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Responses of consecutive patients to reassurance after gastroscopy: results of self administered questionnaire survey.
OBJECTIVE: To study the time course and prediction of responses to reassurance after gastroscopy showing no serious illness. DESIGN: Selection of consecutive patients were assessed before gastroscopy, immediately after reassurance, and at follow up at 24 hours, 1 week, 1 month, and 1 year. Responses of subgroups of patients identified as high, medium, and low health anxiety by the health anxiety questionnaire were analysed. SETTING: Endoscopy clinic in a general hospital. INTERVENTION: Oral reassurance that there was "nothing seriously wrong." SUBJECTS: One consultant physician and 60 patients aged 18-74 referred for gastroscopy. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Physician's and patients' ratings of the extent of the reassurance and patients' ratings of their anxiety about their health and of their illness belief. RESULTS: There was good agreement between the patients and the physician about whether reassurance had been given. Health anxiety and illness belief decreased markedly after reassurance. Patients with high health anxiety showed a significant resurgence in their worry and illness belief at 24 hours and 1 week, and these levels were maintained at 1 months and 1 year later. Patients with medium levels of health anxiety showed a reduction in worry and illness belief after reassurance, and this was generally maintained during follow up. Patients with low health anxiety maintained low levels of health worry and illness belief throughout the study. Partial correlation analyses showed that the levels of worry and illness belief after reassurance were predicted by the health anxiety questionnaire. This measure also had predictive value beyond that of a measure of general anxiety. CONCLUSIONS: Medical reassurance results in a reduction of worry about health and of illness belief, but this may be very short term. Measurable individual differences in health anxiety can be used to predict the response to reassurance. PMID:9302953
Lucock, M. P.; Morley, S.; White, C.; Peake, M. D.
A randomised controlled trial to assess the effectiveness of offering study results as an incentive to increase response rates to postal questionnaires [ISRCTN26118436
Background Postal questionnaires are widely used to collect outcome data on participants. However, a poor response to questionnaires will reduce the statistical power of the study and may introduce bias. A meta analysis of ten trials offering study results, largely in the fields of education and marketing, was shown to be ineffective, with the odds ratio for response with offering research findings is 0.92 (95% CI 0.75 to 1.11). However uncertainty still exists as it is uncertain whether results from such trials can be extrapolated to that of a health care setting. The aim of this study was to assess whether offering participants study results increases the response rates to postal questionnaires. Methods 1038 women aged over 70 years were remotely randomised by computer in a 3:1 ratio. 250 participants did not receive the offer of knowing the results of the trial and 788 participants were offered the results of the trial in a postal questionnaire. The main outcome measure was response rate. Chi square test was used to evaluate the overall differences in response rate between the two groups. An adjusted analysis, adjusting for whether the participant was taking calcium and age was also undertaken. Results The response rates were not significantly different Odds Ratio 0.88 (95% confidence intervals 0.48 to 1.63) p = 0.69. Conclusion Offering study results to women living in the community aged over 70 does not increase response rates to postal questionnaires. Although researchers have an ethical obligation to offer participants study results, since 10% of women did not wish to receive the results, investigators should give participants the option to opt out of receiving the study's results. PMID:16250910
Cockayne, Sarah; Torgerson, David J
Physical Activity Questionnaire Search Results
The Brunel Lifestyle Physical Activity Questionnaire a4 If you add together each session of pre-planned physical activity that you engage in during a normal week, how much time would you estimate that you spend in total?
Physical Activity Questionnaire Search Results
The Physical Activity Questionnaire for Elderly Japanese (PAQ-EJ) 1 Over 7 typical days, how often did you take a walk or ride a bicycle on errands such as going to or from a store or taking children to school?
Physical Activity Questionnaire Search Results
Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) 13 Do you do any moderate-intensity sports, fitness or recreational (leisure) activities that causes a small increase in breathing or heart rate such as brisk walking, cycling, swimming, volleyball) for at least 10 minutes continuously?
Physical Activity Questionnaire Search Results
Neighborhood Physical Activity Questionnaire (NPAQ) A1 In a USUAL WEEK, do you cycle in or around your new neighbourhood or new local area to get to or from somewhere (such as cycling to a shop or to public transport) or for recreation, health or fitness (including cycling with your dog)?
Responsiveness of the individual work performance questionnaire
Background Individual work performance is an important outcome measure in studies in the workplace. Nevertheless, its conceptualization and measurement has proven challenging. To overcome limitations of existing scales, the Individual Work Performance Questionnaire (IWPQ) was recently developed. The aim of the current study was to gain insight into the responsiveness of the IWPQ. Methods Data were used from the Be Active & Relax randomized controlled trial. The aim of the trial was to investigate the effectiveness of an intervention to stimulate physical activity and relaxation of office workers, on need for recovery. Individual work performance was a secondary outcome measure of the trial. In total, 39 hypotheses were formulated concerning correlations between changes on the IWPQ scales and changes on similar constructs (e.g., presenteeism) and distinct constructs (e.g., need for recovery) used in the trial. Results 260 Participants completed the IWPQ at both baseline and 12�months of follow-up. For the IWPQ scales, 23%, 15%, and 38%, respectively, of the hypotheses could be confirmed. In general, the correlations between change scores were weaker than expected. Nevertheless, at least 85% of the correlations were in the expected direction. Conclusions Based on results of the current study, no firm conclusions can be drawn about the responsiveness of the IWPQ. Several reasons may account for the weaker than expected correlations. Future research on the IWPQ�s responsiveness should be conducted, preferably in other populations and intervention studies, where greater changes over time can be expected. PMID:24885593
Family Adventure Questionnaire: Results and Discussion.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
This article presents the results of a survey conducted with 44 adventure programs working with families. Results of the survey show that the majority of families served by family adventure programs are step families. The source of the programs' primary referrals were mental health or medical staff. Programs reported that they worked almost�
Gillis, H. L.; And Others
Item Response Modeling of Forced-Choice Questionnaires
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Multidimensional forced-choice formats can significantly reduce the impact of numerous response biases typically associated with rating scales. However, if scored with classical methodology, these questionnaires produce ipsative data, which lead to distorted scale relationships and make comparisons between individuals problematic. This research�
Brown, Anna; Maydeu-Olivares, Alberto
Psychometric evaluation and refinement of the Pain Response Preference Questionnaire
BACKGROUND: The Pain Response Preference Questionnaire (PRPQ) assesses preferences regarding pain-related social support. The initial factor analytical study of the PRPQ produced four empirically supported scales labelled Solicitude, Management, Encouragement and Suppression. A second study produced similar findings, but suggested that the Management and Encouragement scales be combined into a single scale labelled Activity Direction. OBJECTIVES: To use factor analytical methods to evaluate these competing configurations of the PRPQ (ie, three versus four scales) and to further refine the measure. The ability of the PRPQ scales to account for pain severity and disability ratings was also evaluated. METHODS: Chronic pain patients (n=201) completed the PRPQ along with the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS) and self-reports of pain severity and disability. RESULTS: Confirmatory factor analysis indicated that both models tested provided a poor fit to the data. A follow-up exploratory factor analysis was used to further refine the PRPQ scales and resulted in scales labelled Solicitude, Encouragement and Suppression. Supportive of the potential clinical utility of the PRPQ, Suppression was positively associated with pain severity and Solicitude was positively associated with disability. These two scales were also positively associated with the PCS. Supportive of the incremental validity of the PRPQ, a multiple regression analysis indicated that the Solicitude scale accounted for unique variance in disability ratings beyond that accounted for by demographic/clinical variables and the PCS. CONCLUSIONS: The PRPQ has promise as a clinical assessment measure and for advancing research examining the interpersonal context of pain. PMID:24205508
McWilliams, Lachlan A; Kowal, John; Sharpe, Donald; Dick, Bruce D
Does participation in an intervention affect responses on self-reported questionnaires?
Technology Transfer Automated Retrieval System (TEKTRAN)
There has been some concern that participation in an intervention and exposure to a measurement instrument can change participants' interpretation of the items on a self-report questionnaire, thereby distorting subsequent responses and biasing results. Differential item functioning (DIF) analysis us...
Increased response proportions for postal questionnaires in Texas veterinarians using incentives
Incentives are used to increase response proportions to postal questionnaires. Our objective was to compare the response proportions between incentive groups receiving a $1 bill, pen, both and none with a postal questionnaire for a veterinary public health survey conducted among veterinarians in Texas. We mailed questionnaires to a random sample of veterinarians (n=683) from Texas with three types of
Bikash Bhattarai; Geoffrey T. Fosgate
Questionnaire Design, Return Rates, and Response Favorableness in an Employee Attitude Questionnaire
Topic order and location of demographic items were systematically varied in an employee attitude survey distributed to 1,188 office personnel of a single organization. With six questionnaire topic areas arranged in the order that matched employee representatives' perceptions of employee priorities, returns were higher (96%) than with any of five random orders (average 78%). Returns were higher with demographic items
Michael T. Roberson; Eric Sundstrom
A procedure for removing the effect of response bias errors from waterfowl hunter questionnaire responses
Response bias errors are studied by comparing questionnaire responses from waterfowl hunters using four large public hunting areas with actual hunting data from these areas during two hunting seasons. To the extent that the data permit, the sources of the error in the responses were studied and the contribution of each type to the total error was measured. Response bias errors, including both prestige and memory bias, were found to be very large as compared to non-response and sampling errors. Good fits were obtained with the seasonal kill distribution of the actual hunting data and the negative binomial distribution and a good fit was obtained with the distribution of total season hunting activity and the semi-logarithmic curve. A comparison of the actual seasonal distributions with the questionnaire response distributions revealed that the prestige and memory bias errors are both positive. The comparisons also revealed the tendency for memory bias errors to occur at digit frequencies divisible by five and for prestige bias errors to occur at frequencies which are multiples of the legal daily bag limit. A graphical adjustment of the response distributions was carried out by developing a smooth curve from those frequency classes not included in the predictable biased frequency classes referred to above. Group averages were used in constructing the curve, as suggested by Ezekiel [1950]. The efficiency of the technique described for reducing response bias errors in hunter questionnaire responses on seasonal waterfowl kill is high in large samples. The graphical method is not as efficient in removing response bias errors in hunter questionnaire responses on seasonal hunting activity where an average of 60 percent was removed.
Atwood, E.L.
Meta-analysis of randomised trials of monetary incentives and response to mailed questionnaires
Study objective: To quantify the increase in mailed questionnaire response attributable to a monetary incentive.Design: A systematic search for randomised controlled trials of monetary incentives and mailed questionnaire response was conducted. For each trial identified, logistic regression was used to estimate the odds ratio for response per $0.01 incentive increase. Odds ratios were pooled in a series of random effect
Phil Edwards; Rachel Cooper; Ian Roberts; Chris Frost
Summary of Results from Community College TASP Effects Questionnaire.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
In 1990, a survey was conducted of Texas community colleges to determine what, if any, effects they experienced after the first full semester of the implementation of the Texas Academic Skills Program (TASP) implementation. The questionnaire solicited information on the impact of TASP on enrollment and on interactive television and�
Angel, Dan; And Others
Responsiveness of the Korean Version of the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire after Carpal Tunnel Release
Background The Korean version of the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (K-MHQ) was recently validated; however, the questionnaire's responsiveness as well as the degree to which the instrument is sensitive to change has not been thoroughly evaluated in a specific condition in Koreans. We evaluated the responsiveness of the K-MHQ in a homogenous cohort of patients with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and we compared it with that of the Korean version of the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand Questionnaire (K-DASH), which was found to have a large degree of responsiveness after carpal tunnel release for Korean patients with CTS. Methods Thirty-seven patients with CTS prospectively completed the K-MHQ and the K-DASH before and 6 months after surgery. The responsiveness statistics were assessed for both the K-MHQ and the K-DASH by using the standardized response mean (SRM), which was defined as the mean change of the original scores after surgery divided by the standard deviation of the change. Results All domains of the K-MHQ significantly improved after carpal tunnel release (p < 0.001). The SRM for all scales but one (the aesthetics scale) showed large responsiveness of ? 0.8. The aesthetics scale showed medium responsiveness of 0.6. The combined function/symptom scale of the K-DASH significantly improved after surgery (p < 0.001). The SRM of the K-DASH revealed large responsiveness of 0.9. Conclusions The K-MHQ was found to have a large degree of responsiveness after carpal tunnel release for Korean patients with CTS, which is comparable not only to the K-DASH, but also to the original version of the MHQ. The region-specific K-MHQ can be useful for outcomes research related to carpal tunnel surgery, especially for research comparing CTS with various other hand and wrist health conditions. PMID:24900903
Wi, Seung Myung; Bae, Kee Jeong; Roh, Young Hak; Lee, Young Ho; Baek, Goo Hyun
Boundary Questionnaire Results in the Mentally Healthy Elderly
The Hartmann Boundary Questionnaire was administered twice, with six months in between, to 61 Swiss subjects over 60 years of age taking part in an investigation into the effects of dream-telling on five variables: well-being, sleep quality, sleep duration, dream recall and dream tone. In addition, dream epoch, i.e., the age of life of the dreamer as perceived in the
Arthur T. Funkhouser; Othmar W�rmle; Claude M. Cornu; Marcel Bahro
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
The Individual Consistency of Acquiescence and Extreme Response Style in Self-Report Questionnaires
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
The severity of bias in respondents' self-reports due to acquiescence response style (ARS) and extreme response style (ERS) depends strongly on how consistent these response styles are over the course of a questionnaire. In the literature, different alternative hypotheses on response style (in)consistency circulate. Therefore, nine alternative�
Weijters, Bert; Geuens, Maggie; Schillewaert, Niels
Daily Diaries vs Retrospective Questionnaires to Assess Asthma Control and Therapeutic Responses in Asthma Clinical Trials
Background: Presently, there is insufficient information to compare the value of daily diaries vs retrospective questionnaires for assessing symptoms in relationship to asthma control in clinical trials. Daily symptom diaries are often burdensome to gather, incomplete, susceptible to fabrication, and of questionable reliability. There is also concern that retrospective symptom questionnaires may be subject to poor recall and may be insensitive. Methods: To compare these two methods of assessing symptoms reporting, we analyzed data collected during the Best Add-on Therapy Giving Effective Responses (BADGER) trial. During the trial, asthma control in 182 children aged 6 to 17 years was assessed in two ways: (1) by asthma control days (ACDs) determined by manually recorded daily diary symptom and rescue medication use scores and (2) by monthly retrospective report of symptoms embedded within the age-appropriate version of the Asthma Control Test (ACT). Correlations between ACDs and ACT scores were analyzed, and the sensitivity of each method for measuring asthma control and determining the differential response among the three BADGER treatments was evaluated. Results: Although validated using a 4-week recall period, ACT correlated better with daily diary information from the last 2 weeks of the 4-week recall (r = 0.46) than from the first 2 weeks (r = 0.34). In addition, clinically significant differential treatment responses were detected using ACDs but not ACT scores . Conclusions: The results of this study indicate that daily diaries used to determine ACDs can be a more sensitive tool than ACT for assessing differential treatment responses with respect to asthma control. PMID:23287844
Sorkness, Christine A.; Mauger, David T.; Jackson, Daniel J.; Lemanske, Robert F.
Development and preliminary results of the Financial Incentive Coercion Assessment questionnaire.
