Proteomic Investigation of the Response of Enterococcus faecalis V583 when Cultivated in Urine.

PubMed

Arntzen, Magnus Øverlie; Karlskås, Ingrid Lea; Skaugen, Morten; Eijsink, Vincent G H; Mathiesen, Geir

2015-01-01

Enterococcus faecalis is a robust bacterium, which is able to survive in and adapt to hostile environments such as the urinary tract and bladder. In this label-free quantitative proteomic study based on MaxQuant LFQ algorithms, we identified 127 proteins present in the secretome of the clinical vancomycin-resistant isolate E. faecalis V583 and we compared proteins secreted in the initial phase of cultivation in urine with the secretome during cultivation in standard laboratory medium, 2xYT. Of the 54 identified proteins predicted to be secreted, six were exclusively found after cultivation in urine including the virulence factor EfaA ("endocarditis specific antigen") and its homologue EF0577 ("adhesion lipoprotein"). These two proteins are both involved in manganese transport, known to be an important determinant of colonization and infection, and may additionally function as adhesins. Other detected urine-specific proteins are involved in peptide transport (EF0063 and EF3106) and protease inhibition (EF3054). In addition, we found an uncharacterized protein (EF0764), which had not previously been linked to the adaptation of V583 to a urine environment, and which is unique to E. faecalis. Proteins found in both environments included a histone-like protein, EF1550, that was up-regulated during cultivation in urine and that has a homologue in streptococci (HlpA) known to be involved in bacterial adhesion to host cells. Up-regulated secreted proteins included autolysins. These results from secretome analyses are largely compatible with previously published data from transcriptomics studies. All in all, the present data indicate that transport, in particular metal transport, adhesion, cell wall remodelling and the unknown function carried out by the unique EF0764 are important for enterococcal adaptation to the urine environment. These results provide a basis for a more targeted exploration of novel proteins involved in the adaptability and pathogenicity of E. faecalis.

Machine Learning-based Classification of Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma Patients by Their Protein Expression Profiles.

PubMed

Deeb, Sally J; Tyanova, Stefka; Hummel, Michael; Schmidt-Supprian, Marc; Cox, Juergen; Mann, Matthias

2015-11-01

Characterization of tumors at the molecular level has improved our knowledge of cancer causation and progression. Proteomic analysis of their signaling pathways promises to enhance our understanding of cancer aberrations at the functional level, but this requires accurate and robust tools. Here, we develop a state of the art quantitative mass spectrometric pipeline to characterize formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues of patients with closely related subtypes of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. We combined a super-SILAC approach with label-free quantification (hybrid LFQ) to address situations where the protein is absent in the super-SILAC standard but present in the patient samples. Shotgun proteomic analysis on a quadrupole Orbitrap quantified almost 9,000 tumor proteins in 20 patients. The quantitative accuracy of our approach allowed the segregation of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma patients according to their cell of origin using both their global protein expression patterns and the 55-protein signature obtained previously from patient-derived cell lines (Deeb, S. J., D'Souza, R. C., Cox, J., Schmidt-Supprian, M., and Mann, M. (2012) Mol. Cell. Proteomics 11, 77-89). Expression levels of individual segregation-driving proteins as well as categories such as extracellular matrix proteins behaved consistently with known trends between the subtypes. We used machine learning (support vector machines) to extract candidate proteins with the highest segregating power. A panel of four proteins (PALD1, MME, TNFAIP8, and TBC1D4) is predicted to classify patients with low error rates. Highly ranked proteins from the support vector analysis revealed differential expression of core signaling molecules between the subtypes, elucidating aspects of their pathobiology. © 2015 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

Content and psychometric evaluations of questionnaires for assessing physical function in people with neck disorders: a systematic review of the literature.

PubMed

Wiitavaara, Birgitta; Heiden, Marina

2017-06-02

The purpose was to investigate how physical function is assessed in people with musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) in the neck. Specifically, we aimed to determine: (1) Which questionnaires are used to assess physical function in people with MSD in the neck? (2) What do those questionnaires measure? (3) What are the measurement properties of the questionnaires? A systematic review was performed to identify questionnaires and psychometric evaluations. The content of the questionnaires was categorized according to the International Classification of Function, Disability and Health, and the psychometric properties were quality-rated using the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments checklist. Ten questionnaires and 32 articles evaluating measurement properties were analyzed. Most questionnaires covered only the components body functions and activity and participation, more often activity participation than body function. Internal consistency was adequate in most questionnaires, whereas responsiveness was generally low. Neck Disability Index was most evaluated, but the evaluations of all questionnaires tended to cover most properties in the checklist. The questionnaires differed substantially in items and extent to which their psychometric properties had been evaluated. Focus of measurement was on activities in daily life rather than physical function as such. Implications for Rehabilitation To provide early diagnostics and effective treatment for patients with neck disorders, valid and reliable instruments that measure relevant aspects of the disorders are needed. This paper presents an overview of content and quality of questionnaires used to assess physical function in neck disorders, which may facilitate informed decisions about which measurement instruments to use when evaluating the course of neck disorders. Most of the questionnaires need more testing to judge the quality, however the NDI was the most frequently tested questionnaire. The COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments checklist is a useful tool in relation to psychometric testing of questionnaires, but clear definitions of interpretation of the quality criteria in each study would enhance comparability of results.

Development of a preference-based index from the National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire-25.

PubMed

Rentz, Anne M; Kowalski, Jonathan W; Walt, John G; Hays, Ron D; Brazier, John E; Yu, Ren; Lee, Paul; Bressler, Neil; Revicki, Dennis A

2014-03-01

Understanding how individuals value health states is central to patient-centered care and to health policy decision making. Generic preference-based measures of health may not effectively capture the impact of ocular diseases. Recently, 6 items from the National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire-25 were used to develop the Visual Function Questionnaire-Utility Index health state classification, which defines visual function health states. To describe elicitation of preferences for health states generated from the Visual Function Questionnaire-Utility Index health state classification and development of an algorithm to estimate health preference scores for any health state. Nonintervention, cross-sectional study of the general community in 4 countries (Australia, Canada, United Kingdom, and United States). A total of 607 adult participants were recruited from local newspaper advertisements. In the United Kingdom, an existing database of participants from previous studies was used for recruitment. Eight of 15,625 possible health states from the Visual Function Questionnaire-Utility Index were valued using time trade-off technique. A θ severity score was calculated for Visual Function Questionnaire-Utility Index-defined health states using item response theory analysis. Regression models were then used to develop an algorithm to assign health state preference values for all potential health states defined by the Visual Function Questionnaire-Utility Index. Health state preference values for the 8 states ranged from a mean (SD) of 0.343 (0.395) to 0.956 (0.124). As expected, preference values declined with worsening visual function. Results indicate that the Visual Function Questionnaire-Utility Index describes states that participants view as spanning most of the continuum from full health to dead. Visual Function Questionnaire-Utility Index health state classification produces health preference scores that can be estimated in vision-related studies that include the National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire-25. These preference scores may be of value for estimating utilities in economic and health policy analyses.

Data file of a deep proteome analysis of the prefrontal cortex in aged mice with progranulin deficiency or neuronal overexpression of progranulin.

PubMed

Heidler, Juliana; Hardt, Stefanie; Wittig, Ilka; Tegeder, Irmgard

2016-12-01

Progranulin deficiency is associated with neurodegeneration in humans and in mice. The mechanisms likely involve progranulin-promoted removal of protein waste via autophagy. We performed a deep proteomic screen of the pre-frontal cortex in aged (13-15 months) female progranulin-deficient mice (GRN -/- ) and mice with inducible neuron-specific overexpression of progranulin (SLICK-GRN-OE) versus the respective control mice. Proteins were extracted and analyzed per liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) on a Thermo Scientific™ Q Exactive Plus equipped with an ultra-high performance liquid chromatography unit and a Nanospray Flex Ion-Source. Full Scan MS-data were acquired using Xcalibur and raw files were analyzed using the proteomics software Max Quant. The mouse reference proteome set from uniprot (June 2015) was used to identify peptides and proteins. The DiB data file is a reduced MaxQuant output and includes peptide and protein identification, accession numbers, protein and gene names, sequence coverage and label free quantification (LFQ) values of each sample. Differences in protein expression in genotypes are presented in "Progranulin overexpression in sensory neurons attenuates neuropathic pain in mice: Role of autophagy" (C. Altmann, S. Hardt, C. Fischer, J. Heidler, H.Y. Lim, A. Haussler, B. Albuquerque, B. Zimmer, C. Moser, C. Behrends, F. Koentgen, I. Wittig, M.H. Schmidt, A.M. Clement, T. Deller, I. Tegeder, 2016) [1].

Genomic, proteomic and biochemical analysis of the chitinolytic machinery of Serratia marcescens BJL200.

PubMed

Tuveng, Tina R; Hagen, Live Heldal; Mekasha, Sophanit; Frank, Jeremy; Arntzen, Magnus Øverlie; Vaaje-Kolstad, Gustav; Eijsink, Vincent G H

2017-04-01

The chitinolytic machinery of Serratia marcescens BJL200 has been studied in detail over the last couple of decades, however, the proteome secreted by this Gram-negative bacterium during growth on chitin has not been studied in depth. In addition, the genome of this most studied chitinolytic Serratia strain has until now, not been sequenced. We report a draft genome sequence for S. marcescens BJL200. Using label-free quantification (LFQ) proteomics and a recently developed plate-method for assessing secretomes during growth on solid substrates, we find that, as expected, the chitin-active enzymes (ChiA, B, C, and CBP21) are produced in high amounts when the bacterium grows on chitin. Other proteins produced in high amounts after bacterial growth on chitin provide interesting targets for further exploration of the proteins involved in degradation of chitin-rich biomasses. The genome encodes a fourth chitinase (ChiD), which is produced in low amounts during growth on chitin. Studies of chitin degradation with mixtures of recombinantly produced chitin-degrading enzymes showed that ChiD does not contribute to the overall efficiency of the process. ChiD is capable of converting N,N'-diacetyl chitobiose to N-acetyl glucosamine, but is less efficient than another enzyme produced for this purpose, the Chitobiase. Thus, the role of ChiD in chitin degradation, if any, remains unclear. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Comparison of the functional rating index and the 18-item Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire: responsiveness and reliability.

PubMed

Chansirinukor, Wunpen; Maher, Christopher G; Latimer, Jane; Hush, Julia

2005-01-01

Retrospective design. To compare the responsiveness and test-retest reliability of the Functional Rating Index and the 18-item version of the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire in detecting change in disability in patients with work-related low back pain. Many low back pain-specific disability questionnaires are available, including the Functional Rating Index and the 18-item version of the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire. No previous study has compared the responsiveness and reliability of these questionnaires. Files of patients who had been treated for work-related low back pain at a physical therapy clinic were reviewed, and those containing initial and follow-up Functional Rating Index and 18-item Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaires were selected. The responsiveness of both questionnaires was compared using two different methods. First, using the assumption that patients receiving treatment improve over time, various responsiveness coefficients were calculated. Second, using change in work status as an external criterion to identify improved and nonimproved patients, Spearman's rho and receiver operating characteristic curves were calculated. Reliability was estimated from the subset of patients who reported no change in their condition over this period and expressed with the intraclass correlation coefficient and the minimal detectable change. One hundred and forty-three patient files were retrieved. The responsiveness coefficients for the Functional Rating Index were greater than for the 18-item Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire. The intraclass correlation coefficient values for both questionnaires calculated from 96 patient files were similar, but the minimal detectable change for the Functional Rating Index was less than for the 18-item Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire. The Functional Rating Index seems preferable to the 18-item Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire for use in clinical trials and clinical practice.

Translation, cultural adaptation and reproducibility of the Cochin Hand Functional Scale questionnaire for Brazil

PubMed Central

Chiari, Aline; de Souza Sardim, Carla Caires; Natour, Jamil

2011-01-01

OBJECTIVE: To translate, to perform a cultural adaptation of and to test the reproducibility of the Cochin Hand Functional Scale questionnaire for Brazil. METHODS: First, the Cochin Hand Functional Scale questionnaire was translated into Portuguese and was then back-translated into French. These translations were reviewed by a committee to establish a Brazilian version of the questionnaire to be tested. The validity and reproducibility of the Cochin Hand Functional Scale questionnaire was evaluated. Patients of both sexes, who were aged 18 to 60 years and presented with rheumatoid arthritis affecting their hands, were interviewed. The patients were initially interviewed by two observers and were later interviewed by a single rater. First, the Visual Analogue Scale for hand pain, the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Disability questionnaire and the Health Assessment Questionnaire were administered. The third administration of the Cochin Hand Functional Scale was performed fifteen days after the first administration. Ninety patients were assessed in the present study. RESULTS: Two questions were modified as a result of the assessment of cultural equivalence. The Cronbach's alpha value for this assessment was 0.93. The intraclass intraobserver and interobserver correlation coefficients were 0.76 and 0.96, respectively. The Spearman's coefficient indicated that there was a low level of correlation between the Cochin Hand Functional Scale and the Visual Analogue Scale for pain (0.46) and that there was a moderate level of correlation of the Cochin Scale with the Health Assessment Questionnaire (0.66) and with the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (0.63). The average administration time for the Cochin Scale was three minutes. CONCLUSION: The Brazilian version of the Cochin Hand Functional Scale was successfully translated and adapted, and this version exhibited good internal consistency, reliability and construct validity. PMID:21789372

Most efficient questionnaires to measure quality of life, physical function, and pain in patients with metastatic spine disease: a cross-sectional prospective survey study.

PubMed

Paulino Pereira, Nuno Rui; Janssen, Stein J; Raskin, Kevin A; Hornicek, Francis J; Ferrone, Marco L; Shin, John H; Bramer, Jos A M; van Dijk, Cornelis Nicolaas; Schwab, Joseph H

2017-07-01

Assessing quality of life, functional outcome, and pain has become important in assessing the effectiveness of treatment for metastatic spine disease. Many questionnaires are able to measure these outcomes; few are validated in patients with metastatic spine disease. As a result, there is no consensus on the ideal questionnaire to use in these patients. Our study aim was to assess whether certain questionnaires measuring quality of life, functional outcome, and pain (1) correlated with each other, (2) measured the construct they claim to measure, (3) had good coverage-floor and ceiling effects, (4) were reliable, and (5) whether there were differences in completion time between them. This is a prospective cross-sectional survey study from three outpatient clinics (two orthopedic oncology clinics and one neurosurgery clinic) from two affiliated tertiary hospital care centers. We included 100 consecutive patients with metastatic spine disease between July 2014 and February 2016. We excluded non-English-speaking patients. The following questionnaires were given in random order: Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) or Neck Disability Index (NDI), Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Physical Function, PROMIS Pain Intensity, EuroQol-5 Dimensions (EQ-5D), and the Spine Oncology Study Group Outcome Questionnaire (SOSG-OQ). We used exploratory factor analysis-correlating questionnaires with an underlying mathematically derived trait-to assess if questionnaires measured the same concept. Coverage was assessed by floor and ceiling effects, and reliability was assessed by standard error of measurement as a function of ability. Differences in completion times were tested using the Friedman test. Questionnaires measured the construct they were developed for, as demonstrated with high correlations (>0.7) with the underlying trait. A floor effect was present in the PROMIS Pain Intensity (7.0%), ODI or NDI (4.0%), and the PROMIS Physical Function (1.0%) questionnaires. A ceiling effect was present in the EQ-5D questionnaire (6.0%). The SOSG-OQ had no floor or ceiling effect. The PROMIS Physical Function and PROMIS Pain Intensity proved to be the most reliable, whereas the EQ-5D was the least reliable. Completion time differed among questionnaires (p<.001) and was shortest for the PROMIS Pain Intensity (median 24 seconds) and PROMIS Physical Function (median 42 seconds). In patients with metastatic spine disease, we recommend the SOSG-OQ for measuring quality of life, the PROMIS Physical Function for measuring physical function, and the PROMIS Pain Intensity for measuring pain. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Comparison of the Membrane Proteome of Virulent Mycobacterium tuberculosis and the Attenuated Mycobacterium bovis BCG Vaccine Strain by Label-free Quantitative Proteomics

PubMed Central

Gunawardena, Harsha P.; Feltcher, Meghan E.; Wrobel, John A.; Gu, Sheng; Braunstein, Miriam; Chen, Xian

2015-01-01

The Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) membrane is rich in antigens that are potential targets for diagnostics and the development of new vaccines. To better understand the mechanisms underlying MTB virulence and identify new targets for therapeutic intervention we investigated the differential composition of membrane proteomes between virulent M. tuberculosis H37Rv (MTB) and the Mycobacterium bovis BCG vaccine strain. To compare the membrane proteomes, we used LC-MS/MS analysis in combination with label-free quantitative (LFQ) proteomics, utilizing the area-under-curve (AUC) of the extracted ion chromatograms (XIC) of peptides obtained from m/z and retention time alignment of MS1 features. With this approach, we obtained relative abundance ratios for 2,203 identified membrane-associated proteins in high confidence. Of these proteins, 294 showed statistically significant differences of at least 2 fold, in relative abundance between MTB and BCG membrane fractions. Our comparative analysis detected several proteins associated with known genomic regions of difference between MTB and BCG as being absent, which validated the accuracy of our approach. In further support of our label-free quantitative data, we verified select protein differences by immunoblotting. To our knowledge we have generated the first comprehensive and high coverage profile of comparative membrane proteome changes between virulent MTB and its attenuated relative BCG, which helps elucidate the proteomic basis of the intrinsic virulence of the MTB pathogen. PMID:24093440

Erectile function in cardiovascular patients: its significance and a quick assessment using a visual-scale questionnaire.

PubMed

Glavaš, Sandra; Valenčić, Lara; Trbojević, Natasa; Tomašić, Ana-Marija; Turčić, Nikolina; Tibauth, Sara; Ružić, Alen

2015-12-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the connection between erectile dysfunction (ED) and cardiovascular diseases and to test a novel visual-scale questionnaire (VEF) we propose for the assessment of erectile function. Erectile function was assessed in 170 male cardiovascular patients under the age of 70 by the use of several self-administered questionnaires: the International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5); the Massachusetts Male Aging Study questionnaires (MMAS Sexual Activity Questionnaire and MMAS Single Question), and finally, VEF. Patients’ mean age was 55.65 ± 9.97 y. The most common indications for hospitalization were coronary artery disease (CAD) (n = 82, 48%), and decompensated chronic heart failure (n = 30, 18%). The prevalence of ED as determined by IIEF-5 was 58% (n = 99). Patients with ED were on average 5.7 years older (P = 0.0001), had a higher frequency of diabetes (by 19%, P < 0.01), and a somewhat higher level of uric acid (by 72 μmol/l, P < 0.01). Results of the VEF correlated significantly with those of other questionnaires. Three different machine learning algorithms demonstrated a greater accuracy of VEF than IIEF-5 and MMAS Sexual Activity Questionnaire in predicting ED severity. ED is highly prevalent among cardiovascular patients. The Visual Scale Erectile Function questionnaire (VEF) is a simple and valid tool, suitable for quick screening of this condition.

A telephone questionnaire in order to assess functional outcome after post-traumatic limb salvage surgery: Development and preliminary validation.

PubMed

Wulterkens, Leonie; Aurégan, Jean-Charles; Letellier, Thomas; Mebtouche, Nasser; Levante, Stéphane; Cottin, Philippe; Bégué, Thierry

2015-12-01

Post-traumatic limb salvage surgery is challenging and evaluation of the results remains arduous. No questionnaire specifically assessing functional outcome after post-traumatic limb salvage surgery of the lower extremity exists. Due to regionalization of specialized care, the patients' travel time to the hospital increases. To overcome a higher patients' travel burden, patients' follow up by telephone is an option. We aimed to develop a telephone questionnaire in order to assess functional outcome after post-traumatic limb salvage surgery of the lower extremity. From a review of scores of functional assessment of the lower limb surgery, we have developed a telephone questionnaire. A prospective study was performed to validate this telephone questionnaire. Twenty patients were included. The participants were called to complete the telephone questionnaire twice with an interval of a week. The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) was completed during the second telephone call. The internal consistency was analyzed by the Cronbach's alpha (α). With the outcome scores of both completions, the test-retest reliability was analyzed by the interclass correlation coefficient (ICC) 2,k with a 95% confidence interval (95% CI). The outcome scores of the second telephone questionnaire and the WOMAC questionnaire were used for the construct validity analysis by the Spearman's rank correlation coefficient (r(s)) with a 95% CI. The internal consistency analysis revealed a α=0.62 which improved to α=0.92 after removing one question from the telephone questionnaire. The final version of the telephone questionnaire comprises 32 questions, divided in 3 subscales: function, daily life and psychology. The total score varies between 0 and 86 points. The test-retest reliability was ICC 2,k=0.93 (95% CI: 0.82-0.97) and the construct validity was r(s)=0.92 (95% CI: 0.81-0.97). We present a specific telephone questionnaire in order to assess functional outcomes after posttraumatic limb salvage surgery of the lower extremity. Further research on a large number of patients will be necessary to validate this newly developed questionnaire. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

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

Spirituality and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health: content comparison of questionnaires measuring mindfulness based on the International Classification of Functioning.

PubMed

Offenbächer, Martin; Sauer, Sebastian; Hieblinger, Robin; Hufford, David J; Walach, Harald; Kohls, Niko

2011-01-01

To identify and compare the concepts contained in questionnaires measuring mindfulness using the International Classification of Functioning (ICF) as external reference. Questionnaires which are published in peer-reviewed journals and listed in Pubmed or PsycInfo were included. The questionnaires were analysed and, using a content-analytical approach, the respective items were categorised and linked to the ICF. Ten questionnaires were included. Ninety-four per cent (N = 341) of the concepts could be linked to 37 different ICF categories. One hundred and seventy-one (50.1%) concepts were linked to ICF categories of the component Body Function, 74 (21.7%) to categories of the component Activity and Participation and none to categories of the component Environmental Factors. In total, 28.2% of the linked concepts belonged to Personal factors, which are not yet classified in the ICF. The questionnaires exhibited considerable differences regarding content density (i.e. the average number of concepts per item) and content diversity (i.e. the number of ICF categories per concept). The ICF provides an useful external reference to identify and compare the concepts contained in mindfulness questionnaires. Also, mindfulness questionnaire concepts suggest potentially useful factors for classification within the ICF.

Reliability and validity of simplified Chinese version of Swiss Spinal Stenosis Questionnaire for patients with degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis.

PubMed

Yi, Honglei; Wei, Xianzhao; Zhang, Wei; Chen, Ziqiang; Wang, Xinhui; Ji, Xinran; Zhu, Xiaodong; Wang, Fei; Xu, Ximing; Li, Zhikun; Fan, Jianping; Wang, Chuanfeng; Chen, Kai; Zhang, Guoyou; Zhao, Yinchuan; Li, Ming

2014-05-01

This was a prospective clinical validation study. To evaluate the reliability and validity of the adapted simplified Chinese version of Swiss Spinal Stenosis (SC-SSS) Questionnaire. The SSS Questionnaire is a reliable and valid instrument to assess the perception of function and pain for patients with degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis. However, there is no culturally adapted SSS Questionnaire for use in mainland China. This was a prospective clinical validation study. The adaption was conducted according to International Quality of Life Assessment Project guidelines. To examine the psychometric properties of the adapted SC-SSS Questionnaire, a sample of 105 patients with lumbar spinal stenosis were included. Thirty-two patients were randomly selected to evaluate the test-retest reliability. Reliability assessment of the SC-SSS Questionnaire was determined by calculating Cronbach α and intraclass coefficient values. Concurrent validity was assessed by correlating SC-SSS Questionnaire scores with relevant domains of the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey. Cronbach α of the symptom severity scale, physical function scale, patients, and satisfaction scale of SC-SSS Questionnaire are 0.89, 0.86, 0.91, respectively, which revealed very good internal consistency. The test-retest reproducibility was found to be excellent with the intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.93, 0.91, and 0.95. In terms of concurrent validity, SC-SSS Questionnaire had good correlation with physical functioning and bodily pain of 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (r = 0.663, 0.653) and low correlation with mental health (r = 0.289). The physical function scale had good correlation with physical functioning of 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (r = 0.637), whereas the rest had moderate correlation. The satisfaction scale score was highly correlated with the change in the symptom severity (r = 0.71) and physical function (r = 0.68) scale score. The SC-SSS Questionnaire showed satisfactory reliability and validity in the evaluation of functionality in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis who are experiencing neurogenic claudication. It is simple and easy to use and can be recommended in clinical and research practice in mainland China. 3.

24 CFR 901.100 - Data collection.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

..., by submitting a certified questionnaire within 60 calendar days after the end of the fiscal year... functions assumed by the RMC. The PHA shall obtain a certified questionnaire from the RMC as to the management functions undertaken by the RMC. The PHA shall submit the RMC's certified questionnaire along with...

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.

Impaired work functioning due to common mental disorders in nurses and allied health professionals: the Nurses Work Functioning Questionnaire.

PubMed

Gärtner, F R; Nieuwenhuijsen, K; van Dijk, F J H; Sluiter, J K

2012-02-01

Common mental disorders (CMD) negatively affect work functioning. In the health service sector not only the prevalence of CMDs is high, but work functioning problems are associated with a risk of serious consequences for patients and healthcare providers. If work functioning problems due to CMDs are detected early, timely help can be provided. Therefore, the aim of this study is to develop a detection questionnaire for impaired work functioning due to CMDs in nurses and allied health professionals working in hospitals. First, an item pool was developed by a systematic literature study and five focus group interviews with employees and experts. To evaluate the content validity, additional interviews were held. Second, a cross-sectional assessment of the item pool in 314 nurses and allied health professionals was used for item selection and for identification and corroboration of subscales by explorative and confirmatory factor analysis. The study results in the Nurses Work Functioning Questionnaire (NWFQ), a 50-item self-report questionnaire consisting of seven subscales: cognitive aspects of task execution, impaired decision making, causing incidents at work, avoidance behavior, conflicts and irritations with colleagues, impaired contact with patients and their family, and lack of energy and motivation. The questionnaire has a proven high content validity. All subscales have good or acceptable internal consistency. The Nurses Work Functioning Questionnaire gives insight into precise and concrete aspects of impaired work functioning of nurses and allied health professionals. The scores can be used as a starting point for purposeful interventions.

Questionnaires in the assessment of sexual function in women with urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse.

PubMed

Mestre, M; Lleberia, J; Pubill, J; Espuña-Pons, M

2015-04-01

Integrating sexual health in clinical practice is important. In women with pelvic floor disorders, the evaluation of the anatomical defects, lower urinary tract function and the anorectal function often receives more attention than the sexual function. Review of Medline using defined search terms to identify articles related to sexual health assessment in urogynecology and manual analyses was performed. Only articles published in English or Spanish were included. Only 50% of women attending urogynecological clinics are sexually active. Of those, 60% present with some sort of sexual sexual dysfunction (FSD). Questionnaires and sexuality scales would facilitate discussion of sexual matters between the Health Care professionals and the women, and may increase the likelihood of FSD being diagnosed. The Pelvic Organ Prolapse Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire (PISQ) and the PISQ-IR (IUGA-Revised) are the only female sexual function specific questionnaires currently validated and developed specifically to assess sexual function in women with urinary incontinence and/or pelvic organ prolapse. Furthermore, the PISQ-IR also allows evaluation of the outcomes of women who are not sexually active when requiring urogynecologic care. PISQ-IR is also designed for international validation. In order to use the PISQ-IR in Spain, a proper interpretation and validation of the questionnaire is needed. The evaluation of sexual function through specific questionnaires facilitates the identification of the sexual dysfunctions associated to the pelvic floor disorders. The inclusion of sexuality questionnaires as an outcome measure allows to analyze the impact in the sexual life of women treated for an urogynecological problem. Copyright © 2014 AEU. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Critical appraisal of questionnaires to assess functional impairment in individuals with mild cognitive impairment.

PubMed

Kaur, Navaldeep; Belchior, Patricia; Gelinas, Isabelle; Bier, Nathalie

2016-09-01

Mild deficits in instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) have consistently been reported in the individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). A variety of functional assessment tools, including self-and informant report questionnaires and performance-based measures, have been employed in MCI. Previously, a limited focus has been directed at appraising the quality of questionnaires. The goal of this study was to identify the questionnaires that have been validated in the MCI population. Additionally, the quality of validation studies and psychometric attributes of these questionnaires were appraised. Relevant articles were systematically searched in PsychINFO, Ovid MEDLINE, and CINAHL against specific eligibility criteria. To evaluate the methodology of the psychometric studies, the COSMIN checklist was employed. Also, the psychometric properties of the assessment tools were evaluated based upon Terwee's criteria. A total of five psychometric studies and questionnaires were critically evaluated. Varying psychometric properties were available for the chosen tools. None of the studies received the best possible rating for their methodological quality. It was found that questionnaires with high discriminative ability to distinguish MCI from other diagnostic groups were: Disability Assessment in Dementia-6 (DAD-6), Functional Activity Questionnaire (FAQ), and Alzheimer's Disease Cooperative Study/Activities of Daily Living scale adapted for MCI patients (ADCS-MCI-ADL-24). Psychometric studies with strong methodological rigor are required in the future. Considering the fact that IADL decline has been associated with dementia, early detection of functional difficulties in MCI needs to be encouraged as it will allow suitable and timely interventions to prolong functional independence of affected individuals.

Benchmarks for multidimensional recovery after burn injury in young adults: the development, validation, and testing of the American Burn Association/Shriners Hospitals for Children young adult burn outcome questionnaire.

PubMed

Ryan, Colleen M; Schneider, Jeffrey C; Kazis, Lewis E; Lee, Austin; Li, Nien-Chen; Hinson, Michelle; Bauk, Helena; Peck, Michael; Meyer, Walter J; Palmieri, Tina; Pidcock, Frank S; Reilly, Debra; Tompkins, Ronald G

2013-01-01

Although data exist on burn survival, there are little data on long-term burn recovery. Patient-centered health outcomes are useful in monitoring and predicting recovery and evaluating treatments. An outcome questionnaire for young adult burn survivors was developed and tested. This 5-year (2003-2008) prospective, controlled, multicenter study included burned and nonburned adults ages 19 to 30 years. The Young Adult Burn Outcome Questionnaires were completed at initial contact, 10 days, and 6 and 12 months. Factor analysis established construct validity. Reliability assessments used Cronbach α and test-retest. Recovery patterns were investigated using generalized linear models, with generalized estimating equations using mixed models and random effects. Burned (n = 153) and nonburned subjects (n = 112) completed 620 questionnaires (47 items). Time from injury to first questionnaire administration was 157 ± 36 days (mean ± SEM). Factor analysis included 15 factors: Physical Function, Fine Motor Function, Pain, Itch, Social Function Limited by Physical Function, Perceived Appearance, Social Function Limited by Appearance, Sexual Function, Emotion, Family Function, Family Concern, Satisfaction With Symptom Relief, Satisfaction With Role, Work Reintegration, and Religion. Cronbach α ranged from 0.72 to 0.92, with 11 scales >0.8. Test-retest reliability ranged from 0.29 to 0.94, suggesting changes in underlying health status after burns. Recovery curves in five domains, Itch, Perceived Appearance, Social Function Limited by Appearance, Family Concern, and Satisfaction with Symptom Relief, remained below the reference group at 24 months. The Young Adult Burn Outcome Questionnaire is a reliable and valid instrument for multidimensional functional outcomes assessment. Recovery in some domains was incomplete.

Reliability and validity of the Korean version of the Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment questionnaire for patients with musculoskeletal disorder.

PubMed

Jung, Kyoung-Sim; Jung, Jin-Hwa; In, Tae-Sung; Cho, Hwi-Young

2016-09-01

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to establish the reliability and validity of the Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment questionnaire, which was translated into Korean, for patients with musculoskeletal disorder. [Subjects and Methods] Fifty-five subjects (26 males and 29 females) with musculoskeletal diseases participated in the study. The Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment questionnaire focuses on a limited range of physical functions and includes a dysfunction index and a bother index. Reliability was determined using the intraclass correlation coefficient, and validity was examined by correlating short musculoskeletal function assessment scores with the 36-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) score. [Results] The reliability was 0.97 for the dysfunction index and 0.94 for the bother index. Validity was established by comparison with Korean version of the SF-36. [Conclusion] This study demonstrated that the Korean version of the Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment questionnaire is a reliable and valid instrument for the assessment of musculoskeletal disorders.

Questionnaire-based assessment of executive functioning: Case studies.

PubMed

Kronenberger, William G; Castellanos, Irina; Pisoni, David B

2018-01-01

Delays in the development of executive functioning skills are frequently observed in pediatric neuropsychology populations and can have a broad and significant impact on quality of life. As a result, assessment of executive functioning is often relevant for the development of formulations and recommendations in pediatric neuropsychology clinical work. Questionnaire-based measures of executive functioning behaviors in everyday life have unique advantages and complement traditional neuropsychological measures of executive functioning. Two case studies of children with spina bifida are presented to illustrate the clinical use of a new questionnaire measure of executive and learning-related functioning, the Learning, Executive, and Attention Functioning Scale (LEAF). The LEAF emphasizes clinical utility in assessment by incorporating four characteristics: brevity in administration, breadth of additional relevant content, efficiency of scoring and interpretation, and ease of availability for use. LEAF results were consistent with another executive functioning checklist in documenting everyday behavior problems related to working memory, planning, and organization while offering additional breadth of assessment of domains such as attention, processing speed, and novel problem-solving. These case study results demonstrate the clinical utility of questionnaire-based measurement of executive functioning in pediatric neuropsychology and provide a new measure for accomplishing this goal.

Development, Translation and Validation of Enhanced Asian Rome III Questionnaires for Diagnosis of Functional Bowel Diseases in Major Asian Languages: A Rome Foundation-Asian Neurogastroenterology and Motility Association Working Team Report.

PubMed

Ghoshal, Uday C; Gwee, Kok-Ann; Chen, Minhu; Gong, Xiao R; Pratap, Nitesh; Hou, Xiaohua; Syam, Ari F; Abdullah, Murdani; Bak, Young-Tae; Choi, Myung-Gyu; Gonlachanvit, Sutep; Chua, Andrew S B; Chong, Kuck-Meng; Siah, Kewin T H; Lu, Ching-Liang; Xiong, Lishou; Whitehead, William E

2015-01-01

The development-processes by regional socio-cultural adaptation of an Enhanced Asian Rome III questionnaire (EAR3Q), a cultural adaptation of the Rome III diagnostic questionnaire (R3DQ), and its translation-validation in Asian languages are presented. As English is not the first language for most Asians, translation-validation of EAR3Q is essential. Hence, we aimed to culturally adapt the R3DQ to develop EAR3Q and linguistically validate it to show that the EAR3Q is able to allocate diagnosis according to Rome III criteria. After EAR3Q was developed by Asian experts by consensus, it was translated into Chinese, Hindi-Telugu, Indonesian, Korean and Thai, following Rome Foundation guidelines; these were then validated on native subjects (healthy [n = 60], and patients with irritable bowel syndrome [n = 59], functional dyspepsia [n = 53] and functional constipation [n = 61]) diagnosed by clinicians using Rome III criteria, negative alarm features and investigations. Experts noted words for constipation, bloating, fullness and heartburn, posed difficulty. The English back-translated questionnaires demonstrated concordance with the original EAR3Q. Sensitivity and specificity of the questionnaires were high enough to diagnose respective functional gastrointestinal disorders (gold standard: clinical diagnoses) in most except Korean and Indonesian languages. Questionnaires often uncovered overlapping functional gastrointestinal disorders. Test-retest agreement (kappa) values of the translated questionnaires were high (0.700-1.000) except in Korean (0.300-0.500) and Indonesian (0.100-0.400) languages at the initial and 2-week follow-up visit. Though Chinese, Hindi and Telugu translations were performed well, Korean and Indonesian versions were not. Questionnaires often uncovered overlapping FGIDs, which were quite common.

Identification of Novel Tumor-Associated Cell Surface Sialoglycoproteins in Human Glioblastoma Tumors Using Quantitative Proteomics

PubMed Central

Autelitano, François; Loyaux, Denis; Roudières, Sébastien; Déon, Catherine; Guette, Frédérique; Fabre, Philippe; Ping, Qinggong; Wang, Su; Auvergne, Romane; Badarinarayana, Vasudeo; Smith, Michael; Guillemot, Jean-Claude; Goldman, Steven A.; Natesan, Sridaran; Ferrara, Pascual; August, Paul

2014-01-01

Glioblastoma multiform (GBM) remains clinical indication with significant “unmet medical need”. Innovative new therapy to eliminate residual tumor cells and prevent tumor recurrences is critically needed for this deadly disease. A major challenge of GBM research has been the identification of novel molecular therapeutic targets and accurate diagnostic/prognostic biomarkers. Many of the current clinical therapeutic targets of immunotoxins and ligand-directed toxins for high-grade glioma (HGG) cells are surface sialylated glycoproteins. Therefore, methods that systematically and quantitatively analyze cell surface sialoglycoproteins in human clinical tumor samples would be useful for the identification of potential diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets for malignant gliomas. In this study, we used the bioorthogonal chemical reporter strategy (BOCR) in combination with label-free quantitative mass spectrometry (LFQ-MS) to characterize and accurately quantify the individual cell surface sialoproteome in human GBM tissues, in fetal, adult human astrocytes, and in human neural progenitor cells (NPCs). We identified and quantified a total of 843 proteins, including 801 glycoproteins. Among the 843 proteins, 606 (72%) are known cell surface or secreted glycoproteins, including 156 CD-antigens, all major classes of cell surface receptor proteins, transporters, and adhesion proteins. Our findings identified several known as well as new cell surface antigens whose expression is predominantly restricted to human GBM tumors as confirmed by microarray transcription profiling, quantitative RT-PCR and immunohistochemical staining. This report presents the comprehensive identification of new biomarkers and therapeutic targets for the treatment of malignant gliomas using quantitative sialoglycoproteomics with clinically relevant, patient derived primary glioma cells. PMID:25360666

Identification of novel tumor-associated cell surface sialoglycoproteins in human glioblastoma tumors using quantitative proteomics.

PubMed

Autelitano, François; Loyaux, Denis; Roudières, Sébastien; Déon, Catherine; Guette, Frédérique; Fabre, Philippe; Ping, Qinggong; Wang, Su; Auvergne, Romane; Badarinarayana, Vasudeo; Smith, Michael; Guillemot, Jean-Claude; Goldman, Steven A; Natesan, Sridaran; Ferrara, Pascual; August, Paul

2014-01-01

Glioblastoma multiform (GBM) remains clinical indication with significant "unmet medical need". Innovative new therapy to eliminate residual tumor cells and prevent tumor recurrences is critically needed for this deadly disease. A major challenge of GBM research has been the identification of novel molecular therapeutic targets and accurate diagnostic/prognostic biomarkers. Many of the current clinical therapeutic targets of immunotoxins and ligand-directed toxins for high-grade glioma (HGG) cells are surface sialylated glycoproteins. Therefore, methods that systematically and quantitatively analyze cell surface sialoglycoproteins in human clinical tumor samples would be useful for the identification of potential diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets for malignant gliomas. In this study, we used the bioorthogonal chemical reporter strategy (BOCR) in combination with label-free quantitative mass spectrometry (LFQ-MS) to characterize and accurately quantify the individual cell surface sialoproteome in human GBM tissues, in fetal, adult human astrocytes, and in human neural progenitor cells (NPCs). We identified and quantified a total of 843 proteins, including 801 glycoproteins. Among the 843 proteins, 606 (72%) are known cell surface or secreted glycoproteins, including 156 CD-antigens, all major classes of cell surface receptor proteins, transporters, and adhesion proteins. Our findings identified several known as well as new cell surface antigens whose expression is predominantly restricted to human GBM tumors as confirmed by microarray transcription profiling, quantitative RT-PCR and immunohistochemical staining. This report presents the comprehensive identification of new biomarkers and therapeutic targets for the treatment of malignant gliomas using quantitative sialoglycoproteomics with clinically relevant, patient derived primary glioma cells.

Validity and reliability of a video questionnaire to assess physical function in older adults.

PubMed

Balachandran, Anoop; N Verduin, Chelsea; Potiaumpai, Melanie; Ni, Meng; Signorile, Joseph F

2016-08-01

Self-report questionnaires are widely used to assess physical function in older adults. However, they often lack a clear frame of reference and hence interpreting and rating task difficulty levels can be problematic for the responder. Consequently, the usefulness of traditional self-report questionnaires for assessing higher-level functioning is limited. Video-based questionnaires can overcome some of these limitations by offering a clear and objective visual reference for the performance level against which the subject is to compare his or her perceived capacity. Hence the purpose of the study was to develop and validate a novel, video-based questionnaire to assess physical function in older adults independently living in the community. A total of 61 community-living adults, 60years or older, were recruited. To examine validity, 35 of the subjects completed the video questionnaire, two types of physical performance tests: a test of instrumental activity of daily living (IADL) included in the Short Physical Functional Performance battery (PFP-10), and a composite of 3 performance tests (30s chair stand, single-leg balance and usual gait speed). To ascertain reliability, two-week test-retest reliability was assessed in the remaining 26 subjects who did not participate in validity testing. The video questionnaire showed a moderate correlation with the IADLs (Spearman rho=0.64, p<0.001; 95% CI (0.4, 0.8)), and a lower correlation with the composite score of physical performance tests (Spearman rho=0.49, p<0.01; 95% CI (0.18, 0.7)). The test-retest assessment yielded an intra-class correlation (ICC) of 0.87 (p<0.001; 95% CI (0.70, 0.94)) and a Cronbach's alpha of 0.89 demonstrating good reliability and internal consistency. Our results show that the video questionnaire developed to evaluate physical function in community-living older adults is a valid and reliable assessment tool; however, further validation is needed for definitive conclusions. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Analysis of the effects of removable dentures on the psychological status, quality of life, and masticatory function of the elderly

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dyas, R.; Nathanael, M.; Indrasari, M.; Masulili, C.; Rahardjo, T. B.; Agustin, D.; Hogervorst, E.; Kusdhany, L.

2017-08-01

Older age is a major risk factor for diseases of the teeth and mouth and dementia. Diseases of the teeth and mouth can lead to tooth loss. The use of removable dentures can help the elderly to replace lost teeth; therefore, dentures are expected to improve the masticatory function, quality of life, and psychological status of the elderly. The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of removable denture usage on the improvement of the psychological status, quality of life, and masticatory function of elderly people. The data was obtained from 30 respondents. The patients answered questionnaires before they used the dentures, 2 weeks after they began using dentures, and 2 months after they started wearing dentures. Four different questionnaires were used: EuroQol Five Dimensions questionnaire (EQ-5D) and Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), to measure psychological status; a mastication questionnaire to measure masticatory function; and a validated quality of life questionnaire. Based on the results of this study, it is clear that after 2 months of denture usage, removable dentures in the elderly can significantly improve their quality of life, masticatory function, and psychological status(p<0.05).

A Screening Questionnaire for Asperger Syndrome and Other High-Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorders in School Age Children.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ehlers, Stephan; Gillberg, Christopher; Wing, Lorna

1999-01-01

Presents data on the High-Functioning Autism Spectrum Screening Questionnaire, a 27-item checklist for completion by lay informants when assessing symptoms characteristic of Asperger syndrome and other high-functioning autism spectrum disorders in children and adolescents with normal intelligence or mild mental retardation. Reliability and…

Psychometric properties of self-reported questionnaires for the evaluation of symptoms and functional limitations in individuals with rotator cuff disorders: a systematic review.

PubMed

St-Pierre, Corinne; Desmeules, François; Dionne, Clermont E; Frémont, Pierre; MacDermid, Joy C; Roy, Jean-Sébastien

2016-01-01

To conduct a systematic review of the psychometric properties (reliability, validity and responsiveness) of self-report questionnaires used to assess symptoms and functional limitations of individuals with rotator cuff (RC) disorders. A systematic search in three databases (Cinahl, Medline and Embase) was conducted. Data extraction and critical methodological appraisal were performed independently by three raters using structured tools, and agreement was achieved by consensus. A descriptive synthesis was performed. One-hundred and twenty articles reporting on 11 questionnaires were included. All questionnaires were highly reliable and responsive to change, and showed construct validity; seven questionnaires also shown known-group validity. The minimal detectable change ranged from 6.4% to 20.8% of total score; only two questionnaires (American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeon questionnaire [ASES] and Upper Limb Functional Index [ULFI]) had a measurement error below 10% of global score. Minimal clinically important differences were established for eight questionnaires, and ranged from 8% to 20% of total score. Overall, included questionnaires showed acceptable psychometric properties for individuals with RC disorders. The ASES and ULFI have the smallest absolute error of measurement, while the Western Ontario RC Index is one of the most responsive questionnaires for individuals suffering from RC disorders. All included questionnaires are reliable, valid and responsive for the evaluation of individuals with RC disorders. As all included questionnaires showed good psychometric properties for the targeted population, the choice should be made according to the purpose of the evaluation and to the construct being evaluated by the questionnaire. The WORC, a RC-specific questionnaire, appeared to be more responsive. It should therefore be used to evaluate change in time. If the evaluation is time-limited, shorter questionnaires or short versions should be considered (such as Quick DASH or SST).

Translation and Validation of the Persian Version the Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire.

PubMed

Hassankhani, Golnaz Ghayyem; Moradi, Ali; Birjandinejad, Ali; Vahedi, Ehsan; Kachooei, Amir R; Ebrahimzadeh, Mohammad H

2018-01-01

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is recognized as the most common type of neuropathies. Questionnaires are the method of choice for evaluating patients with CTS. Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (BCTS) is one of the most famous questionnaires that evaluate the functional and symptomatic aspects of CTS. This study was performed to evaluate the validity and reliability of the Persian version of BCTS questionnaire. First, both parts of the original questionnaire (Symptom Severity Scale and Functional Status Scale) were translated into Persian by two expert translators. The translated questionnaire was revised after merging and confirmed by an orthopedic hand surgeon. The confirmed questionnaire was interpreted back into the original language (English) to check for any possible content inequality between the original questionnaire and its final translated version. The final Persian questionnaire was answered by 10 patients suffering from CTS to elucidate its comprehensibility; afterwards, it was filled by 142 participants along with the Persian version of the Quick-DASH questionnaire. After 2 to 6 days, the translated questionnaire was refilled by some of the previous patients who had not received any substantial medical treatment during that period. Among all 142 patients, 13.4 % were male and 86.6 % were female. The reliability of the questionnaire was tested using Cronbach's alpha and Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Cronbach's alpha was 0.859 for symptom severity scale (SSS) and 0.878 for functional status scale (FSS). Also, ICCs were calculated as 0.538 for SSS and 0.773 for FSS. In addition, construct validity of SSS and FSS against QuickDASH were 0.641 and 0.701, respectively. Based on our results, the Persian version of the BCTQ is valid and reliable. Level of evidence: II.

[Intra-rater Reliability for the Questionnaire on Activity Limitations and Participation Restrictions of Children With ADHD].

PubMed

Salamanca Duque, Luisa Matilde; Naranjo Aristizábal, María Mercedes; Gutiérrez Ríos, Gladys Helena; Prieto, Jaime Bayona

2014-03-01

Questionnaires for evaluating activity limitations and participation restrictions in children with ADHD (CLARP-TDAH) has recently been developed in Colombia, based on the suggestions made by the WHO from the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF), allowing clinical evaluation beyond an evaluation of the functionality and functioning of children in their family and school environments. Previous research with the questionnaire proved useful in the multidisciplinary approach of Colombian children with ADHD. This study determines the level of intra-rater reliability for questionnaires CLARP-TDAH Parents and Teachers. The study included a non-random sample of 203 Colombian children attending school and diagnosed with ADHD. Intra-rater reliability and the reproducibility of the results was determined using the Kappa index. The informants were parents and teachers. Kappa values >0.7 were obtained for the intra-rater reliability of the questionnaire domains of CLARP-TDAH Parents, while for CLARP-TDAH Teachers domains these values were >0.8. CLARP-TDAH questionnaires are a tool with a good level of intra-rater reliability, which allows a reliable assessment of activity limitations and participation restrictions in order to determine the level of functioning at home and school. Copyright © 2014 Asociación Colombiana de Psiquiatría. Publicado por Elsevier España. All rights reserved.

Behavioral Assessment: Questionnaires.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wilson, C. Chrisman

1980-01-01

This is a general discussion of the validity, reliability, function, and format of questionnaires designed to measure problem behavior, noncompliance, anxiety, social interaction, hyperactivity, drug use, and sexual behavior. Commonly used questionnaires are cited. (CP)

A systematic review of self-administered questionnaires for the functional assessment of patients with knee disabilities adapted into Spanish.

PubMed

Gómez-Valero, S; García-Pérez, F; Flórez-García, M T; Miangolarra-Page, J C

The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review of self-administered knee-disability functional assessment questionnaires adapted to Spanish, analysing the quality of the transcultural adaptation procedure and the psychometric properties of the new version. A search was conducted in the main biomedical databases to find knee-function assessment scales adapted into Spanish, in order to assess their questionnaire adaptation process as well as their psychometric properties. Ten scales were identified; 3 for lower limb: 2 for any type of pathologies (Lower Limb Functional Index [LLFI]; Lower Extremity Functional Scale [LEFS]) and 1 specific for arthrosis (Arthrosis des Membres Inférieurs et Qualité de vie [AMICAL]); Other 3 for knee and hip pathologies (Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis [WOMAC] index; Osteoarthritis Knee and Hip Quality of Life [OAKHQOL] questionnaire; Hip and Knee Questionnaire [HKQ]), and other 4 for knee: 2 general scales (Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score [KOOS]; Knee Society Clinical Rating System [KSS]) and 2 specifics (Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment [VISA-P] questionnaire for patients with patellar tendinopathy and Kujala Score for patellofemoral pain). The transcultural adaptation procedure was satisfactory, albeit somewhat less rigorous for HKQ and LLFI. In no study were all psychometric properties assessed. Reliability was analyzed in all cases, except in KSS. Validity was measured in all questionnaires. The transcultural adaptation procedure was satisfactory and the psychometric properties analysed were similar to both the original version and other versions adapted to other languages. Copyright © 2017 SECOT. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Psychometric Properties of Questionnaires on Functional Health Status in Oropharyngeal Dysphagia: A Systematic Literature Review

PubMed Central

Speyer, Renée; Cordier, Reinie; Kertscher, Berit; Heijnen, Bas J

2014-01-01

Introduction. Questionnaires on Functional Health Status (FHS) are part of the assessment of oropharyngeal dysphagia. Objective. To conduct a systematic review of the literature on the psychometric properties of English-language FHS questionnaires in adults with oropharyngeal dysphagia. Methods. A systematic search was performed using the electronic databases Pubmed and Embase. The psychometric properties of the questionnaires were determined based on the COSMIN taxonomy of measurement properties and definitions for health-related patient-reported outcomes and the COSMIN checklist using preset psychometric criteria. Results. Three questionnaires were included: the Eating Assessment Tool (EAT-10), the Swallowing Outcome after Laryngectomy (SOAL), and the Self-report Symptom Inventory. The Sydney Swallow Questionnaire (SSQ) proved to be identical to the Modified Self-report Symptom Inventory. All FHS questionnaires obtained poor overall methodological quality scores for most measurement properties. Conclusions. The retrieved FHS questionnaires need psychometric reevaluation; if the overall methodological quality shows satisfactory improvement on most measurement properties, the use of the questionnaires in daily clinic and research can be justified. However, in case of insufficient validity and/or reliability scores, new FHS questionnaires need to be developed using and reporting on preestablished psychometric criteria as recommended in literature. PMID:24877095

Development, Translation and Validation of Enhanced Asian Rome III Questionnaires for Diagnosis of Functional Bowel Diseases in Major Asian Languages: A Rome Foundation-Asian Neurogastroenterology and Motility Association Working Team Report

PubMed Central

Ghoshal, Uday C; Gwee, Kok-Ann; Chen, Minhu; Gong, Xiao R; Pratap, Nitesh; Hou, Xiaohua; Syam, Ari F; Abdullah, Murdani; Bak, Young-Tae; Choi, Myung-Gyu; Gonlachanvit, Sutep; Chua, Andrew S B; Chong, Kuck-Meng; Siah, Kewin T H; Lu, Ching-Liang; Xiong, Lishou; Whitehead, William E

2015-01-01

Background/Aims The development-processes by regional socio-cultural adaptation of an Enhanced Asian Rome III questionnaire (EAR3Q), a cultural adaptation of the Rome III diagnostic questionnaire (R3DQ), and its translation-validation in Asian languages are presented. As English is not the first language for most Asians, translation-validation of EAR3Q is essential. Hence, we aimed to culturally adapt the R3DQ to develop EAR3Q and linguistically validate it to show that the EAR3Q is able to allocate diagnosis according to Rome III criteria. Methods After EAR3Q was developed by Asian experts by consensus, it was translated into Chinese, Hindi-Telugu, Indonesian, Korean, and Thai, following Rome Foundation guidelines; these were then validated on native subjects (healthy [n = 60], and patients with irritable bowel syndrome [n = 59], functional dyspepsia [n = 53] and functional constipation [n = 61]) diagnosed by clinicians using Rome III criteria, negative alarm features and investigations. Results Experts noted words for constipation, bloating, fullness and heartburn, posed difficulty. The English back-translated questionnaires demonstrated concordance with the original EAR3Q. Sensitivity and specificity of the questionnaires were high enough to diagnose respective functional gastrointestinal disorders (gold standard: clinical diagnoses) in most except Korean and Indonesian languages. Questionnaires often uncovered overlapping functional gastrointestinal disorders. Test-retest agreement (kappa) values of the translated questionnaires were high (0.700–1.000) except in Korean (0.300–0.500) and Indonesian (0.100–0.400) languages at the initial and 2-week follow-up visit. Conclusions Though Chinese, Hindi and Telugu translations were performed well, Korean and Indonesian versions were not. Questionnaires often uncovered overlapping FGIDs, which were quite common. PMID:25537673

Reliability and validity of functional health status and health-related quality of life questionnaires in children with recurrent acute otitis media

PubMed Central

Brouwer, Carole N. M.; Schilder, Anne G. M.; van Stel, Henk F.; Rovers, Maroeska M.; Veenhoven, Reinier H.; Grobbee, Diederick E.; Sanders, Elisabeth A. M.

2007-01-01

In this study the reliability and validity of generic and disease-specific questionnaires has been assessed focusing on responsiveness. This is part of a study on the effects of recurrent acute otitis media (rAOM) on functional health status (FHS) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in 383 children with rAOM participating in a randomized clinical trial. The following generic questionnaires were studied: 1. RAND general health rating index, 2. Functional Status Questionnaire (FSQ Generic and FSQ Specific), 3. TNO-AZL Infant Quality of Life (TAIQOL), and the following disease-specific questionnaires: 1. Otitis Media-6 (OM-6), 2. Numerical rating scales (NRS) for child and caregiver (NRS Child and NRS Caregiver), and 3. a new Family Functioning Questionnaire (FFQ). Reliability was good to excellent (Cronbach’s α range 0.80–0.90, intraclass correlation coefficient range 0.76–0.93). Moderate to strong correlations were found between the questionnaires as well as between questionnaires and relevant clinical indicators (r = 0.29–0.49), demonstrating construct validity. Discriminant validity for children with few versus frequent episodes of acute otitis media per year was good for most questionnaires (P < 0.004) but poor for the otitis media-related subscales of the TAIQOL (P = 0.10–0.97) and both NRS (P = 0.22 and 0.48). Except for the TAIQOL subscales, change scores were significant (P < 0.003) for generic and disease-specific questionnaires. Effect sizes were somewhat higher for disease-specific compared to generic questionnaires (0.55–0.95 versus 0.32–0.60) except for the TAIQOL subscales, which showed very poor sensitivity to change. Anchor-based methods resulted in a somewhat larger range of estimates of MCID than distribution-based methods. Combining distribution-based and anchor-based methods resulted in similar ranges for the minimally clinical important differences for generic and disease-specific questionnaires: 2–15 points on a 0–100 scale. Apart from the generic TAIQOL subscales, both generic and disease-specific questionnaires used in this study showed good psychometric qualities and responsiveness for use in clinical studies on children with rAOM. PMID:17668290

COPD management: role of symptom assessment in routine clinical practice

PubMed Central

van der Molen, Thys; Miravitlles, Marc; Kocks, Janwillem WH

2013-01-01

Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) present with a variety of symptoms that significantly impair health-related quality of life. Despite this, COPD treatment and its management are mainly based on lung function assessments. There is increasing evidence that conventional lung function measures alone do not correlate well with COPD symptoms and their associated impact on patients’ everyday lives. Instead, symptoms should be assessed routinely, preferably by using patient-centered questionnaires that provide a more accurate guide to the actual burden of COPD. Numerous questionnaires have been developed in an attempt to find a simple and reliable tool to use in everyday clinical practice. In this paper, we review three such patient-reported questionnaires recommended by the latest Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease guidelines, ie, the modified Medical Research Council questionnaire, the clinical COPD questionnaire, and the COPD Assessment Test, as well as other symptom-specific questionnaires that are currently being developed. PMID:24143085

[Functional impairment and quality of life after rectal cancer surgery].

PubMed

Mora, Laura; Zarate, Alba; Serra-Aracil, Xavier; Pallisera, Anna; Serra, Sheila; Navarro-Soto, Salvador

2018-01-01

This study determines the quality of life and the anorectal function of these patients. Observational study of two cohorts comparing patients undergoing rectal tumor surgery using TaETM or conventional ETM after a minimum of six months of intestinal transit reconstruction. EORTC-30, EORTC-29 quality of life questionnaires and the anorectal function assessment questionnaire (LARS score) are applied. General variables are also collected. 31 patients between 2011 and 2014: 15 ETM group and 16 TaETM. We do not find statistically significant differences in quality of life questionnaires or in anorectal function. Statistically significant general variables: longer surgical time in the TaETM group. Nosocomial infection and minor suture failure in the TaETM group. The performance of TaETM achieves the same results in terms of quality of life and anorectal function as conventional ETM. Copyright: © 2018 Permanyer.

[Spanish validation of the International Spinal Cord Injury Pulmonary Function Basic Data Set questionnaire for the study of the repercussion of spinal cord injury in the respiratory system].

PubMed

Gómez Garrido, Alba; León Espitia, Ana María; Montesinos Magraner, Lluïsa; Ramirez Galceran, Lucrecia; Soler Canudes, Emilia; González Viejo, Miguel Angel

2015-12-07

The dysfunction of the respiratory system and the breathing complications in persons with injured spinal cord has an effect on the morbidity and the mortality of the disease. The objectives were: 1) to translate to Spanish and validate the questionnaire of international consensus: International Spinal Cord Injury Pulmonary Function Basic Data Set, and 2) to determine the influence of chronic spinal cord injury in the respiratory system in terms of respiratory functionalism. Translation to Spanish and validation of the questionnaire of international consensus intended for the study of the pulmonary function in spinal cord injury disease. We tested the reliability of that questionnaire. We conducted a descriptive transversal study to determine the degree of involvement of the respiratory system in spinal cord injury. A percentage of 91.9 did not have any respiratory pathology before spinal cord injury and 54.8% of patients smoked. A percentage of 27.4 of patients presented breathing complications one year after the injury. Results of the respiratory function tests were: FVC 67%, FEV1 72% and PEF 70%. Concordance and reliability were 98%. The Spanish version of the questionnaire of international consensus about the pulmonary function is a useful tool for the study of the respiratory involvement in spinal cord injury. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Development of a Questionnaire to Investigate Study Design Factors Influencing Participation in Gait Rehabilitation Research by People with Stroke: A Brief Report.

PubMed

Patterson, Kara K; Gallant, Nicole; Ormiston, Tracey; Patience, Chad; Whitechurch, Mandy; Mansfield, Avril; Brown, Janet

2015-08-01

The main objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of a newly developed questionnaire to assess the influence of study design on participation in gait rehabilitation research in a pilot test with individuals with stroke. A secondary objective was to investigate the relationship between participation in gait rehabilitation research and social and clinical factors of interest after stroke. A questionnaire was developed with expert opinion and guidance from related previous research. The questionnaire was pilot tested in a group of 21 people with stroke, and social and clinical factors (including gait function) were collected. Gait function was assessed using a pressure-sensitive mat; social and clinical characteristics were extracted from patient charts. Correlations were performed to investigate relationships between questionnaire responses and gait function, motor impairment, and chronicity; t-tests were used to examine response differences between people with a caregiver at home and those without. A total of 21 people with stroke completed the questionnaire without difficulty; mean completion time was 7.2 (SD 3.5) minutes, with a range of responses across participants. Borderline significant associations were found between gait function and the number of studies in which a person would participate and between stroke chronicity and the location of studies in which a person would participate. A questionnaire to investigate the influence of study design factors on participation in rehabilitation research is feasible for administration in the post-stroke population and has potential to inform the design of future studies.

Patient-reported outcome (PRO) questionnaires for men who have radical surgery for prostate cancer: a conceptual review of existing instruments.

PubMed

Protopapa, Evangelia; van der Meulen, Jan; Moore, Caroline M; Smith, Sarah C

2017-10-01

To critically review conceptual frameworks for available patient-reported outcome (PRO) questionnaires in men having radical prostatectomy (RP), psychometrically evaluate each questionnaire, and identify whether each is appropriate for use at the level of the individual patient. We searched PubMed, the Reports and Publications database of the University of Oxford Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Group and the website of the International Consortium for Health Outcomes Measurement (ICHOM) for psychometric reviews of prostate cancer-specific PRO questionnaires. From these we identified relevant questionnaires and critically appraised the conceptual content, guided by the Wilson and Cleary framework and psychometric properties, using well established criteria. The searches found four reviews and one recommendation paper. We identified seven prostate cancer-specific PROs: the Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite-26 (EPIC-26), Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite-50 (EPIC-50), University of California-Los Angeles Prostate Cancer Index (UCLA-PCI), Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy - Prostate Cancer Subscale (FACT-P PCS), European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire - prostate specific 25-item (EORTC QLQ-PR25), Prostate Cancer - Quality of Life (PC-QoL), and Symptom Tracking and Reporting (STAR). Six out of seven measures purported to measure health-related quality of life (HRQL), but items focused strongly on urinary and sexual symptoms/functioning. The remaining questionnaire (STAR) claimed to assess functional recovery after RP. The psychometric evidence for these questionnaires was incomplete and variable in quality; none had evidence that they were appropriate for use with individual patients. Several questionnaires provide the basis of measures of urinary and/or sexual symptoms/functioning. Further work should explore other aspects of HRQL that are important for men having RP. Further psychometric work is also needed to determine whether they can be used at the individual level. © 2017 The Authors BJU International © 2017 BJU International Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Contrasting the use of 2 vision-specific quality of life questionnaires in subjects with open-angle glaucoma.

PubMed

Wren, Patricia A; Musch, David C; Janz, Nancy K; Niziol, Leslie M; Guire, Kenneth E; Gillespie, Brenda W

2009-01-01

To compare 2 vision-specific functional status measures to each other and to clinical parameters in the Collaborative Initial Glaucoma Treatment Study (CIGTS). CIGTS participants completed the Visual Activities Questionnaire (VAQ) and the National Eye Institute-Visual Function Questionnaire (NEI-VFQ) and were tested for visual field (VF) and visual acuity (VA). In all, 426 subjects contributed the VAQ and NEI-VFQ scores at 54 months. Pearson correlations were used to assess associations. The VAQ subscales (range, 0 to 100) that assessed light-dark adaptation (mean=66.1), glare disability (66.4), and acuity/spatial vision (67.7) indicated vision-related functions that CIGTS participants found most difficult. On the NEI-VFQ, subjects reported high levels of visual functioning, with mean >/=90 (out of 100) on the total score and in 9 of 12 subscales. General vision (mean=82.6) received the lowest subscale score. Two subscales common to both questionnaires were highly correlated: VA (r=0.68) and peripheral vision (r=0.77) (both P<0.0001). Correlations between participants' perceptions and clinical measures of visual function were in the expected direction, but weaker. Stronger associations were found between clinical measures and the NEI-VFQ than the VAQ. Better eye VF and worse eye VA had the highest number of significant correlations with subjects' perceptions of their visual function. Increasing VF loss was associated with a significant decrease in the overall and peripheral vision subscale scores from both questionnaires, and also several other subscales. CIGTS patients reported excellent visual function on both the NEI-VFQ and VAQ. These findings will help researchers interested in assessing patients' perceptions of their visual function make an informed selection when choosing between the VAQ and the NEI-VFQ.

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

Development and validation of a new visa questionnaire (VISA-H) for patients with proximal hamstring tendinopathy.

PubMed

Cacchio, Angelo; De Paulis, Fosco; Maffulli, Nicola

2014-03-01

There is a need for a patient-reported outcome (PRO) questionnaire to evaluate patients with proximal hamstring tendinopathy (PHT). To develop a PRO questionnaire based on VISA questionnaire forms for patients with PHT. Item generation, item reduction, item scaling and evaluation of the psychometric properties were used to develop a questionnaire to assess the severity of symptoms, function and ability to play sports in patients with PHT and healthy subjects. The final version, named Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment-Proximal Hamstring Tendons (VISA-H), consisted of eight questions that measured the domains of pain, function and sporting activity. The psychometric properties of a questionnaire were estimated in a population of non-surgical (n=20) and surgical (n=10) patients, as well as in healthy subjects (n=30). The VISA-H questionnaire displayed a high degree of internal consistency, with a Cronbach α of 0.84. (The test-retest reliability was high for all groups of participants with an intraclass correlation coefficient ranging from 0.90 to 0.95.) The VISA-H exhibited a high correlation with the Nirschl phase rating scale (r ranging from -0.75 to -0.89) and a generic tendon grading system proposed by Curwin and Stanish (r ranging from -0.70 to -0.88). Also, the responsiveness was higher for the VISA-H questionnaire with an area under the curve of 0.90 and a minimum clinically important difference of 22 points. The VISA-H is a PRO questionnaire with high psychometric properties for measuring pain, function and sporting activity in patients with PHT.

Development of patient-based questionnaire about aesthetic and functional differences between overdentures implant-supported and overdentures tooth-supported. Study of 43 patients with a follow up of 1 year

PubMed Central

GARGARI, M.; PRETE, V.; PUJIA, M.; CERUSO, F. M.

2013-01-01

SUMMARY Development of patient-based questionnaire about aesthetic and functional differences between overdentures implant-supported and overdentures tooth-supported. Study of 43 patients with a follow up of 1 year. Objective The aim of this study is to compare functional efficiency and patients satisfaction between tooth-supported and implant-supported overdenture through a questionnaire that accurately reflects the real concerns of patients with dental prosthesis. Methods Forty-three patients were selected from the out patient clinic, Department of Dentistry “Fra G.B. Orsenigo Ospedale San Pietro F.B.F.”, Rome, Italy. Their age were ranging from 61 to 83 years. Eighteen patients were rehabilitated with overdentures supported by natural teeth and twenty-five with overdentures implant-supported. Discussion and Result The questionnaire proposed one year after the insertion of the prosthetis has showed that there isn’t difference statistically significant in terms of function, phonetics and aesthetics between overdenture implant-supported and tooth-supported. Conclusions The results of the questionnaire showed that the patients generally had a high level of satisfaction concern to the masticatory function, esthetics and phonetics. In addition, on average, they haven’t difficulty in removal and insertion of the denture and in oral hygiene. They haven’t in both groups problems related to fractures. PMID:23741602

Development of patient-based questionnaire about aesthetic and functional differences between overdentures implant-supported and overdentures tooth-supported. Study of 43 patients with a follow up of 1 year.

PubMed

Gargari, M; Prete, V; Pujia, M; Ceruso, F M

2012-10-01

Development of patient-based questionnaire about aesthetic and functional differences between overdentures implant-supported and overdentures tooth-supported. Study of 43 patients with a follow up of 1 year. The aim of this study is to compare functional efficiency and patients satisfaction between tooth-supported and implant-supported overdenture through a questionnaire that accurately reflects the real concerns of patients with dental prosthesis. Forty-three patients were selected from the out patient clinic, Department of Dentistry "Fra G.B. Orsenigo Ospedale San Pietro F.B.F.", Rome, Italy. Their age were ranging from 61 to 83 years. Eighteen patients were rehabilitated with overdentures supported by natural teeth and twenty-five with overdentures implant-supported. DISCUSSION AND RESULT: The questionnaire proposed one year after the insertion of the prosthetis has showed that there isn't difference statistically significant in terms of function, phonetics and aesthetics between overdenture implant-supported and tooth-supported. The results of the questionnaire showed that the patients generally had a high level of satisfaction concern to the masticatory function, esthetics and phonetics. In addition, on average, they haven't difficulty in removal and insertion of the denture and in oral hygiene. They haven't in both groups problems related to fractures.

Questionnaire of Executive Function for Dancers: An Ecological Approach

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wong, Alina; Rodriguez, Mabel; Quevedo, Liliana; de Cossio, Lourdes Fernandez; Borges, Ariel; Reyes, Alicia; Corral, Roberto; Blanco, Florentino; Alvarez, Miguel

2012-01-01

There is a current debate about the ecological validity of executive function (EF) tests. Consistent with the verisimilitude approach, this research proposes the Ballet Executive Scale (BES), a self-rating questionnaire that assimilates idiosyncratic executive behaviors of classical dance community. The BES was administrated to 149 adolescents,…

The Associations Between Executive Functions' Capacities, Performance Process Skills, and Dimensions of Participation in Activities of Daily Life Among Children of Elementary School Age.

PubMed

Rosenberg, Limor

2015-01-01

Effective executive functions (EFs) are crucial for efficient daily functioning. Daily functioning or involvement in life situations is defined as "participation" (International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health [ICF]; World Health Organization, 2001). Yet associations between them have been inadequately studied for children. The present study aimed to explore the associations between EFs and child participation. Participants were 60 typically developing children aged 6 to 9 years old and their parents. The children were individually evaluated using five EF cognitive tests. The parents completed three questionnaires: the Children Participation Questionnaire, the Process Skills (the observed executive performance) Questionnaire, and the Environmental Restrictions Questionnaire. Most of the EF scores were associated with the child's age. A unique contribution of executive capacities was found for the "independence" aspect of child participation, though the quantum of contribution was limited compared with the other predictors' process skills and environmental restrictions. In the context of child participation, EFs should be studied through multivariate analysis, as otherwise, the unique contribution of executive capacities measured by neuropsychological cognitive tests are likely to be ignored. Process skills are crucial for a child's independence and autonomy in daily functioning. These findings are supported by the capacity-performance distinction suggested by the ICF model.

Assessment of the psychometric properties of the Short-Form Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire (PISQ-12) following surgical placement of Prolift+M: a transvaginal partially absorbable mesh system for the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse.

PubMed

Roy, Sanjoy; Mohandas, Anita; Coyne, Karin; Gelhorn, Heather; Gauld, Judi; Sikirica, Vanja; Milani, Alfredo L

2012-04-01

Impairment of sexual function is a significant problem among women suffering from pelvic organ prolapse (POP). Because anatomical measures of POP do not always correspond with patients' subjective reports of their condition, patient-reported outcome measures may provide additional valuable information regarding the experiences of women who have undergone surgery. The Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire (PISQ-12) is a validated, widely used condition-specific questionnaire focused on sexual function among patients with POP or urinary incontinence. This study aims to report sexual function outcomes as measured by PISQ-12 and to evaluate the psychometric characteristics of the questionnaire following surgical mesh implant for the treatment of POP. The PISQ-12 was used to measure sexual function, while a set of other measures, namely, Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification, Patient Global Impression of Change, Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory, Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire, and Surgical Satisfaction Questionnaire, was used for validation. Data for the study were collected from a prospective multicenter, single-arm study of surgical POP repair via the transvaginal placement of a partially absorbable mesh system. For baseline, month 3, and month 12 following POP surgery, several psychometric properties of the PISQ-12 were evaluated, including internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha), concurrent validity, discriminant validity, and responsiveness. As measured by the PISQ-12 questionnaire, statistically significant improvements were observed in the composite summary score as well as all three subscale scores at 1 year. The PISQ-12 generally demonstrated good psychometric properties including internal consistency reliability, validity, and responsiveness. The PISQ-12 items had good distributional properties at baseline, with substantial ceiling effects at follow-up visits reflecting improvements experienced by the patients. The PISQ-12 is a valid measure of sexual function in studies involving patients with POP. © 2012 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

Multiple Types of Memory and Everyday Functional Assessment in Older Adults

PubMed Central

Beaver, Jenna

2017-01-01

Abstract Objective Current proxy measures for assessing everyday functioning (e.g., questionnaires, performance-based measures, and direct observation) show discrepancies in their rating of functional status. The present study investigated the relationship between multiple proxy measures of functional status and content memory (i.e., memory for information), temporal order memory, and prospective memory in an older adult sample. Method A total of 197 community-dwelling older adults who did (n = 45) or did not meet (n = 152) criteria for mild cognitive impairment (MCI), completed six different assessments of functional status (two questionnaires, two performance-based tasks, and two direct observation tasks) as well as experimental measures of content memory, prospective memory, and temporal order memory. Results After controlling for demographics and content memory, the temporal order and prospective memory measures explained a significant amount of variance in all proxy functional status measures. When all variables were entered into the regression analyses, content memory and prospective memory were found to be significant predictors of all measures of functional status, whereas temporal order memory was a significant predictor for the questionnaire and direct observation measures, but not performance-based measures. Conclusion The results suggest that direct observation and questionnaire measures may be able to capture components of everyday functioning that require context and temporal sequencing abilities, such as multi-tasking, that are not as well captured in many current laboratory performance-based measures of functional status. Future research should aim to inform the development and use of maximally effective and valid proxy measures of functional ability. PMID:28334170

Identification of International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health categories for patients with peripheral arterial disease.

PubMed

Vyskocil, Erich; Gruther, Wolfgang; Steiner, Irene; Schuhfried, Othmar

2014-07-01

Disease-specific categories of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health have not yet been described for patients with chronic peripheral arterial obstructive disease (PAD). The authors examined the relationship between the categories of the Brief Core Sets for ischemic heart diseases with the Peripheral Artery Questionnaire and the ankle-brachial index to determine which International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health categories are most relevant for patients with PAD. This is a retrospective cohort study including 77 patients with verified PAD. Statistical analyses of the relationship between International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health categories as independent variables and the endpoints Peripheral Artery Questionnaire or ankle-brachial index were carried out by simple and stepwise linear regression models adjusting for age, sex, and leg (left vs. right). The stepwise linear regression model with the ankle-brachial index as dependent variable revealed a significant effect of the variables blood vessel functions and muscle endurance functions. Calculating a stepwise linear regression model with the Peripheral Artery Questionnaire as dependent variable, a significant effect of age, emotional functions, energy and drive functions, carrying out daily routine, as well as walking could be observed. This study identifies International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health categories in the Brief Core Sets for ischemic heart diseases that show a significant effect on the ankle-brachial index and the Peripheral Artery Questionnaire score in patients with PAD. These categories provide fundamental information on functioning of patients with PAD and patient-centered outcomes for rehabilitation interventions.

Are vision-specific quality of life questionnaires important in assessing rehabilitation for patients with hemianopia post stroke?

PubMed

George, Stacey; Hayes, Allison; Chen, Celia; Crotty, Maria

2011-01-01

To explore the relationship between disability and functional measures with vision-specific quality of life (QoL) measures for people with hemianopia and stroke. The Behavioral Inattention Test (BIT) and the Mayo-Portland Adaptability Inventory (MPAI) were compared with scores on 2 vision-specific QoL measures, the National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire (NEI VFQ-25) and Veteran Low Vision Visual Function Questionnaire (VA LV VFQ-48). Rehabilitation hospitals in Adelaide, South Australia. Stroke patients (n = 24) with homonymous hemianopia. Most of the BIT and MPAI scores were significantly associated with the NEI VFQ-25 and VA LV VFQ-48 scores. Behavioral test scores of the BIT and the MPAI total score correlated with more aspects of the QoL measures than the other components of the BIT and the MPAI. BIT and MPAI measure constructs associated with QoL for people with hemianopia following stroke. Vision-specific QoL questionnaires can complement the functional instruments by identifying the domains of difficulty, based on the instrument's subscale, that can guide rehabilitation therapists to address the person's deficit.

Parental functional health literacy relates to skip pattern questionnaire error and to child oral health.

PubMed

Garrett, Gail M; Citi, Alicia M; Gansky, Stuart A

2012-05-01

The study's purpose was to determine if parental dental functional health literacy related to child oral health. A secondary aim was to assess if errors in completing the questionnaire related to FHL and child oral health. Parents of pediatric clinic children (N = 101) completed questionnaires and dental caries indices were recorded. Higher FHL was negatively correlated with worse child caries (r = -0.23), but not subjective oral health. Mean FHL seemed to differ by skip pattern (p = 0.087), indicating it may be a potential FHL proxy.

Adherence to Polyethylene Glycol Treatment in Children with Functional Constipation Is Associated with Parental Illness Perceptions, Satisfaction with Treatment, and Perceived Treatment Convenience.

PubMed

Koppen, Ilan Jasper Nader; van Wassenaer, Elsa A; Barendsen, Rinse W; Brand, Paul L; Benninga, Marc A

2018-05-10

To assess treatment adherence in children with functional constipation and to evaluate the association with parental beliefs about medication, illness perceptions, treatment satisfaction, and satisfaction with information about medication. A cross-sectional survey was administered among parents of children with functional constipation treated with polyethylene glycol. Adherence was measured via the Medication Adherence Report Scale (MARS-5, score 5-25), with greater scores indicating better adherence (scores ≥23 were defined as adherent). Beliefs about medication, illness perceptions, satisfaction with treatment, and satisfaction with information about treatment were measured with the Beliefs about Medication Questionnaire, the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire, the Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication (TSQM), and the Satisfaction with Information about Medication Questionnaire. Associations between the questionnaire scores and adherence (MARS-5 score as a continuous variable) were analyzed with regression analyses. In total, 43 of 115 included children (37%) were adherent (MARS-5 ≥23). Spearman rank correlation test revealed a statistically significant correlation between TSQM-convenience, TSQM-satisfaction, Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire question 8 (emotions), and the MARS-5 score (r s 0.342, P = .000; r s 0.258, P = .006; r s -0.192, P = .044), which suggests that parental perceived treatment convenience, satisfaction with treatment, and illness perceptions may affect adherence in children with functional constipation. In the hierarchical multivariate regression model, 22% of the variability of the MARS-5 score could be explained by the selected predictors. The TSQM-convenience score contributed the most to the model (β: 0.384, P = .000). Parents reported low adherence rates in their children with functional constipation. Treatment inconvenience, dissatisfaction with treatment, and the emotional impact of functional constipation may negatively influence treatment adherence. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Paternal and maternal influences on family functioning among Hong Kong Chinese families.

PubMed

Shek, D T

2001-03-01

The linkages between dyadic relationships in the family and family functioning were examined in 378 Chinese families on two occasions. The following dyadic relationships were investigated: (a) parent-child relationship qualities reported by adolescent children (questionnaire and interview measures of parenting style, parent-adolescent conflict, parent-adolescent communication, and parent-adolescent relationship) and by their parents (questionnaire measures of parent-child relationship quality and demand); and (b) marital quality reported by the parents via questionnaire measures. Results showed that parents' and children's views of family functioning were longitudinally related to dyadic relationships in the family. Relative to mother-adolescent relationship and mothers' report of marital quality, father-adolescent relationship and fathers' report of marital quality were generally found to have a stronger association with perception of family functioning and its change over time.

Development and validation of a brief, descriptive Danish pain questionnaire (BDDPQ).

PubMed

Perkins, F M; Werner, M U; Persson, F; Holte, K; Jensen, T S; Kehlet, H

2004-04-01

A new pain questionnaire should be simple, be documented to have discriminative function, and be related to previously used questionnaires. Word meaning was validated by using bilingual Danish medical students and asking them to translate words taken from the Danish version of the McGill pain questionnaire into English. Evaluative word value was estimated using a visual analog scale (VAS). Discriminative function was assessed by having patients with one of six painful conditions (postherpetic neuralgia, phantom limb pain, rheumatoid arthritis, ankle fracture, appendicitis, or labor pain) complete the questionnaire. We were not able to find Danish words that were reliably back-translated to the English words 'splitting' or 'gnawing'. A simple three-word set of evaluative terms had good separation when rated on a VAS scale ('let' 17.5+/-6.5 mm; 'moderat' 42.7+/-8.6 mm; and 'staerk' 74.9+/-9.7 mm). The questionnaire was able to discriminate among the six painful conditions with 77% accuracy by just using the descriptive words. The accuracy of the questionnaire increased to 96% with the addition of evaluative terms (for pain at rest and with activity), chronicity (acute vs. chronic), and location of the pain. A Danish pain questionnaire that subjects and patients can self-administer has been developed and validated relative to the words used in the English McGill Pain questionnaire. The discriminative ability of the questionnaire among some common painful conditions has been tested and documented. The questionnaire may be of use in patient care and research.

Differential Item Functioning Analysis of the 2003-04 NHANES Physical Activity Questionnaire

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gao, Yong; Zhu, Weimo

2011-01-01

Using differential item functioning (DIF) analyses, this study examined whether there were any DIF items in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) physical activity (PA) questionnaire. A subset of adult data from the 2003-04 NHANES study (n = 3,083) was used. PA items related to respondents' occupational, transportation,…

Focal Muscle Vibration and Physical Exercise in Postmastectomy Recovery: An Explorative Study

PubMed Central

Fara, Maria Antonietta; Filippi, Guido Maria; La Torre, Giuseppe; Tozzi, Roberto; Vanacore, Nicola

2017-01-01

Background. Physical activity initiation and maintenance are particular challenges in the postmastectomy recovery and in particular Dragon Boat racing seems to be a useful sport activity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of focal muscle vibration as a proprioceptive input to improve upper limb functioning in a group of “paddlers” patients. Methods. A group of paddlers has been evaluated before vibratory treatment (T0), immediately after therapy (T1), after one week (T2), and after one month (T3) with DASH questionnaire, Body Image Scale, McGill pain questionnaire, Constant Scale, and Short Form 36 questionnaire. Results. Fourteen patients showed a significant reduction in disability score (p = 0,001) using DASH scale, an improvement of upper limb function (p = 0,001) using the Constant scale, and a reduction of pain (p = 0,007) at the McGill pain questionnaire. The Mental Composite Score of the Short Form 36 questionnaire showed significant results (p = 0,04) while no significant results had been found regarding the physical mental score (p = 0,08). Conclusion. Focal muscle vibration may be a useful treatment in a postmastectomy recovery of upper limb functionality. PMID:28459068

Multiple Types of Memory and Everyday Functional Assessment in Older Adults.

