot randomised controlled trial using the online survey software UNIPARK. Here, the average weight version (intervention group) was tested against a standard patient information version on confidence intervals (control group). People with multiple sclerosis were invited to take part using existing mailing-lists of people with multiple sclerosis in Germany and were randomised using the UNIPARK algorithm. Participants were blinded towards group allocation. Primary endpoint was comprehension of confidence intervals, assessed with the six-item multiple choice questionnaire with six points representing perfect knowledge. Feasibility of the patient information versions was tested with 16 people with multiple sclerosis. For the pilot randomised controlled trial, 64 people with multiple sclerosis were randomised (intervention group: n = 36; control group: n = 28). More questions were answered correctly in the intervention group compared to the control group (mean 4.8 vs 3.8, mean difference 1.1 (95 % CI 0.42-1.69), p = 0.002). The questionnaire's internal consistency was moderate (Cronbach's alpha = 0.56). The pilot-phase shows promising results concerning acceptability and feasibility. Pilot randomised controlled trial results indicate that the patient information is well understood and that knowledge gain on confidence intervals can be assessed with a set of six questions. German Clinical Trials Register: DRKS00008561 . Registered 8th of June 2015.

Progress and Trends in AIE-Based Bioprobes: A Brief Overview.

PubMed

Mei, Ju; Huang, Youhong; Tian, He

2018-04-18

Luminescent bioprobes are powerful analytical means for biosensing and optical imaging. Luminogens featured with aggregation-induced emission (AIE) attributes have emerged as ideal building blocks for high-performance bioprobes. Bioprobes constructed with AIE luminogens have been identified to be a novel class of FL light-up probing tools. In contrast to conventional bioprobes based on the luminophores with aggregation-caused quenching (ACQ) effect, the AIE-based bioprobes enjoy diverse superiorities, such as lower background, higher signal-to-noise ratio and sensitivity, better accuracy, and more outstanding resistance to photobleaching. AIE-based bioprobes have been tailored for a vast variety of purposes ranging from biospecies sensing to bioimaging to theranostics (i.e., image-guided therapies). In this review, recent five years' advances in AIE-based bioprobes are briefly overviewed in a perspective distinct from other reviews, focusing on the most appealing trends and progresses in this flourishing research field. There are altogether 11 trends outlined, which have been classified into four aspects: the probe composition and form (bioconjugtes, nanoprobes), the output signal of probe (far-red/near-infrared luminescence, two/three-photon excited fluorescence, phosphorescence), the modality and functionality of probing system (dual-modality, dual/multifunctionality), the probing object and application outlet (specific organelles, cancer cells, bacteria, real samples). Typical examples of each trend are presented and specifically demonstrated. Some important prospects and challenges are pointed out as well in the hope of intriguing more interests from researchers working in diverse areas into this exciting research field.

The Influence of Student Learning Characteristics on Purchase of Paper Book and eBook for University Study and Personal Interest

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Johnson, Genevieve Marie

2016-01-01

First-year university students (n = 199) completed an online questionnaire that queried their purchase of paper books and eBooks for university study and personal interest. The questionnaire also required students to rate their learning characteristics including reading strategies, study self-regulation, learning control beliefs and achievement…

Prevalence of cardiovascular morbidities in Myanmar.

PubMed

Zaw, Ko Ko; Nwe, Nwe; Hlaing, Su Su

2017-02-15

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are now in a rising trend in South East Asia including Myanmar due to increase in major cardiovascular risk factors in both urban and rural areas, such as smoking, obesity and diabetes mellitus. It is necessary to determine CVD morbidities in Myanmar for planning of prevention and control activities for CVDs. The cross-sectional household survey was conducted in 2012 with 600 people aged 40 years and above in four townships (Kyauk-Tan, Mawlamyaing, Pathein and Pyay) and used face-to-face interview with standard questionnaire [Rose Angina Questionnaire and Questionnaire by European Cardiovascular Indicators Surveillance Set (EUROCISS) Research Group] to determine the level of reported CVD morbidities in adult population. Age of the study population ranged from 40 to 99 years with the mean age of 56 years. Seventy-one percent of the study population was women. Nine percent of the study population have suffered from angina according to Rose Angina Questionnaire. Prevalence of possible heart attack, stroke and heart failure was 7.5, 1.5 and 2.8%. Prevalence of hypertension was 51%. The CVD morbidities are high. There is a need for strengthening prevention and control activities of CVDs.

Job attitudes of air traffic controllers : a comparison of three air traffic control specialties.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1973-01-01

792 JOURNEYMAN AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLERS FROM ARTCC, TRACON, and FSS facilities answered a four-part questionnaire concerning : 1.what they liked and disliked about ATC work, : 2.how much they liked or disliked certain specific aspects of ATC work, : 3...

Information Needs of Cancer Patients and Perception of Impact of the Disease, of Self-Efficacy, and Locus of Control.

PubMed

Keinki, C; Seilacher, E; Ebel, M; Ruetters, D; Kessler, I; Stellamanns, J; Rudolph, I; Huebner, J

2016-09-01

The aim of our study was to investigate the relationship between information needs and cancer patients' perceptions of the impact of the disease, self-efficacy, and locus of control. Using a standardized questionnaire, we obtained data from patients who attended a series of lectures. The questionnaire included questions on their information needs, sources of information, satisfaction with information, and short questionnaires on self-efficacy, perception of the disease, and locus of control of reinforcement. Data was obtained from 185 patients. Our results showed that the sources of information that were most often used were physicians (84 %), print media (68 %), and the Internet (59 %); online fora (7.5 %), non-medical practitioners (9.7 %), and telephone-based counseling (8.6 %) were only used by a minority. Patients with a high perception of their own control over the disease more often used any source of information available to them and were more often interested in acquiring additional information. Higher self-efficacy was significantly associated with the need for information on all topics. Patients with a higher external locus of control significantly more often used sources of information and had significantly more need for additional information. By contrast, there were no associations with an internal locus of control. Neither external nor internal locus of control showed any associations with satisfaction with information. Information needs seem to be higher in patients with a high external locus of control and low self-efficacy. Physicians, other professionals, and institutions that provide information may take these relationships into consideration for tailoring their services to patients.

Quality of life after intra-arterial treatment for acute ischemic stroke in the MR CLEAN trial-Update.

PubMed

Schreuders, Jennifer; van den Berg, Lucie A; Fransen, Puck Ss; Berkhemer, Olvert A; Beumer, Debbie; Lingsma, Hester F; van Oostenbrugge, Robert J; van Zwam, Wim H; Majoie, Charles Blm; van der Lugt, Aad; de Kort, Paul Lm; Roos, Yvo Bwem; Dippel, Diederik Wj

2017-10-01

Background Health-related quality of life measured with the EuroQol Group 5-Dimension Self-Report Questionnaire was one of the secondary outcomes in the Multicenter Randomized Clinical trial of Endovascular treatment for Acute ischemic stroke in the Netherlands (MR CLEAN). We reported no statistically significant difference in EuroQol Group 5-Dimension Self-Report Questionnaire score between the intervention and control groups, but deaths were not included. Aims Reanalyze the effect of intra-arterial treatment for large vessel occlusion in acute ischemic stroke patients on health-related quality of life in more detail. We now include patients who died during follow-up. Methods The EuroQol Group 5-Dimension Self-Report Questionnaire questionnaires were obtained 90 days after treatment. We used the Dutch tariff to derive a utility index from the EuroQol Group 5-Dimension Self-Report Questionnaire score. Treatment effect was estimated with the Mann-Whitney U test and linear regression. The effect of treatment on the distribution of EuroQol Group 5-Dimension Self-Report Questionnaire dimension scores was assessed with ordinal logistic regression. Results We obtained EuroQol Group 5-Dimension Self-Report Questionnaire scores from 457 (91.7%) of the 500 patients, including 108 who died before follow-up. Median EuroQol Group 5-Dimension Self-Report Questionnaire score in the intervention group was 0.57, and 0.39 in the control group (p = 0.03). Treatment effect estimated with linear regression was 0.07 (95%CI: -0.001 to 0.143). Treatment specifically affected EuroQol Group 5-Dimension Self-Report Questionnaire dimensions "mobility" (OR: 0.43, 95%CI: 0.29-0.66), "self-care" (OR: 0.60, 95%CI: 0.41-0.89), and "usual activities" (OR: 0.53, 95%CI: 0.36-0.79). Conclusion Treatment had a limited effect on quality of life, as measured with the EuroQol Group 5-Dimension Self-Report Questionnaire. Nevertheless, patients with acute ischemic stroke caused by an intracranial occlusion in the anterior circulation, who had intra-arterial treatment, experience better health-related quality of life than patients without intra-arterial treatment. Trial Registration URL: http://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN10888758 Unique identifier: ISRCTN10888758.