Financial incentives are often used in research, yet no measure exists to determine whether they lead to perceptions of coercion in subjects. We present a preliminary evaluation of a recently developed Financial Incentive Coercion Assessment (FICA) questionnaire. FICA measures perceived coercion specifically related to payment for participation in a research study. Two hundred sixty-six subjects were recruited from a large randomized controlled trial; 152 returned for a 6-month follow-up and completed the FICA. Approximately 30% of participants reported the major reason for participating was "for the money," but less than 5% felt that the financial incentives were coercive. FICA results are consistent with levels of perceived coercion using an alternative measure. Initial assessment of responses on the FICA suggests that it may provide a novel approach to measuring perceived coercion from financial incentives in research. Future work will refine the FICA and analyze its psychometric properties. PMID:22116011
Byrne, Margaret M; Croft, Jason R; French, Michael T; Dugosh, Karen L; Festinger, David S
Factors Influencing Schoolchildren's Responses to a Questionnaire in Wildlife Conservation Education
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Questionnaires are important tools for assessing attitudes regarding conservation issues. However, they are not easily comparable and their reliability has been insufficiently assessed. We examined factors influencing responses to open- and closed-ended questions about animal conservation to more than 600 schoolchildren (9 years old on average).�
Ballouard, Jean-Marie; Mullin, Stephen J.; Ajtic, Rastko; Brito, Jos� Carlos; ElMouden, El Hassan; Erdogan, Mehmet; Feriche, Monica; Pleguezuelos, Juan M.; Prokop, Pavol; S�nchez, Aida; Santos, Xavier; Slimani, Tahar; Sterijovski, Bogoljub; Tomovic, Ljiljana; Usak, Muhammet; Zuffi, Marco; Bonnet, Xavier
Item response modeling: an evaluation of the children's fruit and vegetable self-efficacy questionnaire
Technology Transfer Automated Retrieval System (TEKTRAN)
Perceived self-efficacy (SE) for eating fruit and vegetables (FV) is a key variable mediating FV change in interventions. This study applies item response modeling (IRM) to a fruit, juice and vegetable self-efficacy questionnaire (FVSEQ) previously validated with classical test theory (CTT) procedur...
Vodafone response to European Commission Questionnaire on the Open Internet and Net Neutrality in Europe
Vodafone response to European Commission Questionnaire on the Open Internet and Net Neutrality in Europe 1. Vodafone welcomes the Commission's consultation on net neutrality. This topic is important be addressed to email@example.com. #12;Question 1: Is there currently a problem of net neutrality
Kuzmanovic, Aleksandar
Item Response Modeling: An Evaluation of the Children's Fruit and Vegetable Self-Efficacy Questionnaire
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Perceived self-efficacy (SE) for eating fruit and vegetables (FV) is a key variable mediating FV change in interventions. This study applies item response modeling (IRM) to a fruit, juice and vegetable self-efficacy questionnaire (FVSEQ) previously validated with classical test theory (CTT) procedures. The 24-item (five-point Likert scale) FVSEQ�
Watson, Kathy; Baranowski, Tom; Thompson, Debbe
002 op: explaining discrepant results from questionnaires and interviews concerning help-seeking: are 'public' and 'private' accounts the key?
Social surveys and interviews are staple methods within health research. One of the perceived merits of the postal questionnaire is the anonymity it affords to participants, enabling people to provide honest accounts, particularly in relation to sensitive topics. Interviewing can potentially introduce bias to participants' accounts because of a compulsion to provide socially desirable responses. Here we examine these assumptions through a comparison of questionnaire and interview accounts of the help-seeking experiences of people with symptoms of cancer. Public discourses of early diagnosis of cancer are increasingly commonplace, particularly after the 'Be Clear on Cancer' campaigns, which reinforced the importance of consulting quickly when experiencing cancer symptoms. This study aimed to explore the help-seeking experiences of people with symptoms of lung or colorectal cancer by inviting patients to complete a questionnaire about their symptom onset and first consultation with a health care practitioner. A sub sample of these participants were interviewed about their help-seeking experiences, with the interviews taking place within 8 weeks of the questionnaires being returned. We found that the reported length of the help-seeking interval (time from first symptom to first consultation with a health care practitioner) differed in questionnaire and interview accounts for the majority of participants. Whilst we may have expected participants to report longer intervals in the questionnaire, because of its perceived ability to reduce social desirability bias, we found that the converse was true; for most of the cases where there was a discrepancy in interval length between questionnaire and interview, longer help-seeking intervals were reported in the interview. We shall consider possible explanations for these unexpected results, suggesting that the concept of 'public accounts' and 'private accounts' provides insight into these discrepant participant responses. The formality of the questionnaire and the closed nature of questioning may encourage participants to report more socially acceptable behaviours in order to conform to public discourses around early help-seeking and early diagnosis. Whereas in interviews, participants were able to report more deviant accounts because they were within the private setting (their homes) and were able to narrate their stories and detail their reasoning. PMID:25869704
Dobson, C M; Brown, S R; Russell, A J; Rubin, G P
Design methodology for a community response questionnaire on sonic boom exposure
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
A preliminary draft questionnaire concerning community response to sonic booms was developed. Interviews were conducted in two communities that had experienced supersonic overflights of the SR-71 airplane for several years. Even though the overflights had ceased about 6 months prior to the interviews, people clearly remembered hearing sonic booms. A total of 22 people living in central Utah and 23 people living along Idaho/Washington state border took part in these interviews. The draft questionnaire was constantly modified during the study in order to evaluate different versions. Questions were developed which related to annoyance, startle, sleep disturbance, building vibration, and building damage. Based on the data collected, a proposed community response survey response instrument was developed for application in a full-scale sonic boom study.
Farbry, John E., Jr.; Fields, James M.; Molino, John A.; Demiranda, Gwendolyn A.
Design methodology for a community response questionnaire on sonic boom exposure
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
A preliminary draft questionnaire concerning community response to sonic booms was developed. Interviews were conducted in two communities that had experienced supersonic overflights of the SR-71 airplane for several years. Even though the overflights had ceased about 6 months prior to the interviews, people clearly remembered hearing sonic booms. A total of 22 people living in central Utah and 23 people living along Idaho/Washington state border took part in these interviews. The draft questionnaire was constantly modified during the study in order to evaluate different versions. Questions were developed which related to annoyance, startle, sleep disturbance, building vibration, and building damage. Based on the data collected, a proposed community response survey response instrument was developed for application in a full-scale sonic boom study.
Farbry, John E., Jr.; Fields, James M.; Molino, John A.; Demiranda, Gwendolyn A.
Response set bias, internal consistency and construct validity of the Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire
Background: The Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire (ODQ) is a widely used 10-item paper and pencil measure of disability resulting from low back pain. However, few studies have assessed the psychometric properties of the instrument. This study evaluated the response set bias, the internal consistency, and the construct validity of the ODQ. Objectives: The original ODQ was compared to seven modified versions to examine whether a response set bias existed. The internal consistency of the ODQ was assessed using the Cronbach alpha. Finally, the relationship between scores on the ODQ and the Roland Morris Functional Disability Scal (RM) was examined. Methods: Seven modified versions of the ODQ were developed from the original. One of the eight versions was randomly allocated to 102 adult patients presenting with low lack pain. There was no attempt to select patients on the basis of pain intensity or prior treatment so as to maximize the range and diversity of low back pain sufferers. Results: Results suggest that the responses given on the eight versions of the ODQ are a function of content and not of the format in which the items are presented. The ODQ also has strong internal consisstency (alpha = 0.85) and is strongly correlated to the RM (r = .70, p = .0005). The ODQ is a significant predictor of the RM scores (T-9.45, p = .0005) and duration of symptoms (T = -2.17, p = .0325). Conclusion: The ODQ appears to possess stable psychometric properties. The use of more than one version provides practitioners with a means of repeatedly assessing the disability levels of patients suffering from low back pain over the course of treatment.
Tibbles, Anthony C; Waalen, Judith K; Hains, Fran�ois C
Development of the Knee Quality of Life (KQoL-26) 26-item questionnaire: data quality, reliability, validity and responsiveness
Background This article describes the development and validation of a self-reported questionnaire, the KQoL-26, that is based on the views of patients with a suspected ligamentous or meniscal injury of the knee that assesses the impact of their knee problem on the quality of their lives. Methods Patient interviews and focus groups were used to derive questionnaire content. The instrument was assessed for data quality, reliability, validity, and responsiveness using data from a randomised trial and patient survey about general practitioners' use of Magnetic Resonance Imaging for patients with a suspected ligamentous or meniscal injury. Results Interview and focus group data produced a 40-item questionnaire designed for self-completion. 559 trial patients and 323 survey patients responded to the questionnaire. Following principal components analysis and Rasch analysis, 26 items were found to contribute to three scales of knee-related quality of life: physical functioning, activity limitations, and emotional functioning. Item-total correlations ranged from 0.60�0.82. Cronbach's alpha and test retest reliability estimates were 0.91�0.94 and 0.80�0.93 respectively. Hypothesised correlations with the Lysholm Knee Scale, EQ-5D, SF-36 and knee symptom questions were evidence for construct validity. The instrument produced highly significant change scores for 65 trial patients indicating that their knee was a little or somewhat better at six months. The new instrument had higher effect sizes (range 0.86�1.13) and responsiveness statistics (range 1.50�2.13) than the EQ-5D and SF-36. Conclusion The KQoL-26 has good evidence for internal reliability, test-retest reliability, validity and responsiveness, and is recommended for use in randomised trials and other evaluative studies of patients with a suspected ligamentous or meniscal injury. PMID:18616820
Garratt, Andrew M; Brealey, Stephen; Robling, Michael; Atwell, Chris; Russell, Ian; Gillespie, William; King, David
Mokken scale analysis of mental health and wellbeing questionnaire item responses: a nonparametric IRT method in empirical research for applied health researchers
respectively. The questionnaire data analyzed comprise responses to the 12 item General Health Questionnaire, under the binary recoding recommended for screening applications, and the ordinal/polytomous responses to the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale...
Stochl, Jan; Jones, Peter B; Croudace, Tim J
The Validity and Responsiveness of the Michigan Hand Questionnaire (MHQ) in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis � A Multicenter, International Study
Objective Millions of patients suffer from the disabling hand manifestations of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), yet few hand-specific instruments are validated in this population. Our objective is to assess the reliability, validity, and responsiveness of the Michigan Hand Questionnaire (MHQ) in RA patients. Methods At enrollment and at 6 months, 128 RA patients with severe subluxation of the metacarpophalangeal joints completed the MHQ, a 37-item questionnaire with 6 domains: function, activities of daily living (ADL), pain, work, aesthetics, and satisfaction. Reliability was measured using Spearman correlation coefficients (r) between time periods. Internal consistency was measured using Cronbach�s ?. Construct validity was measured by correlating MHQ responses with the Arthritis Impact Measurement Scale 2 (AIMS2). Responsiveness was measured by calculating standardized response means between time periods. Results The MHQ demonstrated good test-retest reliability (r = 0.66, p<0.001). Cronbach�s ? scores were high for ADL (?=0.90), function (?=0.87), aesthetics (?=0.79), and satisfaction (?=0.89), indicating redundancy. The MHQ correlated well with AIMS2 responses. Function (r=?0.63), ADL (r=?0.77), work (r=?0.64), pain (r=0.59), and summary score (r=?0.74) were correlated with the physical domain. Affect was correlated with ADL (r=?0.47), work (r=?0.47), pain (r=0.48), and summary score (r=?0.53). Responsiveness was excellent among arthroplasty patients: function (SRM=1.42), ADL (SRM=0.89), aesthetics (SRM=1.23), satisfaction (SRM=1.76), and summary score (SRM=1.61). Conclusions The MHQ is easily administered, reliable and valid to measure rheumatoid hand function, and can be used to measure outcomes in rheumatoid hand disease. PMID:20521331
Waljee, Jennifer F.; Chung, Kevin C.; Kim, H. Myra; Burns, Patricia B.; Burke, Frank D.; Shaw Wilgis, E. F.; Fox, David A.
Interstitial cystitis in the UK: results of a questionnaire survey of members of the Interstitial Cystitis Support Group
Purpose: To examine the site, severity, and duration, of symptoms in patients with interstitial cystitis. To examine the treatments offered. Materials and methods: Postal questionnaire administered to members of the Interstitial Cystitis Support Group, based in the United Kingdom. Results: 736 of 1148 (64%) questionnaires were returned. 696 (94.6%) patients were women. 471 patients (64%) described daily pain when symptoms
Douglas G. Tincello; Anthony C. H. Walker
A Better Response Rate for Questionnaires: Attitudes of Librarians in Nigerian University Libraries
This study investigates librarian attitudes towards the completion of questionnaires in Nigerian university libraries. Data was collected from 57 librarians in three Nigerian university libraries. Respondents receive several questionnaires each year. Most respond to all, but those who do not cite lack of time. Those who respond to questionnaires mostly do so to assist the researchers. Library and information science
Esharenana E. Adomi; Blessing T. Ayo; E. D. Nakpodia
Night driving curfews in New York and Louisiana: results of a questionnaire survey.
New York and Louisiana, two states having night driving curfews, were included in a questionnaire survey of high school students conducted in 1983. Most students in these states knew about their curfew law. In both states the majority of licensed drivers said they had violated the curfew, but the majority claimed to have violated the curfew no more than twice. Students do not believe that the police enforce curfew restrictions vigorously, but many parents require their children to obey the law. New York students were more knowledgeable than Louisiana students about the restrictions, and there was more evidence in New York than Louisiana of reduced driving resulting from the curfew. These findings are consistent with results of an earlier study that found curfews in both of these states reduced crashes but estimated crash reductions during curfew hours were greater in New York than in Louisiana. PMID:4096804
Williams, A F; Lund, A K; Preusser, D F
Validation of the Intestinal Part of the Prostate Cancer Questionnaire 'QUFW94': Psychometric Properties, Responsiveness, and Content Validity
Purpose: Several treatment options are available for patients with prostate cancer. Applicable and valid self-assessment instruments for assessing health-related quality of life (HRQOL) are of paramount importance. The aim of this study was to explore the validity and responsiveness of the intestinal part of the prostate cancer-specific questionnaire QUFW94. Methods and Materials: The content of the intestinal part of QUFW94 was examined by evaluation of experienced clinicians and reviewing the literature. The psychometric properties and responsiveness were assessed by analyzing HRQOL data from the randomized study Scandinavian Prostate Cancer Group 7 (SPCG)/Swedish Association for Urological Oncology 3 (SFUO). Subscales were constructed by means of exploratory factor analyses. Internal consistency was assessed by Cronbach's alpha. Responsiveness was investigated by comparing baseline scores with the 4-year posttreatment follow-up. Results: The content validity was found acceptable, but some amendments were proposed. The factor analyses revealed two symptom scales. The first scale comprised five items regarding general stool problems, frequency, incontinence, need to plan toilet visits, and daily activity. Cronbach's alpha at 0.83 indicated acceptable homogeneity. The second scale was less consistent with a Cronbach's alpha at 0.55. The overall responsiveness was found to be very satisfactory. Conclusion: Two scales were identified in the bowel dimension of the QUFW94; the first one had good internal consistency. The responsiveness was excellent, and some modifications are suggested to strengthen the content validity.