PubMed

Beaver, Jenna; Schmitter-Edgecombe, Maureen

2017-06-01

Current proxy measures for assessing everyday functioning (e.g., questionnaires, performance-based measures, and direct observation) show discrepancies in their rating of functional status. The present study investigated the relationship between multiple proxy measures of functional status and content memory (i.e., memory for information), temporal order memory, and prospective memory in an older adult sample. A total of 197 community-dwelling older adults who did (n = 45) or did not meet (n = 152) criteria for mild cognitive impairment (MCI), completed six different assessments of functional status (two questionnaires, two performance-based tasks, and two direct observation tasks) as well as experimental measures of content memory, prospective memory, and temporal order memory. After controlling for demographics and content memory, the temporal order and prospective memory measures explained a significant amount of variance in all proxy functional status measures. When all variables were entered into the regression analyses, content memory and prospective memory were found to be significant predictors of all measures of functional status, whereas temporal order memory was a significant predictor for the questionnaire and direct observation measures, but not performance-based measures. The results suggest that direct observation and questionnaire measures may be able to capture components of everyday functioning that require context and temporal sequencing abilities, such as multi-tasking, that are not as well captured in many current laboratory performance-based measures of functional status. Future research should aim to inform the development and use of maximally effective and valid proxy measures of functional ability. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Illness Identity in Adults with a Chronic Illness.

PubMed

Oris, Leen; Luyckx, Koen; Rassart, Jessica; Goubert, Liesbet; Goossens, Eva; Apers, Silke; Arat, Seher; Vandenberghe, Joris; Westhovens, René; Moons, Philip

2018-02-21

The present study examines the concept of illness identity, the degree to which a chronic illness is integrated into one's identity, in adults with a chronic illness by validating a new self-report questionnaire, the Illness Identity Questionnaire (IIQ). Self-report questionnaires on illness identity, psychological, and physical functioning were assessed in two samples: adults with congenital heart disease (22-78 year old; n = 276) and with multisystem connective tissue disorders (systemic lupus erythematosus or systemic sclerosis; 17-81 year old; n = 241). The IIQ could differentiate four illness identity states (i.e., engulfment, rejection, acceptance, and enrichment) in both samples, based on exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis. All four subscales proved to be reliable. Rejection and engulfment were related to maladaptive psychological and physical functioning, whereas acceptance and enrichment were related to adaptive psychological and physical functioning. The present findings underscore the importance of the concept of illness identity. The IIQ, a self-report questionnaire, is introduced to measure four different illness identity states in adults with a chronic illness.

Fecoflowmetric Analysis of Anorectal Motor Function in Postoperative Anal-Preserving Surgery Patients With Low Rectal Cancer Comparison With the Wexner Score and Anorectal Manometry

PubMed Central

Ryu, Yasuhiko; Akagi, Yoshito; Yagi, Minoru; Sasatomi, Teruo; Kinugasa, Tetsushi; Yamaguchi, Keizo; Oka, Yousuke; Fukahori, Suguru; Shiratsuchi, Ichitaro; Yoshida, Takefumi; Gotanda, Yukito; Tanaka, Natsuki; Ohchi, Takafumi; Romeo, Kansakar; Shirouzu, Kazuo

2015-01-01

The aim of this study was to elucidate whether fecoflowmetry (FFM) could evaluate more detailed evacuative function than anorectal manometry by comparing between FFM or anorectal manometric findings and the clinical questionnaires and the types of surgical procedure in the patients who received anal-preserving surgery. Fifty-three patients who underwent anal-preserving surgery for low rectal cancer were enrolled. The relationships between FFM or the manometric findings and the clinical questionnaires and the types of procedure of anal-preserving surgery were evaluated. There were significant differences between FFM markers and the clinical questionnaire and the types of the surgical procedure, whereas no significant relationship was observed between the manometric findings and the clinical questionnaire and the types of the surgical procedure. FFM might be feasible and useful for the objective assessment of evacuative function and may be superior to manometry for patients undergoing anal-preserving surgery. PMID:25594637

Sexual and Overall Quality of Life Improvements After Surgical Correction of "Buried Penis".

PubMed

Hughes, Duncan B; Perez, Edgar; Garcia, Ryan M; Aragón, Oriana R; Erdmann, Detlev

2016-05-01

"Buried penis" is an increasing burden in our population with many possible etiologies. Although surgical correction of buried penis can be rewarding and successful for the surgeon, the psychological and functional impact of buried penis on the patient is less understood. The study's aim was to evaluate the sexual satisfaction and overall quality of life before and after buried penis surgery in a single-surgeon's patient population using a validated questionnaire (Changes in Sexual Functioning Questionnaire short-form). Using Likert scales generated from the questionnaire and 1-tailed paired t test analysis, we found that there was significantly improved sexual function after correction of a buried penis. Variables individually showed that there was significant improvement with sexual pleasure, urinating, and with genital hygiene postoperatively. There were no significant differences concerning frequency of pain with orgasms. Surgical correction of buried penis significantly improves the functional, sexual, and psychological aspects of patient's lives.

Cross-cultural Adaptation of the "Functional Activities Questionnaire - FAQ" for use in Brazil

PubMed Central

Sanchez, Maria Angélica dos Santos; Correa, Pricila Cristina Ribeiro; Lourenço, Roberto Alves

2011-01-01

Objective The aim of this paper was to present the results of the first stage of cross-cultural adaptation of the Functional Activities Questionnaire (FAQ). Methods The tool was subjected to translation and re-translation, and the test-retest reliability of a proposed version for use in Brazil was analyzed. Results Of the 548 questionnaire respondents, a convenience sample of 68 informants was selected for retesting. Internal consistency was measured by Cronbach's alpha (0.95) while test-retest reliability was assessed using intra-class correlation (0.97). The findings have shown that FAQ is brief - averaging seven minutes to apply, easily understood and has good intra-rater test-retest reliability. Conclusion Our results suggest this adapted version of the FAQ is a reliable and stable tool which may be useful for assessing function in Brazilian elderly. Notwithstanding, the version should be subjected to further analysis with the aim of reaching functional equivalence. PMID:29213759

Female sexual function and the clitoral complex using pelvic MRI assessment.

PubMed

Vaccaro, Christine M; Fellner, Angela N; Pauls, Rachel N

2014-09-01

To report basic measurements of clitoral anatomy, and explore potential relationships between the clitoral complex and female sexual function using MRI assessment. In this retrospective descriptive study, 20 sexually active women (≥18 years) who had a recent pelvic MRI for various gynecologic concerns were invited to participate. Outcome measures included demographic data, medical and sexual history, quality of life questionnaires: Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), Body Exposure during Sexual Activities Questionnaire (BESAQ), and Short Form Quality of Life Questionnaire (SF-12). These data were then compared to detailed clitoral MRI measurements and analyzed using the Pearson correlation and Chi square test. FSFI domains of desire, arousal, lubrication, and orgasm were inversely correlated with clitoral size (p=0.01-0.04), as were SF-12 physical composite scores (p=0.003), suggesting improved sexual function and physical health in women with smaller clitoral structures (specifically the clitoral body and crus). Sexual function was improved in women with a smaller-sized clitoris, specifically the clitoral body and crus. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.

Questionnaire-based assessment of executive functioning: Psychometrics.

PubMed

Castellanos, Irina; Kronenberger, William G; Pisoni, David B

2018-01-01

The psychometric properties of the Learning, Executive, and Attention Functioning (LEAF) scale were investigated in an outpatient clinical pediatric sample. As a part of clinical testing, the LEAF scale, which broadly measures neuropsychological abilities related to executive functioning and learning, was administered to parents of 118 children and adolescents referred for psychological testing at a pediatric psychology clinic; 85 teachers also completed LEAF scales to assess reliability across different raters and settings. Scores on neuropsychological tests of executive functioning and academic achievement were abstracted from charts. Psychometric analyses of the LEAF scale demonstrated satisfactory internal consistency, parent-teacher inter-rater reliability in the small to large effect size range, and test-retest reliability in the large effect size range, similar to values for other executive functioning checklists. Correlations between corresponding subscales on the LEAF and other behavior checklists were large, while most correlations with neuropsychological tests of executive functioning and achievement were significant but in the small to medium range. Results support the utility of the LEAF as a reliable and valid questionnaire-based assessment of delays and disturbances in executive functioning and learning. Applications and advantages of the LEAF and other questionnaire measures of executive functioning in clinical neuropsychology settings are discussed.

Association of fibromyalgia characteristics in patients with non-metastatic breast cancer and the protective role of resilience.

PubMed

Schrier, Michal; Amital, Daniela; Arnson, Yoav; Rubinow, Alan; Altaman, Arie; Nissenabaum, Bella; Amital, Howard

2012-10-01

Cancer patients often complain about weakness, fatigue, and pain. The aim of this study was to assess the features of the fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) characteristics in patients with non-metastatic breast cancer. The study group included 40 women whose age ranged from 40 to 70 years with Stages 0-3 breast cancer. The control group included 40 healthy women matched by age. A diagnosis of FMS was established based on medical history, physical examination, and the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ). Pain measures and functional factors were evaluated by the Brief Pain Inventory and the Sheehan Questionnaire. Resilience was assessed by Antanovsky's Sense of Coherence Questionnaire. Psychiatric disturbances were tested by the MINI Questionnaire and Hamilton questionnaires for depression and anxiety. The prevalence of chronic pain was higher in the study group. Statistically significant differences were also found between the group regarding pain, fatigue, and functional measures. The prevalence of depressive or anxious mood, measured by the Hamilton questionnaires, was strongly related to FMS characteristics reflected by FIQ scores (r = 0.79 between FIQ and the Hamilton Depression Index and r = 0.75 between FIQ and the Hamilton Anxiety Scale). The sense of coherence measure for these patients demonstrated an inverse correlation with pain, fatigue, and functional capability. Women with breast cancer tend to develop chronic widespread pain syndromes more often than do healthy women.

A systematic review of functional donor-site morbidity after latissimus dorsi muscle transfer.

PubMed

Lee, Kyeong-Tae; Mun, Goo-Hyun

2014-08-01

The authors performed a comprehensive literature review regarding functional impairment after latissimus dorsi muscle transfer, to investigate functional changes in the donor site and the potential impact on patients' daily lives. The PubMed database was searched for articles regarding functional donor-site morbidity following latissimus dorsi muscle flap harvest. Articles discussing the thoracodorsal artery perforator flap, which shares the same donor sites with the latissimus dorsi muscle flap, were also included. Functional morbidity was analyzed based on questionnaire of subjective symptoms, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire, shoulder range of motion, and shoulder strength. Twenty-two articles representing 719 cases in 644 patients were reviewed, including seven prospective and 15 retrospective cohort studies. As a questionnaire summary from eight articles, 94 of 232 patients (41 percent) experienced any kind of discomfort at the donor site. In the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire from seven articles, little difficulty in daily activities but significant difficulties in sports and art activities were observed. Nine of 13 articles reported some limitations of shoulder motion, particularly during the early postoperative period, and four other articles detected little limitation. Eight of 12 articles reported some shoulder strength weakness over time, and shoulder extension, adduction, and internal rotation were commonly involved. The muscle-sparing latissimus dorsi and thoracodorsal artery perforator flaps showed low functional morbidity. Functional impairment of the shoulder could develop after latissimus dorsi muscle flap transfer. Knowledge of the flap's functional morbidity will allow surgeons to inform patients regarding donor-site expectations and to accomplish better surgical outcomes.

Parental Functional Health Literacy Relates to Skip Pattern Questionnaire Error and to Child Oral Health

PubMed Central

Garrett, Gail M.; Citi, Alicia M.; Gansky, Stuart A.

2012-01-01

The study's purpose was to determine if parental dental functional-health-literacy (FHL) related to child oral health; a secondary aim was to assess if errors in completing the questionnaire related to FHL and child oral health. Parents of pediatric clinic children (N=101) completed questionnaires; dental caries indices were recorded. Higher FHL was negatively correlated with worse child caries (r=-0.23), but not subjective oral health. Mean FHL seemed to differ by skip pattern (p=0.087), indicating it may be a potential FHL proxy. PMID:22685950

Construct Validation of Physical Activity Surveys in Culturally Diverse Older Adults: A Comparison of Four Commonly Used Questionnaires

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Moore, Delilah S.; Ellis, Rebecca; Allen, Priscilla D.; Cherry, Katie E.; Monroe, Pamela A.; O'Neil, Carol E.; Wood, Robert H.

2008-01-01

The purpose of this study was to establish validity evidence of four physical activity (PA) questionnaires in culturally diverse older adults by comparing self-report PA with performance-based physical function. Participants were 54 older adults who completed the Continuous Scale Physical Functional Performance 10-item Test (CS-PFP10), Physical…

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

Sexual response in patients treated with sacral neuromodulation for lower urinary tract symptoms or fecal incontinence.

PubMed

van Voskuilen, A C; Oerlemans, D J; Gielen, N; Lansen-Koch, S M P; Weil, E H J; van Lankveld, J J D M; van den Hombergh, U; Baeten, C G M I; van Kerrenbroeck, P E V

2012-01-01

To determine whether sacral neuromodulation (SNM) for urinary symptoms or fecal incontinence gives improvement of female sexual function and whether improvement is due to physiological or psychological factors. Between 2002 and 2008, 8 patients had an array of questionnaires before and after SNM implantation. The questionnaires were: the Questionnaire for Screening for Sexual Dysfunctions, the Golombok Rust Inventory of Sexual Satisfaction, the Symptom Checklist-90, the Maudsley Marital Questionnaire and the McGill-Mah Orgasm Questionnaire. Three of these 8 patients underwent vaginal plethysmography before and after implantation. No statistically significant changes were found, although there seems to be a trend toward improvement in orgasm scores. In plethysmography all 3 patients showed increased vaginal pulse amplitude with the stimulator turned on with both erotic and non-erotic stimuli. This study does not show a clear effect of SNM on sexual function, although there seems to be an improvement in orgasm scores. The lack of response on psychological questionnaires and the increase in vaginal pulse amplitude after SNM implantation indicate that there might be a physiological response. Copyright © 2012 S. Karger AG, Basel.

The International Index of Erectile Function: development of an adapted tool for use in HIV-positive men who have sex with men.

PubMed

Coyne, Katherine; Mandalia, Sundhiya; McCullough, Sonya; Catalan, Jose; Noestlinger, Christiana; Colebunders, Robert; Asboe, David

2010-02-01

Erectile dysfunction is common in HIV-positive men who have sex with men (MSM). A standardized scale is needed to assess erectile function in clinical practice and research studies. The International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) is a widely accepted tool for assessing erectile function designed for heterosexual men. We modified the tool for MSM. We present an analysis of internal consistency of the questionnaire in an HIV-positive cohort. The adapted questionnaire included modified questions within each of the five domains of the IIEF: (i) erectile function, (ii) intercourse satisfaction, (iii) orgasmic function, (iv) sexual desire, and (v) overall satisfaction with sex. MSM at seven European HIV treatment centers completed the questionnaire. Responses were analyzed for internal consistency using standardized Cronbach's alpha values within each of the five domains. A factor analysis was performed to confirm the domain structure of the questionnaire. Data from 486 MSM were analyzed. The factor analysis supported the domain structure described. Questions about erectile function, orgasmic function, and sexual desire performed well, with Cronbach's alpha values of 0.82, 0.83, and 0.89, respectively. Questions concerning intercourse satisfaction were less consistent (Cronbach's alpha 0.55) because frequency of attempts at sexual intercourse did not correlate with other responses. Responses about satisfaction with sex with a regular partner diverged from satisfaction with overall sex life. Frequency of morning erections diverged from other aspects of erectile function, whereas erections with masturbation correlated better. Internal consistency was high overall. This tool is suitable for HIV-positive MSM and can be used in screening, research, and monitoring treatment response.

Singers' Vocal Function Knowledge Levels, Sensorimotor Self-awareness of Vocal Tract, and Impact of Functional Voice Rehabilitation on the Vocal Function Knowledge and Self-awareness of Vocal Tract.

PubMed

Sielska-Badurek, Ewelina; Osuch-Wójcikiewicz, Ewa; Sobol, Maria; Kazanecka, Ewa; Niemczyk, Kazimierz

2017-01-01

This study investigated vocal function knowledge and vocal tract sensorimotor self-awareness and the impact of functional voice rehabilitation on vocal function knowledge and self-awareness. This is a prospective, randomized study. Twenty singers (study group [SG]) completed a questionnaire before and after functional voice rehabilitation. Twenty additional singers, representing the control group, also completed the questionnaire without functional voice rehabilitation at a 3-month interval. The questionnaire consisted of three parts. The first part evaluated the singers' attitude to the anatomical and physiological knowledge of the vocal tract and their self-esteem of the knowledge level. The second part assessed the theoretical knowledge of the singers' vocal tract physiology. The third part of the questionnaire assessed singers' sensorimotor self-awareness of the vocal tract. The results showed that most singers indicated that knowledge of the vocal tract's anatomy and physiology is useful (59% SG, 67% control group). However, 75% of all participants defined their knowledge of the vocal tract's anatomy and physiology as weak or inadequate. In the SG, vocal function knowledge at the first assessment was 45%. After rehabilitation, the level increased to 67.7%. Vocal tract sensorimotor self-awareness initially was 38.9% in SG but rose to 66.7%. Findings of the study suggest that classical singers lack knowledge about the physiology of the vocal mechanism, especially the breathing patterns. In addition, they have low sensorimotor self-awareness of their vocal tract. The results suggest that singers would benefit from receiving services from phoniatrists and speech-language pathologists during their voice training. Copyright © 2017 The Voice Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Association between social support, functional status, and change in health-related quality of life and changes in anxiety and depression in colorectal cancer patients.

PubMed

Gonzalez-Saenz de Tejada, M; Bilbao, A; Baré, M; Briones, E; Sarasqueta, C; Quintana, J M; Escobar, A

2017-09-01

The aim of this study was to explore the association between baseline social support, functional status, and change in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in colorectal cancer patients and change in anxiety and depression measured by Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) at 1 year after surgery. Consecutive patients who were due to undergo therapeutic surgery for the first time for colon or rectal cancer in 9 hospitals in Spain were eligible for the study. Patients completed the following questionnaires before surgery and 12 months afterward: 1 HRQoL instrument, the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Core Quality of Life Questionnaire; a social support questionnaire, the Duke-UNC Functional Social Support Questionnaire; the Barthel Index, to assess functional status; the HADS, to assess anxiety and depression; and questions about sociodemographic information. General linear models were built to explore the association between social support, functional status, and change in HRQoL and changes in anxiety and depression 12 months after surgery. A total of 947 colorectal cancer patients took part in the study. Patients' functional status, social support, and change in HRQoL were associated with changes in anxiety and depression. Greater social support and improvements in physical, cognitive, and social functioning and in insomnia resulted in improvements in anxiety and depression. No functionally independent patients were associated with lesser improvements in anxiety and depression. Colorectal cancer patients who have more social support, are functionally independent and have higher improvements in HRQoL may have better results in anxiety and depression at 1 year after surgery, adjusting for age, gender, location, occupation, and baseline HADS scores. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Using the Evaluative Linguistic Framework for Questionnaires to Assess Comprehensibility of Self-Report Health Questionnaires.

PubMed

Clerehan, Rosemary; Guillemin, Francis; Epstein, Jonathan; Buchbinder, Rachelle

2016-06-01

The Evaluative Linguistic Framework (ELF) was developed to judge the quality of health care texts for patients, based on systemic functional linguistic theory. This approach considers key variables such as context and structure, known to be important for communication. Our objective was to adapt the ELF to evaluate the quality of self-report questionnaires. We reviewed the Health Literacy Questionnaire using the ELF. On the basis of these data, we drafted the preliminary version of the Evaluative Linguistic Framework for Questionnaires (ELF-Q) and applied it to English- and French-language versions of two arthritis self-report questionnaires and to Spanish, Dutch, and Turkish versions of an arthritis questionnaire. The developed ELF-Q was found to be effective for evaluating questionnaires in English and in four other languages. It contains nine items with new descriptions and assessment probes. These include overall organizational or generic structure of the questionnaire, metadiscourse (or text about the text), headings, rhetorical elements (function of each "move" or stage of the text in relation to the reader), the writer-reader relationship, technicality of vocabulary, lexical density (proportion of content words in the text), format, and overall judgment. We added assessment responses on a two- or three-point Likert scale to complement the assessment probes and make the intent and meaning of the probes fully explicit for the questionnaire developer or assessor. The ELF-Q is a framework practical to use for the development or assessment of any type of self-report questionnaire. Its application can identify features of a self-report questionnaire that could be improved to optimize its comprehensibility. Copyright © 2016 International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR). Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) to evaluate sexual function in women with genital mutilation undergoing surgical reconstruction: a pilot prospective study.

PubMed

Vital, Mathilde; de Visme, Sophie; Hanf, Matthieu; Philippe, Henri-Jean; Winer, Norbert; Wylomanski, Sophie

2016-07-01

Few prospective studies have evaluated sexual function in women with female genital mutilation by cutting (FGM/C) before and after clitoral reconstructive surgery, and none used a validated questionnaire. A validated questionnaire, the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) was used for the first time, to assess the impact of reconstructive surgery on sexual function in women with female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) before and after clitoral reconstructive surgery. Women with FGM/C consulting at the Nantes University Hospital for clitoral reconstruction between 2013 and 2014 were prospectively included. All patients completed a questionnaire at inclusion, describing their social, demographic, and FGM/C characteristics. They were also asked to complete the FSFI as well as a questionnaire about clitoral sensations, symptoms of depression or anxiety, and self-esteem before and 3 and 6 months after the surgery. Paired Wilcoxon and McNemar tests were used to compare data. Of the 12 women included, 9 (75%) had type II mutilations. Results showed a global sexual dysfunction (median FSFI summary score=17) before surgery. Clitoral sensations were absent in 8 women (67%). Six months after surgery, all FSFI dimensions except lubrication had improved significantly (median FSFI summary score=29, P=0.009). Ten women had clitoral sensations, and 11 (92%) were satisfied with their surgery. This study shows that 6 months after clitoral reconstructive surgery, women reported a multidimensional positive improvement in their sexual function. The FSFI is a promising tool for routine standardized assessment of the sexual function of women with FGM/C for determining appropriate management and assessing it. Larger studies with validated questionnaires assessing self-esteem, depression, and body image are also needed to develop an integrative approach and to provide evidence-based recommendations about management of these women. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Lymphoedema Functioning, Disability and Health Questionnaire for Lower Limb Lymphoedema (Lymph-ICF-LL): reliability and validity.

PubMed

Devoogdt, Nele; De Groef, An; Hendrickx, Ad; Damstra, Robert; Christiaansen, Anke; Geraerts, Inge; Vervloesem, Nele; Vergote, Ignace; Van Kampen, Marijke

2014-05-01

Patients may develop primary (congenital) or secondary (acquired) lymphedema, causing significant physical and psychosocial problems. To plan treatment for lymphedema and monitor a patient's progress, swelling, and problems in functioning associated with lymphedema development should be assessed at baseline and follow-up. The purpose of this study was to investigate the reliability (test-retest, internal consistency, and measurement variability) and validity (content and construct) of data obtained with the Lymphoedema Functioning, Disability and Health Questionnaire for Lower Limb Lymphoedema (Lymph-ICF-LL). This was a multicenter, cross-sectional study. The Lymph-ICF-LL is a descriptive, evaluative tool containing 28 questions about impairments in function, activity limitations, and participation restrictions in patients with lower limb lymphedema. The questionnaire has 5 domains: physical function, mental function, general tasks/household activities, mobility activities, and life domains/social life. The reliability and validity of the Lymph-ICF-LL were examined in 30 participants with objective lower limb lymphedema. Intraclass correlation coefficients for test-retest reliability ranged from .69 to .94, and Cronbach alpha coefficients for internal consistency ranged from .82 to .97. Measurement variability was acceptable (standard error of measurement=5.9-12.6). Content validity was good because all questions were understandable for 93% of participants, the scoring system (visual analog scale) was clear, and the questionnaire was comprehensive for 90% of participants. Construct validity was good. All hypotheses for assessing convergent validity and divergent validity were accepted. The known-groups validity and responsiveness of the Dutch Lymph-ICF-LL and the cross-cultural validity of the English version of the Lymph-ICF-LL were not investigated. The Lymph-ICF-LL is a Dutch questionnaire with evidence of reliability and validity for assessing impairments in function, activity limitations, and participation restrictions in people with primary or secondary lower limb lymphedema.

Dry-eye screening by using a functional visual acuity measurement system: the Osaka Study.

PubMed

Kaido, Minako; Uchino, Miki; Yokoi, Norihiko; Uchino, Yuichi; Dogru, Murat; Kawashima, Motoko; Komuro, Aoi; Sonomura, Yukiko; Kato, Hiroaki; Kinoshita, Shigeru; Tsubota, Kazuo

2014-05-06

We determined whether functional visual acuity (VA) parameters and a dry eyes (DEs) symptoms questionnaire could predict DEs in a population of visual terminal display (VDT) users. This prospective study included 491 VDT users from the Osaka Study. Subjects with definite DE, diagnosed with the presence of DE symptoms, tear abnormality (Schirmer test ≤ 5 mm or tear breakup time [TBUT] ≤ 5 seconds), and conjunctivocorneal epithelial damage (total staining score of ≥3 points), or probable DE, diagnosed with the presence of two of them, were assigned to a DE group, and the remainder to a non-DE group. Functional VA was assessed, and DE questionnaires were administered. We assessed whether univariate and discriminant analyses could determine to which group a subject belonged. Sensitivity and specificity were assessed. Of 491 subjects, 320 and 171 were assigned to the DE and non-DE groups, respectively. No significant differences were observed between DE and non-DE groups in Schirmer test value and epithelial damage, but TBUT value (3.1 ± 1.5 vs. 5.9 ± 3.0 seconds). The sensitivity and specificity of single test using functional VA parameters were 59% and 49% in functional VA, 60% and 50% in visual maintenance ratio, and 83% and 30% in frequency of blinking, respectively. According to a discriminant analysis using a combination of functional VA parameters and a DE questionnaire, six variables were selected for the discriminant equation, of which area under the curve (AUC) was 0.735. Sensitivity and specificity of diagnoses predicted by the discriminant equation were 85.9% and 45.6%, respectively. The discriminant equation obtained using functional VA measurement combined with a symptoms questionnaire may suggest the possibility for the first step screening of DE with unstable tear film. Since the questionnaire has an overall poor sensitivity and specificity, further amelioration may be necessary for the actual utilization of this screening tool. Copyright 2014 The Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc.

Predicting Persistent Back Symptoms by Psychosocial Risk Factors: Validity Criteria for the ÖMPSQ and the HKF-R 10 in Germany.

PubMed

Riewe, E; Neubauer, E; Pfeifer, A C; Schiltenwolf, M

2016-01-01

10% of all individuals in Germany develop persistent symptoms due to nonspecific back pain (NSBP) causing up to 90% of direct and indirect expenses for health care systems. Evidence indicates a strong relationship between chronic nonspecific back pain and psychosocial risk factors. The Örebro Musculoskeletal Pain Screening Questionnaire (ÖMPSQ) and the German Heidelberger Kurzfragebogen Rückenschmerz (HKF-R 10) are deemed valid in prediction of persistent pain, functional loss or amount of sick leave. This study provides and discusses validity criteria for these questionnaires using ROC-curve analyses. Quality measurements included sensitivity and specificity, likelihood-ratio related test-efficiencies and clinical utility in regard to predictive values. 265 patients recruited from primary and secondary care units completed both questionnaires during the same timeframe. From the total, 133 patients returned a 6-month follow-up questionnaire to assess the validity criteria for outcomes of pain, function and sick leave. Based on heterogeneous cut-offs for the ÖMPSQ, sensitivity and specificity were moderate for outcome of pain (72%/75%). Very high sensitivity was observed for function (97%/57%) and high specificity for sick leave (63%/85%). The latter also applied to the HKF-R 10 (pain 50%/84%). Proportions between sensitivity and specificity were unbalanced except for the ÖMPSQ outcome of pain. Likelihood-ratios and positive predictive values ranged from low to moderate. Although the ÖMPSQ may be considered useful in identification of long-term functional loss or pain, over- and underestimation of patients at risk of chronic noncspecific back pain led to limited test-efficiencies and clinical utility for both questionnaires. Further studies are required to quantify the predictive validity of both questionnaires in Germany.

A Morbidity Screening Tool for identifying fatigue, pain, upper limb dysfunction and lymphedema after breast cancer treatment: a validity study.

PubMed

Bulley, Catherine; Coutts, Fiona; Blyth, Christine; Jack, Wilma; Chetty, Udi; Barber, Matthew; Tan, Chee Wee

2014-04-01

This study aimed to investigate validity of a newly developed Morbidity Screening Tool (MST) to screen for fatigue, pain, swelling (lymphedema) and arm function after breast cancer treatment. A cross-sectional study included women attending reviews after completing treatment (surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy), without recurrence, who could read English. They completed the MST and comparator questionnaires: Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (DASH), Chronic Pain Grade Questionnaire (CPGQ), Lymphedema and Breast Cancer Questionnaire (LBCQ) and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy questionnaire with subscales for fatigue (FACT F) and breast cancer (FACT B + 4). Bilateral combined shoulder ranges of motion were compared (upward reach; hand behind back) and percentage upper limb volume difference (%LVD =/>10% diagnosed as lymphedema) measured with the vertical perometer (400T). 613 of 617 participants completed questionnaires (mean age 62.3 years, SD 10.0; mean time since treatment 63.0 months, SD 46.6) and 417 completed objective testing. Morbidity prevalence was estimated as 35.8%, 21.9%, 19.8% and 34.4% for fatigue, impaired upper limb function, lymphedema and pain respectively. Comparing those self-reporting the presence or absence of each type of morbidity, statistically significant differences in comparator variables supported validity of the MST. Statistically significant correlations resulted between MST scores focussing on impact of morbidity, and comparator variables that reflect function and quality of life. Analysis supports the validity of all four short-forms of the MST as providing indications of both presence of morbidity and impacts on participants' lives. This may facilitate early and appropriate referral for intervention. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Sexual function of young women with myelomeningocele.

PubMed

Gamé, Xavier; Moscovici, Jacques; Guillotreau, Julien; Roumiguié, Mathieu; Rischmann, Pascal; Malavaud, Bernard

2014-06-01

To assess the sexual function of young women with spina bifida and myelomeningocele and to determine the factors influencing their sexual function. A postal cross-sectional study using a self-administered questionnaire was performed in 44 women, mean age 27.66 ± 5.89 years, with spina bifida and myelomeningocele. The questionnaire included the Brief Index of Sexual Functioning for Women and questions about voiding mode, urinary symptoms, socioeconomic status, education level, lifestyle, and partnership. In parallel, data were also collected from the paediatric surgery records of patients who returned the questionnaire. The response rate was 56.8% (25/44). All domains of female sexual function (thoughts/desires, arousal, frequency of sexual activity, receptivity/initiation, pleasure/orgasm, relationship satisfaction) were altered. Urinary incontinence was likely to be the main factor responsible for altered sexual function and was associated with lower thoughts/desires, arousal, and receptivity/initiation scores. Wearing pads also constituted a limitation to achieving intimacy. Young myelomeningocele women report poor sexual functioning. The presence of urinary incontinence is associated with lower thoughts/desire, arousal, and receptivity/initiation. Copyright © 2013 Journal of Pediatric Urology Company. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Benefit of pelvic floor muscle therapy in improving sexual function in women with stress urinary incontinence: a pretest-posttest intervention study.

PubMed

Serati, Maurizio; Braga, Andrea; Di Dedda, Maria Carmela; Sorice, Paola; Peano, Elena; Biroli, Antonella; Torella, Marco; Cromi, Antonella; Uccella, Stefano; Salvatore, Stefano; Ghezzi, Fabio

2015-01-01

Very few data are available on the effect of pelvic floor muscle training on sexual function in incontinent women. The authors used the Female Sexual Function Index to assess the effect of pelvic floor muscle training on female sexual function. Participants included women with stress urinary incontinence, without overactive bladder symptoms, who completed a 3-month pelvic floor muscle training. All patients completed the Female Sexual Function Index and the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form at baseline and at the 3-month follow-up. Thirty-four patients completed all of the questionnaires; 64.7% patients were referred with stress urinary incontinence without sexual disorders, while 35.3% complained of stress urinary incontinence and sexual symptoms. The International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form score significantly decreased after 3 months of pelvic floor muscle training (p =.01). The Female Sexual Function Index score significantly improved after pelvic floor muscle training even in women with sexual disorders (12.5 ± 9.5 vs. 29.7 ± 3.7; p <.001). This study showed that pelvic floor muscle training may improve female sexual function in women with pure stress urinary incontinence.

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.

Assessment of postoperative outcomes of hypospadias repair with validated questionnaires.

PubMed

Liu, Mona M Y; Holland, Andrew J A; Cass, Danny T

2015-12-01

A standardized assessment for the optimal repair of hypospadias remains elusive. This study utilized validated questionnaires to assess the postoperative functional, cosmetic, and psychosocial outcomes of hypospadias repair. 172 patients who underwent hypospadias repair under the care of a single surgeon were identified. 25 agreed for follow-up using the validated questionnaires of Hypospadias Objective Scoring Evaluation (HOSE), Pediatric Penile Perception Scale (PPPS), and Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL™4.0). Mean follow-up was 59months postoperatively (range 7-113months). Techniques used included tubularized incised plate urethroplasty, meatal advancement and glanuloplasty, and a 2-stage repair. 23 of 25 patients achieved a HOSE score of 14 or more (maximum of 16). The PPPS scores correlated with severity of the hypospadias. Those with glanular hypospadias (mean score=10) scored higher than those with coronal (mean score=9) and penile/penoscrotal hypospadias (mean score=7). There was no correlation between PedsQL™4.0 scores and the severity of hypospadias or procedure used. Validated questionnaires revealed generally good functional, cosmetic, and early psychosocial outcomes after hypospadias repair. The use of validated questionnaires in routine follow-up sessions may facilitate objective assessment of both functional outcomes and patient satisfaction. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Olfactory function and quality of life after olfaction rehabilitation in total laryngectomees.

PubMed

Santos, Christiane Gouvêa Dos; Bergmann, Anke; Coça, Kaliani Lima; Garcia, Angela Albuquerque; Valente, Tânia Cristina de Oliveira

2016-01-01

To evaluate the effects of olfaction rehabilitation in the olfactory function and quality of life of total laryngectomized patients. Pre-post intervention clinical study conducted with total laryngectomees submitted to olfaction rehabilitation by means of the Nasal Airflow-Inducing Maneuver (NAIM) using the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT), Olfactory Acuity Questionnaires, a Monitoring Questionnaire, and the University of Washington Quality of Life Questionnaire (UW-QOL). Participants were 45 total laryngectomees. Before olfaction rehabilitation, 48.9% of the participants had their olfactic abilities classified as anosmia, 46.8% as microsmia, and 4.4% were considered within the normal range. After olfaction rehabilitation, 4.4% of the participants were classified as anosmia and 31.1% were within the normal range. In the Smell Identification Test, the mean score after rehabilitation showed statistically significant improvement. Reponses to the Olfactory Acuity Questionnaires after rehabilitation showed improvement in the frequency of perception regarding smell, taste, and the ability to smell perfume, food, leaking gas, and smoke, after learning the maneuver. Although the scores in the Quality of Life Questionnaire already indicated good quality of life before the surgery, post-intervention values were statistically significant. Olfaction rehabilitation improves olfactory function and has a positive impact on the activities of daily living and quality of life of total laryngectomized patients.

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.

[Introduction of the Screening Tool OncoFunction for Functional Follow-up of Head and Neck Patients].

PubMed

Zebralla, V; Pohle, N; Singer, S; Neumuth, T; Dietz, A; Stier-Jarmer, M; Boehm, A

2016-02-01

The follow-up for head and neck cancer (HNC) focussed on therapy control. Accessory long term functionality is important. Impairment of function is observed, but a comparable documentation is not established. Additional we frequently see psychooncological comorbidities, what complicates the assessment. This was the reason why Tschiesner et al. developed on the base of the "ICF Core set for head and neck cancer" a guideline for the Assessment of Function in HNC. In consequence of good results in other tumour entities we developed an electronic version (OncoFunction). In a proof of concept study all patients of our follow up consultation from 07/13 to 03/14 were included. OncoFunction was given to patients in a digital form using tablet computers. The results were visible to the physician in a concentrated form before consultation and were supplemented by a physician questionnaire. Furthermore we evaluated the usability in 202 patients. We had 682 patient contacts. 530 patient contacts (77, 7%) used the questionnaire. The physician questionnaire was answered in 470 times. Finally there are from 69.8% of the patient contacts full datasets available. Between users and non-users of the questionnaire we see no difference. The use of a computer-based screening and feedback system (OncoFunction) in clinical use is feasible and excellent assessed by patients. The patient data are visible in a compact form for the physician and problems can clear addressed to the patient. One more benefit is the standardized follow up documentation and the use of comparable data in research. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Family functioning and trait emotional intelligence among youth.

PubMed

Alavi, Masoumeh; Mehrinezhad, Seyed Abolghasem; Amini, Mansour; Parthaman Singh, Minder Kaur A/P

2017-01-01

This study explored the relationship between family functioning and trait emotional intelligence among 547 respondents, between the age of 16 and 24 years from Malaysia, Iran, China, Sudan, Somalia, Morocco, the United Kingdom, Germany and the Netherlands. The questionnaires were Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scale III and Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire Short Form. Pearson correlation analysis revealed a significant relationship between family functioning and trait emotional intelligence. The higher the family functioning, the higher the trait emotional intelligence among youths. The findings provide a deeper understanding in the field of family functioning and trait emotional intelligence and have implications for parents, administrators and child relationships dealing with trait emotional intelligence.

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.

Development and validation of a questionnaire to measure the severity of functional limitations and reduction of sports ability in German-speaking patients with exercise-induced leg pain.

PubMed

Nauck, Tanja; Lohrer, Heinz; Padhiar, Nat; King, John B

2015-01-01

Currently, there is no generally agreed measure available to quantify a subject's perceived severity of exercise-induced leg pain symptoms. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a questionnaire that measures the severity of symptoms that impact on function and sports ability in patients with exercise-induced leg pain. The exercise-induced leg pain questionnaire for German-speaking patients (EILP-G) was developed in five steps: (1) initial item generation, (2) item reduction, (3) pretesting, (4) expert meeting and (5) validation. The resulting EILP-G was tested for reliability, validity and internal consistency in 20 patients with exercise-induced leg pain, 20 asymptomatic track and field athletes serving as a population at risk and 33 asymptomatic sport students. The patient group scored the EILP-G questionnaire significantly lower than both control groups (each p<0.001). Test-retest demonstrates an excellent reliability in all tested groups (Intraclass Correlation Coefficient, ICC=0.861-0.987). Concurrent validity of the EILP-G questionnaire showed a substantial agreement when correlated with the chronic exertional compartment syndrome classification system of Schepsis (r=-0.743; p<0.001). Internal consistency for the EILP-G questionnaire was 0.924. EILP-G questionnaire is a valid and reliable self-administered and disease-related outcome tool to measure the severity of symptoms that impact on function and sports ability in patients with exercise-induced leg pain. It can be recommended as a robust tool for measuring the subjectively perceived severity in German-speaking patients with exercise-induced leg pain. 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.

Towards Tailored Patient's Management Approach: Integrating the Modified 2010 ACR Criteria for Fibromyalgia in Multidimensional Patient Reported Outcome Measures Questionnaire

PubMed Central

El Miedany, Yasser; El Gaafary, Maha; Youssef, Sally; Ahmed, Ihab

2016-01-01

Objectives. To assess the validity, reliability, and responsiveness to change of a patient self-reported questionnaire combining the Widespread Pain Index and the Symptom Severity Score as well as construct outcome measures and comorbidities assessment in fibromyalgia patients. Methods. The PROMs-FM was conceptualized based on frameworks used by the WHO Quality of Life tool and the PROMIS. Initially, cognitive interviews were conducted to identify item pool of questions. Item selection and reduction were achieved based on patients as well as an interdisciplinary group of specialists. Rasch and internal consistency reliability analyses were implemented. The questionnaire included the modified ACR criteria main items (Symptom Severity Score and Widespread Pain Index), in addition to assessment of functional disability, quality of life (QoL), review of the systems, and comorbidities. Every patient completed HAQ and EQ-5D questionnaires. Results. A total of 146 fibromyalgia patients completed the questionnaire. The PROMs-FM questionnaire was reliable as demonstrated by a high standardized alpha (0.886–0.982). Content construct assessment of the functional disability and QoL revealed significant correlation (p < 0.01) with both HAQ and EQ-5D. Changes in functional disability and QoL showed significant (p < 0.01) variation with diseases activity status in response to therapy. There was higher prevalence of autonomic symptoms, CVS risk, sexual dysfunction, and falling. Conclusions. The developed PROMs-FM questionnaire is a reliable and valid instrument for assessment of fibromyalgia patients. A phased treatment regimen depending on the severity of FMS as well as preferences and comorbidities of the patient is the best approach to tailored patient management. PMID:27190648

Urogenital function in robotic vs laparoscopic rectal cancer surgery: a comparative study.

PubMed

Panteleimonitis, Sofoklis; Ahmed, Jamil; Ramachandra, Meghana; Farooq, Muhammad; Harper, Mick; Parvaiz, Amjad

2017-02-01

Urological and sexual dysfunction are recognised risks of rectal cancer surgery; however, there is limited evidence regarding urogenital function comparing robotic to laparoscopic techniques. The aim of this study was to assess the urogenital functional outcomes of patients undergoing laparoscopic and robotic rectal cancer surgery. Urological and sexual functions were assessed using gender-specific validated standardised questionnaires. Questionnaires were sent a minimum of 6 months after surgery, and patients were asked to report their urogenital function pre- and post-operatively, allowing changes in urogenital function to be identified. Questionnaires were sent to 158 patients (89 laparoscopy, 69 robotic) of whom 126 (80 %) responded. Seventy-eight (49 male, 29 female) of the responders underwent laparoscopic and 48 (35 male, 13 female) robotic surgery. Male patients in the robotic group deteriorated less across all components of sexual function and in five components of urological function. Composite male urological and sexual function score changes from baseline were better in the robotic cohort (p < 0.001). In females, there was no difference between the two groups in any of the components of urological or sexual function. However, composite female urological function score change from baseline was better in the robotic group (p = 0.003). Robotic rectal cancer surgery might offer better post-operative urological and sexual outcomes compared to laparoscopic surgery in male patients and better urological outcomes in females. Larger scale, prospective randomised control studies including urodynamic assessment of urogenital function are required to validate these results.

Self-Reported Physical Activity within and outside the Neighborhood: Criterion-Related Validity of the Neighborhood Physical Activity Questionnaire in German Older Adults

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bödeker, Malte; Bucksch, Jens; Wallmann-Sperlich, Birgit

2018-01-01

The Neighborhood Physical Activity Questionnaire allows to assess physical activity within and outside the neighborhood. Study objectives were to examine the criterion-related validity and health/functioning associations of Neighborhood Physical Activity Questionnaire-derived physical activity in German older adults. A total of 107 adults aged…

Factor Stability of Primary Scales of the General Organization Questionnaire

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-10-01

leadership , climate , and processes function optimally. The Leadership and Organizational Effectiveness Work Unit re- searches personal, small-group...the Litwin and Stringer (1968) Organizational Climate Questionnaire found a factor structure that was dif- ferent from the a priori structure...number) General Organization Questionnaire (GOQ) Organizational climate Organizational effectiveness 20. ATRACT (Cnm N eriwem7 d Iderntify by block numbst

Factors accounting for psychosocial functioning in patients with low back pain

PubMed Central

Steuden, Stanisława; Kuryłowicz, Joanna

2009-01-01

Low back pain (LBP) is a chronic disorder which exerts a profound impact on various spheres of psychosocial functioning, including emotional distress, functional limitations and decrements in social contacts. The objective of this study was to investigate the associations between the indices of psychosocial functioning in patients with chronic LBP and a range of psychological factors. Specifically, the study aimed at exploring the relative participation of personality, social support, disease-related cognitive appraisals and coping styles in accounting for the differences in psychosocial functioning of patients with LBP. One-hundred-twenty patients with LBP took part in the study and completed a battery of psychological questionnaires: NEO–Five Factors Inventory, Ways of Coping Questionnaire, Disease-Related Social Support Scale, Disease-Related Appraisals Scale and Psychosocial Functioning Questionnaire (PFQ). The PFQ dimensions were used as dependent variables in a series of stepwise regression analysis models with the scores from other questionnaires entered as independent variables. A cognitive appraisal of the disease in terms of an obstacle was strongly related to all domains of functioning; however, other appraisals (threat, challenge, harm, profit and overall disease importance) were uniquely associated with particular domains of functioning. Deprivation of social support was a significant predictor of distress experienced in interpersonal context and of sense of being disabled. Among basic personality traits, agreeableness was negatively associated with distress in interpersonal context, and conscientiousness was positively related to acceptance of life with the disease. Problem-focus coping was linked to higher acceptance of life with the disease. Among sociodemographic variables, older age and lower educational level were related to greater subjective feelings of being disabled. Pain severity was found unrelated to any of psychosocial functioning domains. Different aspects of psychosocial functioning are best accounted for by diverse patterns of psychological factors, which suggests involvement of different psychological mechanisms in development of LBP-related disability. PMID:19756782

A School-Based Study with Rome III Criteria on the Prevalence of Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders in Chinese College and University Students

PubMed Central

Dong, Yan-Yan; Chen, Fei-Xue; Yu, Yan-Bo; Du, Chao; Qi, Qing-Qing; Liu, Han; Li, Yan-Qing

2013-01-01

Background Functional gastrointestinal disorders, including functional dyspepsia, irritable bowel syndrome and functional constipation are very common worldwide. Objective This research aims to estimate the prevalence and associated factors involved in functional gastrointestinal disorders in Chinese college and university students using the Rome III criteria. Methods A total of 5000 students from Shandong University in China were asked in January-May 2012 to complete questionnaires, including the Rome III questionnaire, hospital anxiety and depression scale, and negative life events scale. Results Based on the 4638 students who completed the questionnaire, the prevalence of functional dyspepsia, irritable bowel syndrome and functional constipation in college and university students of North China worked out to be 9.25%, 8.34% and 5.45% respectively. They were more frequent in female students. The factors of anxiety (OR 1.07; 95% CI 0.99 to 1.16, P = 0.002<0.05) and depression (OR 0.55; 95% CI 0.15 to 1.05, P = 0.045<0.05) indicated a high risk of causing irritable bowel syndrome. Conclusion Functional dyspepsia, irritable bowel syndrome and functional constipation were common in college and university students of North China. Psychological disorders such as anxiety and depression provide significant risk factors for irritable bowel syndrome patients. PMID:23349820

Pain, functional disability, and psychologic status in tennis elbow.

PubMed

Alizadehkhaiyat, Omid; Fisher, Anthony C; Kemp, Graham J; Frostick, Simon P

2007-01-01

First to compare pain and functional disability in tennis elbow (TE) patients with healthy controls. Second, to evaluate the relationship between the 2 major psychologic factors (anxiety and depression) and TE. Sixteen TE patients were recruited from 46 consecutive attendees at an upper limb clinic: inclusion criteria were lateral epicondyle tenderness, pain with resisted wrist and middle finger extension and at least 3 months localized lateral elbow pain. Sixteen healthy controls with no upper limb problem were recruited from students and staff. Participants were given 4 questionnaires, together with instructions for completion: Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand, Patient-Rated Forearm Evaluation Questionnaire, Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation Questionnaire, and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. The independent t test was used to compare the total and subscale scores between the groups. Significantly higher scores were found in TE for pain and function subscales and also total score for Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand, Patient-Rated Forearm Evaluation Questionnaire, and Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation Questionnaire. For Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, both anxiety and depression subscales (P<0.001) and the total score (P<0.01) were significantly higher in TE. According to the anxiety and depression subscales, 55% and 36% of patients, respectively, were classified as probable cases (score >11). TE patients showed markedly increased pain and functional disability. Significantly elevated levels of depression and anxiety pointed out the importance of psychologic assessment in TE patients. In the development of supportive and treatment strategies, we suggest the combination of "upper limb" and "psychologic" assessment tools.

[Cultural adaptation of the female pelvic floor questionnaire (FPFQ) into French].

PubMed

Deparis, J; Bonniaud, V; Desseauve, D; Guilhot, J; Masanovic, M; De Tayrac, R; Fauconnier, A; Fritel, X

2017-09-01

The Female Pelvic Floor Questionnaire (FPFQ) is a self-administered tool on pelvic floor function. Our aim was to carry out a cultural adaptation of the FPFQ into French and to assess its psychometric properties. After cross-cultural adaptation into French, acceptability and reliability of the questionnaire were assessed through a sample of 56 women in a test-retest. Discriminative construct validity was evaluated by comparing the results obtained by the FPFQ to those of other validated questionnaires. Longitudinal follow-up of the 282 pregnant women included in the PreNatal Pelvic floor Prevention trial (3PN) was used to analyze responsiveness. The proportion of missing data did not exceed 4 % for questions about bladder function, bowel function and pelvic organ prolapse; 10 % for issues related to sexual function. Question 9 was considered difficult to understand by 14 % of women. After rewriting, this issue was retested in a new sample of 52 women and presented no further problems. The intra-class correlation coefficient was greater than or equal to 0.7 for all domains during the test-retest. The FPFQ was strongly and significantly correlated (Spearman r>0.5) with the other validated questionnaires. The French version of FPFQ recorded changes in urinary and sexual symptoms for the women involved in 3PN trial with a standardized response mean equal to 0.83 and 0.44, respectively. The French version of the FPFQ is self-administered, reliable, valid, and can detect a change in symptoms during follow-up. Level 4. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

A Brazilian Portuguese version of the Revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQR): a validation study.

PubMed

Paiva, Eduardo S; Heymann, Roberto E; Rezende, Marcelo C; Helfenstein, Milton; Martinez, Jose Eduardo; Provenza, Jose Roberto; Ranzolin, Aline; de Assis, Marcos Renato; Pasqualin, Vivian D; Bennett, Robert M

2013-08-01

The Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) was specifically developed to assess disease severity and functional ability in fibromyalgia patients. In 2009, a revised version of the FIQ was published, the FIQR; this version achieved a better balance among different domains (function, overall impact, symptoms). Here, we present the validity and reliability of the Brazilian version of the Revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQR). Female fibromyalgia patients (n = 106) completed an online survey consisting of the Short Form 36 (SF-36) questionnaire, the original FIQ, and the Brazilian Portuguese FIQR, which was translated by a standard method. Validity was established with correlational analyses between the FIQR, FIQ, and SF-36 items. Three domains were established for the FIQR (function, overall impact, symptoms), and their contribution for the SF-36 subscales was also scrutinized. The Brazilian FIQR validation process showed that the questions performed in a very similar way to the original English FIQR. The new questions in the FIQR symptoms domain (memory, balance, tenderness, and environmental sensitivity) revealed a significant impact in fibromyalgia (FM) patients. The Brazilian Portuguese FIQR demonstrated excellent reliability, with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.96. There was a gain on weight of the function domain and a decrease of the symptom domain, leading to a better balance among domains. The FIQR predicted a great number of SF-36 subscales, showing good convergent validity. The Brazilian Portuguese version of the FIQR was validated and found to be a reliable, easy-to-use, and score FM-specific questionnaire that should prove useful in routine clinical practice and FM-related research.

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.

Differential item functional analysis on pedagogic and content knowledge (PCK) questionnaire for Indonesian teachers using RASCH model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rahmani, B. D.

2018-01-01

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate Indonesian senior high school teacher’s pedagogical content knowledge also their perception toward curriculum changing in West Java Indonesia. The data used in this study were derived from a questionnaire survey conducted among teachers in Bandung, West Java. A total of 61 usable responses were collected. The Differential Item Functioning (DIFF) was used to analyze the data whether the item had a difference or not toward gender, education background also on school location. However, the result showed that there was no any significant difference on gender and school location toward the item response but educational background. As a conclusion, the teacher’s educational background influence on giving the response to the questionnaire. Therefore, it is suggested in the future to construct the items on the questionnaire which is coped the differences of the participant particularly the educational background.

Hearing preservation in the resection of vestibular schwannomas: patterns of hearing preservation and patient-assessed hearing function.

PubMed

Wind, Joshua J; Leonetti, John P; Raffin, Michael J M; Pisansky, Marc T; Herr, Brian; Triemstra, Justin D; Anderson, Douglas E

2011-05-01

No extant literature documents the analysis of patient perceptions of hearing as a corollary to objective audiometric measures in patients with vestibular schwannoma (VS), or acoustic neuroma. Therefore, using objective audiometric data and patient perceptions of hearing function as outlined on a questionnaire, the authors evaluated the hearing of patients who underwent VS resection. This investigation involved a retrospective review of 176 patients who had undergone VS resections in which hearing preservation was a goal. Both pre- and postoperative audiometry, expressed as a speech discrimination score (SDS) and pure tone threshold average (PTA), were performed, and the results were analyzed. Intraoperative auditory brainstem responses were also recorded. Eighty-seven of the patients (49.4%) completed a postoperative questionnaire designed to assess hearing function in a variety of social and auditory situations. Multiple linear regression analyses were completed to compare available audiometric results with questionnaire responses for each patient. One hundred forty-two patients (80.7%) had PTA and SDS audiometric data pertaining to the surgically treated ear; 94 of these patients (66.2%) had measurable postoperative hearing, as defined by a PTA < 120 dB or SD > 0%. Eighty-seven patients (49.4%) completed the retrospective questionnaire, and 74 of them had complete audiometric data and thus were included in a comparative analysis. Questionnaire data showed major postoperative subjective hearing decrements, even among patients with the same pre- and postoperative objective audiometric hearing status. Moreover, the subscore reflecting hearing while exposed to background noise, or the "cocktail party effect," characterized the most significant patient-perceived hearing deficit following VS resection. The authors' analysis of a patient-perceived hearing questionnaire showed that hearing during exposure to background noise, or the cocktail party effect, represents a significant postoperative hearing deficit and that patient perception of this deficit has a strong relation with audiometric data. Furthermore, questionnaire responses revealed a significant disparity between subjective hearing function and standard audiometrics such that even with similar levels of audiometric data, subjective measures of hearing, especially the cocktail party effect, decreased postoperatively. The authors posit that the incorporation of patient-perceived hearing function evaluation along with standard audiometry is an illustrative means of identifying subjective hearing deficits after VS resection and may ultimately aid in specific and subsequent treatment for these patients.

The measurement of disability in the elderly: a systematic review of self-reported questionnaires.

PubMed

Yang, Ming; Ding, Xiang; Dong, Birong

2014-02-01

To analyze the contents and formats of general self-reported questionnaires on disability that are designed for and/or are widely applied in the elderly population to depict a complete picture of this field and help researchers to choose proper tools more efficiently. A broad systematic literature search was performed in September 2013 and included the following databases: MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and PROQOLID. The publication language was limited to English and Chinese. Two review authors independently performed the study selection and data extraction. All of the included instruments were extracted and classified using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health framework. Of 5569 articles retrieved from the searches and 156 articles retrieved from the pearling, 22 studies (including 24 questionnaires) fulfilled the inclusion criteria. From these, 42 different domains and 458 items were extracted. The most frequently used questionnaire was the Barthel Index followed by the Lawton and Brody Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale and the Katz Index of Activities of Daily Living, respectively. The contents and formats of the questionnaires varied considerably. Activities and participation were the most commonly assessed dimensions. In addition, the Activities of Daily Living, mobility and the Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale were the most common domains assessed among the included questionnaires. Among the 24 included questionnaires, the most frequently used questionnaires were the Barthel Index, Lawton and Brody Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale, and Katz Index of Activities of Daily Living. The content and format of the questionnaires varied considerably, but none of the questionnaires covered all essential dimensions of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health framework. Copyright © 2014 American Medical Directors Association, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Psychometric properties of the Nurses Work Functioning Questionnaire (NWFQ).

PubMed

Gärtner, Fania R; Nieuwenhuijsen, Karen; van Dijk, Frank J H; Sluiter, Judith K

2011-01-01

The Nurses Work Functioning Questionnaire (NWFQ) is a 50-item self-report questionnaire specifically developed for nurses and allied health professionals. Its seven subscales measure impairments in the work functioning due to common mental disorders. Aim of this study is to evaluate the psychometric properties of the NWFQ, by assessing reproducibility and construct validity. The questionnaire was administered to 314 nurses and allied health professionals with a re-test in 112 subjects. Reproducibility was assessed by the intraclass correlations coefficients (ICC) and the standard error of measurement (SEM). For construct validity, correlations were calculated with a general work functioning scale, the Endicott Work Productivity Scale (EWPS) (convergent validity) and with a physical functioning scale (divergent validity). For discriminative validity, a Mann Whitney U test was performed testing for significant differences between subjects with mental health complaints and without. All subscales showed good reliability (ICC: 0.72-0.86), except for one (ICC = 0.16). Convergent validity was good in six subscales, correlations ranged from 0.38-0.62. However, in one subscale the correlation with the EWPS was too low (0.22). Divergent validity was good in all subscales based on correlations ranged from (-0.06)-(-0.23). Discriminative validity was good in all subscales, based on significant differences between subjects with and without mental health complaints (p<0.001-p = 0.003). The NWFQ demonstrates good psychometric properties, for six of the seven subscales. Subscale "impaired decision making" needs improvement before further use.

Screening for depression in arthritis populations: an assessment of differential item functioning in three self-reported questionnaires.

PubMed

Hu, Jinxiang; Ward, Michael M

2017-09-01

To determine if persons with arthritis differ systematically from persons without arthritis in how they respond to questions on three depression questionnaires, which include somatic items such as fatigue and sleep disturbance. We extracted data on the Centers for Epidemiological Studies Depression (CES-D) scale, the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and the Kessler-6 (K-6) scale from three large population-based national surveys. We assessed items on these questionnaires for differential item functioning (DIF) between persons with and without self-reported physician-diagnosed arthritis using multiple indicator multiple cause models, which controlled for the underlying level of depression and important confounders. We also examined if DIF by arthritis status was similar between women and men. Although five items of the CES-D, one item of the PHQ-9, and five items of the K-6 scale had evidence of DIF based on statistical comparisons, the magnitude of each difference was less than the threshold of a small effect. The statistical differences were a function of the very large sample sizes in the surveys. Effect sizes for DIF were similar between women and men except for two items on the Patient Health Questionnaire-9. For each questionnaire, DIF accounted for 8% or less of the arthritis-depression association, and excluding items with DIF did not reduce the difference in depression scores between those with and without arthritis. Persons with arthritis respond to items on the CES-D, PHQ-9, and K-6 depression scales similarly to persons without arthritis, despite the inclusion of somatic items in these scales.

Assessment of female sexual function among women with pelvic organ prolapse or urinary incontinence via an Arabic validated short-form sexual questionnaire.

PubMed

Shaaban, Mohamed M; Abdelwahab, Hassan A; Ahmed, Magdy R; Shalaby, Essam

2014-01-01

To assess female sexual function among women with pelvic organ prolapse or urinary incontinence via an Arabic, validated, short-form sexual questionnaire (PISQ-12). The present study was conducted among women attending Suez Canal University Hospital, Ismailia, Egypt, between September 2009 and August 2011. In the pilot study, 42 women completed the final version of the Arabic PISQ-12 at recruitment and then 2 weeks later, and the data were compared to evaluate reliability and internal consistency. The formal comparative study included 154 premenopausal sexually active women: 80 control women, and 74 women with some degree of pelvic prolapse with or without stress incontinence. All participants had a vaginal examination and completed the questionnaire. The main outcome measures were the mean questionnaire scores within its 3 domains (behavioral, physical, and partner-related). The test-retest reliability and internal consistency of the Arabic PISQ-12 were excellent. Validity was approved by an expert panel. The case group had a significantly lower mean total questionnaire score (31.07 ± 4.2 vs 34.7 ± 6.2; P<0.05) but a higher partner-related score (9.0 ± 2.4 vs 8.4 ± 2.5; P<0.05). The Arabic version of PISQ-12 was shown to be an effective and objective method of evaluating sexual function among patients with pelvic organ prolapse. © 2013.

[Comparative analysis of visual function and the quality of life index with eyeglasses or a progressive contact lens].

PubMed

Sant'Anna, Neusa Vidal; Schor, Paulo; Lipener, César; Uras, Ricardo

2006-01-01

To compare the visual function and the answers to a questionnaire of quality of life of patients wearing a progressive contact lens or eyeglasses. The Focus Progressive contact lens had been fitted in 35 patients with far visual acuity with progressive-addition eyeglasses equal to zero (log MAR) and near J1 (Jaeger). The far and near visual acuities and the measurement of contrast sensitivity were compared when the patients were wearing the eyeglasses or the contact lens and the patients' results of the scores of the quality of life questionnaire (NEI VFQ-25) were analyzed statistically considering the type of ametropy and the age. The far and near visual acuities and the contrast sensitivity measurement were worse with the contact lens than with eyeglasses. The answers to the questionnaire did not differ when were comparing the same patients wearing eyeglasses or contact lens, no matter the type of ametropy. The myopic and the hyperopic subgroups had worse answers to the quality of life questionnaire when corrected with the contact lens than with eyeglasses, both with age equal to or less than their median. The visual function was worse with the contact lens. The type of ametropy did not influence the answers to the quality of life questionnaire considering the optical correction, but age did.

Mood disorders and sexual functioning in women with functional hypothalamic amenorrhea.

PubMed

Dundon, Carolyn M; Rellini, Alessandra H; Tonani, Silvia; Santamaria, Valentina; Nappi, Rosella

2010-11-01

To investigate the sexual function of women with functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (FHA) and to test the mediating effects of depression and anxiety on the sexual functioning of women with FHA. In this cross-sectional study, participants completed questionnaires on sexual function, depression, and anxiety. Tertiary care university hospital. Women with (n=41) and without (n=39) FHA recruited from a gynecologic endocrinology unit. None. The McCoy Female Sexuality Questionnaire assessed sexual function, and the Zung Scale measured depression and anxiety. Women with FHA experienced more sexual function problems and significantly higher depression and anxiety compared to women without menstrual dysfunction. In addition, depression offered a significant explanation for the sexual problems experienced by women with FHA. The psychologic symptoms that contribute to the onset of FHA partially mediate the relationship between FHA and sexual dysfunction. Copyright © 2010 American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Assessing the test-retest repeatability of the Vietnamese version of the National Eye Institute 25-item Visual Function Questionnaire among bilateral cataract patients for a Vietnamese population.

PubMed

To, Kien Gia; Meuleners, Lynn; Chen, Huei-Yang; Lee, Andy; Do, Dung Van; Duong, Dat Van; Phi, Tien Duy; Tran, Hoang Huy; Nguyen, Nguyen Do

2014-06-01

To determine the test-retest repeatability of the National Eye Institute 25-item Visual Function Questionnaire (NEI VFQ-25) for use with older Vietnamese adults with bilateral cataract. The questionnaire was translated into Vietnamese and back-translated into English by two independent translators. Patients with bilateral cataract aged 50 and older completed the questionnaire on two separate occasions, one to two weeks after first administration of the questionnaire. Test-retest repeatability was assessed using the Cronbach's α and intraclass correlation coefficients. The average age of participants was 67 ± 8 years and most participants were female (73%). Internal consistency was acceptable with the α coefficient above 0.7 for all subscales and intraclass correlation coefficients were 0.6 or greater in all subscales. The Vietnamese NEI VFQ-25 is reliable for use in studies assessing vision-related quality of life in older adults with bilateral cataract in Vietnam. We propose some modifications to the NEI-VFQ questions to reflect activities of older people in Vietnam. © 2013 ACOTA.

The Systemic Sclerosis Questionnaire (SySQ): Validation of the translation of the original German version into Spanish and its relationship to the disease and to quality of life.

PubMed

Cruz-Domínguez, Maria Pilar; Casarrubias-Ramírez, Moisés; Gasca-Martínez, Victor; Maldonado García, Cindy; Carranza-Muleiro, Rosa Angélica; Medina, Gabriela; García-Collinot, Grettel; Montes-Cortes, Daniel Hector

2017-12-11

Translation, transculturation and validity of the self-administered questionnaire for functionality (Systemic Sclerosis Questionnaires [SySQ]) for use in Spanish patients with systemic sclerosis and its relationship to the severity of the disease and to quality of life. We conducted an observational analytical study to perform a cross-cultural validation of the self-administered questionnaire on functionality in scleroderma. The validity of the form and content was evaluated by an expert panel. The method included: a) adaptation into Spanish of the construct for translation and back translation, and transculturation; b) internal consistency with the SySQ (Cronbach's alpha), and c) reproducibility was assessed taking into account all occasions in which the test was performed with Cohen's kappa. Additionally, we calculated the Spearman correlation coefficient with the Medsger severity scale, Health Assessment Questionnaire score and SF-36 score. We included 70 patients with systemic sclerosis: age 17-78 (51±12) years, 65 (93%) were women, diffuse/limited subtype 64/36%, disease duration of 0.5-40 years. Optimal internal consistency for all categories of the final version of SySQ (Cronbach's α of 0.961) and intraobserver reliability in 2 tests over a 2-week interval (Cohen's kappa coefficient 0.618) and optimal interobserver reliability in 2 tests on the same day (Cohen's kappa coefficient 0.911). Moderate correlation between functionality by SySQ and by Health Assessment Questionnaire (r=0.573, P<.0001). Inverse correlation between SySQ and quality of life mental health domain SF-36 (r=-0.435, P<.001) and physical domain SF-36 (r=-0.638, P<.001). Medsger severity scale (tendon, heart, lung, vascular) also showed significant correlation with SySQ. SySQ in this validated Spanish version is a suitable instrument to measure functional status in patients with systemic sclerosis. Reduced functionality is related to greater tendon and peripheral vascular involvement and to a poorer quality of life. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier España, S.L.U. and Sociedad Española de Reumatología y Colegio Mexicano de Reumatología. All rights reserved.

The Development of a Nystagmus-Specific Quality-of-Life Questionnaire.

PubMed

McLean, Rebecca J; Maconachie, Gail D E; Gottlob, Irene; Maltby, John

2016-09-01

To develop a nystagmus-specific quality-of-life (QOL) questionnaire derived from patient concerns based on eudaimonic aspects of well-being. Cross-sectional study. A total of 206 participants with nystagmus for factor analysis phase and an additional 42 participants with nystagmus for construct validity phase. Questionnaire items were written on the basis of the 6 domains of everyday living affected by nystagmus that were elicited by previous semistructured interviews conducted with 21 people with nystagmus. After consultation with 8 nystagmus experts, 37 items were administered to 206 people with nystagmus. Factor analysis was used to identify latent factors among the items and identify items to propose new nystagmus QOL scales. Cronbach's alpha was used to assess the internal reliability of the new scales. To assess for discriminate and concurrent validity between the new nystagmus scales and an existing vision-related QOL tool, the Visual Function Questionnaire-25 (VFQ-25) was administered to 42 additional participants. Questionnaire response scores on nystagmus-specific QOL items. The factor analysis revealed the retention of 29 items to form a measure comprising 2 distinct subscales reflecting "personal and social" and "physical and environmental" functioning as relating to nystagmus-specific QOL. The Cronbach's alpha coefficients for the "personal and social" functioning scale and "physical and environmental" functioning were 0.95 and 0.93, respectively. Tests for validity of the measure, consistent with a priori predictions, when compared with the VFQ-25, revealed the "physical and environmental" subscale showed concurrent validity (0.88), whereas the "personal and social" subscale was demonstrated to have discriminative validity (0.81). We have developed a 29-item, nystagmus-specific QOL questionnaire (NYS-29) based on eudaimonic aspects of well-being with subscales that address not only physical functioning but also psycho-social issues. The NYS-29 is grounded in the perspectives and concerns of those who have nystagmus and can be used to determine the impact of nystagmus on daily living in terms of both physical and psychosocial aspects. Copyright © 2016 American Academy of Ophthalmology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Validation of the Preverbal Visual Assessment (PreViAs) questionnaire.

PubMed

García-Ormaechea, Inés; González, Inmaculada; Duplá, María; Andres, Eva; Pueyo, Victoria

2014-10-01

Visual cognitive integrative functions need to be evaluated by a behavioral assessment, which requires an experienced evaluator. The Preverbal Visual Assessment (PreViAs) questionnaire was designed to evaluate these functions, both in general pediatric population or in children with high risk of visual cognitive problems, through primary caregivers' answers. We aimed to validate the PreViAs questionnaire by comparing caregiver reports with results from a comprehensive clinical protocol. A total of 220 infants (<2 years old) were divided into two groups according to visual development, as determined by the clinical protocol. Their primary caregivers completed the PreViAs questionnaire, which consists of 30 questions related to one or more visual domains: visual attention, visual communication, visual-motor coordination, and visual processing. Questionnaire answers were compared with results of behavioral assessments performed by three pediatric ophthalmologists. Results of the clinical protocol classified 128 infants as having normal visual maturation, and 92 as having abnormal visual maturation. The specificity of PreViAs questionnaire was >80%, and sensitivity was 64%-79%. More than 80% of the infants were correctly classified, and test-retest reliability exceeded 0.9 for all domains. The PreViAs questionnaire is useful to detect abnormal visual maturation in infants from birth to 24months of age. It improves the anamnesis process in infants at risk of visual dysfunctions. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.

Catquest-9SF questionnaire: validation of Malay and Chinese-language versions using Rasch analysis.

PubMed

Adnan, Tassha Hilda; Mohamed Apandi, Mokhlisoh; Kamaruddin, Haireen; Salowi, Mohamad Aziz; Law, Kian Boon; Haniff, Jamaiyah; Goh, Pik Pin

2018-01-05

Catquest questionnaire was originally developed in Swedish to measure patients' self-assessed visual function to evaluate the benefit of cataract surgery. The result of the Rasch analysis leading to the creation of the nine-item short form of Catquest, (Catquest-9SF), and it had been translated and validated in English. The aim is therefore to evaluate the translated Catquest-9SF questionnaire in Malay and Chinese (Mandarin) language version for measuring patient-reported visual function among cataract population in Malaysia. The English version of Catquest-9SF questionnaire was translated and back translated into Malay and Chinese languages. The Malay and Chinese translated versions were self-administered by 236 and 202 pre-operative patients drawn from a cataract surgery waiting list, respectively. The translated Catquest-9SF data and its four response options were assessed for fit to the Rasch model. The Catquest-9SF performed well in the Malay and Chinese translated versions fulfilling all criteria for valid measurement, as demonstrated by Rasch analysis. Both versions of questionnaire had ordered response thresholds, with a good person separation (Malay 2.84; and Chinese 2.59) and patient separation reliability (Malay 0.89; Chinese 0.87). Targeting was 0.30 and -0.11 logits in Malay and Chinese versions respectively, indicating that the item difficulty was well suited to the visual abilities of the patients. All items fit a single overall construct (Malay infit range 0.85-1.26, outfit range 0.73-1.13; Chinese infit range 0.80-1.51, outfit range 0.71-1.36), unidimensional by principal components analysis, and was free of Differential Item Functioning (DIF). These results support the good overall functioning of the Catquest-9SF in patients with cataract. The translated questionnaire to Malay and Chinese-language versions are reliable and valid in measuring visual disability outcomes in the Malaysian cataract population.

[Shoulder disability questionnaires: a systematic review].

PubMed

Fayad, F; Mace, Y; Lefevre-Colau, M M

2005-07-01

To identify all available shoulder disability questionnaires designed to measure physical functioning and to examine those with satisfactory clinimetric quality. We used the Medline database and the "Guide des outils de mesure de l'évaluation en médecine physique et de réadaptation" textbook to search for questionnaires. Analysis took into account the development methodology, clinimetric quality of the instruments and frequency of their utilization. We classified the instruments according to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health. Thirty-eight instruments have been developed to measure disease-, shoulder- or upper extremity-specific outcome. Four scales assess upper-extremity disability and 3 others shoulder disability. We found 6 scales evaluating disability and shoulder pain, 7 scales measuring the quality of life in patients with various conditions of the shoulder, 14 scales combining objective and subjective measures, 2 pain scales and 2 unclassified scales. Older instruments developed before the advent of modern measurement development methodology usually combine objective and subjective measures. Recent instruments were designed with appropriate methodology. Most are self-administered questionnaires. Numerous shoulder outcome measure instruments are available. There is no "gold standard" for assessing shoulder function outcome in the general population.

Pilates for Better Sex: Changes in Sexual Functioning in Healthy Turkish Women After Pilates Exercise.

PubMed

Halis, Fikret; Yildirim, Pelin; Kocaaslan, Ramazan; Cecen, Kursat; Gokce, Ahmet

2016-05-18

Although a large number of studies report the impact of daily exercise on many aspects of women's health, none of them address the relationship between Pilates exercise and sexual function prospectively. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of Pilates exercise on sexual function in healthy young women using a validated questionnaire. In total, 34 premenopausal healthy Turkish women aged between 20 and 50 years who had regular menstrual cycles and sexual relationships were included in the study. Women were asked to complete Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaires. Questionnaires were completed before and after 12 weeks of Pilates exercise. Primary endpoints were changes in total and individual domain scores on the FSFI and BDI. After the 12-week Pilates intervention, BDI scores were decreased and all domains of the FSFI were significantly improved with mean ± SD total FSFI scores increasing from 25.9 ± 7.4 to 32.2 ± 3.6 (p <.0001). This is the first prospective study that quantifies the improvement in sexual function of healthy women after a 12-week Pilates program. Our findings suggest that Pilates may improve sexual function in healthy women. However, further studies with a larger sample size are needed in this field.

Predictors of functional vision changes after cataract surgery: the PROVISION study.

PubMed

Chaudhary, Varun; Popovic, Marko; Holmes, Julie; Robinson, Tammy; Mak, Michael; Mohaghegh P, S Mohammad; Eino, Dalia; Mann, Keith; Kobetz, Lawrence; Gusenbauer, Kaela; Barbosa, Joshua

2016-08-01

To ascertain whether time-to-treatment, sex, age, preoperative functional vision scores, education, and ocular comorbidities predict change in functional vision pre- to postoperatively in patients receiving cataract surgery. Prospective cohort study. Three hundred and forty-three cataract patients at the Hamilton Regional Eye Institute. Participants 18 years or older scheduled to undergo cataract surgery completed the Catquest-9SF functional vision questionnaire on the day of their surgery and were mailed a survey 2-3 months postoperatively. Multivariate linear regression was used to determine the ability of predictors to explain variability in functional vision change between questionnaire administrations. One hundred and sixty-six patients completed both baseline and follow-up questionnaires. Mean age of the cohort was 73.8 ± 8.1 years. Most patients were female (59.6%), had cataract surgery performed for the first time (66.9%), and had spent a mean time of 20.3 ± 20.7 weeks waiting for surgery. Functional vision improved in 83.7% of patients. The mean baseline Catquest-9SF score was the only significant predictor of functional vision improvement (adjusted R(2) = 0.47; F1,159 = 144.6; p < 0.001). Controlling for other variables, functional vision improved by 0.74 logits when mean baseline survey score increased by 1 logit. In most patients, functional vision improved after cataract surgery. Mean baseline Catquest-9SF score was a moderate predictor of the observed improvement. Copyright © 2016 Canadian Ophthalmological Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Development of a Brief Questionnaire to Assess Contraceptive Intent

PubMed Central

Raine-Bennett, Tina R; Rocca, Corinne H

2015-01-01

Objective We sought to develop and validate an instrument that can enable providers to identify young women who may be at risk of contraceptive non-adherence. Methods Item response theory based methods were used to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Contraceptive Intent Questionnaire, a 15-item self-administered questionnaire, based on theory and prior qualitative and quantitative research. The questionnaire was administered to 200 women aged 15–24 years who were initiating contraceptives. We assessed item fit to the item response model, internal consistency, internal structure validity, and differential item functioning. Results All items fit a one-dimensional model. The separation reliability coefficient was 0.73. Participants’ overall scores covered the full range of the scale (0–15), and items appropriately matched the range of participants’ contraceptive intent. Items met the criteria for internal structure validity and most items functioned similarly between groups of women. Conclusion The Contraceptive Intent Questionnaire appears to be a reliable and valid tool. Future testing is needed to assess predictive ability and clinical utility. Practice Implications The Contraceptive Intent Questionnaire may serve as a valid tool to help providers identify women who may have problems with contraceptive adherence, as well as to pinpoint areas in which counseling may be directed. PMID:26104994

Development of a brief questionnaire to assess contraceptive intent.

PubMed

Raine-Bennett, Tina R; Rocca, Corinne H

2015-11-01

We sought to develop and validate an instrument that can enable providers to identify young women who may be at risk of contraceptive non-adherence. Item response theory based methods were used to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Contraceptive Intent Questionnaire, a 15-item self-administered questionnaire, based on theory and prior qualitative and quantitative research. The questionnaire was administered to 200 women aged 15-24 years who were initiating contraceptives. We assessed item fit to the item response model, internal consistency, internal structure validity, and differential item functioning. All items fit a one-dimensional model. The separation reliability coefficient was 0.73. Participants' overall scores covered the full range of the scale (0-15), and items appropriately matched the range of participants' contraceptive intent. Items met the criteria for internal structure validity and most items functioned similarly between groups of women. The Contraceptive Intent Questionnaire appears to be a reliable and valid tool. Future testing is needed to assess predictive ability and clinical utility. The Contraceptive Intent Questionnaire may serve as a valid tool to help providers identify women who may have problems with contraceptive adherence, as well as to pinpoint areas in which counseling may be directed. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Synkinesis assessment in facial palsy: validation of the Dutch Synkinesis Assessment Questionnaire.

PubMed

Kleiss, Ingrid J; Beurskens, Carien H G; Stalmeier, Peep F M; Ingels, Koen J A O; Marres, Henri A M

2016-06-01

The objective of this study is to validate an existing health-related quality of life questionnaire for patients with synkinesis in facial palsy for implementation in the Dutch language and culture. The Synkinesis Assessment Questionnaire was translated into the Dutch language using a forward-backward translation method. A pilot test with the translated questionnaire was performed in 10 patients with facial palsy and 10 normal subjects. Finally, cross-cultural adaption was accomplished at our outpatient clinic for facial palsy. Analyses for internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and construct validity were performed. Sixty-six patients completed the Dutch Synkinesis Assessment Questionnaire and the Dutch Facial Disability Index. Cronbach's α, representing internal consistency, was 0.80. Test-retest reliability was 0.53 (Spearman's correlation coefficient, P < 0.01). Correlations with the House-Brackmann score, Sunnybrook score, Facial Disability Index physical function, and social/well-being function were -0.29, 0.20, -0.29, and -0.32, respectively. Correlation with the Sunnybrook synkinesis subscore was 0.50 (Spearman's correlation coefficient). The Dutch Synkinesis Assessment Questionnaire shows good psychometric values and can be implemented in the management of Dutch-speaking patients with facial palsy and synkinesis in the Netherlands. Translation of the instrument into other languages may lead to widespread use, making evaluation, and comparison possible among different providers.

Development and Validation of an Instrument to Predict Functional Recovery in Tibial Fracture Patients: The Somatic Pre-Occupation and Coping (SPOC) Questionnaire

PubMed Central

Busse, Jason W.; Bhandari, Mohit; Guyatt, Gordon H.; Heels-Ansdell, Diane; Kulkarni, Abhaya V.; Mandel, Scott; Sanders, David; Schemitsch, Emil; Swiontkowski, Marc; Tornetta, Paul; Wai, Eugene; Walter, Stephen D.

2011-01-01

Objective To explore the role of patients’ beliefs in their likelihood of recovery from severe physical trauma. Methods We developed and validated an instrument designed to capture the impact of patients’ beliefs on functional recovery from injury; the Somatic Pre-occupation and Coping (SPOC) questionnaire. At 6-weeks post-surgical fixation, we administered the SPOC questionnaire to 359 consecutive patients with operatively managed tibial shaft fractures. We constructed multivariable regression models to explore the association between SPOC scores and functional outcome at 1-year, as measured by return to work and short form-36 (SF-36) physical component summary (PCS) and mental component summary (MCS) scores. Results In our adjusted multivariable regression models that included pre-injury SF-36 scores, SPOC scores at 6-weeks post-surgery accounted for 18% of the variation in SF-36 PCS scores and 18% of SF-36 MCS scores at 1-year. In both models, 6-week SPOC scores were a far more powerful predictor of functional recovery than age, gender, fracture type, smoking status, or the presence of multi-trauma. Our adjusted analysis found that for each 14 point increment in SPOC score at 6-weeks (14 chosen on the basis of half a standard deviation of the mean SPOC score) the odds of returning to work at 1-year decreased by 40% (odds ratio = 0.60; 95% CI = 0.50 to 0.73). Conclusion The SPOC questionnaire is a valid measurement of illness beliefs in tibial fracture patients and is highly predictive of their long-term functional recovery. Future research should explore if these results extend to other trauma populations and if modification of unhelpful illness beliefs is feasible and would result in improved functional outcomes. PMID:22011635

Comparison of three shortened questionnaires for assessment of quality of life in advanced cancer.

PubMed

Chiu, Leonard; Chiu, Nicholas; Chow, Edward; Cella, David; Beaumont, Jennifer L; Lam, Henry; Popovic, Marko; Bedard, Gillian; Poon, Michael; Wong, Erin; Zeng, Liang; Bottomley, Andrew

2014-08-01

Quality of life (QoL) assessment questionnaires can be burdensome to advanced cancer patients, thus necessitating the need for shorter assessment instruments than traditionally available. We compare three shortened QoL questionnaires in regards to their characteristics, validity, and reliability. A literature search was conducted to identify studies that employed or discussed three abridged QoL questionnaires: the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Core 15-Palliative Care (EORTC QLQ-C15-PAL), the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General-7 (FACT-G7), and the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Palliative Care-14 (FACIT-PAL-14). Articles that discussed questionnaire length, intended use, scoring procedure, and validation were included. The 7-item FACT-G7 is the shortest instrument, whereas the EORTC QLQ-C15-PAL and the FACIT-PAL-14 contain 14 and 15 items, respectively. All three questionnaires have similar recall period, item organization, and subscale components. Designed as core questionnaires, all three maintain content and concurrent validity of their unabridged original questionnaires. Both the EORTC QLQ-C15-PAL and the FACT-G7 demonstrate good internal consistency and reliability, with Cronbach's α ≥0.7 deemed acceptable. The developmental study for the FACIT-PAL-14 was published in 2013 and subsequent validation studies are not yet available. The EORTC QLQ-C15-PAL and the FACT-G7 were found to be reliable and appropriate for assessing health-related QoL issues-the former for palliative cancer patients and the latter for advanced cancer patients receiving chemotherapy. Conceptually, the FACIT-PAL-14 holds promise to cover social and emotional support issues that are not completely addressed by the other two questionnaires; however, further validation is needed.

The laval questionnaire: a new instrument to measure quality of life in morbid obesity.