Incontinence in children with treated attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.

PubMed

Niemczyk, J; Equit, M; Hoffmann, L; von Gontard, A

2015-06-01

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and incontinence (nocturnal enuresis, daytime urinary incontinence and fecal incontinence) are common disorders in childhood. Both disorders are strongly associated with each other. ADHD can affect compliance to incontinence therapy in a negative way; it can also affect outcome. The aim of the present study was to assess the prevalence of incontinence, age of bladder and bowel control, and psychological symptoms in children having treatment for ADHD compared to a control group. Forty children having treatment for ADHD (75% boys, mean age 11.4 years) and 43 matched controls (60.5% boys, mean age 10.7 years) were assessed. Their parents filled out questionnaires to assess: child psychopathology (Child Behavior Checklist), incontinence (Parental Questionnaire: Enuresis/Urinary Incontinence; Encopresis Questionnaire - Screening Version) and symptoms of the lower urinary tract (International-Consultation-on-Incontinence-Questionnaire - Pediatric Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms). The ICD-10 diagnoses and children's IQ were measured by standardized instruments (Kinder-DIPS, Coloured Progressive Matrices/Standard Progressive Matrices). Rates of incontinence in the ADHD group (5% nocturnal enuresis, 5% daytime urinary incontinence, 2.5% fecal incontinence) did not differ significantly from incontinence rates in the control group (4.7% daytime urinary incontinence). More children in the ADHD group had Child Behavior Checklist scores in the clinical range. Further ICD-10 disorders were present in eight children with ADHD and in one control child. More children with ADHD had delayed daytime and nighttime bladder control, as well as delayed bowel control, than the controls. The present study showed that if children are treated for their ADHD, according to standard practice guidelines, incontinence rates are similar to those without ADHD. More children with ADHD reached continence at a later age than the controls, which could be an indicator of maturational deficits in the central nervous system. Additionally, children with ADHD showed higher rates of clinically relevant psychological symptoms. This study provides further information of the association between ADHD and incontinence. Treatment of ADHD may be associated with positive effects on incontinence outcomes. Therefore, children with ADHD should always be screened for incontinence problems and children with incontinence problems should also be screened for ADHD if symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention and/or impulsivity are also present. Copyright © 2015 Journal of Pediatric Urology Company. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Pain cognition versus pain intensity in patients with endometriosis: toward personalized treatment.

PubMed

van Aken, Mieke A W; Oosterman, Joukje M; van Rijn, C M; Ferdek, Magdalena A; Ruigt, Gé S F; Peeters, B W M M; Braat, Didi D M; Nap, Annemiek W

2017-10-01

To explore how pain intensity and pain cognition are related to health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in women with endometriosis. Cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey. Multidisciplinary referral center. Women with laparoscopically and/or magnetic resonance imaging-proven endometriosis (n = 50) and healthy control women (n = 42). For HRQoL, two questionnaires: the generic Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) and the Endometriosis Health Profile 30 (EHP-30). For pain cognition, three questionnaires: the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS), the Pain Vigilance and Awareness Questionnaire (PVAQ), and the Pain Anxiety Symptoms Scale (PASS). For pain intensity, the verbal Numeric Rating Scale (NRS). Association between pain intensity and pain cognition with HRQoL in women with endometriosis, and the differences in HRQoL and pain cognition between women with endometriosis and healthy controls. Health-related quality of life was statistically significantly impaired in women with endometriosis as compared with healthy control women. The variables of pain intensity and pain cognition were independent factors influencing the HRQoL of women with endometriosis. Patients with endometriosis had statistically significantly more negative pain cognition as compared with controls. They reported more pain anxiety and catastrophizing, and they were hypervigilant toward pain. Pain cognition is independently associated with the HRQoL in endometriosis patients. Clinicians should be aware of this phenomenon and may consider treating pain symptoms in a multidimensional, individualized way in which the psychological aspects are taken into account. In international guidelines on management of women with endometriosis more attention should be paid to the psychological aspects of care. Copyright © 2017 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Productivity loss due to absenteeism and presenteeism by different instruments in patients with RA and subjects without RA.

PubMed

Braakman-Jansen, Louise M A; Taal, Erik; Kuper, Ina H; van de Laar, Mart A F J

2012-02-01

To explore the impact of at-work productivity loss on the total productivity cost by different instruments in patients recently diagnosed with RA and controls without RA. Cross-sectional data were collected from outpatients with RA between December 2007 and February 2008. The control group was formed by subjects without RA matched on age and gender. Absenteeism and presenteeism were estimated by the Quantity and Quality (QQ) Questionnaire, Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire General Health V2.0 (WPAI-GH) and Health and Labor Questionnaire (HLQ) questionnaires. Differences between groups were tested by Mann-Whitney U-test. Costs were valued by the human capital approach. Data were available from 62 patients with a paid job and 61 controls. QQ- and WPAI-GH scores of presenteeism were moderately correlated (r = 0.61) while the HLQ presenteeism score correlated poorly with the other instruments (r = 0.34). The contribution of presenteeism on total productivity costs was estimated at ∼70% in the RA group. The mean costs per person per week due to presenteeism varied between €79 and €318 per week in the RA group, dependent on the instrument used. The costs due to presenteeism were about two to four times higher in the RA group compared with the control group. This study indicates that the impact of presenteeism on the total productivity costs in patients with RA is high. However, work productivity in individuals without RA was not optimal either, which implies a risk of overestimation of cost when a normal score is not taken into account. Finally, different presenteeism instruments lead to different results.

Impact of National Institutes of Health Gastrointestinal PROMIS Measures in Clinical Practice: Results of a Multicenter Controlled Trial.

PubMed

Almario, Christopher V; Chey, William D; Khanna, Dinesh; Mosadeghi, Sasan; Ahmed, Shahzad; Afghani, Elham; Whitman, Cynthia; Fuller, Garth; Reid, Mark; Bolus, Roger; Dennis, Buddy; Encarnacion, Rey; Martinez, Bibiana; Soares, Jennifer; Modi, Rushaba; Agarwal, Nikhil; Lee, Aaron; Kubomoto, Scott; Sharma, Gobind; Bolus, Sally; Spiegel, Brennan M R

2016-11-01

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) created the Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) to allow efficient, online measurement of patient-reported outcomes (PROs), but it remains untested whether PROMIS improves outcomes. Here, we aimed to compare the impact of gastrointestinal (GI) PROMIS measures vs. usual care on patient outcomes. We performed a pragmatic clinical trial with an off-on study design alternating weekly between intervention (GI PROMIS) and control arms at one Veterans Affairs and three university-affiliated specialty clinics. Adults with GI symptoms were eligible. Intervention patients completed GI PROMIS symptom questionnaires on an e-portal 1 week before their visit; PROs were available for review by patients and their providers before and during the clinic visit. Usual care patients were managed according to customary practices. Our primary outcome was patient satisfaction as determined by the Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems questionnaire. Secondary outcomes included provider interpersonal skills (Doctors' Interpersonal Skills Questionnaire (DISQ)) and shared decision-making (9-item Shared Decision Making Questionnaire (SDM-Q-9)). There were 217 and 154 patients in the GI PROMIS and control arms, respectively. Patient satisfaction was similar between groups (P>0.05). Intervention patients had similar assessments of their providers' interpersonal skills (DISQ 89.4±11.7 vs. 89.8±16.0, P=0.79) and shared decision-making (SDM-Q-9 79.3±12.4 vs. 79.0±22.0, P=0.85) vs. This is the first controlled trial examining the impact of NIH PROMIS in clinical practice. One-time use of GI PROMIS did not improve patient satisfaction or assessment of provider interpersonal skills and shared decision-making. Future studies examining how to optimize PROs in clinical practice are encouraged before widespread adoption.

A multimedia intervention on cardiopulmonary resuscitation and advance directives.