Reidunsdatter, Randi J. [Department of Radiography, Faculty of Technology, Sor-Trondelag University College, Trondheim (Norway); Lund, Jo-Asmund [Department of Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Norwegian University of Technology and Science, Trondheim (Norway); Department of Oncology, St. Olavs University Hospital, Trondheim (Norway); Fransson, Per; Widmark, Anders [Department of Radiation Sciences, Oncology, Umea University Hospital, Umea (Sweden)
Weight Loss Maintenance in African�American Women: Focus Group Results and Questionnaire Development
BACKGROUND African-American women are disproportionately affected by obesity. Weight loss can occur, but maintenance is rare. Little is known about weight loss maintenance in African-American women. OBJECTIVES (1) To increase understanding of weight loss maintenance in African-American women; (2) to use the elicitation procedure from the theory of planned behavior (TPB) to define the constructs of attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control regarding weight loss and maintenance; and (3) to help develop a relevant questionnaire that can be used to explore weight loss and maintenance in a large sample of African Americans. DESIGN Seven focus groups were conducted with African-American women: four with women successful at weight loss maintenance, three with women who lost weight but regained it. Discussions centered on weight loss and maintenance experiences. PARTICIPANTS Thirty-seven African-American women. APPROACH Content analysis of focus group transcripts. RESULTS Weight loss maintainers lost 22% of body weight. They view positive support from others and active opposition to cultural norms as critical for maintenance. They struggle with weight regain, but have strategies in place to lose weight again. Some maintainers struggle with being perceived as sick or too thin at their new weight. Regainers and maintainers struggle with hairstyle management during exercise. The theoretical constructs from TPB were defined and supported by focus group content. CONCLUSIONS A weight loss questionnaire for African Americans should include questions regarding social support in weight maintenance, the importance of hair management during exercise, the influence of cultural norms on weight and food consumption, and concerns about being perceived as too thin or sick when weight is lost. PMID:17415617
Goodrick, G. Kenneth; Pavlik, Valory; Markesino, Jennifer; Laws, Donna Y.; Taylor, Wendell C.
Questionnaire results of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for acute carbon monoxide poisoning in Japan.
Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning results in not only severe psychoneurological disorders, but can also cause secondary delayed psychoneurological disorders. Therefore, timely and appropriate treatment in the acute stage is crucial to prevent such direct neurological damage and secondary disorders. However, various conflicting results have been reported in studies of CO poisoning treatment, and the efficacy of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO2T) for CO poisoning has not been established. This retrospective multi-institutional study was performed by the questionnaire in 1667 cases of acute CO poisoning in Japan. The effectiveness of HBO2T for CO poisoning was evaluated based on prognoses in cases and various classes of hospital based on the grade of their positive stance regarding HBO2T. The results showed that the prognosis in the group treated with HBOT was significantly better than that in the group treated with normobaric oxygen therapy (NBO2T) (P < 0.01), thus confirming the effectiveness of HBO2T for CO poisoning. Furthermore, while hospitals were separated into three groups according to their indication criteria for HBO2T, the ineffective ratio of NBO2T was dependent on the indication criteria, even though the effective ratio of HBO2T was the same in all three groups. In conclusion, a retrospective multi-institutional study showed that HBO2T is an effective form of therapy for CO poisoning. PMID:22530447
Kusuba, Yoko; Taki, Kenji; Ohta, Akihide
Patient satisfaction with oral implant rehabilitation: evaluation of responses to a questionnaire
Summary Aim This pilot study evaluated patients� experience of oral surgical and prosthetic procedures as well as their opinions regarding function, aesthetics, comfort, and satisfaction with treatment outcomes. Materials and methods Forty-nine subjects treated with oral implants completed questionnaires comprising 44 questions. Three questionnaires were used related to implant-supported single-tooth, fixed implant-supported prostheses and implant-retained overdentures. The questions related to demographic data (age, sex, employment, marital status and educational level), the source of information, the reason they underwent implant treatment, the discomfort related to all phases of treatment, and their functional and aesthetic satisfaction. Results Most of the patients (53.8%) were employed and had received a high school certificate or a university diploma. Patients heard about implants from various sources, including referring dentists (55.8%), relatives and friends (23.1%), and television, radio and the Internet (17.3%). The main reasons for choosing implant treatment were restoring lost teeth (35,5%), following dentist�s advice (33,3%), improving stability of the removable denture (15.4%), eating habits (13.5%) and aesthetics (1.9%). Most patients considered that the procedure took a long time (44.2%) but was not traumatic (62.5%). Pain was almost absent in most cases (64.5%) and swelling, when present, was generally moderate (48.1%) and seldom was marked (17.3%). Patients were very satisfied about the aesthetics (82.7%) and function (94.2%), and considered the implant prosthesis to be part of themselves (84.6%). Most of the patients considered the implant prostheses to be easy to clean (73.1%), and would repeat the treatment if necessary (86.5%) and recommend it to other people (94.2%). Conclusions Although the present study is limited by the small sample, the outcomes suggest that oral implant rehabilitation meets patients� needs and aesthetic demands. PMID:22238708
Annibali, Susanna; Vestri, Anna Rita; Pilotto, Annalisa; La Monaca, Gerardo; Di Carlo, Stefano; Cristalli, Maria Paola
Occupational health risks of pathologists - results from a nationwide online questionnaire in Switzerland
Background Pathologists are highly trained medical professionals who play an essential part in the diagnosis and therapy planning of malignancies and inflammatory diseases. Their work is associated with potential health hazards including injuries involving infectious human tissue, chemicals which are assumed to be carcinogenic or long periods of microscope and computer work. This study aimed to provide the first comprehensive assessment of the health situation of pathologists in Switzerland. Methods Pathologists in Switzerland were contacted via the Swiss Society of Pathologists and asked to answer an ethically approved, online anonymous questionnaire comprising 48 questions on occupational health problems, workplace characteristics and health behaviour. Results 163 pathologists participated in the study. Forty percent of pathologists reported musculoskeletal problems in the previous month. The overall prevalence was 76%. Almost 90% of pathologists had visual refraction errors, mainly myopia. 83% of pathologists had experienced occupational injuries, mostly cutting injuries, in their professional career; more than one fifth of participants reported cutting injuries in the last year. However, long lasting injuries and infectious diseases were rare. Depression and burnout affected every eighth pathologist. The prevalence of smoking was substantially below that of the general Swiss population. Conclusions The results of this study suggest that more care should be taken in technical and personal protective measures, ergonomic workplace optimisation and reduction of work overload and work inefficiencies. Despite the described health risks, Swiss pathologists were optimistic about their future and their working situation. The high rate of ametropia and psychological problems warrants further study. PMID:23216705
A pilot validation of a modified Illness Perceptions Questionnaire designed to predict response to cognitive therapy for psychosis
Background and objectives Clinical responsiveness to cognitive behavioural therapy for psychosis (CBTp) varies. Recent research has demonstrated that illness perceptions predict active engagement in therapy, and, thereby, better outcomes. In this study, we aimed to investigate the psychometric properties of a modification of the Illness Perceptions Questionnaire (M-IPQ) designed to predict response following CBTp. Methods Fifty-six participants with persistent, distressing delusions completed the M-IPQ; forty before a brief CBT intervention targeting persecutory ideation and sixteen before and after a control condition. Additional predictors of outcome (delusional conviction, symptom severity and belief inflexibility) were assessed at baseline. Outcomes were assessed at baseline and at follow-up four to eight weeks later. Results The M-IPQ comprised two factors measuring problem duration and therapy-specific perceptions of Cure/Control. Associated subscales, formed by summing the relevant items for each factor, were reliable in their structure. The Cure/Control subscale was also reliable over time; showed convergent validity with other predictors of outcome; predicted therapy outcomes; and differentially predicted treatment effects. Limitations We measured outcome without an associated measure of engagement, in a small sample. Findings are consistent with hypothesis and existing research, but require replication in a larger, purposively recruited sample. Conclusions The Cure/Control subscale of the M-IPQ shows promise as a predictor of response to therapy. Specifically targeting these illness perceptions in the early stages of cognitive behavioural therapy may improve engagement and, consequently, outcomes. PMID:25011076
Marcus, Elena; Garety, Philippa; Weinman, John; Emsley, Richard; Dunn, Graham; Bebbington, Paul; Freeman, Daniel; Kuipers, Elizabeth; Fowler, David; Hardy, Amy; Waller, Helen; Jolley, Suzanne
Assessment of Symptoms in Adult Survivors of Incest: A Factor Analytic Study of the Responses to Childhood Incest Questionnaire.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
A study of the construction and factor validity of the Response to Child Incest Questionnaire, a self-report instrument for assessing commonly reported symptoms of adult survivors of incest, is reported. The instrument's usefulness as a pre- and post-treatment measure and further research needs are discussed. (MSE)
Edwards, Patrick W.; Donaldson, Mary Ann
Knowledge and Behaviour of Young People Concerning Fertility Risks � Results of a Questionnaire
Purpose: The aim of this study was, in the light of the increasing number of involuntarily childless couples, to investigate the state of knowledge of young people of fertile age about the risks for fertility disorders and their own risk behaviour. In addition, we wanted to check for a relationship between these aspects and the motives for wanting children, individual personality traits and psychological status. Materials and Methods: 498 women and men between the ages of 18 and 30 years participated in an anonymous survey. The sample consisted of 153 medical students, 190 students from other faculties and 155 vocational trainees. Their knowledge was tested by way of open questions on reproduction. The sum total from relevant life-style factors was used to estimate their risk-taking behaviour. Their psychic states were examined using the Health Questionnaire for Patients �Gesundheitsfragebogen f�r Patienten� PHQ-D, in addition the Leipzig Questionnaire on Motives for Wanting Children �Der Leipziger Fragebogen zu Kinderwunschmotiven� and the short version of the �Big Five Inventory� BFI-K were used. Results: The participants were aware of the risks for fertility disorders but did not always correctly assess their influence on fertility. Their knowledge about reproduction was rather low (on average 6.3 from 16 points). Medical students had a significantly higher state of knowledge and exhibited less risky behaviour as compared to the other two groups. Depressiveness and risky behaviour correlated positively and emotional aspects played the major role in attitudes towards having children. Risk behaviour was best predicted by the variables depressiveness, low level of knowledge and the feeling of being restricted in personal life by children. Discussion: Lack of knowledge on the topics fertility and reproduction could be a reason for risky behaviour and thus have a negative impact on lifestyle factors relating to fertility. Young people are aware of the risk factors that may affect fertility but do not always act accordingly. Primary prevention or, respectively, health promotion is thus necessary to prevent further increases in the number of infertile couples. PMID:24771934
F�gener, J.; Matthes, A.; Strau�, B.
Scenario Use in European Software Organizations - Results from Site Visits and Questionnaires
this paper, we report on our insights into today's industrial practice gained during 15 sitevisits at industrial systems development projects and from a questionnaire disseminated to alarger number of organizations. These efforts have been carried out as part of the long termresearch ESPRIT project CREWS (Cooperative Requirements Engineering With Scenarios).Our survey showed that usage of scenarios is widely adopted in
M. Jarke; K. Pohl; P. Haumer; K. Weidenhaupt; RWTH Aachen; E. Dubois; P. Heymans; FUNDP Namur; C. Rolland; C. Ben Achour; C. Cauvet; J. Ralyt�; A. Sutcliffe; N. A. M. Maiden; S. Minocha
Results of a questionnaire about nurse students' smoking habits and knowledges in an Italian teaching school of nursing
Six-hundred and sixty-two nurse students (aged 25.2 � 4.11 years; 153 were males) answered a self-administered, anonymous questionnaire about smoking habits and knowledges in a large urban Teaching School of Nursing. The overall response rate was 88%. Current smokers were 336 (51%), former smokers 80 (12%). Nurse students claimed to know the dangers of tobacco and nurse training seemed to
E. Boccoli; A. Federici; A. S. Melanie; E. Paola
Objective The purpose of this investigation was to compare the latent structures of the interview (EDE) and questionnaire (EDE-Q) versions of the Eating Disorder Examination. Methods Participants were 280 children, adolescents, and young adults seeking eating disorder treatment. Two separate latent structure analyses (LSAs) were conducted; one used variables from the EDE as indicators and the other used the corresponding variables from the EDE-Q as indicators. Results The EDE and EDE-Q models both yielded four-class solutions. Three of the four classes from the EDE-Q model demonstrated moderate to high concordance with their paired class from the EDE model. Using the EDE-Q to detect the EDE, the sensitivity and specificity of measuring certain classes varied from poor (18.6%) to excellent (93.7%). The overall concordance was moderate (?=.49). Discussion These data suggest that LSAs using the EDE and EDE-Q may be directly compared; however, differences between results may represent inconsistencies in response patterns rather than true differences in psychopathology. PMID:23375185
Berg, Kelly C.; Swanson, Sonja A.; Stiles-Shields, E. Colleen; Eddy, Kamryn T.; Peterson, Carol B.; Le Grange, Daniel
Undergraduate Project Work. Part I: The Report [and] Part II: Questionnaire Responses.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Undergraduate project work at the University of Bath, England, was investigated through a survey of students and project supervisors. The investigation as conducted for each of two academic years with two different respondent groups, and the first year questionnaire and a revised second-year version are appended. To facilitate reference to the�
Harris, N. D. C.; Smith, B.
Pronunciation-Specific Adjustment Strategies for Intelligibility in L2 Teacher Talk: Results and Implications of a Questionnaire Study
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
A questionnaire study was conducted to examine how 120 highly experienced EFL (English as a foreign language) teachers in Japan adjust their pronunciation in order to facilitate and refine their students' learning skills to approach mutual intelligibility in second language (L2) classrooms (i.e. "pronunciation-specific teacher talk"). The results�
Saito, Kazuya; van Poeteren, Kim
What Explains Usage of Mobile Physician-Rating Apps? Results From a Web-Based Questionnaire
Background Consumers are increasingly accessing health-related information via mobile devices. Recently, several apps to rate and locate physicians have been released in the United States and Germany. However, knowledge about what kinds of variables explain usage of mobile physician-rating apps is still lacking. Objective This study analyzes factors influencing the adoption of and willingness to pay for mobile physician-rating apps. A structural equation model was developed based on the Technology Acceptance Model and the literature on health-related information searches and usage of mobile apps. Relationships in the model were analyzed for moderating effects of physician-rating website (PRW) usage. Methods A total of 1006 randomly selected German patients who had visited a general practitioner at least once in the 3 months before the beginning of the survey were randomly selected and surveyed. A total of 958 usable questionnaires were analyzed by partial least squares path modeling and moderator analyses. Results The suggested model yielded a high model fit. We found that perceived ease of use (PEOU) of the Internet to gain health-related information, the sociodemographic variables age and gender, and the psychographic variables digital literacy, feelings about the Internet and other Web-based applications in general, patients� value of health-related knowledgeability, as well as the information-seeking behavior variables regarding the amount of daily private Internet use for health-related information, frequency of using apps for health-related information in the past, and attitude toward PRWs significantly affected the adoption of mobile physician-rating apps. The sociodemographic variable age, but not gender, and the psychographic variables feelings about the Internet and other Web-based applications in general and patients� value of health-related knowledgeability, but not digital literacy, were significant predictors of willingness to pay. Frequency of using apps for health-related information in the past and attitude toward PRWs, but not the amount of daily Internet use for health-related information, were significant predictors of willingness to pay. The perceived usefulness of the Internet to gain health-related information and the amount of daily Internet use in general did not have any significant effect on both of the endogenous variables. The moderation analysis with the group comparisons for users and nonusers of PRWs revealed that the attitude toward PRWs had significantly more impact on the adoption and willingness to pay for mobile physician-rating apps in the nonuser group. Conclusions Important variables that contribute to the adoption of a mobile physician-rating app and the willingness to pay for it were identified. The results of this study are important for researchers because they can provide important insights about the variables that influence the acceptance of apps that allow for ratings of physicians. They are also useful for creators of mobile physician-rating apps because they can help tailor mobile physician-rating apps to the consumers� characteristics and needs. PMID:24918859
Terlutter, Ralf; R�ttl, Johanna
Redefining cutaneous lupus erythematosus: a proposed international consensus approach and results of a preliminary questionnaire
There is currently no uniform definition of cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) upon which to base a study population for observational and interventional trials. A preliminary questionnaire was derived from and sent to a panel of CLE experts which demonstrated consensus agreement that (1) there is a need for new definitions for CLE (2) CLE is distinct from systemic lupus erythematosus�and that a CLE grouping scheme should remain apart from current systemic lupus erythematosus schema (3) current CLE grouping schemes are inadequate around communication, prognostic information and to meet the needs of researchers, clinicians, patients and payers.