PubMed

Therrien, Fanny; Marceau, Picard; Turgeon, Nathalie; Biron, Simon; Richard, Denis; Lacasse, Yves

2011-08-15

Our recent review of the literature uncovered eleven obesity-specific quality of life questionnaires, all with incomplete demonstration of their measurement properties. Our objective was to validate a new self-administered questionnaire specific to morbid obesity to be used in clinical trials. The study was carried out at the bariatric surgery clinic of Laval Hospital, Quebec City, Canada. This study followed our description of health-related quality of life in morbid obesity from which we constructed the Laval Questionnaire. Its construct validity and responsiveness were tested by comparing the baseline and changes at 1-year follow-up in 6 domain scores (symptoms, activity/mobility, personal hygiene/clothing, emotions, social interactions, sexual life) with those of questionnaires measuring related constructs (SF-36, Impact of Weight on Quality of Life-Lite, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale and Beck Depression Inventory-II). 112 patients (67 who got bariatric surgery, 45 who remained on the waiting list during the study period) participated in this study. The analysis of the discriminative function of the questionnaire showed moderate-to-high correlations between the scores in each domain of our instrument and the corresponding questionnaires. The analysis of its evaluative function showed (1) significant differences in score changes between patients with bariatric surgery and those without, and (2) moderate-to-high correlations between the changes in scores in the new instrument and the changes in the corresponding questionnaires. Most of these correlations met the a priori predictions we had made regarding their direction and magnitude. The Laval Questionnaire is a valid measure of health-related quality of life in patients with morbid obesity and is responsive to treatment-induced changes.

Dementia in Parkinson's disease: usefulness of the pill questionnaire.

PubMed

Martinez-Martin, Pablo

2013-11-01

The Level I algorithm for the diagnosis of dementia associated with Parkinson's disease (PD-D) recommended by the Movement Disorder Society task force includes a Pill Questionnaire to determine the impact of cognitive decline on daily activities. The objective of this study was to test the performance of the Pill Questionnaire as a screening tool for the detection of dementia (all-cause) in patients with PD and to test the performance of another functional scale substituting the Pill Questionnaire for the diagnosis of "probable PD-D" (pPD-D). Data were collected from 529 patients who had PD in Hoehn and Yahr stages 1 through 5. The measures used include the Scales for Outcomes in PD-Motor (SCOPA-Motor), scales for psychiatric complications, the Mini Mental State Examination, the Clinical Impression of Severity Index, and the Pill Questionnaire. The SCOPA-Motor functional subscale score was categorized as "impact" or "no impact" of PD on daily activities. According to clinical judgment, 13.3% of patients had dementia. For detecting dementia, the Pill Questionnaire had 89% accuracy, although its positive predictive value was 55%. Performance was worse with the categorized SCOPA-Motor subscale. According to the Movement Disorder Society task force criterion, 85 patients (16.1%) had pPD-D. When the Pill Questionnaire was substituted by the categorized SCOPA-Motor subscale, the modified algorithm showed sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy indexes over 90% but had positive predictive value of 66% for pPD-D diagnosis. Although the Pill Questionnaire demonstrated acceptable basic properties as a screening tool for dementia, its positive predictive value was low. The SCOPA-Motor subscale cannot be proposed as a substitute for the Pill Questionnaire. © 2013 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.

Assessing physical function in adult acquired major upper-limb amputees by combining the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) Outcome Questionnaire and clinical examination.

PubMed

Ostlie, Kristin; Franklin, Rosemary J; Skjeldal, Ola H; Skrondal, Anders; Magnus, Per

2011-10-01

To describe physical function in adult acquired major upper-limb amputees (ULAs) by combining self-assessed arm function and physical measures obtained by clinical examinations; to estimate associations between background factors and self-assessed arm function in ULAs; and to assess whether clinical examination findings may be used to detect reduced arm function in unilateral ULAs. postal questionnaires and clinical examinations. Norwegian ULA population. Clinical examinations performed at 3 clinics. Questionnaires: population-based sample (n=224; 57.4% response rate). Clinical examinations: combined referred sample and convenience sample of questionnaire responders (n=70; 83.3% of those invited). SURVEY inclusion criteria: adult acquired major upper-limb amputation, resident in Norway, mastering of spoken and written Norwegian. Not applicable. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) Outcome Questionnaire, and clinical examination of joint motion and muscle strength with and without prostheses. Mean DASH score was 22.7 (95% confidence interval [CI], 20.3-25.0); in bilateral amputees, 35.7 (95% CI, 23.0-48.4); and in unilateral amputees, 22.1 (95% CI, 19.8-24.5). A lower unilateral DASH score (better function) was associated with paid employment (vs not in paid employment: adjusted regression coefficient [aB]=-5.40, P=.033; vs students: aB=-13.88, P=.022), increasing postamputation time (aB=-.27, P=.001), and Norwegian ethnicity (aB=-14.45, P<.001). At clinical examination, we found a high frequency of impaired neck mobility and varying frequencies of impaired joint motion and strength at the shoulder, elbow, and forearm level. Prosthesis wear was associated with impaired joint motion in all upper-limb joints (P<.006) and with reduced shoulder abduction strength (P=.002). Impaired without-prosthesis joint motion in shoulder flexion (ipsilateral: aB=12.19, P=.001) and shoulder abduction (ipsilateral: aB=12.01, P=.005; contralateral: aB=28.82, P=.004) was associated with increased DASH scores. Upper-limb loss clearly affects physical function. DASH score limitation profiles may be useful in individual clinical assessments. Targeted clinical examination may indicate patients with extra rehabilitational needs. Such examinations may be of special importance in relation to prosthesis function. Copyright © 2011 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Borderline or Schizotypal? Differential Psychodynamic Assessment in Severe Personality Disorders.

PubMed

VAN Riel, Laura; Ingenhoven, Theo J M; VAN Dam, Quin D; Polak, Marike G; Vollema, Meinte G; Willems, Anne E; Berghuis, Han; VAN Megen, Harold

2017-03-01

Considerable overlap in symptoms between patients with borderline personality disorder (BPD) and schizotypal personality disorder (STPD) complicates personality diagnostics. Yet very little is known about the level of psychodynamic functioning of both personality disorders. Psychodynamic assessment procedures may specify personality characteristics relevant for differential diagnosis and treatment planning. In this cross-sectional study we explored the differences and similarities in level of personality functioning and psychodynamic features of patients with severe BPD or STPD. In total, 25 patients with BPD and 13 patients with STPD were compared regarding their level of personality functioning (General Assessment of Personality Disorder), current quasipsychotic features (Schizotypal Personality Questionnaire), and psychodynamic functioning [Developmental Profile (DP) interview and Developmental Profile Inventory (DPI) questionnaire]. Both groups of patients showed equally severe impairments in the level of personality functioning and the presence of current quasipsychotic features. As assessed by the DP interview, significant differential psychodynamic patterns were found on the primitive levels of functioning. Moreover, subjects with BPD had significantly higher scores on the adaptive developmental levels. However, the self-questionnaire DPI was not able to elucidate all of these differences. In conclusion, our study found significant differences in psychodynamic functioning between patients with BPD and STPD as assessed with the DP interview. In complicated diagnostic cases, personality assessment by psychodynamic interviewing can enhance subtle but essential differentiation between BPD and STPD.

Development and Validation of an Abbreviated Questionnaire to Easily Measure Cognitive Failure in ICU Survivors: A Multicenter Study.

PubMed

Wassenaar, Annelies; de Reus, Jorn; Donders, A Rogier T; Schoonhoven, Lisette; Cremer, Olaf L; de Lange, Dylan W; van Dijk, Diederik; Slooter, Arjen J C; Pickkers, Peter; van den Boogaard, Mark

2018-01-01

To develop and validate an abbreviated version of the Cognitive Failure Questionnaire that can be used by patients as part of self-assessment to measure functional cognitive outcome in ICU survivors. A retrospective multicenter observational study. The ICUs of two Dutch university hospitals. Adult ICU survivors. None. Cognitive functioning was evaluated between 12 and 24 months after ICU discharge using the full 25-item Cognitive Failure Questionnaire (CFQ-25). Incomplete CFQ-25 questionnaires were excluded from analysis. Forward selection in a linear regression model was used in hospital A to assess which of the CFQ-25 items should be included to prevent a significant loss of correlation between an abbreviated and the full CFQ-25. Subsequently, the performance of an abbreviated Cognitive Failure Questionnaire was determined in hospital B using Pearson's correlation. A Bland-Altman plot was used to examine whether the reduced-item outcome scores of an abbreviated Cognitive Failure Questionnaire were a replacement for the full CFQ-25 outcome scores. Among 1,934 ICU survivors, 1,737 were included, 819 in hospital A, 918 in hospital B. The Pearson's correlation between the abbreviated 14-item Cognitive Failure Questionnaire (CFQ-14) and the CFQ-25 was 0.99. The mean of the difference scores was -0.26, and 95% of the difference scores fell within +5 and -5.5 on a 100-point maximum score. It is feasible to use the abbreviated CFQ-14 to measure self-reported cognitive failure in ICU survivors as this questionnaire has a similar performance as the full CFQ-25.

Patient and Family Member Factors Influencing Outcomes of Poststroke Inpatient Rehabilitation.

PubMed

Fang, Yunhua; Tao, Qian; Zhou, Xiaoxuan; Chen, Shanjia; Huang, Jia; Jiang, Yingping; Wu, Yi; Chen, Lidian; Tao, Jing; Chan, Chetwyn C

2017-02-01

To investigate how family members' attitudes toward functional regain, and patients' knowledge and intention of independence influence poststroke rehabilitation. Cross-sectional study. Three rehabilitation inpatient settings. Younger (n=79) and older (n=84) poststroke patients, along with their family members (spouses, n=104; children, n=59). Not applicable. Custom-designed questionnaires were used to tap into the patients' knowledge about rehabilitation (Patient's Rehabilitation Questionnaire-Knowledge About Rehabilitation) and intention of independence (Patient's Rehabilitation Questionnaire-Intention of Independence), and family members' attitudes toward patients in performing basic activities of daily living (BADL) (Family Member Attitudes Questionnaire-BADL) and instrumental activities of daily living (Family Member Attitudes Questionnaire-instrumental activities of daily living). The rehabilitation outcomes included gains in motor, cognitive, and emotional functions, and self-care independence, measured with common clinical instruments. The Family Member Attitudes Questionnaire-BADL predicted cognitive outcome and the Patient's Rehabilitation Questionnaire-Intention of Independence predicted motor outcome for both groups. Differential age-related effects were revealed for the Patient's Rehabilitation Questionnaire-Intention of Independence in predicting emotional outcome only for the younger group, and self-care independence only for the older group. Patients' intention of independence positively affected motor recovery, while family members' positive attitudes promoted cognitive regain. The findings suggested plausible age-related differences in how patients' intentions affect emotion versus self-care independence outcomes. Future studies should explore strategies for promoting positive attitudes toward independence among patients and family members during poststroke rehabilitation. Copyright © 2016 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Quantitative Molecular Phenotyping of Gill Remodeling in a Cichlid Fish Responding to Salinity Stress*

PubMed Central

Kültz, Dietmar; Li, Johnathon; Gardell, Alison; Sacchi, Romina

2013-01-01

A two-tiered label-free quantitative (LFQ) proteomics workflow was used to elucidate how salinity affects the molecular phenotype, i.e. proteome, of gills from a cichlid fish, the euryhaline tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus). The workflow consists of initial global profiling of relative tryptic peptide abundances in treated versus control samples followed by targeted identification (by MS/MS) and quantitation (by chromatographic peak area integration) of validated peptides for each protein of interest. Fresh water acclimated tilapia were independently exposed in separate experiments to acute short-term (34 ppt) and gradual long-term (70 ppt, 90 ppt) salinity stress followed by molecular phenotyping of the gill proteome. The severity of salinity stress can be deduced with high technical reproducibility from the initial global label-free quantitative profiling step alone at both peptide and protein levels. However, an accurate regulation ratio can only be determined by targeted label-free quantitative profiling because not all peptides used for protein identification are also valid for quantitation. Of the three salinity challenges, gradual acclimation to 90 ppt has the most pronounced effect on gill molecular phenotype. Known salinity effects on tilapia gills, including an increase in the size and number of mitochondria-rich ionocytes, activities of specific ion transporters, and induction of specific molecular chaperones are reflected in the regulation of abundances of the corresponding proteins. Moreover, specific protein isoforms that are responsive to environmental salinity change are resolved and it is revealed that salinity effects on the mitochondrial proteome are nonuniform. Furthermore, protein NDRG1 has been identified as a novel key component of molecular phenotype restructuring during salinity-induced gill remodeling. In conclusion, besides confirming known effects of salinity on gills of euryhaline fish, molecular phenotyping reveals novel insight into proteome changes that underlie the remodeling of tilapia gill epithelium in response to environmental salinity change. PMID:24065692

Evaluating the Quality of Life of Glaucoma Patients Using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory.

PubMed

Otori, Yasumasa; Takahashi, Genichiro; Urashima, Mitsuyoshi; Kuwayama, Yasuaki

2017-11-01

To evaluate anxiety felt by glaucoma patients. In total, 472 glaucoma patients responded to a questionnaire on anxiety, subjective symptoms, and vision-related quality of life (VR-QOL) associated with glaucoma. Anxiety was evaluated using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), state anxiety (STAI-State) subscale along with our novel questionnaire, assessing visual function and subjective symptoms, specialized for glaucoma. VR-QOL was evaluated using 5 subitems from the 25-item National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire (VFQ-25). Adherence to ophthalmic antiglaucoma agents was confirmed. As indexes of visual function, corrected visual acuity (measured by eye chart), mean deviation (MD) score (measured with static perimetry), and 4 thresholds at the center of vision were determined. Stages were classified according to the Aulhorn Classification. From the STAI-State scores, the prevalence of anxiety in glaucoma patients was evaluated. We analyzed the correlation between the STAI-State and VFQ-25, anxiety, subjective symptoms, adherence, and visual function indexes. In total, 78% of glaucoma patients experienced at least an intermediate level of anxiety. The STAI-State correlated significantly with anxiety and subjective symptoms as measured by our novel questionnaire, particularly for questions "current anxiety about loss of vision" and "current anxiety in life" (r=0.468 and 0.500; both P<0.0001). However, STAI-State correlated weakly with VFQ-25, and not at all with visual function indexes and adherence. Many glaucoma patients feel anxiety. The STAI-State is correlated with the VR-QOL and anxiety in glaucoma patients, making it useful for understanding the anxiety present in glaucoma patients.

The work role functioning questionnaire 2.0 (Dutch version): examination of its reliability, validity and responsiveness in the general working population.

PubMed

Abma, Femke I; van der Klink, Jac J L; Bültmann, Ute

2013-03-01

The promotion of a sustainable, healthy and productive working life attracts more and more attention. Recently the Work Role Functioning Questionnaire (WRFQ) has been cross-culturally translated and adapted to Dutch. This questionnaire aims to measure the health-related work functioning of workers with health problems. The aim of this study is to evaluate the reliability, validity (including five new items) and responsiveness of the WRFQ 2.0 in the working population. A longitudinal study was conducted among workers. The reliability (internal consistency, test-retest reliability, measurement error), validity (structural validity-factor analysis, construct validity by means of hypotheses testing) and responsiveness of the WRFQ 2.0 were evaluated. A total of N = 553 workers completed the survey. The final WRFQ 2.0 has four subscales and showed very good internal consistency, moderate test-retest reliability, good construct validity and moderate responsiveness in the working population. The WRFQ was able to distinguish between groups with different levels of mental health, physical health, fatigue and need for recovery. A moderate correlation was found between WRFQ and related constructs respectively work ability and work productivity. A weak relationship was found with general self-rated health, work engagement and work involvement. The WRFQ 2.0 is a reliable and valid instrument to measure health-related work functioning in the working population. Further validation in larger samples is recommended, especially for test-retest reliability, responsiveness and the questionnaire's ability to predict the future course of health-related work functioning.

Validity and reliability of CHOICE Health Experience Questionnaire: Thai version.

PubMed

Aiyasanon, Nipa; Premasathian, Nalinee; Nimmannit, Akarin; Jetanavanich, Pantip; Sritippayawan, Suchai

2009-09-01

Assess the reliability and validity of the Thai translation of the CHOICE Health Experience Questionnaire (CHEQ), which is the English-language questionnaire, developed specifically for End-stage-renal disease (ESRD) patients. The CHEQ comprised of two parts, nine general domains of SF-36 (physical function, role-physical, bodily pain, mental health, role-emotional, social function, vitality, general health, and report transition) and 16 dialysis specific domains of the CHEQ (role-physical, mental health, general health, freedom, travel restriction, cognitive function, financial function, restriction diet and fluids, recreation, work, body image, symptoms, sex, sleep, access, and quality of life). The authors translated the CHEQ questionnaire into Thai and confirmed the accuracy by back translation. Pilot study sample was 10 Thai ESRD patients. Then the CHEQ (Thai) was applied to 110 Thai ESRD patients. Twenty-three patients had chronic peritoneal dialysis patients and 87 were chronic intermittent hemodialysis patients. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, Mann-Whitney U test, Student's t-test, and Cronbach's alpha. Construct validity was satisfactory with the significant difference less than 0.001 between the low and high group. The reliability coefficient for the Cronbach's alpha of the total scale of the CHEQ (Thai) was 0.98. The Cronbach 's alphas were greater than 0.7 for all domains, range from 0.58 to 0.92, except the social function and quality of life domain (alpha = 0.66 and 0.575). The CHEQ (Thai) is reliable and valid for assessment of Thai ESRD patients receiving chronic dialysis. Its properties are similar to those reported in the original version.

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

Development and standardization of the "Let's Shop" questionnaire: an assessment of shopping habits and executive functions in people with obesity.

PubMed

Akerman Frid, Sarit; Josman, Naomi; Endevelt, Ronit

2017-05-01

Overweight and obesity are epidemic in Western countries and the literature suggests a relationship between overweight and executive functions (EF). Shopping is a regular, everyday activity that is strongly related to executive functioning. To date, no assessment tool has been developed to evaluate EF in adults with overweight and obesity, with a focus on the activity of shopping. To determine the factorial validity of the newly developed "Let's Shop" questionnaire. A convenience sample which included three groups of 93 men and women aged 35-60 were included in the study. Thirty three overweight participants and 30 obese participants who sought a clinical dietitian constituted the two research groups, and 30 normal weight participants recruited from a physician's waiting room constituted the control group and were matched to the two research groups by age, gender, education, and socioeconomic status. The "Let's Shop" questionnaire was administered to all participants. An exploratory principal factor extraction with oblimin rotation was conducted for the "Let's Shop" questionnaire. Twenty-one items were entered into the equation; the analysis revealed four distinct factors comprised of 17 items. The cumulative percentage of variance accounted for by the four factors was 44.74%. The four factors were as follows: "planning in action" α = 0.63; " planning ahead" α = 0.71; " impulsivity" α = 0.67; and "habits" α = 0.63. The "Let's Shop" questionnaire was reduced to 17 items. This brief questionnaire will enable rapid administration by researchers and practitioners and determine a potential association between EF in the supermarket arena and weight status.

Understanding the quality of life (QOL) issues in survivors of cancer: towards the development of an EORTC QOL cancer survivorship questionnaire.

PubMed

van Leeuwen, Marieke; Husson, Olga; Alberti, Paola; Arraras, Juan Ignacio; Chinot, Olivier L; Costantini, Anna; Darlington, Anne-Sophie; Dirven, Linda; Eichler, Martin; Hammerlid, Eva B; Holzner, Bernhard; Johnson, Colin D; Kontogianni, Meropi; Kjær, Trille Kristina; Morag, Ofir; Nolte, Sandra; Nordin, Andrew; Pace, Andrea; Pinto, Monica; Polz, Katja; Ramage, John; Reijneveld, Jaap C; Serpentini, Samantha; Tomaszewski, Krzysztof A; Vassiliou, Vassilios; Verdonck-de Leeuw, Irma M; Vistad, Ingvild; Young, Teresa E; Aaronson, Neil K; van de Poll-Franse, Lonneke V

2018-06-04

The number of cancer survivors is growing steadily and increasingly, clinical trials are being designed to include long-term follow-up to assess not only survival, but also late effects and health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Therefore it is is essential to develop patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) that capture the full range of issues relevant to disease-free cancer survivors. The objectives of this project are: 1) to develop a European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) questionnaire that captures the full range of physical, mental and social HRQOL issues relevant to disease-free cancer survivors; and 2) to determine at which minimal time since completion of treatment the questionnaire should be used. We reviewed 134 publications on cancer survivorship and interviewed 117 disease-free cancer survivors with 11 different types of cancer across 14 countries in Europe to generate an exhaustive, provisional list of HRQOL issues relevant to cancer survivors. The resulting issue list, the EORTC core questionnaire (QLQ-C30), and site-specific questionnaire modules were completed by a second group of 458 survivors. We identified 116 generic survivorship issues. These issues covered body image, cognitive functioning, health behaviors, negative and positive outlook, health distress, mental health, fatigue, sleep problems, physical functioning, pain, several physical symptoms, social functioning, and sexual problems. Patients rated most of the acute symptoms of cancer and its treatment (e.g. nausea) as no longer relevant approximately one year after completion of treatment. Compared to existing cancer survivorship questionnaires, our findings underscore the relevance of assessing issues related to chronic physical side effects of treatment such as neuropathy and joint pain. We will further develop a core survivorship questionnaire and three site-specific modules for disease-free adult cancer survivors who are at least one year post-treatment.

Quality of life and swallowing questionnaire for individuals with Parkinson's disease: development and validation.

PubMed

Diniz, Juliana Garcia; da Silva, Alfredo Carlos; Nóbrega, Ana Caline

2018-05-21

Individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD) may exhibit some degree of change in swallowing dynamics during the course of the disease. These changes can affect their physical, functional and emotional quality of life. To develop a quality of life and swallowing questionnaire for individuals with PD. The first version of the questionnaire comprised 29 items taken from the accounts of 50 patients treated over a 2-month period at Sarah Hospital in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. A committee of 10 experts in the field analyzed the content and reduced the questionnaire to 28 questions. The questionnaire was then administered to 140 PD patients and 47 healthy individuals. A factor analysis of the items guided the drafting of the final questionnaire, which consisted of 19 items grouped into four factors, encompassing physical, functional and emotional aspects. A test-retest assessment was conducted with 44 individuals with PD. The internal consistency, estimated by the mean of Cronbach's alpha coefficient, varied between 0.71 (domain 3) and 0.94 (domain 1) in the test and between 0.69 (domain 3) and 0.95 (domain 1) in the retest. The correlation coefficient in the test/retest comparison was high and significant, demonstrating that the measurement was stable. A significant difference was observed between the PD group and the comparison group. The questionnaire developed is a valid, statistically appropriate and clinically effective self-administered instrument for individuals with PD. © 2018 Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists.

Challenging Stereotypes: Sexual Functioning of Single Adults with High Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Byers, E. Sandra; Nichols, Shana; Voyer, Susan D.

2013-01-01

This study examined the sexual functioning of single adults (61 men, 68 women) with high functioning autism and Asperger syndrome living in the community with and without prior relationship experience. Participants completed an on-line questionnaire assessing autism symptoms, psychological functioning, and various aspects of sexual functioning. In…

School function in students with Down syndrome.

PubMed

Daunhauer, Lisa A; Fidler, Deborah J; Will, Elizabeth

2014-01-01

People with Down syndrome (DS) are predisposed to specific areas of relative developmental strength and challenge, but it is unclear whether and how this profile affects participation in school and community settings. In this study we characterized the nature of school participation and performance of functional tasks in the school context for 26 elementary students with DS (mean age = 7.86 yr; standard deviation = 1.75). Students participated in assessments of cognitive status and language development. Their teachers completed the School Function Assessment (Coster, Deeney, Haltiwanger, & Haley, 1998) questionnaire and a standardized questionnaire on executive functioning (EF). Students demonstrated a pronounced pattern of assistance- and adaptation-related needs across various domains of school function. The strongest predictor of school function was EF skills, as reported by teachers (adjusted R² = .47, p = .003). Findings from this study should inform future intervention and school-related planning for elementary school students with DS. Copyright © 2014 by the American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc.

Impact of an implantable steroid contraceptive (etonogestrel-releasing implant) on quality of life and sexual function: a preliminary study.

PubMed

Di Carlo, Costantino; Sansone, Anna; De Rosa, Nicoletta; Gargano, Virginia; Tommaselli, Giovanni Antonio; Nappi, Carmine; Bifulco, Giuseppe

2014-01-01

The aim of the study was to determine the impact of etonogestrel (ENG)-implant used for contraceptive purpose on Quality of life (QoL) and on sexual function (FSF) of healthy Italian women. The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaire and the Short Form-36 (SF-36) validated questionnaire were administered at baseline, 3 and 6 months after insertion of Nexplanon. The implant seems to have a positive impact on QoL after the first three months of therapy. Users showed an improved general health status and physical role status. The implant did not show negative effects on libido and on sexual function. In the first three months of treatment, users experienced a temporary reduction of vitality, mental health, social functioning and emotional role functioning, which seem to disappear after six months of therapy.

Quality of life and voice assessment in patients with early-stage glottic cancer.

PubMed

Arias, Fernando; Arraras, Juan Ignacio; Asin, Gemma; Uzcanga, María Itziar; Maraví, Enrique; Chicata, Volker; Eito, Clara; Zarandona, Uxue; Mora, Itxaso; Vila, Meritxell; Domínguez, Miguel Angel

2015-03-01

The purpose of this study was to assess the quality of life (QOL) and voice handicap in a sample of disease-free patients who had been treated at our center with radiotherapy (RT) or surgery for early glottic cancer. QOL and voice handicap were assessed using the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) questionnaires Quality of Life Questionnaire-Core 30-questions (QLQ-C30) and Quality of Life Questionnaire-Head and Neck 35-questions (QLQ-H&N35) and the Voice Handicap Index (VHI). Ninety-one patients completed the questionnaires. Fifty-nine patients (65%) were treated with RT and 32 (35%) with surgery. QOL scores for the sample recorded, moderate limitations in 6 areas, and more than moderate limitations (>30 of 100) in 2 areas. Significant differences were found in emotional functioning (88.5 vs 76.6) and social contact (4.6 vs 12.1) on the EORTC questionnaires and on the VHI (6.1 vs 12.8), which favored the RT group. In this cross-sectional study, voice quality, emotional functioning, and social contact were better in the RT group. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

A practical guide to scoring a Multi-Dimensional Health Assessment Questionnaire (MDHAQ) and Routine Assessment of Patient Index Data (RAPID) scores in 10-20 seconds for use in standard clinical care, without rulers, calculators, websites or computers.

PubMed

Pincus, Theodore; Yazici, Yusuf; Bergman, Martin

2007-08-01

The American College of Rheumatology Core Data Set for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) includes 3 measures which are found on a patient self-report questionnaire, physical function, pain, and patient estimate of global status. These measures are included in all clinical trials, but not assessed at most encounters in standard rheumatology care. Rheumatologists may have experience with lengthy research questionnaires in clinical trials and other clinical research, which (appropriately) are regarded as relatively cumbersome research tools and do not contribute to clinical care. A format of a questionnaire known as the multidimensional health assessment questionnaire (MDHAQ) has been developed for standard rheumatology care to contribute to rheumatology clinical care in daily practice. The 3 scores for physical function, pain, and global status can be "eyeballed" in a second or two and formally scored into a composite index known as rheumatology assessment patient index data (RAPID) in about 10 seconds. This chapter provides a brief tutorial designed to instruct rheumatologists and their staffs regarding how to use and score the MDHAQ and RAPID in standard clinical care.

Learning about the Functions of the Olfactory System from People without a Sense of Smell

PubMed Central

Croy, Ilona; Negoias, Simona; Novakova, Lenka; Landis, Basile N.; Hummel, Thomas

2012-01-01

The olfactory system provides numerous functions to humans, influencing ingestive behavior, awareness of environmental hazards and social communication. Approximately ⅕ of the general population exhibit an impaired sense of smell. However, in contrast to the many affected, only few patients complain of their impairment. So how important is it for humans to have an intact sense of smell? Or is it even dispensable, at least in the Western world? To investigate this, we compared 32 patients, who were born without a sense of smell (isolated congenital anosmia - ICA) with 36 age-matched controls. A broad questionnaire was used, containing domains relevant to olfaction in daily life, along with a questionnaire about social relationships and the BDI-questionnaire. ICA-patients differed only slightly from controls in functions of daily life related to olfaction. These differences included enhanced social insecurity, increased risk for depressive symptoms and increased risk for household accidents. In these domains the sense of olfaction seems to play a key role. PMID:22457756

Female Sexual Function Following Surgical Treatment of Stress Urinary Incontinence: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

PubMed

Bicudo-Fürst, Maria Cláudia; Borba Leite, Pedro Henrique; Araújo Glina, Felipe Placco; Baccaglini, Willy; de Carvalho Fürst, Rafael Vilhena; Bezerra, Carlos Alberto; Glina, Sidney

2018-04-01

The impact of surgery for stress urinary incontinence (SUI) on female sexual function has received attention in the medical literature, but not in a structured manner. To assess the most recent evidence on the impact of surgical management for female SUI on female sexual function. The review and meta-analysis of available articles published in Medline, Cochrane, LILACS, SCOPUS, Web of Science, CINHAL, and EMBASE included prospective randomized and non-randomized studies that assessed patients who underwent surgical treatment for UI through 2 validated questionnaires: the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire (PISQ-12) and the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). The following terms were searched: (urinary incontinence OR female OR woman OR women) AND (suburethral slings OR transobturator tape* OR transobturator suburethral tape OR trans-obturator tape* OR urethral sling* OR midurethral sling* OR mid-urethral sling* OR "standard midurethral slings" OR tensionless vaginal tape* OR mini sling* OR Burch* OR "Burch colposuspension" OR "urologic surgical procedures" OR "tension-free vaginal tape" OR pubovaginal sling) AND (sexual behavior OR "Female Sexual Function Index" OR FSFI OR sexual function OR "Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire" OR PISQ-12). 1,043 articles were retrieved; 9 studies were included for qualitative analysis and 4 were included for meta-analysis. 25 articles were excluded because they used questionnaires other than the FSFI and PISQ-12. Meta-analysis of 2 studies composed of 411 women who underwent to retropubic and transobturator sling intervention and completed the PISQ-12 questionnaire showed an increase in sexual function of 2.40 points after transobturator compared with retropubic sling intervention (95% CI = -2.48 to -2.32; I 2  = 35%, P < .00001). However, 2 other studies composed of 183 women comparing the same techniques, but using the FSFI, did not show a statistically significant difference (95% CI = -1.77 to 3.78; I 2  = 0%, P = .48). The impact of UI surgery on sexual function is uncertain because of the imprecision of the effect and inconsistency among studies. Only limited evidence on the impact of the transobturator vs the retropubic sling was found. Bicudo-Fürst MC, Borba Leite PH, Araújo Glina FP, et al. Female Sexual Function Following Surgical Treatment of Stress Urinary Incontinence: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Sex Med Rev 2018;6:224-233. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Comparison of physical activity questionnaires for the elderly with the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF)--an analysis of content.

PubMed

Eckert, Katharina G; Lange, Martin A

2015-03-14

Physical activity questionnaires (PAQ) have been extensively used to determine physical activity (PA) levels. Most PAQ are derived from an energy expenditure-based perspective and assess activities with a certain intensity level. Activities with a moderate or vigorous intensity level are predominantly used to determine a person's PA level in terms of quantity. Studies show that the time spent engaging in moderate and vigorous intensity PA does not appropriately reflect the actual PA behavior of older people because they perform more functional, everyday activities. Those functional activities are more likely to be considered low-intense and represent an important qualitative health-promoting activity. For the elderly, functional, light intensity activities are of special interest but are assessed differently in terms of quantity and quality. The aim was to analyze the content of PAQ for the elderly. N = 18 sufficiently validated PAQ applicable to adults (60+) were included. Each item (N = 414) was linked to the corresponding code of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) using established linking rules. Kappa statistics were calculated to determine rater agreement. Items were linked to 598 ICF codes and 62 different ICF categories. A total of 43.72% of the codes were for sports-related activities and 14.25% for walking-related activities. Only 9.18% of all codes were related to household tasks. Light intensity, functional activities are emphasized differently and are underrepresented in most cases. Additionally, sedentary activities are underrepresented (5.55%). κ coefficients were acceptable for n = 16 questionnaires (0.48-1.00). There is a large inconsistency in the understandings of PA in elderly. Further research should focus (1) on a conceptual understanding of PA in terms of the behavior of the elderly and (2) on developing questionnaires that inquire functional, light intensity PA, as well as sedentary activities more explicitly.

Identification of Scoliosis Research Society-22r Health-Related Quality of Life questionnaire domains using factor analysis methodology.

PubMed

Lai, Sue-Min; Asher, Marc A; Burton, Douglas C; Carlson, Brandon B

2010-05-20

Cross-sectional mail questionnaire. Examination of the underlying construct validity of the Scoliosis Research Society-22r (SRS-22r) Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) Questionnaire using factor analysis. The original SRS-24 HRQoL questionnaire has undergone a series of modifications in an effort to further improve its psychometric properties and validate its use in patients from 10 years of age until well into adulthood. The SRS-22r questionnaire is the result of this effort. To date, the underlying construct validity of the original English version has not been analyzed by factor analysis. A questionnaire including all questions on the SRS-24, -23, -22, and -22r questionnaires (49 total questions) was mailed to a consecutive series of 235 patients who had received primary posterior or anterior instrumentation and arthrodesis. Domain structure of the SRS-22r questions was analyzed using iterated principal factor analysis with orthogonal rotation. One hundred twenty-one (51%) of the patients, age 23.34 +/- 4.52 years (range, 14.16-34.57 years), returned the questionnaire at 8.63 +/- 4.00 years (range, 2.32-15.94 years) following surgery. Factor analysis using all 22 questions resulted in 3 factors with many shared items because of significant collinearity of the satisfaction/dissatisfaction with management questions with the others. After 18 iterations, factor analysis using the 20 nonmanagement questions revealed 4 factors that explained 98% of the variance. These factors parallel the assigned domains of the SRS-22r questionnaire. Three questions (2 self-image and 1 function) were identified that had high loading in 2 factors. However, internal consistency was best when 2 of the questions (1 self-image and 1 function) were retained in their assigned SRS-22r domains and the third decreased self-image internal consistency by only 0.01%. The internal consistencies (Cronbach alpha) of the assigned SRS-22r nonmanagement domains were excellent or very good: function 0.83, pain 0.87, self-image 0.80, and mental health 0.90. For the management domain it was good: 0.73. Factor analysis of the SRS-22r HRQoL confirms placement of the 20 nonmanagement domain questions in the assigned 4 domains, all with excellent or very good internal consistency.

Quantified self and comprehensive geriatric assessment: older adults are able to evaluate their own health and functional status.

PubMed

Beauchet, Olivier; Launay, Cyrille P; Merjagnan, Christine; Kabeshova, Anastasiia; Annweiler, Cédric

2014-01-01

There is an increased interest of individuals in quantifying their own health and functional status. The aim of this study was to examine the concordance of answers to a self-administered questionnaire exploring health and functional status with information collected during a full clinical examination performed by a physician among cognitively healthy adults (CHI) and older patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or mild-to-moderate Alzheimer disease (AD). Based on cross-sectional design, a total of 60 older adults (20 CHI, 20 patients with MCI, and 20 patients with mild-to-moderate AD) were recruited in the memory clinic of Angers, France. All participants completed a self-administered questionnaire in paper format composed of 33 items exploring age, gender, nutrition, place of living, social resources, drugs daily taken, memory complaint, mood and general feeling, fatigue, activities of daily living, physical activity and history of falls. Participants then underwent a full clinical examination by a physician exploring the same domains. High concordance between the self-administered questionnaire and physician's clinical examination was showed. The few divergences were related to cognitive status, answers of AD and MCI patients to the self-administered questionnaire being less reliable than those of CHI. Older adults are able to evaluate their own health and functional status, regardless of their cognitive status. This result needs to be confirmed and opens new perspectives for the quantified self-trend and could be helpful in daily clinical practice of primary care.

A study of satisfaction of medical students on their mentoring programs at one medical school in Korea

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

Purpose The purpose of this study was to investigate the awareness levels of medical students regarding the characteristics of each function within a mentoring program conducted within Kyung Hee University and to ultimately suggest points for reformation. Medical students’ awareness levels were determined using a 29-item questionnaire. Methods The questionnaire was conducted on 347 medical students, excluding 25 students who either marked multiple answers or did not reply. The assessment of the program was based on a questionnaire with the use of a 5-point Likert scale using SPSS version 22.0. Multiple regression was conducted to examine the relationship between the satisfaction level, regarding functions of mentoring programs, and characteristics of mentoring programs. Interviews were conducted to supplement additional information that was hard to gain from the questionnaire. Results The results on demographic and functional characteristics revealed that there was no statistically significant differences in satisfaction levels across gender, whereas there were significant differences across grade levels. In addition, there were significant differences in the frequency of meetings and topics of conversation while the length of meetings and meeting place were not significantly different. Conclusion For the improved mentoring programs for medical students, the program should focus on the frequency of meetings and the topics of conversation. Furthermore, mentoring programs of high quality can be expected if professors take interview results into consideration. Also, students want to be provided with psychosocial advice from mentors in various ways such as role model function. PMID:29207456

Work Outcomes in Patients Who Stay at Work Despite Musculoskeletal Pain.

PubMed

Cochrane, Andy; Higgins, Niamh M; Rothwell, Conor; Ashton, Jennifer; Breen, Roisin; Corcoran, Oriel; FitzGerald, Oliver; Gallagher, Pamela; Desmond, Deirdre

2017-12-13

Purpose To assess self-reported work impacts and associations between psychosocial risk factors and work impairment amongst workers seeking care for musculoskeletal pain while continuing to work. Methods Patients were recruited from Musculoskeletal Assessment Clinics at 5 hospitals across Ireland. Participants completed questionnaires including assessments of work impairment (Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire), work ability (single item from the Work Ability Index) and work performance (Work Role Functioning Questionnaire; WRFQ). Logistic and hierarchical regressions were conducted to analyse the relation between psychosocial variables and work outcomes. Results 155 participants (53.5% female; mean age = 46.50 years) who were working at the time of assessment completed the questionnaires. Absenteeism was low, yet 62.6% were classified as functioning poorly according to the WRFQ; 52.3% reported having poor work ability. Logistic regression analyses indicated that higher work role functioning was associated with higher pain self-efficacy (OR 1.51); better work ability was associated with older age (OR 1.063) and lower functional restriction (OR 0.93); greater absenteeism was associated with lower pain self-efficacy (OR 0.65) and poorer work expectancy (OR 1.18). Multiple regression analysis indicated that greater presenteeism was associated with higher pain intensity (β = 0.259) and lower pain self-efficacy (β = - 0.385). Conclusions While individuals continue to work with musculoskeletal pain, their work performance can be adversely affected. Interventions that target mutable factors, such as pain self-efficacy, may help reduce the likelihood of work impairment.

Long-term clinical evaluation of the automatic stance-phase lock-controlled prosthetic knee joint in young adults with unilateral above-knee amputation.

PubMed

Andrysek, Jan; Wright, F Virginia; Rotter, Karin; Garcia, Daniela; Valdebenito, Rebeca; Mitchell, Carlos Alvarez; Rozbaczylo, Claudio; Cubillos, Rafael

2017-05-01

The purpose of this study was to clinically evaluate the automatic stance-phase lock (ASPL) knee mechanism against participants' existing weight-activated braking (WAB) prosthetic knee joint. This prospective crossover study involved 10 young adults with an above-knee amputation. Primary measurements consisted of tests of walking speeds and capacity. Heart rate was measured during the six-minute walk test and the Physiological Cost Index (PCI) which was calculated from heart rate estimated energy expenditure. Activity was measured with a pedometer. User function and quality of life were assessed using the Lower Limb Function Questionnaire (LLFQ) and Prosthetic Evaluation Questionnaire (PEQ). Long-term follow-up over 12 months were completed. Walking speeds were the same for WAB and APSL knees. Energy expenditure (PCI) was lower for the ASPL knees (p = 0.007). Step counts were the same for both knees, and questionnaires indicated ASPL knee preference attributed primarily to knee stability and improved walking, while limitations included terminal impact noise. Nine of 10 participants chose to keep using the ASPL knee as part of the long-term follow-up. Potential benefits of the ASPL knee were identified in this study by functional measures, questionnaires and user feedback, but not changes in activity or the PEQ.

How to measure the impact of premenstrual symptoms? Development and validation of the German PMS-Impact Questionnaire.

PubMed

Kues, Johanna N; Janda, Carolyn; Kleinstäuber, Maria; Weise, Cornelia

2016-10-01

With 75% of women of reproductive age affected, premenstrual symptoms are very common, ranging from emotional and cognitive to physical symptoms. Premenstrual Syndrome and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder can lead to substantial functional interference and psychological distress comparable to that of dysthymic disorders. The assessment of this impact is required as a part of the diagnostic procedure in the DSM-5. In the absence of a specific measure, the authors developed the PMS-Impact Questionnaire. A sample of 101 women reporting severe premenstrual complaints was assessed with the twenty-two items in the questionnaire during their premenstrual phase in an ongoing intervention study at the Philipps-University Marburg from August 2013 until January 2015. An exploratory factor analysis revealed a two-factor solution (labeled Psychological Impact and Functional Impact) with 18 items. A Cronbach's alpha of 0.90 for Psychological Impact and of 0.90 for Functional Impact indicated good reliability. Convergent construct validity was demonstrated by moderate to high correlations with the Pain Disability Index. Low correlations with the Big Five Inventory-10 indicated good divergent validity. The PMS-Impact Questionnaire was found to be a valid, reliable, and an economic measure to assess the impact of premenstrual symptoms. In future research, cross validations and confirmatory factor analyses should be conducted.

Physical activity and physical function changes in obese individuals after gastric bypass surgery.

PubMed

Josbeno, Deborah A; Jakicic, John M; Hergenroeder, Andrea; Eid, George M

2010-01-01

Little is known about the effects of gastric bypass surgery (GBS) on physical activity and physical function. We examined the physical activity, physical function, psychosocial correlates to physical activity participation, and health-related quality of life of patients before and after GBS. A total of 20 patients were assessed before and 3 months after GBS. Physical activity was assessed using the 7-day physical activity recall questionnaire and a pedometer worn for 7 days. Physical function was assessed using the 6-minute walk test, Short Physical Performance Battery, and the physical function subscale of the Medical Outcomes Short Form-36 (SF-36). The Physical Activity Self-Efficacy questionnaire, the Physical Activity Barriers and Outcome Expectations questionnaire, the SF-36, and the Numeric Pain Rating Scale were also administered. Physical activity did not significantly increase from before (191.1 +/- 228.23 min/wk) to after (231.7 +/- 230.04 min/wk) GBS (n = 18); however, the average daily steps did significantly increase (from 4621 +/- 3701 to 7370 +/- 4240 steps/d; n = 11). The scores for the 6-minute walk test (393 +/- 62.08 m to 446 +/- 41.39 m; n = 17), Short Physical Performance Battery (11.2 +/- 1.22 to 11.7 +/- .57; n = 18), physical function subscale of the SF-36 (65 +/- 18.5 to 84.1 +/- 19.9), and the total SF-36 (38.2 +/- 23.58 to 89.7 +/- 15.5; n = 17) increased significantly. The Numeric Pain Rating Scale score decreased significantly for low back (3.5 +/- 1.8 to 1.7 +/- 2.63), knee (2.4 +/- 2.51 to 1.0 +/- 1.43), and foot/ankle (2.3 +/- 2.8 to 0.9 +/- 2.05) pain. No significant changes were found in the Physical Activity Self-Efficacy questionnaire or the Physical Activity Barriers and Outcome Expectations questionnaire. GBS improves physical function, health-related quality of life, and self-reported pain and results in a modest improvement in physical activity. These are important clinical benefits of surgical weight loss. Long-term follow-up is needed to quantify the ability to sustain or further improve these important clinical outcomes. Copyright 2010 American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. All rights reserved.

Dog ownership, functional ability, and walking in community-dwelling older adults.

PubMed

Gretebeck, Kimberlee A; Radius, Kaitlyn; Black, David R; Gretebeck, Randall J; Ziemba, Rosemary; Glickman, Lawrence T

2013-07-01

Regular walking improves overall health and functional ability of older adults, yet most are sedentary. Dog ownership/pet responsibility may increase walking in older adults. Goals of this study were to identify factors that influence older adult walking and compare physical activity, functional ability and psychosocial characteristics by dog ownership status. In this cross-sectional study, older adults (65-95 years of age, n = 1091) completed and returned questionnaires via postal mail. Measures included: Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly, Physical Functioning Questionnaire and Theory of Planned Behavior Questionnaire. Dog owner/dog walkers (n = 77) reported significantly (P < .05) more total walking, walking frequency, leisure and total physical activity and higher total functional ability than dog owner/nondog walkers (n = 83) and nondog owners (n = 931). Dog owner/nondog walkers reported lower intention and perceived behavioral control and a less positive attitude than dog owner/dog walkers (P < .05). Dog owner/ dog walkers were significantly different than the nondog walker groups in nearly every study variable. Many dog owners (48.1%) reported walking their dogs regularly and the dog owner/dog walkers participated in nearly 50% more total walking than the 2 nondog walking groups, suggesting that pet obligation may provide a purposeful activity that motivates some older dog owners to walk.

[The Family Questionnaire (FB-K) - A Short Version of the General Family Questionnaire and its Reliability and Validity].

PubMed

Sidor, Anna; Cierpka, Manfred

2016-01-01

A standardized assessment of a family system plays a crucial role in family therapy research and diagnostic, as well as in a family therapy itself. A 14-item short version of the General Family Questionnaire (FB-K) was designed to get a tool for assessing family functionality that is low time-consuming. The short version was developed by factor analysis from the long version FA-A. The quality criteria of the family questionnaire were verified in a control sample of 208 high-risk families four months after the birth of their child. The new family questionnaire demonstrates a very good reliability and a satisfactory 8-months-stability. The concurrent validity with the FACES scale "cohesion" is assured. Regarding the construct validity a positive correlation to the feeling of coherence was found. The family questionnaire shows a negative correlation to the maternal postnatal depressive symptoms, the degree of maternal stress burden, the dysfunctionality of the mother-child-relationship and impaired bonding. The values taken from a norm sample with infants are higher by trend and in the sample with children under 18 do not deviate from the values of the risk sample. FB-K covers two aspects of family functioning, the bond between family members and their willingness to communicate. The internal consistency of FB-K is excellent, the criterion and the construct validity are good.

The PROMIS physical function correlates with the QuickDASH in patients with upper extremity illness.

PubMed

Overbeek, Celeste L; Nota, Sjoerd P F T; Jayakumar, Prakash; Hageman, Michiel G; Ring, David

2015-01-01

To assess disability more efficiently with less burden on the patient, the National Institutes of Health has developed the Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Physical Function-an instrument based on item response theory and using computer adaptive testing (CAT). Initially, upper and lower extremity disabilities were not separated and we were curious if the PROMIS Physical Function CAT could measure upper extremity disability and the Quick Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH). We aimed to find correlation between the PROMIS Physical Function and the QuickDASH questionnaires in patients with upper extremity illness. Secondarily, we addressed whether the PROMIS Physical Function and QuickDASH correlate with the PROMIS Depression CAT and PROMIS Pain Interference CAT instruments. Finally, we assessed factors associated with QuickDASH and PROMIS Physical Function in multivariable analysis. A cohort of 93 outpatients with upper extremity illnesses completed the QuickDASH and three PROMIS CAT questionnaires: Physical Function, Pain Interference, and Depression. Pain intensity was measured with an 11-point ordinal measure (0-10 numeric rating scale). Correlation between PROMIS Physical Function and the QuickDASH was assessed. Factors that correlated with the PROMIS Physical Function and QuickDASH were assessed in multivariable regression analysis after initial bivariate analysis. There was a moderate correlation between the PROMIS Physical Function and the QuickDASH questionnaire (r=-0.55, p<0.001). Greater disability as measured with the PROMIS and QuickDASH correlated most strongly with PROMIS Depression (r=-0.35, p<0.001 and r=0.34, p<0.001 respectively) and Pain Interference (r=-0.51, p<0.001 and r=0.74, p<0.001 respectively). The factors accounting for the variability in PROMIS scores are comparable to those for the QuickDASH except that the PROMIS Physical Function is influenced by other pain conditions while the QuickDASH is not. The PROMIS Physical Function instrument may be used as an upper extremity disability measure, as it correlates with the QuickDASH questionnaire, and both instruments are influenced most strongly by the degree to which pain interferes with achieving goals. Level III, diagnostic study. See the Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Polish Adaptation of Wrist Evaluation Questionnaires.

PubMed

Czarnecki, Piotr; Wawrzyniak-Bielęda, Anna; Romanowski, Leszek

2015-01-01

Questionnaires evaluating hand and wrist function are a very useful tool allowing for objective and systematic recording of symptoms reported by the patients. Most questionnaires generally accepted in clinical practice are available in English and need to be appropriately adapted in translation and undergo subsequent validation before they can be used in another culture and language. The process of translation of the questionnaires was based on the generally accepted guidelines of the International Quality of Life Assessment Project (IQOLA). First, the questionnaires were translated from English into Polish by two independent translators. Then, a joint version of the translation was prepared collectively and translated back into English. Each stage was followed by a written report. The translated questionnaires were then evaluated by a group of patients. We selected 31 patients with wrist problems and asked them to complete the PRWE, Mayo, Michigan and DASH questionnaires twice at intervals of 3-10 days. The results were submitted for statistical analysis. We found a statistically significant (p<0.05) correlation for the two completions of the questionnaires. A comparison of the PRWE and Mayo questionnaires with the DASH questionnaire also showed a statistically significant correlation (p<0.05). Our results indicate that the cultural adaptation of the translated questionnaires was successful and that the questionnaires may be used in clinical practice.

Memory Aging Knowledge and Memory Self-Appraisal in Younger and Older Adults

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cherry, Katie E.; Brigman, Susan; Reese-Melancon, Celinda; Burton-Chase, Allison; Holland, Kayla

2013-01-01

The purpose of this study was to examine relationships among memory aging knowledge and memory self-appraisal in college students and community-dwelling older adults. Participants completed the Knowledge of Memory Aging Questionnaire ([KMAQ] Cherry, Brigman, Hawley, & Reese, 2003) and the Memory Functioning Questionnaire ([MFQ] Gilewski,…

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…

75 FR 29552 - Proposed Data Collections Submitted for Public Comment and Recommendations

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-05-26

... collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the agency, including... of the Short Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) in the National Health Interview Survey... and Difficulties Questionnaire (short SDQ), a module that has obtained data on the mental health of...

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.

Mild cognitive impairment is associated with poor physical function but not bone structure or density in late adulthood: findings from the Hertfordshire cohort study.

PubMed

Patel, A; Jameson, K A; Edwards, M H; Ward, K; Gale, C R; Cooper, C; Dennison, Elaine M

2018-04-24

This study investigated the association between mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and physical function and bone health in older adults. MCI was associated with poor physical performance but not bone mineral density or bone microarchitecture. Cross-sectional study to investigate the association between mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and physical performance, and bone health, in a community-dwelling cohort of older adults. Cognitive function of 222 men and 221 women (mean age 75.5 and 75.8 years in men and women, respectively) was assessed by the Strawbridge questionnaire and Mini Mental State Exam (MMSE). Participants underwent dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), peripheral-quantitative computed tomography (pQCT) and high-resolution peripheral-quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) scans to assess their bone density, strength and microarchitecture. Their physical function was assessed and a physical performance (PP) score was recorded. In the study, 11.8% of women and 8.1% of men were cognitively impaired on the MMSE (score < 24). On the Strawbridge questionnaire, 24% of women were deemed cognitively impaired compared to 22.3% of men. Cognitive impairment on the Strawbridge questionnaire was associated with poorer physical performance score in men but not in women in the unadjusted analysis. MMSE < 24 was strongly associated with the risk of low physical performance in men (OR 12.9, 95% CI 1.67, 99.8, p = 0.01). Higher MMSE score was associated with better physical performance in both sexes. Poorer cognitive function, whether assessed by the Strawbridge questionnaire, or by MMSE score, was not associated with bone density, shape or microarchitecture, in either sex. MCI in older adults was associated with poor physical performance, but not bone density, shape or microarchitecture.

Validation of the questionnaire on hand function assessment in leprosy.

PubMed

Ferreira, Telma Leonel; Alvarez, Rosicler Rocha Aiza; Virmond, Marcos da Cunha Lopes

2012-06-01

To validate the psychometric properties of the questionnaire on hand function assessment in leprosy. Study conducted with a convenience sample of 101 consecutive patients in Brasília (Central-Western Brazil), from June 2008 to July 2009. The individuals were adults affected by leprosy, with impairment of the ulnar, median and radial nerves. Interobservers and intraobserver reproducibility was analyzed through successive interviews, and construct validity was analyzed through association between age, clinical form of leprosy, duration of nerve injury, grip and pinch strength measured with a dynamometer, sensibility test performed with Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments and manual ability assessment using the Jebsen test of hand function. Pondered kappa coefficient was calculated and a Bland-Altman plot was constructed to assess the reproducibility of the instrument. For internal consistency, Cronbach's alpha coefficient was utilized. Pearson's correlation coefficient was calculated and a multiple regression model was used. The pondered kappa values for interobservers and intraobserver assessments ranged from 0.86 to 0.97 and from 0.85 to 0.97, respectively. The value of Cronbach's alpha coefficient was 0.967. Pearson's correlation coefficient showed an association (p < 0.001) among duration of nerve injury, grip and pinch strength, cutaneous sensibility and mean score in the Jebsen Test. The mean score of the questionnaire on hand functional assessment in leprosy was associated with operational classification of leprosy, duration of nerve injury, grip strength, cutaneous sensibility and manual ability (p < 0.0001 for the model as a whole). The questionnaire on hand functional assessment in leprosy presents almost perfect interobservers and intraobserver reproducibility, high internal consistency and correlation with operational classification of leprosy, duration of nerve injury, grip strength, cutaneous sensibility in the hands and manual ability.

Therapeutic effects of short-term monochromatic infrared energy therapy on patients with knee osteoarthritis: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study.

PubMed

Hsieh, Ru-Lan; Lo, Min-Tzu; Lee, Wen-Chung; Liao, Wei-Cheng

2012-11-01

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. To examine the short-term therapeutic effects of monochromatic infrared energy (MIRE) on participants with knee osteoarthritis (OA). Patients were assessed according to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health. MIRE is commonly used in therapy for patients with peripheral neuropathies. However, research has not focused intensively on the therapeutic effects of MIRE in patients with knee OA. This study enrolled 73 participants with knee OA. Participants received six 40-minute sessions of active or placebo MIRE treatment (890-nm wavelength; power, 6.24 W; energy density, 2.08 J/cm2/min; total energy, 83.2 J/cm2) over the knee joints for 2 weeks. International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health-related outcomes were collected weekly over 4 weeks using the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, Lysholm Knee Scale, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory, Chronic Pain Grade questionnaire, World Health Organization Quality of Life-brief version, and OA Quality of Life Questionnaire. Data were analyzed by repeated-measures analysis of variance. No statistically significant differences were found for the interaction of group by time for Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score scores, including pain, other symptoms, function in daily living, function in sport and recreation, and knee-related quality of life. Scores on the Lysholm Knee Scale, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory, Chronic Pain Grade questionnaire, World Health Organization Quality of Life-brief version, and OA Quality of Life Questionnaire also showed no significant differences between the 2 groups at any of the 4 follow-up assessments. Short-term MIRE therapy provided no beneficial effects to body functions, activities, participation, and quality of life in patients with knee OA.

Quality of life of patients who have undergone the minimally invasive repair of pectus carinatum.

PubMed

Bostanci, Korkut; Ozalper, Mehmet Hakan; Eldem, Barkin; Ozyurtkan, Mehmet Oguzhan; Issaka, Adamu; Ermerak, Nezih Onur; Yuksel, Mustafa

2013-01-01

Several studies previously demonstrated an improvement in the quality of life (QoL) of the patients undergoing a minimally invasive repair of pectus excavatum, but there are no data about such improvement following the minimally invasive repair of pectus carinatum (PC) deformity. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of the minimally invasive repair of PC deformity on the psychosocial and physical functioning of the patients. Among 40 patients who underwent minimally invasive repair for PC deformity from July 2008 to March 2011, 35 patients accepted to answer the QoL questionnaires, and 30 of them who had completed the postoperative 6th month were evaluated in this study. The modified two-step Nuss questionnaire was used for the QoL assessment. All patients and their parents completed the appropriate questionnaires regarding the patients' preoperative psychosocial and physical functioning, and they were asked to answer the same questions on the postoperative 6th month. The results from these questionnaires were analysed using Wilcoxon signed rank test to investigate the effects of the minimally invasive repair of PC deformity on psychosocial and physical functioning of the patients. The questionnaires used in the study confirmed the positive impact of the surgical correction on psychosocial and physical well-being in the patients and their parents. Spearman's ρ correlation coefficient determined how well the answers to the same question at two different times correlated with each other, and Cronbach's alpha demonstrated the internal consistency of these answers. These two parameters showed that the statistical results of the study were reliable enough. Statistical analysis of the scoring of the individual questions and the total scoring of individual patients revealed a statistically significant improvement (P < 0.05) following surgery. Similar significant improvements were observed in the total scoring of individual parents and in most scoring of the individual questions (10 of 13, 77%) in the parental questionnaire (P < 0.05). The results of this study confirm for the first time that minimally invasive repair of PC deformity has a positive impact on both psychosocial and physical functioning of the patient, which is supported by parental assessment.

The interplay between sleep and mood in predicting academic functioning, physical health and psychological health: a longitudinal study.

PubMed

Wong, Mark Lawrence; Lau, Esther Yuet Ying; Wan, Jacky Ho Yin; Cheung, Shu Fai; Hui, C Harry; Mok, Doris Shui Ying

2013-04-01

Existing studies on sleep and behavioral outcomes are mostly correlational. Longitudinal data is limited. The current longitudinal study assessed how sleep duration and sleep quality may be causally linked to daytime functions, including physical health (physical well-being and daytime sleepiness), psychological health (mood and self-esteem) and academic functioning (school grades and study effort). The mediation role of mood in the relationship between sleep quality, sleep duration and these daytime functions is also assessed. A sample of 930 Chinese students (aged 18-25) from Hong Kong/Macau completed self-reported questionnaires online across three academic semesters. Sleep behaviors are assessed by the sleep timing questionnaire (for sleep duration and weekday/weekend sleep discrepancy) and the Pittsburgh sleep quality index (sleep quality); physical health by the World Health Organization quality of life scale-brief version (physical well-being) and Epworth Sleepiness Scale (daytime sleepiness); psychological health by the depression anxiety stress scale (mood) and Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale (self-esteem) and academic functioning by grade-point-average and the college student expectation questionnaire (study effort). Structural equation modeling with a bootstrap resample of 5000 showed that after controlling for demographics and participants' daytime functions at baseline, academic functions, physical and psychological health were predicted by the duration and quality of sleep. While some sleep behaviors directly predicted daytime functions, others had an indirect effect on daytime functions through negative mood, such as anxiety. Sleep duration and quality have direct and indirect (via mood) effects on college students' academic function, physical and psychological health. Our findings underscore the importance of healthy sleep patterns for better adjustment in college years. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Acceptability of Functional Behavioral Assessment Procedures to Special Educators and School Psychologists

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

O'Neill, Robert E.; Bundock, Kaitlin; Kladis, Kristin; Hawken, Leanne S.

2015-01-01

This survey study assessed the acceptability of a variety of functional behavioral assessment (FBA) procedures (i.e., functional assessment interviews, rating scales/questionnaires, systematic direct observations, functional analysis manipulations) to a national sample of 123 special educators and a state sample of 140 school psychologists.…

Reliability and validity of an adapted Arabic version of the Scoliosis Research Society-22r Questionnaire.

PubMed

Haidar, Rachid K; Kassak, Kassem; Masrouha, Karim; Ibrahim, Kamal; Mhaidli, Hani

2015-09-01

Cross-sectional validation and reliability assessment study of Arabic version of Scoliosis Research Society-22 (SRS-22r) Questionnaire. To develop and validate the Arabic version of the SRS-22r questionnaire. The diagnosis and treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis may influence patient quality of life. SRS-22r is an internationally validated questionnaire used to assess function/activity, pain, self-image, and mental health of patients with scoliosis. It has been translated into several languages but not into Arabic language. Therefore, a valid health-related quality-of-life outcome questionnaire for patients with spinal deformity is still lacking in Arabic language. The English version of SRS-22r questionnaire was translated, back-translated, and culturally adapted to Arabic language. Then, 81 patients with idiopathic adolescent scoliosis were allocated randomly into either the reliability testing group (group 1) or the validity testing group (group 2). Group 1 patients completed Arabic version of SRS-22r questionnaire twice with 1-week interval in-between. Cronbach α and intraclass correlation coefficient were measured to determine internal consistency and temporal reliability. Group 2 patients completed the Arabic version of SRS-22r questionnaire and the previously validated Arabic version of 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (Short Form-36) questionnaire concurrently, and Pearson correlation coefficient was obtained to assess validity. Content analysis, internal consistency reliability, test/retest reproducibility (intraclass correlation coefficient range: 0.82-0.90), and test of concurrent validity showed satisfactory results. Function/activity and satisfaction with management domains had a lower Cronbach α (0.58 and 0.44, respectively, vs. 0.71-0.85 range for others). Self-image/appearance and satisfaction with management had a lower correlation with domains of the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey. An Arabic version of the SRS-22r questionnaire has been developed and validated. This questionnaire will aid health care workers and researchers in evaluation of patient perception of the deformity, satisfaction with treatment, and quality of life in Arabic-speaking populations. 3.

Psychological and functional effect of different primary treatments for prostate cancer: A comparative prospective analysis.

PubMed

Sciarra, Alessandro; Gentilucci, Alessandro; Salciccia, Stefano; Von Heland, Magnus; Ricciuti, Giam Piero; Marzio, Vittorio; Pierella, Federico; Musio, Daniela; Tombolini, Vincenzo; Frantellizzi, Viviana; Pasquini, Massimo; Maraone, Annalisa; Guandalini, Alessio; Maggi, Martina

2018-04-26

The aim of the study was to comparatively evaluate the psychological and functional effect of different primary treatments in patients with prostate cancer. We conducted a single-center prospective non randomized study in a real-life setting using functional and psychological questionnaires in prostate cancer cases submitted to radical prostatectomy, external radiotherapy, or active surveillance. Totally, 220 cases were evaluated at baseline and during the follow-up at 1-, 3-, 6-, and 12-month interval after therapy. Patients self-completed questionnaires on urinary symptoms and incontinence, erectile and bowel function, psychological distress (PD), anxiety, and depression. Several significant differences among the three groups of treatment were found regarding the total score of the functional questionnaires. Regarding PD, cases submitted to radical prostatectomy showed stable scores during all the 12 months of follow-up whereas cases submitted to radiotherapy showed a rapid significant worsening of scores at 1-month interval and persistent also at 6- and 12-month interval. Cases submitted to active surveillance showed a slight and slow worsening of scores only at 12-month interval. PD and depression resulted to be more associated with urinary symptoms than sexual function worsening whereas anxiety resulted to be associated either with urinary symptoms or sexual function worsening. The results of our comparative and prospective analysis could be used to better inform treatment decision-making. Patients and their teams might wish to know how functional and psychological aspects may differently be influenced by treatment choice. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Instruments used to assess functional limitations in workers applying for disability benefit: a systematic review.

PubMed

Spanjer, Jerry; Groothoff, Johan W; Brouwer, Sandra

2011-01-01

To systematically review the quality of the psychometric properties of instruments for assessing functional limitations in workers applying for disability benefit. Electronic searches of Medline, Embase, CINAHL and PsycINFO were performed to identify studies focusing on the psychometric properties of instruments used to assess functional limitations in workers' compensation claimants. Two independent reviewers applied the inclusion criteria to select relevant articles and then evaluated the psychometric qualities of the instruments found. Of the 712 articles that were identified, 10 studies met the inclusion criteria, reporting on four instruments: the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ), the Patient-Specific Functional Scale (PSFS), the Isernhagen Work System (IWS) and the Multiperspective Multidimensional Pain Assessment Protocol (MMPAP). The questionnaires (RMDQ and PSFS) did not focus specifically on the work situation and measured three to eight functional limitations. The psychometric qualities of the IWS were poor to moderate. For the MMPAP, only predictive validity was measured. The instruments assessed a range varying between 3 and 34 physical functional limitations. No instruments were found for assessing mental limitations in workers' compensation claimants. Studies on four instruments specifically focusing on assessing physical functional limitations in workers applying for disability benefit were found. All four instruments have limitations regarding their psychometric qualities or contents. Since the RMDQ has the best demonstrated psychometric qualities and takes little time to complete it, we recommend the RMDQ for clinicians in rehabilitation. For the assessment of functional limitations in workers applying for disability benefit a combination of questionnaires, performance tests or interviews together with the judgment by physicians looks the most promising.

Improving the measurement of health-related quality of life in adolescent with idiopathic scoliosis: the SRS-7, a Rasch-developed short form of the SRS-22 questionnaire.

PubMed

Caronni, Antonio; Zaina, Fabio; Negrini, Stefano

2014-04-01

Scoliosis Research Society-22 (SRS-22) questionnaire was developed to evaluate health-related quality of life (HRQL) in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients. Rasch analysis (RA) is a statistical procedure which turns questionnaire ordinal scores into interval measures. Measures from Rasch-compatible questionnaires can be used, similar to body temperature or blood pressure, to quantify disease severity progression and treatment efficacy. Purpose of the current work is to present Rasch analysis (RA) of the SRS-22 questionnaire and to develop an SRS-22 Rasch-approved short form. 300 SRS-22 were randomly collected from 2447 consecutive IS adolescents at their first evaluation (229 females; 13.9 ± 1.9 years; 26.9 ± 14.7 Cobb°) in a scoliosis outpatient clinic. RA showed both disordered thresholds and overall misfit of the SRS-22. Sixteen items were re-scored and two misfitting items (6 and 14) removed to obtain a Rasch-compatible questionnaire. Participants HRQL measured too high with the rearranged questionnaire, indicating a severe SRS-22 ceiling effect. RA also highlighted SRS-22 multidimensionality, with pain/function not merging with self-image/mental health items. Item 3 showed differential item functioning (DIF) for both curve and hump amplitude. A 7-item questionnaire (SRS-7) was prepared by selecting single items from the original SRS-22. SRS-7 showed fit to the model, unidimensionality and no DIF. Compared with the SRS-22, the short form scale shows better targeting of the participants' population. RA shows that SRS-22 has poor clinimetric properties; moreover, when used with AIS at first evaluation, SRS-22 is affected by a severe ceiling effect. SRS-7, an SRS-22 7-item short form questionnaire, provides an HRQL interval measure better tailored to these participants. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Inter-Relationships of Functional Status in Cerebral Palsy: Analyzing Gross Motor Function, Manual Ability, and Communication Function Classification Systems in Children

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hidecker, Mary Jo Cooley; Ho, Nhan Thi; Dodge, Nancy; Hurvitz, Edward A.; Slaughter, Jaime; Workinger, Marilyn Seif; Kent, Ray D.; Rosenbaum, Peter; Lenski, Madeleine; Messaros, Bridget M.; Vanderbeek, Suzette B.; Deroos, Steven; Paneth, Nigel

2012-01-01

Aim: To investigate the relationships among the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS), Manual Ability Classification System (MACS), and Communication Function Classification System (CFCS) in children with cerebral palsy (CP). Method: Using questionnaires describing each scale, mothers reported GMFCS, MACS, and CFCS levels in 222…

Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire and Oswestry Disability Index: Which Has Better Measurement Properties for Measuring Physical Functioning in Nonspecific Low Back Pain? Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

PubMed

Chiarotto, Alessandro; Maxwell, Lara J; Terwee, Caroline B; Wells, George A; Tugwell, Peter; Ostelo, Raymond W

2016-10-01

Physical functioning is a core outcome domain to be measured in nonspecific low back pain (NSLBP). A panel of experts recommended the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) to measure this domain. The original 24-item RMDQ and ODI 2.1a are recommended by their developers. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether the 24-item RMDQ or the ODI 2.1a has better measurement properties than the other to measure physical functioning in adult patients with NSLBP. Bibliographic databases (MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, SportDiscus, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar), references of existing reviews, and citation tracking were the data sources. Two reviewers selected studies performing a head-to-head comparison of measurement properties (reliability, validity, and responsiveness) of the 2 questionnaires. The COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) checklist was used to assess the methodological quality of these studies. The studies' characteristics and results were extracted by 2 reviewers. A meta-analysis was conducted when there was sufficient clinical and methodological homogeneity among studies. Nine articles were included, for a total of 11 studies assessing 5 measurement properties. All studies were classified as having poor or fair methodological quality. The ODI displayed better test-retest reliability and smaller measurement error, whereas the RMDQ presented better construct validity as a measure of physical functioning. There was conflicting evidence for both instruments regarding responsiveness and inconclusive evidence for internal consistency. The results of this review are not generalizable to all available versions of these questionnaires or to patients with specific causes for their LBP. Based on existing head-to-head comparison studies, there are no strong reasons to prefer 1 of these 2 instruments to measure physical functioning in patients with NSLBP, but studies of higher quality are needed to confirm this conclusion. Foremost, content, structural, and cross-cultural validity of these questionnaires in patients with NSLBP should be assessed and compared. © 2016 American Physical Therapy Association.

Parental questionnaire as a screening instrument for motor function at age five.

PubMed

Nordbye-Nielsen, Kirsten; Kesmodel, Ulrik Schiøler

2014-12-01

No standardised method is used to determine motor function in children in general practice in Denmark. Our aim was to evaluate the correlation between a parental questionnaire assessing motor function at the age of five years and the clinical test Movement Assessment Battery for Children (M-ABC), and to assess whether one or more questions could be used to screen for motor problems at the age of five years. This study was based on a parental questionnaire containing ten questions. The M-ABC was used as the gold standard. n = 755 children. The Mann-Whitney rank sum test, Pearson's χ(2)-test, logistic regression analyses and sensitivity and specificity were used to assess the correlation between the questionnaire and the M-ABC test. The best screening tool was six questions in combination: sensitivity 39.8%, specificity 87.1%. Asking if a health professional ever expressed concern about the childs motor development had a sensitivity of 17.0% and a specificity of 93.9%. A parental questionnaire used as a screening instrument to identify children with motor problems has a reasonable specificity, but a low sensitivity. The six questions can be used to identify children who do not have motor function difficulties with a relatively high certainty, and it can fairly well identify children with motor function problems. This study was primarily supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, Georgia, USA. Additional support was obtained from The Danish Health and Medicines Authority, the Lundbeck Foundation, Ludvig & Daara Elsass Foundation, the Augustinus Foundation, and Aase & Ejnar Danielsens Foundation. The Danish National Research Foundation has established the Danish Epidemiology Science Centre that initiated and created the Danish National Birth Cohort. The cohort is furthermore a result of a major grant from this Foundation. Additional support for the Danish National Birth Cohort is obtained from the Pharmacy Foundation, the Egmont Foundation, the March of Dimes Birth Defects Foundation, the Augustinus Foundation and the Health Foundation. Approved by the Danish National Birth Cohort (DNBC) Board of Directors, the DNBC Steering Committee, the Regional Ethics Committee, the Danish Data Protection Agency and the CDC Institutional Review Board.

Self-care and quality of life of heart failure patients at a multidisciplinary heart function clinic.

PubMed

Seto, Emily; Leonard, Kevin J; Cafazzo, Joseph A; Masino, Caterina; Barnsley, Jan; Ross, Heather J

2011-01-01

Multidisciplinary heart function clinics aim to improve self-care through patient education and to provide clinical management. The objectives of the present study were to investigate the self-care and quality of life of patients attending a multidisciplinary heart function clinic and to explore the relationship between self-care and quality of life. One hundred outpatients attending a multidisciplinary heart function clinic were asked to complete a questionnaire. The questionnaire included the Self-care of Heart Failure Index (SCHFI) and the Minnesota Living With Heart Failure Questionnaire, which were used to assess self-care behavior and quality of life, respectively. Self-care practices and perceived barriers were also assessed through semistructured interviews with each patient. : The returned questionnaires (n = 94) were used to compute the following SCHFI maintenance, management, and confidence scores: 60.8 (SD, 19.3), 62.0 (SD, 20.7), and 55.9 (SD, 19.7), respectively. Higher SCHFI scores indicate better self-care. None of the self-care dimensions reached the self-care adequacy cut point of 70. The average score on the Minnesota Living With Heart Failure Questionnaire was 49.9 (SD, 25.4), indicating a moderate health-related quality of life. Lower ejection fraction, older age, and better quality of life were associated with better self-care. Determinants of better quality of life were older age, better functional capacity, higher self-care confidence, and fewer comorbidities. The patient interviews revealed that better quality of life is associated with higher self-care confidence and barriers to self-care caused anxiety to the patients. The self-care barriers were found to include lack of self-care education, financial constraints, lack of perceived benefit, and low self-efficacy. Patients attending a large multidisciplinary Canadian heart failure clinic do not perform adequate self-care as measured with the SCHFI and report only a moderate quality of life. Increasing self-care through education and tools that target self-care barriers are required and may help improve quality of life.

Does a missed obstetric anal sphincter injury at time of delivery affect short-term functional outcome?

PubMed

Ramage, L; Yen, C; Qiu, S; Simillis, C; Kontovounisios, C; Tan, E; Tekkis, P

2018-01-01

Introduction This study aimed to ascertain whether missed obstetric anal sphincter injury at delivery had worse functional and quality of life outcomes than primary repair immediately following delivery. Materials and methods Two to one propensity matching was undertaken of patients presenting to a tertiary pelvic floor unit with ultrasound evidence of missed obstetric anal sphincter injury within 24 months of delivery with patients who underwent primary repair at the time of delivery by parity, grade of injury and time to assessment. Outcomes compared included Birmingham Bowel, Bladder and Urinary Symptom Questionnaire (BBUSQ), Wexner Incontinence Score, Short Form-36, Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire and anorectal physiology results. Results Thirty-two missed anal sphincter injuries were matched two to one with sixty-two patients who underwent primary repair of an anal sphincter defect. Mean time to follow-up was 9.31 ± 6.79 months. Patients with a missed anal sphincter injury had suffered more incontinence, as seen in higher the Birmingham Bowel, Bladder and Urinary Symptom Questionnaire (BBUSQ; 30.56% ± 14.41% vs. 19.75% ± 15.65%, P = 0.002) and Wexner scores (6.00 ± 3.76 vs. 3.67 ± 4.06, P = 0.009). They also had a worse BBUSQ urinary domain score (28.25% ± 14.9% vs. 17.01 ± 13.87%, P = 0.001) and worse physical functioning as measured by the Short Form-36 questionnaire (P = 0.045). There were no differences in other outcomes compared, including anorectal physiology and sexual function. Discussion In the short-term, patients with a missed obstetric anal sphincter injury had significantly worse faecal incontinence and urinary function scores, however quality of life and sexual function were largely comparable between groups. Conclusions Longer-term follow-up is needed to assess the effects of missed obstetric anal sphincter injury over time.

Factor analytic study of two questionnaires measuring oral health-related quality of life among children and adults in New Zealand, Germany and Poland.

PubMed

Tapsoba, H; Deschamps, J P; Leclercq, M H

2000-01-01

A questionnaire designed to measure oral health-related quality of life (OHRQOL) in adults and children was assessed for its factorial structure and reliability using data from the Second International Collaborative Study on Oral Health Outcomes in New Zealand, Poland and Germany. Principal component analysis with orthogonal and oblique rotation was applied. The three-factor structure hypothesized for the children's questionnaire (self-reported oral disease symptoms, perceived oral well-being, social and physical functioning) was confirmed in New Zealand and Poland, and two self-reported oral disease symptom dimensions emerged in Germany. Five factors instead of the three hypothesized were identified for adults: two dimensions of symptoms were identified, and social and physical functioning appeared to be independent dimensions of OHRQOL. Similarity between the factors was demonstrated in all three countries. The reliability of the questionnaire ranged from moderate to excellent depending on the dimension and the country. These findings provide preliminary evidence of the cross-cultural stability of the OHRQOL questionnaire in New Zealand, Poland and Germany, for both children and adults. Further investigations by the present authors of the properties of the instrument in other samples will focus on demonstrating the stability and replicability of the factor structure identified here.

Functional impairment in patients with major depressive disorder: the 2-year PERFORM study

PubMed Central

Hammer-Helmich, Lene; Haro, Josep Maria; Jönsson, Bengt; Tanguy Melac, Audrey; Di Nicola, Sylvie; Chollet, Julien; Milea, Dominique; Rive, Benoît; Saragoussi, Delphine

2018-01-01

Background The Prospective Epidemiological Research on Functioning Outcomes Related to Major depressive disorder (PERFORM) study describes the course of depressive symptoms, perceived cognitive symptoms, and functional impairment over 2 years in outpatients with major depressive disorder (MDD) and investigates the patient-related factors associated with functional impairment. Methods This was a 2-year observational study in 1,159 outpatients with MDD aged 18–65 years who were either initiating antidepressant monotherapy or undergoing their first switch of antidepressant. Functional impairment was assessed by the Sheehan Disability Scale and the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment questionnaire. Patients assessed depression severity using the nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire and severity of perceived cognitive symptoms using the five-item Perceived Deficit Questionnaire. To investigate which patient-related factors were associated with functional impairment, univariate analyses of variance were performed to identify relevant factors that were then included in multivariate analyses of covariance at baseline, month 2, months 6 and 12 combined, and months 18 and 24 combined. Results The greatest improvement in depressive symptoms, perceived cognitive symptoms, and functional impairment was seen immediately (within 2 months) following initiation or switch of antidepressant therapy, followed by more gradual improvement and long-term stabilization. Improvement in perceived cognitive symptoms was less marked than improvement in depressive symptoms during the acute treatment phase. Functional impairment in patients with MDD was not only associated with severity of depressive symptoms but also independently associated with severity of perceived cognitive symptoms when adjusted for depression severity throughout the 2 years of follow-up. Conclusion These findings highlight the burden of functional impairment in MDD and the importance of recognizing and managing cognitive symptoms in daily practice. PMID:29386897

Functional impairment in patients with major depressive disorder: the 2-year PERFORM study.

PubMed

Hammer-Helmich, Lene; Haro, Josep Maria; Jönsson, Bengt; Tanguy Melac, Audrey; Di Nicola, Sylvie; Chollet, Julien; Milea, Dominique; Rive, Benoît; Saragoussi, Delphine

2018-01-01

The Prospective Epidemiological Research on Functioning Outcomes Related to Major depressive disorder (PERFORM) study describes the course of depressive symptoms, perceived cognitive symptoms, and functional impairment over 2 years in outpatients with major depressive disorder (MDD) and investigates the patient-related factors associated with functional impairment. This was a 2-year observational study in 1,159 outpatients with MDD aged 18-65 years who were either initiating antidepressant monotherapy or undergoing their first switch of antidepressant. Functional impairment was assessed by the Sheehan Disability Scale and the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment questionnaire. Patients assessed depression severity using the nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire and severity of perceived cognitive symptoms using the five-item Perceived Deficit Questionnaire. To investigate which patient-related factors were associated with functional impairment, univariate analyses of variance were performed to identify relevant factors that were then included in multivariate analyses of covariance at baseline, month 2, months 6 and 12 combined, and months 18 and 24 combined. The greatest improvement in depressive symptoms, perceived cognitive symptoms, and functional impairment was seen immediately (within 2 months) following initiation or switch of antidepressant therapy, followed by more gradual improvement and long-term stabilization. Improvement in perceived cognitive symptoms was less marked than improvement in depressive symptoms during the acute treatment phase. Functional impairment in patients with MDD was not only associated with severity of depressive symptoms but also independently associated with severity of perceived cognitive symptoms when adjusted for depression severity throughout the 2 years of follow-up. These findings highlight the burden of functional impairment in MDD and the importance of recognizing and managing cognitive symptoms in daily practice.

77 FR 5581 - Submission for Review: Financial Resources Questionnaire (RI 34-1, RI 34-17) and Notice of Amount...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-02-03

... OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT Submission for Review: Financial Resources Questionnaire (RI 34- 1... opportunity to comment on a revised information collection request (ICR) 3206-0167, Financial Resources... whether the proposed collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of functions of the...

Questionnaire typography and production.

PubMed

Gray, M

1975-06-01

This article describes the typographic principles and practice which provide the basis of good design and print, the relevant printing processes which can be used, and the graphic designer's function in questionnaire production. As they impose constraints on design decisions to be discussed later in the text, the various methods of printing and production are discussed first.

Web-Based Assessment of Visual and Visuospatial Symptoms in Parkinson's Disease

PubMed Central

Amick, Melissa M.; Miller, Ivy N.; Neargarder, Sandy; Cronin-Golomb, Alice

2012-01-01

Visual and visuospatial dysfunction is prevalent in Parkinson's disease (PD). To promote assessment of these often overlooked symptoms, we adapted the PD Vision Questionnaire for Internet administration. The questionnaire evaluates visual and visuospatial symptoms, impairments in activities of daily living (ADLs), and motor symptoms. PD participants of mild to moderate motor severity (n = 24) and healthy control participants (HC, n = 23) completed the questionnaire in paper and web-based formats. Reliability was assessed by comparing responses across formats. Construct validity was evaluated by reference to performance on measures of vision, visuospatial cognition, ADLs, and motor symptoms. The web-based format showed excellent reliability with respect to the paper format for both groups (all P′s < 0.001; HC completing the visual and visuospatial section only). Demonstrating the construct validity of the web-based questionnaire, self-rated ADL and visual and visuospatial functioning were significantly associated with performance on objective measures of these abilities (all P′s < 0.01). The findings indicate that web-based administration may be a reliable and valid method of assessing visual and visuospatial and ADL functioning in PD. PMID:22530162

Sexual and functional results after creation of a neovagina in women with Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome: a comparison of nonsurgical and surgical procedures.

PubMed

Morcel, Karine; Lavoué, Vincent; Jaffre, Frédérique; Paniel, Bernard-Jean; Rouzier, Roman

2013-07-01

To compare nonsurgical and surgical procedures for creation of a neovagina in women with Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome in terms of sexual satisfaction. We report a cross-sectional study of 91 women with MRKH syndrome undergoing a neovagina creation procedure. They were members of the French National Association of Women with MRKH syndrome. We analyzed all answers to a questionnaire mailed to each woman. The questionnaire solicited short answers concerning the diagnosis and the neovagina procedure, and included the standardized FSFI (Female Sexual Function Index) questionnaire. All analyses were performed using the chi-squared test and Student's t-test. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Forty women answered the questionnaire. Twenty had been treated by Frank's method (non-surgical group) and 20 had undergone a surgical procedure, sigmoid vaginoplasty (12 cases) or Davidov's technique (8 cases) (surgical group). The mean time after neovagina creation was 7 years (range 1-44 years). The population characteristics did not differ significantly between the nonsurgical and surgical groups. The total FSFI score indicated good and similar functional results in the two groups (25.3±7.5 versus 25.3±8.0). Functional sexual outcomes after nonsurgical and surgical methods were similar. Therefore, the Frank's method should be proposed as first line therapy because it is less invasive than surgical procedures. In the case of failure of this technique or of refusal by the patient, surgical reconstruction may then be offered. Copyright © 2013. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.