PubMed

Yamada, R; Galecki, A T; Goold, S D; Hogikyan, R V

1999-09-01

To assess the effects of a multimedia educational intervention about advance directives (ADs) and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on the knowledge, attitude and activity toward ADs and life-sustaining treatments of elderly veterans. Prospective randomized controlled, single blind study of educational interventions. General medicine clinic of a university-affiliated Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC). One hundred seventeen Veterans, 70 years of age or older, deemed able to make medical care decisions. The control group (n = 55) received a handout about ADs in use at the VAMC. The experimental group (n = 62) received the same handout, with an additional handout describing procedural aspects and outcomes of CPR, and they watched a videotape about ADs. Patients' attitudes and actions toward ADs, CPR and life-sustaining treatments were recorded before the intervention, after it, and 2 to 4 weeks after the intervention through self-administered questionnaires. Only 27.8% of subjects stated that they knew what an AD is in the preintervention questionnaire. This proportion improved in both the experimental and control (87.2% experimental, 52.5% control) subject groups, but stated knowledge of what an AD is was higher in the experimental group (odds ratio = 6.18, p <.001) and this effect, although diminished, persisted in the follow-up questionnaire (OR = 3.92, p =. 003). Prior to any intervention, 15% of subjects correctly estimated the likelihood of survival after CPR. This improved after the intervention in the experimental group (OR = 4.27, p =.004), but did not persist at follow-up. In the postintervention questionnaire, few subjects in either group stated that they discussed CPR or ADs with their physician on that day (OR = 0.97, p = NS). We developed a convenient means of educating elderly male patients regarding CPR and advance directives that improved short-term knowledge but did not stimulate advance care planning.

The Challenging Experience Questionnaire: Characterization of challenging experiences with psilocybin mushrooms.

PubMed

Barrett, Frederick S; Bradstreet, Matthew P; Leoutsakos, Jeannie-Marie S; Johnson, Matthew W; Griffiths, Roland R

2016-12-01

Acute adverse psychological reactions to classic hallucinogens ("bad trips" or "challenging experiences"), while usually benign with proper screening, preparation, and support in controlled settings, remain a safety concern in uncontrolled settings (such as illicit use contexts). Anecdotal and case reports suggest potential adverse acute symptoms including affective (panic, depressed mood), cognitive (confusion, feelings of losing sanity), and somatic (nausea, heart palpitation) symptoms. Responses to items from several hallucinogen-sensitive questionnaires (Hallucinogen Rating Scale, the States of Consciousness Questionnaire, and the Five-Dimensional Altered States of Consciousness questionnaire) in an Internet survey of challenging experiences with the classic hallucinogen psilocybin were used to construct and validate a Challenging Experience Questionnaire. The stand-alone Challenging Experience Questionnaire was then validated in a separate sample. Seven Challenging Experience Questionnaire factors (grief, fear, death, insanity, isolation, physical distress, and paranoia) provide a phenomenological profile of challenging aspects of experiences with psilocybin. Factor scores were associated with difficulty, meaningfulness, spiritual significance, and change in well-being attributed to the challenging experiences. The factor structure did not differ based on gender or prior struggle with anxiety or depression. The Challenging Experience Questionnaire provides a basis for future investigation of predictors and outcomes of challenging experiences with classic hallucinogens. © The Author(s) 2016.

Effects of a Financial Incentive on Health Researchers’ Response to an Online Survey: a Randomized Controlled Trial

PubMed Central

Petticrew, Mark; Calnan, Mike; Nazareth, Irwin

2010-01-01

Background Nonresponse to questionnaires can affect the validity of surveys and introduce bias. Offering financial incentives can increase response rates to postal questionnaires, but the effect of financial incentives on response rates to online surveys is less clear. Objective As part of a survey, we aimed to test whether knowledge of a financial incentive would increase the response rate to an online questionnaire. Methods A randomized controlled trial of 485 UK-based principal investigators of publicly funded health services and population health research. Participants were contacted by email and invited to complete an online questionnaire via an embedded URL. Participants were randomly allocated to groups with either “knowledge of” or “no knowledge of” a financial incentive (£10 Amazon gift voucher) to be provided on completion of the survey. At the end of the study, gift vouchers were given to all participants who completed the questionnaire regardless of initial randomization status. Four reminder emails (sent from the same email address as the initial invitation) were sent out to nonrespondents at one, two, three, and four weeks; a fifth postal reminder was also undertaken. The primary outcome measure for the trial was the response rate one week after the second reminder. Response rate was also measured at the end of weeks one, two, three, four, and five, and after a postal reminder was sent. Results In total, 243 (50%) questionnaires were returned (232 completed, 11 in which participation was declined). One week after the second reminder, the response rate in the “knowledge” group was 27% (66/244) versus 20% (49/241) in the “no knowledge” group (χ21 = 3.0, P = .08). The odds ratio for responding among those with knowledge of an incentive was 1.45 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.95 - 2.21). At the third reminder, participants in the “no knowledge” group were informed about the incentive, ending the randomized element of the study. However we continued to follow up all participants, and from reminder three onwards, no significant differences were observed in the response rates of the two groups. Conclusions Knowledge of a financial incentive did not significantly increase the response rate to an online questionnaire. Future surveys should consider including a randomized element to further test the utility of offering incentives of other types and amounts to participate in online questionnaires. Trial Registration ISRCTN59912797; http://www.controlled-trials.com/ISRCTN59912797 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/5iPPLbT7s) PMID:20457556

Gaze-controlled, computer-assisted communication in Intensive Care Unit: "speaking through the eyes".

PubMed

Maringelli, F; Brienza, N; Scorrano, F; Grasso, F; Gregoretti, C

2013-02-01

The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that a gaze-controlled communication system (eye tracker, ET) can improve communication processes between completely dysarthric ICU patients and the hospital staff, in three main domains: 1) basic communication processes (i.e., fundamental needs, desire, and wishes); 2) the ability of the medical staff to understand the clinical condition of the patient; and 3) the level of frustration experienced by patient, nurses and physicians. Fifteen fully conscious medical and surgical patients, 8 physicians, and 15 nurses were included in the study. The experimental procedure was composed by three phases: in phase 1 all groups completed the preintervention questionnaire; in phase 2 the ET was introduced and tested as a communication device; in phase 3 all groups completed the postintervention questionnaire. Patients preintervention questionnaires showed remarkable communication deficits, without any group effect. Answers of physicians and nurses were pretty much similar to the one of patients. Postintervention questionnaires showed in all groups a remarkable and statistically significant improvement in different communication domains, as well as a remarkable decrease of anxiety and disphoric thought. Improvement was also reported by physicians and nurses in their ability to understand patient's clinical conditions. Our results show an improvement in the quality of the examined parameters. Better communication processes seem also to lead to improvements in several psychological parameters, namely anxiety and drop-out depression perceived by both patients and medical staff. Further controlled studies are needed to define the ET role in ICU.

Trial and evaluation of assertion training involving nursing students.

PubMed

Nishina, Yuko; Tanigaki, Shizuko

2013-09-01

The concept of assertion and conceptual/practical methods of assertion (assertiveness) training were originally developed in the United States and Europe. These principles were embraced and adapted in Japan in 1970's. However, only a few studies relating to assertion (assertiveness) have been undertaken thus far in Japan, especially so in the domain of nursing students in comparison with other countries. The purpose of this study was to design and implement assertion training with nursing students and to clarify its effects. The participants were all volunteers, invited from a class of 3rd year nursing students. Ten students (intervention group) participated in the assertion training comprised of five sessions in February 2006. Fifty-six students (control group) were participated only in the questionnaire. Both groups were asked to complete the same questionnaire twice, before and after the assertion training. The questionnaire measured levels of assertiveness, social skills, self-esteem, social support and satisfaction with university life. The results and variances, both before and after assertion training, between the intervention group and the control group were analyzed. The effectiveness of the assertion training was determined by changes in pre and post training questionnaire scores. The scores for social skills in the control group had a tendency to decline while the scores for social skills in the intervention group remained constant. Although there were no statistically significant results in the intervention group, the present study highlights areas appropriate for further study.