Merola, J F; Nyberg, F; Furukawa, F; Goodfield, M J; Hasegawa, M; Marinovic, B; Szepietowski, J; Dutz, J; Werth, V P
Ride quality assessment. III - Questionnaire results of a second flight programme
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
A questionnaire was completed by 861 passengers on regularly-scheduled flights of four commuter airlines. Four types of aircraft were involved. Questions assessed major demographic variables, attitudes toward flying, frequency of flying, experience of airsickness, and passenger perceptions of detailed aspects of the physical environment. Passengers also rated their overall comfort level and their willingness to fly again. Passengers perceive motion, noise, and seat factors as the primary determinants of their comfort. Rated comfort is strongly related to willingness to fly again. Incidence of airsickness was low. Sex differences in reactions to aspects of the environment were found.
Richards, L. G.; Jacobson, I. D.
Prescription stimulant expectancies in recreational and medical users: results from a preliminary expectancy questionnaire.
Given the rise of prescription stimulant misuse, examination of effect expectancies could prove helpful. The Prescription Stimulant Expectancy Questionnaire (PSEQ) was designed to explore positive and negative prescription stimulant-related expectancies. In 2006, 157 participants nationwide completed an Internet survey of prescription stimulant use, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms, and expectancies. Multiple regressions demonstrate that positive, but not negative expectancies, predicted frequency of use. Recreational and medical users were classified by hierarchical cluster analysis. Recreational users reported fewer positive and negative expectancies than medical users. Implications and limitations are discussed. Future research is warranted on prescription stimulant expectancies and the utility of the PSEQ. PMID:19938932
Looby, Alison; Earleywine, Mitch
A comparison of responses to alcohol expectancy questionnaire (CEOA) of Indian and Malaysian medical students.
Alcohol addiction is a social problem faced by every country worldwide. Young people are more at risk of this menace. In spite of a clear knowledge and message about the effects of alcohol on individual health and social fabric, it is hard to curb the overuse of this beverage. In the present study, we compared the outcome of a survey using Comprehensive effects of Alcohol (CEOA) in two private Medical institutions in two Asian countries, viz. KMC, Mangalore, India (n=180) and AIMST, Kedah, Malaysia (n=170). The study included both males and female students. The result suggested that the negative reinforcement responses were rated higher in both the study groups. But those who have tasted alcohol before had a higher rating that alcohol may cause positive reinforcement. Both groups of respondents showed similar trend suggesting that the alcohol expectancies are similar in Indian students and Malaysian students. From the results we could conclude that the responses of the two sample groups were comparable to each other. While the male respondents were inclined show higher affinity towards acceptance of alcohol females are very much less so. However, the respondents of both groups appeared to be well aware of the negative aspects of alcohol. Importantly previous exposure to alcohol intake dramatically changed the perception and showed increased inclination towards alcoholism. This study thus provides an important clue to the clinician, counselors and parents regarding the importance of guiding the young people about the alcoholism. PMID:21409864
Ganaraja, B; Ramesh, Bhat M; Kotian, M S
Why German farmers have their animals vaccinated against Bluetongue virus serotype 8: results of a questionnaire survey.
In response to the Bluetongue disease epidemic in 2006-2007, Germany started in 2008 a country-wide mandatory vaccination campaign. By 2009 the number of new outbreaks had decreased so that vaccination became voluntary in 2010. We conducted a questionnaire survey in cattle and sheep farms in three German federal states, namely North-Rhine Westphalia, Rhineland Palatinate and Saxony-Anhalt to estimate the vaccination uptake in 2010, the intention to vaccinate in 2011 and the main determinants of refusal or acceptance to do so. The results showed that 42.8% (40.6-45.1) of the cattle farmers and 33.8% (31.8-35.8) of the sheep farmers had their animals vaccinated in 2010, whereas 40.7% (38.5-43.0) of cattle and 37.93% (35.8-40.1) sheep farmers expressed their intention to vaccinate in 2011. The main reasons mentioned for having animals vaccinated against BTV-8 were ability to export animals, prevention of production losses, subsidized vaccination, and recommendation by the veterinarian. Motives for refusing vaccination were presumed low risk of infection, costs, absence of clinical BT symptoms, presumed negative cost-benefit ratio, and negative experience with previous vaccination events (side effects). We assume that in order to increase farmers' motivation to have their animals immunized against BTV-8, (1) the vaccination needs to be subsidized, (2) combined vaccines with several different BT serotypes or even other diseases should be available and (3) farmers need to be better informed about the safety and benefit of vaccination. PMID:25454856
Gethmann, J; Zilow, V; Probst, C; Elbers, A R W; Conraths, F J
Effects of Color, Format, and Severity of Issue on Response Rate of Mail Questionnaires When Respondent Population Has Some Familiarity with Sender.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
The effects of (1) format and color, and (2) severity of issue (freeze damage to citrus industry) on response rate of mail questionnaires is presented. Questionnaires were formatted in two different ways: a one page, legal size printed on both sides, and one sheet 11- by 17-inch size center-folded with items on three pages. Two colors were used:�
Taylor, C. L.; Summerhill, W. R.
Government/industry response to questionnaire on space mechanisms/tribology technology needs
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
President Bush has proposed that the U.S. undertake an ambitious mission of manned and robotic exploration of the solar system. This mission will require advanced mechanical moving components, such as bearings, gears, seals, lubricants, etc. There has been concern in the NASA community that the current technology level in these mechanical component/tribology areas may not be adequate to meet the goals of such a mission. To attempt to answer this, NASA-Lewis has sent out a questionnaire to government and industry workers (who have been involved in space mechanism research, design, and implementation) to ask their opinion if the current space mechanisms technology (mechanical components/tribology) is adequate to meet future NASA Missions needs and goals. If they deemed that the technology base inadequate, they were asked to specify the areas of greatest need. The unedited remarks of those who responded to the survey are presented.
Fusaro, Robert L.
The effect of two lottery-style incentives on response rates to postal questionnaires in a prospective cohort study in preschool children at high risk of asthma: a randomized trial
Background In research with long-term follow-up and repeated measurements, quick and complete response to questionnaires helps ensure a study�s validity, precision and efficiency. Evidence on the effect of non-monetary incentives on response rates in observational longitudinal research is scarce. Objectives To study the impact of two strategies to enhance completeness and efficiency in observational cohort studies with follow-up durations of around 2?years. Method and intervention In a factorial design, 771 children between 2 and 5?years old and their parents participating in a prospective cohort study were randomized to three intervention groups and a control group. Three types of lotteries were run: (i) daytrip tickets for the whole family to a popular amusement park if they returned all postal questionnaires, (ii) �12.50-worth gift vouchers for sending back the questionnaire on time after each questionnaire round and (iii) a combination of (i) and (ii). Main outcome measures Primary outcome was the proportion of participants who returned all questionnaires without any reminder. Secondary outcomes were �100% returned with or without reminder�, �probability of 100% non-response�, �probability of withdrawal�, �proportion of returned questionnaires� and �overall number of reminders sent�. Statistical analysis After testing for interaction between the two lottery interventions, the two trials were analysed separately. We calculated risk differences (RD) and numbers needed to �treat� and their 95% confidence intervals. Results Daytrip nor voucher intervention had an effect on the proportion of participants who returned all questionnaires (RD ?0.01; 95% CI-0.07 � 0.06) and (RD 0.02; 95% CI-0.50 � 0.08), respectively. No effects were found on the secondary outcomes. Conclusion Our findings do not support the idea that lottery-style incentives lead to more complete response to postal questionnaires in observational cohort studies with repeated data collection and follow-up durations of around 2?years. PMID:23249323
Measuring Client Experiences in Maternity Care under Change: Development of a Questionnaire Based on the WHO Responsiveness Model
Background Maternity care is an integrated care process, which consists of different services, involves different professionals and covers different time windows. To measure performance of maternity care based on clients' experiences, we developed and validated a questionnaire. Methods and Findings We used the 8-domain WHO Responsiveness model, and previous materials to develop a self-report questionnaire. A dual study design was used for development and validation. Content validity of the ReproQ-version-0 was determined through structured interviews with 11 pregnant women (?28 weeks), 10 women who recently had given birth (?12 weeks), and 19 maternity care professionals. Structured interviews established the domain relevance to the women; all items were separately commented on. All Responsiveness domains were judged relevant, with Dignity and Communication ranking highest. Main missing topic was the assigned expertise of the health professional. After first adaptation, construct validity of the ReproQ-version-1 was determined through a web-based survey. Respondents were approached by maternity care organizations with different levels of integration of services of midwives and obstetricians. We sent questionnaires to 605 third trimester pregnant women (response 65%), and 810 women 6 weeks after delivery (response 55%). Construct validity was based on: response patterns; exploratory factor analysis; association of the overall score with a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), known group comparisons. Median overall ReproQ score was 3.70 (range 1�4) showing good responsiveness. The exploratory factor analysis supported the assumed domain structure and suggested several adaptations. Correlation of the VAS rating and overall ReproQ score (antepartum, postpartum) supported validity (r = 0.56; 0.59, p<0.001 Spearman's correlation coefficient). Pre-stated group comparisons confirmed the expected difference following a good vs. adverse birth outcome. Fully integrated organizations performed slightly better (median = 3.78) than less integrated organizations (median = 3.63; p<0.001). Participation rate of women with a low educational level and/or a non-western origin was low. Conclusions The ReproQ appears suitable for assessing quality of maternity care from the clients' perspective. Recruitment of disadvantaged groups requires additional non-digital approaches. PMID:25671310
Scheerhagen, Marisja; van Stel, Henk F.; Birnie, Erwin; Franx, Arie; Bonsel, Gouke J.
Lacunae in patient knowledge about oral anticoagulant treatment: results of a questionnaire survey.
Oral anticoagulation therapy is affected by the drug used, intensity of anticoagulation, physician's experience, patient compliance, laboratory testing and patient education. Patient education is a key factor in optimal anticoagulation and safety in patients on oral anticoagulant therapy. This study was done to assess the knowledge of patients regarding oral anticoagulant therapy in the outpatient setting. This prospective study was done over 2�months in 101 patients on outpatient oral anticoagulant therapy. A 20-point questionnaire on various aspects of oral anticoagulation therapy was administered to assess their knowledge. The answers were graded on a scale of 0-1. Scores were then added up to quantify the knowledge status in each patient. Descriptive statistics and Student's t test was used to analyse the data. The mean knowledge score among patients was 9.4/18 (52.2�%). More than half (52.8�%) of the patients had a score of <9. More than half (54.4�%) of the patients had adequate knowledge-(>80�% score-5.5/7) about the critical (must know) questions regarding OAT. Patients with age ?60�years had lower mean scores compared to those <60�years of age (p�=�0.028). Illiteracy was also associated (p�<�0.0001) with poor scores. There are significant lacunae in the knowledge about oral anticoagulation among patients on outpatient treatment. Older age and illiteracy were associated with poor knowledge among patients. More emphasis needs to be given to the vital aspect of patient education to make this therapy safer for patients. PMID:25825572
Joshua, Jisha K; Kakkar, Naveen
Construct validity, reliability, response rate, and association with disease activity of the quick disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand questionnaire in the assessment of rheumatoid arthritis.
Abstract Objective. First objective is to validate the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) and Quick DASH (QuickDASH) questionnaire in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients with functional upper extremity impairment. Next is to clarify which clinical factor is associating with QuickDASH using a large cohort of RA. Methods. The QuickDASH and DASH were applied to our 94 RA patients who underwent surgery for functional upper extremity impairment. Next, the QuickDASH was applied to our cohort of 5191 Japanese patients with RA. Results. In the first cohort of 94 RA patients, both QuickDASH and DASH displayed excellent reliability and validity. The response rate of patients < 65 and ? 65 years of age showed significant difference in the DASH but not in the QuickDASH. In the second cohort with 5191 RA patients, QuickDASH showed a high response rate (93%) and good to moderate correlation with Japanese version of the Health Assessment Questionnaire (r = 0.88) and disease activity score of 28 (DAS28, r = 0.53). Change in QuickDASH score and DAS28-based European League Against Rheumatism response showed significant correlation. Conclusion. QuickDASH seems suitable for evaluating upper extremity impairment, disability index, and disease control in a large cohort of RA patients including elderly patients. PMID:25065918
Ochi, Kensuke; Iwamoto, Takuji; Saito, Asami; Ikari, Katsunori; Toyama, Yoshiaki; Taniguchi, Atsuo; Yamanaka, Hisashi; Momohara, Shigeki
Refining Video Game Use Questionnaires for Research and Clinical Application: Detection of Problematic Response Sets
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Even when relatively infrequent, deviant response sets, such as defensive and careless responding, can have remarkably robust effects on individual and group data and thereby distort clinical evaluations and research outcomes. Given such potential adverse impacts and the widespread use of self-report measures when appraising addictions and�
Faust, Kyle A.; Faust, David; Baker, Aaron M.; Meyer, Joseph F.
Federal-State Environmental Programs: The State Perspective. A Compilation of Questionnaire Responses. Supplement to a Report to the Congress by the Comptroller General of the United States.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Summarized are responses to questionnaires prepared by the United States General Accounting Office (GAO) and mailed to state-level environmental agency administrators. Also included in this survey are state program directors responsible for administering the Clean Air Act; the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act; the Clean Water�
Comptroller General of the U.S., Washington, DC.
A survey of electric and hybrid vehicles simulation programs. Volume 2: Questionnaire responses
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
The data received in a survey conducted within the United States to determine the extent of development and capabilities of automotive performance simulation programs suitable for electric and hybrid vehicle studies are presented. The survey was conducted for the Department of Energy by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Volume 1 of this report summarizes and discusses the results contained in Volume 2.
Bevan, J.; Heimburger, D. A.; Metcalfe, M. A.
Guides & Reports for Questionnaire Design
Applied Research Program (ARP) staff use a variety of methods to develop and test questionnaires, including established Questionnaire Design Principles, empirical methods such as Cognitive Testing and psychometric methods such as Item Response Theory Modeling.