The Sexual Thoughts Questionnaire: Psychometric Evaluation of a Measure to Assess Self-Reported Thoughts During Exposure to Erotica Using Sexually Functional Individuals.

PubMed

Sigre-Leirós, Vera; Carvalho, Joana; Nobre, Pedro J

2016-05-01

Validated instruments for assessing specific thought content during exposure to sexually explicit material are lacking. To investigate the psychometric properties of a measure that assesses self-reported thoughts during exposure to sexual stimuli in laboratory settings, namely the Sexual Thoughts Questionnaire. The factorial structure of the questionnaire and its reliability and validity were examined. One hundred sixty-seven sexually functional individuals (97 women and 70 men) were exposed to sexually explicit material while their genital arousal was being assessed. Subjective sexual arousal and thoughts during exposure to sexually explicit material also were assessed. Women's genital arousal was measured with a vaginal photoplethysmograph and men's genital arousal was measured with an indium-gallium strain gauge. Subjective sexual arousal and thoughts during exposure to erotica were assessed with self-report scales. Principal component analysis with varimax rotation identified five factors: sexual arousal thoughts, distractive and disengaging thoughts, body image and performance thoughts, actress's physical attractiveness thoughts, and sinful and lack of affection thoughts. Moreover, the scale showed satisfactory levels of internal consistency. Studies on convergent validity showed an association between self-reported thoughts and subjective sexual arousal levels in the women and men. The Sexual Thoughts Questionnaire showed adequate psychometric properties in a sexually functional sample. It could be useful in further experimental research on the role of cognitions in sexual response and allow further comparison between sexually functional and dysfunctional individuals, with possible significant implications for the assessment and treatment of sexual problems. Copyright © 2016 International Society for Sexual Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Validation of an adapted arabic version of fibromyalgia syndrome impact questionnaire.

PubMed

El-Naby, Mai Abd; Hefny, Mohamed Ahmed; Fahim, Ayman Ekram; Awadalla, Magdy Ahmed

2013-10-01

Fibromyalgia (FM) is the most common chronic pain syndrome encountered in medical practice, affecting females more than males, and the estimated prevalence of FM in Egypt is 1.3 %. The aim was to translate and adapt the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) into Arabic and assess reliability and validity. The Arabic version of Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ-A) was adapted following the forward/backward translation approach. Fifty-one female patients with FM were studied to assess psychometric properties of the FIQ-A. Reliability was analyzed by the correlation coefficient between test and retest. Internal consistency was checked by the Cronbach's alpha coefficient. Construct validity was assessed comparing FIQ-A with Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), Health Assessment Questionnaire of Fibromyalgia (FHAQ), The Medical Outcome Survey Short-Form-36 (SF-36), and the Total Visual Analog Scale (TVAS) for FM symptom, and feasibility was assessed by the time taken in completing the FIQ-A and the proportion of patients completed the questionnaire. Patients studied were 33.2 ± 9.8 years old. Translation was concordant. Adaptation affected 4 sub-items of physical function. Test-retest correlation coefficient was 0.89 for total FIQ-A and Cronbach's alpha was 0.76. Excellent to good statistically significant correlations (p < 0.05) were found between the FIQ-A items and HAQ, FHAQ, and SF-36. The FIQ-A is a reliable, valid for measuring health status and physical function in Arabic-speaking FM patients.

Community Violence, Family Conflict, and Preschoolers' Socioemotional Functioning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Farver, Jo Ann M.; Xu, Yiyuan; Eppe, Stefanie; Fernandez, Alicia; Schwartz, David

2005-01-01

This study examined the relations among family conflict, community violence, and young children's socioemotional functioning and explored how children's social cognition and mothers' psychological functioning may mediate the outcomes associated with this exposure. Mothers of 431 Head Start preschoolers completed questionnaires about their family…

Cultural adaptation and validation of the "Kidney Disease and Quality of Life--Short Form (KDQOL-SF™) version 1.3" questionnaire in Egypt.

PubMed

Abd ElHafeez, Samar; Sallam, Sunny A; Gad, Zahira M; Zoccali, Carmine; Torino, Claudia; Tripepi, Giovanni; ElWakil, Hala S; Awad, Noha M

2012-12-13

Health Related Quality of Life (HRQOL) instruments need disease and country specific validation. In Arab countries, there is no specific validated questionnaire for assessment of HRQOL in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. The aim of this study was to present an Arabic translation, adaptation, and the subsequent validation of the kidney disease quality of life-short form (KDQOL-SFTM) version 1.3 questionnaire in a representative series of Egyptian CKD patients. KDQOL-SFTM version 1.3 was translated into Arabic by two independent translators, and then subsequently translated back into English. After translation disparities were reconciled, the final Arabic questionnaire was tested by interviewing 100 pre-dialysis CKD (stage 1-4) patients randomly selected from outpatients attending the Nephrology clinic at the Main Alexandria University Hospital. Test re-test reliability was performed, with a subsample of 50 consecutive CKD patients, by two interviews 7 days apart and internal consistency estimated by Cronbach's α. Discriminant, concept, and construct validity were assessed. All items of SF-36 met the criterion for internal consistency and were reproducible. Of the 10 kidney disease targeted scales, only three had Cronbach's α <0.7: quality of social interaction (0.23), work status (0.28), and cognitive function (0.60). All disease specific scales were reproducible. Results from discriminant validity showed that the study questionnaire could discriminate between patients' subgroups. As for concept validity, the correlation between all domains of the questionnaire with overall health ratewas significant for all domains except for the work status, sexual function, emotional wellbeing, and role emotional. Furthermore, the correlation between the disease specific domains and the two composite summaries of SF-36 (physical and mental composite summaries) was significant for all domains except for sexual function with mental composite summary. Construct validity was indicated by the observation that the majority of the domains of the kidney disease targeted scale of KDQOL-SFTM 1.3 were significantly inter-correlated. Finally, principal component analysis of the kidney disease targeted scale indicated that this part of the questionnaire could be summarized into 10 factors that together explained 70.9% of the variance. The results suggest that this Arabic version of the KDQOL-SFTM 1.3 questionnaire is a valid and reliable tool for use in Egyptian patients with CKD.

Factor Analysis of the Modified Sexual Adjustment Questionnaire-Male

PubMed Central

Wilmoth, Margaret C.; Hanlon, Alexandra L.; Ng, Lit Soo; Bruner, Debra W.

2015-01-01

Background and Purpose The Sexual Adjustment Questionnaire (SAQ) is used in National Cancer Institute–sponsored clinical trials as an outcome measure for sexual functioning. The tool was revised to meet the needs for a clinically useful, theory-based outcome measure for use in both research and clinical settings. This report describes the modifications and validity testing of the modified Sexual Adjustment Questionnaire-Male (mSAQ-Male). Methods This secondary analysis of data from a large Radiation Therapy Oncology Group trial employed principal axis factor analytic techniques in estimating validity of the revised tool. The sample size was 686; most subjects were White, older than the age 60 years, and with a high school education and a Karnofsky performance scale (KPS) score of greater than 90. Results A 16-item, 3-factor solution resulted from the factor analysis. The mSAQ-Male was also found to be sensitive to changes in physical sexual functioning as measured by the KPS. Conclusion The mSAQ-Male is a valid self-report measure of sexuality that can be used clinically to detect changes in male sexual functioning. PMID:25255676

Function and the patient with chronic low back pain.

PubMed

Strong, J; Ashton, R; Large, R G

1994-09-01

To undertake a comparative examination of the reliability and validity of two frequently used self-report measures of functional disability, the Pain Disability Index (PDI) and the Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire (OLBPDQ). A descriptive ex-post facto design was used in the study. Pain clinics and neurosurgical units at three metropolitan hospitals. One hundred patients with chronic low back pain of noncancer origin were administered the two questionnaires as part of a larger questionnaire battery. Acceptable internal consistency values of 0.76 for the PDI and 0.71 for the OLBPDQ were obtained. A correlation of r = 0.63 was found between the PDI and the OLBPDQ, supporting the concurrent validity of the two scales. Both the scales were found to be correlated to the Beck Depression Inventory scores (PDI, r = 0.42; OLBPDQ, r = 0.39), with higher disability associated with greater depression. Only the total PDI score was found to be sensitive to functional status differences within the patient sample. These findings support other recent work in favor of the PDI. The PDI had a slightly higher internal consistency and was more sensitive than the OLBPDQ.

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.

Studying self-awareness in children: validation of the Questionnaire of Executive Functioning (QEF).

PubMed

Geurten, Marie; Catale, Corinne; Geurten, Claire; Wansard, Murielle; Meulemans, Thierry

2016-05-01

People with accurate representations of their own cognitive functioning (i.e. cognitive self-awareness) tend to use appropriate strategies to regulate their behavior. Due to the lack of appropriate instruments, few studies have examined the development of this ability among children. This study tested the measurement properties of the self-rating and other-rating forms of the Questionnaire of Executive Functioning (QEF), designed to tap children's knowledge of their executive functioning. Specifically, the construct, convergent, and discriminant validities were investigated and a self-other discrepancy score was computed to assess children's executive self-awareness. Participants were 317 children aged 7-14 years old. Confirmatory factor analyses carried out on the QEF confirmed the eight-factor structure of both versions. There were significant correlations between the QEF and the parent versions of the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function, the Dysexecutive Questionnaire for Children, and the Childhood Executive Functioning Inventory. Both forms of the QEF were able to distinguish between children who had sustained a traumatic brain injury (TBI) and control participants. A statistical difference was observed between the TBI and control groups on this score, suggesting that TBI may trigger self-awareness impairments in children. The good psychometric properties of the two forms of the QEF were established. Furthermore, results of the analyses carried out on the different discrepancy scores seem to indicate that the QEF could help clinicians to detect patients with self-awareness deficits.

Persistent Sleep Disturbances Independently Predict Poorer Functional and Social Outcomes 1 Year After Mild Traumatic Brain Injury.

PubMed

Chan, Lai Gwen; Feinstein, Anthony

2015-01-01

To investigate the effect of sleep disturbances on functional and social outcomes after mild traumatic brain injury. Outpatient traumatic brain injury clinic in a tertiary trauma center. A total of 374 mild traumatic brain injury patients were assessed within 3 months of injury and followed up every 3 months for 1 year. Analysis of a historical cohort in a naturalistic clinical setting. At each visit, symptoms of concussion and psychological distress and indices of functional and social outcomes were measured with the Rivermead Postconcussion Questionnaire, 28-item General Health Questionnaire, and Rivermead Head Injury Follow-up Questionnaire, respectively. Changes in outcome scores over time were explored using repeated measures analysis of variance and compared between subjects with persistent (SD) and recovered (SR) sleep disturbances. Predictors of functional/social outcome were determined using linear regression. The percentages of subjects reporting sleep disturbances at each time point were 71.9%, 57.2%, 55.1%, and 53.7%, respectively. For functional and social outcomes, significant effects of time (F3,315 = 9.54; P < .001), group (SD vs SR) F1,317 = 5.32; P = .022, and time X group interaction F3,315 = 4.14; P = .007 were found. Persistent sleep disturbance (P = 0.011) and higher symptom burden at 6 months postinjury (P < .0001) were independent predictors of poorer outcome. Sleep disturbance, independent of psychological distress, is an important prognostic factor of functional and social outcomes after mild traumatic brain injury.

[Health-related quality of life evaluation of elderly aged 65 years and over living at home].

PubMed

Jalenques, I; Auclair, C; Rondepierre, F; Gerbaud, L; Tourtauchaux, R

2015-06-01

To assess health-related quality of life in French adults aged 65 years and over, living at home, with a specific self-administered questionnaire, the LEIPAD, cross-culturally adapted in French. Elderly completed socio-demographic and medical questionnaires, a questionnaire about negative life events during the last 12 months and the LEIPAD. Data of 195 subjects (mean age: 72.6 years, men: 56.5%) were analyzed. The response rates to the LEIPAD scales were superior to 90%. Elderly reported on the whole a good health-related quality of life. Age had a negative effect on quality on life, which deteriorates over years. Age was correlated to the scales "Physical function", "Self-care", "Cognitive functioning" and "Sexual functioning". Elderly hospitalized in the last year had worse quality of life with a significant difference for "Physical function" scale. The number of health problems was positively correlated to "Physical function" scale. Elderly declaring at least one health problem had worse quality of life for this scale. Problems in couple, materials and financial problems had also negative effects on health-related quality of life. Our study highlights a good health-related quality of life for the majority of these adults aged 65 years and over, as well as the negative effect of age, health, couple, materials and financial problems on their quality of life. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Problematic Internet Usage and Immune Function.

PubMed

Reed, Phil; Vile, Rebecca; Osborne, Lisa A; Romano, Michela; Truzoli, Roberto

2015-01-01

Problematic internet use has been associated with a variety of psychological comorbidities, but it relationship with physical illness has not received the same degree of investigation. The current study surveyed 505 participants online, and asked about their levels of problematic internet usage (Internet Addiction Test), depression and anxiety (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scales), social isolation (UCLA Loneliness Questionnaire), sleep problems (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index), and their current health - General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28), and the Immune Function Questionnaire. The results demonstrated that around 30% of the sample displayed mild or worse levels of internet addiction, as measured by the IAT. Although there were differences in the purposes for which males and females used the internet, there were no differences in terms of levels of problematic usage between genders. The internet problems were strongly related to all of the other psychological variables such as depression, anxiety, social-isolation, and sleep problems. Internet addiction was also associated with reduced self-reported immune function, but not with the measure of general health (GHQ-28). This relationship between problematic internet use and reduced immune function was found to be independent of the impact of the co-morbidities. It is suggested that the negative relationship between level of problematic internet use and immune function may be mediated by levels of stress produced by such internet use, and subsequent sympathetic nervous activity, which related to immune-supressants, such as cortisol.

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SLEEP DISTURBANCE AND DEPRESSION, ANXIETY, AND FUNCTIONING IN COLLEGE STUDENTS

PubMed Central

Nyer, Maren; Farabaugh, Amy; Fehling, Kiki; Soskin, David; Holt, Daphne; Papakostas, George I.; Pedrelli, Paola; Fava, Maurizio; Pisoni, Angela; Vitolo, Ottavio; Mischoulon, David

2013-01-01

Background Sleep disturbance (SD) has complex associations with depression, both preceding and following the onset and recurrence of depression. We hypothesized that students with depressive symptoms with SD would demonstrate a greater burden of comorbid psychiatric symptoms and functional impairment compared to students with depressive symptoms without SD. Methods During a mental health screening, 287 undergraduate students endorsed symptoms of depression (Beck Depression Inventory [BDI] ≥ 13) and filled out the following self-report measures: demographic questionnaire, BDI, Anxiety Symptom Questionnaire—intensity and frequency (ASQ), Beck Hopelessness Scale (BHS), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Quality of Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction Questionnaire (QLESQ), and the Massachusetts General Hospital Cognitive and Physical Functioning Questionnaire (CPFQ). SD was measured using the BDI sleep item #16 dichotomized (score 0: no SD; or score > 0: some SD). Results Students with depressive symptoms and SD (n = 220), compared to those without SD (n = 67), endorsed significantly more intense and frequent anxiety and poorer cognitive and physical functioning. Students with depressive symptoms with and without SD did not significantly differ in depressive severity, hopelessness, or quality of life. Conclusions College students with depressive symptoms with SD may experience a greater burden of comorbid anxiety symptoms and hyperarousal, and may have impairments in functioning, compared to students with depressive symptoms without SD. These findings require replication. Depression and Anxiety 00:1–8, 2013. PMID:23681944

Problematic Internet Usage and Immune Function

PubMed Central

Reed, Phil; Vile, Rebecca; Osborne, Lisa A.; Romano, Michela; Truzoli, Roberto

2015-01-01

Problematic internet use has been associated with a variety of psychological comorbidities, but it relationship with physical illness has not received the same degree of investigation. The current study surveyed 505 participants online, and asked about their levels of problematic internet usage (Internet Addiction Test), depression and anxiety (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scales), social isolation (UCLA Loneliness Questionnaire), sleep problems (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index), and their current health – General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28), and the Immune Function Questionnaire. The results demonstrated that around 30% of the sample displayed mild or worse levels of internet addiction, as measured by the IAT. Although there were differences in the purposes for which males and females used the internet, there were no differences in terms of levels of problematic usage between genders. The internet problems were strongly related to all of the other psychological variables such as depression, anxiety, social-isolation, and sleep problems. Internet addiction was also associated with reduced self-reported immune function, but not with the measure of general health (GHQ-28). This relationship between problematic internet use and reduced immune function was found to be independent of the impact of the co-morbidities. It is suggested that the negative relationship between level of problematic internet use and immune function may be mediated by levels of stress produced by such internet use, and subsequent sympathetic nervous activity, which related to immune-supressants, such as cortisol. PMID:26244339

The predictive power of physical function assessed by questionnaire and physical performance measures for subsequent disability.

PubMed

Hoshi, Masayuki; Hozawa, Atsushi; Kuriyama, Shinichi; Nakaya, Naoki; Ohmori-Matsuda, Kaori; Sone, Toshimasa; Kakizaki, Masako; Niu, Kaijun; Fujita, Kazuki; Ueki, Shouzoh; Haga, Hiroshi; Nagatomi, Ryoichi; Tsuji, Ichiro

2012-08-01

To compare the predictive power of physical function assessed by questionnaire and physical performance measures for subsequent disability in community-dwelling elderly persons. Prospective cohort study. Participants were 813 aged 70 years and older, elderly Japanese residing in the community, included in the Tsurugaya Project, who were not disabled at the baseline in 2003. Physical function was assessed by the questionnaire of "Motor Fitness Scale". Physical performance measures consisted of maximum walking velocity, timed up and go test (TUG), leg extension power, and functional reach test. The area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic curve for disability was used to compare screening accuracy between Motor Fitness Scale and physical performance measures. Incident disability, defined as certification for long-term care insurance, was used as the endpoint. We observed 135 cases of incident disability during follow-up. The third or fourth quartile for each measure was associated with a significantly increased risk of disability in comparison with the highest quartile. The AUC was 0.70, 0.72, 0.70, 0.68, 0.69 and 0.74, for Motor Fitness Scale, maxi- mum walking velocity, TUG, leg extension power, functional reach test, and total performance score, respectively. The predictive power of physical function assessed by the Motor Fitness Scale was equivalent to that assessed by physical performance measures. Since Motor Fitness Scale can evaluate physical function safely and simply in comparison with physical performance tests, it would be a practical tool for screening persons at high risk of disability.

The relationship between patients' perception of the effects of neurofibromatosis type 2 and the domains of the Short Form-36.

PubMed

Neary, W J; Hillier, V F; Flute, T; Stephens, S D G; Ramsden, R T; Evans, D G R

2010-08-01

To investigate the relationship between those issues concerning quality of life in patients with neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) as identified by the closed set NF2 questionnaire and the eight norm-based measures and the physical component summary (PCS) and mental component summary (MCS) scores of the Short Form-36 (SF-36) Questionnaire. Postal questionnaire study. Questionnaires sent to subjects' home addresses. Eighty-seven adult subjects under the care of the Manchester Multidisciplinary NF2 Clinic were invited to participate. Sixty-two (71%) completed sets of closed set NF2 questionnaires and SF-36 questionnaires were returned. Subjects with NF2 scored less than the norm of 50 on both the physical component summary and mental component summary scores and the eight individual norm-based measures of the Short Form-36 questionnaire. Correlations (using Kendall's tau) were examined between patients' perceptions of their severity of difficulty with the following activities and the eight norm-based measures and the physical component summary and mental component summary scores of the Short Form-36 questionnaire: Communicating with spouse/significant other (N = 61). The correlation coefficients were significant at the 0.01 level for the mental component summary score, together with three of the norm-based scores [vitality (VT), social functioning and role emotional]. Social communication (N = 62). All 10 correlations were significant at the 0.01 or 0.001 level. Balance (N = 59). All 10 correlations were highly significant at the P < 0.001 level. Hearing difficulties (N = 61). All correlations were significant at either the 0.01 level or less apart from the mental component summary score and three of the norm-based scores (role physical, VT and mental health). Mood change (N = 61). All correlations were significant at the 0.01 level or less, apart from one norm-based score (role physical). The Short Form-36 questionnaire has allowed us to relate patients' perceptions of their difficulties, as identified by the closed set NF2 questionnaire, to the physical and mental domains measured by this validated and widely used scale, and has provided further insight into areas of functioning affected by NF2.

Validation of a Questionnaire to Screen for Shift Work Disorder

PubMed Central

Barger, Laura K.; Ogeil, Rowan P.; Drake, Christopher L.; O'Brien, Conor S.; Ng, Kim T.; Rajaratnam, Shantha M. W.

2012-01-01

Study Objective: At least 15% of the full-time work force is shift workers. Working during the overnight hours, early morning start times, and variable or rotating schedules present a challenge to the circadian system, and these shifts are associated with adverse health and safety consequences. Shift work disorder (SWD), a primary (circadian rhythm) sleep disorder indicated by excessive daytime sleepiness and/or insomnia associated with a shiftwork schedule, is under-recognized by primary care physicians. We sought to develop and validate a questionnaire to screen for high risk of SWD in a shift working population. Design: Shift workers completed a 26-item questionnaire and were evaluated by a sleep specialist (physician) who diagnosed them as either positive or negative for SWD. The physician assessment of SWD was guided by a flow chart that operationalized the ICSD-2 criteria for SWD. Setting: 18 sleep clinics in the USA. Patients or Participants: 311 shift workers. Interventions: Not applicable. Measurements and Results: Responses to the items in the questionnaire were entered into a series of discrimination function analyses to determine the diagnostic value of the items and the fewest number of questions with the best predictive value. The function was then cross-validated. A final 4-item questionnaire has 89% positive predictive value and 62% negative predictive value (sensitivity = 0.74; specificity = 0.82). Conclusions: This Shiftwork Disorder Screening Questionnaire may be appropriate for use in primary care settings to aid in the diagnosis of SWD. Citation: Barger LK; Ogeil RP; Drake CL; O'Brien CS; Ng KT; Rajaratnam SMW. Validation of a questionnaire to screen for shift work disorder. SLEEP 2012;35(12):1693–1703. PMID:23204612

Questionnaires for assessment of female sexual dysfunction: a review and proposal for a standardized screener.

PubMed

Giraldi, Annamaria; Rellini, Alessandra; Pfaus, James G; Bitzer, Johannes; Laan, Ellen; Jannini, Emmanuele A; Fugl-Meyer, Axel R

2011-10-01

There are many methods to evaluate female sexual function and dysfunction (FSD) in clinical and research settings, including questionnaires, structured interviews, and detailed case histories. Of these, questionnaires have become an easy first choice to screen individuals into different categories of FSD. The aim of this study was to review the strengths and weaknesses of different questionnaires currently available to assess different dimensions of women's sexual function and dysfunction, and to suggest a simple screener for FSD. A literature search of relevant databases, books, and articles in journals was used to identify questionnaires that have been used in basic or epidemiological research, clinical trials, or in clinical settings. Measures were grouped in four levels based on their purposes and degree of development, and were reviewed for their psychometric properties and utility in clinical or research settings. A Sexual Complaints Screener for Women (SCS-W) was then proposed based on epidemiological methods. Although many questionnaires are adequate for their own purposes, our review revealed a serious lack of standardized, internationally (culturally) acceptable questionnaires that are truly epidemiologically validated in general populations and that can be used to assess FSD in women with or without a partner and independent of the partner's gender. The SCS-W is proposed as a 10-item screener to aid clinicians in making a preliminary assessment of FSD. The definition of FSD continues to change and basic screening tools are essential to help advance clinical diagnosis and treatment, or to slate patients adequately into the right diagnostic categories for basic and epidemiological research or clinical trials. © 2011 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

Psychometric qualities of questionnaires for the assessment of otitis media impact.

PubMed

Timmerman, A A; Meesters, C M G; Speyer, R; Anteunis, L J C

2007-12-01

The assessment of impact and evaluation of treatment effects in chronic otitis media (OM) calls for a much broader approach than just examining the presence of middle ear effusion or hearing loss. It is increasingly recognised that this condition may result in a comprised quality of life. Several studies have used proxy completed questionnaires to objectify the illness experience associated with chronic OM. To review questionnaires which have been developed to describe the effects of chronic OM on the daily functioning of children. Psychometric properties have been evaluated, in addition to discriminative and evaluative qualities. A systematic review of publications pertaining to developed questionnaires related with chronic OM. Systematic literature searches of PubMed (1966-January 2007) and EMBASE (1989-January 2007) were conducted, supplemented by using free text words to identify publications after January 2005. The included 15 questionnaires were developed for children with recurrent or persistent OM, describing functional health status (FHS), while two questionnaires also evaluate the effect of tympanostomy tubes insertion. The questionnaires generally cover six impact areas (physical symptoms, child development, educational performance, emotional/practical burden and general health status) with physical symptoms being the most prominant. The OM8-30, OMO-22 and OM-6 adequately reflect the multidimensional aspects of FHS in chronic OM. The OMO-22 and OM8-30 show the best psychometric properties for the discrimination of impact severity between children, while the OM-6 was found to have the best qualities for the evaluation of clinical change. Clinical applicability is crucial for the assessment of FHS in chronic OM, but requires a trade-off with necessary psychometric properties.

Can radiological results be surrogate markers of functional outcome in distal radial extra-articular fractures?

PubMed

Kumar, Skand; Penematsa, Subbaraju; Sadri, Maziar; Deshmukh, Subodh C

2008-08-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between radiological and functional results in patients with extra-articular fractures of the distal radius. We conducted a prospective study of radiological and functional assessment in 95 consecutively selected extra-articular distal radius fractures. There were two patient groups: more than 60 and less than 60 years of age. The final fracture union radiographs were analysed for their functional outcome using the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ) and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire. In patients with acceptable radiological results, 62% (MHQ group) and 72% (DASH group) of patients had satisfactory functional outcome. Analysing patients with satisfactory functional results, 56% (MHQ group) and 59% (DASH group) had satisfactory radiological results. There was a higher proportion of patients with better functional results, despite poor radiological results, in both of the age groups. There was a statistically significant correlation between satisfactory radial tilt and functional outcome in the younger patients. In the older age group, patients with satisfactory radiological results had satisfactory functional outcome (p<0.05). However, in the older age group, satisfactory functional results were achieved, despite unsatisfactory radiological results.

Assessing the equivalence of Web-based and paper-and-pencil questionnaires using differential item and test functioning (DIF and DTF) analysis: a case of the Four-Dimensional Symptom Questionnaire (4DSQ).

PubMed

Terluin, Berend; Brouwers, Evelien P M; Marchand, Miquelle A G; de Vet, Henrica C W

2018-05-01

Many paper-and-pencil (P&P) questionnaires have been migrated to electronic platforms. Differential item and test functioning (DIF and DTF) analysis constitutes a superior research design to assess measurement equivalence across modes of administration. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate an item response theory (IRT)-based DIF and DTF analysis to assess the measurement equivalence of a Web-based version and the original P&P format of the Four-Dimensional Symptom Questionnaire (4DSQ), measuring distress, depression, anxiety, and somatization. The P&P group (n = 2031) and the Web group (n = 958) consisted of primary care psychology clients. Unidimensionality and local independence of the 4DSQ scales were examined using IRT and Yen's Q3. Bifactor modeling was used to assess the scales' essential unidimensionality. Measurement equivalence was assessed using IRT-based DIF analysis using a 3-stage approach: linking on the latent mean and variance, selection of anchor items, and DIF testing using the Wald test. DTF was evaluated by comparing expected scale scores as a function of the latent trait. The 4DSQ scales proved to be essentially unidimensional in both modalities. Five items, belonging to the distress and somatization scales, displayed small amounts of DIF. DTF analysis revealed that the impact of DIF on the scale level was negligible. IRT-based DIF and DTF analysis is demonstrated as a way to assess the equivalence of Web-based and P&P questionnaire modalities. Data obtained with the Web-based 4DSQ are equivalent to data obtained with the P&P version.

Measurement Properties of the Persian Translated Version of Graves Orbitopathy Quality of Life Questionnaire: A Validation Study.

PubMed

Kashkouli, Mohsen Bahmani; Karimi, Nasser; Aghamirsalim, Mohamadreza; Abtahi, Mohammad Bagher; Nojomi, Marzieh; Shahrad-Bejestani, Hadi; Salehi, Masoud

2017-02-01

To determine the measurement properties of the Persian language version of the Graves orbitopathy quality of life questionnaire (GO-QOL). Following a systematic translation and cultural adaptation process, 141 consecutive unselected thyroid eye disease (TED) patients answered the Persian GO-QOL and underwent complete ophthalmic examination. The questionnaire was again completed by 60 patients on the second visit, 2-4 weeks later. Construct validity (cross-cultural validity, structural validity and hypotheses testing), reliability (internal consistency and test-retest reliability), and floor and ceiling effects of the Persian version of the GO-QOL were evaluated. Furthermore, Rasch analysis was used to assess its psychometric properties. Cross-cultural validity was established by back-translation techniques, committee review and pretesting techniques. Bi-dimensionality of the questionnaire was confirmed by factor analysis. Construct validity was also supported through confirmation of 6 out of 8 predefined hypotheses. Cronbach's α and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) were 0.650 and 0.859 for visual functioning and 0.875 and 0.896 for appearance subscale, respectively. Mean quality of life (QOL) scores for visual functioning and appearance were 78.18 (standard deviation, SD, 21.57) and 56.25 (SD 26.87), respectively. Person reliabilities from the Rasch rating scale model for both visual functioning and appearance revealed an acceptable internal consistency for the Persian GO-QOL. The Persian GO-QOL questionnaire is a valid and reliable tool with good psychometric properties in evaluation of Persian-speaking patients with TED. Applying Rasch analysis to future versions of the GO-QOL is recommended in order to perform tests for linearity between the estimated item measures in different versions.

[Functional assessment of patients with vertigo and dizziness in occupational medicine].

PubMed

Zamysłowska-Szmytke, Ewa; Szostek-Rogula, Sylwia; Śliwińska-Kowalska, Mariola

2018-03-09

Balance assessment relies on symptoms, clinical examination and functional assessment and their verification in objective tests. Our study was aimed at calculating the assessment compatibility between questionnaires, functional scales and objective vestibular and balance examinations. A group of 131 patients (including 101 women; mean age: 59±14 years) of the audiology outpatient clinic was examined. Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, phobic vertigo and central dizziness were the most common diseases observed in the study group. Patients' symptoms were tested using the questionnaire on Cawthworne-Cooksey exercises (CC), Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) and Duke Anxiety-Depression Scale. Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Dynamic Gait Index (DGI), the Tinetti test, Timed Up and Go test (TUG), and Dynamic Visual Acuity (DVA) were used for the functional balance assessment. Objective evaluation included: videonystagmography caloric test and static posturography. The study results revealed statistically significant but moderate compatibility between functional tests BBS, DGI, TUG, DVA and caloric results (Kendall's W = 0.29) and higher for posturography (W = 0.33). The agreement between questionnaires and objective tests were very low (W = 0.08-0.11).The positive predictive values of BBS were 42% for caloric and 62% for posturography tests, of DGI - 46% and 57%, respectively. The results of functional tests (BBS, DGI, TUG, DVA) revealed statistically significant correlations with objective balance tests but low predictive values did not allow to use these tests in vestibular damage screening. Only half of the patients with functional disturbances revealed abnormal caloric or posturography tests. The qualification to work based on objective tests ignore functional state of the worker, which may influence the ability to work. Med Pr 2018;69(2):179-189. This work is available in Open Access model and licensed under a CC BY-NC 3.0 PL license.

Organizational environment of outpatient drug treatment services in Hungary: a pilot study.

PubMed

Gazdag, Gábor; Ungvari, Gabor S; Rozália, Takács; Rácz, József

2012-12-01

Organizations engaged in drug addiction treatment started their activities only recently in Hungary. This paper examines the organisational environment in drug outpatient treatment using the example of Blue Point Foundation (BPF), a non-governmental organization (NGO). The authors describe BPF's organizational structure and functioning related to its effectiveness. BPF staff members anonymously completed a 59-item questionnaire about its organizational characteristics and functioning. The questionnaire covered demographic data, 50 items of the Quality Control questionnaire and a SWOT (Strengths, Weakness, Opportunities, Threats) analysis. Policy and strategy were considered BPF's best feature, while the management of funds received the lowest rating. The assessment of the staff and that of the organization as a whole was closer to the midpoint of the scale. High risk of staff burnout and unstable organizational environment are the most important threats on the NGOs working in addictology in Hungary.

A Data-Driven Approach to Reverse Engineering Customer Engagement Models: Towards Functional Constructs

PubMed Central

de Vries, Natalie Jane; Carlson, Jamie; Moscato, Pablo

2014-01-01

Online consumer behavior in general and online customer engagement with brands in particular, has become a major focus of research activity fuelled by the exponential increase of interactive functions of the internet and social media platforms and applications. Current research in this area is mostly hypothesis-driven and much debate about the concept of Customer Engagement and its related constructs remains existent in the literature. In this paper, we aim to propose a novel methodology for reverse engineering a consumer behavior model for online customer engagement, based on a computational and data-driven perspective. This methodology could be generalized and prove useful for future research in the fields of consumer behaviors using questionnaire data or studies investigating other types of human behaviors. The method we propose contains five main stages; symbolic regression analysis, graph building, community detection, evaluation of results and finally, investigation of directed cycles and common feedback loops. The ‘communities’ of questionnaire items that emerge from our community detection method form possible ‘functional constructs’ inferred from data rather than assumed from literature and theory. Our results show consistent partitioning of questionnaire items into such ‘functional constructs’ suggesting the method proposed here could be adopted as a new data-driven way of human behavior modeling. PMID:25036766

A data-driven approach to reverse engineering customer engagement models: towards functional constructs.

PubMed

de Vries, Natalie Jane; Carlson, Jamie; Moscato, Pablo

2014-01-01

Online consumer behavior in general and online customer engagement with brands in particular, has become a major focus of research activity fuelled by the exponential increase of interactive functions of the internet and social media platforms and applications. Current research in this area is mostly hypothesis-driven and much debate about the concept of Customer Engagement and its related constructs remains existent in the literature. In this paper, we aim to propose a novel methodology for reverse engineering a consumer behavior model for online customer engagement, based on a computational and data-driven perspective. This methodology could be generalized and prove useful for future research in the fields of consumer behaviors using questionnaire data or studies investigating other types of human behaviors. The method we propose contains five main stages; symbolic regression analysis, graph building, community detection, evaluation of results and finally, investigation of directed cycles and common feedback loops. The 'communities' of questionnaire items that emerge from our community detection method form possible 'functional constructs' inferred from data rather than assumed from literature and theory. Our results show consistent partitioning of questionnaire items into such 'functional constructs' suggesting the method proposed here could be adopted as a new data-driven way of human behavior modeling.

[Development and validation of an inventory of ego functions and self regulation (Hannover Self-Regulation Inventory, HSRI)].

PubMed

Jäger, B; Schmid-Ott, G; Ernst, G; Dölle-Lange, E; Sack, M

2012-06-01

The aim of this study was to construct and validate a short self-rating questionnaire for the assessment of ego functions and ability of self regulation. An item pool of 120 items covering 6 postulated dimensions was reduced by two steps in independent samples (n = 136 + 470) via factor and item analyses to the final version consisting of 35 items. The 5 resulting questionnaire scales "interpersonal disturbances", "frustration tolerance and impulse control", "identity disturbances", "affect differentiation and affect tolerance" and "self-esteem" were well interpretable and showed in confirmatory factor analysis the best fit to the data (CHI²/df = 3.48; RMSEA = 0.73). Total scores were found to differentiate well between diagnostic groups of patients with more or less ego pathology (FANOVA = 9.8; df = 11; p < 0.001), thus proving good concurrent validity. Reliability was shown by testing internal consistency and test-retest correlations. The "Hannover self-regulation questionnaire" (HSRQ) evidently is an appropriate and reliable screening instrument in order to assess ego functions and capacities of self regulation in an economic and user-friendly means. The scale structure allows differentiated diagnostics of weak vs. stable ego functions and may be used for detailed therapy planning. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

A low-cost video game applied for training of upper extremity function in children with cerebral palsy: a pilot study.

PubMed

Jannink, Michiel J A; van der Wilden, Gelske J; Navis, Dorine W; Visser, Gerben; Gussinklo, Jeanine; Ijzerman, Maarten

2008-02-01

The aim of the present study was to determine the user satisfaction of the EyeToy for the training of the upper limb in children with cerebral palsy (CP). User satisfaction was measured in 12 children with CP, using a postexperience questionnaire, primarily based on a presence questionnaire. In general, children with CP were satisfied with and motivated by the EyeToy training. In addition, a first evaluation study was performed to determine the effect of this training method on the upper limb function. Ten children with CP were randomly assigned to the intervention (mean age 11 years, 9 months; SD 2,3) and the control group (mean age 12 years, 3 months; SD 3,2). After a treatment period of 6 weeks, the intervention group completed a user satisfaction questionnaire. Functional outcome was measured using the Melbourne Assessment scores. Percentage scores of the Melbourne Assessment of 7 of the 10 children were the same or changed only 1% to 2% from baseline to followup. However, in the experimental group, two children improved more, 9% and 13% respectively. In conclusion, it can be said that the EyeToy is a motivational training tool for the training of children with CP and has the potential to improve upper extremity function.

Higher mobility scores in patients with cystic fibrosis are associated with better lung function.

PubMed

Thobani, Aneesha; Alvarez, Jessica A; Blair, Shaina; Jackson, Kaila; Gottlieb, Eric R; Walker, Seth; Tangpricha, Vin

2015-01-01

The purpose of this study was to determine whether mobility and physical activity were associated with lung function in adults with cystic fibrosis (CF). This was a prospective cohort observational study in an urban, academic, specialized care center. Participants were ambulatory, nonhospitalized adults with CF. Mobility was assessed monthly by the Life-Space Assessment (LSA) questionnaire and quarterly by pedometer. Lung function was assessed by spirometry. Twenty-seven subjects participated. Subjects recorded mean pedometer steps of 20,213 ± 11,331 over three days and FEV1% predicted of 77.48% ± 22.60% over one year. The LSA score at enrollment was correlated with initial pedometer steps (r = 0.42 and P = 0.03), and mean LSA score over one year was correlated with mean number of steps (r = 0.51 and P = 0.007). LSA mobility and pedometer scores were correlated with FEV1% predicted at enrollment and throughout the study. Mobility and physical activity measured by LSA questionnaire and pedometer are positively associated with lung function in adults with CF. This study confirms the importance of mobility and physical activity and supports the utility of a simple office-based questionnaire as a measure of mobility in adults with CF.

Differential Effects of Incentives on Response Error, Response Rate, and Reliability of a Mailed Questionnaire.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brown, Darine F.; Hartman, Bruce

1980-01-01

Investigated issues associated with stimulating increased return rates to a mail questionnaire among school counselors. Results show that as the number of incentives received increased, the return rates increased in a linear fashion. The incentives did not introduce response error or affect the reliability of the Counselor Function Inventory.…

Using Multidimensional Rasch Analysis to Validate the Chinese Version of the Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire (MSLQ-CV)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lee, John Chi-Kin; Zhang, Zhonghua; Yin, Hongbiao

2010-01-01

This article used the multidimensional random coefficients multinomial logit model to examine the construct validity and detect the substantial differential item functioning (DIF) of the Chinese version of motivated strategies for learning questionnaire (MSLQ-CV). A total of 1,354 Hong Kong junior high school students were administered the…

An Application of the Revised "Lecturer Self-Efficacy Questionnaire": An Evidence-Based Route for Initiating Transformational Change

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sharp, John G.; Hemmings, Brian; Kay, Russell; Callinan, Carol

2013-01-01

This article presents findings arising from the first UK application of a revised 70-item lecturer self-efficacy questionnaire recently developed for use in the Australian higher education context. Intended to probe and systematically measure confidence in the core functions of research, teaching and other academic or service-related activities…

Assessment of Dietary Intakes of Filipino-Americans: Implications for Food Frequency Questionnaire Design

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Johnson-Kozlow, Marilyn; Matt, Georg E.; Rock, Cheryl L.; de la Rosa, Ruth; Conway, Terry L.; Romero, Romina A.

2011-01-01

Objective: The purpose of this study was to describe food consumption practices of Filipino-American adults, to describe how they respond to a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) as a function of acculturation and sex, and to suggest modifications to the FFQ to improve dietary assessment among Filipino-Americans. Methods: Twenty-one…

Attribute Ratings and Profiles of the Job Elements of the Position Analysis Questionnaire (PAQ).

DTIC Science & Technology

Questionnaire ( PAQ ). A secondary purpose was to explore the reliability of job-related ratings as a function of the number of raters. A taxonomy of 76...human attributes was used, and ratings of the relevance of these attributes to each of the PAQ job elements were obtained. A minimum of 8 raters and

Associated factors with functional disability and health-related quality of life in Chinese patients with gout: a case-control study.

PubMed

Fu, Ting; Cao, Haixia; Yin, Rulan; Zhang, Lijuan; Zhang, Qiuxiang; Li, Liren; Gu, Zhifeng

2017-11-03

Gout is a painful, inflammatory disease that may cause decreased function and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Limited study did not take the influence of gout characteristics and anxiety on HRQoL into consideration and there are no studies associated with functional disability in individuals with gout from China. This study aims to investigate the related factors of functional disability and HRQoL in gout patients recruited from China. A total of 226 consecutive gout patients and 232 age- and gender-matched healthy individuals were involved in the study. A series of questionnaires (the Short Form 36 health survey, the Patient Health Questionnaire, the Generalized Anxiety Disorder questionnaire, the 10 cm Visual Analog Scale, and the Health Assessment Questionnaire-Disability Index) were applied. Blood samples were taken to examine the level of serum uric acid. Independent samples t-tests, Chi square tests, U test, Spearman rank correlation, logistic regression modeling, and linear regression were used to analyze the data. After adjusted demographic variables, individuals with gout have poorer HRQoL compared to healthy controls. Univariate tests presented that patients with functional disability had longer disease duration, more frequent flares/last year, more severe total pain, more number of tophi, higher degree of depression and anxiety, with a trend toward diabetes, the treatment of colchicine and corticosteroids use, compared to patients without functional disability. Meanwhile, place of residence, hypertension, DM, disease duration, cardiovascular disease, number of flares/last year, total pain, more number of tophi, presence of tender joints, depression, anxiety, currently using colchicine and corticosteroids were correlated significantly with HRQoL. Additionally, multiple regression analysis identified severe pain, depression, and colchicine use as predictors of functional disability. Cardiovascular disease, total pain, number of flares/last year, presence of tender joints, depression, anxiety, colchicine and corticosteroids use contributed to low HRQoL. After adjusted demographic variables, gout subjects have poorer HRQoL compared to healthy controls. Chinese gout population experiencing poor HRQoL and functional disability were likely to suffer from gout-related features and psychological problems. The results underscore the need of effective interventions including psychological nursing and appropriate treatment approaches to reduce their functional disability and improve their HRQoL.

Development and Validation of a Questionnaire for the Assessment of Pelvic Floor Disorders and Their Risk Factors During Pregnancy and Post Partum.

PubMed

Metz, Melanie; Junginger, Bärbel; Henrich, Wolfgang; Baeßler, Kaven

2017-04-01

Introduction The aim of this study was to develop and validate a questionnaire for the assessment of pelvic floor disorders, their symptoms and risk factors in pregnancy and after birth including symptom course, severity and impact on quality of life. Methods The validated German pelvic floor questionnaire was modified and a new risk factor domain developed. The questionnaire was initially completed by 233 nulliparous women in the third trimester of pregnancy and at six weeks (n = 148) and one year (n = 120) post partum. Full pyschometric testing was performed. The clinical course of symptoms and the influence of risk factors were analysed. Results Study participants had a median age of 31 (19-46) years. 63 % had spontaneous vaginal deliveries, 15 % operative vaginal deliveries and 22 % were delivered by caesarean section. Content validity: Missing answers never exceeded 4 %. Construct validity: The questionnaire distinguished significantly between women who reported bothersome symptoms and those who did not. Reliability: Cronbach's alpha values exceeded 0.7 for bladder, bowel and support function, and 0.65 for sexual function. The test-retest analysis showed moderate to almost complete concordance. The intraclass coefficients for domain scores (between 0.732 and 0.818) were in acceptable to optimal range. Reactivity: The questionnaire was able to track changes significantly with good effect size for each domain. Risk factors for pelvic floor symptoms included familial predisposition, maternal age over 35 years, BMI above 25, nicotine abuse, subjective inability to voluntarily contract the pelvic floor musculature and postpartum wound pain. Conclusion This pelvic floor questionnaire proved to be valid, reliable and reactive for the assessment of pelvic floor disorders, their risk factors, incidence and impact on quality of life during pregnancy and post partum. The questionnaire can be utilised to assess the course of symptoms and treatment effects using a scoring system.

Cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the Patient-Rated Tennis Elbow Evaluation Questionnaire on lateral elbow tendinopathy for French-speaking patients.

PubMed

Kaux, Jean-François; Delvaux, François; Schaus, Jean; Demoulin, Christophe; Locquet, Médéa; Buckinx, Fanny; Beaudart, Charlotte; Dardenne, Nadia; Van Beveren, Julien; Croisier, Jean-Louis; Forthomme, Bénédicte; Bruyère, Olivier

Translation and validation of algo-functional questionnaire. The lateral elbow tendinopathy is a common injury in tennis players and physical workers. The Patient-Rated Tennis Elbow Evaluation (PRTEE) Questionnaire was specifically designed to measure pain and functional limitations in patients with lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow). First developed in English, this questionnaire has since been translated into several languages. The aims of the study were to translate and cross-culturally adapt the PRTEE questionnaire into French and to evaluate the reliability and validity of this translated version of the questionnaire (PRTEE-F). The PRTEE was translated and cross-culturally adapted into French according to international guidelines. To assess the reliability and validity of the PRTEE-F, 115 participants were asked twice to fill in the PRTEE-F, and once the Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand Questionnaire (DASH) and the Short Form Health Survey (SF-36). Internal consistency (using Cronbach's alpha), test-retest reliability (using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard error of measurement and minimal detectable change), and convergent and divergent validity (using the Spearman's correlation coefficients respectively with the DASH and with some subscales of the SF-36) were assessed. The PRTEE was translated into French without any problems. PRTEE-F showed a good test-retest reliability for the overall score (ICC 0.86) and for each item (ICC 0.8-0.96) and a high internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.98). The correlation analyses revealed high correlation coefficients between PRTEE-F and DASH (convergent validity) and, as expected, a low or moderate correlation with the divergent subscales of the SF-36 (discriminant validity). There was no floor or ceiling effect. The PRTEE questionnaire was successfully cross-culturally adapted into French. The PRTEE-F is reliable and valid for evaluating French-speaking patients with lateral elbow tendinopathy. Copyright © 2016 Hanley & Belfus. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Impact of oral rehabilitation on patients with head and neck cancer: A study using the Liverpool Oral Rehabilitation Questionnaire and the Oral Health Impact Profile-14.

PubMed

Dholam, Kanchan P; Dugad, Jinesh A; Sadashiva, Karthik M

2017-04-01

The treatment of oral cancers affects oral functions and quality of life (QOL). Dental rehabilitation is a major step toward enhancing quality of life after controlling the disease. The effects of the disease, treatment, and rehabilitation need to be evaluated to assess oral health-related QOL. The Liverpool Oral Rehabilitation Questionnaire version 3 (LORQv3) and Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14) are specific assessment questionnaires of oral rehabilitation. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of oral rehabilitation on patients with head and neck cancer by using the LORQv3 and OHIP-14 questionnaires and to discover and document specific patient-derived problems related to the issues of oral rehabilitation. The LORQv3 and OHIP-14 questionnaires were administered to 60 participants with oral cancer, who were in need of oral rehabilitation. They were asked to rate their dental problems on a Likert scale before fabrication of their prostheses (baseline) and at the 3-month follow-up visit after prosthetic rehabilitation. Paired comparison was done using the Wilcoxon signed rank test according to the distribution, and Cronbach alpha was used to assess internal consistency. Subscale scores were determined by mean value (α=.05). For the LORQv3 questionnaire, a 10% to 27% improvement was found in the domain of oral function, and a 20% improvement in orofacial appearance, with improvement in patient satisfaction with the prosthesis. Using the OHIP-14 questionnaire, a 45% to 67% improvement was generally seen in all domains. After assessment using the LORQv3 and OHIP-14 questionnaires, prosthetic rehabilitation was seen to contribute to the betterment of patients with head and neck cancer. Copyright © 2016 Editorial Council for the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[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.

Adaptation and validation of the Tower of London test of planning and problem solving in people with intellectual disabilities.

PubMed

Masson, J D; Dagnan, D; Evans, J

2010-05-01

There is a need for validated, standardised tools for the assessment of executive functions in adults with intellectual disabilities (ID). This study examines the validity of a test of planning and problem solving (Tower of London) with adults with ID. Participants completed an adapted version of the Tower of London (ToL) while day-centre staff completed adaptive function (Adaptive Behaviour Scale - Residential and Community: Second Edition, modified version) and dysexecutive function (DEX-Independent Rater) questionnaires for each participant. Correlation analyses of test and questionnaire variables were undertaken. The adapted ToL has a robust structure and shows significant associations with independent living skills, challenging behaviour and behaviours related to dysexecutive function. The adapted ToL is a valid test for use with people with ID. However, there is also a need to develop other ecologically valid tools based on everyday planning tasks undertaken by people with ID.

[Analysis of variability of cardiac rhythm and sexual function in men with arterial hypertension during therapy with biosporolol and nebivolol].

PubMed

Nurmamedova, G S; Mustafaev, I I

2012-01-01

The aim of the work was to study effect of bisoprolol and nebivolol therapy on the sexual function of men with AH. 20 men aged 35-55 (48 +/- 3.5) yr with grade I and II AH received either drug for 2 months. Cardiac rhythm variability (CRV) was estimated in the end of the 4-week placebo period and after 2-month monotherapy. Dopplerography of penile arteries and a questionnaire study (as described by Vasilchenko) were conducted. Both drugs significantly increased the tone of the parasympathetic component of the vegetative nervous system, improved systolic blood flow in cavernous and dorsal arteries. The questionnaire study failed to revel significant changes of the sexual function. It is concluded that biosporolol and nebivolol did not compromise the sexual function of men with AH; they improve spectral CRV characteristics and blood flow in cavernous arteries.

The long-term effects of radiation therapy on patients with ovarian dysgerminoma

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

Mitchell, M.F.; Gershenson, D.M.; Soeters, R.P.

A retrospective chart review and questionnaire study was undertaken to look at the long-term effects of radiation therapy in ovarian dysgerminoma patients. Forty-three patients and 55 controls responded to a questionnaire that detailed bowel, bladder, thyroid, menstrual, reproductive, sexual, and growth function. Statistically significant differences in the number of bowel movements were noticed when comparing patients with controls. The authors noticed no significant differences between cases and controls in bladder function. No thyroid disorders were attributable to mediastinal radiation therapy. Most patients with intact uteri bleed monthly on hormonal replacement. Three patients with a remaining ovary and uterus resumed menstrualmore » function after substantial doses of abdominopelvic radiation therapy. No patients have conceived. The authors noticed a slight increase in dyspareunia in the treated group, but most patients were satisfied with their sexual function. One premenarchal patient exhibited a growth disorder.« less

Functional chest pain responds to biofeedback treatment but functional heartburn does not: what is the difference?

PubMed

Shapiro, Michael; Shanani, Ram; Taback, Hanna; Abramowich, Dov; Scapa, Eitan; Broide, Efrat

2012-06-01

Patients with functional esophageal disorders represent a challenging treatment group. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of biofeedback in the treatment of patients with functional esophageal disorders. In this prospective study, patients with typical/atypical symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease underwent upper endoscopy and 24-h pH monitoring. All patients filled out gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Symptom, Hospital Anxiety and Depression, and Symptom Stress Rating questionnaires. Patients with functional heartburn and those with functional chest pain were offered biofeedback treatment. A global assessment questionnaire was filled out at the end of treatment and then 2.8 (range 1-4) years later. From January 2006 to December 2009, 22 patients with functional esophageal diseases were included in the study. Thirteen had functional heartburn and nine had functional chest pain. Six patients from each group received biofeedback treatment. After treatment for 1-4 years, patients with functional chest pain showed significant improvements in symptoms compared with those who were not treated. Patients with functional heartburn showed no improvement. Patients with functional chest pain had a longer time of esophageal acid exposure than those with functional heartburn. Patients with functional chest pain have different central and intraesophageal factors associated with symptom generation in comparison with patients with functional heartburn. Biofeedback is a useful tool in the treatment of patients with functional chest pain, but not for those with functional heartburn.

The Relationship Between Sexual Function and Quality of Sleep in Caregiving Mothers of Sons with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

PubMed Central

Nozoe, Karen T; Hachul, Helena; Hirotsu, Camila; Polesel, Daniel N; Moreira, Gustavo A; Tufik, Sergio; Andersen, Monica L

2014-01-01

Introduction The task of the caregiver, especially a caregiving mother of a son with a chronic and fatal disease, may interfere with their quality of sleep, sexuality, and some hormone levels. Aim The aim of this study was to evaluate the sexual function and the quality of sleep of caregiving mothers of sons with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Methods We evaluated 20 caregiving mothers of sons with DMD and 20 caregiving mothers of sons without any neuromuscular or chronic disease. All of them voluntarily responded to the evaluating questionnaires about their sexuality and their quality of sleep, and gave blood samples to evaluate their hormonal levels. Main Outcome Measures All mothers were evaluated using the questionnaire of Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and the Pittsburgh questionnaire (PSQI). The blood samples were tested to determine serum levels of testosterone, estradiol, follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, progesterone, adrenocorticotropic hormone, and cortisol. Results Caregiving mothers of sons with DMD had significantly lower scores in the FSFI questionnaire, suggesting a higher risk for sexual dysfunction. The PSQI demonstrated that these caregiving mothers present increased sleep latency, reduced sleep efficiency, daytime dysfunction, and poor sleep quality. Blood tests showed a rise in cortisol levels, which correlated with the compromised sexuality and quality of sleep. Conclusions This study indicates that caregiving mothers of sons with DMD show major risk for sexual dysfunction and a reduction in their quality of sleep mediated in part by the hormonal changes related to stress. Nozoe KT, Hachul H, Hirotsu C, Polesel DN, Moreira GA, Tufik S, and Andersen ML. The relationship between sexual function and quality of sleep in caregiving mothers of sons with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Sex Med 2014;2:133–140. PMID:25356310

Using the ICF to develop the capability-oriented database of persons with disabilities: a case study in Nakornpanom province, Thailand.

PubMed

Tongsiri, Sirinart; Riewpaiboon, Wachara

2013-06-01

This study aims to determine functioning information, rehabilitation needs, and environmental barriers of persons with disabilities (PWDs) using a developed ICF-based questionnaire with community survey approach in Thailand. A systematic review of the use of ICF and disability surveys from January 2000- June 2010 was undertaken. A questionnaire was then developed and tested in two pilot studies before using in a face-to-face interview conducted with legally registered PWDs in Nakornpanom province. Forty-six ICF codes were used in the questionnaire; two second-level codes in body functions, 18 second-level and six third-level codes in activities & participation and 14 second-level and six third-level codes in environmental factors. Each code had 2-6 qualifiers. One thousand and seven PWDs (56.6% male, mean age = 48.4 ± 0.64 years) were interviewed by 16 trained-interviewers. Interview duration was approximately 17 min. The functioning profile could be revealed for both individual and population. These reflected the need for rehabilitation. Several cut-off points to identify "disabled persons" were offered. Regarding participation, PWDs were concerned more about environmental barriers. One-fourth of PWDs needed home environment adaptation, almost 13% were uneducated and 23% had limited chance to participate in social activities. ICF framework and codes can be used to develop a questionnaire to measure population functioning profile and rehabilitation needs of PWDs by community survey. Results can be used to develop a capability-oriented disability database to identify prevalence of disabilities and rehabilitation needs. Policy makers may use this database to plan, monitor and evaluate rehabilitation service programs and removal of environmental barriers.

Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Measurement Properties of the Brazilian Portuguese Version of the Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment-Achilles (VISA-A) Questionnaire.

PubMed

de Mesquita, Gabriel Nunes; de Oliveira, Marcela Nicácio Medeiros; Matoso, Amanda Ellen Rodrigues; Filho, Alberto Galvão de Moura; de Oliveira, Rodrigo Ribeiro

2018-04-24

Study Design Clinical measurement study. Background Achilles tendon disorders are very common among athletes and it is important to objectively measure symptoms and functional limitations related to Achilles tendinopathy using outcome measures that have been validated in the language of the target population. Objectives To perform a cross-cultural adaptation and to evaluate the measurement properties of the Brazilian version of the Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment-Achilles (VISA-A) questionnaire. Methods We adapted the VISA-A questionnaire to Brazilian Portuguese (VISA-A-Br). The questionnaire was applied on 2 occasions with an interval of 5 to 14 days. We evaluated the following measurement properties: internal consistency, test-retest reliability, measurement error, construct validity, and ceiling and floor effects. Results The VISA-A-Br showed good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.79; after excluding 1 item at a time, Cronbach's α = 0.73 to 0.84), good test-retest reliability (ICC agreement2,1 = 0.84, 95% confidence interval = 0.71-0.91), an acceptable measurement error (standard error of measurement = 3.25 points and Smallest Detectable Change= 9.02 points), good construct validity (Spearman's coefficient with LEFS= 0.73 and FAOS in its 5 subscales; Pain= 0.66, other Symptoms=0.48, Function in daily living (ADL)= 0.59, Function in sport and recreation=0.67, and foot and ankle-related Quality of Life = 0.7), and no ceiling and floor effects. Conclusion The VISA-A-Br is equivalent to the original version; it has been validated and confirmed as reliable to measure pain and function among the Brazilian population with Achilles tendinopathy, and it can be used in clinical and scientific settings. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther, Epub 24 Apr 2018. doi:10.2519/jospt.2018.7897.

Monovision correction for small-angle diplopia.

PubMed

Bujak, Matthew C; Leung, Andrea K; Kisilevsky, Mila; Margolin, Edward

2012-09-01

To assess quantitatively the efficacy of monovision correction in the treatment of acquired small-angle binocular diplopia in adult patients. Prospective, interventional case series. Twenty patients with symptomatic diplopia were enrolled in a prospective treatment trial at a tertiary university neuro-ophthalmology practice. All had stable deviations of 10 prism diopters or less for more than 3 months. Each received monovision spectacles, contact lenses, or both with distance correction in the dominant eye. Half received a +3.00-diopter add and the others received +2.50 diopters. The validated and standardized Diplopia Questionnaire and Amblyopia and Strabismus Questionnaire were used to quantify the efficacy of monovision correction for diplopia by measuring the functional impact on vision-specific quality of life. primary outcome: Based on the results of the Diplopia Questionnaire, 85% of patients experienced significant improvement in diplopia symptoms after monovision correction. There was a statistically significant 58.6% improvement in the Diplopia Questionnaire score in our patients (P < .0001). secondary outcome: The Amblyopia and Strabismus Questionnaire scores demonstrated improved quality of life and daily function after monovision correction (P = .03), especially in the areas of double vision(P = .0003) and social contact and appearance (P = .0002). Monovision decreased the frequency of diplopia and improved subjects' quality of life. Monovision may be a feasible alternative for presbyopic diplopic patients who are dissatisfied with other conservative treatment options. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Assessment of personality functioning: validity of the operationalized psychodynamic diagnosis axis IV (structure).

PubMed

Doering, Stephan; Burgmer, Markus; Heuft, Gereon; Menke, Dina; Bäumer, Brigitta; Lübking, Margit; Feldmann, Marcus; Schneider, Gudrun

2014-01-01

The assessment of personality functioning has recently become a focus of psychiatric diagnostics. The interview-based Operationalized Psychodynamic Diagnosis (OPD-2) provides a 'structure axis' for the assessment of personality functioning. One hundred twenty-four psychiatric patients were diagnosed by means of the Structured Clinical Interviews for DSM-IV (SCID-I and SCID-II), underwent OPD-2 interviews, and completed 9 questionnaires. The OPD-2 structure axis shows good interrater reliability (intraclass correlation = 0.793). Correlations between the OPD-2 structure axis domains and a priori selected questionnaire scales were of medium size and significant. Patients with a personality disorder (PD) showed significantly worse personality functioning than those without. In cluster B PD, personality functioning was more severely impaired than in cluster C PD. The OPD-2 structure axis shows good reliability as well as concurrent and discriminant validity and can be recommended for clinical use and research purposes. © 2013 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Improved clinical, functional and work outcomes in spondyloarthritides during real-life adalimumab treatment in central-eastern Europe.

PubMed

Szántó, Sándor; Poór, Gyula; Opris, Daniela; Iaremenko, Oleg; Procházková, Leona; Kuuse, Reet; Nagy, Orsolya; Chernyshov, Valentyn; Géher, Pál

2016-08-01

Adalimumab effectiveness on clinical, functional and work-related outcomes was evaluated in patients with active ankylosing spondylitis or psoriatic arthritis treated in routine clinical practice in central-eastern Europe. Patients (n = 555) were followed for 12 months. Primary end point was percentage of patients with a treatment response (≥50% decrease from baseline in Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index or ≥1.2 point decrease from baseline in Disease Activity Index-28 joint for axial or peripheral symptoms, respectively). Functional status was evaluated by the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index and Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index. Working ability was evaluated by the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire - Specific Health Problem. 76.1% of patients with axial symptoms and 83.5% with peripheral symptoms achieved a treatment response. Frequency of extra-articular manifestations decreased. Improvements were observed in functional status and workability. No new safety signals were observed. Adalimumab was effective and well tolerated during real-world use in central-eastern Europe.

Skin problems of the stump in lower-limb amputees: 2. Influence on functioning in daily life.

PubMed

Meulenbelt, Henk E J; Geertzen, Jan H B; Jonkman, Marcel F; Dijkstra, Pieter U

2011-03-01

The aim of this study was to analyse the influence of stump skin problems on functioning in daily life in lower-limb amputees. A cross-sectional study was performed by means of a questionnaire containing 9 questions assessing functioning in daily life. Question scores were added to give a total score (range 0 (no influence) to 27 (maximum negative influence)). Two thousand and thirty-nine people were invited to participate, with 805 participants completing a questionnaire. Of these, 507 reported one or more skin problems. Skin problems had a negative influence on ability to perform household tasks, prosthesis use, social functioning, and participation in sports. The mean total score was 5.5 ± 4.1. This correlated significantly with the number of skin complaints (r = 0.483; p = 0.01). In linear regression analyses, gender (β = -0.15) and number of skin problems (β = 0.25) accounted for 23% of the total score. This study confirms the influence of skin problems on functioning in daily life.

Validation of the FASH (Functional Assessment Scale for Acute Hamstring Injuries) questionnaire for German-speaking football players.

PubMed

Lohrer, Heinz; Nauck, Tanja; Korakakis, Vasileios; Malliaropoulos, Nikos

2016-10-24

The FASH (Functional Assessment Scale for Acute Hamstring Injuries) questionnaire has been recently developed as a disease-specific self-administered questionnaire for use in Greek, English, and German languages. Its psychometric qualities (validity and reliability) were tested only in Greek-speaking patients mainly representing track and field athletes. As hamstring injuries represent the most common football injury, we tested the validity and reliability of the FASH-G (G = German version) questionnaire in German-speaking footballers suffering from acute hamstring injuries. The FASH-G questionnaire was tested for reliability and validity, in 16 footballers with hamstring injuries (patients' group), 77 asymptomatic footballers (healthy group), and 19 field hockey players (at-risk group). Known-group validity was tested by comparing the total FASH-G scores of the injured and non-injured groups. Reliability of the FASH-G questionnaire was analysed in 18 asymptomatic footballers using the intra-class coefficient. Known-group validity was demonstrated by significant differences between injured and non-injured participants (p < 0.001). The FASH-G exhibited very good test-retest reliability (intra-class correlation coefficient = 0.982, p < 0.001). Internal consistency was excellent (α = 0.938). Compared with the results presented in the original publication, no statistical differences were found between healthy athletes (p = 0.257), but patients' groups and at-risk groups presented scoring differences (p = 0.040 and <0.001, respectively). The FASH-G is a valid and reliable instrument to assess and determine the severity of hamstring injuries in German footballers.

Do mental skills make champions? Examining the discriminant function of the psychological characteristics of developing excellence questionnaire.

PubMed

Macnamara, Aine; Collins, Dave

2013-01-01

The ability to successfully develop to the highest levels in sport is dependent on a range of variables, not least an individual's ability to cope with the various challenges of development. Psychological Characteristics of Developing Excellence (PCDEs) include both the trait characteristics and the state-deployed skills that have been shown to play a crucial role in the realisation of potential. Psychological characteristics of developing excellence equip aspiring elites with the mental skills, attitudes, and emotions to cope with the challenges of the development pathway, as well as underpinning their capacity to make the most of their innate abilities. The Psychological Characteristics of Developing Excellence Questionnaire (PCDEQ) was designed to assess the possession and deployment of these characteristics. The purpose of this paper was to examine the ability of the Psychological Characteristics of Developing Excellence Questionnaire to effectively discriminate between good and poor developers based on their current possession and deployment of psychological characteristics of developing excellence. Two hundred and eighty-five athletes (n = 192 team athletes; n = 93 individual athletes) completed the Psychological Characteristics of Developing Excellence Questionnaire. Results from the discriminant function analysis suggest that the Psychological Characteristics of Developing Excellence Questionnaire correctly classifies between 67% and 75% of athletes based on their responses. The Psychological Characteristics of Developing Excellence Questionnaire can be used as a formative assessment tool to direct training programmes by identifying weaknesses in psychological characteristics of developing excellence and incorporating specific training to address these weaknesses in advance of developmental challenges.

Validity and reliability of the Dutch translation of the VISA-P questionnaire for patellar tendinopathy.

PubMed

Zwerver, Johannes; Kramer, Tamara; van den Akker-Scheek, Inge

2009-08-11

The VISA-P questionnaire evaluates severity of symptoms, knee function and ability to play sports in athletes with patellar tendinopathy. This English-language self-administered brief patient outcome score was developed in Australia to monitor rehabilitation and to evaluate outcome of clinical studies. Aim of this study was to translate the questionnaire into Dutch and to study the reliability and validity of the Dutch version of the VISA-P. The questionnaire was translated into Dutch according to internationally recommended guidelines. Test-retest reliability was determined in 99 students with a time interval of 2.5 weeks. To determine discriminative validity of the Dutch VISA-P, 18 healthy students, 15 competitive volleyball players (at-risk population), 14 patients with patellar tendinopathy, 6 patients who had surgery for patellar tendinopathy, 17 patients with knee injuries other than patellar tendinopathy, and 9 patients with symptoms unrelated to their knees completed the Dutch VISA-P. The Dutch VISA-P questionnaire showed satisfactory test-retest reliability (ICC=0.74). The mean (+/-SD) VISA-P scores were 95 (+/-9) for the healthy students, 89 (+/-11) for the volleyball players, 58 (+/-19) for patients with patellar tendinopathy, and 56 (+/-21) for athletes who had surgery for patellar tendinopathy. Patients with other knee injuries or symptoms unrelated to the knee scored 62 (+/-24) and 77 (+/-24). The translated Dutch version of the VISA-P questionnaire is equivalent to its original version, has satisfactory test-retest reliability and is a valid score to evaluate symptoms, knee function and ability to play sports of Dutch athletes with patellar tendinopathy.

[Italian translation and validation of the Nordic IRSST standardized questionnaire for the analysis of musculoskeletal symptoms].

PubMed

Gobba, F; Ghersi, R; Martinelli, Simona; Richeldi, Arianna; Clerici, Piera; Grazioli, P

2008-01-01

Data on self-reported symptoms and/or functional impairments are important in research on work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs). In such cases the availability of international standardized questionnaires is extremely important since they permit comparison of studies performed in different Countries. Translation into Italian and validation of the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ), a tool which is widely used in studies on WRMSDs in the international scientific literature. The extended Canadian version of the NMQ was translated into Italian. As per the current guidelines, the cross-cultural adaptation was performed by translation of the items from French, back-translation by independent mother-tongue translators and committee review. The resulting version of the questionnaire underwent pre-testing in 3 independent groups of subjects. The comprehensibility, reliability (internal consistency and reproducibility) and sensitivity were evaluated. After translation/back-translation and review of the items the comprehensibility of the Italian version of the questionnaire was judged good in a group of 40 workers. The internal consistency was evaluated using the Cronbach's Alpha test in the same group and in another 98 engineering workers: the results were on the whole acceptable. The reproducibility, which was tested with Cohen's Kappa test in the 40 workers, was good/excellent. In a preliminary evaluation, performed in 30 outpatients of a of Rehabilitation Service, sensitivity was very good. The results show that the Italian version of the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire is valid for self-administration and can be applied in 'field" studies on self-reported musculoskeletal symptoms and functional impairments in group of workers.

Evaluation of the Intermittent Exotropia Questionnaire using Rasch analysis.

PubMed

Leske, David A; Holmes, Jonathan M; Melia, B Michele

2015-04-01

The Intermittent Exotropia Questionnaire (IXTQ) is a patient, proxy, and parental report of quality of life specific to children with intermittent exotropia. We refine the IXTQ using Rasch analysis to improve reliability and validity. Rasch analysis was performed on responses of 575 patients with intermittent exotropia enrolled from May 15, 2008, through July 24, 2013, and their parents from each of the 4 IXTQ health-related quality-of-life questionnaires (child 5 through 7 years of age and child 8 through 17 years of age, proxy, and parent questionnaires). Questionnaire performance and structure were confirmed in a separate cohort of 379 patients with intermittent exotropia. One item was removed from the 12-item child and proxy questionnaires, and response options in the 8- to 17-year-old child IXTQ and proxy IXTQ were combined into 3 response options for both questionnaires. Targeting was relatively poor for the child and proxy questionnaires. For the parent questionnaire, 3 subscales (psychosocial, function, and surgery) were evident. One item was removed from the psychosocial subscale. Resulting subscales had appropriate targeting. The Rasch-revised IXTQ may be a useful instrument for determining how intermittent exotropia affects health-related quality of life of children with intermittent exotropia and their parents, particularly for cohort studies.

Quality of Life and Bronchial Hyper-Responsiveness in Subjects With Bronchiectasis: Validation of the Seattle Obstructive Lung Disease Questionnaire in Bronchiectasis.

PubMed

Bulcun, Emel; Arslan, Mesut; Ekici, Aydanur; Ekici, Mehmet

2015-11-01

Bronchiectasis can adversely affect quality of life. However, the tests examining quality of life in bronchiectasis are not sufficient. We examined the validity of a measure designed for COPD, the Seattle Obstructive Lung Disease Questionnaire (SOLQ), in bronchiectasis. In addition, we aimed to compare the quality of life of subjects with bronchiectasis and bronchial hyper-responsiveness with that of those without to identify the effective factors. We studied 78 subjects with clinically stable bronchiectasis and 41 healthy controls matched for age and sex. Subjects were assessed by the SOLQ. A detailed history, physical examination, the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short Form questionnaire, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and spirometric measurements were obtained. Cronbach α coefficients, which reflected internal consistency, were >0.70 for all SOLQ components except for treatment satisfaction. SOLQ component scores correlated with all of the component scores of the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short Form questionnaire and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, confirming their concurrent validity. All SOLQ scores correlated positively with percent-of-predicted FEV1, whereas the physical function, treatment satisfaction, and emotional function correlated negatively with the exacerbation frequency in Pearson analysis. Emotional and physical functions were positively associated with percent-of-predicted FEV1 in linear regression analysis. Compared with subjects without bronchial hyper-responsiveness, those with bronchial hyper-responsiveness had lower FEV1/FVC and more exacerbations/y. Compared with bronchiectasis subjects without bronchial hyper-responsiveness, those with bronchial hyper-responsiveness had significantly lower SOLQ, physical function, and coping skills scores but not emotional function and treatment satisfaction. The SOLQ is a valid instrument for determining quality of life in subjects with bronchiectasis. Subjects with bronchiectasis and bronchial hyper-responsiveness had a poorer quality of life, lower baseline spirometric values, and more frequent exacerbations, suggesting more severe disease. Copyright © 2015 by Daedalus Enterprises.

Validation of the Bulgarian version of Scales for Outcomes in Parkinson's Disease - Autonomic (SCOPA-AUT-BG).

PubMed

Mantarova, Stefka G; Velcheva, Irena V; Georgieva, Spaska O; Stambolieva, Katerina I

2013-01-01

The last twenty years have witnessed a surge of interest in the autonomic symptoms in Parkinson's disease (PD) and the possibilities to diagnose and treat them. The specialized questionnaire assessing the autonomic symptoms in Parkinson's disease (SCOPA-AUT) has been validated and available in English, Dutch and Spanish. In this study we aim at evaluating the validity, reliability and applicability of the Bulgarian version of SCOPA-AUT (SCOPA-AUT-BG). The study included 55 patients with idiopathic PD (mean age 64.4 +/- 8.9 yrs), and 40 healthy controls (mean age 58.5 +/- 9.4 yrs). Clinical severity and disease stage were assessed by United Parkinson's disease rating scale (UPRDS) and Hoen and Yahr (H&Y). Thirty-two of the PD patients completed SCOPA-AUT-BG again after a 7-day interval. Questionnaire reliability was analyzed by determining the internal consistency, homogeneity, discriminatory and construct validity and test-retest reliability. Analyses showed good internal consistency of the summary evaluation of SCOPA-AUT-BG (coefficient alpha of Cronbach = 0.79), which indicates the high reliability of the questionnaire. The lowest Cronbach's alpha coefficient (0.53) was found for the subscale "cardiovascular functions". A dominant role belongs to the subscales for gastrointestinal and urinary functions (Cronbach's Alpha > 0.7), where a significantly high correlation of PD with the UPDRS scale was observed. We found high test-retest reliability based on the responses associated with dysfunction of the gastrointestinal, urinary, thermoregulatory and pupillary autonomic systems. The correlation of the results of SCOPA-AUT-BG with UPDRS is higher than that with H&Y, and the construct validity is high except for the cardiovascular and pupillomotor functions subscales. The results of this study show that SCOPA-AUT-BG is a valid and reliable specialized questionnaire to evaluate autonomic function in patients with Parkinson's disease. Using it allows for more detailed clinical evaluation of these patients and justifies the need to refer them to specialized examination of autonomic functions.

[Relationship between Quality of Life (QOL) and cognitive function among community-dwelling elderly].

PubMed

Konagaya, Yoko; Watanabe, Tomoyuki; Ohta, Toshiki; Takata, Kazuko

2009-03-01

It has become important for elderly to live better rather than to live longer. There have been many reports about quality of life (QOL) of the elderly, but we have no knowledge about the relation between the QOL and the cognitive function. We investigated the relationship between the QOL and the cognitive function among community-dwelling elderly. A total of 12,059 community-dwelling elderly were invited to join a cognitive screening study by telephone (TICS-J) combined with a mailed QOL questionnaire. Among them, 1,920 subjects (age 71.87+/-5.50 (mean+/-SD) years old, duration of education 11.08+/-2.61 years) who completed both TICS-J and QOL questionnaire were actually measured. TICS-J was administered by the previously reported method, and the QOL questionnaire was developed based on the component of QOL proposed by Lawton, and consisted of 6 subscales (daily activity, satisfaction with health, satisfaction with human support, satisfaction with economic state, symptoms of depression, and positive mental attitude). Correlations were analyzed among the scores of TICS-J, age, duration of education, and scores on each QOL subscale. Multiple linear regression analysis was conducted after QOL subscale scores, adjusting for gender, age, and duration of education, were entered as dependent variables. Four out of 6 subscales scores of QOL showed significant differences between men and women. All QOL subscale scores showed significant differences between the two groups in the TICS-J scores. Partial correlations were seen among TICS-J scores and each QOL subscale score. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed significant influence of cognitive function by TICS-J on QOL subscales scores. Cognitive function was considered to have more influence on QOL scores than gender or age. TICS-J and the QOL questionnaire in this study were useful to evaluate the outcome of welfare in community-dwelling elderly.

Quality of life and sexual function of patients following radical hysterectomy and vaginal extension.

PubMed

Ye, Shuang; Yang, Jiaxin; Cao, Dongyan; Zhu, Lan; Lang, Jinghe; Chuang, Linus T; Shen, Keng

2014-05-01

Radical hysterectomy (RH) has negative consequences on sexual function due to a shortened vagina, vaginal dryness, and dyspareunia. Peritoneovaginoplasty aims to extend vagina by vesical peritoneum and anterior rectal wall to improve postoperative sexual function. The aim of this study was to investigate whether vaginal extension can improve sexual function and quality of life and the problem of sexual dysfunction in early-stage cervical cancer survivors (CCSs) in China. Case-control and questionnaire-based methods were employed. Thirty-one patients who had undergone vaginal extension following RH and 28 patients with matching factors after RH alone were enrolled in the study. Both groups were assessed retrospectively by questionnaires at least 6 months after treatment. The European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality-of-Life questionnaire cervical cancer module and the Sexual Function Vaginal Changes Questionnaire are validated measurements for disease- and treatment-specific issues. Vaginal length was 10.03 ± 1.26 cm and 5.92 ± 1.05 cm in study and control group, respectively (P < 0.05). In the study group, 67.7% patients and 64.3% of control group resumed sexual activity at the time of interview, averaging 6 months between treatment and sexual activity. While difficulty emptying bladder, incomplete emptying, and constipation were the most commonly reported symptoms, no significant difference was observed regarding pelvic floor symptoms. Reduced vagina size and shortened vagina was significantly more prominent in the control group, whereas both group presented with hypoactive sexual desire (88.1%), orgasm dysfunction (71.8%), and low enjoyment or relaxation after sex (51.3%). Shortened vagina was significantly less reported in study group, while no difference was observed in other sex-related dimensions. Vaginal extension does not worsen pelvic floor symptoms. Sexual rehabilitation interventions are of significance and should be paid more attention to the CCSs in China. © 2014 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

Social-adaptive and psychological functioning of patients affected by Fabry disease.

PubMed

Laney, Dawn Alyssia; Gruskin, Daniel J; Fernhoff, Paul M; Cubells, Joseph F; Ousley, Opal Y; Hipp, Heather; Mehta, Ami J

2010-12-01

Fabry disease (FD) is an X-linked lysosomal storage disorder caused by the deficiency of alpha-galactosidase A. In addition to the debilitating physical symptoms of FD, there are also under-recognized and poorly characterized psychiatric features. As a first step toward characterizing psychiatric features of FD, we administered the Achenbach adult self report questionnaire to 30 FD patients and the Achenbach adult behavior checklist questionnaire to 28 partners/parents/friends of FD patients. Data from at least one of the questionnaires were available on 33 subjects. Analysis focused on social-adaptive functioning in various aspects of daily life and on criteria related to the Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders IV (DSM-IV). Adaptive functioning scale values, which primarily measure social and relationship functioning and occupational success, showed that eight FD patients (six female and two male) had mean adaptive functioning deficits as compared to population norms. Greater rates of depression (P < 0.01), anxiety (P = 0.05), depression and anxiety (P = 0.03), antisocial personality (P < 0.001), attention-deficit/hyperactivity (AD/H; P < 0.01), hyperactivity-impulsivity (P < 0.01), and aggressive behavior (P = 0.03) were associated with poorer adaptive functioning. Decreased social-adaptive functioning in this study was not statistically significantly associated to disease severity, pain, or level of vitality. This study shows for the first time that FD patients, particularly women, are affected by decreased social-adaptive functioning. Comprehensive treatment plans for FD should consider assessments and interventions to evaluate and improve social, occupational, and psychological functioning. Attention to the behavioral aspects of FD could lead to improved treatment outcome and improved quality of life. Individuals affected by Fabry disease exhibited social-adaptive functioning deficits that were significantly correlated with anxiety, depression, antisocial behavior, and AD/H problems in a sampling of our male and female patients aged between 18 years and 59 years.

Successful treatment of diplopia with prism improves health-related quality of life.

PubMed

Hatt, Sarah R; Leske, David A; Liebermann, Laura; Holmes, Jonathan M

2014-06-01

To report change in strabismus-specific health-related quality of life (HRQOL) following treatment with prism. Retrospective cross-sectional study. Thirty-four patients with diplopia (median age 63, range 14-84 years) completed the Adult Strabismus-20 questionnaire (100-0, best to worst HRQOL) and a diplopia questionnaire in a clinical practice before prism and in prism correction. Before prism, diplopia was "sometimes" or worse for reading and/or straight-ahead distance. Prism treatment success was defined as diplopia rated "never" or "rarely" on the diplopia questionnaire for reading and straight-ahead distance. Failure was defined as worsening or no change in diplopia. For both successes and failures, mean Adult Strabismus-20 scores were compared before prism and in prism correction. Each of the 4 Adult Strabismus-20 domains (self-perception, interactions, reading function, and general function) was analyzed separately. Twenty-three of 34 (68%) were successes and 11 (32%) were failures. For successes, reading function improved from 57 ± 27 (SD) before prism to 69 ± 27 in-prism correction (difference 12 ± 20, 95% CI 3.2-20.8, P = .02) and general function improved from 66 ± 25 to 80 ± 18 (difference 14 ± 22, 95% CI 5.0-23.6, P = .003). Self-perception and interaction domains remained unchanged (P > .2). For failures there was no significant change in Adult Strabismus-20 score on any domain (P > .4). Successful correction of diplopia with prism is associated with improvement in strabismus-specific HRQOL, specifically reading function and general function. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[Changes in structure and function of the family of the adolescent in the last decade (1997-2007)].