Validation of the exercise and eating disorders questionnaire

PubMed Central

Bjørnelv, Sigrid; Rø, Øyvind

2015-01-01

ABSTRACT Objective Compulsive exercise is a well‐known feature in eating disorders. The Exercise and Eating Disorder (EED) self‐report questionnaire was developed to assess aspects of compulsive exercise not adequately captured by existing instruments. This study aimed to test psychometric properties and the factor structure of the EED among women with eating disorders and a control group. Method The study included 449 female participants, including 244 eating disorders patients and 205 healthy controls. The patient group consisted of 32.4% (n = 79) AN patients, 23.4% (n = 57) BN, 34.4% (n = 84) EDNOS and 9.8% (n = 24) with BED diagnosis. Results The analyses confirmed adequate psychometric properties of the EED, with a four‐factor solution: (1) compulsive exercise, (2) positive and healthy exercise, (3) awareness of bodily signals, and (4) weight and shape exercise. The EED discriminated significantly (p < .001) between patients and controls on the global score, subscales, and individual items. Test‐retest reliability was satisfactory (r = 0.86). Convergent validity was demonstrated by high correlations between the EED and the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE‐Q; r = 0.79). Discussion The EED is the first clinically derived, self‐report questionnaire to assess compulsive exercise among ED patients. The EED offers assessment that has broader clinical utility than existing instruments because it identifies treatment targets and treatment priorities. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2015; 48:983–993). PMID:25639668

Trial and Evaluation of Assertion Training Involving Nursing Students

PubMed Central

Nishina, Yuko; Tanigaki, Shizuko

2013-01-01

Background The concept of assertion and conceptual/practical methods of assertion (assertiveness) training were originally developed in the United States and Europe. These principles were embraced and adapted in Japan in 1970’s. However, only a few studies relating to assertion (assertiveness) have been undertaken thus far in Japan, especially so in the domain of nursing students in comparison with other countries. The purpose of this study was to design and implement assertion training with nursing students and to clarify its effects. Methods The participants were all volunteers, invited from a class of 3rd year nursing students. Ten students (intervention group) participated in the assertion training comprised of five sessions in February 2006. Fifty-six students (control group) were participated only in the questionnaire. Both groups were asked to complete the same questionnaire twice, before and after the assertion training. The questionnaire measured levels of assertiveness, social skills, self-esteem, social support and satisfaction with university life. The results and variances, both before and after assertion training, between the intervention group and the control group were analyzed. The effectiveness of the assertion training was determined by changes in pre and post training questionnaire scores. Results The scores for social skills in the control group had a tendency to decline while the scores for social skills in the intervention group remained constant. Conclusion Although there were no statistically significant results in the intervention group, the present study highlights areas appropriate for further study. PMID:24174705

What Can We Learn about Auditory Processing from Adult Hearing Questionnaires?

PubMed

Bamiou, Doris-Eva; Iliadou, Vasiliki Vivian; Zanchetta, Sthella; Spyridakou, Chrysa

2015-01-01

Questionnaires addressing auditory disability may identify and quantify specific symptoms in adult patients with listening difficulties. (1) To assess validity of the Speech, Spatial, and Qualities of Hearing Scale (SSQ), the (Modified) Amsterdam Inventory for Auditory Disability (mAIAD), and the Hyperacusis Questionnaire (HYP) in adult patients experiencing listening difficulties in the presence of a normal audiogram. (2) To examine which individual questionnaire items give the worse scores in clinical participants with an auditory processing disorder (APD). A prospective correlational analysis study. Clinical participants (N = 58) referred for assessment because of listening difficulties in the presence of normal audiometric thresholds to audiology/ear, nose, and throat or audiovestibular medicine clinics. Normal control participants (N = 30). The mAIAD, HYP, and the SSQ were administered to a clinical population of nonneurological adults who were referred for auditory processing (AP) assessment because of hearing complaints, in the presence of normal audiogram and cochlear function, and to a sample of age-matched normal-hearing controls, before the AP testing. Clinical participants with abnormal results in at least one ear and in at least two tests of AP (and at least one of these tests to be nonspeech) were classified as clinical APD (N = 39), and the remaining (16 of whom had a single test abnormality) as clinical non-APD (N = 19). The SSQ correlated strongly with the mAIAD and the HYP, and correlation was similar within the clinical group and the normal controls. All questionnaire total scores and subscores (except sound distinction of mAIAD) were significantly worse in the clinical APD versus the normal group, while questionnaire total scores and most subscores indicated greater listening difficulties for the clinical non-APD versus the normal subgroups. Overall, the clinical non-APD group tended to give better scores than the APD in all questionnaires administered. Correlation was strong for the worse-ear gaps-in-noise threshold with the SSQ, mAIAD, and HYP; strong to moderate for the speech in babble and left-ear dichotic digit test scores (at p < 0.01); and weak to moderate for the remaining AP tests except the frequency pattern test that did not correlate. The worse-scored items in all three questionnaires concerned speech-in-noise questions. This is similar to worse-scored items by hearing-impaired participants as reported in the literature. Worse-scored items of the clinical group also included quality aspects of listening questions from the SSQ, which most likely pertain to cognitive aspects of listening, such as ability to ignore other sounds and listening effort. Hearing questionnaires may help assess symptoms of adults with APD. The listening difficulties and needs of adults with APD to some extent overlap with those of hearing-impaired listeners, but there are significant differences. The correlation of the gaps-in-noise and duration pattern (but not frequency pattern) tests with the questionnaire scores indicates that temporal processing deficits may play an important role in clinical presentation. American Academy of Audiology.

Rehabilitation of memory following brain injury (ReMemBrIn): study protocol for a randomised controlled trial.

PubMed

das Nair, Roshan; Lincoln, Nadina B; Ftizsimmons, Deborah; Brain, Nicola; Montgomery, Alan; Bradshaw, Lucy; Drummond, Avril; Sackley, Catherine; Newby, Gavin; Thornton, Jim; Stapleton, Sandip; Pink, Anthony

2015-01-06

Impairments of memory are commonly reported by people with traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Such deficits are persistent, debilitating, and can severely impact quality of life. Currently, many do not routinely receive follow-up appointments for residual memory problems following discharge. This is a multi-centre, randomised controlled trial investigating the clinical and cost-effectiveness of a group-based memory rehabilitation programme. Three hundred and twelve people with a traumatic brain injury will be randomised from four centres. Participants will be eligible if they had a traumatic brain injury more than 3 months prior to recruitment, have memory problems, are 18 to 69 years of age, are able to travel to one of our centres and attend group sessions, and are able to give informed consent. Participants will be randomised in clusters of 4 to 6 to the group rehabilitation intervention or to usual care. Intervention groups will receive 10 weekly sessions of a manualised memory rehabilitation programme, which has been developed in previous pilot studies. The intervention will include restitution strategies to retrain impaired memory functions and compensation strategies to enable participants to cope with their memory problems. All participants will receive a follow-up postal questionnaire and an assessment by a research assistant at 6 and 12 months post-randomisation. The primary outcome is the Everyday Memory Questionnaire at 6 months. Secondary outcomes include the Rivermead Behavioural Memory Test-3, General Health Questionnaire-30, health related quality of life, cost-effectiveness analysis determined by the EQ-5D and a service use questionnaire, individual goal attainment, European Brain Injury Questionnaire (patient and relative versions), and the Everyday Memory Questionnaire-relative version. The primary analysis will be based on intention to treat. A mixed-model regression analysis of the Everyday Memory Questionnaire at 6 months will be used to estimate the effect of the group memory rehabilitation programme. The study will hopefully provide robust evidence regarding the clinical and cost-effectiveness of a group-based memory rehabilitation intervention for civilians and military personnel following TBI. We discuss our decision-making regarding choice of outcome measures and control group, and the unique challenges to recruiting people with memory problems to trials. ISRCTN65792154; Date: 18 October 2012.

Dietary Screener Questionnaire in the National Health Interview Survey Cancer Control Supplement 2010: Overview

Cancer.gov

The National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) Cancer Control Supplement (CCS) is administered every five years and focuses on knowledge, attitudes, and practices in cancer-related health behaviors, screening, and risk assessment.

Dietary Screener Questionnaire in the National Health Interview Survey Cancer Control Supplement 2015

Cancer.gov

The National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) Cancer Control Supplement (CCS) is administered every five years and focuses on knowledge, attitudes, and practices in cancer-related health behaviors, screening, and risk assessment.

Mode Equivalence of Health Indicators Between Data Collection Modes and Mixed-Mode Survey Designs in Population-Based Health Interview Surveys for Children and Adolescents: Methodological Study.