The Questionnaire for Urinary Incontinence Diagnosis (QUID): Validity and Responsiveness to Change in Women Undergoing Non-Surgical Therapies for Treatment of Stress Predominant Urinary Incontinence
Aims The Questionnaire for Urinary Incontinence Diagnosis (QUID), a 6-item urinary incontinence (UI) symptom questionnaire, was developed and validated to distinguish stress and urge UI. This study�s objective was to evaluate QUID validity and responsiveness when used as a clinical trial outcome measure. Methods Participants enrolled in a multi-center trial of non-surgical therapy (continence pessary, pelvic floor muscle training or combined) for stress-predominant UI completed baseline and 3-month diaries, the Urinary Distress Inventory (UDI) and QUID. Data from all treatment groups were pooled. QUID internal consistency (Cronbach�s ?) and convergent/discriminant validity (Pearson correlations) were evaluated. Responsiveness to change was assessed with 3-month score outcomes and distribution-based measurements. Results 444 women (mean age 50) were enrolled with stress (N=200) and mixed (N=244) UI; 344 had 3-month data. Baseline QUID Stress and Urge scores (both scaled 0-15, larger values indicating worse UI) were 8.4 � 3.2 and 4.5 � 3.3, respectively. Internal consistency of QUID Total, Stress and Urge scores was 0.75, 0.64 and 0.87, respectively. QUID Stress scores correlated moderately with UDI-Stress scores (r=0.68, p<0.0001) and diary stress UI episodes (r=0.41, p<0.0001). QUID Urge scores correlated moderately with UDI-Irritative scores (r=0.68, p<0.0001) and diary urge UI episodes (r=0.45, p<0.0001). 3-month QUID Stress and Urge scores improved (4.1 � 3.4 and 2.2 � 2.7, both p<0.0001). QUID Stress score Effect Size (1.3) and Standardized Response Mean (1.2) suggested a large change after therapy. Conclusion The QUID has acceptable psychometric characteristics and may be used as a UI outcome measure in clinical trials. PMID:19787711
Bradley, Catherine S.; Rahn, David D.; Nygaard, Ingrid E.; Barber, Matthew D.; Nager, Charles W.; Kenton, Kimberly S.; Siddiqui, Nazema Y.; Abel, Robert B.; Spino, Cathie; Richter, Holly E.
Determinants of patient satisfaction with hospital health care in psychiatry: results based on the SATISPSY-22 questionnaire
Background The aim of our study was to identify patient- and care-related factors that are associated with patients� satisfaction with psychiatric hospital care, using a specific, self-administered questionnaire based exclusively on the patient�s point of view: the Satisfaction with Psychiatry Care Questionnaire-22 (SATISPSY-22). Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted in the psychiatric departments of two French public university teaching hospitals. The data collected included sociodemographic information, clinical characteristics, care characteristics, and the SATISPSY-22. A multivariate analysis using multiple linear regressions was performed to determine the variables potentially associated with satisfaction levels. Results Two hundred seventy patients were enrolled in our study. Only one moderate association was found between satisfaction and sociodemographic characteristics: the personal experience dimension with age (?=0.15). Clinical improvement was moderately associated with higher global satisfaction (?=?0.15), higher satisfaction with quality of care (?=?0.19), and higher satisfaction with food (?=?0.18). Stronger associations with satisfaction were found for care characteristics, particularly the therapeutic alliance with all of the satisfaction dimensions (?, 0.20�0.43) except food, and for seclusion with global satisfaction (?=?0.33) and personal experience (?=?0.32). Patients with previous hospitalization also had a higher level of satisfaction with quality of care compared with patients who were admitted for the first time (?=?0.15). Conclusion This study has identified a number of potential determinants of satisfaction. The therapeutic relationship and seclusion were the most important features associated with a patient�s satisfaction. These factors might be amenable through intervention, which, in turn, might be expected to improve satisfaction, patients� management, and health outcomes in psychiatric hospitals. PMID:25368515
Zendjidjian, Xavier Y; Auquier, Pascal; Lan�on, Christophe; Loundou, Anderson; Parola, Nathalie; Faug�re, Melanie; Boyer, Laurent
Utility of the "Social Communication Questionnaire-Current" and "Social Responsiveness Scale" as Teacher-Report Screening Tools for Autism Spectrum Disorders
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Limited research exists regarding the role of teachers in screening for Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). The current study examined the use of the "Social Communication Questionnaire" (SCQ) and "Social Responsiveness Scale" (SRS) as completed by parents and teachers about school-age children from the Simons Simplex Collection. Using the�
Schanding, G. Thomas, Jr.; Nowell, Kerri P.; Goin-Kochel, Robin P.
Development of Canadian Recommendations for the Management of ANCA-Associated Vasculitides: Results of the National Needs Assessment Questionnaire
Objectives : To study variations in Canadian clinical practice patterns for the management of ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV) and identify points to consider for the development of national recommendations. Material and Methodology : A 30-item needs assessment questionnaire was sent to all members of the Canadian Vasculitis network (CanVasc), Canadian Rheumatology Association (CRA), Canadian Thoracic Society (CTS) and Canadian Society of Nephrology (CSN). Respondent characteristics, practice patterns, concerns and expectations were analyzed. Results : Among 132 physicians who followed at least 1 vasculitis patient and responded to the survey, 39% stated that they felt confident in their management of AAV. Several variations in practice were observed regarding diagnostic procedure, induction and maintenance treatments and use of biologics; some were due to logistic constraints (difficulties in access to some specific tests, drugs or care; lack of health care coverage for the costs). The top 5 topics for which recommendations are expected involve treatment for remission induction, maintenance, refractory disease, and relapse as well as biologics. Conclusion : Practice variations identified in this needs assessment survey will serve to formulate key questions for the development of CanVasc recommendations.
Famorca, Leilani; Twilt, Marinka; Barra, Lillian; Bakowsky, Volodko; Benseler, Susanne; Cabral, David; Carette, Simon; Dhindsa, Navjot; Fifi-Mah, Aurore; Goulet, Michelle; Khalidi, Nader; Khraishi, Majed; McGeoch, Lucy; Milman, Nataliya; Pineau, Christian; Shojania, Kam; Taylor-Gjevre, Regina; Towheed, Tanveer; Trudeau, Judith; Yacyshyn, Elaine; Liang, Patrick; Pagnoux, Christian
The reliability, validity and responsiveness of the Restless Legs Syndrome Quality of Life questionnaire (RLSQoL) in a trial population
Background The aim of this study was to determine the reliability, validity and responsiveness of the Restless Legs Syndrome Quality of Life questionnaire (RLSQoL) in a clinical trial setting. Methods Two matching, placebo-controlled, multinational studies assessing the effectiveness and safety of ropinirole for treating moderate-to-severe Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) formed the basis of this psychometric assessment. Validity and reliability were assessed using baseline data. Responsiveness was determined using longitudinal data collected at baseline and 12 weeks. Results A total of 547 subjects formed the baseline validation population; 519 were used for assessing responsiveness (n = 284/263 and 271/248 for both studies, respectively). Construct validity assessment confirmed that an overall life impact score could be calculated. All item-scale correlations were = 0.4, except items 1 (r = 0.36) and 5 (r = 0.35) in one study. Floor and ceiling effects were minimal. Cronbach's alpha values were 0.82 and 0.87, respectively, confirming internal consistency reliability. Correlations with the International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group's severity rating scale (International Restless Legs Scale; IRLS) were moderate (r = -0.68 and -0.67, respectively; p < 0.0001). The RLSQoL was able to discriminate between levels of sleep problems (p < 0.0001) and between levels of global health status determined by a Clinical Global Impression of severity (CGI-S) (p < 0.0001). Responsiveness was demonstrated by significant differences in overall life impact change scores between CGI improvement levels after 12 weeks (p < 0.0001). Conclusion The RLSQoL is a valid, reliable and responsive measure of quality of life for patients with RLS, in a clinical trial setting where group comparisons are anticipated. PMID:16329756
Abetz, Linda; Arbuckle, Robert; Allen, Richard P; Mavraki, Elena; Kirsch, Jeffrey
Academic Training of Medical Students in Transfusion Medicine, Hemotherapy, and Hemostasis: Results of a Questionnaire-Based Status Report in Germany
Summary Background As a consequence of the German Transfusion Act and the corresponding Hemotherapeutic Guidelines of the German Medical Association, the National Advisory Committee Blood approved a recommendation (votum 29) in 2003 to specify students� training in transfusion medicine, hemotherapy, and hemostasis. The objective of this study was to assess the current status of teaching in these fields. Methods A questionnaire-based evaluation was performed at the medical schools in Germany (n = 34). Responses were analyzed by descriptive criteria, except for weekly semester hours of teaching. Results Responses were obtained from 30 medical faculties (88%). Among them, 18 had conducted votum 29 (12 �completely�, 6 �essentially�), while 7 had done so only �in part� and 5 �not at all�. 13 of 30 sites (43%) reported that no faculty-related curriculum in transfusion medicine and hemostasis (hemotherapy) exists. At 28 of 30 medical schools (93%), teaching in transfusion medicine, hemotherapy, and hemostasis is integrated into cross-curricular topics of interdisciplinary programs, including lectures. The corresponding semester hours of teaching per week ranged from 0.5 to 12 h/week. Conclusion Votum 29 is incompletely established. Consequently, academic teaching in transfusion medicine, hemotherapy, and hemostasis requires structural and conceptual improvement to fulfill legal specifications and regulatory constraints. PMID:25254026
Scharf, R�diger E.; Burger, Reinhard
The Claustrophobia Questionnaire.
The content and psychometric properties of the Claustrophobia Questionnaire (CLQ) are described. An earlier version of the CLQ was developed to test the hypothesis that claustrophobia is comprised of two distinct but related fears--the fear of suffocation and the fear of restriction [J. Anxiety Disord. 7 (1993) 281.]. The scale was used to assess patients undergoing the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) procedure [J. Behav. Med. 21 (1998) 255.] and in participants with panic disorder [J. Abnorm. Psychol. 105 (1996) 146; Taylor, S., Rachman, S., & Radomsky, A. S. (1996). The prediction of panic: a comparison of suffocation false alarm and cognitive theories. Unpublished data.]. On the basis of these studies, we decided to revise and shorten the CLQ, collect normative data, and provide information on the scale's predictive and discriminant validity as well as its internal consistency and test-retest reliability. This was done through a set of four interconnected studies that included psychometric analyses of undergraduate and community adult questionnaire responses and behavioural testing. Results indicate that the CLQ has good predictive and discriminant validity as well as good internal consistency and test-retest reliability. The CLQ appears to be a reliable and sensitive measure of claustrophobia and its component fears. We encourage the use of the CLQ in a variety of clinical and research applications. The scale is provided in this paper for public use. PMID:11474815
Radomsky, A S; Rachman, S; Thordarson, D S; McIsaac, H K; Teachman, B A
Use of a web-based questionnaire in the Black Women's Health Study.
The authors assessed the utility and cost-effectiveness of using a World Wide Web-based questionnaire in a large prospective cohort study, the Black Women's Health Study (BWHS). In 1995, 59,000 African-American women were recruited into the BWHS through a paper questionnaire. Follow-up paper questionnaires have been mailed every 2 years since then. During the 2003, 2005, and 2007 questionnaire cycles, participants were given the option of completing a Web-based questionnaire. The cost of developing and processing a returned paper questionnaire was 4 times that of a returned Web questionnaire, primarily because of return postage costs and greater processing time for paper questionnaires. The proportion of respondents who completed a Web questionnaire doubled from 2003 to 2007, from 10.1% to 19.9%, but the characteristics of those completing the Web questionnaire remained the same. Web response was greatest at younger ages (20.9% of those aged <30 years) and declined with age to 3.6% among women aged 60 years or more. Web questionnaires were filled out more completely than paper questionnaires, regardless of the sensitivity of a question. The use of a Web questionnaire in the BWHS resulted in cost savings and more complete responses. Although there are advantages to using a Web questionnaire, the use of multiple means of soliciting questionnaire responses is still needed. PMID:20937635
Russell, Cordelia W; Boggs, Deborah A; Palmer, Julie R; Rosenberg, Lynn
The role of the nurse lecturer in the supervision of students' essays, projects and assignments: results of an all Wales questionnaire survey.
This study explores the role of the lecturer in nursing and midwifery education in the supervision of students' essays, projects and assignments. Three methods were used within the study; semi-structured interviews, questionnaires and focus groups. The results from the semi-structured interviews were used to develop a questionnaire which was distributed to the population of lecturers in nursing and midwifery education (n=285) within Wales. This article reports some of the key findings of the questionnaire survey. Lecturers report a directive style of supervision with a considerable amount of time being invested in the supervision process. The production of guidelines for good supervision practice is recommended as a way of providing consistent and fair supervision for students. PMID:12384031
Mansell, Ian; Bennett, Glynis; Torrance, Colin; Fairbairn, Gavin
The Relation of the Response Distribution to Self-Report Questionnaire Items and Cognitive Ability among School-Aged Children
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
This proposed research is part of an on-going line of research of developing questionnaire instruments for use at the elementary school level. Because field trials often use child self-report as outcome measures and sometimes determine implementation fidelity using such measures, evaluation of the validity of the use of such measures with�
Stapleton, Laura M.; Reiner, Laura S.; Aluvathingal, Anu J.
Alliance Sleep Questionnaire (ASQ) Summary Report The information below is a summary of the patient's selfreported responses
Alliance Sleep Questionnaire (ASQ) Summary Report The information below is a summary Ethnicity: Hispanic or Latino Race: American Indian or Alaska Native BMI: 22.7 Sleep History: Reported Sleep Complaint(s): Previous sleep diagnosis: Current treatment(s) for sleep issues: Snoring
Kay, Mark A.
Validation of a food-frequency questionnaire to assess dietary intakes in cancer studies in Italy results for specific nutrients
The validity of a 77-item food-frequency questionnaire (FFQ) developed for a multicenter case-control study on diet and cancer in Italy was assessed. Trained interviewers administered the same FFQ to 452 volunteers from three Italian provinces (Pordenone, Genoa, and Forli) completed in two different seasons, at an interval of 3 to 10 months. For 395 (130 males, 265 females; median age
Adriano Decarli; Silvia Franceschi; Monica Ferraroni; Patrizia Gnagnarella; Maria Teresa Parpinel; Carlo La Vecchia; Eva Negri; Simonetta Salvini; Fabio Falcini; Attilio Giacosa
This study gives results of the first phase of the 12-18 year old Turkish students' norm study of The Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire (MSLQ), which deveoped by Pintrich, Smith, Garcia & McKeachie (1993). The scale was administrated to 1114 students from 3 primary schools and 3 high schools in Ankara in Turkish language, science, mathematics and social science courses.
�zcan Erkan AKG�N; Ebru Kili� �AKMAK; Funda DEMIREL
The Turkish Adaptation Study of Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire (MSLQ) for 12-18 Year Old Children: Results of Confirmatory Factor Analysis
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
This study gives results of the first phase of the 12-18 year old Turkish students' norm study of The Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire (MSLQ), which developed by Pintrich, Smith, Garcia & McKeachie (1993). The scale was administrated to 1114 students from 3 primary schools and 3 high schools in Ankara in Turkish language, science,�
Karadeniz, Sirin; Buyukozturk, Sener; Akgun, Ozcan Erkan; Cakmak, Ebru Kilic; Demirel, Funda
The Depression Coping Questionnaire.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
College students (N=396), chronic pain patients (N=319), and schizophrenic veterans (N=43) completed the Depression Coping Questionnaire (DCQ) and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Factor analysis of the DCQ identified eleven coping responses: social support, problem solving, self-blame/escape, aggression, indulgence, activities, medication,�
Kleinke, Chris L.