PubMed

Pérez Milena, Alejandro; Martínez Fernández, María Luz; Mesa Gallardo, Inmaculada; Pérez Milena, Rafael; Leal Helmling, Francisco Javier; Jiménez Pulido, Idoia

2009-09-01

To find out the structure and functioning of the family of the adolescent and its changes in the last decade. Cross-sectional descriptive study using questionnaires. Pupils in obligatory secondary education and high-school in one rural (Granada) and one urban (Jaén) area. Self-administered questionnaire (years 1997-2001-2004-2007) in which details of age, sex, family structure and family-Apgar test were recorded. A total of 1356 adolescents participated, 1271 questionnaires valid (259, 386, 246 and 380 respectively per year). Ages 12-18 years, equality of sexes. The nuclear family structure was predominant (78-84%), followed by single parent family in (7-11%), extended (6-7%) and reconstituted (2%). The family function was mainly normal (70-76%), with 30% dysfunction (slight dysfunction 18-21% and severe dysfunction 5-10%). The structure and family function does not vary by sex or the year of study, it is influenced by age: adolescents 16 years with a higher percentage of family dysfunction in 1997/2001 than the rest of ages, declining in the years 2004/2007 (P <0.05 chi(2)), similar to other ages. While the nuclear family in 1997 had a greater number of adolescents with normal family function (P <0.05 chi(2)), in the remaining years there were no significant differences between different family structures. The perception of family function in adolescents has changed and now does not depend on sex, age and structure. Family care during adolescence should focus on promoting positive family dynamics, regardless of family structure.

Single-joint outcome measures: preliminary validation of patient-reported outcomes and physical examination.

PubMed

Heald, Alison E; Fudman, Edward J; Anklesaria, Pervin; Mease, Philip J

2010-05-01

To assess the validity, responsiveness, and reliability of single-joint outcome measures for determining target joint (TJ) response in patients with inflammatory arthritis. Patient-reported outcomes (PRO), consisting of responses to single questions about TJ global status on a 100-mm visual analog scale (VAS; TJ global score), function on a 100-mm VAS (TJ function score), and pain on a 5-point Likert scale (TJ pain score) were piloted in 66 inflammatory arthritis subjects in a phase 1/2 clinical study of an intraarticular gene transfer agent and compared to physical examination measures (TJ swelling, TJ tenderness) and validated function questionnaires (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand scale, Rheumatoid Arthritis Outcome Score, and the Health Assessment Questionnaire). Construct validity was assessed by evaluating the correlation between the single-joint outcome measures and validated function questionnaires using Spearman's rank correlation. Responsiveness or sensitivity to change was assessed through calculating effect size and standardized response means (SRM). Reliability of physical examination measures was assessed by determining interobserver agreement. The single-joint PRO were highly correlated with each other and correlated well with validated functional measures. The TJ global score exhibited modest effect size and modest SRM that correlated well with the patient's assessment of response on a 100-mm VAS. Physical examination measures exhibited high interrater reliability, but correlated less well with validated functional measures and the patient's assessment of response. Single-joint PRO, particularly the TJ global score, are simple to administer and demonstrate construct validity and responsiveness in patients with inflammatory arthritis. (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT00126724).

Assessing Teachers' Positive Psychological Functioning at Work: Development and Validation of the Teacher Subjective Wellbeing Questionnaire

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Renshaw, Tyler L.; Long, Anna C. J.; Cook, Clayton R.

2015-01-01

This study reports on the initial development and validation of the Teacher Subjective Wellbeing Questionnaire (TSWQ) with 2 samples of educators--a general sample of 185 elementary and middle school teachers, and a target sample of 21 elementary school teachers experiencing classroom management challenges. The TSWQ is an 8-item self-report…

Assessing Adolescents' Positive Psychological Functioning at School: Development and Validation of the Student Subjective Wellbeing Questionnaire

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Renshaw, Tyler L.; Long, Anna C. J.; Cook, Clayton R.

2015-01-01

This study reports on the initial development and validation of the Student Subjective Wellbeing Questionnaire (SSWQ) with a sample of 1,002 students in Grades 6-8. The SSWQ is a 16-item self-report instrument for assessing youths' subjective wellbeing at school, which is operationalized via 4 subscales measuring school connectedness, academic…

Exploring Children's Understanding of Death: Through Drawings and the Death Concept Questionnaire

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bonoti, Fotini; Leondari, Angeliki; Mastora, Adelais

2013-01-01

To investigate whether children's understanding of the concept of death varies as a function of death experience and age, 52 children aged 7, 9, and 11 years (26 had a personal death experience), drew a picture reflecting the meaning of the word death and completed the Death Concept Questionnaire for examination of Human and Animal Death. The…

Behavioral Problems in Children with Motor and Intellectual Disabilities: Prevalence and Associations with Maladaptive Personality and Marital Relationship

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Vrijmoeth, Cis; Monbaliu, Elegast; Lagast, Emmy; Prinzie, Peter

2012-01-01

Prevalence rates of behavioral problems in children with motor disabilities are commonly based on questionnaires developed for a general population (e.g., Child Behavior CheckList). These questionnaires do not take into account lower levels of intellectual functioning. The first aim of this study was to examine the prevalence of parent-reported…

Adolescent Depression: Differential Symptom Presentations in Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Youth Using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bozzay, Melanie L.; O'Leary, Kimberly N.; De Nadai, Alessandro S.; Gryglewicz, Kim; Romero, Gabriela; Karver, Marc S.

2017-01-01

The present study examined differences in symptom presentation in screening for pediatric depression via evaluation of the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). In particular, we examined whether PHQ-9 items function differentially among deaf and hard-of-hearing (DHH; n = 75) and hearing (n = 75) youth based on participants recruited from crisis…

Examining the Validity of the Homework Performance Questionnaire: Multi-Informant Assessment in Elementary and Middle School

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Power, Thomas J.; Watkins, Marley W.; Mautone, Jennifer A.; Walcott, Christy M.; Coutts, Michael J.; Sheridan, Susan M.

2015-01-01

Methods for measuring homework performance have been limited primarily to parent reports of homework deficits. The Homework Performance Questionnaire (HPQ) was developed to assess the homework functioning of students in Grades 1 to 8 from the perspective of both teachers and parents. The purpose of this study was to examine the factorial validity…

Child Maltreatment and Perceived Family Environment as Risk Factors for Adult Rape: Is Child Sexual Abuse the Most Salient Experience?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Messman-Moore, T.L.; Brown, A.L.

2004-01-01

Objective:: Child maltreatment and family functioning were examined as predictors of adult rape in a sample of 925 college women. Method:: Information was obtained from retrospective self-report questionnaires. Child sexual abuse (CSA) was assessed with the Life Experiences Questionnaire, child emotional abuse (CEA) and physical abuse (CPA) were…

Emotional Arousal and Regulation: Further Evidence of the Validity of the "How I Feel" Questionnaire for Use with School-Age Children

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ciucci, Enrica; Baroncelli, Andrea; Grazzani, Ilaria; Ornaghi, Veronica; Caprin, Claudia

2016-01-01

Background: The ability to understand and manage emotional experience is critical to children's health. This study confirmed the validity of the How I Feel (HIF) Questionnaire, a measure of children's emotional arousal and regulation, exploring its associations with measures of emotional and social functioning. Methods: The sample was comprised of…

Children working on the streets in Brazil: predictors of mental health problems.

PubMed

Maciel, Mariana R; Mello, Andrea F; Fossaluza, Victor; Nobrega, Luciana P; Cividanes, Giuliana C; Mari, Jair J; Mello, Marcelo F

2013-03-01

The objective of this study was to determine which factors predict higher risk for mental health problems in children working on the streets. We studied a sample of families that had at least one child working on the streets, from October 2008 to March 2009. The instruments applied were the parent version strengths and difficulties questionnaire (SDQ), the childhood trauma questionnaire (CTQ) for children and caregivers, the WorldSAFE core questionnaire, the global assessment of relational functioning scale (GARF), the schedule for affective disorders and schizophrenia for school-age children (K-SADS), and a socio-demographic questionnaire. 191 children between 7 and 14 years of age were analyzed; 126 (66%) were working on the streets, and 65 were siblings who did not work on the streets. Multivariate analysis showed that mental health problems in the caregivers, violent behaviors of the caregivers toward the children, absence of a partner living in the house, and lower levels of family functioning increased the risk of mental health problems in the children. Caregivers reported severe forms of physical punishment against their children in 62% of cases. Caregivers who had suffered sexual abuse and emotional negligence in childhood were more violent with their children. Factors that increased risk for mental health symptoms in these children were caregivers' psychopathology, physical punishment at home, single-parent structure, and poor family functioning. Work on the streets did not influence the children's mental health, when multiple risk factors were considered; family characteristics were the most significant in this sample.

The Vulvar Pain Assessment Questionnaire inventory.

PubMed

Dargie, Emma; Holden, Ronald R; Pukall, Caroline F

2016-12-01

Millions suffer from chronic vulvar pain (ie, vulvodynia). Vulvodynia represents the intersection of 2 difficult subjects for health care professionals to tackle: sexuality and chronic pain. Those with chronic vulvar pain are often uncomfortable seeking help, and many who do so fail to receive proper diagnoses. The current research developed a multidimensional assessment questionnaire, the Vulvar Pain Assessment Questionnaire (VPAQ) inventory, to assist in the assessment and diagnosis of those with vulvar pain. A large pool of items was created to capture pain characteristics, emotional/cognitive functioning, physical functioning, coping skills, and partner factors. The item pool was subsequently administered online to 288 participants with chronic vulvar pain. Of those, 248 participants also completed previously established questionnaires that were used to evaluate the convergent and discriminant validity of the VPAQ. Exploratory factor analyses of the item pool established 6 primary scales: Pain Severity, Emotional Response, Cognitive Response, and Interference with Life, Sexual Function, and Self-Stimulation/Penetration. A brief screening version accompanies a more detailed version. In addition, 3 supplementary scales address pain quality characteristics, coping skills, and the impact on one's romantic relationship. When relationships among VPAQ scales and previously researched scales were examined, evidence of convergent and discriminant validity was observed. These patterns of findings are consistent with the literature on the multidimensional nature of vulvodynia. The VPAQ can be used for assessment, diagnosis, treatment formulation, and treatment monitoring. In addition, the VPAQ could potentially be used to promote communication between patients and providers, and point toward helpful treatment options and/or referrals.

Cross-cultural adaptation of the Revised Korean version of the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire: its association with physical function and quality of life.

PubMed

Seo, Seong-Rye; Park, Dong-Jin; Kang, Ji-Hyoun; Lee, Jeong-Won; Lee, Kyung-Eun; Wen, Lihui; Kim, Tae-Jong; Park, Yong-Wook; Lee, Shin-Seok

2016-05-01

Despite its shortcomings, the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) is widely used to assess clinical symptoms and measure therapeutic changes in patients with fibromyalgia (FM). Recently, the revised version of the FIQ (FIQR) was released. In this study, we validated the Korean version of the FIQR and evaluated whether the revised version is superior to the original version in reflecting the physical function and quality of life of these patients. Seventy-nine patients with FM were invited to complete a questionnaire that included the original FIQ, FIQR, Multidimensional Health Assessment Questionnaire (MDHAQ), Rheumatology Attitudes Index (RAI), and Medical Outcome Study Short-Form 36 (SF-36). The test-retest reliability was assessed in 55 patients after 1 week, and the Spearman coefficients were 0.604-0.825 and Cronbach's alpha was 0.948 (95% confidence interval 0.930-0.964). The FIQR was significantly correlated with the pain visual analogue scale (VAS), fatigue VAS, RAI, MDHAQ, and physical and mental component summary scores of the SF-36. The FIQR was more strongly associated with the MDHAQ and SF-36 scores than with the original FIQ. Our study showed that the FIQR is a reliable, valid instrument for assessing patients with FM and performs better in the prediction of physical function and health status than the original version. © 2015 Asia Pacific League of Associations for Rheumatology and Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.

Question for a questionnaire: the International Index of Erectile Function.

PubMed

Oztürk, M İ; Koca, O; Keleş, M O; Güneş, M; Kaya, C; Karaman, M I

2011-01-01

The aim of this study was to analyze the impact of patient age and education level on the comprehension of the Turkish version of Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), and to determine the patient characteristics that make this questionnaire less reliable. In this study, 238 male patients presenting to our clinic were enrolled. The patients were asked to complete the Turkish version of the IIEF questionnaire upon arrival by themselves and then once again during their second visit with the assistance of a physician. 'Accurate' comprehension of the IIEF was considered to be the consistency between the 'self-administered' and 'physician-assisted' IIEF scores. The impact of patient age and education level on the 'accurate' comprehension of the IIEF was analyzed. There was a significant difference between the 'self-administered' and 'physician-assisted' IIEF scores in patients ≥ 60 years of age (P=0.045) and primary school graduates (P=0.015). Age ≥ 60 years and being primary school graduate are factors lowering the comprehension of the Turkish version of the IIEF by the patients. Older patients and patients with lower education could benefit from the assistance of a physician while completing this questionnaire.

Low back pain functional disability in athletes; conceptualization and initial development of a questionnaire.

PubMed

Zamani, Elham; Kordi, Ramin; Nourian, Ruhollah; Noorian, Negin; Memari, Amir Hossein; Shariati, Mohammad

2014-12-01

Low Back Pain (LBP) is one of the most prevalent causes of disability not only in the general population but also in athletes. Despite a large number of self-reported back specific disability questionnaires, there is no specific, well documented, outcome measure for athletes suffering from back pain. This study aimed to identify the main descriptive themes representing functional disability in athletes due to LBP. We conducted a qualitative study using in-depth interviews to characterize the experiences of athletes with LBP. Twenty athletes with LBP were recruited and the main descriptive elements of their LBP related disability were extracted. Then a preliminary questionnaire using these themes was proposed. The main disability indicators were pain intensity; stretching exercises, strengthening exercises, sport specific skills, back range of motion (ROM), sitting, walking, sleep patterns, self-care, and recreational activities, fear of pain and avoidance behavior, and changes in sexual activity. The findings of this study suggest that apart from non-sports items, some sport related items should be included in the assessment of LBP disability levels in athletes. Our results have also been organized as a preliminary LBP disability questionnaire for athletes.

Low Back Pain Functional Disability in Athletes; Conceptualization and Initial Development of a Questionnaire

PubMed Central

Zamani, Elham; Kordi, Ramin; Nourian, Ruhollah; Noorian, Negin; Memari, Amir Hossein; Shariati, Mohammad

2014-01-01

Background: Low Back Pain (LBP) is one of the most prevalent causes of disability not only in the general population but also in athletes. Despite a large number of self-reported back specific disability questionnaires, there is no specific, well documented, outcome measure for athletes suffering from back pain. Objectives: This study aimed to identify the main descriptive themes representing functional disability in athletes due to LBP. Patients and Methods: We conducted a qualitative study using in-depth interviews to characterize the experiences of athletes with LBP. Twenty athletes with LBP were recruited and the main descriptive elements of their LBP related disability were extracted. Then a preliminary questionnaire using these themes was proposed. Results: The main disability indicators were pain intensity; stretching exercises, strengthening exercises, sport specific skills, back range of motion (ROM), sitting, walking, sleep patterns, self-care, and recreational activities, fear of pain and avoidance behavior, and changes in sexual activity. Conclusions: The findings of this study suggest that apart from non-sports items, some sport related items should be included in the assessment of LBP disability levels in athletes. Our results have also been organized as a preliminary LBP disability questionnaire for athletes. PMID:25741417

Measuring illness insight in patients with alcohol-related cognitive dysfunction using the Q8 questionnaire: a validation study

PubMed Central

Walvoort, Serge JW; van der Heijden, Paul T; Kessels, Roy PC; Egger, Jos IM

2016-01-01

Aim Impaired illness insight may hamper treatment outcome in patients with alcohol-related cognitive deficits. In this study, a short questionnaire for the assessment of illness insight (eg, the Q8) was investigated in patients with Korsakoff’s syndrome (KS) and in alcohol use disorder (AUD) patients with mild neurocognitive deficits. Methods First, reliability coefficients were computed and internal structure was investigated. Then, comparisons were made between patients with KS and patients with AUD. Furthermore, correlations with the Dysexecutive Questionnaire (DEX) were investigated. Finally, Q8 total scores were correlated with neuropsychological tests for processing speed, memory, and executive function. Results Internal consistency of the Q8 was acceptable (ie, Cronbach’s α =0.73). The Q8 items represent one factor, and scores differ significantly between AUD and KS patients. The Q8 total score, related to the DEX discrepancy score and scores on neuropsychological tests as was hypothesized, indicates that a higher degree of illness insight is associated with a higher level of cognitive functioning. Conclusion The Q8 is a short, valid, and easy-to-administer questionnaire to reliably assess illness insight in patients with moderate-to-severe alcohol-related cognitive dysfunction. PMID:27445476

A comparison of the function, activity and participation and quality of life between down syndrome children and typically developing children.

PubMed

Jung, Hee-Kyoung; Chung, EunJung; Lee, Byoung-Hee

2017-08-01

[Purpose] To compare function, activity, participation, and quality of life of Down syndrome children and typically developing children according to age. [Subjects and Methods] A total of 16 Down syndrome children and 20 children with typical development were included as subjects for this study. International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) Child and Youth version (CY) developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) and a questionnaire were used to measure children's functioning, activity, and participation. To measure quality of life, KIDSCREEN 52-HRQOL questionnaire was used in this study. [Results] ICF-CY function, activity, participation, and quality of life showed statistically significant differences between Down syndrome children and typically developing children. Down syndrome children with higher functions showed higher activities and participation. Higher function, activity and participation features were correlated with better quality of life. Higher function resulted in better quality of life. [Conclusion] Function, activity, participation, quality of life, and several common factors of Down syndrome children depend on the ability of children. Function of Down syndrome children affects their activity, participation, and quality of life. Activities and participations also affect quality of life. Therefore, children's functional aspect is the foundation for quality of life.

Male partners of women with provoked vestibulodynia: attributions for pain and their implications for dyadic adjustment, sexual satisfaction, and psychological distress.

PubMed

Jodoin, Mélanie; Bergeron, Sophie; Khalifé, Samir; Dupuis, Marie-José; Desrochers, Geneviève; Leclerc, Bianca

2008-12-01

Provoked vestibulodynia is a female genital pain condition that results in sexual dysfunction and impacts negatively on the couple. Although patients' causal attributions have been linked to worse psychosexual outcomes, no study has documented the male partners' perspective of this distressing problem and its potential influence on their psychosexual adaptation. To identify whether male partners' attributions for vestibulodynia are possible predictors of their dyadic adjustment, sexual functioning, sexual satisfaction, and psychological distress, as well as of women's pain and sexual functioning. Thirty-eight women with vestibulodynia first completed measures of pain intensity and sexual functioning. Male partners responded to mailed questionnaires assessing their own attributions for genital pain as well as their psychological distress, relationship adjustment, sexual functioning, and sexual satisfaction. Women completed the McGill-Melzack Pain Questionnaire (MPQ) and the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). Attributions of male partners were measured using an adapted version of the Attributional Style Questionnaire (ASQ)-Partner Version. Men also filled out the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI), the Dyadic Adjustment Scale (DAS), the Sexual History Form (SHF), and the Global Measure of Sexual Satisfaction (GMSEX). All four negative attribution dimensions and higher levels of women's pain intensity successfully predicted increased psychological distress in male partners. Higher levels of both internal and global attributions were associated with men's poorer dyadic adjustment, whereas global and stable attributions were related to their lower sexual satisfaction. Attributions failed to significantly predict sexual functioning in male partners and women's pain and sexual functioning. Evaluation and treatment of sexual pain problems should involve both partners and should explore the role of negative attributions.

The relationship between sexual functioning and depressive symptomatology in postpartum women: a pilot study.

PubMed

Chivers, Meredith L; Pittini, Richard; Grigoriadis, Sophie; Villegas, Laura; Ross, Lori E

2011-03-01

Previous research on postpartum sexuality has primarily focused on the impact of physical factors on the resumption and frequency of sexual intercourse; fewer studies have focused on the impact of psychological factors on women's sexual functioning. The aim of this study is to assess current sexual functioning and sexual behavior in women with and without symptoms of postpartum depression using validated measures of postpartum depression and sexual functioning. Women attending postpartum appointments were consecutively recruited over a 12-month period and completed questionnaires assessing sexual functioning, current sexual behavior, and mental health. The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), and items assessing current sexual behaviors. A total of 77 women returned completed questionnaire packages (mean postpartum weeks: 13, range 3-24). Of these, 57 women (74%) had engaged in sexual activity with a partner in the 4 weeks prior to completing the questionnaire. The mean FSFI score was 23.0 (range 6-34), with 37 women (65%) scoring in the range associated with clinical sexual dysfunction. Women with elevated EPDS scores had significantly lower total FSFI, arousal, orgasm, and satisfaction FSFI subscale scores (all P values <0.005) than nondepressed women, suggesting more problematic sexual functioning. Desire, lubrication, and pain FSFI subscale scores were not significantly associated with depression status. A substantial proportion of women experience sexual problems in the postpartum period; these problems are particularly pronounced among women with symptoms of postpartum depression. Longitudinal research is needed to better understand the relationship between sexual dysfunction and depression among postpartum women, and to identify implications for prevention and treatment of both conditions. © 2010 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

Assessment of functional vision and its rehabilitation.

PubMed

Colenbrander, August

2010-03-01

This article, based on a report prepared for the International Council of Ophthalmology (ICO) and the International Society for Low Vision Research and Rehabilitation (ISLRR), explores the assessment of various aspects of visual functioning as needed to document the outcomes of vision rehabilitation. Documenting patient abilities and functional vision (how the person functions) is distinct from the measurement of visual functions (how the eye functions) and also from the assessment of quality of life. All three areas are important, but their assessment should not be mixed. Observation of task performance offers the most objective measure of functional vision, but it is time-consuming and not feasible for many tasks. Where possible, timing and error rates provide an easy score. Patient response questionnaires provide an alternative. They may save time and can cover a wider area, but the responses are subjective and proper scoring presents problems. Simple Likert scoring still predominates but Rasch analysis, needed to provide better result scales, is gaining ground. Selection of questions is another problem. If the range of difficulties does not match the range of patient abilities, and if the difficulties are not distributed evenly, the results are not optimal. This may be an argument to use different outcome questions for different conditions. Generic questionnaires are appropriate for the assessment of generic quality of life, but not for specific rehabilitation outcomes. Different questionnaires are also needed for screening, intake and outcomes. Intake questions must be relevant to actual needs to allow prioritization of rehabilitation goals; the activity inventory presents a prototype. Outcome questions should be targeted at predefined rehabilitation goals. The Appendix cites some promising examples. The Low Vision Intervention Trial (LOVIT) is an example of a properly designed randomized control study, and has demonstrated the remarkable effectiveness of vision rehabilitation. It is hoped that further similar studies will follow.

Comparing fracture healing disorders and long-term functional outcome of polytrauma patients and patients with an isolated displaced midshaft clavicle fracture.

PubMed

Ferree, Steven; Hietbrink, Falco; van der Meijden, Olivier A J; Verleisdonk, Egbert Jan M M; Leenen, Luke P H; Houwert, Roderick M

2017-01-01

Although clavicle fractures are a common injury in polytrauma patients, the functional outcome of displaced midshaft clavicle fractures (DMCFs) in this population is unknown. Our hypothesis was that there would be no differences in fracture healing disorders or functional outcome in polytrauma patients with a DMCF compared with patients with an isolated DMCF, regardless of the treatment modality. A retrospective cohort study of patients (treated at our level I trauma center) with a DMCF was performed and a follow-up questionnaire was administered. Polytrauma patients, defined as an Injury Severity Score ≥16, and those with an isolated clavicle fracture were compared. Fracture healing disorders (nonunion and delayed union) and delayed fixation rates were determined. Functional outcome was assessed by the Quick Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire. A total of 152 patients were analyzed, 71 polytrauma patients and 81 patients with an isolated DMCF. Questionnaire response of 121 patients (80%) was available (mean, 53 months; standard deviation, 22 months). No differences were found between polytrauma patients and those with an isolated DMCF with regard to nonunion (7% vs. 5%, respectively), delayed union (4% vs. 4%), and delayed fixation rate (13% vs. 13%). Polytrauma patients had an overall worse functional outcome, regardless of initial nonoperative treatment or delayed operative fixation. Polytrauma patients had a similar nonunion and delayed fixation rate but had an overall worse functional outcome compared with patients with an isolated DMCF. For polytrauma patients, a wait and see approach can be advocated without the risk of decreased upper extremity function after delayed fixation. Copyright © 2017 Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery Board of Trustees. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Fecal incontinence, sexual complaints, and anorectal function after third-degree obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI): 5-year follow-up.

PubMed

Visscher, A P; Lam, T J; Hart, N; Felt-Bersma, R J F

2014-05-01

Our aim was to evaluate alterations in anorectal function after anal sphincteroplasty for third-degree obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI) in relation to clinical outcome. In this retrospective, descriptive, cross-sectional study conducted between 1998 and 2008, women with persisting fecal incontinence (FI) after 3a OASI and all women with grade 3b or 3c OASI were sent for anorectal function evaluation (AFE) consisting of anal manometry and endosonography 3 months after sphincteroplasty. In 2011, questionnaires regarding FI (Vaizey/Wexner), urinary incontinence (UI) [International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Short Form (ICIQ-SF)], sexual function [Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI)], and quality of life (QOL) (Rand-36) were sent and women were asked to undergo additional AFE. Sixty-six women underwent AFE. Mean follow-up was 5.0 years. Forty (61%) patients returned questionnaires regarding FI and UI. Prevalence of FI was 63% flatus, 50% liquid stool, and 20% solid stool. Thirty-two of 40 also reported on QOL and SF. Sexual dysfunction was present in the majority of women (cutoff value 26.55) and more pronounced in larger OASI. Sixteen of 40 women underwent additional AFE. Women with combined internal (IAS) and external (EAS) anal sphincter injury (n = 6) had worse FI (P < 0.050) and lower anal pressures (P = 0.040) than women with isolated EAS injury (n = 10). Follow-up after third-degree OASI suggests poor anorectal and sexual function. Women with combined external and internal OASI show more deterioration in anorectal function and experience worse FI. Therefore, special attention should be paid to these women in order to mitigate these symptoms later in life.

Association of social support, functional status, and psychological variables with changes in health-related quality of life outcomes in patients with colorectal cancer.

PubMed

Gonzalez-Saenz de Tejada, M; Bilbao, A; Baré, M; Briones, E; Sarasqueta, C; Quintana, J M; Escobar, A

2016-08-01

The aim of this study was to explore the association of social support received, and functional and psychological status of colorectal cancer patients before surgery with changes in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) outcomes measured by EORTC QLQ-C30 at 1-year post-intervention. Consecutive patients that were because of undergo therapeutic surgery for the first time for colon or rectum cancer in nine hospitals in Spain were eligible for the study. Patients completed questionnaires before surgery and 12 months afterwards: one HRQoL instrument, the EORTC QLQ-C30; a social network and social support questionnaire, the Duke-UNC Functional Social Support Questionnaire; the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, to assess anxiety and depression; and the Barthel Index, to assess functional status; as well as questions about sociodemographic information. General linear models were built to explore the association of social support, functional status, and psychological variables with changes in HRQoL 12 months after intervention. A total of 972 patients with colorectal cancer took part in the study. Patients' functional status, social support, and anxiety and depression were associated with changes in at least one HRQoL domain. The higher functional status, and the higher social support, the more they improved in HRQoL domains. Regarding anxiety and depression, the more anxiety and depression patients have at baseline, less they improve in HRQoL domains. Patients with colorectal cancer who have more social support and no psychological distress may have better results in HRQoL domains at 1 year after surgery. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

A meta-analysis of the social communication questionnaire: Screening for autism spectrum disorder.

PubMed

Chesnut, Steven R; Wei, Tianlan; Barnard-Brak, Lucy; Richman, David M

2017-11-01

The current meta-analysis examines the previous research on the utility of the Social Communication Questionnaire as a screening instrument for autism spectrum disorder. Previously published reports have highlighted the inconsistencies between Social Communication Questionnaire-screening results and formal autism spectrum disorder diagnoses. The variations in accuracy resulted in some researchers questioning the validity of the Social Communication Questionnaire. This study systematically examined the accuracy of the Social Communication Questionnaire as a function of the methodological decisions made by researchers screening for autism spectrum disorder over the last 15 years. Findings from this study suggest that the Social Communication Questionnaire is an acceptable screening instrument for autism spectrum disorder (area under the curve = 0.885). Variations in methodological decisions, however, greatly influenced the accuracy of the Social Communication Questionnaire in screening for autism spectrum disorder. Of these methodological variations, using the Current instead of the Lifetime version of the Social Communication Questionnaire resulted in the largest detrimental effect ( d = -3.898), followed by using the Social Communication Questionnaire with individuals younger than 4 years of age ( d = -2.924) and relying upon convenience samples ( d = -4.828 for clinical samples, -2.734 for convenience samples, and -1.422 for community samples). Directions for future research and implications for using the Social Communication Questionnaire to screen for autism spectrum disorder are discussed.

Clinimetric evaluation of shoulder disability questionnaires: a systematic review of the literature

PubMed Central

Bot, S; Terwee, C; van der Windt, D A W M; Bouter, L; Dekker, J; de Vet, H C W

2004-01-01

Methods: Systematic literature searches were performed to identify self administered shoulder disability questionnaires. A checklist was developed to evaluate and compare the clinimetric quality of the instruments. Results: Two reviewers identified and evaluated 16 questionnaires by our checklist. Most studies were found for the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scale (DASH), the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI), and the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Standardised Shoulder Assessment Form (ASES). None of the questionnaires demonstrated satisfactory results for all properties. Most questionnaires claim to measure several domains (for example, pain, physical, emotional, and social functioning), yet dimensionality was studied in only three instruments. The internal consistency was calculated for seven questionnaires and only one received an adequate rating. Twelve questionnaires received positive ratings for construct validity, although depending on the population studied, four of these questionnaires received poor ratings too. Seven questionnaires were shown to have adequate test-retest reliability (ICC >0.70), but five questionnaires were tested inadequately. In most clinimetric studies only small sample sizes (n<43) were used. Nearly all publications lacked information on the interpretation of scores. Conclusion: The DASH, SPADI, and ASES have been studied most extensively, and yet even published validation studies of these instruments have limitations in study design, sample sizes, or evidence for dimensionality. Overall, the DASH received the best ratings for its clinimetric properties. PMID:15020324

Functional improvements following the use of the NVT Vision Rehabilitation program for patients with hemianopia following stroke.

PubMed

Hayes, Allison; Chen, Celia S; Clarke, Gayle; Thompson, Annette

2012-01-01

The incidence of visual deficits following stroke ranges from 20%-68% and has significant impact on activities of daily living. The NVT system is a compensatory visual scanning training program that consists of combined static and mobility training and transfer to activities of daily living. The study aims to evaluate functional changes following the NVT program for people who have homonymous hemianopia (HH) following stroke. Interventional case series of 13 consecutive participants with HH undergoing NVT vision rehabilitation. The primary outcome measure was the number of targets missed on a standardized Mobility Assessment Course (MAC). Other outcome measures included assessment of visual scanning, vision specific Quality of Life questionnaires and reading performance. The average number of targets (sd) missed on the MAC course was 39.6 ± 20.9% before intervention, 27.5 ± 16.3% immediately post intervention and 20.8 ± 15.5% at 3 months post rehabilitation. The study showed a statistically significant trend in improvement in mobility related subscales of National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire-NEI VFQ-25 (p=0.003) and the Veteran Affairs Low Vision Visual Function Questionnaire-VA LVFQ-48 (p=0.036) at 3 months post rehabilitation. The NVT intervention resulted in functional improvements in mobility post rehabilitation. The NVT training showed improvement in vision specific quality of life. There is a need for standardised vision therapy intervention, in conjunction with existing rehabilitation services, for patients with stroke and traumatic brain injury.

Friendly Home and Inhabitants' Morality: Mutual Relationships.

PubMed

Nartova-Bochaver, Sofya K; Kuznetsova, Valeriya B

2017-01-01

The study is aimed at investigating the connection between the friendliness of the home environment and the moral motives' level. The friendliness of the home environment includes two aspects: the number of functions provided by home (functionality) and the congruence of these functions with inhabitants' needs (relevance). The theoretical framework of the study was formed by research and ideas emphasizing the interplay between people and their environments. We hypothesized that the friendliness of the home environment and inhabitants' moral motives would have a reciprocal relationship: the friendlier the home the higher the inhabitants' moral motives' level, and, vice versa, the higher the person's moral motives' level the more positive home image. The respondents were 550 students (25% male). The Home Environment Functionality Questionnaire, the Home Environment Relevance Questionnaire, and the Moral Motivation Model Scale were used. As expected, it was found that the friendliness of the home environment and the inhabitants' moral motives are in reciprocal synergetic relationships. Relevance formed more nuanced correlation patterns with moral motives than functionality did. Functionality predicted moral motives poorly whereas moral motives predicted functionality strongly. Finally, relevance and moral motives were found to be in mutual relationships whereas the perceived functionality was predicted by moral motives only.

Friendly Home and Inhabitants' Morality: Mutual Relationships

PubMed Central

Nartova-Bochaver, Sofya K.; Kuznetsova, Valeriya B.

2018-01-01

The study is aimed at investigating the connection between the friendliness of the home environment and the moral motives' level. The friendliness of the home environment includes two aspects: the number of functions provided by home (functionality) and the congruence of these functions with inhabitants' needs (relevance). The theoretical framework of the study was formed by research and ideas emphasizing the interplay between people and their environments. We hypothesized that the friendliness of the home environment and inhabitants' moral motives would have a reciprocal relationship: the friendlier the home the higher the inhabitants' moral motives' level, and, vice versa, the higher the person's moral motives' level the more positive home image. The respondents were 550 students (25% male). The Home Environment Functionality Questionnaire, the Home Environment Relevance Questionnaire, and the Moral Motivation Model Scale were used. As expected, it was found that the friendliness of the home environment and the inhabitants' moral motives are in reciprocal synergetic relationships. Relevance formed more nuanced correlation patterns with moral motives than functionality did. Functionality predicted moral motives poorly whereas moral motives predicted functionality strongly. Finally, relevance and moral motives were found to be in mutual relationships whereas the perceived functionality was predicted by moral motives only. PMID:29375450

Assessing health-related quality of life in gynecologic oncology: a systematic review of questionnaires and their ability to detect clinically important differences and change.

PubMed

Luckett, Tim; King, Madeleine; Butow, Phyllis; Friedlander, Michael; Paris, Tim

2010-05-01

Researchers wishing to assess the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of women with gynecologic cancers have a range of questionnaires to choose from. In general, disease-, treatment-, or symptom-specific questionnaires are assumed to be better able to identify between-group differences (sensitivity) and changes over time (responsiveness) than are cancer-specific or generic questionnaires. However, little work has tested this assumption in oncology. We set out to (a) identify all multidimensional HRQoL questionnaires used in studies with women with gynecologic cancer and (b) evaluate their track records in identifying minimal clinically important differences (MCIDs), with a view to making recommendations. We searched MEDLINE using the term quality of life and each gynecologic cancer type, as well as the names of identified questionnaires. We used 10% of the scale range as the threshold for an MCID. We identified 1 generic (SF-36/SF-12), 3 cancer-specific (European Organisation for the Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire [EORTC QLQ] C30, Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General [FACT-G], and short-form Cancer Rehabilitation Evaluation System [CARES-SF]), and 1 disease-specific (QOL-Ovarian Cancer Patient Version) HRQoL questionnaires and 5 disease-specific (QLQ-OV28, FACT-O for ovarian, QLQ-CX24, FACT-Cx for cervical and FACT-V for vulvar), 1 treatment-specific (FACT and Gynecologic Oncology Group-Ntx for neurotoxicity), and 2 symptom-specific (FACT-Anemia and Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness and Therapy [FACIT]-Fatigue) modules. Twenty-seven articles reported results from 26 studies in which an MCID had been identified. The FACIT's anemia and fatigue subscales were more sensitive, and the neurotoxicity subscale more sensitive and responsive than the FACT-G on at least 1 comparison. However, we found no evidence for superior performance by the FACT-G compared with the SF-36 or EORTC and FACIT disease-specific modules versus the QLQ-C30 and FACT-G. There was also little evidence to favor EORTC versus FACIT questionnaires or vice versa. The evidence we reviewed offered little support for the hypothesis that disease-, symptom-, or treatment-specific instruments are more sensitive and responsive than cancer-specific or generic questionnaires. However, conclusions were limited by the small number of head-to-head comparisons available. We summarize the clinical contexts in which each instrument identified an MCID to inform choice of questionnaire(s), sample size calculations, and interpretation of results in future studies.

Reliability, Validity, and Cross-Cultural Adaptation of the Turkish Version of the Bournemouth Questionnaire.

PubMed

Gunaydin, Gurkan; Citaker, Seyit; Meray, Jale; Cobanoglu, Gamze; Gunaydin, Ozge Ece; Hazar Kanik, Zeynep

2016-11-01

Validation of a self-report questionnaire. The purpose of this study was to investigate adaptation, validity, and reliability of the Turkish version of the Bournemouth Questionnaire. Low back pain is one of the most frequent disorders leading to activity limitation. This pain affects most of people in their lives. The most important point to evaluate patient's functional abilities and to decide a successful therapy procedure is to manage the assessment questionnaires precisely. One hundred ten patients with chronic low back pain were included in present study. To assess reliability, test-retest and internal consistency analyses were applied. The results of test-retest analysis were assessed by using Intraclass Correlation Coefficient method (95% confidence interval). For internal consistency, Cronbach alpha value was calculated. Validity of the questionnaire was assessed in terms of construct validity. For construct validity, factor analysis and convergent validity were tested. For convergent validity, total points of the Bournemouth Questionnaire were assessed with the total points of Quebec Back Pain Disability Scale and Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire by using Pearson correlation coefficient analysis. Cronbach alpha value was found 0.914, showing that this questionnaire has high internal consistency. The results of test-retest analysis were varying between 0.851 and 0.927, which shows that test-retest results are highly correlated. Factor analysis test indicated that this questionnaire had one factor. Pearson correlation coefficient of the Bournemouth Questionnaire with Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire was calculated 0.703 and it was found with Quebec Back Pain Disability Scale is 0.659. These results showed that the Bournemouth Questionnaire is very good correlated with Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire and Quebec Back Pain Disability Scale. The Turkish version of the Bournemouth Questionnaire is valid and reliable. 3.

Screening for disability in the inner city.

PubMed Central

Patrick, D L; Darby, S C; Green, S; Horton, G; Locker, D; Wiggins, R D

1981-01-01

A 10% sample of private households on the electoral register of the London borough of Lambeth was screened for disable persons aged 16 and over, using a postal questionnaire. After three mailings and individual follow-up of non-responders, 87% of the sample households returned questionnaires. Disability was defined in the screening questionnaire as functional limitations or activity restrictions consequent upon disease or impairment. The overall point prevalence of disability was estimated at 15.4% and the most frequently reported impairments were those of the sense organs, bones, central nervous, circulatory, and respiratory systems. Hearing difficulties were the single most frequently reported functional limitation. A log-linear modelling procedure identified age, marital status, and working status as the factors most strongly associated with disability for both men and women. In addition, men aged 50-64 and not working, and men in manual occupations and living alone, were more likely to report disability. These findings indicate that some population groups are disable by functional limitations and activity restrictions not included in office criteria of identification and assessment. These criteria might be broadened, and serves planned for those population groups with higher rates of reported disability. PMID:6455485

Comparison of Efficacy and Side Effects of Oral Baclofen Versus Tizanidine Therapy with Adjuvant Botulinum Toxin Type A in Children With Cerebral Palsy and Spastic Equinus Foot Deformity.

PubMed

Dai, Alper I; Aksoy, Sefika N; Demiryürek, Abdullah T

2016-02-01

This retrospective study aimed to compare the therapeutic response, including side effects, for oral baclofen versus oral tizanidine therapy with adjuvant botulinum toxin type A in a group of 64 pediatric patients diagnosed with static encephalopathy and spastic equinus foot deformity. Following botulinum toxin A treatment, clinical improvement led to the gradual reduction of baclofen or tizanidine dosing to one-third of the former dose. Gross Motor Functional Measure and Caregiver Health Questionnaire scores were markedly elevated post-botulinum toxin A treatment, with scores for the tizanidine (Gross Motor Functional Measure: 74.45 ± 3.72; Caregiver Health Questionnaire: 72.43 ± 4.29) group significantly higher than for the baclofen group (Gross Motor Functional Measure: 68.23 ± 2.66; Caregiver Health Questionnaire: 67.53 ± 2.67, P < .001). These findings suggest that the combined use of botulinum toxin A and a low dose of tizanidine in treating children with cerebral palsy appears to be more effective and has fewer side effects versus baclofen with adjuvant botulinum toxin A. © The Author(s) 2015.

Relationship between Parental PODCI Questionnaire and School Function Assessment in Measuring Performance in Children with CP

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gates, Philip E.; Otsuka, Norman Y.; Sanders, James O.; McGee-Brown, Jeanie

2008-01-01

Little data exists assessing the relationship between functional limitations in children with cerebral palsy (CP) and their participation in everyday activities. This prospective study evaluates the relationship between the Pediatric Outcomes Data Collection Instrument (PODCI), a functional health-related quality of life instrument for children…

Functions of Memory Sharing and Mother-Child Reminiscing Behaviors: Individual and Cultural Variations

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kulkofsky, Sarah; Wang, Qi; Koh, Jessie Bee Kim

2009-01-01

This study examined maternal beliefs about the functions of memory sharing and the relations between these beliefs and mother-child reminiscing behaviors in a cross-cultural context. Sixty-three European American and 47 Chinese mothers completed an open-ended questionnaire concerning their beliefs about the functions of parent-child memory…

The Role of Socialization, Effortful Control, and Ego Resiliency in French Adolescents' Social Functioning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hofer, Claire; Eisenberg, Nancy; Reiser, Mark

2010-01-01

The relations among effortful control, ego resiliency, socialization, and social functioning were examined with a sample of 182 French adolescents (14-20 years old). Adolescents, their parents, and/or teachers completed questionnaires on these constructs. Effortful control and ego resiliency were correlated with adolescents' social functioning,…

Discordance between Psychometric Testing and Questionnaire-Based Definitions of Executive Function Deficits in Individuals with ADHD

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Biederman, Joseph; Petty, Carter R.; Fried, Ronna; Black, Sarah; Faneuil, Alicia; Doyle, Alysa E.; Seidman, Larry J.; Faraone, Stephen V.

2008-01-01

Objective: One suspected source of negative outcomes associated with ADHD has been deficits in executive functions. Although both psychometrically defined and self-reported executive function deficits (EFDs) have been shown to be associated with poor academic and occupational outcomes, whether these two approaches define the same individuals…

Childhood Sexual Abuse Moderates the Association between Sexual Functioning and Sexual Distress in Women

PubMed Central

Stephenson, Kyle R.; Hughan, Corey P.; Meston, Cindy M.

2012-01-01

Objective To assess the degree to which a history of CSA moderates the association between sexual functioning and sexual distress in women. Method Women with (n = 105, M age = 33.71, 66.1% Caucasian) and without (n = 71, M age = 32.63, 74.7% Caucasian) a history of CSA taking part in a larger clinical trial completed self-report questionnaires at intake including the Sexual Satisfaction Scale for Women (SSS-W), the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), and the Trauma History Questionnaire (THQ). Results Desire, arousal, lubrication, and orgasm interacted with sexual abuse status in predicting sexual distress such that sexual functioning was more weakly associated with distress for women with a history of CSA. This disconnect was more pronounced for women who were abused by a family member. Conclusion CSA status serves as an important moderator of the association between sexual functioning and sexual distress in women. Specifically, women with a history of CSA show higher levels of distress in the context of good sexual functioning as compared to women without a history of CSA. Possible explanations and clinical implications are discussed. PMID:22391416

Adolescent and caregiver perception of family functioning: relation to suicide ideation and attempts.

PubMed

Lipschitz, Jessica M; Yen, Shirley; Weinstock, Lauren M; Spirito, Anthony

2012-12-30

This study assessed the relationship between perceived family functioning and two indicators of suicidality in an adolescent sample. A total of 103 adolescents psychiatrically hospitalized for suicidal ideation and/or behavior completed a battery of self-report questionnaires assessing family functioning, negative affectivity, suicidal ideation in the past week assessed by Beck's Scale for Suicide Ideation (BSS; Beck et al., 1979), and past suicide attempts. Participants' primary caregivers also completed a questionnaire on family functioning. A paired samples t-test evaluated overall discrepancy between adolescent- and caregiver-reported family functioning. Linear and logistic regression models were used to evaluate the simple associations between perceived family functioning and suicidal indicators (BSS and previous attempt status), as well as the associations between perceived family functioning and suicidal indicators after controlling for negative affect. Results indicated that adolescents' ratings of family functioning were significantly worse than caregivers' ratings, and positively associated with BSS scores and a history of suicide attempt. When negative affect was controlled for, adolescent-reported family functioning was significantly associated with BSS, but only trended toward significance with attempt status. Findings suggest that adolescents' perceptions of family functioning may be a key contributing factor to suicidal ideation in adolescents with psychiatric disorders. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effectiveness of the graded motor imagery to improve hand function in patients with distal radius fracture: A randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Dilek, Burcu; Ayhan, Cigdem; Yagci, Gozde; Yakut, Yavuz

Single-blinded randomized controlled trial. Pain management is essential in the early stages of the rehabilitation of distal radius fractures (DRFx). Pain intensity at the acute stage is considered important for determining the individual recovery process, given that higher pain intensity and persistent pain duration negatively affect the function and cortical activity of pain response. Graded motor imagery (GMI) and its components are recent pain management strategies, established on a neuroscience basis. To investigate the effectiveness of GMI in hand function in patients with DRFx. Thirty-six participants were randomly allocated to either GMI (n = 17; 52.59 [9.8] years) or control (n = 19; 47.16 [10.5] years) groups. The GMI group received imagery treatment in addition to traditional rehabilitation, and the control group received traditional rehabilitation for 8 weeks. The assessments included pain at rest and during activity using the visual analog scale, wrist and forearm active range of motion (ROM) with universal goniometer, grip strength with the hydraulic dynamometer (Jamar; Bolingbrook, IL), and upper extremity functional status using the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Questionnaire, and the Michigan Hand Questionnaire. Assessments were performed twice at baseline and at the end of the eighth week. The GMI group showed greater improvement in pain intensity (during rest, 2.24; activity, 6.18 points), wrist ROM (flexion, -40.59; extension, -45.59; radial deviation, -25.59; and ulnar deviation, -26.77 points) and forearm ROM (supination, -43.82 points), and functional status (Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Questionnaire, 38.00; Michigan Hand Questionnaire, -32.53 points) when compared with the control group (for all, P < .05). The cortical model of pathological pain suggests new strategies established on a neuroscience basis. These strategies aim to normalize the cortical proprioceptive representation and reduce pain. One of these recent strategies, GMI appears to provide beneficial effects to control pain, improve grip strength, and increase upper extremity functions in patients with DRFx. Copyright © 2017 Hanley & Belfus. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

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

Clinical and financial impact of pharmacy services in the intensive care unit: pharmacist and prescriber perceptions.

PubMed

MacLaren, Robert; Brett McQueen, R; Campbell, Jon

2013-04-01

To compare pharmacist and prescriber perceptions of the clinical and financial outcomes of pharmacy services in the intensive care unit (ICU). ICU pharmacists were invited to participate in the survey and were asked to invite two ICU prescriber colleagues to complete questionnaires. ICUs with clinical pharmacy services. The questionnaires were designed to solicit frequency, efficiency, and perceptions about the clinical and financial impact (on a 10-point scale) of pharmacy services including patient care (eight functions), education (three functions), administration (three functions), and scholarship (four functions). Basic services were defined as fundamental, and higher-level services were categorized as desirable or optimal. Respondents were asked to suggest possible sources of funding and reimbursement for ICU pharmacy services. Eighty packets containing one 26-item pharmacy questionnaire and two 16-item prescriber questionnaires were distributed to ICU pharmacists. Forty-one pharmacists (51%) and 46 prescribers (29%) returned questionnaires. Pharmacists had worked in the ICU for 8.3 ± 6.4 years and devoted 50.3 ± 18.7% of their efforts to clinical practice. Prescribers generally rated the impact of pharmacy services more favorably than pharmacists. Fundamental services were provided more frequently and were rated more positively than desirable or optimal services across both groups. The percent efficiencies of providing services without the pharmacist ranged between 40% and 65%. Both groups indicated that salary support for the pharmacist should come from hospital departments of pharmacy or critical care or colleges of pharmacy. Prescribers were more likely to consider other sources of funding for pharmacist salaries. Both groups supported reimbursement of clinical pharmacy services. Critical care pharmacy activities were associated with perceptions of beneficial clinical and financial outcomes. Prescribers valued most services more than pharmacists. Fundamental services were viewed more favorably than desirable or optimal services, possibly because they occurred more frequently or were required for safe patient care. Substantial inefficiencies may occur if pharmacy services disappeared. Considerable support existed for funding and reimbursement of critical care pharmacy services. © 2013 Pharmacotherapy Publications, Inc.

Effect of sildenafil citrate on the male sexual experience assessed with the Sexual Experience Questionnaire: a multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with open-label extension.

PubMed

Jones, LeRoy A; Klimberg, Ira W; McMurray, James G; Padula, Rebecca; Tseng, Li-Jung; Stecher, Vera J

2008-08-01

The Sexual Experience Questionnaire (SEX-Q) enables quick and easy assessment of functional, emotional, and satisfaction-related aspects of the sexual experience in men with erectile dysfunction (ED). To assess correlations between improvement on the SEX-Q and outcomes on other validated questionnaires. METHODS. Men with ED (score < or =25 on the Erectile Function domain of the International Index of Erectile Function [IIEF]) who had used less than or equal to six doses of any phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitor (none within 6 months) were randomized to 10 weeks of double-blind, placebo-controlled (DBPC) flexible-dose sildenafil citrate (50 or 100 mg, as needed), followed by 6 weeks of open-label (OL) sildenafil. SEX-Q, IIEF, Quality of Erection Questionnaire (QEQ), Self-Esteem and Relationship (SEAR) Questionnaire, Erection Hardness Score (EHS), successful intercourse attempts (SIAs), Erectile Dysfunction Inventory of Treatment Satisfaction (EDITS), and global efficacy questions (GEQs). Compared with the placebo group (N = 105), the sildenafil group (N = 104) at DBPC end of treatment (EOT) had significantly more improvement (P < 0.05) on all SEX-Q, IIEF (except the Sexual Desire domain), QEQ, and SEAR outcomes, more frequent SIAs and EHS 3 (hard enough for penetration but not completely hard) or EHS 4 (completely hard) erections (odds ratio [OR], 2.52 and 3.46, respectively), EHS 4 erections four times as often (OR, 6.41), more men satisfied with treatment (EDITS; OR, 2.6), approximately twice as many men with improved erections (GEQ1; OR, 5.8) and ability to have sexual intercourse (GEQ2; OR, 5.4), and GEQ3 scores that indicated better sex (P < 0.0001). SEX-Q score improvements correlated positively with all other outcomes. At OL EOT, most outcomes were >60% (and approximately half were > or =80%) of the maximum positive result. SEX-Q change scores correlate with several other functional, emotional, and satisfaction-related outcomes in men treated with sildenafil for ED, allowing a simple and focused evaluation of the sexual experience.

Sexual Anatomy and Function in Women With and Without Genital Mutilation: A Cross-Sectional Study.

PubMed

Abdulcadir, Jasmine; Botsikas, Diomidis; Bolmont, Mylène; Bilancioni, Aline; Djema, Dahila Amal; Bianchi Demicheli, Francesco; Yaron, Michal; Petignat, Patrick

2016-02-01

Female genital mutilation (FGM), the partial or total removal of the external genitalia for non-medical reasons, can affect female sexuality. However, only few studies are available, and these have significant methodologic limitations. To understand the impact of FGM on the anatomy of the clitoris and bulbs using magnetic resonance imaging and on sexuality using psychometric instruments and to study whether differences in anatomy after FGM correlate with differences in sexual function, desire, and body image. A cross-sectional study on sexual function and sexual anatomy was performed in women with and without FGM. Fifteen women with FGM involving cutting of the clitoris and 15 uncut women as a control group matched by age and parity were prospectively recruited. Participants underwent pelvic magnetic resonance imaging with vaginal opacification by ultrasound gel and completed validated questionnaires on desire (Sexual Desire Inventory), body image (Questionnaire d'Image Corporelle [Body Image Satisfaction Scale]), and sexual function (Female Sexual Function Index). Primary outcomes were clitoral and bulbar measurements on magnetic resonance images. Secondary outcomes were sexual function, desire, and body image scores. Women with FGM did not have significantly decreased clitoral glans width and body length but did have significantly smaller volume of the clitoris plus bulbs. They scored significantly lower on sexual function and desire than women without FGM. They did not score lower on Female Sexual Function Index sub-scores for orgasm, desire, and satisfaction and on the Questionnaire d'Image Corporelle but did report significantly more dyspareunia. A larger total volume of clitoris and bulbs did not correlate with higher Female Sexual Function Index and Sexual Desire Inventory scores in women with FGM compared with uncut women who had larger total volume that correlated with higher scores. Women with FGM have sexual erectile tissues for sexual arousal, orgasm, and pleasure. Women with sexual dysfunction should be appropriately counseled and treated. Copyright © 2016 International Society for Sexual Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Relationship between physical performance and self-reported function in healthy individuals across the lifespan.

PubMed

Baldwin, Jennifer N; McKay, Marnee J; Hiller, Claire E; Moloney, Niamh; Nightingale, Elizabeth J; Burns, Joshua

2017-08-01

Functional outcome measures in clinical trials of musculoskeletal conditions need to be meaningful to individuals. To investigate the relationship between physical performance and self/proxy-reported function in 1000 healthy children and adults. Cross-sectional observational study (1000 Norms Project). One thousand males and females aged 3-101 years, healthy by self-report and without major physical disability, were recruited. Twelve performance-based tests were analysed: vertical and long jump, two hand dexterity tests, four balance tests, stepping reaction time, 30-second chair stand, timed up-and-down stairs, and six-minute walk. Self/proxy-reported function was assessed using the Infant-Toddler Quality of Life questionnaire, Child Health Questionnaire, Assessment of Quality of Life (AQoL)-6D Adolescent, AQoL-8D, International Physical Activity Questionnaire and work ability question. Bivariate and multivariate correlational analyses were constructed for infants (3-4y), children (5-10y), adolescents (11-17y), adults (18-59y) and older adults (60+). Socio-demographic characteristics were similar to the Australian population. Among infants/children, greater jump and sit-to-stand performance correlated with higher proxy-reported function (p < 0.05). There were no significant relationships observed for adolescents (p > 0.05). Greater jump, dexterity, balance, reaction time, sit-to-stand, stair-climbing and six-minute walk performance correlated with higher self-reported function in adults (r = -0.097 to.231; p < 0.05) and older adults (r = -0.135 to 0.625; p < 0.05). Multivariate regression modelling revealed a collection of independent performance measures explaining up to 46% of the variance in self/proxy-reported function. Many performance-based tests were significantly associated with self/proxy-reported function. We have identified a set of physical measures which could form the basis of age-appropriate functional scales for clinical trials of musculoskeletal conditions. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Prevalence of swallowing dysfunction screened in Swedish cohort of COPD patients

PubMed Central

Gonzalez Lindh, Margareta; Blom Johansson, Monica; Jennische, Margareta; Koyi, Hirsh

2017-01-01

Background COPD is a common problem associated with morbidity and mortality. COPD may also affect the dynamics and coordination of functions such as swallowing. A misdirected swallow may, in turn, result in the bolus entering the airway. A growing body of evidence suggests that a subgroup of people with COPD is prone to oropharyngeal dysphagia. The aim of this study was to evaluate swallowing dysfunction in patients with stable COPD and to determine the relation between signs and symptoms of swallowing dysfunction and lung function (forced expiratory volume in 1 second percent predicted). Methods Fifty-one patients with COPD in a stable phase participated in a questionnaire survey, swallowing tests, and spirometry. A post-bronchodilator ratio of the forced expiratory volume in 1 second/best of forced vital capacity and vital capacity <0.7 was used to define COPD. Swallowing function was assessed by a questionnaire and two swallowing tests (water and cookie swallow tests). Results Sixty-five percent of the patients reported subjective signs and symptoms of swallowing dysfunction in the questionnaire and 49% showed measurable ones in the swallowing tests. For the combined subjective and objective findings, 78% had a coexisting swallowing dysfunction. No significant difference was found between male and female patients. Conclusion Swallowing function is affected in COPD patients with moderate to severe airflow limitation, and the signs and symptoms of this swallowing dysfunction were subjective, objective, or both. PMID:28176891

Combining item response theory with multiple imputation to equate health assessment questionnaires.

PubMed

Gu, Chenyang; Gutman, Roee

2017-09-01

The assessment of patients' functional status across the continuum of care requires a common patient assessment tool. However, assessment tools that are used in various health care settings differ and cannot be easily contrasted. For example, the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) is used to evaluate the functional status of patients who stay in inpatient rehabilitation facilities, the Minimum Data Set (MDS) is collected for all patients who stay in skilled nursing facilities, and the Outcome and Assessment Information Set (OASIS) is collected if they choose home health care provided by home health agencies. All three instruments or questionnaires include functional status items, but the specific items, rating scales, and instructions for scoring different activities vary between the different settings. We consider equating different health assessment questionnaires as a missing data problem, and propose a variant of predictive mean matching method that relies on Item Response Theory (IRT) models to impute unmeasured item responses. Using real data sets, we simulated missing measurements and compared our proposed approach to existing methods for missing data imputation. We show that, for all of the estimands considered, and in most of the experimental conditions that were examined, the proposed approach provides valid inferences, and generally has better coverages, relatively smaller biases, and shorter interval estimates. The proposed method is further illustrated using a real data set. © 2016, The International Biometric Society.

Measuring Mobility Limitations in Children with Cerebral Palsy: Content and Construct Validity of a Mobility Questionnaire (MobQues)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Van Ravesteyn, Nicolien T.; Scholtes, Vanessa A.; Becher, Jules G.; Roorda, Leo D.; Verschuren, Olaf; Dallmeijer, Annet J.

2010-01-01

Aim: The objective of this study was to assess the validity of a mobility questionnaire (MobQues) that was developed to measure parent-reported mobility limitations in children with cerebral palsy (CP). Method: The parents of 439 children with CP (256 males and 183 females; age range 2-18y; Gross Motor Function Classification System [GMFCS] levels…

Attribute Ratings and Profiles of the Job Elements of the Position Analysis Questionnaire (PAQ).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Marquardt, Lloyd D.; McCormick, Ernest J.

The primary purpose of this study was to obtain estimates of the human attribute requirements of the job elements of the Position Analysis Questionnaire (PAQ). A secondary purpose was to explore the reliability of job-related ratings as a function of the number of raters. A taxonomy of 76 human attributes was used and ratings of the relevance of…

The need for an objective measure in septorhinoplasty surgery: are we any closer to finding an answer?

PubMed

Andrews, P J; Choudhury, N; Takhar, A; Poirrier, A L; Jacques, T; Randhawa, P S

2015-12-01

To assess the reliability of nasal inspiratory peak flow (NIPF) in providing a clinically accurate objective measure following functional septorhinoplasty by comparing it to the validated disease-specific quality-of-life questionnaire, SNOT-22. Studies so far have demonstrated poor correlation between bilateral NIPF and symptom-specific nasal questionnaires following septorhinoplasty. To perform a prospective comparative analysis between NIPF and the validated disease-specific quality-of-life questionnaire SNOT-22 and to determine whether a correlation exists following septorhinoplasty surgery. The Royal National Throat Nose and Ear Hospital, London. A total of 122 patients (78 males, 44 females; mean age 33.5 ± 12.2 years) were recruited from the senior authors rhinology clinic and underwent functional septorhinoplasty surgery. Preoperative and postoperative nasal inspiratory peak flow (NIPF) measurements were performed in addition to the completion of three subjective quality-of-life and symptom assessment tool questionnaires; Sinonasal Outcome Test 22 (SNOT-22), Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS: 0-10). The mean preoperative NIPF was 88.2 L/min, and the postoperative value was 101.6 L/min and showed a significant improvement following surgery (P = 0.0064). The mean total SNOT-22 score improved significantly from 48.6 to 26.6 (P < 0.0001); the NOSE score from 14.1 to 6.6 (P < 0.0001); and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) blockage score from 6.9 to 3.2 (P < 0.0001). All individual domains assessed showed improvements postoperatively, but no correlation was found between the NIPF and SNOT-22 score. Equally, we did not find a correlation between NIPF and the symptom-specific NOSE questionnaire and the nasal blockage domain on the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scale. We have demonstrated that NIPF does not correlate with the SNOT-22 disease-specific questionnaire, although both outcomes significantly improve postoperatively. At present, we are still lacking a clinically accurate objective measure of nasal function for the evaluation of patients undergoing septorhinoplasty surgery. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Characterization of physical activity and sitting time among patients on hemodialysis using a new physical activity instrument.

PubMed

Johansen, Kirsten L; Painter, Patricia; Delgado, Cynthia; Doyle, Julie

2015-01-01

Physical activity questionnaires usually focus on moderate to vigorous activities and may not accurately capture physical activity or variation in levels of activity among extremely inactive groups like dialysis patients. Cross-sectional study. Three dialysis facilities in the San Francisco Bay Area. Sixty-eight prevalent hemodialysis patients. We administered a new physical activity questionnaire designed to capture activity in the lower end of the range, the Low Physical Activity Questionnaire (LoPAQ). Outcome measures were correlation with a validated physical activity questionnaire, the Minnesota Leisure Time Activity (LTA) questionnaire and with self-reported physical function (physical function score of the SF-36) and physical performance (gait speed, chair stand, balance, and short physical performance battery). We also determined whether patients who were frail or reported limitations in activities of daily living were less active on the LoPAQ. Sixty-eight participants (mean age 59 ± 14 years, 59% men) completed the study. Patients were inactive according to the LoPAQ, with a median (interquartile range) of 517 (204-1190) kcal/week of physical activity. Although activity from the LTA was lower than on the LoPAQ (411 [61-902] kcal/week), the difference was not statistically significant (P = .20), and results from the 2 instruments were strongly correlated (rho = 0.62, P < .001). In addition, higher physical activity measured by the LoPAQ was correlated with better self-reported functioning (rho = 0.64, P < .001), better performance on gait speed (rho = 0.32, P = .02), balance (rho = 0.45, P < .001), and chair rising (rho = -0.32, P = .03) tests and with higher short physical performance battery total score (rho = 0.51, P < .001). Frail patients and patients with activities of daily living limitations were less active than those who were not frail or limited. The LoPAQ performed similarly to the Minnesota LTA questionnaire in our cohort despite being shorter and easier to administer. Copyright © 2015 National Kidney Foundation, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Development of a New Self-Reporting Instrument Measuring Benefits and Side Effects of Corticosteroids in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: Report from a Pilot Study.

PubMed

Hendriksen, Ruben G F; Lionarons, Judith M; Hendriksen, Jos G M; Vles, Johan S H; McAdam, Laura C; Biggar, W Douglas

There is no cure for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD); treatment is symptomatic and corticosteroids slow the progression. Side effects of corticosteroids - especially the physical effects - have been described, however patients' and caregivers perception on chronic corticosteroid treatment and their side effects is less well known, in particular with regards to cognition, behaviour, and emotional functioning. The primary aim of this pilot study was to (i) construct a self-report questionnaire to assess the perceived benefits and side effects of corticosteroids for patients with DMD and their parents. Furthermore we aimed to (ii) investigate the psychometric qualities of this questionnaire, (iii) whether there was a difference between parents' and patient's perceptions, and finally (iv) to what extent reported side effects may alter over time. A 23-item questionnaire (SIDECORT: side effect of corticosteroids) was constructed to assess the perception of these benefits and side effects in a systematic manner. In total, 86 patients (aged 5 - 28 years) and 125 of their parents completed the questionnaire. Internal consistency was good. Using factor analyses on the side effect items as reported by parents, two underlying factors were found, with the first factor describing cognitive, behavioural and emotional functioning, and the second factor describing physical functioning. The potential benefits of corticosteroids were highly rated among both parents and patients, although parents rated the importance of the benefits higher than their sons (p = 0.002). Similarly, parents rated the severity of the side effects generally higher than their sons (p = 0.011), especially with regards to the physical side effects (p = 0.014). Based on the parent's perception, the neurodevelopmental side effects generally appeared to decline the longer corticosteroids were used. To our knowledge, this is the first explicit study on perceived cognitive-, behavioural-, and emotional side effects and the allocation of benefits to corticosteroids in DMD. On the basis of our research we suggest a short form questionnaire, which proves to be reliable and valid for research- and clinical practice. This questionnaire could provide useful insights for the care of boys and men with DMD.

MIDAS and HIT-6 French translation: reliability and correlation between tests.

PubMed

Magnoux, E; Freeman, M A; Zlotnik, G

2008-01-01

The aim was to evaluate the test-retest reliability of the French translation of the Migraine Disability Assessment (MIDAS) and Headache Impact Test (HIT)-6 questionnaires as applied to episodic and chronic headaches and to assess the correlation between these two questionnaires. The MIDAS and HIT-6 questionnaires, which assess the degree of migraine-related functional disability, are widely used in headache treatment clinics. The French translation has not been checked for test-retest reliability. MIDAS involves recall, over the previous 3 months, of the number of days with functional disability with regard to work and to home and social life. HIT-6 involves a more subjective and general assessment of headache-related disability over the previous 4 weeks. We expect that there may be greater impact recall bias for chronic headaches than for episodic headaches and considered it important to be able to determine if the reliability of these questionnaires is equally good for these two patient populations. Given that both questionnaires have the same objective, that of assessing headache impact, it was thought useful to determine if their results might show a correlation and if they could thus be used interchangeably. The study was approved by an external ethics committee. The subjects were patients who regularly visit the Clinique de la Migraine de Montréal, which specializes in the treatment of headaches. The MIDAS and HIT-6 questionnaires were completed by the patients during their regular visit. Twelve days later, the same questionnaires were mailed with a prepaid return envelope. Sixty-five patients were required in both the episodic and chronic headache groups, assuming an 80% questionnaire return rate. One hundred and eighty-five patients were enrolled, and 143 completed the study, 75 with episodic headaches and 68 with chronic headaches. The questionnaire return rate was 78.9%. On average, questionnaires were completed a second time 21 days after the first, with a median of 19 days. The Shrout-Fleiss intraclass correlation coefficients for MIDAS and HIT-6 were, respectively, 0.76 and 0.77 for episodic headaches and 0.83 and 0.80 for chronic headaches. The Pearson correlation coefficient between the MIDAS and HIT-6 questionnaires was 0.48 for episodic headaches and 0.58 for chronic headaches at the first compilation and 0.42 and 0.59 at the second compilation. The test-retest intraclass correlation of the French versions for both MIDAS and HIT-6 questionnaires indicates moderate reliability for episodic headache and substantial reliability for chronic headache. The correlation between the MIDAS and HIT-6 questionnaires is weak for episodic headaches, but approaches a level of 'good' for chronic headaches.

Executive Function Subcomponents and their Relations to Everyday Functioning in Healthy Older Adults

PubMed Central

McAlister, Courtney; Schmitter-Edgecombe, Maureen

2016-01-01

Everyday functioning and its executive functioning cognitive correlates (i.e., switching, inhibition, and updating) were investigated in healthy older adults (HOAs) using multiple methods of functional status. In addition to whether computerized experimental tasks would better dissociate these subcomponents than neuropsychological measures of executive functioning, we were also interested in the contributions of both experimental and neuropsychological measures of executive function subcomponents to functional abilities. Seventy HOAs (45 young-old and 25 old-old) and 70 younger adults completed executive function and neuropsychological tests. In addition to self- and informant questionnaires of functional abilities, HOAs completed two performance-based measures. An aging effect was found on all executive function measures. Old-old older adults and their informants did not report more functional difficulties but demonstrated more difficulties on performance-based measures relative to young-old participants. For the HOAs, after controlling for age and education, the neuropsychological measures of executive functioning, but not experimental measures, explained a significant amount of variance in the informant-report and both performance-based measures. Updating measures differentially predicted performance-based measures, while switching was important for questionnaire and performance-based measures. The contribution of executive functioning to functional status when measured with experimental measures specifically designed to isolate the executive subcomponent was not as strong as hypothesized. Further research examining the value of isolating executive function subcomponents in neuropsychological assessment and the prediction of functional abilities in older adults is warranted. PMID:27206842

Executive function subcomponents and their relations to everyday functioning in healthy older adults.

PubMed

McAlister, Courtney; Schmitter-Edgecombe, Maureen

2016-10-01

Everyday functioning and its executive functioning cognitive correlates (i.e., switching, inhibition, and updating) were investigated in healthy older adults (HOAs) using multiple methods of functional status. In addition to whether computerized experimental tasks would better dissociate these subcomponents than neuropsychological measures of executive functioning, we were also interested in the contributions of both experimental and neuropsychological measures of executive function subcomponents to functional abilities. Seventy HOAs (45 young-old and 25 old-old) and 70 younger adults completed executive function and neuropsychological tests. In addition to self- and informant questionnaires of functional abilities, HOAs completed two performance-based measures. An aging effect was found on all executive function measures. Old-old older adults and their informants did not report more functional difficulties but demonstrated more difficulties on performance-based measures than did young-old participants. For the HOAs, after controlling for age and education, the neuropsychological measures of executive functioning, but not experimental measures, explained a significant amount of variance in the informant-report and both performance-based measures. Updating measures differentially predicted performance-based measures, while switching was important for questionnaire and performance-based measures. The contribution of executive functioning to functional status when measured with experimental measures specifically designed to isolate the executive subcomponent was not as strong as hypothesized. Further research examining the value of isolating executive function subcomponents in neuropsychological assessment and the prediction of functional abilities in older adults is warranted.

Effects of Marital Status and Shift Work on Family Function among Registered Nurses

PubMed Central

TAI, Shu-Yu; LIN, Pei-Chen; CHEN, Yao-Mei; HUNG, Hsin-Chia; PAN, Chih-Hong; PAN, Shung-Mei; LEE, Chung-Yin; HUANG, Chia-Tsuan; WU, Ming-Tsang

2014-01-01

This study aims to assess the interactive effect of marital status and shift work on family function. A population-based sample of 1,438 nurses between the ages of 20–45 yr was recruited from Taiwan during the period from July 2005 to April 2006 using a mailed questionnaire. The self-administered questionnaire contained information about demographic data, work status, shift work schedule, and the Family APGAR (Adaptation, Partnership, Growth, Affection, and Resolve) Scale, to evaluate family function. Compared to day shift nurses, non-night and rotation shift nurses had 1.53- and 1.38-fold (95% CI=1.09–2.14 and 1.01–1.88) risk to have poor family function after adjusting for other covariates. Married nurses, by contrast, had a 0.44-fold (95% CI=0.29–0.66) risk to have poor family function compared to single nurses. In addition, married nurses who worked non-night or rotation shifts had a significantly higher percent of poor family function than those married nurses working day shifts; however, similar results were not replicated in single nurses. We concluded that shift work and marital status could influence family function. PMID:24909112

Effects of marital status and shift work on family function among registered nurses.

PubMed

Tai, Shu-Yu; Lin, Pei-Chen; Chen, Yao-Mei; Hung, Hsin-Chia; Pan, Chih-Hong; Pan, Shung-Mei; Lee, Chung-Yin; Huang, Chia-Tsuan; Wu, Ming-Tsang

2014-01-01

This study aims to assess the interactive effect of marital status and shift work on family function. A population-based sample of 1,438 nurses between the ages of 20-45 yr was recruited from Taiwan during the period from July 2005 to April 2006 using a mailed questionnaire. The self-administered questionnaire contained information about demographic data, work status, shift work schedule, and the Family APGAR (Adaptation, Partnership, Growth, Affection, and Resolve) Scale, to evaluate family function. Compared to day shift nurses, non-night and rotation shift nurses had 1.53- and 1.38-fold (95% CI=1.09-2.14 and 1.01-1.88) risk to have poor family function after adjusting for other covariates. Married nurses, by contrast, had a 0.44-fold (95% CI=0.29-0.66) risk to have poor family function compared to single nurses. In addition, married nurses who worked non-night or rotation shifts had a significantly higher percent of poor family function than those married nurses working day shifts; however, similar results were not replicated in single nurses. We concluded that shift work and marital status could influence family function.

Dealing with dissatisfaction in mathematical modelling to integrate QFD and Kano’s model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Retno Sari Dewi, Dian; Debora, Joana; Edy Sianto, Martinus

2017-12-01

The purpose of the study is to implement the integration of Quality Function Deployment (QFD) and Kano’s Model into mathematical model. Voice of customer data in QFD was collected using questionnaire and the questionnaire was developed based on Kano’s model. Then the operational research methodology was applied to build the objective function and constraints in the mathematical model. The relationship between voice of customer and engineering characteristics was modelled using linier regression model. Output of the mathematical model would be detail of engineering characteristics. The objective function of this model is to maximize satisfaction and minimize dissatisfaction as well. Result of this model is 62% .The major contribution of this research is to implement the existing mathematical model to integrate QFD and Kano’s Model in the case study of shoe cabinet.

Sexual Dysfunction in Breast Cancer Survivors: Cross-Cultural Adaptation of the Sexual Activity Questionnaire for Use in Portugal.

PubMed

da Costa, Filipa Alves; Ribeiro, Manuel Castro; Braga, Sofia; Carvalho, Elisabete; Francisco, Fátima; Miranda, Ana Costa; Moreira, António; Fallowfield, Lesley

2016-09-01

The increasing survivor population of breast cancer has shifted research and practice interests into the impacts of the disease and treatment in quality of life aspects. The lack of tools available in Portuguese to objectively evaluate sexual function led to the development of this study, which aimed to cross-culturally adapt and validate the Sexual Activity Questionnaire for use in Portugal. The questionnaire was translated and back-translated, refined following face-to-face interviews with seven breast cancer survivors, and then self-administered by a larger sample at baseline and a fortnight later to test validity and reliability. Following cognitive debriefing (n = 7), minor changes were made and the Sexual Activity Questionnaire was then tested with 134 breast cancer survivors. A 3-factor structure explained 75.5% of the variance, comprising the Pleasure, Habit and Discomfort scales, all yielding good internal consistency (Cronbach's α > 0.70). Concurrent validity with the FACt-An and the BCPT checklist was good (Spearman's r > 0.65; p-value < 0.001) and reliability acceptable (Cohen's k > 0.444). The Sexual Activity Questionnaire allowed the identification of 23.9% of sexually inactive women, for whom the main reasons were lack of interest or motivation and not having a partner. Patient-reported outcomes led to a more comprehensive and improved approach to cancer, tackling areas previously abandoned. Future research should focus on the validation of this scale in samples with different characteristics and even in the overall population to enable generalizability of the findings. The adapted Sexual Activity Questionnaire is a valid tool for assessing sexual function in breast cancer survivors in Portugal.

Dutch version of the Fear of Pain Questionnaire for adolescents with chronic pain.

PubMed

Dekker, Carolien; Bastiaenen, Caroline H G; de Vries, Janneke E; Simons, Laura E; Goossens, Mariëlle E J B; Verbunt, Jeanine A M C F

2018-06-01

Fear of pain is important in the development and maintenance of chronic pain. The Fear of Pain Questionnaire-Child version has been developed to assess pain related fear in children and adolescents. Translating the original questionnaire into Dutch, and investigating internal consistency and construct validity to enable use in the Dutch pain rehabilitation setting for treatment and research. Cross-sectional validation study: After forward and back translation of the FOPQ-C, adolescents (11-22 years old) with chronic musculoskeletal pain completed an assessment containing the Dutch Fear of Pain Questionnaire, and questionnaires about demographics, pain catastrophizing, functional disability, and pain intensity. Internal consistency and construct validity were evaluated through exploratory factor analysis (principal axis factoring with oblique rotation) and hypotheses testing using pain catastrophizing, functional disability, and pain intensity as comparative constructs. Eighty-six adolescents completed the assessment. Exploratory factor analysis resulted in a two-factor structure, explaining 43% of the variance. Internal consistency was strong (Cronbach's α = 0.92 total scale, α = 0.88 factor 1, and α = .86 factor 2). Five out of 6 hypotheses were confirmed. The Dutch version demonstrated good internal consistency and good construct validity in a population of adolescents with chronic musculoskeletal pain. Implications for rehabilitation The Fear of Pain Questionnaire-Child version was developed to measure fear of pain and avoidance in children and adolescents with chronic pain. Identification of fear of pain and activities that are being avoided are important during screening and assessment of the adolescent for chronic pain rehabilitation treatment. The presence of fear of pain and/or avoidance behavior is important information to shape and target multidisciplinary rehabilitation treatment.

The English version of the four-dimensional symptom questionnaire (4DSQ) measures the same as the original Dutch questionnaire: a validation study.

PubMed

Terluin, Berend; Smits, Niels; Miedema, Baukje

2014-12-01

Translations of questionnaires need to be carefully validated to assure that the translation measures the same construct(s) as the original questionnaire. The four-dimensional symptom questionnaire (4DSQ) is a Dutch self-report questionnaire measuring distress, depression, anxiety and somatization. To evaluate the equivalence of the English version of the 4DSQ. 4DSQ data of English and Dutch speaking general practice attendees were analysed and compared. The English speaking group consisted of 205 attendees, aged 18-64 years, in general practice, in Canada whereas the Dutch group consisted of 302 general practice attendees in the Netherlands. Differential item functioning (DIF) analysis was conducted using the Mantel-Haenszel method and ordinal logistic regression. Differential test functioning (DTF; i.e., the scale impact of DIF) was evaluated using linear regression analysis. DIF was detected in 2/16 distress items, 2/6 depression items, 2/12 anxiety items, and 1/16 somatization items. With respect to mean scale scores, the impact of DIF on the scale level was negligible for all scales. On the anxiety scale DIF caused the English speaking patients with moderate to severe anxiety to score about one point lower than Dutch patients with the same anxiety level. The English 4DSQ measures the same constructs like the original Dutch 4DSQ. The distress, depression and somatization scales can employ the same cut-off points as the corresponding Dutch scales. However, cut-off points of the English 4DSQ anxiety scale should be lowered by one point to retain the same meaning as the Dutch anxiety cut-off points.

A comparison of an audiometric screening survey with an in-depth research questionnaire for hearing loss and hearing loss risk factors.

PubMed

Mosites, Emily; Neitzel, Richard; Galusha, Deron; Trufan, Sally; Dixon-Ernst, Christine; Rabinowitz, Peter

2016-12-01

We assessed the reliability of a hearing risk factor screening survey used by hearing conservation programmes for noise-exposed workers. We compared workers' answers from the screening survey to their answers to a confidential research questionnaire regarding hearing loss risk factors. We calculated kappa statistics to test the correlation between yes/no questions in the research questionnaire compared to answers from 1 and 5 years of screening surveys. We compared the screening survey and research questionnaire answers of 274 aluminum plant workers. Most of the questions in the in-company screening survey showed fair to moderate agreement with the research questionnaire (kappa range: -0.02, 0.57). Workers' answers to the screening survey had better correlation with the research questionnaire when we compared 5 years of screening answers. For nearly all questions, workers were more likely to respond affirmatively on the research questionnaire than the screening survey. Hearing conservation programmes should be aware that workers may underreport hearing loss risk factors and functional hearing status on an audiometric screening survey. Validating company screening tools could help provide more accurate information on hearing loss and risk factors.

The development and validation of a multidimensional sum-scaling questionnaire to measure patient-reported outcomes in acute respiratory tract infections in primary care: the acute respiratory tract infection questionnaire.

PubMed

Aabenhus, Rune; Thorsen, Hanne; Siersma, Volkert; Brodersen, John

2013-01-01

Patient-reported outcomes are seldom validated measures in clinical trials of acute respiratory tract infections (ARTIs) in primary care. We developed and validated a patient-reported outcome sum-scaling measure to assess the severity and functional impacts of ARTIs. Qualitative interviews and field testing among adults with an ARTI were conducted to ascertain a high degree of face and content validity of the questionnaire. Subsequently, a draft version of the Acute Respiratory Tract Infection Questionnaire (ARTIQ) was statistically validated by using the partial credit Rasch model to test dimensionality, objectivity, and reliability of items. Test of known groups' validity was conducted by comparing participants with and without an ARTI. The final version of the ARTIQ consisted of 38 items covering five dimensions (Physical-upper, Physical-lower, Psychological, Sleep, and Medicine) and five single items. All final dimensions were confirmed to fit the Rasch model, thus enabling sum-scaling of responses. The ARTIQ scores in participants with an ARTI were significantly higher than in those without ARTI (known groups' validity). A self-administered, multidimensional, sum-scaling questionnaire with high face and content validity and adequate psychometric properties for assessing severity and functional impacts from ARTIs in adults is available to clinical trials and audits in primary care. Copyright © 2013, International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR). Published by Elsevier Inc.

Short-Term Particulate Air Pollution Exposure is Associated with Increased Severity of Respiratory and Quality of Life Symptoms in Patients with Fibrotic Sarcoidosis.

PubMed

Pirozzi, Cheryl S; Mendoza, Daniel L; Xu, Yizhe; Zhang, Yue; Scholand, Mary Beth; Baughman, Robert P

2018-05-26

This study aimed to determine if short-term exposure to particulate matter (PM 2.5 ) and ozone (O₃) is associated with increased symptoms or lung function decline in fibrotic sarcoidosis. Sixteen patients with fibrotic sarcoidosis complicated by frequent exacerbations completed pulmonary function testing and questionnaires every three months for one year. We compared 7-, 10-, and 14-day average levels of PM 2.5 and O₃ estimated at patient residences to spirometry (forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), to forced vital capacity (FVC), episodes of FEV1 decline > 10%) and questionnaire outcomes (Leicester cough questionnaire (LCQ), Saint George Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ), and King's Sarcoidosis Questionnaire (KSQ)) using generalized linear mixed effect models. PM 2.5 level averaged over 14 days was associated with lower KSQ general health status (score change -6.60 per interquartile range (IQR) PM 2.5 increase). PM 2.5 level averaged over 10 and 14 days was associated with lower KSQ lung specific health status (score change -6.93 and -6.91, respectively). PM 2.5 levels were not associated with FEV₁, FVC, episodes of FEV₁ decline > 10%, or respiratory symptoms measured by SGRQ or LCQ. Ozone exposure was not associated with any health outcomes. In this small cohort of patients with fibrotic sarcoidosis, PM 2.5 exposure was associated with increased severity of respiratory and quality of life symptoms.

[Prevalence and risk factors of urinary incontinence in women who visit the doctor with low back pain: multicentre study].