PubMed

Mauz, Elvira; Hoffmann, Robert; Houben, Robin; Krause, Laura; Kamtsiuris, Panagiotis; Gößwald, Antje

2018-03-05

The implementation of an Internet option in an existing public health interview survey using a mixed-mode design is attractive because of lower costs and faster data availability. Additionally, mixed-mode surveys can increase response rates and improve sample composition. However, mixed-mode designs can increase the risk of measurement error (mode effects). This study aimed to determine whether the prevalence rates or mean values of self- and parent-reported health indicators for children and adolescents aged 0-17 years differ between self-administered paper-based questionnaires (SAQ-paper) and self-administered Web-based questionnaires (SAQ-Web), as well as between a single-mode control group and different mixed-mode groups. Data were collected for a methodological pilot of the third wave of the "German Health Interview and Examination Survey for Children and Adolescents". Questionnaires were completed by parents or adolescents. A population-based sample of 11,140 children and adolescents aged 0-17 years was randomly allocated to 4 survey designs-a single-mode control group with paper-and-pencil questionnaires only (n=970 parents, n=343 adolescents)-and 3 mixed-mode designs, all of which offered Web-based questionnaire options. In the concurrent mixed-mode design, both questionnaires were offered at the same time (n=946 parents, n=290 adolescents); in the sequential mixed-mode design, the SAQ-Web was sent first, followed by the paper questionnaire along with a reminder (n=854 parents, n=269 adolescents); and in the preselect mixed-mode design, both options were offered and the respondents were asked to request the desired type of questionnaire (n=698 parents, n=292 adolescents). In total, 3468 questionnaires of parents of children aged 0-17 years (SAQ-Web: n=708; SAQ-paper: n=2760) and 1194 questionnaires of adolescents aged 11-17 years (SAQ-Web: n=299; SAQ-paper: n=895) were analyzed. Sociodemographic characteristics and a broad range of health indicators for children and adolescents were compared by survey design and data collection mode by calculating predictive margins from regression models. There were no statistically significant differences in sociodemographic characteristics or health indicators between the single-mode control group and any of the mixed-mode survey designs. Differences in sociodemographic characteristics between SAQ-Web and SAQ-paper were found. Web respondents were more likely to be male, have higher levels of education, and higher household income compared with paper respondents. After adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics, only one of the 38 analyzed health indicators showed different prevalence rates between the data collection modes, with a higher prevalence rate for lifetime alcohol consumption among the online-responding adolescents (P<.001). These results suggest that mode bias is limited in health interview surveys for children and adolescents using a mixed-mode design with Web-based and paper questionnaires. ©Elvira Mauz, Robert Hoffmann, Robin Houben, Laura Krause, Panagiotis Kamtsiuris, Antje Gößwald. Originally published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research (http://www.jmir.org), 05.03.2018.

Identification of psychological comorbidity in TMD-patients.

PubMed

Ismail, F; Eisenburger, M; Lange, K; Schneller, T; Schwabe, L; Strempel, J; Stiesch, M

2016-05-01

The aim of the current study was to access the prevalence of depression among patients with Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) compared to patients with no current TMD. Patients (92) and controls (90) answered questionnaires on subjective pain, severity of chronic pain, jaw disability, emotional well-being and depression, and a clinical examination was performed. Temporomandibular Joint Disorder patients reported higher disability of jaw function, compared to controls (p<0.001). The myoarthopathy subgroup (67.4%) had slightly more jaw disability than the myopathy subgroup (p>0.05). While 51% of TMD patients reported poor emotional well-being, only 7.8% of controls were affected (p<0.001). Clinical symptoms of depression were reported by 16% of TMD patients and not in the controls (p<0.001). Among TMD patients, a higher prevalence of depression was observed in the myopathy subgroup. A regular screening for psychological problems, using standardized questionnaires, should be integrated in clinical examination of TMD patients.

Usability Evaluation of Spot and Runway Departure Advisor (SARDA) Concept in Dallas/Fort Worth Airport Tower Simulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hayashi, Miwa; Hoang, Ty; Jung, Yoon C.; Gupta, Gautam; Malik, Waqar; Dulchinos, Victoria

2013-01-01

Spot and Runway Departure Advisor (SARDA) is a proposed decision-support tool for air traffic control tower controllers for reducing taxi delay and optimizing the departure sequence. In the present study, the tool's usability was evaluated to ensure that its claimed performance benefits are not being realized at the cost of increasing the work burden on controllers. For the evaluation, workload ratings and questionnaire responses collected during a human-in-the-loop simulation experiment were analyzed to assess the SARDA advisories' effects on the controllers' ratings on cognitive resources (e.g., workload, spare attention) and satisfaction. The results showed that SARDA reduced the controllers' workload and increased their spare attention. It also made workload and attention levels less susceptible to the effects of increases in the traffic load. The questionnaire responses suggested that the controllers generally were satisfied with the ease of use of the tool and the objectives of the SARDA concept, but with some caution. To gain more trust from controllers, the the reasoning behind advisories may need to be made more transparent to them.

Quality of life 15 years after sex reassignment surgery for transsexualism.

PubMed

Kuhn, Annette; Bodmer, Christine; Stadlmayr, Werner; Kuhn, Peter; Mueller, Michael D; Birkhäuser, Martin

2009-11-01

To evaluate quality of life and patients' satisfaction in transsexual patients (TS) after sex reassignment operation compared with healthy controls. A case-control study. A tertiary referral center. Patients after sex reassignment operation were compared with a similar group of healthy controls in respect to quality of life and general satisfaction. For quality of life we used the King's Health Questionnaire, which was distributed to the patients and to the control group. Visual analogue scale was used for the determination of satisfaction. Main outcome measures were quality of life and satisfaction. Fifty-five transsexuals participated in this study. Fifty-two were male-to-female and 3 female-to-male. Quality of life as determined by the King's Health Questionnaire was significantly lower in general health, personal, physical and role limitations. Patients' satisfaction was significantly lower compared with controls. Emotions, sleep, and incontinence impact as well as symptom severity is similar to controls. Overall satisfaction was statistically significant lower in TS compared with controls. Fifteen years after sex reassignment operation quality of life is lower in the domains general health, role limitation, physical limitation, and personal limitation.

78 FR 48412 - Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-08-08

....S. Census Bureau. Title: 2013 Company Organization Survey. OMB Control Number: 0607-0444. Form.... We ask questions on ownership or control by a domestic parent, ownership or control by a foreign... establishments. In 2011, we submitted a non-substantive change to the COS questionnaire. This revision added...

Long-Term Melatonin Therapy for Adolescents and Young Adults with Chronic Sleep Onset Insomnia and Late Melatonin Onset: Evaluation of Sleep Quality, Chronotype, and Lifestyle Factors Compared to Age-Related Randomly Selected Population Cohorts.

PubMed

Zwart, Tom C; Smits, Marcel G; Egberts, Toine C G; Rademaker, Carin M A; van Geijlswijk, Ingeborg M

2018-03-02

The extent of continuance of melatonin therapy initiated in pre-pubertal children with chronic sleep onset insomnia (CSOI) was investigated in young adult life. Sleep timing, sleep quality, adverse events, reasons for cessation of therapy, and patient characteristics with regard to therapy regimen, chronotype and lifestyle factors possibly influencing sleeping behavior were assessed. With an online survey using questionnaires (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Insomnia Severity Index, Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire, and Munich Chronotype Questionnaire), outcomes were measured and compared with age-related controls. These controls were extracted from published epidemiological research programs applying the same questionnaires. At the moment of the survey, melatonin was still continued by 27.3% of the patients, with a mean treatment duration of 10.8 years. The overall average treatment duration was 7.1 years. Sleep quality of both discontinued and persistent melatonin users did not deviate from controls. Sleep timing and chronotype scores indicated evening type preference in all responders. Adverse events were scarce but the perceived timing of pubertal development suggested a tendency towards delayed puberty in former and current users of melatonin. This study may underestimate the number of children that are able to stop using melatonin due to the response rate (47.8%) and appeal for continuing users. Sleep timing parameters were based on self-reported estimates. Control populations were predominantly students and were of varying nationalities. The statistical power of this study is low due to the limited sample size. Melatonin therapy sustained for 7.1 years does not result in substantial deviations of sleep quality as compared to controls and appears to be safe. The evening type preference suggests a causal relation with CSOI. This study shows that ten years after initiation of treatment with melatonin for CSOI, approximately 75% of the patients will have normal sleep quality without medication.

Nonoperative versus operative treatment for thoracolumbar burst fractures without neurologic deficit: a meta-analysis.