Tobacco Smoking Status as Assessed by Oral Questionnaire Results 30% Under-reporting by Adult Males in Rural India: A Confirmatory Comparison by Exhaled Breath Carbon Monoxide Analysis
Background: The authenticity and true status of tobacco use, especially in the form of smoking among the patient clientele is always a matter of concern for their physicians. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to assess the authenticity of self-reported habit of tobacco smoking among a population sample of male respondents in rural India. Methods: Respondents were asked to complete oral questionnaires that assessed their status of tobacco smoking (if any) as well as duration of tobacco smoking, type of tobacco smoking, and frequency of tobacco smoking. Subsequently, exhaled breath carbon monoxide analysis was performed to detect their amounts of exhaled carbon monoxide. Results: In 175 respondents, the Smoke Check color indicators were significantly different (P < 0.0001) in the respondents who were diagnosed smokers per oral questionnaires (n = 92) versus diagnosed nonsmokers per oral questionnaires (n = 83). The probability statistics of authenticity of oral questionnaires for assessing smoking status showed that self-reporting was only 75% sensitive and 76% specific with 80% positive predictive value and 70% negative predictive value. Conclusion: True status of tobacco smoking with exhaled breath carbon monoxide analysis can be an easy clinical maneuver with community health screening and health promotion implications among patient populations in rural India. PMID:25374853
Aggarwal, Pradeep; Varshney, Saurabh; Kandpal, Sunil D.; Gupta, Divya
Effect of questionnaire length, personalisation and reminder type on response rate to a complex postal survey: a randomised controlled trial
of evidence to public health is limited. Much of it derives from the fields of marketing and education [1], and research in the health field has generally focused on the health care setting and specific target groups such as doctors and patients [8] rather... in the questionnaires. Acknowledgements This paper was written on behalf of the iConnect consortium (http://www. iconnect.ac.uk; Christian Brand, Fiona Bull, Ashley Cooper, Andy Day, Nanette Mutrie, David Ogilvie, Jane Powell, John Preston and Harry Rutter). The i...
Sahlqvist, Shannon; Song, Yena; Bull, Fiona; Adams, Emma; Preston, John; Ogilvie, David
Development of the Grief Experience Questionnaire.
The development of the Grief Experience Questionnaire (GEQ) is reported. This questionnaire is an instrument for measuring various components of grief, including somatic reactions, general grief reactions, search for explanation, loss of social support, stigmatization, guilt, responsibility, shame, rejection, self-destructive behavior, and reactions to a unique form of death. Initial results with the GEQ suggest its potential to differentiate grief reactions experienced by suicide survivors from those experienced by survivors of accidental death, unexpected natural death, and expected natural death. Conclusions support its use in redressing common methodological criticisms of suicide survivor research. Six additional benefits derived from use of this instrument are discussed. PMID:2749862
Barrett, T W; Scott, T B
Development of new physical activity and sedentary behavior change self-efficacy questionnaires using item response modeling
Background Theoretically, increased levels of physical activity self-efficacy (PASE) should lead to increased physical activity, but few studies have reported this effect among youth. This failure may be at least partially attributable to measurement limitations. In this study, Item Response Modeling (IRM) was used to develop new physical activity and sedentary behavior change self-efficacy scales. The validity of the new scales was compared with accelerometer assessments of physical activity and sedentary behavior. Methods New PASE and sedentary behavior change (TV viewing, computer video game use, and telephone use) self-efficacy items were developed. The scales were completed by 714, 6th grade students in seven US cities. A limited number of participants (83) also wore an accelerometer for five days and provided at least 3 full days of complete data. The new scales were analyzed using Classical Test Theory (CTT) and IRM; a reduced set of items was produced with IRM and correlated with accelerometer counts per minute and minutes of sedentary, light and moderate to vigorous activity per day after school. Results The PASE items discriminated between high and low levels of PASE. Full and reduced scales were weakly correlated (r = 0.18) with accelerometer counts per minute after school for boys, with comparable associations for girls. Weaker correlations were observed between PASE and minutes of moderate to vigorous activity (r = 0.09 � 0.11). The uni-dimensionality of the sedentary scales was established by both exploratory factor analysis and the fit of items to the underlying variable and reliability was assessed across the length of the underlying variable with some limitations. The reduced sedentary behavior scales had poor reliability. The full scales were moderately correlated with light intensity physical activity after school (r = 0.17 to 0.33) and sedentary behavior (r = -0.29 to -0.12) among the boys, but not for girls. Conclusion New physical activity and sedentary behavior change self-efficacy scales have fewer items than classical test theory derived alternatives and have reasonable validity for boys, but more work is needed to develop comparable scales for girls. Fitting the items to a underlying variable could be useful in tailoring interventions to this scale. PMID:19335875
Jago, Russell; Baranowski, Tom; Watson, Kathy; Bachman, Christine; Baranowski, Janice C; Thompson, Debbe; Hern�ndez, Arthur E; Venditti, Elizabeth; Blackshear, Tara; Moe, Esther
Effects of Familiarity with Sender on Response Rate of Mail Questionnaires and Their Implications for Program Evaluation.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
The effects on response rate of familiarity with survey sender was investigated in a study involving the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences faculty. The study was part of a mail survey of 3,467 citrus producers in 23 counties in Florida. Half (1,790) of the producers on the agricultural agent's mailing lists were�
Taylor, C. L.; And Others
Mobile Emergency Response Water Treatment Technology Results
When natural disasters like hurricanes, floods and earthquakes occur, safe drinking water can be compromised, limited or unavailable. Under such situations, communities have emergency response plans. One of many options for providing safe drinking water during emergency situati...
Sharing Leadership Responsibilities Results in Achievement Gains
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Collective, not individual, leadership in schools has a greater impact on student achievement; when principals and teachers share leadership responsibilities, student achievement is higher; and schools having high student achievement also display a vision for student achievement and teacher growth. Those are just a few of the insights into school�
Armistead, Lew
Questionnaire Development Resources
Resources made available by DCEG for use in developing study questionnaires. Includes questionnaires reviewed and approved by DCEG�s Technical Evaluation Committee, as well as non-reviewed questionnaire modules to be used as starting points for development.
Implementation of an Adaptive Questionnaire
An adaptive on-line questionnaire, named EDUFORM 1 , is based on Bayesian statistical techniques that both optimize the number of propositions presented to each respondent and create an individual learner profile. Adaptive graphical user interface is generated partially (propositions of the questionnaire, collaborative actions and links to resources) and computational part totally with Bayesian computational techniques. The preliminary results show
Petri Nokelainen; Markku Niemivirta; Jaakko Kurhila; Miikka Miettinen; Henry Tirri
Why do psychotherapists participate in psychotherapy research and why not? Results of the Attitudes to Psychotherapy Research Questionnaire with a sample of experienced German psychotherapists.
Abstract Objective: Psychotherapy research needs to convince psychotherapists to contribute their time and effort to participate. The present paper describes the development and first results of the Attitudes to Psychotherapy Research Questionnaire (APRQ). Method: The APRQ and additional qualitative questions about exclusion criteria for participation were filled out by a sample of 365 therapists (psychoanalytic, psychodynamic, and cognitive-behavioral) during an Internet-based research survey. Results: A principle component analysis yielded six factors: Benefits, Damage, Legitimation, Self-doubt, Effectiveness Doubt and External Reasons. Age, external reasons and benefits predicted willingness to participate independent of therapeutic school. Discussion: Results show a changing trend to more positive attitudes to psychotherapy research. To be willing to participate in future research, therapists expected high quality designs, financial compensation, and personal gains. PMID:25047604
Taubner, Svenja; Klasen, Jennifer; Munder, Thomas
[The state of antimicrobial prophylaxis for holmium laser enucleation of the prostate : HoLEP and the results of a questionnaire survey].
Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) has been established as a procedure for the treatment of patients with benign prostate hyperplasia, instead of transurethral resection of prostate (TURP). To determine the appropriate antimicrobial prophylaxis for the prevention of perioperative urinary tract infection following HoLEP we sent a questionnaire to 79 institutes belonging to the Japanese Urological Association. We surveyed 1) the performance of HoLEP, 2) number of HoLEP performed in 2009, 3) antimicrobial agents and the term of the administration for prophylaxis, 4) rate of perioperative infections, and 5) usage of other antimicrobial prophylaxis in HoLEP, as compared with in TUR-P. We received answers from 59 institutes (74. 9%). We examined 43 responses, which were obtained from executive members who performed more than eleven cases of HoLEP in 2009. Thirty-one of these institutes (72.1%) indicated parenteral antibiotics ; three of them adopted oral antibiotics, and nine of them added oral antibiotics following parenteral antibiotics. In 40 of them (93.0%), the rate of perioperative infections was reported to be fewer than 5%. Twenty-seven of them (62. 7%) adopted the same schedule for the prophylaxis in both HoLEP and TUR-P. Eleven of them indicated shorter antimicrobial usage in HoLEP than in TUR-P. Ten of the eleven institutes reported that the rate of perioperative infections in HoLEP had been lower than in TUR-P. Our questionnaire survey demonstrated that shorter antimicrobial prophylaxis might be possible in HoLEP than in TUR-P. PMID:22089150
Ishikawa, Kiyohito; Maruyama, Takahiro; Kusaka, Mamoru; Shiroki, Ryoichi; Hoshinaga, Kiyotaka
Response Rate and Response Quality of Internet-Based Surveys: An Experimental Study
This study examines the effect of the timing of follow-ups, different incentives, length, and presentation of the questionnaire on the response rate and response quality in an online experimental setting. The results show that short questionnaires have a higher response rate, although long questionnaires still generate a surprisingly high response. Furthermore, vouchers seem to be the most effective incentive in
Elisabeth Deutskens; Ko de Ruyter; Martin Wetzels; Paul Oosterveld
Paper to Electronic Questionnaires: Effects on Structured Questionnaire Forms
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
With the use of computers, paper questionnaires are being replaced by electronic questionnaires. The formats of traditional paper questionnaires have been found to effect a subject's rating. Consequently, the transition from paper to electronic format can subtly change results. The research presented begins to determine how electronic questionnaire formats change subjective ratings. For formats where subjects used a flow chart to arrive at their rating, starting at the worst and middle ratings of the flow charts were the most accurate but subjects took slightly more time to arrive at their answers. Except for the electronic paper format, starting at the worst rating was the most preferred. The paper and electronic paper versions had the worst accuracy. Therefore, for flowchart type of questionnaires, flowcharts should start at the worst rating and work their way up to better ratings.
Trujillo, Anna C.
Physical Activity Questionnaire Search Results
Skip to Main Content at the National Institutes of Health | www.cancer.gov Print Page E-mail Page Search: Please wait while this form is being loaded.... Home Browse by Resource Type Browse by Area of Research Research Networks Funding Information About
Physical Activity Questionnaire Search Results
California Health Interview Survey 2005 A05_C7 The next questions are about physical activities or exercise you may do in your free time for at least 10 minutes, other than walking. First, think about activities that take moderate physical effort, such as bicycling, swimming, dancing, and gardening. During the last 7 days, did you do any moderate physical activities in your free time for at least 10 minutes, other than walking?
Physical Activity Questionnaire Search Results
Allied Dunbar Survey of Activity and Health 18a During the time from when you left school up to the present, have you, at any time, walked for 2 miles or more on a regular basis, for a period of at least 2 years?
Development of an objective questionnaire to assess perception, concern, and knowledge of, and attention and response to, the threat of nuclear war
In addition to the subject objective, the relationship of specified personality variables (i.e., trait anxiety, locus of control, response tendency towards threat, and denial) to behavioral and psychological responses to the threat of nuclear war were assessed. The quantitative questionnaire, titled the Nuclear Reaction Scale, was composed of items selected from issues discussed in the psychological literature on the threat of nuclear war. These issues included: psychic numbing, cognitive reality, perceptions of likelihood and survival, nuclear illusions, and attention to the threat of nuclear war. A standardization sample of 360 college students was administered the Nuclear Reaction Scale, Trait Anxiety Scale, Internal-External Locus of Control Scale, Facilitation-Inhibition Scale, and Haan Denial Scale. Three additional subsamples, identified as Military, Nuclear Freeze, and Church, were given the Nuclear Reaction Scale to assess the validity of the scale. A factor analysis of the Nuclear Reaction Scale indicated a nine-factor solution that described issues such as concern perceptions, likelihood, survivability, and control over the threat of nuclear war. A number of strong relationships existed between computed factors on the Nuclear Reaction Scale. Demographic comparisons found significant differences related to sex and political affiliation.
Kulman, I.R.
[Dimensions of parental rearing styles in alcohol dependent patients: first results of the questionnaire on parental attitudes and rearing practices (FEPS)].
To date no instrument for the assessment of parenting styles is available in the German -language area that has been validated in patients with addictive disorders. Therefore the aim of this study was the confirmatory evaluation of the factor structure of the Questionnaire on Parental Attitudes and Rearing Practices (FEPS) in 186 alcohol dependent patients. The model as proposed by the test developers with the 4 factors Care, Autonomy, Low Punishment, and Low Material Reinforcement showed acceptable fit when residual correlations were allowed (mother: ?(2)/df=1,92, RMSEA=0,07, TLI=0,79; father: ?(2)/df=1,75, RMSEA=0,07, TLI=0,82). All factors showed sufficient factor reliabilities as well as good to very good internal consistencies. Factor loadings, discriminations and difficulties of the indicators could be regarded as good, with the exception of 2 items. These results indicate the factorial validity of the FEPS in patients with alcohol dependence. PMID:23446826
Lotzin, Annett; Kriston, Levente; Richter-Appelt, Hertha; Leichsenring, Irina; Ramsauer, Brigitte; Sch�fer, Ingo
Conversion of Questionnaire Data
During the survey, respondents are asked to provide qualitative answers (well, adequate, needs improvement) on how well material control and accountability (MC&A) functions are being performed. These responses can be used to develop failure probabilities for basic events performed during routine operation of the MC&A systems. The failure frequencies for individual events may be used to estimate total system effectiveness using a fault tree in a probabilistic risk analysis (PRA). Numeric risk values are required for the PRA fault tree calculations that are performed to evaluate system effectiveness. So, the performance ratings in the questionnaire must be converted to relative risk values for all of the basic MC&A tasks performed in the facility. If a specific material protection, control, and accountability (MPC&A) task is being performed at the 'perfect' level, the task is considered to have a near zero risk of failure. If the task is performed at a less than perfect level, the deficiency in performance represents some risk of failure for the event. As the degree of deficiency in performance increases, the risk of failure increases. If a task that should be performed is not being performed, that task is in a state of failure. The failure probabilities of all basic events contribute to the total system risk. Conversion of questionnaire MPC&A system performance data to numeric values is a separate function from the process of completing the questionnaire. When specific questions in the questionnaire are answered, the focus is on correctly assessing and reporting, in an adjectival manner, the actual performance of the related MC&A function. Prior to conversion, consideration should not be given to the numeric value that will be assigned during the conversion process. In the conversion process, adjectival responses to questions on system performance are quantified based on a log normal scale typically used in human error analysis (see A.D. Swain and H.E. Guttmann, 'Handbook of Human Reliability Analysis with Emphasis on Nuclear Power Plant Applications,' NUREG/CR-1278). This conversion produces the basic event risk of failure values required for the fault tree calculations. The fault tree is a deductive logic structure that corresponds to the operational nuclear MC&A system at a nuclear facility. The conventional Delphi process is a time-honored approach commonly used in the risk assessment field to extract numerical values for the failure rates of actions or activities when statistically significant data is absent.