PubMed

Gavira Pavón, Alberto; Walker Chao, Carolina; Rodríguez Rodríguez, Nicomedes; Gavira Iglesias, Francisco Javier

2014-02-01

Estimating prevalence and risk factors of urinary incontinence (UI) in women with low back pain (LBP) and describing their social and demographic and clinical features. Cross-sectional study. Two primary care health centres in south of Cordoba and a private center in Madrid. 364 women of 20-65 years of age (of 466 who were contacted, 33 of them were excluded and 69 refused to participate) who had low back pain located between the twelfth rib and the gluteal fold. Medical questionnaire. Questionnaires (Oswestry Disability Index and UI questionnaires [International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire SF and Incontinence Impact Questionnaire-7]), functional test (ASLR Test) and comorbidity of interest for the UI. Descriptive and multivariate statistical analysis. UI was detected in 155 women (43%, 95% CI: 37%-48%), the majority of stress (83%) and a minimal impact (60%). Front of the continents, incontinent women showed significant differences in age, body mass index, marital status, level of education, coexistence, consumption of drugs/day, number of vaginal and total deliveries, abdominal and pelvic surgery, asthma, constipation, hypertension, diabetes, percentage of disability and functional ASLR test. In multivariate analysis, the variables influencing the probability of being incontinent were asthma, hypertension, constipation, total parity, BMI and the percentage of disability. Prevalence of UI is higher than in women without low back pain. Asthma, constipation and parity are the most influential factors in the occurrence of UI. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier España, S.L. All rights reserved.

Cross-cultural validation of the National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire.

PubMed

Mollazadegan, Kaziwe; Huang, Jinhai; Khadka, Jyoti; Wang, Qinmei; Yang, Feng; Gao, Rongrong; Pesudovs, Konrad

2014-05-01

To assess the native and the previously Rasch-modified National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire (NEI VFQ) scales in a Chinese population. Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China. Questionnaire development. Patients on the waiting list for cataract surgery completed the 39-item NEI VFQ (NEI VFQ-39). Rasch analysis was performed in 3 steps as follows: (1) Assess the psychometric properties of the original NEI VFQ. (2) Reassess the previously proposed Rasch-modified NEI VFQ scales by Pesudovs et al. (2010) in Chinese populations. (3) Compare the scores of previously recommended scales of the NEI VFQ with new Rasch-modified scales of the same questionnaire using Bland-Altman plots. Four hundred thirty-five patients (median age 70 years; range 35 to 90 years) completed the NEI VFQ-39. Response categories for 4 question types were dysfunctional and therefore repaired. The original NEI VFQ-39 and NEI VFQ-25 showed good measurement precision. However, both versions showed multidimensionality, misfitting items, suboptimum targeting, and nonfunctioning subscales. Using the previously proposed Rasch-modified scales of the NEI VFQ yielded valid measurement of each construct in the 39-item and 25-item questionnaire. Comparison between the earlier proposed NEI VFQ scales and the new versions developed in this population showed good agreement. The original NEI VFQ was once again found to be flawed. The previously proposed Rasch-analyzed versions of the NEI VFQ and the new Chinese versions showed good agreement. Copyright © 2014 ASCRS and ESCRS. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Validation of the Polish version of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire - Core 15 - Palliative Care in patients with advanced cancer.

PubMed

Leppert, Wojciech; Majkowicz, Mikolaj

2013-05-01

Limited data exist on the validation of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire - Core 15 - Palliative Care in advanced cancer patients. To adapt the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire - Core 15 - Palliative Care to the Polish clinical setting and to evaluate its psychometric properties in advanced cancer patients. Two quality-of-life measurements were performed at baseline and after 7 days. The concurrent validity of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire - Core 15 - Palliative Care was established by the Pearson correlation coefficients with the modified Edmonton Symptom Assessment System, the Karnofsky Performance Status and the Brief Pain Inventory - Short Form. Reliability was assessed using Cronbach's alpha coefficients and the Spearman correlation coefficients of the baseline and of the second measurement of European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire - Core 15 - Palliative Care items. A total of 160 consecutive patients in one academic palliative medicine centre were included. A total of 129 patients completed the study. The concurrent validity revealed significant correlations of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire - Core 15 - Palliative Care pain scale with the Brief Pain Inventory - Short Form, the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire - Core 15 - Palliative Care symptom items with the modified Edmonton Symptom Assessment System and European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire - Core 15 - Palliative Care functional scales with the Karnofsky Performance Status scores. High Cronbach's alpha and standardised Cronbach's alpha values were found in the case of both functional (range: 0.830-0.925; 0.830-0.932) and symptom scales (range: 0.784-0.940; 0.794-0.941) of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire - Core 15 - Palliative Care, respectively. The Spearman correlation coefficients between the first and the second measurements were significant (p < 0.0001) for all European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire - Core 15 - Palliative Care items. Polish version of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire - Core 15 - Palliative Care is a valid and reliable tool recommended for quality-of-life assessment and monitoring in advanced cancer patients.

Health-related stigma as a determinant of functioning in young adults with narcolepsy.

PubMed

Kapella, Mary C; Berger, Barbara E; Vern, Boris A; Vispute, Sachin; Prasad, Bharati; Carley, David W

2015-01-01

Symptoms of narcolepsy tend to arise during adolescence or young adulthood, a formative time in human development during which people are usually completing their education and launching a career. Little is known about the impact of narcolepsy on the social aspects of health-related quality of life in young adults. The purpose of this study was to examine relationships between health-related stigma, mood (anxiety and depression) and daytime functioning in young adults with narcolepsy compared to those without narcolepsy. Young adults (age 18-35) with narcolepsy (N = 122) and without narcolepsy (N = 93) were mailed a packet that included questionnaires and a self-addressed postage paid envelope. The questionnaire included demographic information and a composite of instruments including the SF 36, Functional Outcomes of Sleep Questionnaire (FOSQ), Fife Stigma Scale (FSS), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Variable associations were assessed using descriptive statistics, ANOVA, Mann-Whitney U Test, correlations, stepwise multiple regression and path analysis. Young adults with narcolepsy perceived significantly more stigma and lower mood and health-related quality of life than young adults without narcolepsy (p<0.01). Health-related stigma was directly and indirectly associated with lower functioning through depressed mood. Fifty-two percent of the variance in functioning was explained by the final model in the young adults with narcolepsy. Health-related stigma in young adults with narcolepsy is at a level consistent with other chronic medical illnesses. Health-related stigma may be an important determinant of functioning in young adults with narcolepsy. Future work is indicated toward further characterizing stigma and developing interventions that address various domains of stigma in people with narcolepsy.

Prevalence of functional gastrointestinal disorders in Taiwan: questionnaire-based survey for adults based on the Rome III criteria.

PubMed

Chang, Fang-Yuan; Chen, Po-Hon; Wu, Tzee-Chung; Pan, Wen-Harn; Chang, Hsing-Yi; Wu, Shin-Jiuan; Yeh, Nai-Hua; Tang, Ren-Bin; Wu, Lite; James, Frank E

2012-01-01

Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGID) are a group of disorders of the digestive system in which the chronic or recurrent symptoms cannot be explained by the presence of structural or tissue abnormality. This survey used a modified Rome III questionnaire on the health and nutrition status of a general population in Taiwan during 2005-2008. A total of 4,275 responders completed the questionnaire. The sample was evenly distributed for men (n=2,137) and women (n=2,138). The prevalence of FGID was 26.2%. Unspecified functional bowel disorder was the most prevalent (8.9%). The second was functional dyspepsia (5.3%), and the third were irritable bowel syndrome (4.4%) and functional constipation (4.4%). Women had a greater prevalence than males (33.2% compared to 22.4%, p<0.05) with regards to total FGID. Most categories of FGID were significantly prominent in women, except functional diarrhea. The FGID groups took fewer servings of vegetables and fruits than the non-FGID group each day (vegetables 2.51 vs 2.70, p<0.001; fruits 0.82 vs 0.91, p<0.001). Smoking, alcohol consumption, and betel nut chewing had no significant impaction on prevalence of FGID. The mean BSRS (brief-symptom rating scale) for screening depression and suicide ideation was higher in the FGID group (2.86 vs 1.63, p<0.001). In conclusion, FGID diagnosed with Rome III criteria are not uncommon in Taiwan's general population. Subjects who met the Rome III criteria for FGID in Taiwan were younger, had less vegetables and fruits intake, higher BSRS scores and were of greater female predominance.

Successful treatment of diplopia with prism improves health-related quality of life

PubMed Central

Hatt, Sarah R.; Leske, David A.; Liebermann, Laura; Holmes, Jonathan M.

2014-01-01

Purpose To report change in strabismus-specific health-related quality of life (HRQOL) following treatment with prism. Design Retrospective cross-sectional study Methods Thirty-four patients with diplopia (median age 63, range 14 to 84 years) completed the Adult Strabismus-20 questionnaire (100 to 0, best to worst HRQOL) and a diplopia questionnaire in a clinical practice before prism and in prism correction. Before prism, diplopia was “sometimes” or worse for reading and/or straight ahead distance. Prism treatment success was defined as diplopia rated “never” or “rarely” on the Diplopia Questionnaire for reading and straight ahead distance. Failure was defined as worsening or no change in diplopia. For both successes and failures, mean Adult Strabismus -20 scores were compared pre-prism and in prism correction. Each of the four Adult Strabismus -20 domains (Self-perception, Interactions, Reading function and General function) were analyzed separately. Results Twenty-three (68%) of 34 were successes and 11 (32%) were failures. For successes, Reading Function improved from 57 ± 27 (SD) before prism to 69 ± 27 in-prism correction (difference 12 ± 20, 95% CI 3.2 to 20.8, P=0.02) and General Function improved from 66 ± 25 to 80 ± 18 (difference 14 ± 22, 95% CI 5.0 to 23.6, P=0.003). Self-perception and Interaction domains remained unchanged (P>0.2). For failures there was no significant change in Adult Strabismus -20 score on any domain (P>0.4). Conclusions Successful correction of diplopia with prism is associated with improvement in strabismus-specific HRQOL, specifically reading function and general function. PMID:24561171

Sexual outcome of patients undergoing thulium laser enucleation of the prostate for benign prostatic hyperplasia.

PubMed

Carmignani, Luca; Bozzini, Giorgio; Macchi, Alberto; Maruccia, Serena; Picozzi, Stefano; Casellato, Stefano

2015-01-01

Treatment of patients with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) may affect the quality of sexual function and ejaculation. The effect of new surgical procedures, which are currently available to treat BPH, on erection and ejaculation, has been poorly studied. This study aimed to assess the effect of thulium laser enucleation of the prostate (ThuLEP) on sexual function and retrograde ejaculation in patients with LUTS secondary to BPH. We performed a prospective study in 110 consecutive patients who had undergone ThuLEP to analyze changes in sexual function and urinary symptoms. To evaluate changes in erection and ejaculation, and the effect of urinary symptoms on the quality of life (QoL), five validated questionnaires were used: the ICIQ-MLUTSsex, MSHQ-EjD, International Index of Erectile Function 5, International Prognostic Scoring System (IPSS) questionnaire, and QoL index of the intraclass correlation coefficients. Patients also underwent IPSS and flowmetry to assess the outcome of flow. Patients were evaluated before surgery and 3-6 months after ThuLEP, whereas those with previous abdominal surgery were excluded. The patients' mean age was 67.83 years. Postoperative urinary symptoms improved after surgery. No significant differences in erectile function before and after surgery were observed. As compared with other techniques described in the literature, the percentage of patients with conserved ejaculation increased by 52.7% after ThuLEP. ThuLEP positively affects urinary symptoms and their effect on the QoL of patients as assessed by questionnaire scores. While endoscopic management of BPH (e.g. transurethral resection of the prostate) causes retrograde ejaculation in most patients, those who undergo ThuLEP have conserved ejaculation and erectile function.

Health-Related Quality of Life in Elderly Patients With Newly Diagnosed Glioblastoma Treated With Short-Course Radiation Therapy Plus Concomitant and Adjuvant Temozolomide

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

Minniti, Giuseppe, E-mail: gminniti@ospedalesantandrea.it; Department of Neurological Sciences, Neuromed Institute, Pozzilli; Scaringi, Claudia

2013-06-01

Purpose: To describe the quality of life (QOL) in elderly patients with glioblastoma (GBM) treated with an abbreviated course of radiation therapy (RT; 40 Gy in 15 fractions) plus concomitant and adjuvant temozolomide (TMZ). Methods and Materials: Health-related QOL (HRQOL) was assessed by European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Quality of Life Questionnaire Core-30 (QLQ-C30, version 3) and EORTC Quality of Life Questionnaire Brain Cancer Module (QLQ-BN20). Changes from baseline in the score of 9 preselected domains (global QLQ, social functioning, cognitive functioning, emotional functioning, physical functioning, motor dysfunction, communication deficit, fatigue, insomnia) were determined 4 weeksmore » after RT and thereafter every 8 weeks during the treatment until disease progression. The proportion of patients with improved HRQOL scores, defined as a change of 10 points or more, and duration of changes were recorded. Results: Sixty-five patients completed the questionnaires at baseline. The treatment was consistently associated with improvement or stability in most of the preselected HRQOL domains. Global health improved over time; mean score differed by 9.6 points between baseline and 6-month follow-up (P=.03). For social functioning and cognitive functioning, mean scores improved over time, with a maximum difference of 10.4 points and 9.5 points between baseline and 6-month follow-up (P=.01 and P=.02), respectively. By contrast, fatigue worsened over time, with a difference in mean score of 5.6 points between baseline and 4-month follow-up (P=.02). Conclusions: A short course of RT in combination with TMZ in elderly patients with GBM was associated with survival benefit without a negative effect on HRQOL until the time of disease progression.« less

Chronic abdominal wall pain misdiagnosed as functional abdominal pain.

PubMed

van Assen, Tijmen; de Jager-Kievit, Jenneke W A J; Scheltinga, Marc R; Roumen, Rudi M H

2013-01-01

The abdominal wall is often neglected as a cause of chronic abdominal pain. The aim of this study was to identify chronic abdominal wall pain syndromes, such as anterior cutaneous nerve entrapment syndrome (ACNES), in a patient population diagnosed with functional abdominal pain, including irritable bowel syndrome, using a validated 18-item questionnaire as an identification tool. In this cross-sectional analysis, 4 Dutch primary care practices employing physicians who were unaware of the existence of ACNES were selected. A total of 535 patients ≥18 years old who were registered with a functional abdominal pain diagnosis were approached when they were symptomatic to complete the questionnaire (maximum 18 points). Responders who scored at least the 10-point cutoff value (sensitivity, 0.94; specificity, 0.92) underwent a diagnostic evaluation to establish their final diagnosis. The main outcome was the presence and prevalence of ACNES in a group of symptomatic patients diagnosed with functional abdominal pain. Of 535 patients, 304 (57%) responded; 167 subjects (31%) recently reporting symptoms completed the questionnaire. Of 23 patients who scored above the 10-point cutoff value, 18 were available for a diagnostic evaluation. In half of these subjects (n = 9) functional abdominal pain (including IBS) was confirmed. However, the other 9 patients were suffering from abdominal wall pain syndrome, 6 of whom were diagnosed with ACNES (3.6% prevalence rate of symptomatic subjects; 95% confidence interval, 1.7-7.6), whereas the remaining 3 harbored a painful lipoma, an abdominal herniation, and a painful scar. A clinically relevant portion of patients previously diagnosed with functional abdominal pain syndrome in a primary care environment suffers from an abdominal wall pain syndrome such as ACNES.

Health-Related Stigma as a Determinant of Functioning in Young Adults with Narcolepsy

PubMed Central

Kapella, Mary C.; Berger, Barbara E.; Vern, Boris A.; Vispute, Sachin; Prasad, Bharati; Carley, David W.

2015-01-01

Symptoms of narcolepsy tend to arise during adolescence or young adulthood, a formative time in human development during which people are usually completing their education and launching a career. Little is known about the impact of narcolepsy on the social aspects of health-related quality of life in young adults. The purpose of this study was to examine relationships between health-related stigma, mood (anxiety and depression) and daytime functioning in young adults with narcolepsy compared to those without narcolepsy. Young adults (age 18–35) with narcolepsy (N = 122) and without narcolepsy (N = 93) were mailed a packet that included questionnaires and a self-addressed postage paid envelope. The questionnaire included demographic information and a composite of instruments including the SF 36, Functional Outcomes of Sleep Questionnaire (FOSQ), Fife Stigma Scale (FSS), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Variable associations were assessed using descriptive statistics, ANOVA, Mann-Whitney U Test, correlations, stepwise multiple regression and path analysis. Young adults with narcolepsy perceived significantly more stigma and lower mood and health-related quality of life than young adults without narcolepsy (p<0.01). Health-related stigma was directly and indirectly associated with lower functioning through depressed mood. Fifty-two percent of the variance in functioning was explained by the final model in the young adults with narcolepsy. Health-related stigma in young adults with narcolepsy is at a level consistent with other chronic medical illnesses. Health-related stigma may be an important determinant of functioning in young adults with narcolepsy. Future work is indicated toward further characterizing stigma and developing interventions that address various domains of stigma in people with narcolepsy. PMID:25898361

Impact of Radiotherapy When Added to Androgen-Deprivation Therapy for Locally Advanced Prostate Cancer: Long-Term Quality-of-Life Outcomes From the NCIC CTG PR3/MRC PR07 Randomized Trial

PubMed Central

Brundage, Michael; Sydes, Matthew R.; Parulekar, Wendy R.; Warde, Padraig; Cowan, Richard; Bezjak, Andrea; Kirkbride, Peter; Parliament, Matthew; Moynihan, Clare; Bahary, Jean-Paul; Parmar, Mahesh K.B.; Sanders, Karen; Chen, Bingshu E.; Mason, Malcolm D.

2015-01-01

Purpose The NCIC CTG PR3/MRC PR07 randomized phase III trial compared androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT) alone versus ADT with radiotherapy (RT) for patients with locally advanced prostate cancer. This article reports the health-related quality-of-life (HRQOL) outcomes of this trial. Patients and Methods A total of 1,205 patients were randomly allocated to either ADT alone or ADT with RT. HRQOL was assessed at baseline and every 6 months thereafter using the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Core Questionnaire and a prostate cancer–specific checklist or the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy–Prostate questionnaire. Mean changes from baseline scores for five function domains and nine symptom domains were analyzed as those most relevant to ADT and RT. The proportions of patients with improved, stable, or worsened HRQOL scores according to instrument-specific minimal important differences were calculated. Results Baseline questionnaires were completed by 1,028 patients (88%). At 6 months, RT had a statistically significant impact on mean score for bowel symptoms (P = .02), diarrhea (P < .001), urinary function (P = .003), and erectile dysfunction (P = .008); by 3 years, however, there were no significant between-group differences in any domain. Generalized linear mixed modeling revealed no significant between-arm differences in any of the function scales but showed significant deterioration in both arms over time for Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy–Prostate total score, treatment outcome index, and physical and functional well-being. Conclusion The addition of RT to ADT for patients with locally advanced prostate cancer significantly improved overall survival and had only modest and transient negative impact on relevant domains of HRQOL. PMID:26014295

Prospective evaluation of PBC-specific health-related quality of life questionnaires in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis.

PubMed

Raszeja-Wyszomirska, Joanna; Wunsch, Ewa; Krawczyk, Marek; Rigopoulou, Eirini I; Bogdanos, Dimitrios; Milkiewicz, Piotr

2015-06-01

Primary biliary cirrhosis and Primary sclerosing cholangitis are autoimmune cholestatic liver diseases sharing a lot in common, including a significant impairment of patients' health-related quality of life HRQoL HRQoL in PBC is assessed with disease-specific PBC-40 and PBC-27 questionnaires. A PSC-specific questionnaire has not been developed. Neither PBC-40 nor PBC-27s applicability for PSC has been evaluated. We applied these three questionnaires for HRQoL assessment in a large homogenous cohort of PSC patients. This cross-sectional study enrolled 102 Caucasian PSCs and 53 matched healthy controls and measured HRQoL using generic SF-36, and disease-specific (PBC-40/PBC-27) questionnaires. (i) SF-36. Most SF-36 domains were significantly lower in PSCs than controls. Physical Functioning and Mental Component Summary scores were significantly lower in female patients and correlated negatively with age but not with concurrent inflammatory bowel disease. Cirrhosis was associated with lower Physical Functioning, Role Physical, General Health, Vitality and Physical Component Summary. (ii) PBC-40 and PBC-27. Both tools showed similar HRQoL impairment scoring. Fatigue and Cognitive were impaired in female patients. Several correlations existed between HRQoL and laboratory parameters, including cholestatic tests and Itch. Cirrhosis correlated with Other symptoms and Fatigue PBC-40. (iii) PBC-40 vs PBC-27. Strong correlations among most domains of both questionnaires were seen, as well as between (iv) SF-36 vs PBC-40 or SF-36 vs PBC-27. This is the first study directly comparing PBC-40, PBC-27 and SF-36 in PSC. PSC patients, especially females, show HRQoL impairment. PBC-40 and PBC-27 questionnaires could be of potential use for HRQoL assessment in PSC. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Impact of cough across different chronic respiratory diseases: comparison of two cough-specific health-related quality of life questionnaires.

PubMed

Polley, Liam; Yaman, Nurman; Heaney, Liam; Cardwell, Chris; Murtagh, Eimear; Ramsey, John; MacMahon, Joseph; Costello, Richard W; McGarvey, Lorcan

2008-08-01

Cough is a prominent symptom across a range of common chronic respiratory diseases and impacts considerably on patient health status. We undertook a cross-sectional comparison of scores from two cough-specific health-related quality of life (HRQoL) questionnaires, the Leicester Cough Questionnaire (LCQ), and the Cough Quality of Life Questionnaire (CQLQ), together with a generic HRQoL measure, the EuroQol. Questionnaires were administered to and spirometry performed on 147 outpatients with chronic cough (n = 83), COPD (n = 18), asthma (n = 20), and bronchiectasis (n = 26). There was no significant difference in the LCQ and CQLQ total scores between groups (p = 0.24 and p = 0.26, respectively). Exploratory analyses of questionnaire subdomains revealed differences in psychosocial issues and functional impairment between the four groups (p = 0.01 and p = 0.05, respectively). CQLQ scores indicated that chronic coughers have more psychosocial issues than patients with bronchiectasis (p = 0.03) but less functional impairment than COPD patients (p = 0.04). There was a significant difference in generic health status across the four disease groups (p = 0.04), with poorest health status in COPD patients. A significant inverse correlation was observed between CQLQ and LCQ in each disease group (chronic cough r = - 0.56, p < 0.001; COPD r = - 0.49, p = 0.04; asthma r = - 0.94, p < 0.001; and bronchiectasis r = - 0.88, p < 0.001). There was no correlation between cough questionnaire scores and FEV(1) in any group, although a significant correlation between EuroQol visual analog scale component and FEV(1) (r = 0.639, p = 0.004) was observed in COPD patients. Cough adversely affects health status across a range of common respiratory diseases. The LCQ and CQLQ can each provide important additional information concerning the impact of cough.

Measurement equivalence of four psychological questionnaires in native-born Germans, Russian-speaking immigrants, and native-born Russians.

PubMed

Hirsch, Oliver; Donner-Banzhoff, Norbert; Bachmann, Viktoria

2013-07-01

Psychological constructs depend on cultural context. It is therefore important to show the equivalence of measurement instruments in cross-cultural research. There is evidence that in Russian-speaking immigrants, cultural and language issues are important in health care. We examined measurement equivalence of the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), the Patient Health Questionnaire-15 (PHQ-15), the Hamburg Self-Care Questionnaire (HamSCQ), and the questionnaire on communication preferences of patients with chronic illness (KOPRA) in native-born Germans, Russian-speaking immigrants living in Germany, and native-born Russians living in the former Soviet Union (FSU). All four questionnaires fulfilled requirements of measurement equivalence in confirmatory factor analyses and analyses of differential item functioning. The Russian translations can be used in Russian-speaking immigrants and native-born Russians. This offers further possibilities for cross-cultural research and for an improvement in health care research in Russian-speaking immigrants in Germany. The most pronounced differences occurred in the KOPRA, which point to differences in German and Russian health care systems.

Body Image Disturbance in Patients with Acne Vulgaris

PubMed Central

Bowe, Whitney P.; Crerand, Canice E.; Margolis, David J.; Shalita, Alan R.

2011-01-01

Psychosocial outcome measures, which attempt to examine acne from the patient's perspective, have become increasingly important in dermatology research. One such measure is the Body Image Disturbance Questionnaire. The authors' primary aim was to determine the validity and internal consistency of the Body Image Disturbance Questionnaire in patients with acne vulgaris. The secondary aim was to investigate the relationship between body image disturbance and quality of life. This cross-sectional investigation included 52 consecutive acne patients presenting to an outpatient dermatology clinic. Subjects completed the Body Image Disturbance Questionnaire, Skindex-16, and other body image and psychosocial functioning measures. An objective assessment of acne was performed. The Body Image Disturbance Questionnaire was internally consistent and converged with other known body image indices. Body Image Disturbance Questionnaire scores also correlated with Skindex-16 scores, confirming that quality of life and body image are related psychosocial constructs. The Body Image Disturbance Questionnaire appears to be an accurate instrument that can assess appearance-related concern and impairment in patients with acne vulgaris. Limitations include a small sample size and the cross-sectional design. PMID:21779418

Replacement of the 6-Min Walk Test With Glittre ADL Test and Scores From the PFSDQ-M and HAP Questionnaires in the BODE Index.

PubMed

Moreira, Fabiana B R; de Fuccio, Marcelo B; Ribeiro-Samora, Giane Amorim; Velloso, Marcelo

2018-05-01

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease reduces functional capacity, which is strongly correlated with the morbidity and mortality of patients. The BODE index considers the multifactorial nature of the disease, including the functional capacity measured by the 6-min walk test (6MWT), and this index predicts the mortality in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Our aim was to assess whether association exists between the original BODE index and the modified BODE index by replacing the 6MWT with the scores from the Pulmonary Functional Status and Dyspnea Questionnaire-Modified version (PFSDQ-M), Human Activity Profile (HAP) questionnaire, and the results of the Glittre ADL Test (TGlittre). Twenty-eight subjects diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease underwent the 6MWT and TGlittre and responded to the PFSDQ-M and HAP questionnaires. Four BODE index scores were obtained: 1 calculated by using the original method (ie, using the 6MWT) and 3 others calculated by using the results obtained from the TGlittre, PFSDQ-M, and HAP (the modified BODE index scores). High levels of association were observed between the original BODE index and the BODE TGlittre (R = 0.824, P ≤ .0001), BODE PFSDQ-M (R = 0.803, P ≤ .0001), and BODE HAP (R = 0.500, P ≤ .0001). The BODE TGlittre, and BODE PFSDQ-M may be used as alternatives to the 6MWT when physical space is not available to perform the 6MWT or when the condition of a patient does not allow performance of the 6MWT.

Clinical experience with a chronic pain management programme in Hong Kong Chinese patients.

PubMed

Man, Alice K Y; Chu, M C; Chen, P P; Ma, M; Gin, Tony

2007-10-01

To describe experience with a chronic pain management programme in Hong Kong Chinese patients. Prospective study. Regional hospital, Hong Kong. Patients with chronic pain who participated in the first six Comprehensive Out-patient Pain Engagement programmes between 2002 and 2005. Comprehensive Out-patient Pain Engagement is a 14-day structured, multidisciplinary out-patient programme conducted over 6 weeks. It includes pain education, cognitive re-conceptualisation, training in communication skills and coping strategies, graded physical exercises and functional activities training. It aims to improve patient function and quality of life, despite persistent pain. Changes in scores from baseline values after joining the programme, with respect to several assessment tools. These included the following: visual analogue pain scale, Pain Catastrophizing Scale, Patient Self-efficacy Questionnaire, Canadian Occupational Performance Measure, Medical Outcome Survey-Short Form 36 Questionnaire, and duration of physical tolerances, medication utilisation, and work status records. Forty-five patients were available for analysis. After the Comprehensive Out-patient Pain Engagement programme, improvements in Medical Outcome Survey-Short Form 36 Questionnaire (role physical and vitality), Pain Catastrophizing Scale, Patient Self-efficacy Questionnaire, and Canadian Occupational Performance Measure were demonstrated (P<0.05). The duration of standing and sitting tolerances increased (P<0.05). An improvement in employment rate was also evident (P=0.01). The initial results of our management programme in Chinese patients with chronic pain are encouraging. This type of programme should be promoted more widely in this group of patients, as it appears to improve physical function, psychological well-being, and productivity.

Health-Related Quality of Life in Patients With α1 Antitrypsin Deficency: A Cross Sectional Study.

PubMed

Torres Redondo, Margarida; Campoa, Elsa; Ruano, Luis; Sucena, Maria

2017-02-01

Measures of health related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with α1-antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) can help to determine the impact of the disease and provide an important insight into the intervention outcomes. There is few data regarding this issue in the literature. The aim of this study is to assess the relationship between HRQoL and gender, functional parameters and history of hospitalizations in patients with AATD. This is a cross-sectional study of 26 patients with severe AATD recruited in the pulmonology outpatient clinic at a tertiary care medical center. Social-demographic, clinical and functional parameters were recorded and HRQoL was assessed with the Portuguese version of the medical outcome study short form-36 (SF-36) self-administered questionnaire. Older patients, females and patients with at least one hospitalization in the previous year due to respiratory disease had statistical lower scores in some dimensions of the SF-36 questionnaire. Superior FEV1 and higher distance mark in the 6-min walking test distance influenced positively several dimensions of the questionnaire. Higher scores in the mMRC scale influenced negatively the HRQoL. These data suggests that older and female patients with AATD have worse HRQoL. Hospitalizations and functional markers of respiratory disease progression influenced negatively the HRQoL, suggesting that the SF-36 questionnaire could be useful as an outcome for AATD patients with lung involvement. Copyright © 2016 SEPAR. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Evaluation of a health literacy screening tool in primary care patients: evidence from Serbia.

PubMed

Jović-Vraneš, Aleksandra; Bjegović-Mikanović, Vesna; Marinković, Jelena; Vuković, Dejana

2014-12-01

Improving health literacy skills is important for patient comprehension of health-related topics and their ability to attend to their medical problems. Promoting health literacy is a pivotal policy for maintaining and promoting health. The objective of the present study was to translate the Test of Functional Health Literacy in Adults (TOFHLA; long and short versions) into Serbian and evaluate the translated and cross-culturally adapted questionnaires in Serbian primary care patients. The translated TOFHLA questionnaires were administered to 120 patients. Additionally, a self-completed questionnaire was used. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were measured. The mean score for the TOFHLA was 73.49 (median, 78; SD = 17.94; range, 0-100) and the mean score for the Short Test of Functional Health Literacy in Adults (STOFHLA) was 29.28 (median, 32; SD = 6.16; range, 0-36). Sex, age, education, self-perceived health and presence of any chronic disease were associated with health literacy scores. The internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha) was 0.73 for the TOFHLA numeracy subset, 0.95 for reading comprehension, 0.94 for the TOFHLA and 0.90 for the STOFHLA. The Pearson correlation between the TOFHLA and STOFHLA was 0.89. The area under the curve of these two tests was 0.79 (95% CI, 0.602-0.817). The Serbian translated versions of the TOHFLA questionnaires offer valid measures of functional health literacy. There were no differences between the reliability and validity of the short and long TOFHLA forms. © The Author (2013). Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

How are memory complaints in functional memory disorder related to measures of affect, metamemory and cognition?

PubMed

Metternich, Birgitta; Schmidtke, Klaus; Hüll, Michael

2009-05-01

Memory complaints are a common finding in outpatients, especially in psychosomatic and neurological practice. In a substantial group of patients persistent memory complaints are found in the absence of abnormal neuropsychology. Different labels such as "functional memory complaint" have been suggested for this phenomenon. We characterise a group of patients with such memory complaints, which we termed functional memory disorder (FMD). The aim of the present study is to describe patients with FMD. Thirty-nine patients with FMD were compared to 38 control subjects. Data were collected on the German version of the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning test and the Zahlenverbindungstest (cognitive speed), subscales of the Metamemory in Adulthood questionnaire (MIA), the Perceived Stress Questionnaire (PSQ), the Global Severity Index (GSI) of the Symptom Checklist, the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and other psychological questionnaire measures. We found significant group differences on all psychological questionnaire measures, with more pathological scores in the patient group. GSI and PSQ were the best predictors of memory self-efficacy. MIA-Memory Self-Efficacy (MSE), MIA-Achievement, and BDI were the best predictors of group membership (FMD vs. control group). When MSE was excluded, MIA-Achievement and BDI or GSI were the only predictors of group membership. Neuropsychological measures predicted neither MSE nor group membership. Pathological scores on measures of metamemory, stress, and depression are typical of FMD. Low MSE and a high memory-related achievement motivation seem to be key features of FMD. Other important features are increased perceived stress, general psychosomatic complaint, and elevated depression scores. Neuropsychological test performance is not associated with FMD symptoms.

Assessing the burden of childhood asthma: validation of electronic versions of the Mini Pediatric and Pediatric Asthma Caregiver's Quality of Life Questionnaires.

PubMed

Minard, Janice P; Thomas, Nicola J; Olajos-Clow, Jennifer G; Wasilewski, Nastasia V; Jenkins, Blaine; Taite, Ann K; Day, Andrew G; Lougheed, M Diane

2016-01-01

To validate electronic versions of the Mini Pediatric and Pediatric Asthma Caregiver's Quality of Life Questionnaires (MiniPAQLQ and PACQLQ, respectively), determine completion times and correlate QOL of children and caregivers. A total of 63 children and 64 caregivers completed the paper and electronic MiniPAQLQ or PACQLQ. Agreement between versions of each questionnaire was summarized by intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC). The correlation between MiniPAQLQ and PACQLQ scores from child-caregiver pairs was assessed using Pearson's correlation coefficient. There was no significant difference (mean difference = 0.1, 95% CI -0.1, 0.2) in MiniPAQLQ Overall Scores between paper (5.9 ± 1.0, mean ± SD) and electronic (5.8 ± 1.0) versions, or any of the domains. ICCs ranged from 0.89 (Overall) to 0.86 (Emotional Function). Overall PACQLQ scores for both versions were comparable (5.9 ± 0.9 and 5.8 ± 1.0; mean difference = 0.0; 95% CI -0.1, 0.2). ICCs ranged from 0.81 (Activity Limitation) to 0.88 (Emotional Function). The electronic PACQLQ took 26 s longer (95% CI 11, 41; p < 0.001). Few participants (3-11%) preferred the paper format. MiniPAQLQ and PACQLQ scores were significantly correlated (all p < 0.05) for Overall (r paper = 0.33, r electronic = 0.27) and Emotional Function domains (r paper = 0.34, r electronic = 0.29). These electronic QOL questionnaires are valid, and asthma-related QOL of children and caregivers is related.

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).

The contribution of social capital and coping strategies to functioning and quality of life of patients with fibromyalgia.

PubMed

Boehm, Amnon; Eisenberg, Elon; Lampel, Shirly

2011-01-01

The study aimed to determine the degree to which social capital (a combination of social resources that can be beneficial to a person's physical health and well-being), personal coping strategies, and additional personal and disease-related factors, contribute to the functioning and quality of life (QoL) of fibromyalgia (FM) patients. In the assessment of their functioning and QoL, 175 Israeli FM patients completed the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) and the Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) (dependent variables). In addition, they completed a modified Social Capital Questionnaires (which tests 3 subtypes of social capital: bonding, bridging, and linking), COPE-Multidimensional Coping Inventory (measures the use of problem vs. emotional-focused coping strategies), and a personal demographic questionnaire (independent variables). A multivariate regression analysis was used to assess the relative contribution of each independent variable to functioning and QoL of these patients. The regression analysis showed that: (1) Bonding social capital and particularly the friend-connections component of bonding social capital contributed to the FIQ score and to the SF-36 parameters of social function, mental health, and bodily pain. (2) Problem-focused coping strategy contributed to the mental health parameter of the SF-36, whereas emotional-focused coping strategy contributed negatively to the FIQ score and to the mental health, general health, and bodily pain parameters of the SF-36. (3) In addition, duration of FM symptoms contributed to the SF-36 parameters of general health, social function, mental health, and bodily pain but not to the FIQ score; whereas, work status contributed significantly to the variance of FIQ. Bonding social capital, problem-solving coping strategies, and the duration of FM contribute positively to functioning and QoL of FM patients; whereas, emotional-focused coping strategies do the opposite. Further research to test the effects of strengthened social capital and enhanced problem-solving rather than emotion-focused coping strategies on functioning and QoL of FM patients is warranted.

Somatic-Affective, But Not Cognitive-Depressive Symptoms are Associated With Reduced Health-Related Quality of Life in Patients With Congestive Heart Failure.

PubMed

Patron, Elisabetta; Messerotti Benvenuti, Simone; Lopriore, Vincenzo; Aratari, Jenny; Palomba, Daniela

Depression has been associated with poor health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with congestive heart failure (CHF). However, to date, whether somatic-affective and cognitive-depressive symptoms differently contribute to poor HRQoL and behavioral functional capacity in patients with CHF has yet to be investigated. To examine the differential influence of somatic-affective vs cognitive-depressive symptoms on HRQoL and behavioral functional capacity in CHF patients. Overall, 55 patients with CHF completed a psychologic evaluation, including the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire, the Beck Depression Inventory-II, and the Beck Anxiety Inventory for HRQoL, depressive, and anxiety symptoms, respectively. The patients completed the Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Questionnaire and the 6-minute walk test for behavioral functional capacity. Hierarchical regression analyses were used to predict HRQoL and behavioral functional capacity from Beck Depression Inventory-II and Beck Anxiety Inventory scores. Somatic-affective depressive symptoms were associated with physical (β = 0.37, p = 0.005) and emotional (β = 0.39, p = 0.008) Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire subscale scores. Likewise, somatic-affective depressive symptoms predicted Instrumental Activities of Daily Livings Scores (β = 0.43, p = 0.004) and distance ambulated during the 6-minute walk test (β = -0.36, p = 0.029). By contrast, cognitive-depressive symptoms and anxiety were unrelated to HRQoL and behavioral functional capacity (all p > 0.05). These findings showed that somatic-affective depressive symptoms, but not cognitive-depressive symptoms and anxiety, are associated with poor HRQoL and behavioral functional capacity independent of age, clinical functional status, and medical comorbidities. This study suggests that patients with CHF with somatic-affective rather than cognitive-depressive symptoms or anxiety may be at greater risk of poor HRQoL and behavioral functional capacity. Copyright © 2017 The Academy of Psychosomatic Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The second version of the L. V. Prasad-functional vision questionnaire.

PubMed

Gothwal, Vijaya K; Sumalini, Rebecca; Bharani, Seelam; Reddy, Shailaja P; Bagga, Deepak K

2012-11-01

The L. V. Prasad-Functional Vision Questionnaire (LVP-FVQ) was developed using Rasch analysis to assess self-reported difficulties in performing daily tasks in school children with visual impairment (VI) in India. However, the LVP-FVQ has psychometric problems of inadequate measurement precision and lack of detailed assessment of dimensionality. Furthermore, items pertaining to use of technology are lacking. The aim of this study was to present the development and validation of the second version of LVP-FVQ (LVP-FVQ II). Development of LVP-FVQ II involved extracting items from other similar questionnaires (albeit developed for Western populations) and focus group discussions of children with VI and their parents that resulted in a 32-item pilot questionnaire. Overall, six items from the LVP-FVQ were retained. The questionnaire underwent pilot testing in 25 such children, following which a 27-item LVP-FVQ II emerged, and this was administered to 150 children with VI. Response to each item was rated on a three-category scale. Rasch analysis was used to validate the LVP-FVQ II. Rating scale was used by participants as was intended to. Four mobility-related items required deletion, as these did not contribute toward measurement of a single construct, indicating a secondary dimension. Deletion of the four items resulted in the 23-item unidimensional LVP-FVQ II, with good measurement precision, effective targeting of item difficulty to participant ability, and lack of notable differential item functioning. The LVP-FVQ II has high reliability, indicating that it is effectively able to discriminate between visual disability of school children in India, and is valid across age, gender, duration of VI, and location of residence. Given the superior measurement properties and the interval-level scores, the LVP-FVQ II appears to offer advantages over LVP-FVQ in assessment of difficulties in performing daily tasks in this population. It can be adapted for use in other developing countries.

Psychological and physical correlates of musculoskeletal symptoms in male professional divers and offshore workers

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Underwater divers are more likely to complain of musculoskeletal symptoms than a control population. Accordingly, we conducted a study to determine whether musculoskeletal symptoms reflected observable physical disorder, to ascertain the relationship between symptoms and measures of mood, memory and executive function and to assess any need for future screening. Methods A 10% random sample of responders to a prior postal health questionnaire was examined (151 divers, 120 non-diving offshore workers). Participants underwent physical examination and a neuropsychological test battery for memory and executive function. Participants also completed the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale for anxiety (HADSa) and depression (HADSd), and questionnaires for physical health-related quality of life (SF36 PCS), mental health-related quality of life (SF36 MCS), memory (Cognitive Failures Questionnaire (CFQ), Prospective and Retrospective Memory Questionnaire (PRMQ)), executive function (dysexecutive syndrome questionnaire (DEX)), musculoskeletal symptoms (MSS) and general unrelated symptom reporting. Results Of participants with moderate/severe musculoskeletal symptoms, 52% had physical signs, and of participants with no symptoms, 73% had no physical signs. There was no difference in the prevalence of signs or symptoms between groups. Musculoskeletal symptoms were associated with lower SF36 PCS for both groups. In divers, musculoskeletal symptoms were associated with higher general unrelated symptom reporting and poorer scoring for HADSa, PRMQ, CFQ and DEX with scores remaining within the normative range. A positive physical examination was associated with general unrelated symptom reporting in divers. There were no differences in neuropsychological test scores attributable to either group or musculoskeletal symptoms. Conclusions Musculoskeletal symptoms were associated with physical signs, but this was not a strong effect. Reporting of musculoskeletal symptoms by the divers studied was also associated with a tendency to report symptoms generally or somatisation, and caution should be exercised regarding their interpretation as an indication of physical disease or their use for health screening. PMID:23849557

Reliability and validity of abbreviated surveys derived from the National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire: The Study of Osteoporotic Fractures

PubMed Central

Gergana, Kodjebacheva; Coleman, Anne L.; Ensrud, Kristine E.; Cauley, Jane A.; Yu, Fei; Stone, Katie L.; Pedula, Kathryn L.; Hochberg, Marc C.; Mangione, Carol M.

2010-01-01

Purpose To test the reliability and validity of questionnaires shortened from the National Eye Institute 25-item Vision Function Questionnaire (NEI VFQ-9 and NEI VFQ-8). Design A cross-sectional multi-center cohort study. Methods Reliability was assessed by Cronbach alpha coefficients. Validity was evaluated by studying the association of vision-targeted quality-of-life composite scores with objective visual function measurements. Study population: A total of 5,482 women between the ages of 65 and 100 years participated in the Year-10 clinic visit in the Study of Osteoporotic Fractures (SOF). A total of 3,631 women with complete data were included in the visual acuity (VA) and visual field (VF) analysis of the NEI VFQ-9, which is defined for those who care to drive. and 5,311 in the analysis of the NEI VFQ-8. To assess differences in prevalent eye diseases, which were ascertained for a random sample of SOF participants, 853 and 1,237 women were included in the NEI VFQ-9 and the NEI VFQ-8 analyses, respectively. Results Cronbach alpha coefficient for the NEI VFQ-9 scale was 0.83 and that of the NEI VFQ-8 was 0.84. Using both questionnaires, women with VA worse than 20/40 had lower composite scores compared to those with VA 20/40 or better (p<0.001). Participants with mild, moderate, and severe binocular VF loss had lower composite scores compared to those with no binocular VF loss (p<0.001).Compared to women without chronic eye diseases in both eyes, women with at least one chronic eye disease in at least one eye had lower composite scores. Conclusions Both questionnaires showed high reliability across items and validity with respect to clinical markers of eye disease Future research should compare the properties of these shortened surveys to those of the NEI VFQ-25. PMID:20103058

Postoperative perceived health status in adolescent following idiopathic scoliosis surgical treatment: results using the adapted French version of Scoliosis Research Society Outcomes questionnaire (SRS-22).

PubMed

Chaib, Y; Bachy, M; Zakine, S; Mary, P; Khouri, N; Vialle, R

2013-06-01

Assessing functional outcome from patient-based outcomes questionnaires are essential to the evaluation of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis surgical treatment At the minimum follow-up of 2 years, 45 operated on adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients were mailed the French version of the Scoliosis Research Society Outcome Instrument (SRS-22) questionnaires containing items on pain, activities of daily living, and satisfaction. Mean values of the SRS-22 domains were 3,66 for the Pain domain, 3,85 for the Self-perceived image domain, 4,32 for the Function domain, 3,52 for the Mental health domain and 4,12 for the Global satisfaction with management domain. Mean value of the global SRS-22 score was 3,88. We showed no differences in functional SRS-22 health status in patients according to the type of curve (Lenke classification). We showed statistically significant correlations between the gain of Cobb angle and Patients self-image and function domain scores. There was a statistically significant correlation between preoperative Cobb angle and patient satisfaction with management. Even if Function and Self-image scores in our patients are close to control group values, indicating good short to mid-term outcome of surgical treatment, scores for pain and mental health status were significantly lower in patients than controls. Long-term follow-up studies conducted by multiple surgeons over successive generations are mandatory to assess clinical significance of these differences. Level IV. Retrospective study. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Neuropsychological, neurological and functional outcome following pallidotomy for Parkinson's disease. A consecutive series of eight simultaneous bilateral and twelve unilateral procedures.

PubMed

Scott, R; Gregory, R; Hines, N; Carroll, C; Hyman, N; Papanasstasiou, V; Leather, C; Rowe, J; Silburn, P; Aziz, T

1998-04-01

Intellectual, psychological and functional outcomes were evaluated in a consecutive series of 20 Parkinsonian patients who had unilateral (UPVP) or simultaneous bilateral posteroventral pallidotomy (BPVP) using Image Fusion and Stereoplan (Radionics Inc., Boston, Mass., USA) with stimulation for lesion localization. Comprehensive baseline and 3-month postoperative neuropsychological and neurological assessment protocols were administered together with questionnaire measures of functional disability, quality of life and psychological symptomatology. Changes in patients' clinical presentation and scores on psychometric tests, questionnaires and observational rating scales were then examined. We observed no new neuropsychiatric sequelae directly related to pallidotomy. Cognitive sequelae were restricted to selective reductions in categorical verbal fluency following UPVP (P < 0.001) and BPVP (P < 0.01) and a reduction in phonemic verbal fluency following BPVP (P < 0.01); these changes were not reported subjectively. A fall in diadochokinetic rates (P < 0.01) and some subjective reports of a worsening in pre-existing dysarthria, hypophonia and hypersalivation/drooling following BPVP also suggested changes in speech motor apparatus; however, these changes did not have significant functional consequences. There was one case of more generalized cognitive impairment following BPVP. We also observed significant symptomatic improvement on neurological rating scales; following UPVP, Total Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) scores improved by 27% (P < 0.01) and following BPVP the improvement was 53% (P < 0.05). Patients' perceptions of reduced postoperative functional disability and improvements in 'quality of life' also achieved statistical significance on a number of both physical and psychosocial questionnaire subscales.

What questionnaires to use when measuring quality of life in sacral tumor patients: the updated sacral tumor survey.

PubMed

van Wulfften Palthe, Olivier D R; Janssen, Stein J; Wunder, Jay S; Ferguson, Peter C; Wei, Guo; Rose, Peter S; Yaszemski, Micheal J; Sim, Franklin H; Boland, Patrick J; Healey, John H; Hornicek, Francis J; Schwab, Joseph H

2017-05-01

Patient-reported outcomes are becoming increasingly important when investigating results of patient and disease management. In sacral tumor, the symptoms of patients can vary substantially; therefore, no single questionnaire can adequately account for the full spectrum of symptoms and disability. The purpose of this study is to analyze redundancy within the current sacral tumor survey and make a recommendation for an updated version based on the results and patient and expert opinions. A survey study from a tertiary care orthopedic oncology referral center was used. The patient sample included 70 patients with sacral tumors (78% chordoma). The following 10 questionnaires included in the current sacral tumor survey were evaluated: the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Global Item short form, PROMIS Pain Intensity short form, PROMIS Pain Interference short form, PROMIS Neuro-QOL v1.0 Lower Extremity Function short form, PROMIS v1.0 Anxiety short form, the PROMIS v1.0 Depression short form, the International Continence Society Male short form, the Modified Obstruction-Defecation Syndrome questionnaire, the PROMIS Sexual Function Profile v1.0, and the Stoma Quality of Life tool. We performed an exploratory factor analysis to calculate the possible underlying latent traits. Spearman rank correlation coefficients were used to measure to what extent the questionnaires converged. We hypothesized the existence of six domains based on current literature: mental health, physical health, pain, gastrointestinal symptoms, sexual function, and urinary incontinence. To assess content validity, we surveyed 32 patients, 9 orthopedic oncologists, 1 medical oncologist, 1 radiation oncologist, and 1 orthopedic oncology nurse practitioner with experience in treating sacral tumor patients on the relevance of the domains. Reliability as measured by Cronbach alpha ranged from 0.65 to 0.96. Coverage measured by floor and ceiling effects ranged from 0% to 52% and from 0% to 30%, respectively. Explanatory factor analysis identified three traits to which the questionnaires that were expected to measure a similar construct correlated the most: mental health, physical function, and pain. Content validity index demonstrated low disagreement among patients (range: 0.10-0.18) and high agreement among physicians (range: 0.91-1.0) on the relevance of the proposed domains. Social health was identified by 50% of the commenting patients as an important yet missing domain. The current sacral tumor survey is incomplete and time-consuming, and not all surveys are appropriate for the sacral tumor population. Our recommended survey contains less than half the questions and includes the newly recognized social health domain. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINANTS OF LUNG FUNCTION IN CHILDREN

EPA Science Inventory

Using pulmonary function and family respiratory questionnaire data for 16,689 white children 6 to 13 yr of age from 7 geographic areas, the investigators examined the effect of several environmental and other factors on performance in a standard test of breathing. As expected, FE...

Mental health of residents during Obstetrics and Gynecology training in Thailand.

PubMed

Prasertsiri, K; Suntharasaj, T; Pitanupong, J

2006-03-01

To evaluate mental health of residents during Obstetrics and Gynecology training and identify the factors that affect mental health problems. During January-April 2004, one hundred and sixty Obstetrics and Gynecology residents (62% of 259) had completed a self-administered questionnaire composed of demographic data, workload, self-report of life stressors, and the Thai Mental Health Questionnaire (TMHQ-70). The prevalence of mental health problems was 29% (46/160). Somatization and social function were found in the first and second rank (18.1% and 11.9%), respectively. A resident who was younger than 25 years old, was married, cared for more than 20 patients per 8 hours in the labor room, performed more than 10 academic activities per year, or attended more than 5 examinations per year was at risk to develop social function problems. About one-third of residents training in Obstetrics and Gynecology have faced mental health problems--somatization, social function, depression and anxiety. The significant risk factors associated with social function problems were younger age, marriage and excessive workload

Childhood cruelty to animals in China: the relationship with psychological adjustment and family functioning.

PubMed

Wong, J; Mellor, D; Richardson, B; Xu, X

2013-09-01

The current study broadened the general scope of research conducted on childhood cruelty to animals by examining the association between psychological adjustment, family functioning and animal cruelty in an Eastern context, China. The mothers and fathers of 729 children attending primary school in Chengdu, China participated in this study. Each parent completed the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, the Chinese Family Assessment Instrument, and the Children's Attitudes and Behaviours towards Animals questionnaire. Findings from an actor partner interdependence model demonstrated that parents' ratings of family functioning and of their child's externalizing coping style predicted only modest amounts of variance in animal cruelty. In particular, parents' ratings of their child's externalizing coping style most consistently predicted animal cruelty. Family functioning, fathers' ratings in particular, played a minor role, more so for boys compared with girls. This study provided the first insight into childhood animal cruelty in China, and suggests that further research may enhance our understanding of these phenomena. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Assessing lung function and respiratory health in schoolchildren as a means to improve local environmental conditions.

PubMed

Hutter, Hans-Peter; Borsoi, Livia; Wallner, Peter; Moshammer, Hanns; Kundi, Michael

2009-07-01

In response to the World Health Organization Children's Environment and Health Action Plan for Europe (CEHAPE), a town near Vienna initiated a health survey of schoolchildren. To create recommendations for the community's decision makers, the health survey tried to identify the environmental factors influencing the respiratory health of children. The survey consisted of a questionnaire and spirometry. For 186 of 207 children of first and second grade, parents consented to include their children and answered a questionnaire. Spirometry was performed in 177 children. Results of lung function testing revealed that lung function was significantly reduced in children with visible mould infestation at home and living on a street with frequent lorry traffic. Larger family size and living in a rural area had positive effects on lung function. Our study provides an example for a feasible strategy to provide local decision makers with recommendations based on scientific evidence and actual observations and to help them implement measures in accordance with CEHAPE.

[Gender influence on health related quality of life among resident physicians working in an emergency department].

PubMed

Fernández-Prada, María; González-Cabrera, Joaquín; Torres G, Francisco; Iribar-Ibabe, Concepción; María Peinado, José

2014-02-01

The high emotional burden of physicians working in emergency departments may affect their quality of life perception. To evaluate health related quality of life among resident physicians performing shifts at an emergency department. Seventy one physicians aged 26,3 ± 1,7 years (47 women), working as residents in an emergency department, answered the short version of the Short-Form Health Survey Questionnaire (SF-36®). This questionnaire analyses eight domains: physical function, body pain, general health, vitality, social function, emotional role and mental health. Women had a significantly worse perception than a reference population in four dimensions of the SF-36, especially mental health and social functioning. Men had scores similar to the reference population. Among women, vitality is the best predictor of mental health and social functioning. Women working as residents in an emergency department have a worse perception of their quality of life than men performing the same job.

Syntax for calculation of discounting indices from the monetary choice questionnaire and probability discounting questionnaire.

PubMed

Gray, Joshua C; Amlung, Michael T; Palmer, Abraham A; MacKillop, James

2016-09-01

The 27-item Monetary Choice Questionnaire (MCQ; Kirby, Petry, & Bickel, 1999) and 30-item Probability Discounting Questionnaire (PDQ; Madden, Petry, & Johnson, 2009) are widely used, validated measures of preferences for immediate versus delayed rewards and guaranteed versus risky rewards, respectively. The MCQ measures delayed discounting by asking individuals to choose between rewards available immediately and larger rewards available after a delay. The PDQ measures probability discounting by asking individuals to choose between guaranteed rewards and a chance at winning larger rewards. Numerous studies have implicated these measures in addiction and other health behaviors. Unlike typical self-report measures, the MCQ and PDQ generate inferred hyperbolic temporal and probability discounting functions by comparing choice preferences to arrays of functions to which the individual items are preconfigured. This article provides R and SPSS syntax for processing the MCQ and PDQ. Specifically, for the MCQ, the syntax generates k values, consistency of the inferred k, and immediate choice ratios; for the PDQ, the syntax generates h indices, consistency of the inferred h, and risky choice ratios. The syntax is intended to increase the accessibility of these measures, expedite the data processing, and reduce risk for error. © 2016 Society for the Experimental Analysis of Behavior.

[Prevalence of depression and body dysmorphic disorder in patients before functional rhinosurgery].

PubMed

Bender, M; Rustige, L; Lindemann, J

2014-11-01

Psychiatric disorders are known to influence the result of many surgical procedures. Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is found in many patients undergoing plastic surgery. The prevalence before functional rhinosurgery has not been examined so far. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of depression and BDD before functional rhinosurgery. 201 patients were prospectively examined with a questionnaire before functional rhinosurgery. Beck-Depression-Index was used to rate depression, the PISA body dsymorphic symptom scale was used to evaluate the likelihood that a patient suffers from body dysmoprhic disorder. 186 patients returned a complete questionnaire. In 33.9% showed a mild or strong indication for a body dysmorphic disorder. Patients who were planned to undergo septorhinoplasty had a significantly higher scores in the PISA-scale compared to patients before septoplasty. 1.7% patients were depressive without a significant difference between the planned surgical procedure. Many patients before functional septorhinoplasty show signs of body dysmorphic disorder. Whether this influences the subjective clinical outcome needs to be evaluated in further studies. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Coping style as a mediator between attachment and mental and physical health in patients suffering from morbid obesity.

PubMed

Aarts, Floor; Hinnen, Chris; Gerdes, Victor E A; Acherman, Yair; Brandjes, Dees P M

2014-01-01

The presence of mental health problems and limitations in physical functioning is high in patients suffering from morbid obesity. The purpose of the current study was to examine the mediating role of coping style in the relationship between attachment representations and mental health and physical functioning in a morbidly obese population. A total of 299 morbidly obese patients who were referred to the Slotervaart bariatric surgery unit in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, completed self-report questionnaires assessing adult attachment style (Experiences in Close Relationship-Revised Questionnaire), coping style (Utrecht Coping List), and patients physical functioning and mental health (Short Form-36). Attachment anxiety (beta = -.490, p < .001) and attachment avoidance (3 = -.387, p < .001) were both found to be related to mental health. In addition, attachment anxiety was also found to be related to physical functioning (beta = - .188,p < .001). Coping style partly mediated these associations. Findings suggest that coping mediates the association between attachment anxiety and attachment avoidance on the one hand and mental health and physical functioning in patients with morbid obesity on the other hand.

[Functional limitations associated with lumbosacral spine pain in pregnant women].

PubMed

Brylewska-Pinda, Magdalena; Kemicer-Chmielewska, Ewa; Pierzak-Sominka, Joanna; Mosiejczuk, Hanna

Lower back pain affects most pregnant women. Pain is often associated with varying degrees of functional limitations, causing a problem for pregnant women in the performance of many everyday activities. The aim of the study was to assess the extent to which lumbosacral spine pain caused limitations in the daily functioning of pregnant women, and the relationship between reported restrictions and analysed variables. The study was conducted in the city of Szczecin in Poland among 81 pregnant women. Data were collected using a standardized Oswestry questionnaire survey (The Oswestry Lower Back Pain Disability Questionnaire). Results were analysed using the χ² test of independence. The signiicance level was adopted at p < 0.05. The majority of women pregnant for the second time (n = 38) had mild disability. The relationship between the degree of disability and the order of pregnancies was statistically signi icant (χ² = 40.457, p = 0.0000000085). The majority of pregnant women had minor functional limitations due to pain in the lumbosacral spine region. The degree of functional limitations depends on the trimester of pregnancy and the order of pregnancies.

Receptive Vocabulary Knowledge in Low-Functioning Autism as Assessed by Eye Movements, Pupillary Dilation, and Event-Related Potentials

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-06-01

screening questionnaire for Asperger Syndrome and other high-functioning autism spectrum disorders in school age children. Journal of Autism...populations in whom behavioral responses are expected to be reliable: normal adults, normally developing children, and higher -functioning...additional 7 participants with autism were recruited for participation. Of these, 5 were determined to be higher -functioning. These participants were asked

Psychosexual Functioning of Cognitively-Able Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder Compared to Typically Developing Peers: The Development and Testing of the Teen Transition Inventory--A Self- and Parent Report Questionnaire on Psychosexual Functioning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dekker, Linda P.; van der Vegt, Esther J. M.; van der Ende, Jan; Tick, Nouchka; Louwerse, Anneke; Maras, Athanasios; Verhulst, Frank C.; Greaves-Lord, Kirstin

2017-01-01

To gain further insight into psychosexual functioning, including behaviors, intrapersonal and interpersonal aspects, in adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), comprehensive, multi-informant measures are needed. This study describes (1) the development of a new measure of psychosexual functioning in both parent- and self-reports (Teen…

Functional capacity evaluation of work performance among individuals with pelvic injuries following motor vehicle accidents.

PubMed

Ratzon, Navah Z; Ari Shevil, Eynat Ben; Froom, Paul; Friedman, Sharon; Amit, Yehuda

2013-01-01

Pelvic injuries following motor vehicle accidents (MVA) cause disability and affect work capabilities. This study evaluated functional, self-report, and medical-based factors that could predict work capacity as was reflected in a functional capacity evaluation (FCE) among persons who sustained a pelvic injury. It was hypothesized that self-reported functional status and bio-demographic variables would predict work capacity. Sixty-one community-dwelling adults previously hospitalized following a MVA induced pelvic injury. FCE for work performance was conducted using the Physical Work Performance Evaluation (PWPE). Additional data was collected through a demographics questionnaire and the Functional Status Questionnaire. All participants underwent an orthopedic medical examination of the hip and lower extremities. Most participants self-reported that their work capacity post-injury were lower than their job required. PWPE scores indicated below-range functional performance. Regression models predicted 23% to 51% of PWPE subtests. Participants' self-report of functioning (instrumental activities of daily living and work) and bio-demographic variables (gender and age) were better predictors of PWPE scores than factors originating from the medical examination. Results support the inclusion of FCE, in addition to self-report of functioning and medical examination, to evaluate work capacity among individuals' post-pelvic injury and interventions and discharge planning.

Assessing self-efficacy to reduce one's drinking: further evaluation of the Alcohol Reduction Strategies-Current Confidence questionnaire.

PubMed

Kraus, Shane W; Rosenberg, Harold; Bonar, Erin E; Hoffmann, Erica; Kryszak, Elizabeth; Young, Kathleen M; Ashrafioun, Lisham; Bannon, Erin E

2012-01-01

To evaluate the psychometric properties of a previously published questionnaire designed to assess young drinkers' self-efficacy to employ 31 cognitive-behavioral alcohol reduction strategies. Undergraduates (n = 353) recruited from a large Midwestern university completed the previously published Alcohol Reduction Strategies-Current Confidence questionnaire (and other measures) for a self-selected heavy drinking setting. Item loadings from a principal components analysis, a high internal consistency reliability coefficient, and a moderate mean inter-item correlation suggested that all 31 items comprised a single scale. Correlations of questionnaire scores with selected aspects of drinking history and personality provided support for criterion and discriminant validity, respectively. Women reported higher current confidence to use these strategies than did men, but current confidence did not vary as a function of recent binge status. Given this further demonstration of its psychometric qualities, this questionnaire holds promise as a clinical tool to identify clients who lack confidence in their ability to employ cognitive-behavioral coping strategies to reduce their drinking.

Time Burden of Standardized Hip Questionnaires.

PubMed

Chughtai, Morad; Khlopas, Anton; Mistry, Jaydev B; Gwam, Chukwuweike U; Elmallah, Randa K; Mont, Michael A

2016-04-01

Many standardized scales and questionnaires have been developed to assess outcomes of patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA). However, these surveys can be a burden to both patients and orthopaedists as some are time-inefficient. In addition, there is a paucity of reports assessing the time it takes to complete them. In this study we aimed to: (1) assess how long it takes to complete the most common standardized hip questionnaires; (2) determine the presence of variation in completion time; and (3) evaluate the effects of age, gender, and level of education on completion time. Based on a previous study, we selected the seven most commonly used hip scoring systems-Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Hip Outcome Assessment (WOMAC), Harris Hip Score (HHS), Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS), Larson Score, Short-form 36 (SF-36), modified Merle d'Aubigne and Postel Score (MDA), and Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS). The standardized scales and questionnaires were randomly administered to 70 subjects. The subjects were unaware that they were being timed during completion of the questionnaire. We obtained the coefficients of variation of time for each questionnaire. The mean time to complete the questionnaire was then stratified and compared based on age, gender, and level of education. The mean time to complete each of the systems is listed in ascending order: Modified Merle d'Aubigne and Postel Score (MDA), Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Hip Outcome Assessment (WOMAC), Harris Hip Score (HHS), Larson Score, Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS), and Short-form 36 (SF-36). The WOMAC and Larson Score coefficients of variation were the largest, and the HOOS and MDA were the smallest. There was a significantly higher mean time to completion in those who were above or equal to the age of 55 years as compared to those who were below the age of 55 (227 vs. 166 seconds). There was no significant association found in time of completion between gender or education level. Standardized scales and questionnaire which assess THA patients can be burdensome and time-inefficient, which may lead to task-induced fatigue. This may result in inaccurate THA patient assessments, which do not reflect the patient's true state. Future studies should aim to create an encompassing questionnaire that is time efficient and can replace all currently used validated systems.

Subjective perception of sleep benefit in Parkinson's disease: Valid or irrelevant?

PubMed

Lee, Will; Evans, Andrew; Williams, David R

2017-09-01

The phenomenon of sleep benefit (SB) in Parkinson's disease (PD), whereby waking motor function is improved despite no dopaminergic treatment overnight, is controversial. Previous studies suggested a significant discrepancy between subjective functional and objective motor improvement. The aim of this study was to determine how well subjective reporting of SB correlates with objective measures and if true motor improvement can be predicted by a standardized questionnaire. Ninety-two patients with PD participated. A structured questionnaire was developed to assess subjective SB. Quantitative motor assessment was performed using a validated smartphone application. Objective motor SB was considered to be present when the waking motor function was similar or superior to the daytime on-state. Twenty (22%) patients showed objective motor improvement on waking compared to end-of-dose. Most patients (77%) reported subjective SB without corresponding objective motor benefit. Our structured questionnaire could not predict Motor SB. The ability to delay morning medications and a perception of indifference or paradoxical worsening following the morning levodopa dose may suggest Motor SB. Most patients experience subjective SB with no measureable motor improvement. This perceived benefit could be related to non-motor improvement that is distinctly different to objective motor benefit. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Analysis of risk factors for mild cognitive impairment based on word list memory test results and questionnaire responses in healthy Japanese individuals registered in an online database.

PubMed

Ogawa, Masayo; Sone, Daichi; Maruo, Kazushi; Shimada, Hiroyuki; Suzuki, Keisuke; Watanabe, Hiroshi; Matsuda, Hiroshi; Mizusawa, Hidehiro

2018-01-01

Although the development of effective therapeutic drugs and radical treatment options for dementia and Alzheimer's disease (AD) remains urgent, progress in recent clinical trials of AD drugs has been less than adequate. In order to advance the progress of clinical trials, it is necessary to establish more efficient methods of recruitment. In Japan, there are registration systems stratified by mild cognitive impairment and preclinical and clinical stages of early and advanced stage dementia, but there is no registration system for healthy individuals yet. Therefore, in the present study, we developed a large-scale, internet-based health registry to investigate factors associated with cognitive function among registered participants. A total of 1038 participants completed the initial questionnaire and word list memory test. Among these participants, 353 individuals completed a second questionnaire and memory test. Stepwise multiple regression analysis was performed using IBM SPSS version 23.0 for Windows at a statistical significance level of p<0.05. We found that mood, motivation, and a decreased ability to perform activities of daily living were significantly associated with cognitive function. The results of the present study suggest that maintaining social involvement is important to prevent decreases in physical activity, daily function, mood, and motivation.

FMEA team performance in health care: A qualitative analysis of team member perceptions.

PubMed

Wetterneck, Tosha B; Hundt, Ann Schoofs; Carayon, Pascale

2009-06-01

: Failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA) is a commonly used prospective risk assessment approach in health care. Failure mode and effects analyses are time consuming and resource intensive, and team performance is crucial for FMEA success. We evaluate FMEA team members' perceptions of FMEA team performance to provide recommendations to improve the FMEA process in health care organizations. : Structured interviews and survey questionnaires were administered to team members of 2 FMEA teams at a Midwest Hospital to evaluate team member perceptions of FMEA team performance and factors influencing team performance. Interview transcripts underwent content analysis, and descriptive statistics were performed on questionnaire results to identify and quantify FMEA team performance. Theme-based nodes were categorized using the input-process-outcome model for team performance. : Twenty-eight interviews and questionnaires were completed by 24 team members. Four persons participated on both teams. There were significant differences between the 2 teams regarding perceptions of team functioning and overall team effectiveness that are explained by difference in team inputs and process (e.g., leadership/facilitation, team objectives, attendance of process owners). : Evaluation of team members' perceptions of team functioning produced useful insights that can be used to model future team functioning. Guidelines for FMEA team success are provided.

Executive functions and behavioral problems in deaf and hard-of-hearing students at general and special schools.

PubMed

Hintermair, Manfred

2013-01-01

In this study, behavioral problems of deaf and hard-of-hearing (D/HH) school-aged children are discussed in the context of executive functioning and communicative competence. Teachers assessed the executive functions of a sample of 214 D/HH students from general schools and schools for the deaf, using a German version of the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Functions (BRIEF-D). This was complemented by a questionnaire that measured communicative competence and behavioral problems (German version of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire; SDQ-D). The results in nearly all the scales show a significantly higher problem rate for executive functions in the group of D/HH students compared with a normative sample of hearing children. In the D/HH group, students at general schools had better scores on most scales than students at schools for the deaf. Regression analysis reveals the importance of executive functions and communicative competence for behavioral problems. The relevance of the findings for pedagogical work is discussed. A specific focus on competencies such as self-efficacy or self-control in educational concepts for D/HH students seems to be necessary in addition to extending language competencies.

Impact of fibromyalgia on sexual function in women.

PubMed

Collado-Mateo, D; Olivares, P R; Adsuar, J C; Gusi, N

2018-03-09

The prevalence of sexual problems is very high among women with fibromyalgia. To evaluate the prevalence of sexual problems in women with FM and the potential association among physical activity, quality of life and sexual function. We aimed to contribute in the understanding of the relationships between sexual function and the symptoms of FM. The sample of this cross-sectional study was comprised by 113 women with FM and 116 age-matched women without FM. Sexual function was assessed using the 15D questionnaire. Health-related quality of life (using EQ-5D-5L and 15D questionnaires), impact of fibromyalgia and physical activity were also assessed. The prevalence of sexual problems among women with fibromyalgia was 76%, while it was 15% in healthy controls. This prevalence was even higher among those aged more than 50. Sexual function was significantly associated with quality of life, distance walked, impact of fibromyalgia and four of the symptoms: depression, anxiety, tenderness and memory problems. More than three out of four women with fibromyalgia have any kind of sexual problem. Depression, anxiety and tenderness seems to be the most relevant symptoms associated with sexual function. Physical activity may be protective and reduce the risk of having sexual problems.

International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health in subjects with alternating hemiplegia of childhood.

PubMed

Montirosso, Rosario; Ceppi, Elisa; D'aloisio, Chiara; Zucca, Claudio; Borgatti, Renato

2009-01-01

To examine the functioning of patients with alternating hemiplegia of childhood (AHC), a very rare clinical condition manifesting with recurrent episodes of hemiplegia lasting from few minutes to several days, paroxysmal occurrence of tonic/dystonic attacks and other autonomic disturbances. Furthermore, patients exhibit chronic disabilities as well as mental retardation, epilepsy and motor disorders that affect the patients' everyday functioning to a considerable extent. Data about 25 patients with AHC (F = 13) aged 3-34 years were collected with International Classification of Functioning Disability and Health (ICF) questionnaires. Data analysis was carried out on four age groups: 3-6, 7-12, 13-18 and >18 years, using only the ICF questionnaires' cross-age items. In the body functions component, paying attention, seeing, muscle tones were common problems for all age groups. In the activity and participation component, all participants showed problems in basic interpersonal interactions. Finally, in the environmental factors component, barriers concern the climate and health services. On the other hand, families reported adequate support from social services. Although these findings must be validated, they appear to be promising and can contribute to understanding the daily functioning features of patients with AHC.

The use of health status questionnaires in the management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients in clinical practice.

PubMed

van der Molen, Thys; Diamant, Zuzana; Kocks, Jan Willem H; Tsiligianni, Ioanna G

2014-08-01

Current guidelines recommend chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) management based on symptoms or health status assessment and lung function parameters. However, COPD is a complex and heterogeneous disease that needs an individualized approach for proper disease management. A structured consultation including health status assessment tools, such as the Clinical COPD Questionnaire and the COPD Assessment Test should improve the quality of the consultation, providing more information than symptoms alone. Both questionnaires are designed to provide the clinician information enabling a more personalized disease approach and subsequent management. Although both Clinical COPD Questionnaire and COPD Assessment Test have good discriminate properties, their use as prognostic markers of severity and their ability to modify disease management has not yet been fully established. New studies are needed to further determine their value on several disease outcomes.

Who are the Gatekeepers? Predictors of Maternal Gatekeeping

PubMed Central

Schoppe-Sullivan, Sarah J.; Altenburger, Lauren E.; Lee, Meghan A.; Bower, Daniel J.; Kamp Dush, Claire M.

2016-01-01

SYNOPSIS Objective The goal of this study was to identify determinants of maternal gatekeeping at the transition to parenthood. Design Participants included 182 different-gender dual-earner couples. During pregnancy, expectant parents completed questionnaires regarding their psychological functioning, attitudes, and expectations, and at 3 months postpartum questionnaires regarding maternal gatekeeping behavior and gate closing attitudes. Results SEM analyses revealed that mothers were more likely to close the gate to fathers when mothers held greater perfectionistic expectations for fathers’ parenting, had poorer psychological functioning, perceived their romantic relationship as less stable, and had higher levels of parenting self-efficacy. In contrast, fathers with lower parenting self-efficacy appeared to elicit greater maternal gate closing behavior. Mothers who engaged in greater gate opening behavior were more religious. Conclusions Maternal gatekeeping may be more strongly associated with maternal expectations and psychological functioning than with maternal traditional gender attitudes. Fathers’ characteristics are less predictive of maternal gatekeeping than mothers’ characteristics. PMID:27366115

Who are the Gatekeepers? Predictors of Maternal Gatekeeping.

PubMed

Schoppe-Sullivan, Sarah J; Altenburger, Lauren E; Lee, Meghan A; Bower, Daniel J; Kamp Dush, Claire M

The goal of this study was to identify determinants of maternal gatekeeping at the transition to parenthood. Participants included 182 different-gender dual-earner couples. During pregnancy, expectant parents completed questionnaires regarding their psychological functioning, attitudes, and expectations, and at 3 months postpartum questionnaires regarding maternal gatekeeping behavior and gate closing attitudes. SEM analyses revealed that mothers were more likely to close the gate to fathers when mothers held greater perfectionistic expectations for fathers' parenting, had poorer psychological functioning, perceived their romantic relationship as less stable, and had higher levels of parenting self-efficacy. In contrast, fathers with lower parenting self-efficacy appeared to elicit greater maternal gate closing behavior. Mothers who engaged in greater gate opening behavior were more religious. Maternal gatekeeping may be more strongly associated with maternal expectations and psychological functioning than with maternal traditional gender attitudes. Fathers' characteristics are less predictive of maternal gatekeeping than mothers' characteristics.

Functional disability associated with disease and quality-of-life parameters in Chinese patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

PubMed

Ji, Juan; Zhang, Lijuan; Zhang, Qiuxiang; Yin, Rulan; Fu, Ting; Li, Liren; Gu, Zhifeng

2017-05-02

As an important outcome measure among rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients, functional disability may contribute to unemployment, loss of work productivity, and impaired quality of life. However, little is known about the risk factors of functional disability in Chinese RA patients. This study aimed (1) to examine the prevalence of functional disability in Chinese RA patients; (2) to explore factors associated with the health assessment questionnaire-disability index (HAQ-DI). A total of 101 RA patients in this cross-sectional study underwent standardized laboratory examinations and responded to the questionnaire for demographic data, the HAQ-DI for functional disability, the Compliance Questionnaire on Rheumatology (CQR) for medication adherence, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) for psychological status, and the Short Form 36 health survey (SF-36) for quality of life. Pain, grip/pinch strength, disease activity, and large joint mobility were recorded. Independent samples t-tests, chi-square analyses, and logistic regression modeling were used to analyze the data. The mean ± SD age of RA patients was 54.9 ± 11.9 years. Approximately 15.8% RA patients in mainland China experience functional disability (defined as a HAQ-DI score ≥ 1). Long disease duration, pain, high disease activity, a larger number of tender and swollen joints, high C-reactive protein (CRP) level, decreased grip strength, and limitation of shoulder, elbow, wrist, knee, and ankle motion were associated with the HAQ-DI. Participants with functional disability tended to have more severe depressive symptoms and a lower quality of life compared with individuals without functional disability. Stepwise logistic regression analyses found that limitation of wrist extension (P = 0.001) and lower body pain (BP) score (P = 0.001) explained higher HAQ-DI score. The present study reported that functional disability was common in Chinese RA patients. A low quality of life and limitation of joint mobility had great impacts on functional disability in Chinese RA patients. Targeted and culturally sensitive interventions should be strengthened to delay the onset of disabilities of this population.

Influence of childhood scleroderma on physical function and quality of life.

PubMed

Baildam, Eileen M; Ennis, Holly; Foster, Helen E; Shaw, Lindsay; Chieng, Alice S E; Kelly, Jane; Herrick, Ariane L; Richards, Helen L

2011-01-01

there have been few studies of quality of life in childhood scleroderma and these focused predominantly on self-perception and the influence of skin lesions. Our cross-sectional study aimed to describe the influence of childhood scleroderma on physical function and quality of life in relation to clinical and demographic measures. children with either localized scleroderma or systemic sclerosis (SSc) attending pediatric rheumatology clinics, together with their parents or guardians, were asked to complete a set of 4 validated measures. Clinical and demographic data were provided by consultant pediatric rheumatologists. in total, 28 children and their parents/guardians participated in the study (68% female, median age 13 yrs; 86% localized scleroderma, 14% SSc). The median Child Health Assessment Questionnaire (CHAQ) score was 0.1 (range 0-3, 0 indicating no impairment), the median Child Dermatology Life Quality Index (CDLQI) score was 5 (range 0-30, 0 indicating no impairment), and the median Child Quality of Life Questionnaire (CQOL) function score was 26 (range 0-105, 0 indicating no impairment). Family activity, measured by the Child Health Questionnaire (CHQ-PF50), was also moderately impaired by scleroderma, with a median score of 83 (0-100, 100 indicating no impairment). scleroderma had only a moderate effect on quality of life and physical function as measured by the 4 validated instruments. Although a small number of children reported greater impairment, this is an encouraging finding, given its potential disfiguring and debilitating effects.

Night eating in bipolar disorder.

PubMed

Melo, Matias Carvalho Aguiar; de Oliveira Ribeiro, Maximilo; de Araújo, Carolina Freitas Cardeal; de Mesquita, Licia Marah Figueredo; de Bruin, Pedro Felipe Carvalhedo; de Bruin, Veralice Meireles Sales

2018-05-07

Night eating syndrome (NES) involves reduced feeding during the day and evening hyperphagia sometimes accompanied by frequent nocturnal awakenings with conscious episodes of compulsive ingestion of food. Previously, NES has not been evaluated in bipolar disorder (BD). The objective of this study was to identify NES in euthymic BD patients. Eighty BD patients and 40 controls were examined using the Night Eating Questionnaire, Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression and Anxiety, Young Mania Rating Scale, Functioning Assessment Short-Test and International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index), daytime sleepiness (Epworth Sleepiness Scale), severity of insomnia (Insomnia Severity Index) and morning-evening preference (Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire) were also evaluated. BD patients presented NES in 8.8% while the controls showed no NES. Patients with and without NES were not different with respect to gender, disease duration, smoking, heavy drinking, body mass index, waist-to-hip ratio and neck circumference. BD patients with NES scored higher for functioning as well as for the following specific components: occupational functioning, financial issues, interpersonal relationships and leisure time. They also had more anxiety, higher insomnia severity and worse sleep quality. Furthermore, BD patients with NES were more evening type. NES occurs more frequently in BD patients than in controls. BD patients with NES present more disease-related manifestations such as more anxiety, poorer functioning and worse sleep parameters. Patients with NES were more evening type. We speculate whether changing circadian preference in these patients can reduce NES. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A health care navigation tool assesses asthma self-management and health literacy.

PubMed

Perez, Luzmercy; Morales, Knashawn H; Klusaritz, Heather; Han, Xiaoyan; Huang, Jingru; Rogers, Marisa; Bennett, Ian M; Rand, Cynthia S; Ndicu, Grace; Apter, Andrea J

2016-12-01

Self-management of moderate-to-severe asthma depends on the patient's ability to (1) navigate (access health care to obtain diagnoses and treatment), (2) use inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs) properly, and (3) understand ICS function. We sought to test whether navigation skills (medication recall, knowledge of copay requirements, and ability to provide information needed for a medical visit about a persistent cough unresponsive to medication) are related to other self-management skills and health literacy. A 21-item Navigating Ability (NAV2) questionnaire was developed, validated, and then read to adults with moderate-to-severe asthma. ICS technique was evaluated by using scales derived from instructions in national guidelines; knowledge of ICS function was evaluated by using a validated 10-item questionnaire. Spearman correlation was computed between NAV2 score and these questionnaires and with numeracy (Asthma Numeracy Questionnaire) and print literacy (Short Test of Functional Health Literacy in Adults). Two hundred fifty adults participated: age, 51 ± 13 years; 72% female; 65% African American; 10% Latino; 50% with household income of less than $30,000/y; 47% with no more than a 12th-grade education; and 29% experienced hospitalizations for asthma in the prior year. A higher NAV2 score was associated with correct ICS technique (ρ = 0.24, P = .0002), knowledge of ICSs (ρ = 0.35, P < .001), better print literacy (ρ = 0.44, P < .001), and numeracy (ρ = 0.41, P < .001). Patients with poor navigational ability are likely to have poor inhaler technique and limited understanding of ICS function, as well as limited numeracy and print literacy. Clinicians should consider these elements of self-management for their effect on asthma care and as a marker of more general health literacy deficits. Copyright © 2016 American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Health professionals identify components of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) in questionnaires for the upper limb

PubMed Central

Philbois, Stella V.; Martins, Jaqueline; Souza, Cesário S.; Sampaio, Rosana F.; Oliveira, Anamaria S.

2016-01-01

BACKGROUND: Several Brazilian studies have addressed the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF), but few have analyzed the knowledge of the health professionals with regards to the ICF. OBJECTIVE: To verify whether the classification of the items in the Brazilian-Portuguese versions of The Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) and The Disabilities Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaires, obtained from health professionals who worked with patients having upper limb injuries, could be related to ICF components as defined by others studies. METHOD: There were 4 participants for the group "professionals with high familiarity of the ICF (PHF)" and 19 for the group of "professionals with some or no familiarity of the ICF (PSNF)". The participants judged whether the items on the two questionnaires belonged to the ICF body function, body structure or activity-participation component, and marked a confidence level for each trial using a numerical scale ranging from zero to 10. The items were classified by the discriminant content validity method using the Student'st-test and the Hochberg correction. The ratings were compared to the literature by the percentage of agreement and Kappa coefficient. RESULTS: The percentage of agreement of the rating from the PSNF and the PHF groups with the literature was equal to or greater than 77%. For the DASH, the agreement of the PSNF and PHF groups with the literature were, respectively, moderate (Kappa=0.46 to 0.48) and substantial (Kappa=0.62 to 0.70). CONCLUSIONS: Health professionals were able to correlate the three components of the ICF for most items on the 2 questionnaires, demonstrating some ease of understanding the ICF components. However, the relation of concept of pain with body function component is not clear for professional and deserves a more attentive approach. PMID:26786076

Assistive technology evaluations: Remote-microphone technology for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

PubMed

Schafer, Erin C; Wright, Suzanne; Anderson, Christine; Jones, Jessalyn; Pitts, Katie; Bryant, Danielle; Watson, Melissa; Box, Jerrica; Neve, Melissa; Mathews, Lauren; Reed, Mary Pat

The goal of this study was to conduct assistive technology evaluations on 12 children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to evaluate the potential benefits of remote-microphone (RM) technology. A single group, within-subjects design was utilized to explore individual and group data from functional questionnaires and behavioral test measures administered, designed to assess school- and home-based listening abilities, once with and once without RM technology. Because some of the children were unable to complete the behavioral test measures, particular focus was given to the functional questionnaires completed by primary teachers, participants, and parents. Behavioral test measures with and without the RM technology included speech recognition in noise, auditory comprehension, and acceptable noise levels. The individual and group teacher (n=8-9), parent (n=8-9), and participant (n=9) questionnaire ratings revealed substantially less listening difficulty when RM technology was used compared to the no-device ratings. On the behavioral measures, individual data revealed varied findings, which will be discussed in detail in the results section. However, on average, the use of the RM technology resulted in improvements in speech recognition in noise (4.6dB improvement) in eight children, higher auditory working memory and comprehension scores (12-13 point improvement) in seven children, and acceptance of poorer signal-to-noise ratios (8.6dB improvement) in five children. The individual and group data from this study suggest that RM technology may improve auditory function in children with ASD in the classroom, at home, and in social situations. However, variability in the data and the inability of some children to complete the behavioral measures indicates that individualized assistive technology evaluations including functional questionnaires will be necessary to determine if the RM technology will be of benefit to a particular child who has ASD. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Emotional Intelligence and Nurse Recruitment: Rasch and confirmatory factor analysis of the trait emotional intelligence questionnaire short form.