PubMed

Gnanenthiran, Sonali R; Adie, Sam; Harris, Ian A

2012-02-01

Decision-making regarding nonoperative versus operative treatment of patients with thoracolumbar burst fractures in the absence of neurologic deficits is controversial. Lack of evidence-based practice may result in patients being treated inappropriately and being exposed to unnecessary adverse consequences. Using meta-analysis, we therefore compared pain (VAS) and function (Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire) in patients with thoracolumbar burst fractures without neurologic deficit treated nonoperatively and operatively. Secondary outcomes included return to work, radiographic progression of kyphosis, radiographic progression of spinal canal stenosis, complications, cost, and length of hospitalization. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE(®), and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for 'thoracic fractures', 'lumbar fractures', 'non-operative', 'operative' and 'controlled clinical trials'. We established five criteria for inclusion. Data extraction and quality assessment were in accordance with Cochrane Collaboration guidelines. The main analyses were performed on individual patient data from randomized controlled trials. Sensitivity analyses were performed on VAS pain, Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire score, kyphosis, and return to work, including data from nonrandomized controlled trials and using fixed effects meta-analysis. We identified four trials, including two randomized controlled trials consisting of 79 patients (41 with operative treatment and 38 with nonoperative treatment). The mean followups ranged from 24 to 118 months. We found no between-group differences in baseline pain, kyphosis, and Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire scores. At last followup, there were no between-group differences in pain, Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire scores, and return to work rates. We found an improvement in kyphosis ranging from means of 12.8º to 11º in the operative group, but surgery was associated with higher complication rates and costs. Operative management of thoracolumbar burst fractures without neurologic deficit may improve residual kyphosis, but does not appear to improve pain or function at an average of 4 years after injury and is associated with higher complication rates and costs. Level II, therapeutic study. See the Guidelines for Authors for a complete description of level of evidence.

Evaluation of a randomized controlled trial in the management of chronic lower back pain in a French automotive industry: an observational study.

PubMed

Nassif, Hala; Brosset, Nicolas; Guillaume, Marion; Delore-Milles, Emilie; Tafflet, Muriel; Buchholz, Frédéric; Toussaint, Jean-François

2011-12-01

To evaluate a specific workplace intervention for the management of chronic lower back pain among employees working in assembly positions in the automotive industry. Randomized controlled trial. On site at the workplace of a French automotive manufacturer. Subjects (N=75 volunteers) were recruited on site and randomly assigned to either an experimental group (n=37) or a control group (n=38). The experimental group followed a supervised 60-minute session, 3 times per week, of muscle strengthening, flexibility, and endurance training during 2 months. The control group received no direct intervention. Evaluation took place at baseline, 2 months, and 6 months. Pain related parameters were evaluated using validated questionnaires and scales translated into French (Quebec Back Pain Disability Scale, Rolan Morris Disability Questionnaire, Dallas Pain Questionnaire, and the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia). Perceived pain intensity was evaluated using the numerical rating scale, and physical outcome measures were evaluated using specific indicators (flexibility, Biering-Sorensen Test, Shirado test). The multivariate analysis of variance, t test, and Wilcoxon signed-rank test were used for statistical analysis. We observed a significant beneficial effect (P<.025) for the experimental group at 2 and 6 months in pain parameters, specific flexibility, and in back functions, and a significant improvement at 6 months in the control group for the perceived pain intensity, anterior flexion, flexibility of quadriceps, and Dallas Pain Questionnaire's work recreational score. An increase in the practice of physical activity outside the workplace was noted in both groups at 2 months but persisted at 6 months for the experimental group. This study reinforces the multiple health benefits of physical activity and physical therapy modalities in the workplace by assisting individuals at risk who have chronic LBP. Copyright © 2011 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Patients' health beliefs and coping prior to autologous peripheral stem cell transplantation.

PubMed

Frick, E; Fegg, M J; Tyroller, M; Fischer, N; Bumeder, I

2007-03-01

The aim of this study was to determine the associations between health locus of control (LoC), causal attributions and coping in tumour patients prior to autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation. Patients completed the Questionnaire of Health Related Control Expectancies, the Questionnaire of Personal Illness Causes (QPIC), and the Freiburg Questionnaire of Coping with Illness. A total of 126 patients (45% women; 54% suffering from a multiple myeloma, 29% from non-Hodgkin lymphomas, and 17% from other malignancies) participated in the study. Cluster analysis yielded four LoC clusters: 'fatalistic external', 'powerful others', 'yeah-sayer' and 'double external'. Self-blaming QPIC items were positively correlated with depressive coping, and 'fate or destiny' attributions with religious coping (P<0.001). The highest scores were found for 'active coping' in the LoC clusters 'powerful others' and 'yeah-sayer'. External LoC and an active coping style prevail before undergoing autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation, whereas the depressive coping is less frequent, associated with self-blaming causal attributions. Health beliefs include causal and control attributions, which can improve or impair the patient's adjustment. A mixture between internal and external attributions seems to be most adaptive.

Effortful control as a dimension of temperament is negatively associated with prefrontal serotonin transporter availability in obese and non-obese individuals.

PubMed

Zientek, Franziska; Winter, Karsten; Müller, Astrid; Rullmann, Michael; Luthardt, Julia; Becker, Georg-Alexander; Bresch, Anke; Patt, Marianne; Sabri, Osama; Hilbert, Anja; Hesse, Swen

2016-10-01

There is evidence that temperamental factors are associated with obesity; however, the biological mechanism of such association remains elusive. We aimed to investigate a possible association between serotonin transmission and regulative temperament in obese and non-obese individuals by using positron emission tomography (PET) imaging of serotonin transporters (SERT) and the Adult Temperament Questionnaire. Twenty-nine obese individuals with body mass index (BMI) ≥ 35 kg/m 2 and 13 non-obese controls (BMI < 30 kg/m 2 ) underwent PET with [ 11 C]-labeled DASB (highly selective for SERT) and self-completed the Effortful Control (EC) scale of the Adult Temperament Questionnaire-Short Form (ATQ). With the help of this questionnaire, we aimed to assess the capacity of self-regulation. Overall, for obese and non-obese individuals together, VOI-based (volume of interest) analysis showed significant negative correlations between SERT BP ND and ATQ-EC AC (Activation Control) subscale in several brain regions (all r ≤ -0.47). Obese and non-obese individuals separated showed equally strong positive, but non-significant correlations. The analysis did not reveal any significant correlations of SERT availability and ATQ-EC IC (Inhibitory Control) or ATQ-EC AtC (Attentional Control) subscale within and between the two groups. The results indicate that regulative temperament - particularly the capacity to mitigate negatively toned impulses and to resist inappropriate avoidance behavior - might be associated with the prefrontal serotonergic system. © 2016 Federation of European Neuroscience Societies and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Perceived stress in women with recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis.

PubMed

Ehrström, Sophia; Kornfeld, Dan; Rylander, Eva

2007-09-01

Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC) has become very common. The aim of this study was to evaluate if women with RVVC perceive more signs of chronic stress than healthy control subjects. Thirty-three women with RVVC and 28 healthy control subjects completed a questionnaire about perceived stress at work and in private life, and a health questionnaire. A comparison of the results was performed with the one-way ANOVA test. More women with RVVC than control subjects reported signs of burnout (p < 0.001), emotional symptoms of stress (p < 0.005), impaired balance between work and leisure time (p = 0.01), bodily symptoms of stress (p < 0.05), worrying factors at work (p < 0.05), and presented type D-personality (p < 0.05). The results of this pilot study showed higher degree of perceived stress in women with RVVC compared with healthy controls. These results are in line with our earlier findings of blunted morning rise cortisol and lower mean levels of cortisol in women with RVVC compared with healthy controls.

[Professional Burnout Syndrome of intensive care physicians from Salvador, Bahia, Brazil].

PubMed

Tironi, Márcia Oliveira Staffa; Nascimento Sobrinho, Carlito Lopes; Barros, Dalton de Souza; Reis, Eduardo José Farias Borges; Marques Filho, Edson Silva; Almeida, Alessandro; Bitencourt, Almir; Feitosa, Ana Isabela Ramos; Neves, Flávia Serra; Mota, Igor Carlos Cunha; França, Juliana; Borges, Lorena Guimarães; Lordão, Manuela Barreto de Jesus; Trindade, Maria Valverde; Teles, Marcelo Santos; Almeida, Mônica Bastos T; Souza, Ygor Gomes de

2009-01-01

Describe prevalence of the Burnout syndrome in intensive care physicians of Salvador, associated to demographic data and aspects of the work environment (psychological demand and job control). This cross sectional study has investigated the association between work conditions and Burnout Syndrome in a population of 297 Intensive Care Physicians from Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. An individual, self-report questionnaire evaluated the physicians' psychological aspects of work, using the demand-control model (Job Content Questionnaire) and their mental health, using the Maslash Burnout Inventory (MBI). The study found work overload,a high proportion of on duty physicians and low income for the hours worked. Prevalence of the Burnout Syndrome was 7.4% and it was more closely associated with aspects of the job's psychological demand than with its control. Physicians under great stress (high demand and low control) presented prevalence of the Bornout Syndrome 10.2 times higher than those under low stress (low demand and high control) jobs.