Powell, Danny H [ORNL] [ORNL; Elwood Jr, Robert H [ORNL] [ORNL
Appendix B: Questionnaire B1: Questionnaire
. Where was the study child born? City ST ___ ___ Country 6. What is the child's sex? Male Female 7. HowAppendix B: Questionnaire B1: Questionnaire #12;Do not write in this space To protect your child/her as the "study child". This page, which includes his/her personal information, will be separated from the rest
[Psychometric properties of the French version of Karasek's "Job Content Questionnaire" and its scales measuring psychological pressures, decisional latitude and social support: the results of the SUMER].
Psychosocial factors at work have been found to be associated with having potential risk for adverse health effects. The main instrument used to measure these factors and their impact is the Job Content Questionnaire (JCQ) by Karasek. The objective of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the French version of the JCQ, and in particular to assess its internal coherence and consistency, as well as the factorial and convergent validity of psychological demands, decisional latitude and social support at work based upon the SUMER survey, which was the first French national survey of its kind to include the JCQ. The study was based on a sample of 24, 486 workers who answered the JCQ in 2003 (96.5% response rate). Internal consistency was satisfactory, as Cronbach's alpha coefficients were observed as being higher than 0.65. Confirmatory factor analysis showed that the best model was composed of 5 latent variables: demands and pressures, the two dimensions of latitude (utilization of skills and autonomous decision-making), and the two dimensions of support (from supervisors and from colleagues). Convergent validity tests confirmed the expected association with key variables, which were: age, work status, sector of activity, occupation, job satisfaction, perception of job stress, and intent to change job. This study demonstrated satisfactory psychometric properties of Karasek's JCQ scales for the French working population. PMID:17094683
Niedhammer, I; Chastang, J F; Gendrey, L; David, S; Degioanni, S
I like it when my partner holds my hand: development of the Responses and Attitudes to Support during Pain questionnaire (RASP)
Social support can have beneficial effects on psychological and physiological well-being. During acute bodily pain, however, the effects of social support on pain are mixed. This variability may be due to the multifaceted nature of both pain and social support, as well as individual differences. In this paper, we present the development, psychometric assessment, and initial validation of the first self-report measure designed to address this variability in the general population; the Responses and Attitudes to Support during Pain questionnaire (RASP). The RASP includes questions on social support from the romantic partner as well as healthcare professionals (HCPs) and addresses different types of social support and pain responses. The development and validation of the RASP comprised four studies. In Study 1, a preliminary RASP version was completed by 179 healthy individuals regarding any type of acute pain. In Study 2, the reduced RASP was completed by 256 women with experiences of menstrual pain. Principal component analysis indicated a 22-item solution with five underlying dimensions reflecting General Partner Support, Emotional Support from HCPs, Anxiety in the Context of HCPs, Pain Behaviors during Partner Support, and Distraction by the Partner. Construct validity was assessed using a measure of adult attachment style. The RASP showed good validity and test-retest reliability. In Study 3, the 5-factor model received initial support through confirmatory factor analysis in a new sample of 120 individuals with recent musculoskeletal pain. Study 4 provided additional validation of the RASP in a sample of 180 individuals responding in reference to acute back pain. Overall, the RASP is a valid and reliable measure for assessing individual differences in attitudes and responses to social support in relation to acute pain. PMID:25285083
Krah�, Charlotte; Paloyelis, Yannis; Sambo, Chiara F.; Fotopoulou, Aikaterini
[Skin protection at work in Croatian hairdressers (results of the EvaHair questionnaire developed within the EU project "SafeHair")].
Hairdressers are under a high occupational risk of developing various health disorders, particularly regarding the skin. The "SafeHair" project was implemented from 2010 to 2012, with the aim to develop health and safety standards for the prevention of occupational skin diseases in hairdressing. Croatian hairdressers participated in the project. The aim of this work was to establish the actual status of skin protection in Croatian hairdressers. Data were collected by the EvaHair questionnaire developed within the "SafeHair" project. A total of 213 questionnaires were analysed. The sample comprised 133 (64%) salon owners, 46 (22%) employees, and 31 (14%) trainees. Thirty-six (17%) subjects confirmed the presence of skin disorders in their salons in the last 3 years, and almost all of the subjects (98%) considered the prevention of occupational skin diseases important. We found a high proportion (from 40% to 50%) of non-answered questions about risk assessment. Protective gloves were mostly used when exposed to chemicals (88%), but rarely for hair washing (13%). They were available to the majority of subjects (95%), but 32% of subjects had trouble wearing them. Hairdressers with over 30 years of working experience used gloves for washing and cutting hair more frequently than those with less than 30 years of experience (p<0.05). Education on skin protection was more often provided (39%) than education on the protection of the respiratory (15%) and musculosceletal (18%) systems. A high proportion of subjects needed assistance with interpreting laws, regulations, and information about products (57%), as well as in the implementation of risk assessment methods (49%). The results indicate a need for further education on the health risks and the implementation of protective measures. This should be carried out during vocational education and later in the form of permanent education. PMID:23819939
Kujund�i? Brkulj, Marija; Macan, Jelena
Psychometric evaluation of the SF-36 (v.2) questionnaire in a probability sample of Brazilian households: results of the survey Pesquisa Dimens�es Sociais das Desigualdades (PDSD), Brazil, 2008
Background In Brazil, despite the growing use of SF-36 in different research environments, most of the psychometric evaluation of the translated questionnaire was from studies with samples of patients. The purpose of this paper is to examine if the Brazilian version of SF-36 satisfies scaling assumptions, reliability and validity required for valid interpretation of the SF-36 summated ratings scales in the general population. Methods 12,423 individuals and their spouses living in 8,048 households were selected from a stratified sample of all permanent households along the country to be interviewed using the Brazilian SF-36 (version 2). Psychometric tests were performed to evaluate the scaling assumptions based on IQOLA methodology. Results Data quality was satisfactory with questionnaire completion rate of 100%. The ordering of the item means within scales clustered as hypothesized. All item-scale correlations exceeded the suggested criteria for reliability with success rate of 100% and low floor and ceiling effects. All scales reached the criteria for group comparison and factor analysis identified two principal components that jointly accounted for 67.5% of the total variance. Role emotional and vitality were strongly correlated with physical and mental components, respectively, while social functioning was moderately correlated with both components. Role physical and mental health scales were, respectively, the most valid measures of the physical and mental health component. In the comparisons between groups that differed by the presence or absence of depression, subjects who reported having the disease had lower mean scores in all scales and mental health scale discriminated best between the two groups. Among those healthy and with one, two or three and more chronic illness, the average scores were inverted related to the number of diseases. Body pain, general health and vitality were the most discriminating scales between healthy and diseased groups. Higher scores were associated with individuals of male sex, age below 40 years old and high schooling. Conclusions The Brazilian version of SF-36 performed well and the findings suggested that it is a reliable and valid measure of health related quality of life among the general population as well as a promising measure for research on health inequalities in Brazil. PMID:21812986
Development and Preliminary Validation of Chinese Preschoolers� Eating Behavior Questionnaire
Background The objective of this study was to develop a questionnaire for caregivers to assess the eating behavior of Chinese preschoolers. Methods To assess children�s eating behaviors, 152 items were derived from a broad review of the literature related to epidemiology surveys and the assessment of children�s eating behaviors. All of these items were reviewed by 50 caregivers of preschoolers and 10 experienced pediatricians. Seventy-seven items were selected for use in a primary questionnaire. After conducting an exploratory factor analysis and a variability analysis on the data from 313 preschoolers used to evaluate this primary questionnaire, we deleted 39 of these 77 items. A Chinese Preschoolers� Eating Behavior Questionnaire (CPEBQ) was finally established from the remaining 38 items. The structure of this questionnaire was explored by factor analysis, and its reliability, validity and discriminative ability were evaluated with data collected from caregivers of 603 preschoolers. Results The CPEBQ consisted of 7 dimensions and 38 items. The 7 dimensions were food fussiness, food responsiveness, eating habit, satiety responsiveness, exogenous eating, emotional eating and initiative eating. The Cronbach�s ? coefficient for the questionnaire was 0.92, and the test-retest reliability was 0.72. There were significant differences between the scores of normal-weight, overweight and obese preschoolers when it was referred to food fussiness, food responsiveness, eating habits, satiety responsiveness and emotional eating (p<0.05). Differences in caregiver�s education levels also had significant effects on scores for food fussiness, eating habits and exogenous eating (p<0.05). Conclusions The CPEBQ satisfies the conditions of reliability and validity, in accordance with psychometric demands. The questionnaire can be employed to evaluate the characteristics of Chinese preschoolers� eating behaviors; therefore, it can be used in child health care practice and research. PMID:24520359
Zhang, Yuhai; Wang, Baoxi; Sun, Lijun; Shang, Lei
Pruritus of patients with atopic dermatitis in daily life and therapeutic effects experienced by them: Results of a web-based questionnaire survey.
It is important to recognize pruritic occasions/conditions and how their treatment is effective in soothing pruritus in patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) to facilitate patient communication and improve patient instructions in a typical clinical setting. For this purpose, we conducted a web-based questionnaire survey. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. PMID:25421804
Takeuchi, S; Oba, J; Esaki, H; Furue, M
Quality of health care and patient satisfaction in liver disease: The development and preliminary results of the QUOTE-Liver questionnaire
BACKGROUND: Consensus on how to adequately measure patient satisfaction with health care is limited, and has led to the development of many questionnaires with various methodological problems. The objective of this study was to develop a liver disease- and care-specific patient satisfaction instrument on the basis of previously tested methodology in patient satisfaction measurement, the so called QUOTE- series: Quality
Jolie J Gutteling; Robert A de Man; Busschbach van J. J; Anne-Sophie E Darlington
Twenty-four-hour recall, knowledge-attitude-practice questionnaires, and direct observations of sanitary practices: a comparative study
Although responses to 24-hour recall and knowledge�attitude�practice questionnaires are commonly used in water�sanitation studies as surrogates for direct observation of behaviour, the validity of this approach is questionable. We therefore compared questionnaire data with those obtained by direct observation of practices related to water storage, handwashing, and defecation among 247 families in urban Dhaka, Bangladesh. Analysis of the results indicates that accord between the replies to the questionnaires and the data collected by direct observation was poor and that the responses to the two questionnaires were often contradictory. Significant disagreements between the results of questionnaires and observations arose usually because desirable practices were over-reported by the respondents. The results of the study suggest that in urban Bangladesh 24-hour recall and knowledge�attitude�practice questionnaires should not be used as proxies for direct observation of hygiene practices. PMID:3496987
Stanton, B. F.; Clemens, J. D.; Aziz, K. M. A.; Rahman, M.
This data set includes responses for 459 descriptive questionnaires. The Descriptive Questionnaire was used to enumerate individuals within a household for sampling purposes (basis for selection of sample individual), to identify general characteristics of the living quarters and...
Psychometric properties and responsiveness of the EORTC Quality of Life Questionnaire (QLQ-C30) in patients with breast, ovarian and lung cancer
The QLQ-C30, a health-related quality of life questionnaire developed for use in patients with cancer, has been previously validated in patients with lung cancer and head and neck cancer. In this study, further validation was carried out for 535 patients, including patients with breast cancer (n=143) and ovarian cancer (n=111) for whom there is no previously published validation, as well
D. Osoba; B. Zee; J. Pater; D. Warr; L. Kaizer; J. Latreille
The Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire, body mass index, and responses to sweet and salty fatty foods: a twin study of genetic and environmental associations1-3
Background: The relation between body weight and energy-dense foods remains unclear. Objective: We estimated the effects of genetic and environmental factorsoncognitiveandemotionalaspectsofdietingbehavior,body massindex(BMI),andresponsestofattyfoodsandontheirrelations. Design: A total of 1326 adult twin persons (aged 17-82 y; 17% M and 83% F) from the United Kingdom and Finland completed the revised version of the Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire (TFEQ- R18)andreportedthelikinganduse-frequencyof4sweet-and-fatty and salty-and-fatty food items (6
Kaisu Keskitalo; Hely Tuorila; Tim D Spector; Lynn F Cherkas; Antti Knaapila; Jaakko Kaprio; Karri Silventoinen; Markus Perola
Electronic pain questionnaires: A randomized, crossover comparison with paper questionnaires for chronic pain assessment
Electronic questionnaires for pain assessment are becoming increasingly popular. There have been no published reports to establish the equivalence or psychometric properties of common pain questionnaires administered via desktop computers. This study compared responses to paper (P) and touch screen electronic (E) versions of the Short-Form McGill Pain Questionnaire (SF-MPQ) and Pain Disability Index (PDI), while examining the role of
Andrew J Cook; David A Roberts; Michael D Henderson; Lisa C Van Winkle; Dania C Chastain; Robin J Hamill-Ruth
PTSD QUESTIONNAIRE Participant's Name _____________________________________
PTSD QUESTIONNAIRE Participant's Name _____________________________________ Instructions a bit Extremely 1. Repeated, disturbing memories, thoughts, or images of a stressful military experience from the past? 2. Repeated disturbing dreams of a stressful military experience from the past? 3
New Mexico, University of
Basics of Developing Questionnaires
NSDL National Science Digital Library
Whether developing questions for questionnaires or interviews or focus groups, there are certain guidelines that help to ensure that respondents provide information that is useful and can later be analyzed. This resource offers advice on developing questions for interviews or focus groups. It contains basics conducting the interviews, providing directions to respondents as well as guidelines for composing the content and wording of the questionnaire. This resource is aimed for use in workshops/conferences and is intended for novice evaluators.
Carter McNamara
Nonlinear fundamental photothermal response: experimental results for tungsten
Nonlinear fundamental photothermal response: experimental results for tungsten A. Salnicka,*, J structures containing a tungsten layer is presented. Two sets of wafers, one with a very rough tungsten overlayer surface and another with a smooth polished tungsten surface have been studied. It is shown
Mandelis, Andreas
The inclusion of �then-test� questions in post-test questionnaires alters post-test responses: a randomized study of bias in health program evaluation
Objectives��Program evaluations are frequently based on �then-test� data, i.e., pre-test collected in retrospect. While the application\\u000a of the then-test has practical advantages, little is known about the validity of then-test data. Because of the collection\\u000a of then-test in close proximity to post-test questions, this study was aimed at exploring whether the presence of then-test\\u000a questions in post-test questionnaires influenced subjects�
Sandra NolteGerald; Gerald R. Elsworth; Andrew J. Sinclair; Richard H. Osborne
NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH Diet History Questionnaire Today's date: MONTH DAY YEAR |___|___| 0 0 1 1 2 2 3 3 4 5 6 7 8 01 Jan 02 Feb 03 Mar 04 Apr 05 May 06 Jun 07 Jul 08 Aug 09 Sep 10 Oct 11 Nov 12
Questionnaire typography and production.
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. PMID:15677172
Gray, M
Review of bubble detector response characteristics and results from space.