PubMed

Snowden, Austyn; Watson, Roger; Stenhouse, Rosie; Hale, Claire

2015-12-01

To examine the construct validity of the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire Short form. Emotional intelligence involves the identification and regulation of our own emotions and the emotions of others. It is therefore a potentially useful construct in the investigation of recruitment and retention in nursing and many questionnaires have been constructed to measure it. Secondary analysis of existing dataset of responses to Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire Short form using concurrent application of Rasch analysis and confirmatory factor analysis. First year undergraduate nursing and computing students completed Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire-Short Form in September 2013. Responses were analysed by synthesising results of Rasch analysis and confirmatory factor analysis. Participants (N = 938) completed Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire Short form. Rasch analysis showed the majority of the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire-Short Form items made a unique contribution to the latent trait of emotional intelligence. Five items did not fit the model and differential item functioning (gender) accounted for this misfit. Confirmatory factor analysis revealed a four-factor structure consisting of: self-confidence, empathy, uncertainty and social connection. All five misfitting items from the Rasch analysis belonged to the 'social connection' factor. The concurrent use of Rasch and factor analysis allowed for novel interpretation of Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire Short form. Much of the response variation in Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire Short form can be accounted for by the social connection factor. Implications for practice are discussed. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

[The effect of selected socio-medical factors on quality of life and psychosexual functioning in women after surgical treatment of breast cancer].

PubMed

Zdończyk, Sebastian Artur

2015-01-01

According to the National Cancer Registry, 16 534 new cases of breast cancer were confirmed in 2011 in Poland. Surgical treatment poses not only a serious oncological problem, but also a cosmetic and psychological one. Women fear they will lose their femininity and sexual attractiveness after the surgery. They feel defective (half woman complex) and they experience such feelings as shame, anger and depression. Sexuality is a sphere of life that is particularly susceptible to all kinds of perturbation of physical and mental states. The main cognitive objective of the presented research is the analysis of life quality level and mental and sexual functioning of women who underwent breast cancer surgical treatment. The research was carried out from October 2013 to February 2014 among 250 adult women who underwent breast cancer surgery. The questionnaire includes questions regarding sociomedical and sociosexology questions, and five standardised research tools: Life Quality Questionnaire SF-36 v. 2, licence No. QM020862, Mell-Krat Questionnaire prepared by Z. Lew-Starowicz, Female Sexual Function Index Questionnaire, A List of Health Behaviours by Z. Juczyński, Courtauld Emotional Control Scale (CECS) adapted by Z. Juczyński. The research received a positive opinion from the Bioethical Commission of The Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin. On the basis of the conducted research and statistical analyses it was found that the extensiveness of the surgical procedure, the effectiveness of oncological treatment, age, the number of children, education, material conditions, and the occupational status of the subject women have an impact on life quality and psychosexual functioning. Women who underwent mastectomy with reconstruction of the mammary gland gained higher results in comparison to women who underwent mastectomy without reconstruction as regards physical and mental functioning within life quality. The respondents who had their oncological treatment completed were featured with a lower intensity of sexual dysfunctions than women who had their treatment in progress. The participants of the research with higher educational level, high material status and stable job condition had higher indicators of health behaviours intensity than women with lower material status and lower educational level.

Patterns of drug use and the influence of gender on self-reports of memory ability in ecstasy users: a web-based study.

PubMed

Rodgers, J; Buchanan, T; Scholey, A B; Heffernan, T M; Ling, J; Parrott, A C

2003-12-01

Research indicates that the use of recreational drugs, including MDMA ('ecstasy') can result in impairments in cognitive functioning. Recent evidence, based on accounts of 'on drug' effects and cortical binding ratios suggests that women may be more susceptible to the effects of MDMA; however, no research has explored whether there are differences in the long-term behavioural sequelae of the drug between men and women. In addition, little is known about the profile of functioning of the 'typical' user. The present investigation accessed a large sample of recreational drug users, using the Internet, to obtain self-reports of memory functioning with a view to exploring any differences in self-reported ability amongst male and female users, and the level of difficulty reported by the 'typical' ecstasy user. A web site (www.drugresearch.org.uk) was developed and used for data collection. Prospective memory ability was assessed using the Prospective Memory Questionnaire. Self-report of day-to-day memory performance was investigated using the Everyday Memory Questionnaire. The UEL Drug Questionnaire assessed the use of other substances. The number of mistakes made while completing the questionnaires was also taken as an objective measure of performance errors. Findings, based on datasets submitted from 763 respondents, indicate no differences in self-reports of functioning between male and female participants. An overall dissociation between the effects of cannabis and ecstasy on self-reported memory functioning and on the likelihood of making an error during the completion of the questionnaire was found. Typical ecstasy users were found to report significantly more difficulties in long-term prospective memory and to make more completion errors than users of other substances and drug naive controls. Whilst taking into account the fact that participants were recruited via the World Wide Web and that a number of stringent exclusion criteria were applied to the data, a number of conclusions can be drawn. Recreational drug users perceive their memory ability to be impaired compared to non-users. The type of memory difficulties reported varies depending upon the drug of choice. These difficulties are exacerbated in ecstasy users. Individuals reporting average levels of use of ecstasy are more likely to report memory problems than non-ecstasy drug users or drug free individuals. The deleterious effects of ecstasy are therefore not restricted to heavy or chronic users. No gender differences were detected, suggesting that there may be a dissociation between cognitive impairment and cortical binding worthy of further exploration.

A new informant-based questionnaire for instrumental activities of daily living in dementia.

PubMed

Sikkes, Sietske A M; de Lange-de Klerk, Elly S M; Pijnenburg, Yolande A L; Gillissen, Freek; Romkes, Rolinka; Knol, Dirk L; Uitdehaag, Bernard M J; Scheltens, Philip

2012-11-01

Interference in everyday functioning is part of the diagnostic criteria for dementia. Questionnaires measuring "instrumental activities of daily living" (IADL) are used to measure this interference, but the psychometric quality of these questionnaires is often questioned. In addition, these questionnaires are less suited for early-onset patients. This is problematic, given the high frequency of relatively young patients in memory clinics. In this article, we describe the development and psychometric properties of a new informant-based IADL questionnaire aimed at detecting incipient dementia and appropriate for a broad age range. We defined IADL in consensus with experts and constructed items based on existing items and suggestions from experts and informants. Informants of subjects (n = 206) who visited the Alzheimer Center of the VU University Medical Center completed the questionnaire. Factor structure was investigated using classical exploratory factor analysis and item response theory. We assessed test-retest reliability in 73 informants using weighted κ values. The questionnaire consisted of 75 items and was computerized to enhance ease of administration. Exploratory factor analysis supported a single-factor model, with 48.3% of the variance being explained by the first factor. We removed five items, as they did not fit the model. High internal consistency was demonstrated. Test-retest reliability showed that the majority of items (87.9%) had substantial-to-almost perfect κ values. The Amsterdam IADL Questionnaire (Amsterdam IADL questionnaire is a registered trademark of Alzheimer Center VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands) is a 70-item informant-based computerized questionnaire aimed at detecting early dementia and early-onset dementia. Initial results show that this questionnaire is a promising new tool. Copyright © 2012 The Alzheimer's Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Validity of three asthma-specific quality of life questionnaires: the patients' perspective.

PubMed

Apfelbacher, Christian J; Jones, Christina J; Frew, Anthony; Smith, Helen

2016-12-22

It is not known which of the many asthma-specific quality of life (QoL) questionnaires best capture the lived experience of people with asthma. The objective of this study was to explore patients' views of three commonly used asthma-specific QoL questionnaires. Qualitative study using semistructured interviews. Primary and secondary care in Brighton and Hove, UK. 30 adult people with a physician-diagnosis of asthma who were asked to complete the Juniper Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (AQLQ-J), the Sydney Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (AQLQ-S) and the Living with Asthma Questionnaire (LWAQ) to elicit their views on the content validity of these. Thematic content analysis revealed a lack of congruence between the concerns of people with asthma and the questionnaire content in terms of missing (eg, allergies) and irrelevant (eg, smoky restaurants) content. The AQLQ-J was perceived as a 'narrow', 'medical' questionnaire focused on symptoms, the environment and functional ability. In contrast, the LWAQ and the AQLQ-S were perceived to be 'non-medical'. The LWAQ was described as a 'test' and as a wide-ranging, embracing and holistic questionnaire. Its strong emotional focus was irritating to some. The AQLQ-S was described as a simple, quick and easy questionnaire, although there was a perception that it was lacking in depth. Patient interviews highlighted strengths and shortcomings in the content validity of these three asthma-specific questionnaires. For patients, the AQLQ-S content seemed to be the most pertinent in its adequacy of coverage of medical, social and emotional aspects of health-related QoL in asthma. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.

Validity of three asthma-specific quality of life questionnaires: the patients' perspective

PubMed Central

Jones, Christina J; Frew, Anthony; Smith, Helen

2016-01-01

Objectives It is not known which of the many asthma-specific quality of life (QoL) questionnaires best capture the lived experience of people with asthma. The objective of this study was to explore patients' views of three commonly used asthma-specific QoL questionnaires. Design Qualitative study using semistructured interviews. Setting Primary and secondary care in Brighton and Hove, UK. Participants 30 adult people with a physician-diagnosis of asthma who were asked to complete the Juniper Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (AQLQ-J), the Sydney Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (AQLQ-S) and the Living with Asthma Questionnaire (LWAQ) to elicit their views on the content validity of these. Results Thematic content analysis revealed a lack of congruence between the concerns of people with asthma and the questionnaire content in terms of missing (eg, allergies) and irrelevant (eg, smoky restaurants) content. The AQLQ-J was perceived as a ‘narrow’, ‘medical’ questionnaire focused on symptoms, the environment and functional ability. In contrast, the LWAQ and the AQLQ-S were perceived to be ‘non-medical’. The LWAQ was described as a ‘test’ and as a wide-ranging, embracing and holistic questionnaire. Its strong emotional focus was irritating to some. The AQLQ-S was described as a simple, quick and easy questionnaire, although there was a perception that it was lacking in depth. Conclusions Patient interviews highlighted strengths and shortcomings in the content validity of these three asthma-specific questionnaires. For patients, the AQLQ-S content seemed to be the most pertinent in its adequacy of coverage of medical, social and emotional aspects of health-related QoL in asthma. PMID:28007706

Receptive Vocabulary Knowledge in Low-Functioning Autism as Assessed by Eye Movements, Pupillary Dilation, and Event-Related Potentials

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-06-01

questionnaire for Asperger Syndrome and other high-functioning autism spectrum disorders in school age children. Journal of Autism & Developmental...10-1-0404 TITLE: Receptive Vocabulary Knowledge in Low-Functioning Autism as Assessed by Eye Movements, Pupillary Dilation, and Event-Related...W81XWH-10-1-0404 Receptive Vocabulary Knowledge in Low-Functioning Autism as Assessed by Eye Movements, Pupillary Dilation, and Event-Related

A comparison of an audiometric screening survey with an in-depth research questionnaire for hearing loss and hearing loss risk factors

PubMed Central

Mosites, Emily; Neitzel, Richard; Galusha, Deron; Trufan, Sally; Dixon-Ernst, Christine; Rabinowitz, Peter

2017-01-01

Objective We assessed the reliability of a hearing risk factor screening survey used by hearing conservation programs for noise-exposed workers. Design We compared workers’ answers from the screening survey to their answers to a confidential research questionnaire regarding hearing loss risk factors. We calculated kappa statistics to test the correlation between yes/no questions in the research questionnaire compared to answers from one and five years of screening surveys. Study Sample We compared the screening survey and research questionnaire answers of 274 aluminum plant workers. Results Most of the questions in the in-company screening survey showed fair to moderate agreement with the research questionnaire (kappa range: −0.02, 0.57). Workers’ answers to the screening survey had better correlation with the research questionnaire when we compared five years of screening answers. For nearly all questions, workers were more likely to respond affirmatively on the research questionnaire than the screening survey. Conclusions Hearing conservation programs should be aware that workers may underreport hearing loss risk factors and functional hearing status on an audiometric screening survey. Validating company screening tools could help provide more accurate information on hearing loss and risk factors. PMID:27609310

Validity and Reliability of the Persian Version of Baecke Habitual Physical Activity Questionnaire in Healthy Subjects.

PubMed

Sadeghisani, Meissam; Dehghan Manshadi, Farideh; Azimi, Hadi; Montazeri, Ali

2016-09-01

Baecke Habitual Physical Activity Questionnaire (BHPAQ) has widely been employed in clinical and laboratorial studies as a tool for measuring subjects' physical activities. But, the reliability and validity of this questionnaire have not been investigated among Persian speakers. Therefore, the aim of the current study was examining the reliability and validity of the Persian version of the BHPAQ in healthy Persian adults. After following the process of forward-backward translation, 32 subjects were invited to fill out the Persian version of the questionnaire in two independent sessions (3 - 7 days after the first session) in order to determine the reliability index. Also, the validity of the questionnaire was assessed through concurrent validity by 126 subjects (66 males and 60 females) answering both the Baecke and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). An acceptable level of intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC of work score = 0.95, sport score = 0.93, and leisure score = 0.77) was achieved for the Persian Baecke questionnaire. Correlations between Persian Baecke and IPAQ with and without the score for sitting position were found to be 0.19 and 0.36, respectively. The Persian version of the BHPAQ is a reliable and valid instrument that can be used to measure the level of habitual functional activities in Persian-speaking subjects.

Correlates of sexual function in male and female patients with multiple sclerosis.

PubMed

Lew-Starowicz, Michal; Rola, Rafal

2014-09-01

Many factors have been suggested to contribute to sexual dysfunction (SD) in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, but the research on their impact on sexual functioning (SF) and sexual quality of life (SQoL) remains scant. The aim of this study was to investigate correlates of SF and SQoL in MS patients, as well as possible gender differences. 204 MS patients were interviewed, completed the questionnaires, and underwent neurological assessment. Primary outcome measures included the International Index of Erectile Function, the Female Sexual Function Questionnaire, the Sexual Quality of Life Questionnaire, the Beck Depression Inventory, and the Expanded Disability Status Scale. The course and duration of the disease did not predict patients' SF. Negative correlations were found for brainstem symptoms with orgasmic function and overall satisfaction in men and between cognitive functioning and the partner domain in women. Interestingly, brainstem symptoms correlated positively with the arousal domain in women. More than half (52.1%) of patients fulfilled Beck Depression Inventory criteria for depression, and these patients showed more SD than nondepressive individuals. The strongest negative correlations with depressive symptoms were found for desire, erectile function, and overall satisfaction with sexual life in men and for orgasm and sexual enjoyment in women. Deterioration in particular domains of SF was clearly related with diminished SQoL. The main gender difference was a strong influence of decreased desire on SQoL in women and no such correlation in men. Negative assessment of the relationship with partner significantly affected all domains of SF and SQoL in MS women and the desire domain in MS men. Several correlates of SF in MS patients were found. The role of brainstem symptoms needs further investigation. Clinicians should pay close attention to depressive symptoms and relationship factors in MS patients who suffer from SD. © 2014 International Society for Sexual Medicine.

Age neutrality of the young schema questionnaire in patients with a substance use disorder.

PubMed

Pauwels, Els; Claes, Laurence; Dierckx, Eva; Debast, Inge; Van Alphen, S P J Bas; Rossi, Gina; Schotte, Chris; Santens, Els; Peuskens, Hendrik

2014-08-01

Young's Schema Focused Therapy (SFT) is gaining popularity in the treatment of older adults. In the context of this therapy, the Young Schema Questionnaire (YSQ) was developed to assess the early maladaptive schemas (EMS). EMS are considered to be relatively stable over time, but research shows that questionnaires often lack face validity in older adults, which makes it difficult to investigate EMS in older adults and their stability across the lifespan. In the present cross-sectional study, we investigated the age neutrality of the Young Schema Questionnaire--Long Form in young (aged 18-34 years), middle-aged (aged 35-59 years), and older (aged 60-75 years) adults in a clinical sample of substance use disorders (N = 321) by examining potential differential item functioning (DIF). While investigating the stability of the schemas, we controlled for substance dependency and clinical symptoms by means of, respectively, the Drug Use Screening Inventory - Revised and the Symptom Checklist-90-R. The Bonferroni-adjusted Liu-Agresti Cumulative Common Log-Odds Ratio confirmed large DIF for six items, divided across five schema scales (Mistrust/Abuse, Subjugation, Entitlement, Enmeshment and Self-sacrifice). Of the six items that presented DIF, only one item showed differential test functioning (Entitlement). Overall results show only 3% DIF, implying age neutrality of the questionnaire. Current results corroborate that most EMS scales are equally measured across age, and reliable comparisons can be made across the lifespan, allowing for good clinical practice and further research on SFT in older adults. Only for Entitlement, Enmeshment, and Insufficient Self-control, caution is needed when comparing mean scores across the age groups.

Psychometric properties of parent and child reported sleep assessment tools in children with cerebral palsy: a systematic review.

PubMed

Bautista, Manuel; Whittingham, Koa; Edwards, Priya; Boyd, Roslyn N

2018-02-01

To determine whether any parent and child report sleep measure tools have been validated in children aged 0-18 years with cerebral palsy (CP). A systematic search of five databases was performed up to June 2017. Studies were included if a sleep measure tool was used to evaluate sleep in children 0-18 years with CP based on international classifications of sleep. Sleep measures were assessed for psychometric data in children with CP. Only one paper which used the Schlaffragebogen für Kinder mit Neurologischen und Anderen Komplexen Erkrankungen (SNAKE) questionnaire met the study criteria. The four other measures frequently used in children with CP had no psychometric data available for their use in children with CP. The SNAKE questionnaire has been validated only in children with CP in Gross Motor Function Classification System level V. The Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children and the Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire had the strongest psychometric properties in typically developing children, but has not yet been validated in children with CP. Current sleep measures being administered in typically developing children are also often used in children with CP, but have not been well validated in this group of children. There are no condition specific measures of sleep in children with cerebral palsy (CP). The Schlaffragebogen für Kinder mit Neurologischen und Anderen Komplexen Erkrankungen (SNAKE) questionnaire is validated for children with CP in Gross Motor Function Classification System level V. A framework to design a CP specific sleep questionnaire is provided. © 2017 Mac Keith Press.

Tenure, Functional Track and Strategic Leadership

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Eacott, Scott

2010-01-01

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether the demographic variables of tenure and functional track have a moderating effect on the strategic leadership of school leaders. Design/methodology/approach: Using a conceptual framework developed by the researcher, a static/cross-sectional questionnaire-based study on a convenience…

Ramsay-Curve Differential Item Functioning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Woods, Carol M.

2011-01-01

Differential item functioning (DIF) occurs when an item on a test, questionnaire, or interview has different measurement properties for one group of people versus another, irrespective of true group-mean differences on the constructs being measured. This article is focused on item response theory based likelihood ratio testing for DIF (IRT-LR or…

Virtual-Reality-Based Social Interaction Training for Children with High-Functioning Autism

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ke, Fengfeng; Im, Tami

2013-01-01

Employing the multiple-baseline across-subjects design, the authors examined the implementation and potential effect of a virtual-reality-based social interaction program on the interaction and communication performance of children with high functioning autism. The data were collected via behavior observation and analysis, questionnaires, and…

The Functional Illiterate: Is Correctional Education Doing Its Job?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Loeffler, Cynthia A.; Martin, Thomas C.

A study researched the existence of established Adult Basic Education (ABE) curricula for incarcerated adult inmate/students in state correctional education programs, specifically the functionally illiterate. All 50 State Departments of Corrections were surveyed by questionnaire; 44 responded. ABE was a basis for curricula according to 37.6% of…

Patterns in Vulvodynia Treatments and 6-Month Outcomes for Women Enrolled in the National Vulvodynia Registry-An Exploratory Prospective Study.

PubMed

Lamvu, Georgine; Alappattu, Meryl; Witzeman, Kathryn; Bishop, Mark; Robinson, Michael; Rapkin, Andrea

2018-05-01

Vulvodynia is a poorly characterized condition with multiple treatment options that have been described as largely ineffective in research settings. To describe treatment patterns in women enrolled in the National Vulvodynia Registry and determine if there is an association between selected treatments and patient-reported outcomes such as pain, sexual function, and psychological distress after 6 months of treatment. Participants completed questionnaires on general medical history and patient-reported outcomes using the short-form McGill Pain Questionnaire, the Female Sexual Function Index, the Short Form-12 quality-of-life questionnaire, the Coping Strategies Questionnaire, and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. The evaluation also included pain sensitivity assessment of the vaginal mucosa using a cotton-tipped applicator and the vaginal muscles using a single-digit. In this prospective cohort study, all measurements were collected at baseline and again at 6 months after treatment. Type of treatment, number of treatments, self-reported pain intensity, dyspareunia, and pain-related psychological distress measures are reported at baseline and 6 months. Of 344 women enrolled, 282 received treatment; 78 different treatments were identified and categorized by type (eg, topical, oral, physical therapy) and number. The most commonly used treatments were topical (85%, n = 241), physical therapy (52%, n = 147), and oral medications (45%, n = 128). Notably, 73% of participants received ≥2 treatments. There was no association between type or number of treatments and patient characteristics. At 6 months, women reported improvements in general pain (P = .001), pain during intercourse (P = .001), catastrophizing (P = .000), and anxiety (P = .000). The Short Form-12 quality-of-life questionnaire showed improvements in physical limitations (P = .024), emotional limitations (P = .003), well-being (P = .025), and social function (P = .010). However, all domains of the Female Sexual Function Index indicated worsening in sexual function (P = .000) except for pain. Multi-modal treatments were most commonly used in clinical practice and improvements in patient-reported outcomes such as quality of life, distress, and pain were noted; however, participants who returned at 6 months continued to report poor sexual function. Strengths include a prospective and long-term study design that evaluated women in clinical settings. Limitations include a high rate of loss to follow-up for certain measures and inability to evaluate efficacy of individual treatments. In a setting where women were receiving highly specialized care, we found wide variation in the type and number of treatments used to treat vulvodynia. Despite this heterogeneity in treatment selection, women reported significant improvements in all study measures except sexual function. Lamvu G, Alappattu M, Witzeman K, et al. Patterns in Vulvodynia Treatments and 6-Month Outcomes for Women Enrolled in the National Vulvodynia Registry-An Exploratory Prospective Study. J Sex Med 2018;15:705-715. Published by Elsevier Inc.

The effect of sexual health education program on women sexual function in Iran.

PubMed

Behboodi Moghadam, Zahra; Rezaei, Elham; Khaleghi Yalegonbadi, Fariba; Montazeri, Ali; Arzaqi, Syed Masood; Tavakol, Zeinab; Yari, Fatemeh

2015-01-01

Sexual dysfunction is the most common disorder in women. According to the WHO, sexual education programs are considered as a need. Therefore, this study was designed to investigate the effect of educational program on sexual function in women with sexual dysfunction. This randomized trial, was conducted in 2013 on 90 married women by convenient sampling in Qazvin, central Iran. The demographic, Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), and Beck's Depression Inventory (BDI) questionnaires were completed during structured interviews. After completing the sample size, subjects were divided randomly into two groups by using the table of random numbers (educational and control groups), then respectively received an educational intervention in the four sessions with one week interval and routine program offered by the center and following-up was done with refilling questionnaires 8 weeks after intervention. Sexual function improved after sex educational programs in all dimensions (sexual desire (P=0.006), sexual exciting (P=0.006), vaginal moisture (P=0.002), sexual satisfaction (P=0.011), and total score of sexual function (P=0.001). Considering the importance role of sexual function in family strength, health, and development, it can be claimed that educational sex programs can help practitioners to improve sexual function of married women with sexual dysfunction.

Change in mobility function and its causes in adults with cerebral palsy by Gross Motor Function Classification System level: A cross-sectional questionnaire study.

PubMed

Himuro, Nobuaki; Mishima, Reiko; Seshimo, Takashi; Morishima, Toshibumi; Kosaki, Keisuke; Ibe, Shigeharu; Asagai, Yoshimi; Minematsu, Koji; Kurita, Kazuhiro; Okayasu, Tsutomu; Shimura, Tsukasa; Hoshino, Kotaro; Suzuki, Toshiro; Yanagizono, Taiichiro

2018-04-07

The prognosis for mobility function by Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level is vital as a guide to rehabilitation for people with cerebral palsy. This study sought to investigate change in mobility function and its causes in adults with cerebral palsy by GMFCS level. We conducted a cross-sectional questionnaire study. A total of 386 participants (26 y 8 m, SD 5 y 10 m) with cerebral palsy were analyzed. Participant numbers by GMFCS level were: I (53), II (139), III (74) and IV (120). The median age of participants with peak mobility function in GMFCS level III was younger than that in the other levels. 48% had experienced a decline in mobility. A Kaplan-Meier plot showed the risk of mobility decline increased in GMFCS level III; the hazard ratio was 1.97 (95% CI, 1.20-3.23) compared with level I. The frequently reported causes of mobility decline were changes in environment, and illness and injury in GMFCS level III, stiffness and deformity in level IV, and reduced physical activity in level II and III. Peak mobility function and mobility decline occurred at a younger age in GMFCS level III, with the cause of mobility decline differing by GMFCS level.

Professionals’ views on interprofessional stroke team functioning

PubMed Central

Cramm, Jane M; Nieboer, Anna P

2011-01-01

Introduction The quality of integrated stroke care depends on smooth team functioning but professionals may not always work well together. Professionals’ perspectives on the factors that influence stroke team functioning remain largely unexamined. Understanding their experiences is critical to indentifying measures to improve team functioning. The aim of this study was to identify the factors that contributed to the success of interprofessional stroke teams as perceived by team members. Methods We distributed questionnaires to professionals within 34 integrated stroke care teams at various health care facilities in 9 Dutch regions. 558 respondents (response rate: 39%) completed the questionnaire. To account for the hierarchical structure of the study design we fitted a hierarchical random-effects model. The hierarchical structure comprised 558 stroke team members (level 1) nested in 34 teams (level 2). Results Analyses showed that personal development, social well-being, interprofessional education, communication, and role understanding significantly contributed to stroke team functioning. Team-level constructs affecting interprofessional stroke team functioning were communication and role understanding. No significant relationships were found with individual-level personal autonomy and team-level cohesion. Discussion and conclusion Our findings suggest that interventions to improve team members’ social well-being, communication, and role understanding will improve teams’ performance. To further advance interprofessional team functioning, healthcare organizations should pay attention to developing professionals’ interpersonal skills and interprofessional education. PMID:23390409

Carryover effect of hip and knee exercises program on functional performance in individuals with patellofemoral pain syndrome

PubMed Central

Ahmed Hamada, Hamada; Hussein Draz, Amira; Koura, Ghada Mohamed; Saab, Ibtissam M.

2017-01-01

[Purpose] This study was carried out to investigate the carryover effect of hip and knee exercises program on functional performance (single legged hop test as functional performance test and Kujala score for functional activities). [Subjects and Methods] Thirty patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome were randomly assigned into two equal groups. Group (A) consisted of 15 patients undergoing hip strengthening exercises for four weeks then measuring all variables followed by additional four weeks of knee exercises program then measuring all variables again. Group (B): consisted of 15 patients undergoing knee exercises program for four weeks then measuring all variables followed by additional four weeks of hip strengthening exercises then measuring all variables. Functional abilities and knee muscles performance were assessed using Kujala questionnaire and single legged hop test respectively pre and after the completion of the first 4 weeks then after 8 weeks for both groups. [Results] Significantly increase in Kujala questionnaire in group A compared with group B was observed. While, there were significant increase in single legged hop performance test in group B compared with group A. [Conclusion] Starting with hip exercises improve the performance of subjects more than functional activities while starting with knee exercises improve the functional activities of subjects more than performance. PMID:28878459

Carryover effect of hip and knee exercises program on functional performance in individuals with patellofemoral pain syndrome.

PubMed

Ahmed Hamada, Hamada; Hussein Draz, Amira; Koura, Ghada Mohamed; Saab, Ibtissam M

2017-08-01

[Purpose] This study was carried out to investigate the carryover effect of hip and knee exercises program on functional performance (single legged hop test as functional performance test and Kujala score for functional activities). [Subjects and Methods] Thirty patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome were randomly assigned into two equal groups. Group (A) consisted of 15 patients undergoing hip strengthening exercises for four weeks then measuring all variables followed by additional four weeks of knee exercises program then measuring all variables again. Group (B): consisted of 15 patients undergoing knee exercises program for four weeks then measuring all variables followed by additional four weeks of hip strengthening exercises then measuring all variables. Functional abilities and knee muscles performance were assessed using Kujala questionnaire and single legged hop test respectively pre and after the completion of the first 4 weeks then after 8 weeks for both groups. [Results] Significantly increase in Kujala questionnaire in group A compared with group B was observed. While, there were significant increase in single legged hop performance test in group B compared with group A. [Conclusion] Starting with hip exercises improve the performance of subjects more than functional activities while starting with knee exercises improve the functional activities of subjects more than performance.

Clinical and Patient-reported Outcomes of 1-sided Anterior Urethroplasty for Long-segment or Panurethral Strictures.

PubMed

Spencer, Jeffrey; Blakely, Stephen; Daugherty, Michael; Angulo, Javier C; Martins, Francisco; Venkatesan, Krishnan; Nikolavsky, Dmitriy

2018-01-01

To evaluate clinical and patient-reported urinary and sexual outcomes after a long-segment stricture repair using the 1-sided urethral dissection, penile invagination, and dorsal buccal mucosa graft onlay technique described by Kulkarni et al. Patients from 4 institutions after single-stage repairs for long-segment urethral strictures (>8 cm) from January 2002 to April 2016 were reviewed. Technique described by Kulkarni et al was used in all cases. Clinical outcomes included uroflowmetry (Qmax) and post-void residuals. Patient-reported outcome measures included International Prostate Symptom Score survey, Sexual Health Inventory for Men, Male Sexual Health Questionnaire, and Global Response Assessment questionnaire to measure voiding, sexual, ejaculatory symptoms, and overall improvement, respectively. Seventy-three patients with a minimum of 12 months' follow-up were included. The mean age and stricture length were 56 (21-80) years and 13.6 (8-21) cm, respectively. At a mean follow-up of 44 (12-162) months, 9 of 73 (12%) strictures recurred. The mean baseline International Prostate Symptom Score of 23 (7-24) decreased to 10 (1-17) on follow-up (P <.001). Eight of 42 patients (21.4%) reported an increase, and 6 of 42 patients (14.3%) decreased in Sexual Health Inventory for Men following urethroplasty. Ejaculatory function on Male Sexual Health Questionnaire improved after urethroplasty from 8 preoperatively to 11 postoperatively (P <.004). All patients reported improvement after urethroplasty on Global Response Assessment questionnaire. Post-void dribbling and chordee occurred in 45% and 25% of patients, respectively. Durable patency in most patients is demonstrated in this study. PROMs indicate an improvement in urinary function and moderate effect on sexual function. Transient penile chordee was evident in 25% of patients. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The equivalence and difference between the English and Chinese versions of two major, cancer-specific, health-related quality-of-life questionnaires.

PubMed

Cheung, Yin-Bun; Thumboo, Julian; Goh, Cynthia; Khoo, Kei-Siong; Che, William; Wee, Joseph

2004-12-15

English and Chinese are two of the most widely used primary languages in the world. Patients in many cancer centers have a variety of ethnic backgrounds and primary languages. The comparability of version 4 of the English and Chinese versions of the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General (FACT-G) and version 3 of the European Organization for the Research and Treatment of Cancer Core Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30) have not been established. In total, 1136 ethnic Chinese patients with cancer were recruited from the National Cancer Centre of Singapore. Patients chose to answer an English or Chinese questionnaire, according to their own preference. Multiple regression analysis was used to adjust for differences in demographic and health characteristics. Equivalence was confirmed if the 90% confidence intervals of the adjusted mean difference fell completely within an equivalence zone of +/- 0.25 standard deviations (SD). The English and Chinese versions of the Total, Emotional, and Functional Well Being Scales of the FACT-G and the Physical and Emotional Functioning Scales of the EORTC QLQ-C30 were equivalent. Scores for the other scales on the two questionnaires, at most, had a small differences that did not exceed 0.5 SD. Nevertheless, the Chinese translation of the question "I have a lack of energy" in the Physical Well Being Scale of the FACT-G produced results that differed from the results produced by the original English version. Data collected from English-speaking and Chinese-speaking respondents were capable of being pooled, and either version could be used for bilingual respondents. Nevertheless, the authors recommend modification of the Physical Well Being question that produced different results ("I have a lack of energy").

Body-self unity and self-esteem in patients with rheumatic diseases.

PubMed

Bode, Christina; van der Heij, Anouk; Taal, Erik; van de Laar, Mart A F J

2010-12-01

Perceptions and evaluations of the own body are important sources of self-esteem. Having a rheumatic disease challenges maintenance of positive self-esteem due to consequences of the disease such as unfavorable sensations as pain and limited (physical) functioning. We expect that a positive experience of the own body in spite of a rheumatic disease (body-self harmony) will be associated with higher levels of self-esteem and that experiencing the body as unworthy part of the own person or as disabler for own strivings (body-self alienation) will result in lower levels of self-esteem. For this explorative study, the body experience questionnaire (BEQ) measuring body-self unity was developed and piloted. One hundred sixty-eight patients visiting the outpatient rheumatology clinic of the Medisch Spectrum Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands, completed a questionnaire on touchscreen computers to measure body-self unity (BEQ), illness cognitions (illness cognition questionnaire), pain intensity, functional limitations (health assessment questionnaire disability index), self-esteem (Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale) and demographics. To analyze predictors of self-esteem, hierarchical regression analyses were employed. The BEQ revealed a two-factor structure with good reliability (subscale harmony, four items, Cronbach's α = 0.76; subscale alienation, six items, Cronbach's α = 0.84). The final model of the hierarchical regression analyses showed that self-esteem can be predicted by the illness cognitions helplessness and acceptance, by harmony and most strongly by alienation from the body. R(2) of the final model was 0.50. The relationship between functional limitations and self-esteem was totally mediated by the psychological constructs body-self unity and illness cognitions. This explorative study showed the importance of the unity of body and self for self-esteem in patients with a rheumatic disease.

A systematic review of measurement properties of patient reported outcome measures in psoriatic arthritis: A GRAPPA-OMERACT initiative.

PubMed

Højgaard, Pil; Klokker, Louise; Orbai, Ana-Maria; Holmsted, Kim; Bartels, Else M; Leung, Ying Ying; Goel, Niti; de Wit, Maarten; Gladman, Dafna D; Mease, Philip; Dreyer, Lene; Kristensen, Lars E; FitzGerald, Oliver; Tillett, William; Gossec, Laure; Helliwell, Philip; Strand, Vibeke; Ogdie, Alexis; Terwee, Caroline B; Christensen, Robin

2018-04-01

An updated psoriatic arthritis (PsA) core outcome set (COS) for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was endorsed at the Outcome Measures in Rheumatology (OMERACT) meeting in 2016. To synthesize the evidence on measurement properties of patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) for PsA and thereby contribute to development of a PsA core outcome measurement set (COMS) as described by the OMERACT Filter 2.0. A systematic literature search was performed in EMBASE, MEDLINE and PsycINFO on Jan 1, 2017 to identify full-text articles with an aim of assessing the measurement properties of PROMs in PsA. Two independent reviewers rated the quality of studies using the COnsensus based standards for the Selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) checklist, and performed a qualitative evidence synthesis. Fifty-five studies were included in the systematic review. Forty-four instruments and a total of 89 scales were analyzed. PROMs measuring COS domains with at least fair quality evidence for good validity and reliability (and no evidence for poor properties) included the Stockerau Activity Score for PsA (German), Psoriasis Symptom Inventory, visual analogue scale for Patient Global, 36 Item Short Form Health Survey Physical Function subscale, Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index, Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index, PsA Impact of Disease questionnaire, PsA Quality of Life questionnaire, VITACORA-19, Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy Fatigue scale and Social Role Participation Questionnaire. At least one PROM with some evidence for aspects of validity and reliability was available for six of the eight mandatory domains of the PsA COS. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Measuring visual outcomes in children with uveitis using the “Effects of Youngsters’ Eyesight on Quality of Life” questionnaire

PubMed Central

Angeles-Han, Sheila T.; Yeh, Steven; McCracken, Courtney; Jenkins, Kirsten; Stryker, Daneka; Myoung, Erica; Vogler, Larry; Rouster-Stevens, Kelly; Lambert, Scott R.; Harrison, Melanie J.; Prahalad, Sampath; Drews-Botsch, Carolyn

2015-01-01

Objective The Effects of Youngsters’ Eyesight on Quality of Life (EYE-Q) is a novel measure of vision-related quality of life (QOL) and function in children. We aim to determine the validity of EYE-Q in childhood uveitis. Methods We abstracted medical record data on arthritis and uveitis in a convenience sample of children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and/or uveitis. In addition to the EYE-Q, parents and patients completed questionnaires on overall QOL (Pediatric QOL Inventory - PedsQL), and physical functioning (Childhood Health Assessment Questionnaire - CHAQ). Results Among 57 children (8 JIA, 24 JIA and uveitis, 25 uveitis alone), 102 ocular examinations were performed within 1 month of completing questionnaires. Uveitis patients had bilateral disease (69%), anterior involvement (78%), synechiae (51%) and cataracts (49%). Children with vision loss in their better eye (visual acuity (VA) 20/50 or worse) had worse EYE-Q (p = 0.006), and PedsQL (p = 0.028), but not CHAQ scores. The EYE-Q moderately correlated with logMAR VA (rs = −0.43), PedsQL (rs = 0.43) and CHAQ (rs = −0.45), but was not correlated with anterior chamber cells or intraocular pressure. The PedsQL and CHAQ did not correlate with VA or cells. There were strong correlations between the parent and child EYE-Q (rs = 0.62). Cronbach's α for the child report was 0.91. The EYE-Q had strong test-retest reliability (rs=0.75). Conclusion The EYE-Q may be an important tool in the assessment of visual outcomes in childhood uveitis and an improvement over general measures in detecting changes in vision-related function. PMID:26037544

Psychosocial adjustment in siblings of young people with Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

PubMed

Read, Joy; Kinali, Maria; Muntoni, Francesco; Garralda, M Elena

2010-07-01

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a progressive, impairing, life-limiting disorder of childhood. Little is known about how siblings adapt to this. The aim of this study is to document psychosocial adjustment in siblings of patients with DMD. Healthy siblings (11-18 years old) of young people with DMD attending a specialist paediatric centre and their parent/main carer took part. Parents, siblings and teachers completed a battery of questionnaires: (i) to assess psychiatric risk the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), General Health Questionnaire (GHQ), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS); (ii) to measure general wellbeing: SF-36; (iii) to document DMD illness disability: Functional Disability Inventory (FDI); (iv) to assess family function and life stresses for the unaffected sibling: Family Assessment Device (FAD), Family Burden Interview Schedule and Life Events Checklist. Forty six/77 eligible siblings (24 females/22 males); (mean age 14 years (SD 2.3)) took part. Although their mean psychological functioning and wellbeing questionnaire scores were comparable to normative data, there was a trend for more siblings scoring at high-risk for psychological (mainly emotional) problems. Weak/moderate associations with psychological symptoms in siblings varied according to informant and included the following factors: closeness in age to the affected sibling; older sibling age; extent of wheelchair use, burden of illness on family interactions, and siblings reporting high impact of illness on their lives. Psychological symptoms were also associated with less sibling involvement in patient care, with broader psychosocial and family disadvantage and with life stresses. Siblings have an increased risk for emotional problems, which appears influenced by specific illness factors. Copyright (c) 2009 European Paediatric Neurology Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Development and Psychometric Properties of a Tuberculosis-Specific Multidimensional Health-Related Quality-of-Life Measure for Patients with Pulmonary Tuberculosis.

PubMed

Abdulelah, Juman; Sulaiman, Syed Azhar Syed; Hassali, Mohamed A; Blebil, Ali Q; Awaisu, Ahmed; Bredle, Jason M

2015-05-01

Various generic instruments exist to assess health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in patients with tuberculosis (TB), but a psychometrically sound disease-specific instrument is lacking. The present study aimed to develop and psychometrically validate a multidimensional TB-specific HRQOL instrument relevant to the value of patients with pulmonary TB in Iraq with an eye toward cross-cultural application. The core general HRQOL questionnaire is composed of the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General items. A modular approach was followed for the development of the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Tuberculosis (FACIT-TB) questionnaire in which a set of items assessing quality-of-life (QOL) issues not sufficiently covered by the core Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General items, but considered to be relevant to the target population, was added. Moreover, principal-component analysis was used to determine the new subscale structure of the questionnaire. In addition to the 27 items of the core questionnaire, a set of 20 items referring to disease symptoms related to the site of infection, adverse effects, and additional QOL dimensions such as fatigue, social stigma, and economic burden of the illness was included. Factor analysis demonstrated that the FACIT-TB construct comprised five domains. A rigorous method was applied in the development of the FACIT-TB measure to fully understand the impact of TB on patients' QOL. The instrument is psychometrically sound and portrays multiple important dimensions of HRQOL. FACIT-TB is relatively brief, is easy to administer and score, and is appropriate for use in clinical trials and practice. Copyright © 2015 International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR). Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Validation of Catquest-9SF-A Visual Disability Instrument to Evaluate Patient Function After Corneal Transplantation.

PubMed

Claesson, Margareta; Armitage, W John; Byström, Berit; Montan, Per; Samolov, Branka; Stenvi, Ulf; Lundström, Mats

2017-09-01

Catquest-9SF is a 9-item visual disability questionnaire developed for evaluating patient-reported outcome measures after cataract surgery. The aim of this study was to use Rasch analysis to determine the responsiveness of Catquest-9SF for corneal transplant patients. Patients who underwent corneal transplantation primarily to improve vision were included. One group (n = 199) completed the Catquest-9SF questionnaire before corneal transplantation and a second independent group (n = 199) completed the questionnaire 2 years after surgery. All patients were recorded in the Swedish Cornea Registry, which provided clinical and demographic data for the study. Winsteps software v.3.91.0 (Winsteps.com, Beaverton, OR) was used to assess the fit of the Catquest-9SF data to the Rasch model. Rasch analysis showed that Catquest-9SF applied to corneal transplant patients was unidimensional (infit range, 0.73-1.32; outfit range, 0.81-1.35), and therefore, measured a single underlying construct (visual disability). The Rasch model explained 68.5% of raw variance. The response categories of the 9-item questionnaire were ordered, and the category thresholds were well defined. Item difficulty matched the level of patients' ability (0.36 logit difference between the means). Precision in terms of person separation (3.09) and person reliability (0.91) was good. Differential item functioning was notable for only 1 item (satisfaction with vision), which had a differential item functioning contrast of 1.08 logit. Rasch analysis showed that Catquest-9SF is a valid instrument for measuring visual disability in patients who have undergone corneal transplantation primarily to improve vision.

Parent-Based Sleep Education for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders

PubMed Central

Malow, Beth A.; Adkins, Karen W.; Reynolds, Ann; Weiss, Shelly K.; Loh, Alvin; Fawkes, Diane; Katz, Terry; Goldman, Suzanne E.; Madduri, Niru; Hundley, Rachel; Clemons, Traci

2013-01-01

This study provided sleep education to parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to determine whether an individual or group format was more effective in improving sleep and aspects of daytime behavior and family functioning. Eighty children, ages 2-10 years, with ASD and sleep onset delay completed the study. Actigraphy and parent questionnaires were collected at baseline and one month after treatment. Mode of education did not affect outcomes. Sleep latency, insomnia subscales on the Children's Sleep Habits Questionnaire, and other outcomes related to child and family functioning improved with treatment. Parent-based sleep education, delivered in relatively few sessions, was associated with improved sleep onset delay in children with ASD. Group vs. individualized education did not affect outcome. PMID:23754339

Parent-based sleep education for children with autism spectrum disorders.

PubMed

Malow, Beth A; Adkins, Karen W; Reynolds, Ann; Weiss, Shelly K; Loh, Alvin; Fawkes, Diane; Katz, Terry; Goldman, Suzanne E; Madduri, Niru; Hundley, Rachel; Clemons, Traci

2014-01-01

This study provided sleep education to parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to determine whether an individual or group format was more effective in improving sleep and aspects of daytime behavior and family functioning. Eighty children, ages 2-10 years, with ASD and sleep onset delay completed the study. Actigraphy and parent questionnaires were collected at baseline and 1 month after treatment. Mode of education did not affect outcomes. Sleep latency, insomnia subscales on the Children's Sleep Habits Questionnaire, and other outcomes related to child and family functioning improved with treatment. Parent-based sleep education, delivered in relatively few sessions, was associated with improved sleep onset delay in children with ASD. Group versus individualized education did not affect outcome.

The impact of sepsis, delirium, and psychological distress on self-rated cognitive function in ICU survivors-a prospective cohort study.

PubMed

Brück, Emily; Schandl, Anna; Bottai, Matteo; Sackey, Peter

2018-01-01

Many intensive care unit (ICU) survivors develop psychological problems and cognitive impairment. The relation between sepsis, delirium, and later cognitive problems is not fully elucidated, and the impact of psychological symptoms on cognitive function is poorly studied in ICU survivors. The primary aim of this study was to examine the relationship between sepsis, ICU delirium, and later self-rated cognitive function. A second aim was to investigate the association between psychological problems and self-rated cognitive function 3 months after the ICU stay. Patients staying more than 24 h at the general ICU at the Karolinska University Hospital Solna, Stockholm, Sweden, were screened for delirium with the Confusion Assessment Method-ICU (CAM-ICU) during their ICU stay. Sepsis incidence and severity were recorded. Three months later, 216 patients received the Cognitive Failures Questionnaire (CFQ), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and Post-Traumatic Stress Symptoms-10 (PTSS-10) questionnaires via postal mail. One hundred twenty-five patients (60%) responded to all questionnaires. Among respondents, the incidence of severe sepsis or septic shock was 42%. The overall incidence of delirium was 34%. Patients with severe sepsis/septic shock had a higher incidence of delirium, with an odds ratio (OR) of 3.7 (95% confidence interval (CI), 1.7-8.1). Self-rated cognitive problems 3 months post-ICU were found in 58% of the patients. We did not find any association between sepsis or delirium and late self-rated cognitive function. However, there was a correlation between psychological symptoms and self-rated cognitive function, with the strongest correlation between PTSS-10 scores and CFQ scores ( r  = 0.53; p  < 0.001). ICU delirium is more common in severely septic/septic shock patients. In our cohort, neither severe sepsis nor ICU delirium was associated with self-rated cognitive function 3 months after the ICU stay. Ongoing psychological symptoms, particularly post-traumatic stress was associated with worse self-rated cognitive function. Psychological symptoms need to be taken into account when assessing cognitive function in ICU survivors.

Effects of laser procedure for female urodynamic stress incontinence on pad weight, urodynamics, and sexual function.

PubMed

Tien, Yi-Wen; Hsiao, Sheng-Mou; Lee, Chien-Nan; Lin, Ho-Hsiung

2017-03-01

The impact of the IncontiLase TM procedure on lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) remains unclear. Our aim was to evaluate the effects of the IncontiLase TM procedure for urodynamic stress incontinence (USI). All consecutive women with USI prospectively underwent the IncontiLase TM procedure. Urodynamic studies, pad testing, LUTS, and sexual function questionnaires were assessed before and after treatment. Thirty-five women underwent the IncontiLase TM procedure. Among the 28 women with baseline pad weights >1 g, 11 (39.3 %) were objectively cured and 11 (39.3 %) improved. Among the 18 women with mild USI (i.e., baseline pad weight 1-10 g), nine (50 %) were cured and five (27.8 %) improved. Among ten women with baseline pad weight >10 g, two (20 %) were cured and six (60 %) improved. Among the 32 women with complete questionnaire data at 6 months, seven (21.9 %) were subjectively cured, and four (12.5 %) improved. Regarding LUTS, the majority of domains on the King's Health Questionnaire and female sexual desire and function exhibited significant improvements. Forty percent (12/30) of the partners of these patients felt their sexual function had improved at 6 months. Nonetheless, urodynamic values did not differ across the timeline. The effect of the IncontiLase TM procedure for mild USI was moderate at 6-month follow-up but was not effective for pad weight >10 g. Moreover, it improved LUTS, quality of life, QoL, and sexual function of both partners. Further studies should be performed to assess long-term sustained efficacy.

Self-Reported Decline in Everyday Function, Cognitive Symptoms, and Cognitive Function in People With HIV.

PubMed

Laverick, Rosanna; Haddow, Lewis; Daskalopoulou, Marina; Lampe, Fiona; Gilson, Richard; Speakman, Andrew; Antinori, Andrea; Bruun, Tina; Vassilenko, Anna; Collins, Simon; Rodger, Alison

2017-11-01

We determined factors associated with self-reported decline in activities of daily living (ADLs) and symptoms of cognitive impairment in HIV positive adults in 5 European clinics. HIV+ adults underwent computerized and pen-and-paper neuropsychological tests and questionnaires of cognitive symptoms and ADLs. We considered cognitive function in 5 domains, psychosocial factors, and clinical parameters as potentially associated with symptoms. Separate regression analyses were used to determine factors associated with a decline in ADL (defined as self-reported decline affecting ≥2 ADLs and attributed to cognitive difficulties) and self-reported frequency of symptoms of cognitive impairment. We also estimated the diagnostic accuracy of both questionnaires as tests for cognitive impairment. Four hundred forty-eight patients completed the assessments [mean age 45.8 years, 84% male, 87% white, median CD4 count 550 cells/mm, median time since HIV diagnosis 9.9 years, 81% virologically suppressed (HIV-1 plasma RNA <50 copies/mL)]. Ninety-six (21.4%) reported decline in ADLs and attributed this to cognitive difficulties. Self-reported decline in ADLs and increased symptoms of cognitive impairment were both associated with worse performance on some cognitive tests. There were also strong associations with financial difficulties, depressive and anxiety symptoms, unemployment, and longer time since HIV diagnosis. Both questionnaires performed poorly as diagnostic tests for cognitive impairment. Patients' own assessments of everyday function and symptoms were associated with objectively measured cognitive function. However, there were strong associations with other psychosocial issues including mood and anxiety disorders and socioeconomic hardship. This should be considered when assessing HIV-associated cognitive impairment in clinical care or research studies.

Inter-relationships between sexual abuse, female sexual function and childbirth.

PubMed

Gottfried, Ruth; Lev-Wiesel, Rachel; Hallak, Mordechai; Lang-Franco, Nessia

2015-11-01

the present quantitative longitudinal study focuses on the inter-relationships between sexual abuse, distressed female sexual function and childbirth. Additional variables studied include depression, mode of delivery, subjective birth experience and traumatic life events other than sexual abuse. data collection for the study was extended across three time periods: during the third trimester of pregnancy and approximately one and six months postpartum. Self-reported questionnaire responses of 300 women from two medical centres in Israel, as well as hospital records regarding their mode of childbirth, were included in the data analysis. Measures incorporated in the study included the Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised, the Beck Depression Inventory and modified versions of the Traumatic Events Questionnaire, the Sexual Experiences Survey, and the Subjective Birth Experience Questionnaire. findings demonstrated that women with a lifetime history of sexual abuse compared to women without such history, are at an increased risk for distressed antenatal and postpartum female sexual function (Odds Ratio OR=2.66 and OR=2.26, respectively); and postpartum depression (OR=2.36). Antenatal depression was likewise shown to be significantly associated with antenatal and postpartum distressed female sexual function (OR=4.32 and OR=10.4, respectively), as well as with a more negatively experienced childbirth (T-Ratio, T=1.98, p<0.05). Moreover, distressed antenatal female sexual function was found to increase the risk for a more negatively experienced childbirth (T=2.04, p<0.05), and caesarean childbirth (OR=3.34). the current study enriches the understanding of the inter-relationships between the antenatal, childbirth and postpartum variables studied herein; and has implications for evidence based practice in both preventative and intervention efforts. Recommendations for future research are presented and discussed. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Impact of a Stress Management Intervention Program on Sexual Functioning and Stress Reduction in Women with Breast Cancer

PubMed Central

Shayan, Arezoo; Jamshidi, Farkhondeh; Tahmasebiboldaji, Vahid; Khani, Somayeh; Babaei, Maryam; Havasian, Mohamad Reza; Masoumi, Seyedeh Zahra

2017-01-01

Breast cancer as the most common cancer among women endangers various aspects of their sexual lives and is a major culprit regarding health impairment and low life quality. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of a stress management intervention program on sexual functioning and stress reduction in women with breast cancer. This study employed a quasi-experimental pre-test, post-test design which included follow-up checks and a control group. To this end, 104 women with breast cancer referring to Hamadan’s Mahdiyeh MRI Center at the time of data collection were conventionally selected in 2015. Using permuted blocks, they were randomly divided into experimental and control groups (n= 52), only the former receiving stress management counseling for 18 hours. Data were collected through a demographic questionnaire, the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaire, and Harry’s stress questionnaire, filled out by patients before and after the intervention. To analyze the data, descriptive statistics and two-way ANOVA were used. The results showed that cognitive - behavioral stress management group therapy improved total sexual functioning and its subscales. After the treatment, there was a significant difference in mean scores between the groups (p=0.01). Moreover, significant differences were observed in the mean scores for stress with improvement in the experimental group in post-test results. Cognitive - behavioral group therapy for stress management was thuis found to improve total sexual functioning and its subscales and reduce the level of stress in the experimental group after the intervention and follow-up period with an interval of two weeks. Therefore, this method can be used as a complementary therapy along with medical treatment in oncology centers. PMID:29072415

Cross-cultural adaptation and validation of a Bengali version of the modified fibromyalgia impact questionnaire.

PubMed

Muquith, Mohammed A; Islam, Md Nazrul; Haq, Syed A; Ten Klooster, Peter M; Rasker, Johannes J; Yunus, Muhammad B

2012-08-27

Currently, no validated instruments are available to measure the health status of Bangladeshi patients with fibromyalgia (FM). The aims of this study were to cross-culturally adapt the modified Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) into Bengali (B-FIQ) and to test its validity and reliability in Bangladeshi patients with FM. The FIQ was translated following cross-cultural adaptation guidelines and pretested in 30 female patients with FM. Next, the adapted B-FIQ was physician-administered to 102 consecutive female FM patients together with the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), selected subscales of the SF-36, and visual analog scales for current clinical symptoms. A tender point count (TPC) was performed by an experienced rheumatologist. Forty randomly selected patients completed the B-FIQ again after 7 days. Two control groups of 50 healthy people and 50 rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients also completed the B-FIQ. For the final B-FIQ, five physical function sub-items were replaced with culturally appropriate equivalents. Internal consistency was adequate for both the 11-item physical function subscale (α = 0.73) and the total scale (α = 0.83). With exception of the physical function subscale, expected correlations were generally observed between the B-FIQ items and selected subscales of the SF-36, HAQ, clinical symptoms, and TPC. The B-FIQ was able to discriminate between FM patients and healthy controls and between FM patients and RA patients. Test-retest reliability was adequate for the physical function subscale (r = 0.86) and individual items (r = 0.73-0.86), except anxiety (r = 0.27) and morning tiredness (r = 0.64). This study supports the reliability and validity of the B-FIQ as a measure of functional disability and health status in Bangladeshi women with FM.

Relations between brain volumes, neuropsychological assessment and parental questionnaire in prematurely born children.

PubMed

Lind, Annika; Haataja, Leena; Rautava, Liisi; Väliaho, Anniina; Lehtonen, Liisa; Lapinleimu, Helena; Parkkola, Riitta; Korkman, Marit

2010-05-01

The objective of this study is to assess the relationship between brain volumes at term equivalent age and neuropsychological functions at 5 years of age in very low birth weight (VLBW) children, and to compare the results from a neuropsychological assessment and a parental questionnaire at 5 years of age. The study group included a regional cohort of 97 VLBW children and a control group of 161 children born at term. At term equivalent age, brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed on the VLBW children, and analysed for total and regional brain volumes. At 5 years of age, a psychologist assessed the neuropsychological performance with NEPSY II, and parents completed the Five to fifteen (FTF) questionnaire on development and behaviour. The results of the control group were used to give the age-specific reference values. No significant associations were found between the brain volumes and the NEPSY II domains. As for the FTF, significant associations were found between a smaller total brain tissue volume and poorer executive functions, between a smaller cerebellar volume and both poorer executive functions and motor skills, and, surprisingly, between a larger volume of brainstem and poorer language functions. Even after adjustment for total brain tissue volume, the two associations between the cerebellar volume and the FTF domains remained borderline significant (P = 0.05). The NEPSY II domains Executive Functioning, Language and Motor Skills were significantly associated with the corresponding FTF domains. In conclusion, altered brain volumes at term equivalent age appear to affect development still at 5 years of age. The FTF seems to be a good instrument when used in combination with other neuropsychological assessment.

Functional health status of adults with tetralogy of Fallot: matched comparison with healthy siblings.

PubMed

Knowles, Rachel; Veldtman, Gruschen; Hickey, Edward J; Bradley, Timothy; Gengsakul, Aungkana; Webb, Gary D; Williams, William G; McCrindle, Brian W

2012-07-01

Survival prospects for adults with repaired tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) are now excellent. Attention should therefore shift to assessing and improving functional health status and quality of life. We aimed to assess late functional health status of adults surviving TOF repair by matched comparison to their healthy siblings. All 1,693 TOF repairs performed at our institution between 1946 and 1990 were reviewed. A matched comparison was undertaken whereby presumed survivors and their healthy sibling were contacted and asked to complete the Ontario Health Survey 1990 and the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) questionnaire. Both questionnaires were completed by 224 adult survivors and their sibling closest in age. Adults with repaired TOF had lower scores for self-perceived general health status (p < 0.001), were less likely to rate their health as good or excellent (p < 0.001), and had lower SF-36 scores for physical functioning and general health (p = 0.001) than their siblings. However, patients reported similar satisfaction with their lives, similar levels of social participation and support, and were as likely to be in long-term partnerships. Worse physical and mental health scores were associated with older age at surgery and at time of questionnaire completion and recent requirement for noncardiac medication. Although reporting lower functional health status then their siblings, quality of life and life satisfaction for adults who underwent surgery for TOF during childhood is comparable to that of their siblings without heart defects. Follow-up of younger adults is required to understand current health outcomes attributable to improvements in the management of TOF. Copyright © 2012 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Measuring presenteeism: which questionnaire to use in physical activity research?

PubMed

Brown, Helen Elizabeth; Burton, Nicola; Gilson, Nicholas David; Brown, Wendy

2014-02-01

An emerging area of interest in workplace health is presenteeism; the measurable extent to which physical or psychosocial symptoms, conditions and disease adversely affect the work productivity of those who choose to remain at work. Given established links between presenteeism and health, and health and physical activity, presenteeism could be an important outcome in workplace physical activity research. This study provides a narrative review of questionnaires for use in such research. Eight self-report measures of presenteeism were identified. Information regarding development, constructs measured and psychometric properties was extracted from relevant articles. Questionnaires were largely self-administered, had 4-44 items, and recall periods ranging from 1 week to 1 year. Items were identified as assessing work performance, physical tolerance, psychological well-being and social or role functioning. Samples used to test questionnaires were predominantly American male employees, with an age range of 30-59 years. All instruments had undergone psychometric assessment, most commonly discriminant and construct validity. Based on instrument characteristics, the range of conceptual foci covered and acceptable measurement properties, the Health and Work Questionnaire, Work Ability Index, and Work Limitations Questionnaire are suggested as most suitable for further exploring the relationship between physical activity and presenteeism.

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.

Self-reported Rates of Interpersonal Conflict Vary as a Function of Questionnaire Format: Why Age-related Trends in Disagreement (and Other Events) May Not be What They Seem

PubMed Central

Dirghangi, Shrija; Laursen, Brett; Puder, Justin; Bjorklund, Dave; DeLay, Dawn

2014-01-01

Two studies examine whether self-reports of interpersonal conflict differ as a function of how the question is asked. In Study 1, 56 U.S. college students (M=20.7 years) completed different versions of a questionnaire, four times, at one week intervals. Participants reported more conflicts with the aid of memory prompts than without, an effect that was especially strong when questions focused on events from the previous day. In Study 2, 123 middle-school students (M=11.08 years) and 128 primary school students (M=8.2 years) from the same region completed one of two questionnaires describing conflict during the previous day. Children reported more conflicts with memory prompts than without. The effect was twice as strong for younger children than older children. The findings suggest that increases in reports of conflict across the transition into adolescence may be due to improvements in the ability to recall and recount events in the absence of memory cues. PMID:25086497

Rasch analysis of the carers quality of life questionnaire for parkinsonism.

PubMed

Pillas, Marios; Selai, Caroline; Schrag, Anette

2017-03-01

To assess the psychometric properties of the Carers Quality of Life Questionnaire for Parkinsonism using a Rasch modeling approach and determine the optimal cut-off score. We performed a Rasch analysis of the survey answers of 430 carers of patients with atypical parkinsonism. All of the scale items demonstrated acceptable goodness of fit to the Rasch model. The scale was unidimensional and no notable differential item functioning was detected in the items regarding age and disease type. Rating categories were functioning adequately in all scale items. The scale had high reliability (.95) and construct validity and a high degree of precision, distinguishing between 5 distinct groups of carers with different levels of quality of life. A cut-off score of 62 was found to have the optimal screening accuracy based on Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale subscores. The results suggest that the Carers Quality of Life Questionnaire for Parkinsonism is a useful scale to assess carers' quality of life and allows analyses requiring interval scaling of variables. © 2016 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society. © 2016 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.

Assessment of pupillary influence in LASIK patients using a digital pupillometer and VQF 25 questionnaire.

PubMed

Andrade, Eduardo Marcelo Moron de; Chamon, Wallace

2013-10-01

Identify ideal profiles in patients undergoing to photorefractive laser surgery with the aid of an automated pupillometry and psychometric analysis of patients with visual function questionnaire (VQF 25). Seventy-seven patients undergoing photorefractive laser surgery laser (LASIK) were analyzed with the aid of an automated digital pupillometer based on an infrared camera coupled to the optical head of a videokeratography system. Patients underwent complete ophthalmic evaluation and documentation of the pupillary behavior under different intensities of illumination, simulating situations of everyday life. Visual quality function questionnaire, translated to Portuguese was assessed. All patients, regardless of pupillary change under varying conditions of illumination (scotopic, mesopic and photopic) showed improvement in all sub-groups of the VQF 25. Pupil diameter was not the primary determinant of patients' visual satisfaction. Despite digital pupillometer has proven to be a useful tool in documenting and understanding of pupil behavior, a set of factors such as psycho-social profile, preoperative ametropy and final residual ametropy, contributed decisively to determine the degree of satisfaction of patients undergoing LASIK.

Measuring participation in children with Gilles de la Tourette syndrome: a pilot study with ICF-CY.

PubMed

Meucci, Paolo; Leonardi, Matilde; Zibordi, Federica; Nardocci, Nardo

2009-01-01

Environmental factors (EF) have an important role on Tourette's symptoms and the same factors can be decisive on the impact that the disease has on people with Tourette syndrome (TS) daily life. The research was carried out by the Neurological Institute Carlo Besta IRCCS Foundation with the principal objective of describing the complete range of functional profiles of children with TS, to define the functioning and the difficulties in social participation. The research protocol was composed of the ICF-CY questionnaire, WHO-DAS II proxy version, the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale and the Kidscreen questionnaires - Quality of life (QoL) questionnaires for children and adolescents. The research protocol involved a multidisciplinary team (medical staff, psychologist, pedagogist). The children reported higher QoL's level than the QoL attributed by parents. The Vineland scores reflected considerable difficulties in socialisation. Through the EF analysis, this study highlights the facilitating role of the immediate family and health professionals. Beyond the clinical symptoms, this study points out that the therapeutic elements must be identified by a change of environment, and not only in a child's adaptation ability.

Development of an Encompassing Questionnaire for Evaluating the Outcomes Following Total Knee Arthroplasty.

PubMed

Chughtai, Morad; Khlopas, Anton; Thomas, Melbin; Gwam, Chukwuweike U; Jauregui, Julio J; Elmallah, Randa K; Roche, Martin; Delanois, Ronald E

2017-01-10

There are many standardized scales and questionnaires used to evaluate TKA patients; however, individually they do not always assess patients adequately. Consequently, many are used in combinations to provide a thorough evaluation. However, this leads to redundancy, confusion, and an excessive patient time-burden. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to develop a usable combined knee questionnaire that combines questions in a non-redundant manner. Specifically, we aimed to: 1) create a combined knee questionnaire that encompasses questions from multiple systems, while eliminating redundancy; 2) correlate the new system with the existing validated questionnaires; and 3) determine the length of time it takes to administer this new questionnaire. In a previous study, it was determined that the six most commonly cited validated systems to assess the knee were the: Knee Society Score (KSS), The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC), Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS), Activity Rating Scale (ARS), and Short-Form-36 (SF-36). Therefore, we ensured that the new questionnaire encompassed all elements of these systems. After development of the combined questionnaire, we co-administered it to 20 subjects alongside the above validated questionnaires. We then transposed the corresponding answers from the combined questionnaire to each selected validated system to perform an intra-class correlation analysis. In addition, we recorded the length of time it took to administer the new questionnaire and compared it to the time it took to administer the individual validated questionnaires. Intra-class correlation analysis demonstrated statistically significant positive correlations between the KSS, WOMAC, KOOS, LEFS, ARS, SF-36, and the corresponding questions in the combined questionnaire. The mean length of time it took to administer the combined questionnaire (mean, 10.1 minutes, range, 6.6 to 12.6 minutes) was significantly shorter than the time it took to administer the selected validated questionnaires (mean, 21.3 minutes, range, 17.3 to 24.1 minutes). We have proposed an all-encompassing combined knee questionnaire that eliminates redundancy and inefficiency during the evaluation of TKA patients. It is a reliable, time-efficient system that can be utilized to fill out the most commonly used questionnaires for assessing TKA. Standardization and uniform use of this questionnaire may simplify future patient assessment following TKA.

[A new questionnaire for the assessment of parental health literacy].

PubMed

Gács, Zsófia; Berend, Katalin; Csanádi, Gábor; Csizmady, Adrienne

2015-10-18

Parental health literacy is an important factor of pediatric health. Although it is thorougly studied in other countries, neither proper definition, nor adequate tool for its measurement exists in Hungarian. The aim of this work was to define the dimensions of parental health literacy and to introduce a questionnaire for its measurement. Opinions of parents, pediatric nurses and pediatricians on parental health literacy were used to establish the definition and basic components. Based on these and previously standardized tests a new questionnaire was developed. Four dimensions of parental health literacy were formulated such as knowledge, functional literacy, self-confidence and motivation. The new questionnaire assesses all four dimension through eight topics. This is the first culturally adapted definition and test of parental health literacy in Hungarian. With its application the efficacy of both primary care services and health education may be improved and the correlation between parental health literacy and pediatric health may be properly studied.

Individual significance of olfaction: development of a questionnaire.

PubMed

Croy, Ilona; Buschhüter, Dorothee; Seo, Han-Seok; Negoias, Simona; Hummel, Thomas

2010-01-01

Clinical experience shows that the individual significance of olfactory function varies between subjects. In order to estimate these individual differences we developed a questionnaire to study the subjective importance of the sense of smell. Questions were arranged within three subscales: association with olfactory sensations, application of the sense of smell, and the readiness to draw consequences from the olfactory perception. The questionnaire was shown to be time efficient, suitable for normosmic subjects and patients with hyposmia or anosmia. It exhibited a good internal reliability (Cronbach's Alpha = 0.77). First results in 123 subjects indicate that the subjective importance of the sense of smell stays at the same level throughout life-span despite of a decreased olfactory sensitivity. Furthermore, women reported a higher importance of olfaction. It is hoped that this questionnaire will contribute to clarify, for example, cross-cultural differences in the perception of odours.

Not throwing out the baby with the bathwater: lessons from the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire.

PubMed

van Wilgen, C Paul; Vuijk, Pieter Jelle; van Ittersum, Miriam W; Nijs, Jo

2013-03-01

The Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) is the most frequently used questionnaire in patients with fibromyalgia in the last 20 years. Recently, a revised version of the FIQ has been published. In this study, we examined the factor structure of the original version using explorative and confirmative factor analyses in a representative group of about 500 Dutch and Belgian patients with fibromyalgia, in which the work-related item was excluded. The FIQ consisting of a three-factor structure with a functional domain (ten items), physical symptom domain (six items), and mental symptom domain (two items), which is the most accurate. From the data presented, it is concluded that the FIQ is a solid, worldwide-used questionnaire with a history of 20 years consisting of three domains. When constructing a revised FIQ, the results of this study can be incorporated.

Hardware Description of Mass Weather Dissemination System Exploratory Engineering Model.

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-09-01

TELCO BARGE-IN TLOSSE LOCAL TELCO BARGE-IN i • TELCO SYSTEM EQUIPMENT NORTH ROUTES TELCO BARGE-IN’ ’ RE-I...34 TELCO SYSTEM EQUIPMENT SOUTH/WEST ROUTES 81- FIGURE 1. FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION OF THE TRIAL PATWAS OPERATION 2 f . .... " I’, ." The New York City PATWAS...du ring the test for both the old and improved PATWAS systems , and (3) questionnaire data from four questionnaires, one for an initial appraisal

Diagnosing Sexual Dysfunction in Men and Women: Sexual History Taking and the Role of Symptom Scales and Questionnaires.

PubMed

Hatzichristou, Dimitris; Kirana, Paraskevi-Sofia; Banner, Linda; Althof, Stanley E; Lonnee-Hoffmann, Risa A M; Dennerstein, Lorraine; Rosen, Raymond C

2016-08-01

A detailed sexual history is the cornerstone for all sexual problem assessments and sexual dysfunction diagnoses. Diagnostic evaluation is based on an in-depth sexual history, including sexual and gender identity and orientation, sexual activity and function, current level of sexual function, overall health and comorbidities, partner relationship and interpersonal factors, and the role of cultural and personal expectations and attitudes. To propose key steps in the diagnostic evaluation of sexual dysfunctions, with special focus on the use of symptom scales and questionnaires. Critical assessment of the current literature by the International Consultation on Sexual Medicine committee. A revised algorithm for the management of sexual dysfunctions, level of evidence, and recommendation for scales and questionnaires. The International Consultation on Sexual Medicine proposes an updated algorithm for diagnostic evaluation of sexual dysfunction in men and women, with specific recommendations for sexual history taking and diagnostic evaluation. Standardized scales, checklists, and validated questionnaires are additional adjuncts that should be used routinely in sexual problem evaluation. Scales developed for specific patient groups are included. Results of this evaluation are presented with recommendations for clinical and research uses. Defined principles, an algorithm and a range of scales may provide coherent and evidence based management for sexual dysfunctions. Copyright © 2016 International Society for Sexual Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The Manual Work Instability Scale: development and validation.

PubMed

Gilworth, G; Smyth, M G; Smith, J; Tennant, A

2016-06-01

Increasing awareness of the burden of absenteeism and reduced performance at work highlights the importance of early identification of individuals experiencing work instability (WI), a mismatch between functional and cognitive abilities and job demands. To develop and validate a screening questionnaire to measure WI in manual workers. Questionnaire items were generated via qualitative interviews with manual workers and a draft survey instrument was completed by workers in a variety of fields. Rasch analysis was used interactively to assess the psychometric aspects of the emerging scale, including unidimensionality and absence of item bias (differential item functioning). A total of 17 qualitative interviews generated 110 potential items for the questionnaire. The item set resolved to a 25-item scale, which satisfied model expectations (item residual mean = -0.13, SD = 1.04; person residual mean = -0.29, SD = 0.75), had good reliability (alpha = 0.86) and strict unidimensionality (t-test 7.5% confidence interval 3.8-11.2). The Manual Work Instability Scale is a short psychometrically robust questionnaire based on the concept of WI, which incorporates both musculoskeletal symptoms and relevant psychosocial factors. It may prove effective in screening and identifying WI in workers in predominantly physical occupations. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society of Occupational Medicine. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

High-power Magnetotherapy: A New Weapon in Urinary Incontinence?

PubMed

Vadalà, Maria; Palmieri, Beniamino; Malagoli, Andrea; Laurino, Carmen

2017-06-18

Urinary incontinence (UI) is one of the most common urinary system diseases that mostly affects women but also men. We evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of functional magnetic stimulation (FMS) as potential UI treatment with improvements in the pelvic floor musculature, urodynamic tests and quality of life. A total of 20 UI patients (10 females and 10 men, mean age 64, 14 years), including 10 with stress UI, four with urgency UI and six with mixed UI, were treated with FMS (20 min/session) twice a week for 3 weeks. The patients' impressions, records in urinary diaries, and scores of three life stress questionnaires (overactive bladder symptom questionnaire [OAB-q], urogenital distress inventory questionnaire-short form [UDI-6], incontinence impact questionnaire-short form [IIQ-7]) were performed pre- and post-treatment. Significant reductions (P < 0.01) of micturition number and nocturia after magnetic treatment were evidenced. The urodynamic tests recorded a significant increase in cystometric capacity (147 ± 51.3%), in maximum urethral closure pressure (110 ± 34%), in urethral functional length (99.8 ± 51.8%), and in pressure transmission ratio (147 ± 51.3%) values compared with the baseline values. These preliminary findings suggest that FMS with Magneto STYM (twice weekly for 3 weeks) improves the UI and may be an effective treatment for this urogenital disease. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.

Validation of an Italian version of the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ-I).

PubMed

Sarzi-Puttini, P; Atzeni, F; Fiorini, T; Panni, B; Randisi, G; Turiel, M; Carrabba, M

2003-01-01

To validate a translated Italian version of the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ). The Italian version of the FIQ was administered to 50 patients affected by fibromyalgia (FM) (48 patients filled out the questionnaire again 10 days later) together with the Italian version of the Stanford Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), the Medical Outcomes Survey Short Form-36 (SF-36), and a tender point count (TPC) obtained by summing the score (0-3) of each tender point tested by thumb palpation. All patients were asked about the severity of pain today (10 cm visual analog scale) and the duration of symptoms. Test-retest reliability was assessed using Spearman correlations. Internal consistency was evaluated with Cronbach's alpha of reliability. Construct validity of the FIQ was evaluated by correlations between the HAQ and subscales of the SF-36 as well as the TPC. The mean duration of symptoms was 6.5 years and the mean age of the participants was 57.4 years. Test-retest reliability was between 0.74 and 0.95 for physical functioning as well as for the total FIQ and other components. Internal consistency was 0.90 for the overall FIQ. Significant correlations were obtained between the FIQ items, the HAQ and the SF-36. The Italian FIQ is a reliable and valid instrument for detecting and measuring functional disability and health status in Italian patients with FM.

The relationship between executive functions and IQ in Korean children and the comparison with Chinese children.

PubMed

Song, Hyunjoo; Jinyu, An

2017-01-01

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between perceived/performance-based executive function and IQ. Additionally, the relationship between perceived executive function and intelligence was investigated cross-culturally between South Korea and China. Korean children (60; M = 34, F = 26, Mean age = 10.35) were included in study 1, and Korean children (43, M = 23, F = 20, Mean age = 10.05) and Chinese children (56; M = 29, F = 27, Mean age = 10.40) were included in study 2. The Korean-Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-IV, the Stroop test, the CTT-2, and the executive function questionnaire were used for Korean subjects, and the Raven's matrix test and the executive function questionnaire were used for Korean and Chinese subjects. Multiple regression showed that CTT-2(RT), emotional control difficulty, and Color Word within a 45' Stroop test trial were significant predictors of total IQ. The cross-cultural analysis showed a statistically significant difference between the two countries in the emotional control aspect of perceived executive function. There were no interactions between country and intelligence. In conclusion, intelligence was related to overall executive function. Korean children and Chinese children showed cultural differences in processing emotion. These results are expected to contribute to developing therapeutic strategies for executive function in children and to exchanging these strategies between Korea and China.

Community-Based Rehabilitation to Improve Stroke Survivors' Rehabilitation Participation and Functional Recovery.

PubMed

Ru, Xiaojuan; Dai, Hong; Jiang, Bin; Li, Ninghua; Zhao, Xingquan; Hong, Zhen; He, Li; Wang, Wenzhi

2017-07-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a community-based rehabilitation appropriate technique (CRAT) intervention program in increasing rehabilitation participation and improving functional recovery of stroke survivors. This study followed a quasi-experimental design. In each of 5 centers servicing approximately 50,000 individuals, 2 communities were designated as either the intervention or control community. A CRAT intervention program, including 2-year rehabilitation education and 3-month CRAT treatment, was regularly implemented in the intervention communities, whereas there was no special intervention in the control community. Two sampling surveys, at baseline and after intervention, were administered to evaluate the rehabilitation activity undertaken. In intervention communities, stroke survivor's motor function, daily activity, and social activity were evaluated pretreatment and posttreatment, using the Fugl-Meyer Motor Function Assessment, Barthel index, and Social Functional Activities Questionnaire. The proportion of individuals participating in rehabilitation-related activity was increased significantly (P < 0.05) in intervention communities, as compared with control communities. In intervention communities, the patients' Fugl-Meyer Motor Function Assessment, Barthel index, and Social Functional Activities Questionnaire scores were significantly improved after rehabilitation (P < 0.05) across all ages and disease courses, except for the FAQ scores in patients younger than 50 years (P > 0.05). Community-based rehabilitation appropriate technique increases rehabilitation participation rates and enhances motor function, daily activity, and social activity of stroke survivors.

Health-related quality of life questionnaire for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOSQ-50): development and psychometric properties.

PubMed

Nasiri-Amiri, Fatemeh; Ramezani Tehrani, Fahimeh; Simbar, Masoumeh; Montazeri, Ali; Mohammadpour, Reza Ali

2016-07-01

The determinants of the health-related quality of life of women with polycystic ovary syndrome are not fully understood. The aim of this study was to develop a comprehensive instrument to assess the health-related quality of life of Iranian women with PCOS and to assess its psychometric properties. We used a mixed-method, sequential, exploratory design including both qualitative [in-depth interview to define the components of health-related quality of life questionnaire (PCOSQ)] and quantitative approaches (to assess the psychometric properties of PCOSQ). A preliminary questionnaire was developed including 147 items which emerged from the qualitative phase of the study. Considering the optimum cutoff points for content validity ratio (CVR), content validity index (CVI), and impact score, items of the preliminary questionnaire were reduced from 147 to 88 items. Finally, by excluding highly correlated items using the exploratory factor analysis, a 50-item questionnaire was obtained. The Kaiser criteria (eigenvalues >1) and Scree plot tests demonstrated that six factors were optimum with an estimated 47.3 % of variance. Assessment of the psychometric properties of the questionnaire demonstrated a mean CVI = 0.92, CVR = 0.91, Cronbach's alpha for whole questionnaire = 0.88 (0.61-0.88 for subscales), Spearman's correlation coefficients of test-retest = 0.75, and the intra-class correlation coefficient for the PCOS questionnaire subscales ranging from 0.57 to 0.88. Eventually the final questionnaire included 50 items in six domains, 'psychosocial and emotional,' 'fertility,' 'sexual function,' 'obesity and menstrual disorders,' 'hirsutism,' and 'coping' and rated on a 5-point Likert scale. The PCOSQ-50 is a valid and reliable instrument for the assessment of quality of life of women with PCOS, capable of assessing some obscure aspects overlooked by previous HRQL questionnaires.

The development and validation of the King's Brief Interstitial Lung Disease (K-BILD) health status questionnaire.

PubMed

Patel, Amit S; Siegert, Richard J; Brignall, Katherine; Gordon, Patrick; Steer, Sophia; Desai, Sujal R; Maher, Toby M; Renzoni, Elisabetta A; Wells, Athol U; Higginson, Irene J; Birring, Surinder S

2012-09-01

Health status is impaired in patients with interstitial lung disease (ILD). There is a paucity of tools that assess health status in ILD. The objective of this study was to develop and validate the King's Brief Interstitial Lung Disease questionnaire (K-BILD), a new health status measure for patients with ILD. Patients with ILD were recruited from outpatient clinics. The development of the questionnaire consisted of three phases: item generation; item reduction, allocation to domains by factor analysis, Rasch analysis to create unidimensional scales and validation; and repeatability testing. 173 patients with ILD (49 with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis) completed a preliminary 71-item questionnaire. 56 items were removed due to redundancy, low factor loadings or poor fit to the Rasch model. The final version of the K-BILD questionnaire consisted of 15 items and three domains (breathlessness and activities, chest symptoms and psychological). Internal consistency assessed with Cronbach's α coefficient was 0.94 for the K-BILD total score. Concurrent validity of the K-BILD questionnaire was high compared with St George's Respiratory Questionnaire (r=0.90) and moderate with lung function (vital capacity, r=0.50). The K-BILD questionnaire was repeatable over 2 weeks (n=44), with intraclass correlation coefficients for domains and total score 0.86-0.94. The K-BILD construct validity for patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis was similar to that of other ILDs. The K-BILD questionnaire is a brief, valid, self-completed health status measure for ILD. It could be used in the clinic to assess ILD from the patients' perspective.

Validity and reliability of the TED-QOL: a new three-item questionnaire to assess quality of life in thyroid eye disease.