Assessing the Validity of the Quality of Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction Questionnaire--Short Form in Adults with ADHD

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mick, Eric; Faraone, Stephen V.; Spencer, Thomas; Zhang, Huabin F.; Biederman, Joseph

2008-01-01

Objective: The authors assessed the psychometric properties of the Quality of Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction Questionnaire-Short Form (Q-LES-QSF) in adults with ADHD. Method: One hundred fifty ADHD and 134 non-ADHD adults from a case-control study and 173 adults randomized to placebo or methylphenidate were assessed with the Q-LES-QSF and the…

Enhanced invitation methods to increase uptake of NHS health checks: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Forster, Alice S; Burgess, Caroline; McDermott, Lisa; Wright, Alison J; Dodhia, Hiten; Conner, Mark; Miller, Jane; Rudisill, Caroline; Cornelius, Victoria; Gulliford, Martin C

2014-08-30

NHS Health Checks is a new program for primary prevention of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and vascular dementia in adults aged 40 to 74 years in England. Individuals without existing cardiovascular disease or diabetes are invited for a Health Check every 5 years. Uptake among those invited is lower than anticipated. The project is a three-arm randomized controlled trial to test the hypothesis that enhanced invitation methods, using the Question-Behaviour Effect (QBE), will increase uptake of NHS Health Checks compared with a standard invitation. Participants comprise individuals eligible for an NHS Health Check registered in two London boroughs. Participants are randomized into one of three arms. Group A receives the standard NHS Health Check invitation letter, information sheet, and reminder letter at 12 weeks for nonattenders. Group B receives a QBE questionnaire 1 week before receiving the standard invitation, information sheet, and reminder letter where appropriate. Group C is the same as Group B, but participants are offered a £5 retail voucher if they return the questionnaire. Participants are randomized in equal proportions, stratified by general practice. The primary outcome is uptake of NHS Health Checks 6 months after invitation from electronic health records. We will estimate the incremental health service cost per additional completed Health Check for trial groups B and C versus trial arm A, as well as evaluating the impact of the QBE questionnaire, and questionnaire plus voucher, on the socioeconomic inequality in uptake of Health Checks.The trial includes a nested comparison of two methods for implementing allocation, one implemented manually at general practices and the other implemented automatically through the information systems used to generate invitations for the Health Check. The research will provide evidence on whether asking individuals to complete a preliminary questionnaire, by using the QBE, is effective in increasing uptake of Health Checks and whether an incentive alters questionnaire return rates as well as uptake of Health Checks. The trial interventions can be readily translated into routine service delivery if they are shown to be cost-effective. Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN42856343. Date registered: 21.03.2013.

Development, validity and responsiveness of the Clinical COPD Questionnaire.

PubMed

van der Molen, Thys; Willemse, Brigitte W M; Schokker, Siebrig; ten Hacken, Nick H T; Postma, Dirkje S; Juniper, Elizabeth F

2003-04-28

The new Global Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) guidelines advice to focus treatment in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) on improvement of functional state, prevention of disease progression and minimization of symptoms. So far no validated questionnaires are available to measure symptom and functional state in daily clinical practice. The aim of this study was to develop and validate the Clinical COPD Questionnaire (CCQ). Qualitative research with patients and clinicians was performed to generate possible items to evaluate clinical COPD control. Thereafter, an item reduction questionnaire was sent to 77 international experts. Sixty-seven experts responded and the 10 most important items, divided into 3 domains (symptoms, functional and mental state) were included in the CCQ (scale: 0 = best, 6 = worst). Cross-sectional data were collected from 119 subjects (57 COPD, GOLD stage I-III; 18 GOLD stage 0 and 44 (ex)smokers). Cronbach's alpha was high (0.91). The CCQ scores in patients (GOLD 0-III) were significantly higher than in healthy (ex)smokers. Furthermore, significant correlations were found between the CCQ total score and domains of the SF-36 (rho = 0.48 to rho = 0.69) and the SGRQ (rho = 0.67 to rho = 0.72). In patients with COPD, the correlation between the CCQ and FEV1%pred was rho =-0.49. Test-retest reliability was determined in 20 subjects in a 2-week interval (Intra Class Coefficient = 0.94). Thirty-six smokers with and without COPD showed significant improvement in the CCQ after 2 months smoking cessation, indicating the responsiveness of the CCQ. The CCQ is a self-administered questionnaire specially developed to measure clinical control in patients with COPD. Data support the validity, reliability and responsiveness of this short and easy to administer questionnaire.

Development, validity and responsiveness of the Clinical COPD Questionnaire

PubMed Central

van der Molen, Thys; Willemse, Brigitte WM; Schokker, Siebrig; ten Hacken, Nick HT; Postma, Dirkje S; Juniper, Elizabeth F

2003-01-01

Background The new Global Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) guidelines advice to focus treatment in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) on improvement of functional state, prevention of disease progression and minimization of symptoms. So far no validated questionnaires are available to measure symptom and functional state in daily clinical practice. The aim of this study was to develop and validate the Clinical COPD Questionnaire (CCQ). Methods Qualitative research with patients and clinicians was performed to generate possible items to evaluate clinical COPD control. Thereafter, an item reduction questionnaire was sent to 77 international experts. Sixty-seven experts responded and the 10 most important items, divided into 3 domains (symptoms, functional and mental state) were included in the CCQ (scale: 0 = best, 6 = worst). Results Cross-sectional data were collected from 119 subjects (57 COPD, GOLD stage I-III; 18 GOLD stage 0 and 44 (ex)smokers). Cronbach's α was high (0.91). The CCQ scores in patients (GOLD 0-III) were significantly higher than in healthy (ex)smokers. Furthermore, significant correlations were found between the CCQ total score and domains of the SF-36 (ρ = 0.48 to ρ = 0.69) and the SGRQ (ρ = 0.67 to ρ = 0.72). In patients with COPD, the correlation between the CCQ and FEV1%pred was ρ =-0.49. Test-retest reliability was determined in 20 subjects in a 2-week interval (Intra Class Coefficient = 0.94). Thirty-six smokers with and without COPD showed significant improvement in the CCQ after 2 months smoking cessation, indicating the responsiveness of the CCQ. Conclusion The CCQ is a self-administered questionnaire specially developed to measure clinical control in patients with COPD. Data support the validity, reliability and responsiveness of this short and easy to administer questionnaire. PMID:12773199

Beclomethasone Dipropionate Nasal Aerosol in Patients with Perennial Allergic Rhinitis (BALANCE) study: 6-month results.

PubMed

Bukstein, Donald; Parikh, Ruchir; Eid, Sherrine; Ferro, Thomas; Morello, Jean-Pierre

2016-01-01

Perennial allergic rhinitis (PAR) exerts significant quality-of-life and economic burdens on society. Beclomethasone dipropionate (BDP) nasal aerosol is the first nonaqueous, hydrofluoroalkane-propelled intranasal corticosteroid approved for patients in the United States to treat PAR and seasonal allergic rhinitis. To evaluate real-world effectiveness of BDP nasal aerosol from the patient's perspective by using a postmarketing observational registry. Patients (N = 824) from 43 U.S. study sites completed monthly patient-reported outcome instruments, including the Rhinitis Control Assessment Test (primary outcome variable), Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication, Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire plus Classroom Impairment Questions: Allergy-Specific, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and Mini Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire for 6 months. The primary outcome assessment (Rhinitis Control Assessment Test score) (N = 527) indicated significant symptomatic improvement over baseline beginning at month 1 (p < 0.001), with >78.8% of respondents who achieved clinically meaningful improvement over 6 months. Secondary outcome measures Mini Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (p < 0.001), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (p < 0.001), and Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication-9 scales of effectiveness (p < 0.001), global satisfaction (p = 0.001), and patient-rated convenience (p = 0.03), significantly increased from baseline to month 6. Five of seven measurements of the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire plus Classroom Impairment Questions: Allergy-Specific, with the exception of work time missed and class time missed, were significantly (p < 0.001) improved in patients treated with BDP compared with baseline. Treatment with nonaqueous BDP nasal aerosol in a real-world setting significantly improved PAR symptoms and measures of quality of life, work, and school-related activities, and is associated with high patient satisfaction, reduced productivity loss and activity impairment, and improvement in sleep quality.