PubMed

Fayers, Tessa; Dolman, Peter J

2011-12-01

To develop and test a user-friendly questionnaire for rapidly assessing quality of life (QOL) in thyroid eye disease (TED). A three-item questionnaire, the TED-QOL, was designed and compared to the 16-item Graves Ophthalmopathy (GO)-QOL and the nine-item GO-Quality of Life Scale (QLS). 100 patients with TED were administered all three questionnaires on two occasions. Results were compared to clinical severity scores (Vision, Inflammation, Strabismus, Appearance (VISA) classification). Main outcomes were construct and criterion validity, test-retest reliability, duration, comprehension and completion rates. TED-QOL correlated strongly with the other questionnaires for corresponding items (Pearson correlation: appearance 0.71, 0.62; functioning 0.69, 0.66; overall QOL 0.53). Test-retest analysis demonstrated good reliability for all three questionnaires (intraclass correlations: TED-QOL 0.81, 0.74, 0.87; GO-QOL 0.81, 0.82; GO-QLS 0.74, 0.86, 0.67). TED-QOL was significantly faster to complete (1.6 min vs GO-QOL 3.1 min, GO-QLS 2.7 min, p<0.0001) and had a higher completion rate (100% vs GO-QOL 78%, GO-QLS 94%). There was only moderate correlation between items on all three questionnaires and VISA scores. The TED-QOL is rapid and easy to complete and analyse and has similar validity and reliability to longer questionnaires. All questionnaires showed only moderate correlation with disease severity, emphasising the discrepancy between objective and subjective assessments and the importance of measuring both.

Development and initial validation of the Bristol Impact of Hypermobility questionnaire.

PubMed

Palmer, S; Cramp, F; Lewis, R; Gould, G; Clark, E M

2017-06-01

Stage 1 - to identify the impact of joint hypermobility syndrome (JHS) on adults; Stage 2 - to develop a questionnaire to assess the impact of JHS; and Stage 3 - to undertake item reduction and establish the questionnaire's concurrent validity. A mixed methods study employing qualitative focus groups and interviews (Stage 1); a working group of patients, clinicians and researchers, and 'think aloud' interviews (Stage 2); and quantitative analysis of questionnaire responses (Stage 3). Stages 1 and 2 took place in one secondary care hospital in the UK. Members of a UK-wide patient organisation were recruited in Stage 3. In total, 15, four and 615 participants took part in Stages 1, 2 and 3, respectively. Inclusion criteria were: age ≥18 years; diagnosis of JHS; no other conditions affecting physical function; able to give informed consent; and able to understand and communicate in English. None. The development of a questionnaire to assess the impact of JHS. Stage 1 identified a wide range of impairments, activity limitations and participation restrictions In Stage 2, a draft questionnaire was developed and refined following 'think aloud' analysis, leaving 94 scored items. In Stage 3, items were removed on the basis of low severity and/or high correlation with other items. The final Bristol Impact of Hypermobility (BIoH) questionnaire had 55 scored items, and correlated well with the physical component score of the Short Form 36 health questionnaire (r=-0.725). The BIoH questionnaire demonstrated good concurrent validity. Further psychometric properties need to be established. Copyright © 2016 Chartered Society of Physiotherapy. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A pilot study investigating the association between sleep and cognitive function among adolescents.

PubMed

Ahmad, Shafiq; Bashir, Shahid

2017-08-01

To investigate the relationship between sleep and cognitive function among adolescent subjects in Riyadh. The sample consisted of 98 (44% female) subjects aged 10-16 years. Each participant filled in a well-structured pre-coded questionnaire regarding demographic data, including a sleep questionnaire; cognitive function was assessed using the Cambridge Neuropsychological Automated Battery (CANTAB). The cognitive function outcome variables were response times in the attention-switching task (AST) and the percentage of correct answers in the pattern recognition memory (PRM) task. There were significant differences in measures of AST-latency (p=0.005), AST-congruent (p=0.012), and AST-incongruent (p=0.009), while no significant difference was found in the PRM task score (p=0.336) within gender groups. There was a significant correlation between sleep and AST switching cost (0.277, p=0.006) and sleep and AST latency (0.188, p=0.063) across the group. This study showed that gender differences in cognitive function were significant in the group of adolescents. Additionally, this study shows that insufficient sleep can impair attention and accuracy in adolescents. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Perceived functional ability assessed with the spinal function sort: is it valid for European rehabilitation settings in patients with non-specific non-acute low back pain?

PubMed Central

Hilfiker, R.; Kool, J. P.; Bachmann, S.; Hagen, K. B.

2010-01-01

The aim of this study involving 170 patients suffering from non-specific low back pain was to test the validity of the spinal function sort (SFS) in a European rehabilitation setting. The SFS, a picture-based questionnaire, assesses perceived functional ability of work tasks involving the spine. All measurements were taken by a blinded research assistant; work status was assessed with questionnaires. Our study demonstrated a high internal consistency shown by a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.98, reasonable evidence for unidimensionality, spearman correlations of >0.6 with work activities, and discriminating power for work status at 3 and 12 months by ROC curve analysis (area under curve = 0.760 (95% CI 0.689–0.822), respectively, 0.801 (95% CI 0.731–0.859). The standardised response mean within the two treatment groups was 0.18 and −0.31. As a result, we conclude that the perceived functional ability for work tasks can be validly assessed with the SFS in a European rehabilitation setting in patients with non-specific low back pain, and is predictive for future work status. PMID:20490874

Cognitive aspects of sexual functioning: differences between East Asian-Canadian and Euro-Canadian women.

PubMed

Morton, Heather; Gorzalka, Boris B

2013-11-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the sexual beliefs of female undergraduates, as well as the thoughts they experience during sexual experiences. The study aimed to determine potential differences in these variables between East Asian-Canadians and Euro-Canadians, as well as the influence of acculturation on these variables. In addition, the relationships between sexual beliefs, automatic thoughts, and specific aspects of sexual functioning were examined. Euro-Canadian (n = 77) and East Asian-Canadian (n = 123) undergraduate women completed the Sexual Dysfunctional Beliefs Questionnaire, the Sexual Modes Questionnaire, the Female Sexual Function Index, and the Vancouver Index of Acculturation. East Asian women endorsed almost all sexual beliefs assessed in this study more than did Euro-Canadian women, and endorsement of these beliefs was associated with acculturation. In addition, East Asian-Canadian and Euro-Canadian women differed in the frequency of experiencing negative automatic thoughts. Results also revealed associations between difficulties in sexual functioning, and both sexual beliefs and automatic thoughts. Together, these results provide preliminary support for the hypothesis that differences in cognitive aspects of sexuality may underlie the differences in sexual functioning previously observed between these two groups.

What Questionnaires To Use When Measuring Quality Of Life In Sacral Tumor Patients? The Updated Sacral Tumor Survey

PubMed Central

van Wulfften Palthe, Olivier D.R.; Janssen, Stein J.; Wunder, Jay S.; Ferguson, Peter C.; Wei, Guo; Rose, Peter. S.; Yaszemski, Micheal J.; Sim, Franklin H.; Boland, Patrick J.; Healey, John H.; Hornicek, Francis J.; Schwab, Joseph H.

2017-01-01

Background context Patient reported outcomes are becoming increasingly important when investigating results of patient and disease management. In sacral tumor patients symptoms can vary substantially, therefore no single questionnaire can adequately account for the full spectrum of symptoms and disability. Purpose The purpose of this study is to analyze redundancy within the current sacral tumor survey and make a recommendation for an updated version based on the results and patient and expert opinions. Study design/setting A survey study from a tertiary care orthopaedic oncology referral center was used for this study. Patient sample The patient sample included 70 patients with sacral tumors (78% chordoma). Outcome measures The following ten questionnaires included in the current sacral tumor survey were evaluated: the Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Global Item short form, PROMIS Pain Intensity short form, PROMIS Pain Interference short form, PROMIS Neuro-QOL v1.0 Lower Extremity Function short form, PROMIS v1.0 Anxiety short form, the PROMIS v1.0 Depression short form, the International Continence Society (ICS) Male short form, the Modified Obstruction-Defecation Syndrome (MODS) questionnaire, the PROMIS Sexual Function Profile v1.0, and The Stoma Quality Of Life tool. Methods We performed an exploratory factor analysis to calculate possible underlying latent traits. Spearman rank correlation coefficients were used to measure to what extent the questionnaires converged. We hypothesized the existence of six domains based on current literature: mental health, physical health, pain, gastrointestinal symptoms, sexual function, and urinary incontinence. To assess content validity, we surveyed 32 patients, nine orthopaedic oncologists, one medical oncologist, one radiation oncologist, and an orthopaedic oncology nurse practitioner with experience in treating sacral tumor patients on the relevance of the domains. Results Reliability as measured by Cronbach alpha ranged from 0.65 to 0.96. Coverage measured by floor and ceiling effects ranged from 0 to 52% and from 0 to 30%, respectively. Explanatory factor analysis identified three traits to which the questionnaires that were expected to measure a similar construct correlated the most; mental health, physical function, and pain. Content validity index demonstrated low disagreement among patients (range: 0.10 to 0.18) and high agreement among physicians (range: 0.91 to 1.0) on the relevance of the proposed domains. Social health was identified by 50% of the commenting patients as an important yet missing domain. Conclusions The current sacral tumor survey is incomplete, time consuming, and not all surveys are appropriate for the sacral tumor population. Our recommended survey contains less than half the questions and includes the newly recognized domain social health. PMID:27856381

Reliability and Responsiveness of NutriQoL® Questionnaire.

PubMed

Cuerda, Maria Cristina; Apezetxea, Antonio; Carrillo, Lourdes; Casanueva, Felipe; Cuesta, Federico; Irles, Jose Antonio; Virgili, Maria Nuria; Layola, Miquel; Lizán, Luis

2016-10-01

NutriQoL ® (Nestlé Health Science, Vevay, Switzerland) is a questionnaire developed to assess the health-related quality-of-life (HRQoL) of patients with home enteral nutrition (HEN) irrespective of their underlying condition and route of administration. The aim of this work is assessing the questionnaire's reliability and responsiveness to change. Two cohorts of patients with HEN and their primary caregivers were enrolled to assess reliability and responsiveness, respectively. All participants had to be 18 years of age or older, without mental deterioration (≤3 or 4 errors in the Pfeiffer's test) and with sufficient functional status (>40 points on Karnovsky's performance status scale). When the patients' ability to respond to the questionnaire was impaired due to underlying disease, their caregivers answered on their behalf. NutriQoL was administered in two and three visits to reliability and responsiveness cohorts, respectively. Test-retest reliability and internal consistency were assessed by the intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) and the Cronbach's α, respectively. Responsiveness was evaluated by standardized effect size and standardized response mean between basal visit and third visit. Finally, the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) was estimated. A total of 54 and 86 participants were recruited to the reliability and responsiveness cohort, respectively. Thirty-five caregivers were selected to assess the inter-observer reliability. ICC values confirmed the good reproducibility level (ICC >0.75) of the questionnaire in both "physical functioning and activities of daily living" and "social life" domains and total score. The assessment of internal consistency in both domains of the questionnaire showed good internal consistency in visit 2. ICC showed the excellent agreement level between caregiver and patient in the global NutriQoL score. Finally, patients classified as having a minimal change in their health reported a mean (standard deviation) MCID in NutriQoL score of 0.63 (11.51). NutriQoL is a reliable and unique instrument to measure the HRQoL in HEN patients. NutriQoL detects changes in the health status of the patient. Nevertheless, further research is needed to determine the full extent of the questionnaire responsiveness.

Developing and validating a scale to measure Food and Nutrition Literacy (FNLIT) in elementary school children in Iran.

PubMed

Doustmohammadian, Aazam; Omidvar, Nasrin; Keshavarz-Mohammadi, Nastaran; Abdollahi, Morteza; Amini, Maryam; Eini-Zinab, Hassan

2017-01-01

Food and nutrition literacy is an emerging term which is increasingly used in policy and research. Though research in this area is growing, progression is limited by the lack of an accepted method to measure food and nutrition literacy. The aim of this study is to develop a valid and reliable questionnaire to assess food and nutrition literacy in elementary school children in the city of Tehran. The study was conducted in three phases. To develop Food and Nutrition Literacy (FNLIT) questionnaire, a comprehensive literature review and a qualitative study were initially performed to identify food and nutrition literacy dimensions and its components. Content and face validity of the questionnaire were evaluated by an expert panel as well as students. In the second phase, construct validity of the scale was evaluated using Explanatory Factor Analyses (EFA) and Confirmatory Factor Analyses (CFA). In the last phase (confirmatory phase), the final version of the questionnaire was evaluated on 400 students. Findings show Content Validity Ratio (CVR) and Content Validity Index (CVI) of the 62-item questionnaire at acceptable levels of 0.87 and 0.92, respectively. EFA suggested a six-factor construct, namely, understanding food and nutrition information, knowledge, functional, interactive, food choice, and critical. The results of CFA indicated acceptable fit indices for the proposed models. All subscales demonstrated satisfactory internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha≥0.70), except for critical skill subscale (0.48). The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC = 0.90, CI: 0.83-0.94) indicated that Food and Nutrition Literacy (FNLIT) scale had satisfactory stability. Each phase of development progressively improved the questionnaire, which resulted in a 46-item (42 likert-type items and 4 true-false items) Food and Nutrition Literacy (FNLIT) scale. The questionnaire measured two domains with 6 subscales, including: 1) cognitive domain: understanding and knowledge; 2) skill domain: functional, food choice, interactive, and critical skills. The developed food and nutrition literacy scale is a valid and reliable instrument to measure food and nutrition literacy in children. This measure lays a solid empirical and theoretical foundation for future research and tailored interventions to promote food and nutrition literacy in this age group.

Validation of a Self-Report Questionnaire Assessing the Bodily and Physiological Sensations of Orgasm.

PubMed

Dubray, Samantha; Gérard, Marina; Beaulieu-Prévost, Dominic; Courtois, Frédérique

2017-02-01

Despite a plethora of research on sexual functioning during the past decades, the field is still lacking standardized measurements specifically characterizing orgasm. Although several validated tools are available to assess sexual function in healthy and clinical populations, items on orgasm are limited to frequency or dichotomous responses. A neurophysiologic model of orgasm developed from previous research in able-bodied and spinally injured populations offers a promising framework for the construction of a new questionnaire. To develop and validate a brief self-report measurement of orgasm by the assessment of bodily and physiologic sensations perceived during climax by able-bodied individuals. Although the currently available tool focuses on the phenomenological sensations associated with climax, the goal of this questionnaire was to capture the more specific genital and extragenital sensations associated with orgasm. The current Bodily Sensations of Orgasm questionnaire and the Orgasm Rating Scale. Data from previous research conducted on individuals with spinal cord injury and the available empirical literature provided a pool of 45 items organized into four categories, which were reviewed by an expert panel. Upon review, a 28-item questionnaire was created and administered to a community sample of 227 participants, including men and women, 18 to 73 years old. Exploratory factor analyses supported the four-factor model, in which orgasm is comprised of extragenital sensations, genital sensations and spasms, nociceptive sensations, and sweating responses. Overall, a high degree of internal consistency was found for the final 22-item questionnaire (Cronbach α = 0.87), with individual reliability coefficients showing moderate to high internal consistency (r = 0.65-0.79) for each dimension. Overall temporal stability of the measurement was acceptable (r = 0.74). Using the Orgasm Rating Scale, satisfying convergent validity was confirmed, thereby indicating that the two measurements are complementary. The Bodily Sensations of Orgasm questionnaire allows for a brief evaluation of the physical and physiologic sensations associated with orgasm. Findings also suggest perceptual differences between men and women with regard to climax, with women reporting a larger repertoire of climactic sensations during orgasm. Copyright © 2016 International Society for Sexual Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The Nature of Subjective Cognitive Complaints of Older Adults

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Newson, Rachel S.; Kemps, Eva B.

2006-01-01

The current study investigated the nature of subjective cognitive complaints of older adults in relation to a broad array of individual cognitive functions known to decline with age. A 60-item questionnaire was developed to examine: (1) whether older adults experience problems with these cognitive functions (problems with cognition); (2) the…

Testing for Differential Item Functioning with Measures of Partial Association

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Woods, Carol M.

2009-01-01

Differential item functioning (DIF) occurs when an item on a test or questionnaire has different measurement properties for one group of people versus another, irrespective of mean differences on the construct. There are many methods available for DIF assessment. The present article is focused on indices of partial association. A family of average…

Attitudes toward Women as a Function of Subject's Experience with Family Violence.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stahly, Geraldine Butts

Evidence is accumulating that experiences of children within the violent family are fundamental causes of the continuing problem of family and societal violence. To examine attitudes and values as a function of experience with family violence, 114 male undergraduate students completed a questionnaire assessing general demographics, and several…

Sensory Sensitivities and Performance on Sensory Perceptual Tasks in High-Functioning Individuals with Autism

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Minshew, Nancy J.; Hobson, Jessica A.

2008-01-01

Most reports of sensory symptoms in autism are second hand or observational, and there is little evidence of a neurological basis. Sixty individuals with high-functioning autism and 61 matched typical participants were administered a sensory questionnaire and neuropsychological tests of elementary and higher cortical sensory perception. Thirty-two…

Association of Rigid-Compulsive Behavior with Functional Constipation in Autism Spectrum Disorder

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Marler, Sarah; Ferguson, Bradley J.; Lee, Evon Batey; Peters, Brittany; Williams, Kent C.; McDonnell, Erin; Macklin, Eric A.; Levitt, Pat; Margolis, Kara Gross; Beversdorf, David Q.; Veenstra-VanderWeele, Jeremy

2017-01-01

Based upon checklist data from the Autism Speaks Autism Treatment Network, we hypothesized that functional constipation (FC) would be associated with rigid-compulsive behavior in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We used the Questionnaire on Pediatric Gastrointestinal Symptoms-Rome III to assess FC symptoms in 108 children with ASD. As…

Principals' Perceptions of the Importance of Technology in Schools

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Waxman, Hersh C.; Boriack, Anna Witt; Lee, Yuan-Hsuan; MacNeil, Angus

2013-01-01

A sample of 311 principals from a large metropolitan area in the southwest region of the U. S. responded to a questionnaire that addressed public school principals' perceptions related to the major functions of technology in their schools. Principals reported that the major functions of technology were: (a) communication, (b) instruction, (c) data…

An Analysis of the Relationship Between Organizational Climate and the Performance of Counselor Functions.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cottingham, Harold F.; And Others

The study was designed to determine if a significant relationship existed between the organizational climate of the high school and the functions counselors performed in nine selected high schools in Pinellas County, Florida. Two instruments were used: (1) The Organizational Climate Description Questionnaire (OCDQ) dealing with eight…

A Survey of Teachers' Perceptions of the Function and Purpose of Student Support Teams

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lee-Tarver, Aleada

2006-01-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate teacher training, teacher participation and teacher understanding of the relationship between student support team functions and special education services. One hundred and twenty-three regular education teachers responded to a brief questionnaire concerning student support team activities. Teachers…

Parenting and Adolescent Adjustment: The Role of Parental Reflective Function

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Benbassat, Naomi; Priel, Beatriz

2012-01-01

Reflective function (RF) is the capacity to reflect on one's own mental experiences and those of others. This study examined the relationship between parental RF and adolescent adjustment. One hundred and five adolescents, aged 14-18, and their mothers and fathers were interviewed and completed questionnaires during home visits. We measured…

[Effect of monotherapy with nebivolol, bisoprolol, carvedilol on the state of vegetative nervous system and sexual function in men with arterial hypertension].

PubMed

Mustafaev, I I; Nurmamedova, G S

2013-01-01

Aim of the study was to assess effect of monotherapy with nebivolol, bisoprolol, carvedilol for 2 months on sexual function in men with arterial hypertension (AH). Men with 1-2 degree of AH (n=75, age 35-55 years, mean age 48+/-3,5 years) received monotherapy with these drugs for 2 months. Registration of parameters of heart rate variability (HRV), Dopplerography of penile arteries, and the Vasilchenko questionnaire were implemented at the end of 4 months of placebo period and after 2 months of therapy with a study drug. Therapy with bisoprolol, carvedilol, and nebivolol was associated with significant elevation of parasympathetic part of vegetative nervous system tone, improvement of systolic blood flow in cavernous and dorsal arteries. Analysis of data obtained by Vasilchenko questionnaire demonstrated improvement of psychic and erectile components of sexual function. Thus bisoprolol, carvedilol, and nebivolol did not worsen sexual function of men with AH, improved spectral parameters of HRV and vascular blood flow in arteries of cavernous bodies.

IGF-1 levels are significantly correlated with patient-reported measures of sexual function.

PubMed

Pastuszak, A W; Liu, J S; Vij, A; Mohamed, O; Sathyamoorthy, K; Lipshultz, L I; Khera, M

2011-01-01

Growth hormone (GH) supplementation may help to preserve erectile function. We assessed whether serum insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels, a surrogate for GH levels, correlate with sexual function scores in 65 men who completed the Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) and Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite (EPIC) questionnaires, and had serum IGF-1 and testosterone levels determined. Median±s.d. IGF-1 level, SHIM and EPIC scores were 235.0±86.4, 19.5±8.7 and 56.4±28.3 mg ml(-1), respectively. IGF-1 levels and total SHIM score correlate significantly (r=0.31, P=0.02), as do IGF-1 levels and all individual SHIM question scores, and IGF-1 levels and the sexual domain of the EPIC questionnaire (r=0.30, P=0.02). No correlation was observed between IGF-1 levels and Gleason score, IGF-1 and testosterone level or SHIM score and testosterone level. These data support a potential role for the GH axis in erectile function.

A controlled clinical trial on the effects of exercise on neuropsychiatric disorders and instrumental activities in women with Alzheimer's disease.

PubMed

Nascimento, Carla M C; Teixeira, Camila V L; Gobbi, Lilian T B; Gobbi, Sebastião; Stella, Florindo

2012-06-01

To analyze the influence of a six-month exercise program on neuropsychiatric disorders and on the performance of instrumental activities in elderly patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). The study included 20 patients with AD in the mild to moderate stages of the Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) divided into two groups: the experimental group, composed of 10 women who participated in the six-month exercise program, and the control group, composed of the 10 remaining AD patients who did not take part in an exercise program during the same period. All participants were evaluated using the Mini-Mental State Exam for global cognitive function, the Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire for neuropsychiatric disorders, and the Pfeffer Functional Activities Questionnaire for the degree of functional impairment. The control group showed functional and neuropsychiatric deterioration in the comparisons between pre- and post-intervention times and between groups. The experimental group showed a propensity for less deterioration in neuropsychiatric disorders and performance of instrumental activities compared to the sedentary group.

The reliability and concurrent validity of the Scoliosis Research Society-22r patient questionnaire compared with the Child Health Questionnaire-CF87 patient questionnaire for adolescent spinal deformity.

PubMed

Glattes, R Christopher; Burton, Douglas C; Lai, Sue Min; Frasier, Elizabeth; Asher, Marc A

2007-07-15

This is a clinic-based cross-sectional study involving 2 health-related quality-of-life (HRQL) questionnaires. To compare the score distribution and reliability of the spinal deformity specific Scoliosis Research Society-22r (SRS-22r) questionnaire and the established generic Child Health Questionnaire-CF87 (CHQ-CF87), and to assess the concurrent validity of the SRS-22r using the CHQ-CF87 in an adolescent spine deformity population. Different questionnaires are commonly thought to be necessary to assess the HRQL of adolescent and adult populations. But since spinal deformities usually begin in the second decade of life, longitudinal follow-up with the same HRQL is desirable. The SRS-22r HRQL has recently been validated for score distribution and internal consistency in a spinal deformity population ranging in age from 7 to 78 years. The SRS-22r and CHQ-CF87 HRQLs were completed by 70 orthopedic spinal deformity outpatients 8 to 18 years of age, of whom 54 returned mailed retest questionnaires at an average of 24 days later. The ceiling effect averaged 27% for the SRS-22r and 36% for the CHQ-CF87. Respective values for internal consistency (Cronbach alpha) were 0.81 and 0.82, and for test-retest reproducibility the intraclass correlations (ICC) were 0.73 and 0.61. Concurrent validity was r > or = 0.68 or more for relevant function, pain, and mental health domains. The SRS Self-Image and particularly the Satisfaction/Dissatisfaction with Management domains did not correlate well with any CHQ-CF87 domains (r = 0.50 and 0.30, respectively). In a spinal deformity population 8 to 18 years of age, the score distribution and reliability, internal consistency, and reproducibility of the SRS-22r were at least as good as the CHQ-CF87. The SRS-22r function, pain, and mental health domains were concurrently valid in comparison to relevant CHQ-CF87 domains, but the SRS-22r self-image and satisfaction/dissatisfaction domains were not, thereby providing health-related quality-of-life information not provided for by the CHQ-CF87.

Assessing women's sexuality after cancer therapy: checking assumptions with the focus group technique.

PubMed

Bruner, D W; Boyd, C P

1999-12-01

Cancer and cancer therapies impair sexual health in a multitude of ways. The promotion of sexual health is therefore vital for preserving quality of life and is an integral part of total or holistic cancer management. Nursing, to provide holistic care, requires research that is meaningful to patients as well as the profession to develop educational and interventional studies to promote sexual health and coping. To obtain meaningful research data instruments that are reliable, valid, and pertinent to patients' needs are required. Several sexual functioning instruments were reviewed for this study and found to be lacking in either a conceptual foundation or psychometric validation. Without a defined conceptual framework, authors of the instruments must have made certain assumptions regarding what women undergoing cancer therapy experience and what they perceive as important. To check these assumptions before assessing women's sexuality after cancer therapies in a larger study, a pilot study was designed to compare what women experience and perceive as important regarding their sexuality with what is assessed in several currently available research instruments, using the focus group technique. Based on the focus group findings, current sexual functioning questionnaires may be lacking in pertinent areas of concern for women treated for breast or gynecologic malignancies. Better conceptual foundations may help future questionnaire design. Self-regulation theory may provide an acceptable conceptual framework from which to develop a sexual functioning questionnaire.

Reduced emotional empathy in adults with subclinical ADHD: evidence from the empathy and systemizing quotient.

PubMed

Groen, Y; den Heijer, A E; Fuermaier, A B M; Althaus, M; Tucha, O

2018-06-01

Studies in children with ADHD suggest impairments in social cognitive functions, whereas studies in adults with ADHD are scarce and inconclusive. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between ADHD traits and self-reported social cognitive style in a sample of adults from the general population. For this purpose, a community sample of 685 adults filled out online self-report questionnaires about ADHD symptoms (ADHD Rating Scale, ARS), social cognitive functioning and friendships. The Empathy Quotient (EQ) with the subscales Cognitive Empathy (CE), Emotional Empathy (EE) and Social Skills (SS), and the Systemizing Quotient (SQ) were included for measuring social cognitive style and the Friendship Questionnaire (FQ) for the quality of friendships. Participants who met the DSM-5 criteria on the ARS ('subclinical ADHD'; n = 56) were compared regarding their social cognitive functioning scores with a control group (n = 56) that was matched for age, sex and student status. With small effect sizes, the subclinical ADHD group showed reduced EE scores on the EQ and a more male social cognitive profile. This result was not influenced by sex or ADHD subtype. This study points to a relationship between traits of ADHD and the emotional aspect of empathy, whereas more complex aspects of empathy were unrelated. These findings should be corroborated in clinical patients with ADHD, employing neuropsychological tests rather than self-report questionnaires.

Reliability and validity of the Turkish version of ABILHAND-Kids' questionnaire in a group of patients with neuromuscular disorders.

PubMed

Öksüz, Çigdem; Alemdaroglu, Ipek; Kilinç, Muhammed; Abaoğlu, Hatice; Demirci, Cevher; Karahan, Sevilay; Yilmaz, Oznur; Yildirim, Sibel Aksu

2017-10-01

This study was performed to examine the reliability and validity of the Turkish version of ABILHAND-Kids questionnaire which assesses manual functions of children with neuromuscular diseases (NMDs). A cross sectional survey study design and Rasch analysis were used to assess the reliability and validity of the Turkish version of scale. Ninety-three children with different neuromuscular disorders and their parents were included in the study. The scale was applied to the parents with face-to-face interview twice; on their first visit and after an interval of 15 days. The test-retest reliability was assessed with intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), and internal consistency of the multi-item subscales by calculating Cronbach alpha values. Brooke Upper Extremity Functional Classification (BUEFC) and Wee-Functional Independency Measurement (Wee-FIM) were correlated to determine the construct validity. The ICC value for the test/retest reliability was 0.94. The internal consistency was 0.81. Floor (1.1%) and ceiling (11.8%) effects were not significant. There were moderate correlations between the Turkish version of ABILHAND-Kids and Wee-FIM (0.67) and BUEFC (-0.37). Rasch analysis indicated good item fit, unidimensionality, and model fit. The Turkish version of ABILHAND-Kids questionnaire was found to be a reliable and valid scale for the assessment of the manual ability of children with NMDs.

[Impact of an Aspherical Aberration Correcting Monofocal Intraocular Lens on Patient Satisfaction for Daily Life Activities: The Heidelberg Daily Task Evaluation (DATE) Questionnaire].

PubMed

Kretz, F T A; Son, H; Liebing, S; Tandogan, T; Auffarth, G U

2015-08-01

A clinical evaluation of the functional results and its impact on daily activities of an aspherical, aberration correcting intraocular lens (IOL) was undertaken. Twenty-one patients aged from 50 to 83 years underwent cataract surgery with implantation of the aspheric IOL (Tecnis ZCB00, Abbott Medical Optics). They were evaluated 2 to 4 months after surgery for their subjective satisfaction of vision quality and its impact on performance of daily activities as well as functional results and refractive outcome. Patients were asked to fill out a questionnaire - the Heidelberg DATE (DAily Tasks Evaluation) questionnaire. Significant changes from pre- to postoperative results were found in refraction (p ≤ 0.03), with a mean prediction error of + 0.21 ± 0.43 D. UDVA and CDVA improved significantly (p < 0.01), with a postoperative CDVA of 0.0 logMAR or better in 97.1 % of eyes. All patients would recommend the procedure to a relative or a friend and 93.8 % of patients reported to be satisfied with the outcome. The implantation of the aspheric IOL Tecnis ZCB00 after cataract surgery allows the restoration of visual function, providing an optimised optical quality and a high level of patient satisfaction. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Somatization is associated with worse outcome in a chiropractic patient population with neck pain and low back pain.

PubMed

Ailliet, L; Rubinstein, S M; Knol, D; van Tulder, M W; de Vet, H C W

2016-02-01

To determine if psychosocial factors are associated with outcome in patients with neck pain or low back pain. In a prospective, multi-center chiropractic practice-based cohort study in Belgium and The Netherlands, 917 patients, of which 326 with neck pain and 591 with low back pain, completed self-administered questionnaires at baseline, following the second visit, and at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months. Psychosocial factors assessed at baseline were: distress, depression, anxiety and somatization via the Four Dimensional Symptom Questionnaire, patient's beliefs regarding the effect of physical activity and work on their complaint via the Fear Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire, and social support via the Feij social support scale. Primary outcome measures were perceived recovery, pain intensity, and functional status which was measured with the Neck Disability Index and Oswestry Disability Index. A univariable regression analysis to estimate the relation between each psychological variable and outcome was followed by a multivariable multilevel regression analysis. There were no differences in baseline patient characteristics between the patient population from Belgium and the Netherlands. Somatization scores are consistently associated with perceived recovery, functional status and pain for both neck pain and low-back pain. Depression was associated with poorer functioning in patients with LBP. There was a small association between fear and function and pain for patients with neck pain or low-back pain. Somatization was the only variable consistently found to be associated with diminished perceived recovery, higher degree of neck or low back disability, and increased neck or low back pain. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Validation of the Cannabis Expectancy Questionnaire (CEQ) in adult cannabis users in treatment.

PubMed

Connor, Jason P; Gullo, Matthew J; Feeney, Gerald F X; Young, Ross McD

2011-06-01

Outcome expectancies are a key cognitive construct in the etiology, assessment and treatment of Substance Use Disorders. There is a research and clinical need for a cannabis expectancy measure validated in a clinical sample of cannabis users. The Cannabis Expectancy Questionnaire (CEQ) was subjected to exploratory (n=501, mean age 27.45, 78% male) and confirmatory (n=505, mean age 27.69, 78% male) factor analysis in two separate samples of cannabis users attending an outpatient cannabis treatment program. Weekly cannabis consumption was clinically assessed and patients completed the Severity of Dependence Scale-Cannabis (SDS-C) and the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28). Two factors representing Negative Cannabis Expectancies and Positive Cannabis Expectancies were identified. These provided a robust statistical and conceptual fit for the data. Internal reliabilities were high. Negative expectancies were associated with greater dependence severity (as measured by the SDS) and positive expectancies with higher consumption. The interaction of positive and negative expectancies was consistently significantly associated with self-reported functioning across all four GHQ-28 scales (Somatic Concerns, Anxiety, Social Dysfunction and Depression). Specifically, within the context of high positive cannabis expectancy, higher negative expectancy was predictive of more impaired functioning. By contrast, within the context of low positive cannabis expectancy, higher negative expectancy was predictive of better functioning. The CEQ is the first cannabis expectancy measure to be validated in a sample of cannabis users in treatment. Negative and positive cannabis expectancy domains were uniquely associated with consumption, dependence severity and self-reported mental health functioning. Crown Copyright © 2010. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

THE PRENATAL PARENTAL REFLECTIVE FUNCTIONING QUESTIONNAIRE: EXPLORING FACTOR STRUCTURE AND CONSTRUCT VALIDITY OF A NEW MEASURE IN THE FINN BRAIN BIRTH COHORT PILOT STUDY.

PubMed

Pajulo, Marjukka; Tolvanen, Mimmi; Karlsson, Linnea; Halme-Chowdhury, Elina; Öst, Camilla; Luyten, Patrick; Mayes, Linda; Karlsson, Hasse

2015-01-01

Parental reflective functioning (PRF) is the capacity to focus on experience and feelings in oneself and in the child. Individual differences in PRF reportedly affect child attachment and socioemotional development. In this study, we report work on developing a questionnaire to assess PRF during pregnancy (Prenatal Parental Reflective Functioning Questionnaire; P-PRFQ). The factor structure of the 33-item version of the P-PRFQ was explored using pilot study data from the Finn Brain Birth Cohort Study (n = 124 mothers, n = 82 fathers). Construct validity was assessed against the Pregnancy Interview (PI; A. Slade, L. Grunebaum, L. Huganir, & M. Reeves, 1987, 2002, 2011) in a subsample of 29 mothers from the same pilot sample. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis resulted in a 14-item P-PRFQ, with three factors which seem to capture relevant aspects of prenatal parental mentalization-F1: "Opacity of mental states," F2: "Reflecting on the fetus-child," and F3: "The dynamic nature of the mental states." Functioning of the factor structure was further tested in the large cohort with 600 mothers and 600 fathers. Correlations with the PI result were high, both regarding total and factor scores of the P-PRFQ. Cost-effective tools to assess key areas of early parenting are needed for both research and clinical purposes. The 14-item P-PRFQ seems to be an applicable and promising new tool for assessing very early parental mentalizing capacity. © 2015 Michigan Association for Infant Mental Health.

Health and nursing problems of elderly patients related to bio-psycho-social need deficiencies and functional assessment.

PubMed

Muszalik, Marta; Dijkstra, Ate; Kędziora-Kornatowska, Kornelia; Zielińska-Więczkowska, Halina

2012-01-01

Elderly population is characterized by larger need for social welfare and medical treatment than other age groups. Along with aging, there is a number of emerging health, nursing, caring, psychological and social problems. Complexity of these problems results from overlapping and advancing involutional changes, multi-illness, decreased functional efficiency and other factors. The aim of the study was the assessment of health problems in geriatric patients as well as bio-psycho-social need deficiencies in a view of selected parameters of functional efficiency. The research group consisted of the Chair and Clinic of Geriatrics, 186 women and 114 men, 300 persons in total. The research was carried out using a diagnostic poll method with the application of the Activities of Daily Living (ADL) questionnaire of assessment of daily efficiency on the basis of the Katz Scale; the Care Dependency Scale (CDS) questionnaire used to measure the level of the care dependency and human needs, Norton's bed sores risk assessment scale, the Nursing Care Category (NCC) questionnaire applied to assess the need for nursing care. In most patients the results unveiled manifestations of three or more illnesses. Functional efficiency was at low and average level. Half of the subjects were endangered by risk of bed sores as well as showed high need fulfillment deficiency. The highest level of the deficiency was observed in patients in the eldest age group as well as suffering from multi-illness. Material status, education, place of residence or gender showed no significant influence on the level of need fulfillment. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Development and validation of the Self-Stigma Questionnaire (SSQ) for people with schizophrenia and its relation to social functioning.

PubMed

Ochoa, Susana; Martínez-Zambrano, Francisco; Garcia-Franco, Mar; Vilamala, Sonia; Ribas, Maria; Arenas, Oti; Garcia-Morales, Esther; Álvarez, Irene; Escartin, Gemma; Villellas, Raul; Escandell, Maria Jose; Martínez-Raves, Mónica; López-Arias, Elisabeth; Cunyat, Christian; Haro, Josep Maria

2015-10-01

Self-stigma specifically in people with schizophrenia has been little studied. The aims of the present study were to validate a new instrument for the assessment of self-stigma (SSQ) and to assess the relationship between self-stigma and social functioning in people with schizophrenia. A sample of 76 people with schizophrenia was assessed at two moments in time with the SSQ, the PDD (stigma), two scales of social functioning (LSP, SFS), and a scale of general functioning (GAF). The results indicated that SSQ presented good psychometric properties, with Cronbach's alpha ranging between 0.75 and 0.901. The stability of the instrument was between 0.836 and 0.402. Three factors were found in the factor analysis (social discrimination, perceived capabilities, concealment of the disease), explaining 62.66% of the total variance. A relationship was found between self-stigma and social functioning in people with schizophrenia, especially in relation to social contact. In conclusion, the SSQ seems to be a valid and reliable questionnaire for the assessment of self-stigma in people with schizophrenia, and interventions should be designed to cope with self-stigma in order to improve the social functioning of people who suffer schizophrenia. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The effects of lifelong cognitive lifestyle on executive function in older people with Parkinson's disease.

PubMed

Hindle, John V; Martin-Forbes, Pamela A; Martyr, Anthony; Bastable, Alexandra J M; Pye, Kirstie L; Mueller Gathercole, Virginia C; Thomas, Enlli M; Clare, Linda

2017-12-01

Active lifelong cognitive lifestyles increase cognitive reserve and have beneficial effects on global cognition, cognitive decline and dementia risk in Parkinson's disease (PD). Executive function is particularly impaired even in early PD, and this impacts on quality of life. The effects of lifelong cognitive lifestyle on executive function in PD have not been studied previously. This study examined the association between lifelong cognitive lifestyle, as a proxy measure of cognitive reserve, and executive function in people with PD. Sixty-nine people diagnosed with early PD without dementia were recruited as part of the Bilingualism as a protective factor in Age-related Neurodegenerative Conditions study. Participants completed a battery of tests of executive function. The Lifetime of Experiences Questionnaire was completed as a comprehensive assessment of lifelong cognitive lifestyle. Non-parametric correlations compared clinical measures with executive function scores. Cross-sectional analyses of covariance were performed comparing the performance of low and high cognitive reserve groups on executive function tests. Correlational analyses showed that better executive function scores were associated with younger age, higher levodopa dose and higher Lifetime of Experiences Questionnaire scores. Higher cognitive reserve was associated with better motor function, but high and low cognitive reserve groups did not differ in executive function. Cognitive reserve, although associated with global cognition, does not appear to be associated with executive function. This differential effect may reflect the specific cognitive profile of PD. The long-term effects of cognitive reserve on executive function in PD require further exploration. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

An exploration of the relationship between fatigue and physical functioning in patients with end stage renal disease receiving haemodialysis.

PubMed

O'Sullivan, Dawn; McCarthy, Geraldine

2007-11-01

To measure fatigue and physical functioning in patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD) receiving haemodialysis and to investigate the relationships between fatigue and physical functioning. Fatigue and reduced physical functioning are among the most bothersome symptoms experienced by individuals receiving haemodialysis for ESRD. Research has shown that increasing activity levels has resulted in decreased fatigue levels and improved physical functioning in individuals with cancer. Establishing whether or not a relationship exists between both concepts in haemodialysis patients is a preliminary step in identifying potential fatigue reducing strategies necessary for improved wellbeing. A quantitative exploratory correlational design was used with 46 individuals completing the Multi-dimensional Fatigue Inventory, the Medical Outcomes Study Short-Form 36-item questionnaire and a Demographic Questionnaire. Results indicated fatigue was prevalent with highest scores achieved for physical fatigue; reduced activity and general fatigue. Substantial limitations in physical functioning were found. A significant moderate negative relationship between general fatigue and physical functioning indicated that, as physical functioning levels increased, fatigue levels decreased. A significant difference was also found between general fatigue scores for males and females. Significant relationships were found between overall physical functioning, older age and employment status. The research indicates the prevalence of fatigue and limitations in physical functioning in individuals with ESRD. However, as physical functioning increased fatigue decreased; a finding relevant to clinical nursing. Understanding the levels of fatigue and the value of exercise is of relevance to clinical practice thus assessment of fatigue and physical functioning ability in the clinical setting is necessary.

Validation of Online Versions of Tinnitus Questionnaires Translated into Swedish.

PubMed

Müller, Karolina; Edvall, Niklas K; Idrizbegovic, Esma; Huhn, Robert; Cima, Rilana; Persson, Viktor; Leineweber, Constanze; Westerlund, Hugo; Langguth, Berthold; Schlee, Winfried; Canlon, Barbara; Cederroth, Christopher R

2016-01-01

Background: Due to the lack of objective measures for assessing tinnitus, its clinical evaluation largely relies on the use of questionnaires and psychoacoustic tests. A global assessment of tinnitus burden would largely benefit from holistic approaches that not only incorporate measures of tinnitus but also take into account associated fears, emotional aspects (stress, anxiety, and depression), and quality of life. In Sweden, only a few instruments are available for assessing tinnitus, and the existing tools lack validation. Therefore, we translated a set of questionnaires into Swedish and evaluated their reliability and validity in a group of tinnitus subjects. Methods: We translated the English versions of the Tinnitus Functional Index (TFI), the Fear of Tinnitus Questionnaire (FTQ), the Tinnitus Catastrophizing Scale (TCS), the Perceived Stress Questionnaire (PSQ-30), and the Tinnitus Sample Case History Questionnaire (TSCHQ) into Swedish. These translations were delivered via the internet with the already existing Swedish versions of the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), the Hyperacusis Questionnaire (HQ), and the World Health Organization Quality of Life questionnaire (WHOQoL-BREF). Psychometric properties were evaluated by means of internal consistency [Cronbach's alpha (α)] and test-retest reliability across a 9-week interval [Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC), Cohen's kappa] in order to establish construct as well as clinical validity using a sample of 260 subjects from a population-based cohort. Results: Internal consistency was acceptable for all questionnaires (α > 0.7) with the exception of the "social relationships" subscale of the WHOQoL-BREF. Test-retest reliability was generally acceptable (ICC > 0.70, Cohens kappa > 0.60) for the tinnitus-related questionnaires, except for the TFI "sense of control" subscale and 15 items of the TSCHQ. Spearmen rank correlations showed that almost all questionnaires on tinnitus are significantly related, indicating that these questionnaires measure different aspects of the same construct. The data supported good clinical validity of the tinnitus-related questionnaires. Conclusion: Our results suggest that most Swedish adaptations of the questionnaires are suitable for clinical and research settings and should facilitate the assessment of treatment outcomes using a more holistic approach by including measures of tinnitus fears, emotional burden, and quality of life.

Validation of Online Versions of Tinnitus Questionnaires Translated into Swedish

PubMed Central

Müller, Karolina; Edvall, Niklas K.; Idrizbegovic, Esma; Huhn, Robert; Cima, Rilana; Persson, Viktor; Leineweber, Constanze; Westerlund, Hugo; Langguth, Berthold; Schlee, Winfried; Canlon, Barbara; Cederroth, Christopher R.

2016-01-01

Background: Due to the lack of objective measures for assessing tinnitus, its clinical evaluation largely relies on the use of questionnaires and psychoacoustic tests. A global assessment of tinnitus burden would largely benefit from holistic approaches that not only incorporate measures of tinnitus but also take into account associated fears, emotional aspects (stress, anxiety, and depression), and quality of life. In Sweden, only a few instruments are available for assessing tinnitus, and the existing tools lack validation. Therefore, we translated a set of questionnaires into Swedish and evaluated their reliability and validity in a group of tinnitus subjects. Methods: We translated the English versions of the Tinnitus Functional Index (TFI), the Fear of Tinnitus Questionnaire (FTQ), the Tinnitus Catastrophizing Scale (TCS), the Perceived Stress Questionnaire (PSQ-30), and the Tinnitus Sample Case History Questionnaire (TSCHQ) into Swedish. These translations were delivered via the internet with the already existing Swedish versions of the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), the Hyperacusis Questionnaire (HQ), and the World Health Organization Quality of Life questionnaire (WHOQoL-BREF). Psychometric properties were evaluated by means of internal consistency [Cronbach's alpha (α)] and test–retest reliability across a 9-week interval [Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC), Cohen's kappa] in order to establish construct as well as clinical validity using a sample of 260 subjects from a population-based cohort. Results: Internal consistency was acceptable for all questionnaires (α > 0.7) with the exception of the “social relationships” subscale of the WHOQoL-BREF. Test–retest reliability was generally acceptable (ICC > 0.70, Cohens kappa > 0.60) for the tinnitus-related questionnaires, except for the TFI “sense of control” subscale and 15 items of the TSCHQ. Spearmen rank correlations showed that almost all questionnaires on tinnitus are significantly related, indicating that these questionnaires measure different aspects of the same construct. The data supported good clinical validity of the tinnitus-related questionnaires. Conclusion: Our results suggest that most Swedish adaptations of the questionnaires are suitable for clinical and research settings and should facilitate the assessment of treatment outcomes using a more holistic approach by including measures of tinnitus fears, emotional burden, and quality of life. PMID:27920720

Measuring the quality of life of people at the end of life: The McGill Quality of Life Questionnaire-Revised.

PubMed

Cohen, S Robin; Sawatzky, Richard; Russell, Lara B; Shahidi, Javad; Heyland, Daren K; Gadermann, Anne M

2017-02-01

The McGill Quality of Life Questionnaire has been widely used with people with life-threatening illnesses without modification since its publication in 1996. With use, areas for improvement have emerged; therefore, various minor modifications were tested over time. To revise the McGill Quality of Life Questionnaire (McGill Quality of Life Questionnaire-Revised) while maintaining or improving its psychometric properties and length, keeping it as close as possible to the McGill Quality of Life Questionnaire to enable reasonable comparison with existing McGill Quality of Life Questionnaire literature. Data sets from eight studies were used (four studies originally used to develop the McGill Quality of Life Questionnaire, two to develop new McGill Quality of Life Questionnaire versions, and two with unrelated purposes). The McGill Quality of Life Questionnaire-Revised was developed using analyses of measurement invariance, confirmatory factor analysis, and calculation of correlations with the McGill Quality of Life Questionnaire's global quality of life item. Data were from 1702 people with life-threatening illnesses recruited from acute and palliative care units, palliative home care services, and oncology and HIV/AIDS outpatient clinics. The McGill Quality of Life Questionnaire-Revised consists of 14 items (plus the global quality of life item). A new Physical subscale was created combining physical symptoms and physical well-being and a new item on physical functioning. The Existential subscale was reduced to four items. The revised Support subscale, renamed Social, focuses more on relationships. The Psychological subscale remains unchanged. Confirmatory factor analysis results provide support for the measurement structure of the McGill Quality of Life Questionnaire-Revised. The overall scale has good internal consistency reliability ( α = 0.94). The McGill Quality of Life Questionnaire-Revised improves on and can replace the McGill Quality of Life Questionnaire since it contains improved wording, a somewhat expanded repertoire of concepts with fewer items, and a single subscale for the physical domain, while retaining good psychometric properties.

Patient-Reported Esthetic and Functional Outcomes of Primary Total Laparoscopic Intestinal Vaginoplasty in Transgender Women With Penoscrotal Hypoplasia.

PubMed

Bouman, Mark-Bram; van der Sluis, Wouter B; van Woudenberg Hamstra, Leonora E; Buncamper, Marlon E; Kreukels, Baudewijntje P C; Meijerink, Wilhelmus J H J; Mullender, Margriet G

2016-09-01

Puberty-suppressing hormonal treatment may result in penoscrotal hypoplasia in transgender women, making standard penile inversion vaginoplasty not feasible. For these patients, intestinal vaginoplasty is a surgical alternative, but knowledge on patient-reported postoperative outcomes and quality of life is lacking. To assess patient-reported functional and esthetic outcomes, quality of life, satisfaction, and sexual well-being after primary total laparoscopic intestinal vaginoplasty in transgender women. A survey study was performed on transgender women who underwent primary total laparoscopic intestinal vaginoplasty with at least 1 year of clinical follow-up. Thirty-one transgender women completed the questionnaires (median age at time of surgery = 19.1 years, range = 18.3-45.0) after a median clinical follow-up of 2.2 years (range = 0.8-7.5). Consenting women were asked to complete a combined questionnaire of the Subjective Happiness Scale, the Satisfaction With Life Scale, Cantril's Ladder of Life Scale, the Female Sexual Function Index, the Female Genital Self-Imaging Scale, the Amsterdam Hyperactive Pelvic Floor Scale-Women, and a questionnaire addressing postoperative satisfaction. Patient-reported functional and esthetic outcomes and postoperative quality of life. Patients graded their life satisfaction a median of 8.0 (range = 4.0-10.0) on Cantril's Ladder of Life Scale. Patients scored a mean total score of 27.7 ± 5.8 on the Satisfaction With Life Scale, which indicated high satisfaction with life, and a mean total score of 5.6 ± 1.4 on the Subjective Happiness Scale. Functionality was graded a median score of 8.0 of 10 (range = 1.0-10.0) and esthetics a score of 8.0 out of 10 (range = 3.0-10.0). The mean Female Sexual Function Index total score of sexually active transgender women was 26.0 ± 6.8. This group of relatively young transgender women reported satisfactory functional and esthetic results of the neovagina and a good quality of life, despite low Female Sexual Function Index scores. Copyright © 2016 International Society for Sexual Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Safety and function of a prototype microprocessor-controlled knee prosthesis for low active transfemoral amputees switching from a mechanic knee prosthesis: a pilot study.

PubMed

Hasenoehrl, Timothy; Schmalz, Thomas; Windhager, Reinhard; Domayer, Stephan; Dana, Sara; Ambrozy, Clemens; Palma, Stefano; Crevenna, Richard

2018-02-01

Aim of this pilot study was to assess safety and functioning of a microprocessor-controlled knee prosthesis (MPK) after a short familiarization time and no structured physical therapy. Five elderly, low-active transfemoral amputees who were fitted with a standard non-microprocessor controlled knee prosthesis (NMPK) performed a baseline measurement consisting of a 3 D gait analysis, functional tests and questionnaires. The first follow-up consisted of the same test procedure and was performed with the MPK after 4 to 6 weeks of familiarization. After being refitted to their standard NMPK again, the subjects undertook the second follow-up which consisted of solely questionnaires 4 weeks later. Questionnaires and functional tests showed an increase in the perception of safety. Moreover, gait analysis revealed more physiologic knee and hip extension/flexion patterns when using the MPK. Our results showed that although the Genium with Cenior-Leg ruleset-MPK (GCL-MPK) might help to improve several safety-related outcomes as well as gait biomechanics the functional potential of the GCL-MPK may have been limited without specific training and a sufficient acclimation period. Implications for Rehabilitation Elderly transfemoral amputees are often limited in their activity by safety issues as well as insufficient functioning regarding the non microprocessor-controlled knee prostheses (NMPK), thing that could be eliminated with the use of suitable microprocessor-controlled prostheses (MPK). The safety and functioning of a prototype MPK (GCL-MPK) specifically designed for the needs of older and low-active transfemoral amputees was assessed in this pilot study. The GCL-MPK showed indicators of increased safety and more natural walking patterns in older and low-active transfemoral amputees in comparison to the standard NMPK already after a short acclimatisation time and no structured physical therapy. Regarding functional performance it seems as if providing older and low-active transfemoral amputees with the GCL-MPK alone without prescribing structured prosthesis training might be insufficient to achieve improvements over the standard NMPKs.

Correlations Between the SF-36, the Oswestry-Disability Index and Rolland-Morris Disability Questionnaire in Patients Undergoing Lumbar Decompression According to Types of Spine Origin Pain.

PubMed

Ko, Sangbong; Chae, Seungbum

2017-07-01

Cross-sectional study. To determine the correlation between SF-36 (a measure for overall health status in patients) and Oswestry-Disability Index (ODI) or Rolland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ) confined to spine according to the type of pain from the spine. Data showed moderate correlation between ODI and SF-36 Physical Component Score (PCS), Physical Functioning (PF) (r=-0.46), Physical Role Functioning (RP) (r=-0.284), Bodily Pain (BP) (r=-0.327), and Mental Component Score (MCS), Emotional Role Functioning (r=-0.250), Social Role Functioning (r=0.254), Vitality (r=0.296). Between January 1, 2008 and December 31, 2013, a total of 69 patients were enrolled in this study. They were diagnosed with lumbar spinal stenosis and underwent decompression surgery such as laminotomy in this hospital. The 3 standardized questionnaires (ODI, RMDQ, and SF-36) were given to these patients, at least 1 year after the surgery. ODI and SF-36 had a statistically significant (P=0.001) and moderate correlation. Small correlations were also seen between Physical Functioning (r=-0.46), Physical Role Functioning (r=-0.284), and Bodily Pain (r=-0.327) of SF-36 PCS and ODI, and between Emotional Role Functioning (r=-0.250), Social Role Functioning (r=-0.254), and Vitality (r=-0.296) of SF-36 Mental Component Score and ODI. Items in ODI for the level of pain while standing and traveling were mostly related to axial back pain, while item of lifting was related to referred buttock pain. Sleeping disturbance section in the ODI was mainly caused by radiated leg pain. In addition, RMDQ was also associated to the 3 types of pain. Moderate correlation was found between ODI or RMDQ as a condition-specific outcome and the SF-36, indicating overall health status. ODI was found to be a more adequate measure to evaluate axial back pain rather than referred pain or radiating pain. RMDQ was adequate to measure the health status and to evaluate the 3 types of spine pain. These 3 instruments could therefore provide the clinician with complementary information about the patient's status.

Cognitive Dysfunction in Asian Patients with Depression (CogDAD): A Cross-Sectional Study

PubMed Central

Manit, Srisurapanont; Yee Ming, Mok; Yen Kuang, Yang; Herng-Nieng, Chan; Constantine D, Della; Zuraida, Zainal, Nor; Stephen, Jambunathan; Nurmiati, Amir; Pranabi, Kalita

2017-01-01

Background: Cognitive dysfunction is a predominant symptom of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), contributing to functional impairment. Objective: The primary objective of this study was to assess and describe perceived cognitive dysfunction amongst Asian patients diagnosed with MDD. The secondary objective was to explore the associations between depression severity, perceived cognitive dysfunction and functional disability. Methods: This was a multi-country, multi-centre, cross-sectional study. Adults with a current episode of MDD were recruited from 9 university/general hospital clinics in Asia. During a single study visit, psychiatrists assessed depression severity (Clinical Global Impression-Severity, CGI-S); patients completed questionnaires assessing depression severity (Patient Health Questionnaire-9 items, PHQ-9), perceived cognitive dysfunction (Perceived Deficit Questionnaire-Depression, PDQ-D) and functional disability (Sheehan Disability Scale, SDS). Results: Patients (n=664), predominantly women (66.3%), were aged 46.5±12.5 years, lived in urban areas (81.3%) and were employed (84.6%). 51.5% of patients were having their first depressive episode; 86.7% were receiving treatment; 82.2% had a current episode duration >8 weeks. Patients had mild-to-moderate depression (CGI-S=3.3±1.0; PHQ-9=11.3±6.9). Patients reported perceived cognitive dysfunction (PDQ-D=22.6±16.2) and functional disability (SDS=11.3±7.9). PHQ-9, PDQ-D and SDS were moderately-to-highly correlated (PHQ-9 and SDS: r=0.72; PHQ-9 and PDQ-D: r=0.69; PDQ-D and SDS, r=0.63). ANCOVA showed that after controlling for patient-reported depression severity (PHQ-9), perceived cognitive dysfunction (PDQ-D) was significantly associated with functional disability (SDS) (p<0.001). Conclusions: Asian patients with MDD reported perceived cognitive dysfunction. There is a need for physicians to evaluate cognitive dysfunction in the clinical setting in order to reach treatment goals, including functional recovery beyond remission of mood symptoms. PMID:29238395

Motor function tests for 0-2-year-old children - a systematic review.

PubMed

Kjølbye, Camilla Buch; Drivsholm, Thomas Bo; Ertmann, Ruth Kirk; Lykke, Kirsten; Rasmussen, Rasmus Køster

2018-06-01

There is no evidence on how motor function is best evaluated in children in a low-risk setting. The method used in the Danish Preventive Child Health Examination Programme (DPCHEP) in general practise has not been validated. The objective of this review was to identify existing motor function tests for 0-2-year-old children that were validated for use in the background population and which are suitable for use in the DPCHEP. This systematic review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. A systematic literature search was performed in PubMed, Embase, SwedMed, PsycInfo and CINAHL in accordance with the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Five motor function tests were identified. The Alberta Infant Motor Scale (AIMS) exclusively assesses motor function, the Harris Infant Neuromotor Assessment also assesses cognition and the Early Motor Questionnaire (EMQ) additionally assesses perception-action integration skills. The Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) and The Brigance Infant and Toddler Screen include further aspects of development. All test methods, except for the AIMS, are based on parent involvement. For implementation in the DPCHEP, five motor function tests were potentially adequate. However, the time consumption and extensive use of tools render three of the five tests unsuitable for implementation in the existing programme. The two remaining tests, the ASQ and the EMQ, are parent questionnaires. We suggest that these should be pilot tested with a view to their subsequent implementation in the DPCHEP. It may be considered to present the test elements in a more manageable and systematic way, possibly with illustrations. Articles published in the DMJ are “open access”. This means that the articles are distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Non-commercial License, which permits any non-commercial use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author(s) and source are credited.

Associations between education and physical functioning and pain in adult Danish cancer survivors.

PubMed

Winther, Dorte; Nygaard, Tina K; Horsbøl, Trine A; Kjær, Trille; Vedsted, Peter; Johansen, Christoffer; Hovaldt, Hanna B; Sandager, Mette; Dalton, Susanne O

2017-02-01

Late effects after cancer diagnosis and treatment are common, but only few studies have examined the role of social factors in developing these late effects. The aim of this study was to examine the association between educational level and physical function and pain among cancer survivors two years after diagnosis. The study population consisted of adult Danish patients with a first-time cancer diagnosis who were sent a questionnaire in 2010 and followed up in 2012. In total, 4346 returned the first questionnaire shortly after diagnosis and 2568 returned the follow-up questionnaire. After exclusion of 177 due to missing information, we included 2391 cancer survivors in the analyses. Physical function and pain were measured using the EORTC QLQ-C30. Linear regression analyses were conducted separately for men and women, and adjusted for demographic and clinical characteristics. Additionally, analyses were stratified on comorbidity. Differences in mean scores according to educational level were small. Physical function was better in women with medium (2.8; 95% CI 0.1;5.4) and higher education (3.4; 95% CI 0.9;5.9) compared to women with short education. In contrast, men with medium education reported lower physical function (-2.9; 95% CI -5.7;-0.1) than men with short education. Compared to women with short education, we found lower pain scores among women with medium (-5.0; 95% CI -8.7;-1.4) and higher education (-3.4; 95% CI -6.7;0.0). Similarly, men with higher education experienced lower pain score (-3.4; 95% CI -6.9;0.1) than men with short education. The role of educational level differed between those with and without comorbidity. Educational level is slightly associated with physical function and pain among cancer survivors. However, mean differences in this study were small and below what is considered clinically relevant.

Feasibility and changes in symptoms and functioning following inpatient cancer rehabilitation.

PubMed

Bertheussen, Gro F; Kaasa, Stein; Hokstad, Anne; Sandmæl, Jon Arne; Helbostad, Jorunn L; Salvesen, Øyvind; Oldervoll, Line M

2012-11-01

The aim was to assess feasibility of a 3 + 1 week inpatient rehabilitation program for cancer survivors, to explore characteristics of the attending participants and examine changes in work status, symptoms and functioning, level of fatigue, exercise and physical performance following rehabilitation. This was an open intervention study involving cancer survivors having completed primary cancer treatment. The multidisiplinary program consisted of physical training, patient education and group sessions. Participant were assessed at primary stay (T0), at follow-up stay 8-12 weeks later (T1), and six months after T1 (T2). Symptoms and functioning were assessed by the European Organization for Research and Treatment Core Quality-of-Life Questionnaire, physical fatigue by Fatigue Questionnaire, physical exercise by The Nord- Trøndelag Health Study Physical Activity Questionnaire and physical performance by aerobic capacity (VO(2max)), 30 second Sit-to-stand (STS) and Maximum Step Length (MSL). Linear mixed models were used in analyses. One hundred and thirty-four of 163 included participants (82%) completed both rehabilitation stays and returned questionaires at T2. The majority of completers were females (81%), breast cancer survivors (60%), highly educated and with mean age of 52.8 years (SD of 8.1). Participants had higher level of symptoms and fatigue and lower functioning at admission compared to a Norwegian reference population. However, they reported higher physical exercise level and 47% reported improved work status from T0 to T2. Symptoms and functioning, fatigue, physical exercise and physical performance improved significantly from T0 to T1 and were maintained at T2. The rehabilitation program was feasible and symptoms and functioning normalized following rehabilitation. The program mainly recruited well-educated breast cancer survivors, reporting relative high level of physical exercise. More focus should be put on recruiting and selecting those who need comprehensive inpatient rehabilitation and also compare the effects of inpatient with outpatient rehabilitation programs.

Functional limitations in Romanian children with haemophilia: further testing of psychometric properties of the Paediatric Haemophilia Activities List.

PubMed

Groen, W; van der Net, J; Lacatusu, A M; Serban, M; Helders, P J M; Fischer, K

2013-05-01

Children with haemophilia often experience limitations in activities of daily life. Recently the Paediatric Haemophilia Activities List (PedHAL) has been developed and tested in Dutch children with intensive replacement therapy. The psychometric properties of the PedHAL in children not receiving intensive replacement therapy are not known. The objective was to gain further insight into the psychometric properties of the PedHAL and to study the functional health status of Romanian children and adolescents with haemophilia. Children attending to the rehabilitation centre of Buzias in Romania were sampled consecutively. Construct validity of the PedHAL was evaluated by concurrent testing with objective and subjective measures of physical function and functional ability. Reproducibility was tested by a 3-day test-retest by intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and limits of agreement (LOA). Responsiveness to rehabilitation was assessed by Haemophilia Joint Health Score (HJHS) and PedHAL. Twenty-nine children with severe (n = 25) or moderate (n = 4) haemophilia participated. Mean age was 13.2 years (SD 4.0). Median score of the PedHAL was 83.5 (IQR 47.9-90.5). The PedHAL correlated moderately with HJHS (rho = -0.59), Functional Independence Score in& Haemophilia (rho = 0.65) and Child Health Questionnaire-physical function (rho = 0.40) and not with Child Health Questionnaire-mental health, Child Health Questionnaire-behaviour and 6MWT. Test-retest reliability was good (ICC = 0.95). LOA was 17.4 points for the sum score. HJHS scores improved slightly after rehabilitation, whereas PedHAL scores did not change. In general, construct validity and test-retest reliability were good, test-retest agreement showed some variability. Therefore, currently the PedHAL may be more appropriate for research purposes than for individual patient monitoring in clinical practice. © 2013 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Sexual dysfunction after colpectomy and vaginal reconstruction with a vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap.

PubMed

Løve, Uffe S; Sjøgren, Pia; Rasmussen, Peter; Laurberg, Søren; Christensen, Henrik K

2013-02-01

The use of the vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap in reconstruction after abdominoperineal resection or pelvic exenteration for neoplasia is well documented. However, functional outcomes after vaginal reconstruction, including sexual function, are poorly described. This study aimed to examine sexual function in women following extensive pelvic surgery with colpectomy and vaginal reconstruction with the use of a vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap. This study is a retrospective review of medical records in combination with patient questionnaires. Nonresponders were followed up with a second contact. This study was performed at a tertiary care university medical center (Colorectal Section, Department of Surgery P, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark) All women undergoing pelvic surgery and simultaneous vaginal reconstruction with the use of a vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap between 2004 and 2010 at our department were identified from a patient database. Thirty women who were alive at the time of identification were included in the study. Sexual function before and after surgery was evaluated by the use of the Sexual function Vaginal changes Questionnaire. The main outcome end point was whether the patient was sexually active after vaginal reconstruction. Twenty-six participants (87%) answered the questionnaire. Fifty percent of patients reported an active sex life before surgery. In general, patients reported an unchanged desire for both physical and sexual contact after surgery. However, only 2 patients (14%) reported being sexually active after surgery. This was a retrospective study with a heterogeneous cohort involving several types of cancers and surgical procedures. Factors other than vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap reconstruction itself may interfere with the sexual function. Extensive pelvic surgery with colpectomy leads to sexual dysfunction even when the vagina is reconstructed with a vertical rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap. This knowledge may improve the quality of information given to this group of patients before surgery.

Sexual function and quality of life in women with urinary incontinence treated by a complete pelvic floor rehabilitation program (biofeedback, functional electrical stimulation, pelvic floor muscles exercises, and vaginal cones).

PubMed

Rivalta, Massimo; Sighinolfi, Maria Chiara; Micali, Salvatore; De Stefani, Stefano; Bianchi, Giampaolo

2010-03-01

Urinary incontinence (UI) is a debilitating condition that can cause discomfort, embarrassment, loss of confidence; it can lead to withdrawal from social life, and adversely affects physical and mental health, sexual function and quality of life (QoL) in women. The aim is to determine the impact of combined pelvic floor rehabilitation (PFR) on UI, female sexual dysfunction, and QoL. Female Sexual Function Index questionnaire (FSFI) and King's Health Questionnaire (KHQ). Sixteen patients with UI were selected and underwent a complete PFR program (biofeedback, functional electrical stimulation, pelvic floor muscles exercises, and vaginal cones). Patient filled out the FSFI questionnaire and the KHQ at the baseline and at follow-up. After PFR none of the patients reported urine leakage during sexual activity. Resolution of incontinence was achieved in 13 (81.25%) women. Only three (18.75%) patients had positive 1-hour pad test after the treatment. There was significant difference between pad test leakage before and after the PFR (P < 0.001). The mean Stamey incontinence score was 1.37 +/- 0.5 at the baseline vs. 0.25 +/- 0.57 at the follow up (P < 0.001). Before PFR, FSFI total score ranged from 25.8 to 2 (mean 14.65 +/- 6.88), after treatment the FSFI total score ranged from 36 to 2 (mean 22.65 +/- 9.5) (P < 0.001). The improvement of the scores in the six FSFI domains, 5 months after the conclusion of PFR, was statistically significant (desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and pain). All the nine domains in the KHQ presented a low average score after treatment and the improvements were statistically significant. PFR led to a significant difference in the daily use of pads, 1-hour pad test, and Stamey incontinence scores. The treatment caused an improvement in patient's QoL index and sexual function.

Sexual Functioning Among Endometrial Cancer Patients Treated With Adjuvant High-Dose-Rate Intra-Vaginal Radiation Therapy

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

Damast, Shari, E-mail: shari.damast@yale.edu; Alektiar, Kaled M.; Goldfarb, Shari

Purpose: We used the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) to investigate the prevalence of sexual dysfunction (SD) and factors associated with diminished sexual functioning in early stage endometrial cancer (EC) patients treated with simple hysterectomy and adjuvant brachytherapy. Methods and Materials: A cohort of 104 patients followed in a radiation oncology clinic completed questionnaires to quantify current levels of sexual functioning. The time interval between hysterectomy and questionnaire completion ranged from <6 months to >5 years. Multivariate regression was performed using the FSFI as a continuous variable (score range, 1.2-35.4). SD was defined as an FSFI score of <26, basedmore » on the published validation study. Results: SD was reported by 81% of respondents. The mean ({+-} standard deviation) domain scores in order of highest-to-lowest functioning were: satisfaction, 2.9 ({+-}2.0); orgasm, 2.5 ({+-}2.4); desire, 2.4 ({+-}1.3); arousal, 2.2 ({+-}2.0); dryness, 2.1 ({+-}2.1); and pain, 1.9 ({+-}2.3). Compared to the index population in which the FSFI cut-score was validated (healthy women ages 18-74), all scores were low. Compared to published scores of a postmenopausal population, scores were not statistically different. Multivariate analysis isolated factors associated with lower FSFI scores, including having laparotomy as opposed to minimally invasive surgery (effect size, -7.1 points; 95% CI, -11.2 to -3.1; P<.001), lack of vaginal lubricant use (effect size, -4.4 points; 95% CI, -8.7 to -0.2, P=.040), and short time interval (<6 months) from hysterectomy to questionnaire completion (effect size, -4.6 points; 95% CI, -9.3-0.2; P=.059). Conclusions: The rate of SD, as defined by an FSFI score <26, was prevalent. The postmenopausal status of EC patients alone is a known risk factor for SD. Additional factors associated with poor sexual functioning following treatment for EC included receipt of laparotomy and lack of vaginal lubricant use.« less

Clinical responsiveness of self-report functional assessment measures for children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis undergoing intraarticular corticosteroid injections.

PubMed

Brown, G Ted; Wright, F Virginia; Lang, Bianca A; Birdi, Nina; Oen, Kim; Stephens, Derek; McComas, Joan; Feldman, Brian M

2005-12-15

The Childhood Health Assessment Questionnaire (CHAQ), Juvenile Arthritis Functional Assessment Report (JAFAR), and Juvenile Arthritis Functional Status Index (JASI) are widely used functional measures for juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) that differ in content, format, and completion time. We compared the responsiveness and child-parent agreement of the JAFAR, CHAQ, and JASI in a prospective, multicenter study. Children and adolescents from 5 rheumatology centers were enrolled. Subjects were about to undergo therapy (intraarticular corticosteroid injections [IAS] and methotrexate or hip surgery (MTX/hip]) expected to produce a functional improvement. All subjects were studied before the intervention and at 6 weeks and 6 months posttreatment. At each study visit, the 3 measures were administered in randomized, balanced order to both parents and children. A total of 92 subjects (mean age 12.8 years) were enrolled in the study, 74 of which were in the IAS group. The responsiveness of all 3 measures was moderate to strong. The standardized response mean at 6 weeks for the IAS group on the JAFAR, CHAQ, and JASI was 0.41 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.18, 0.64), 0.70 (95% CI 0.47, 0.93), and 0.36 (95% CI 0.13, 0.59), respectively. The CHAQ was somewhat more responsive to change at 6 weeks (IAS group: relative efficiency 0.34 [JAFAR], 0.27 [JASI]), but less responsive at 6 months (MTX/hip group: relative efficiency 5.1 [JAFAR], 3.9 [JASI]). All 3 questionnaires showed acceptable parent-child agreement, and overall, there were few differences between the 3 questionnaires. The functional outcome measures currently used for JIA are all adequately responsive for use in trials or in the clinic setting. The choice of which measure to use should therefore be based on the time available for completion, the intended clinical/research use, and the depth of content required.

Cross-syndrome comparison of real-world executive functioning and problem solving using a new problem-solving questionnaire.

PubMed

Camp, Joanne S; Karmiloff-Smith, Annette; Thomas, Michael S C; Farran, Emily K

2016-12-01

Individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders like Williams syndrome and Down syndrome exhibit executive function impairments on experimental tasks (Lanfranchi, Jerman, Dal Pont, Alberti, & Vianello, 2010; Menghini, Addona, Costanzo, & Vicari, 2010), but the way that they use executive functioning for problem solving in everyday life has not hitherto been explored. The study aim is to understand cross-syndrome characteristics of everyday executive functioning and problem solving. Parents/carers of individuals with Williams syndrome (n=47) or Down syndrome (n=31) of a similar chronological age (m=17 years 4 months and 18 years respectively) as well as those of a group of younger typically developing children (n=34; m=8years 3 months) completed two questionnaires: the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF; Gioia, Isquith, Guy, & Kenworthy, 2000) and a novel Problem-Solving Questionnaire. The rated likelihood of reaching a solution in a problem solving situation was lower for both syndromic groups than the typical group, and lower still for the Williams syndrome group than the Down syndrome group. The proportion of group members meeting the criterion for clinical significance on the BRIEF was also highest for the Williams syndrome group. While changing response, avoiding losing focus and maintaining perseverance were important for problem-solving success in all groups, asking for help and avoiding becoming emotional were also important for the Down syndrome and Williams syndrome groups respectively. Keeping possessions in order was a relative strength amongst BRIEF scales for the Down syndrome group. Results suggest that individuals with Down syndrome tend to use compensatory strategies for problem solving (asking for help and potentially, keeping items well ordered), while for individuals with Williams syndrome, emotional reactions disrupt their problem-solving skills. This paper highlights the importance of identifying syndrome-specific problem-solving strengths and difficulties to improve effective functioning in everyday life. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

ABILOCO-Kids: a Rasch-built 10-item questionnaire for assessing locomotion ability in children with cerebral palsy.

PubMed

Caty, Gilles D; Gilles, Caty D; Arnould, Carlyne; Thonnard, Jean-Louis; Lejeune, Thierry M

2008-11-01

To develop a questionnaire (ABILOCO-Kids) based on the Rasch measurement model that assesses locomotion ability in children with cerebral palsy. Prospective study and questionnaire development. A total of 113 children with cerebral palsy (10 (standard deviation 2.5) years old). A 41-item questionnaire was developed based on existing scales and on the clinical experience of professionals in the field of rehabilitation. This questionnaire was tested separately on the 113 children with cerebral palsy and their parents. Their responses were analysed using the Rasch model (RUMM-2020) to select items that had an ordered rating scale and that fit a unidimensional model. The final ABILOCO-Kids scale consisted of 10 locomotion activities, of which difficulty was rated by the parents. The parents gave a more precise assessment of their children's ability than the children themselves, leading to a wider range of measurement that was well-targeted on the sample population and that had good reliability (r=0.97) and reproducibility (intraclass correlation coefficient=0.96). Item calibration did not vary with age, sex or clinical presentation (hemiplegia, diplegia, quadriplegia). The concurrent validity of the ABILOCO-Kids questionnaire was also shown by its correlation with the Gross Motor Function Classification System. The ABILOCO-Kids questionnaire has good psychometric qualities for measuring a wide range of locomotion abilities in children with cerebral palsy.

Sexual satisfaction, anxiety, depression and quality of life among Turkish colorectal cancer patients [Izmir Oncology Group (IZOG) study].

PubMed

Akyol, Murat; Ulger, Eda; Alacacioglu, Ahmet; Kucukzeybek, Yuksel; Yildiz, Yasar; Bayoglu, Vedat; Gumus, Zehra; Yildiz, Ibrahim; Salman, Tarık; Varol, Umut; Ayakdas, Semra; Tarhan, Mustafa Oktay

2015-07-01

Determination of psychological problems will shed light on the terms of solution and provide support to patients about these problems will ensure the patients' coherence to the treatment and will enhance the benefits they receive from treatment. In this study, we aimed to determine these psychosocial problems and the interactions with each other in colon cancer patients. In this study, 105 patients with colorectal cancer were included. The forms consist of sociodemographic features, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, European Organization for Research on Treatment of Cancer Questionnaires Quality of Life-C30 and Golombok-Rust Inventory of Sexual Satisfaction questionnaires. Male patients had significantly higher European Organization for Research on Treatment of Cancer Questionnaires Quality of Life-C30 function scales and global quality-of-life scores than female patients. Golombok-Rust Inventory of Sexual Satisfaction scores of female patients were significantly higher than that of male patients. European Organization for Research on Treatment of Cancer Questionnaires Quality of Life-C30 function scales and global quality-of-life scores of the patients with high depression scores were significantly lower, conversely symptom scale scores of the patients with high depression scores were significantly higher than that of the patients with low depression scores. Patients with low anxiety scores had significantly higher European Organization for Research on Treatment of Cancer Questionnaires Quality of Life-C30 function scales and global quality-of-life scores than the patients with high anxiety scores. Symptom scale scores of the patients with high anxiety scores were significantly higher than that of the patients with low anxiety scores. The scores of Golombok-Rust Inventory of Sexual Satisfaction except premature ejaculation and vaginismus were significantly higher in patients with high anxiety scores and a significant difference was determined in touch, avoidance and anorgasm. This study demonstrates that there is a significant association with anxiety/depression symptoms and quality-of-life scores, sexual dysfunction. Sexual dysfunction is significantly more common in patients with high anxiety and depression scores. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

QUALITY OF LIFE OF CHILDREN WITH RICKETS IN YOUNG AGE IN ARMENIA.

PubMed

Dunamalyan, R; Mardiyan, M; Danielyan, L; Mkrtchyan, S; Chopikyan, A

2017-02-01

Quality of Life (QL) currently is one of the most important criteria for evaluating a child's function. The main characteristics of QL in pediatrics are the psychological, physical and social functioning of the body. Integral characteristics of QOL based on the subjective perception of the components of the child and his parents. As a result of the official statistics and our research it turned out that children in this age-group more often suffer from intestinal infections, anemia, hypertrophy, rickets, skin and subcutaneous fiber disease, deficiencies occurring in prenatal period. The aim of the research is to evaluate the peculiarities of QL criteria change in case of rickets. So far in Armenia there were no tools of QL assessment of children of an early age, thereby the most acceptable questionnaire of QUALIN was used to create Armenian version on its basis. We cooperated with MAPI institute and the authors of QUALIN(Qualite de vie du Nourisson) questionnaire (Manificat S., Dazord A,) and got MAPI's permission to apply the questionnaire in the Republic of Armenia. The questionnaire QUALIN was selected for studying children's QL. The results show that the QL of children with rickets is lower than the QL of the ones who are healthy. The difference is more vividly expressed in the following parameters of QL: neuropsychological development and physical health, the ability to stay alone. In this case the pediatricians have given lower mark of QL than parents. We think that one of the possible motives of such diversity is the professional approach of doctors who estimated the QL more strictly than parents did. So QUALIN international questionnaire can be applied to estimate the peculiarities of QL criteria change of children with rickets at an early age.

Quality of life of living kidney donors: the short-form 36-item health questionnaire survey.

PubMed

Isotani, Shuji; Fujisawa, Masato; Ichikawa, Yasuji; Ishimura, Takeshi; Matsumoto, Osamu; Hamami, Gaku; Arakawa, Soichi; Iijima, Kazumoto; Yoshikawa, Norishige; Nagano, Shunsuke; Kamidono, Sadao

2002-10-01

To determine the psychological and social effects of kidney donation on kidney donors by using the short-form 36-item health survey (SF-36) as the quality-of-life questionnaire. A total of 104 living donor nephrectomies have been performed at Kobe University Hospital and Nishinomiya Prefectural Hospital. We mailed the questionnaires to donors or handed them out directly at the outpatient clinic. The first part of the questionnaire consisted of the SF-36 (limitations on physical functioning because of health problems) and the second part consisted of 15 questions about donation-related stress, expenses incurred, physical changes, and pre-existing factors such as relationship to the recipients. The SF-36 and the questionnaire about donor satisfaction were completed by 69 donors (48 women and 21 men; mean age 52.1 +/- 8.2 years), only 6 of whom (9%) reported minor complications with the donor operation. The SF-36 scores of our donors were not significantly different from that of the general U.S. population and U.S. donors. In some categories (physical functioning, role-physical, bodily pain, general health, vitality, and mental health), our donors scored slightly higher than the U.S. general population. Although 97% of the donors would make the same choice again, 3% believed that donating had had a negative impact on their health, and 16% reported negative financial consequences. The quality of life for kidney donors was not affected by donor nephrectomy. Living kidney transplantation seems to be suitable for the rescue of patients with end-stage renal disease. Better psychological and technical preparation for surgery and more consistent follow-up may reduce the negative outcomes even further.

Symptoms of Functional Intestinal Disorders Are Common in Patients with Celiac Disease Following Transition to a Gluten-Free Diet.

PubMed

Silvester, Jocelyn A; Graff, Lesley A; Rigaux, Lisa; Bernstein, Charles N; Leffler, Daniel A; Kelly, Ciarán P; Walker, John R; Duerksen, Donald R

2017-09-01

Celiac disease and functional intestinal disorders may overlap, yet the natural history of functional symptoms in patients with celiac disease is unknown. To investigate the prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), functional dyspepsia (FD), and functional bloating (FB) symptoms among patients with celiac disease at diagnosis and during the first year of a gluten-free diet. Adults with a new diagnosis of celiac disease were surveyed at baseline, 6 months and 1 year using standardized measures for intestinal symptoms [Rome III diagnostic questionnaire and celiac symptom index (CSI)] and gluten-free diet adherence [gluten-free eating assessment tool (GF-EAT) and celiac diet adherence test]. At diagnosis, two-thirds fulfilled Rome III diagnostic questionnaire symptom criteria for IBS (52%), functional dyspepsia (27%), and/or functional bloating (9%). One year post-diagnosis, there was high adherence to a gluten-free diet as 93% reported gluten exposure less than once per month on the GF-EAT and only 8% had ongoing celiac disease symptoms (CSI score >45). The rates of those meeting IBS (22%) and functional dyspepsia (8%) symptom criteria both decreased significantly on a gluten-free diet. The prevalence of functional symptoms (any of IBS, FD or FB) at 1 year was 47%. Long-term follow-up of patients with celiac disease is necessary because many patients with celiac disease who are adherent to a gluten-free diet have persistent gastrointestinal symptoms.

Lung function and functional capacity among foundry workers using effective risk control measures.

PubMed

Bernardes, Rosane Andrea Bretas; Chiavegato, Luciana Dias; de Moraes, Mônica Vasconcelos; Negreiros, Alexandher; Padula, Rosimeire Simprini

2015-01-01

Inhaled dust in the environment can trigger specific reactions in the airways and cause various respiratory diseases. Evaluate the lung function and functional capacity of foundry workers who are exposed to metals and use effective control measures. A cross-sectional study was realized with 108 workers at a bronze foundry and machining plant and in maintenance at a private university, both in Brazil. The workers were divided into two groups: the study group exposed to metals but using risk control measues and a control group not exposed to metal work. The Medical Research Council Questionnaire on Respiratory Symptoms and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire were administered, and lung function and functional capacity were evaluated. Comparative statistics were used to identify differences in the outcome measures between the two groups. The groups had similar personal and anthropometric characteristics and time on the job. Spirometry and peak expiratory flow presented no significant differences between the groups. And there was also no statistically significant difference between groups in functional capacity as assessed by performance on the six-minute walk test. Foundry industry workers in Brazil who were exposed to metal but used risk control measures had similar lung function and functional capacity when compared to the control group who were not exposed to metal. This is a positive results and maybe related to age, time exposure and control of occupational hazards. However, these workers need to continue being monitored in longitudinal studies.