No direct association among respiratory function, disease control and family functioning in a sample of Mexican children with intermittent asthma.

PubMed

Rodriguez-Orozco, Alain Raimundo; Núñez-Tapia, Rosa María; Ramírez-Silva, Armando; Gómez-Alonso, Carlos

2013-05-15

Asthma has been linked to family disfunctioning and poor control of the disease.This study was conducted to analyze the interactions between the level of intermittent asthma control, family functioning and respiratory function and between quality of life of asthmatic patients and their caregivers.7 to 15 years old children with intermittent asthma were included. Asthma Control Test Questionnaire, Pediatric Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (PAQLQ) test, and flowmetry were applied to children and Pediatric Asthma Caregiver´s Quatily of Life Questionnaire (PAQCLQ) and the Family Functioning Perception Test (FF-SIL) were applied to their parents.The most affected areas of family functioning in dysfunctional families were adaptability and permeability. A medium to high strength of association was founded between the emotional function of parents and the emotional function of children, R2=0.552. The most remarkable associations were among parents' limitation of activities and parents' emotional function (r=0.837), parents' limitation of activities and child's emotional function (r=0.722), parents' emotional role and limitation of activities (r=0.837), parents' emotional role and emotional functioning of children with asthma (r=0.743) and the limitation of activities of children with asthma and the emotional function of children with asthma (r=0.870).No direct associations were founded among respiratory function, disease control and family functioning in Mexican children with intermittent asthma and emotional function of parents and children were associated in both groups.

Effects of robot-assisted upper limb rehabilitation on daily function and real-world arm activity in patients with chronic stroke: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Liao, Wan-Wen; Wu, Ching-Yi; Hsieh, Yu-Wei; Lin, Keh-Chung; Chang, Wan-Ying

2012-02-01

To compare the outcome of robot-assisted therapy with dose-matched active control therapy by using accelerometers to study functional recovery in chronic stroke patients. Prospective, randomized, controlled trial. Stroke units in three medical centres. Twenty patients post stroke for a mean of 22 months. Robot-assisted therapy (n = 10) or dose-matched active control therapy (n = 10). All patients received either of these two therapies for 90-105 minutes each day, 5 days per week, for four weeks. Outcome measures included arm activity ratio (the ratio of mean activity between the impaired and unimpaired arm) and scores on the Fugl-Meyer Assessment Scale, Functional Independence Measure, Motor Activity Log and ABILHAND questionnaire. The robot-assisted therapy group significantly increased motor function, hemiplegic arm activity and bilateral arm coordination (Fugl-Meyer Assessment Scale: 51.20 ± 8.82, P = 0.002; mean arm activity ratio: 0.76 ± 0.10, P = 0.026; ABILHAND questionnaire: 1.24 ± 0.28, P = 0.043) compared with the dose-matched active control group (Fugl-Meyer Assessment Scale: 40.90 ± 13.14; mean arm movement ratio: 0.69 ± 0.11; ABILHAND questionnaire: 0.95 ± 0.43). Symmetrical and bilateral robotic practice, combined with functional task training, can significantly improve motor function, arm activity, and self-perceived bilateral arm ability in patients late after stroke.

Dry eyes and AIs: If you don't ask you won't find out.

PubMed

Inglis, Holly; Boyle, Frances M; Friedlander, Michael L; Watson, Stephanie L

2015-12-01

Our objective was to investigate the hypothesis that women on adjuvant aromatase inhibitors (AIs) for treatment of breast cancer have a higher prevalence of dry eye syndrome (DES) compared with controls. Exposure and control groups were recruited. A cross sectional questionnaire-based study was performed. Demographic data and medical histories were collected. The presence of dry eye syndrome was determined by the ocular surface disease index (OSDI). The Functional Assessment of Cancer Treatment - Endocrine Subscale (FACT-ES) was performed to investigate correlations with other side effects of AIs. 93 exposure group and 100 control group questionnaires were included. The groups were similar in all demographic variables. The prevalence of dry eye syndrome was 35% (exposure) and 18% (control) (p < 0.01, OR 2.5). AIs were the only factor associated with dry eyes. The OSDI score was negatively correlated with the total FACT-ES score and positively correlated with duration of treatment. Our study is the first to use a validated questionnaire to assess for DES in this population. DES is significantly more prevalent in women on AIs compared with controls. This is a newly emerging, and easily treated side effect of AIs. Self-reporting of dry eye symptoms underestimates the prevalence of DES with AIs. We recommend routine screening of patients on AIs with the OSDI with the aim of improving patient quality of life and possibly adherence. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

[Quality of life and physical activity of patients with inflammatory bowel diseases].

PubMed

Nowak, Agata; Kucio, Cezary

2015-01-01

Estimation of the quality of life of patients with inflammatory bowel diseases and comparison these results with control group. A group of 16 patients with inflammatory bowel diseases and 13 healthy persons as a control group. In orderto estimate the quality of life, polish version of Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire (IBDQ) was used. The Second questionnaire that was used is WHOQOL-BREF (The World Health Organization Quality of Life). To assess the level of physical activity was applied the Minnesota Leisure Time Physical Activity Questionnaire (MLTPAQ). All the results have been correlated to answer the question if there is any relationship between the quality of life and physical activity and if level of these parameters is different in control group. In the group of patients the lowest level of functioning were stated on bowel ailments field and emotional field. The most important roles in patients life are social relationship and sanity. The higher level of the caloric consumption was stated in the group of patients with inflammatory bowel diseases in comparison to control group. There was no significant difference in caloric consumption related with the recreation and house works. Because of the fact that all of the patients were in the remission period, it was impossible to verify if there is any relationship between quality of life and the stage of disease. The results of researches have not proved relationship between the level of physical activity and the quality of life among the patients as well as in the control group.

Psychosocial work conditions, unemployment and self-reported psychological health: a population-based study.

PubMed

Lindström, Martin

2005-10-01

To investigate the association between psychosocial conditions at work, unemployment and self-reported psychological health. A cross-sectional postal questionnaire for the 2000 public health survey in Scania was administered to both working and unemployed people aged 18-64 years. Logistic regression models were used to investigate the association between psychosocial factors at work/unemployment and self-reported psychological health (General Health Questionnaire 12). Psychosocial conditions at work were classified according to the Karasek-Theorell demand-control/decision latitudes into relaxed, active, passive and job strain. The multivariate analyses included age, country of origin, education, economic stress and social participation. A total of 5180 people returned their questionnaire, giving a participation rate of 59%. Fifteen per cent of men and 20% of women reported poor psychological health. Those with high demands and high control (active category), those with high demands and low control (job strain category) and the unemployed had significantly higher odds ratios of poor psychological health compared to those with low demands and high control (relaxed category). Those with low demands and low control (passive category) did not differ significantly from the relaxed category. The associations remained in the multivariate analyses. The study found that certain psychosocial work factors are associated with higher levels of self-reported psychological ill-health and illustrates the great importance of psychosocial conditions in determining psychological health at the population level. As found elsewhere, being unemployed was an even stronger predictor of psychological ill-health.

Positive and negative affect in individuals with spinal cord injuries.

PubMed

Salter, J E; Smith, S D; Ethans, K D

2013-03-01

Participants with spinal cord injuries (SCIs) and healthy controls completed standardized questionnaires assessing depression level, positive and negative affect, and personality traits. To identify the specific characteristics of emotional experiences affected by spinal cord injury. A Canadian rehabilitation center. Individuals with SCIs were recruited from a list of patients who had volunteered to participate in studies being conducted by the SCI clinic. Healthy controls were recruited from the community, but tested in the SCI clinic. Thirty-six individuals with complete (ASIA A) SCIs and 36 age-, gender- and education-matched controls participated in this study. SCI participants were classified as cervical (C1-C7), upper thoracic (T1-T5) or lower thoracic/upper lumbar (T6-L2). All participants completed the Beck Depression Inventory, the Positive and Negative Affect Schedules, the NEO Neuroticism Questionnaire, and the harm avoidance scale of the Tridimensional Personality Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using independent-samples t-tests (when contrasting SCI and controls) and analysis of variance (when comparing across SCI groups). Participants with SCIs experienced significantly less positive affect than controls. The two groups did not differ in their experience of negative affect. Participants with SCIs also reported greater levels of depression. Depression scores improved with an increasing number of years post injury. Individuals with SCIs are characterized by specific emotional dysfunction related to the experience of positive emotions, rather than a tendency to ruminate on negative emotions. The results suggest that these individuals would benefit from rehabilitation programs that include training in positive psychology.