A passive neutron-bubble dosemeter (BD), developed by Bubble Technology Industries, has been used for space applications. Both the bubble detector-personal neutron dosemeter and bubble detector spectrometer have been studied at ground-based facilities in order to characterise their response due to neutrons, heavy ion particles and protons. This technology was first used during the Canadian-Russian collaboration aboard the Russian satellite BION-9, and subsequently on other space missions, including later BION satellites, the space transportation system, Russian MIR space station and International Space Station. This paper provides an overview of the experiments that have been performed for both ground-based and space studies in an effort to characterise the response of these detectors to various particle types in low earth orbit and presents results from the various space investigations. PMID:21890528
Lewis, B J; Smith, M B; Ing, H; Andrews, H R; Machrafi, R; Tomi, L; Matthews, T J; Veloce, L; Shurshakov, V; Tchernykh, I; Khoshooniy, N
Preferences regarding Genetic Research Results: Comparing Veterans and Nonveterans Responses
Objective Communicating genetic research results to participants presents ethical challenges. Our objectives were to examine participants� preferences in receiving future genetic research results and to compare preferences reported by veteran and nonveterans participants. Methods Secondary analysis was performed on data collected in 2000�2004 from 1,575 consent forms signed by Mexican-American participants enrolled in 2 genetic family studies (GFS) in San Antonio: The Family Investigation of Nephropathy and Diabetes (FIND) and the Extended FIND (EFIND). The consent forms for these studies contained multiple-choice questions to examine participants� preferences about receiving their (1) clinical lab results and (2) future genetic research results. The FIND and EFIND databases had information on subjects� demographic characteristics and some selected clinical variables. We identified veterans using the Veterans Health Administration's (VHA's) centralized data repository. We compared veterans� and nonveterans� preferences using Student's t test for continuous variables and ?2 test for discrete variables. A logistic regression analyzed subjects� preference for receiving their research results, controlling for other socio-demographic and clinical variables. Results The sample included 275 (18%) veterans and 1,247 (82%) nonveterans. Our results indicated a strong desire among the majority of participants 1,445 (95%) in getting their clinical lab research results. Likewise, 93% expressed interest in being informed about their future genetic results. There was no significant difference in veterans� and nonveterans� preference to disclosure of the research results (?2 test; p > 0.05). Regression analysis showed no significant relationship (p = 0.449) between the outcome (receiving research results) and veterans� responses after controlling for demographics and educational levels. Conclusion Participants believed they would prefer receiving their genetic research results. Veterans are similar to nonveterans in their preferences. Offering genetic research results to participants should be based on well defined and structured plans to enhance interpretation of genetic data. PMID:20829581
Arar, N.; Seo, J.; Lee, S.; Abboud, H.E.; Copeland, L.A.; Noel, P.; Parchman, M.
Systematic review: questionnaires for assessment of gastroesophageal reflux disease.
Numerous questionnaires with a wide variety of characteristics have been developed for the assessment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Four well-defined dimensions are noticeable in these GERD questionnaires, which are symptoms, response to treatment, diagnosis, and burden on the quality of life of GERD patients. The aim of this review is to develop a complete overview of all available questionnaires, categorized per dimension of the assessment of GERD. A systematic search of the literature up to January 2013 using the Pubmed database and the Embase database, and search of references and conference abstract books were conducted. A total number of 65 questionnaires were extracted and evaluated. Thirty-nine questionnaires were found applicable for the assessment of GERD symptoms, three of which are generic gastrointestinal questionnaires. For the assessment of response to treatment, 14 questionnaires were considered applicable. Seven questionnaires with diagnostic purposes were found. In the assessment of quality of life in GERD patients, 18 questionnaires were found and evaluated. Twenty questionnaires were found to be used for more than one assessment dimension, and eight questionnaires were found for GERD assessment in infants and/or children. A wide variety of GERD questionnaires is available, of which the majority is used for assessment of GERD symptoms. Questionnaires differ in aspects such as design, validation and translations. Also, numerous multidimensional questionnaires are available, of which the Reflux Disease Questionnaire is widely applicable. We provided an overview of GERD questionnaires to aid investigators and clinicians in their search for the most appropriate questionnaire for their specific purposes. PMID:24344627
Bolier, E A; Kessing, B F; Smout, A J; Bredenoord, A J
The Pediatric Stroke Recurrence and Recovery Questionnaire
Objective: We developed the Recurrence and Recovery Questionnaire (RRQ) by converting the Pediatric Stroke Outcome Measure (PSOM) to a questionnaire for telephone interview and sought to validate the RRQ in a large cohort. Method: We analyzed parents' RRQ responses and same-day PSOM assessments for 232 children who had arterial ischemic stroke, cerebral sinovenous thrombosis, or presumed perinatal ischemic stroke. We assessed the agreement and consistency of the PSOM and RRQ, and we identified conditions that contributed to differences between the 2 measures. We tested selected factors as predictors of differences between the total PSOM and total RRQ (tPSOM and tRRQ) scores. Results: Median PSOM score was 1.5 and median RRQ score was 1.5. There was good agreement between tPSOM and tRRQ, and RRQ was a reliable estimator of PSOM at the total and component level. Preexisting neurologic deficits or chronic illnesses increased the difference between the tPSOM and tRRQ; the chronic illness effect was confirmed with univariate analysis. Conclusions: The RRQ can characterize poststroke function when a child cannot return for examination. While the RRQ is not identical to the PSOM, the 2 measures likely assess closely related aspects of recovery. The RRQ is particularly useful when assessing outcomes of large cohorts, and will be useful in performing long-term follow-up studies of pediatric stroke. PMID:22895580
Ichord, Rebecca N.; Dowling, Michael M.; Rafay, Mubeen; Templeton, Jeffrey; Halperin, Aviva; Smith, Sabrina E.; Licht, Daniel J.; Moharir, Mahendranath; Askalan, Rand; deVeber, Gabrielle
Validation of a Questionnaire to Screen for Shift Work Disorder
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
Barger, Laura K.; Ogeil, Rowan P.; Drake, Christopher L.; O'Brien, Conor S.; Ng, Kim T.; Rajaratnam, Shantha M. W.
Development and validation of the Newcastle laryngeal hypersensitivity questionnaire
Background Laryngeal hypersensitivity may be an important component of the common disorders of laryngeal motor dysfunction including chronic refractory cough, pdoxical vocal fold movement (vocal cord dysfunction), muscle tension dysphonia, and globus pharyngeus. Patients with these conditions frequently report sensory disturbances, and an emerging concept of the �irritable larynx� suggests common features of a sensory neuropathic dysfunction as a part of these disorders. The aim of this study was to develop a Laryngeal Hypersensitivity Questionnaire for patients with laryngeal dysfunction syndromes in order to measure the laryngeal sensory disturbance occurring in these conditions. Methods The 97 participants included 82 patients referred to speech pathology for behavioural management of laryngeal dysfunction and 15 healthy controls. The participants completed a 21 item self administered questionnaire regarding symptoms of abnormal laryngeal sensation. Factor analysis was conducted to examine correlations between items. Discriminant analysis and responsiveness to change were evaluated. Results The final questionnaire comprised 14 items across three domains: obstruction, pain/thermal, and irritation. The questionnaire demonstrated significant discriminant validity with a mean difference between the patients with laryngeal disorders and healthy controls of 5.5. The clinical groups with laryngeal hypersensitivity had similar abnormal scores. Furthermore the Newcastle Laryngeal Hypersensitivity Questionnaire (LHQ) showed improvement following behavioural speech pathology intervention with a mean reduction in LHQ score of 2.3. Conclusion The Newcastle Laryngeal Hypersensitivity Questionnaire is a simple, non-invasive tool to measure laryngeal pesthesia in patients with laryngeal conditions such as chronic cough, pdoxical vocal fold movement (vocal cord dysfunction), muscle tension dysphonia, and globus pharyngeus. It can successfully differentiate patients from healthy controls and measure change following intervention. It is a promising tool for use in clinical research and practice. PMID:24552215
Development and Validation of the Vicarious Distress Questionnaire
The ability to empathize with other people's feelings of distress has been widely studied in psychology. However, no questionnaire to date has been developed in order to measure such distress responses and their behavioural correlates. Three studies describe the development and the validation of the Vicarious Distress Questionnaire (VDQ), which is a self-report measure that assesses participants' distress responses as
Delphine Grynberg; Alexandre Heeren; Olivier Luminet
Developing Written Questionnaires: Determining if Questionnaires Should be Used
NSDL National Science Digital Library
This module provides a strategy for determining whether a written questionnaire is an appropriate means of gathering data to meet the goals of an evaluation. The authors define which conditions are suitable for using questionnaires.
Daniel R. Zalles
The Toronto Empathy Questionnaire
In order to formulate a parsimonious tool to assess empathy, we used factor analysis on a combination of self-report measures to examine consensus and developed a brief self-report measure of this common factor. The Toronto Empathy Questionnaire (TEQ) represents empathy as a primarily emotional process. In three studies, the TEQ demonstrated strong convergent validity, correlating positively with behavioral measures of social decoding, self-report measures of empathy, and negatively with a measure of Autism symptomatology. Moreover, it exhibited good internal consistency and high test-retest reliability. The TEQ is a brief, reliable, and valid instrument for the assessment of empathy. PMID:19085285
Spreng, R. Nathan; McKinnon, Margaret C.; Mar, Raymond A.; Levine, Brian
Psychometric properties and responsiveness of the Turkish version of the Diabetes Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire (s) on a sample of diabetics of three consecutive monitoring periods
The aim of this study is to test the psychometric properties and the responsiveness of the original (status) version of Turkish\\u000a DTSQ. The study sample included 88 patients with diabetes mellitus who were evaluated in three consecutive time points. The\\u000a first data collection time point was during their initial contact to the clinic, and the two following (3rd month and
Bilgin �zmen; Erhan Eser; Sabriye �zkaya Kafes�iler; T�mer Pala; Feyzullah G��l�; Zeliha Hekimsoy
The Loneliness Questionnaire�Short Version: An Evaluation of Reverse-Worded and Non-Reverse-Worded Items Via Item Response Theory
Although reverse-worded items have often been incorporated in scale construction to minimize the effects of acquiescent reporting biases, some researchers have more recently begun questioning this approach and wondering whether the advantages associated with incorporating reverse-worded items is worth the complexities that they bring to measures (e.g., Brown, 2003; Marsh, 1996). In this study, we used item response theory (IRT)
Chad Ebesutani; Christopher F. Drescher; Steven P. Reise; Laurie Heiden; Terry L. Hight; John D. Damon; John Young
Questionnaire Translation and Questionnaire Validation: Are They the Same?
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
The purpose of this paper is to give evidence for the thesis that if teachers using a questionnaire as a data collection instrument have the questionnaire items translated from one language into another, they cannot assume that the translated items are valid simply because they were translated. Even if the original questionnaire items were�
Griffee, Dale T.
Improving cancer patient care: development of a generic cancer consumer quality index questionnaire for cancer patients
Background To develop a Consumer Quality Index (CQI) Cancer Care questionnaire for measuring experiences with hospital care of patients with different types of cancer. Methods We derived quality aspects from focus group discussions, existing questionnaires and literature. We developed an experience questionnaire and sent it to 1,498 Dutch cancer patients. Another questionnaire measuring the importance of the quality aspects was sent to 600 cancer patients. Data were psychometrically analysed. Results The response to the experience questionnaire was 50 percent. Psychometric analysis revealed 12 reliable scales. Patients rated rapid and adequate referral, rapid start of the treatment after diagnosis, enough information and confidence in the healthcare professionals as most important themes. Hospitals received high scores for skills and cooperation of healthcare professionals and a patient-centered approach by doctors; and low scores for psychosocial guidance and information at completion of the treatment. Conclusions The CQI Cancer Care questionnaire is a valuable tool for the evaluation of the quality of cancer care from the patient�s perspective. Large scale implementation is necessary to determine the discriminatory powers of the questionnaire and may enable healthcare providers to improve the quality of cancer care. Preliminary results indicate that hospitals could improve their psychosocial guidance and information provision. PMID:23617741
Diet History Questionnaire: International Applications
ARP staff adapted the Diet History Questionnaire (DHQ) for use by Canadian populations in collaboration with the Alberta Cancer Board. This questionnaire takes into account the different food fortification polices of the US and Canada.
ATBC Study - Questionnaires and Forms
Skip to Main Content Home Contact Us Links Study Details Questionnaires & Forms Current Projects ATBC Study Bibliography Study Investigators & Collaborators Proposal Review & Collaboration Research Consortium Projects Questionnaires & Forms Baseline
Assessment of fear of fear in agoraphobics: The Body Sensations Questionnaire and the Agoraphobic Cognitions Questionnaire
Describes the development of the Agoraphobic Cognitions Questionnaire and the Body Sensations Questionnaire, companion measures for assessing aspects of fear of fear (panic attacks) in agoraphobics. The instruments were administered to 175 agoraphobics (mean age 37.64 yrs) and 43 controls (mean age 36.13 yrs) who were similar in sex and marital status to experimental Ss. Results show that the instruments
Dianne L. Chambless; G. Craig Caputo; Priscilla Bright; Richard Gallagher
The Tridimensional Personality Questionnaire: Structural Validity and Comparison with the Multidimensional Personality Questionnaire.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
The structural and external validity of the Tridimensional Personality Questionnaire (TPQ) and the relations among TPQ lower-order and higher-order scales and those of the Multidimensional Personality Questionnaire were examined. Results for 1,236 adults support the TPQ's validity but indicate its failure to operationalize portions of the�
Waller, Niels G.; And Others
Formatting Questionnaires for Computer Data Entry.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
The maximum incorporation of computer coding into an instrument is recommended to reduce errors in coding information from questionnaires. Specific suggestions for guiding the precoding process for response options, numeric identifiers, and assignment of card columns are proposed for mainframe computer data entry. (BS)
Boser, Judith A.
Questionnaires Help in Problem-Analysis.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Offers suggestions for designing a management questionnaire and interpreting employee responses so that executives may make an informed decision on whether to support an intervention. Highlights include employee perceptions on competing goals; supervisory suggestions and employee reactions; and a case study. (Author/LRW)
Yaney, Joseph P.
Faking Personality Questionnaires in Personnel Selection.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
A personality questionnaire administered to 86 subjects contained varying amounts of information regarding job title, job description, and person specification. Participants answered once honestly and faked answers once. All groups produced similar profiles but were unable to fake responses to match the ideal profile for the job. (SK)
Dalen, Lindy H.; Stanton, Neville A.; Roberts, Antony D.
Standardized Questionnaires of Walking & Bicycling Database
This database contains questionnaire items and a list of validation studies for standardized items concerning walking and biking from multiple national and international physical activity questionnaires (PAQs). The purpose of this database is to provide easy access to a large number of items assessing duration and frequency of walking and bicycling in the non-disabled adult population. We also briefly review the results of validation studies identified for some of the PAQs.
Evaluating a questionnaire to measure improvement initiatives in Swedish healthcare
Background Quality improvement initiatives have expanded recently within the healthcare sector. Studies have shown that less than 40% of these initiatives are successful, indicating the need for an instrument that can measure the progress and results of quality improvement initiatives and answer questions about how quality initiatives are conducted. The aim of the present study was to develop and test an instrument to measure improvement process and outcome in Swedish healthcare. Methods A questionnaire, founded on the Minnesota Innovation Survey (MIS), was developed in several steps. Items were merged and answer alternatives were revised. Employees participating in a county council improvement program received the web-based questionnaire. Data was analysed by descriptive statistics and correlation analysis. The questionnaire psychometric properties were investigated and an exploratory factor analysis was conducted. Results The Swedish Improvement Measurement Questionnaire consists of 27 items. The Improvement Effectiveness Outcome dimension consists of three items and has a Cronbach�s alpha coefficient of 0.67. The Internal Improvement Processes dimension consists of eight sub-dimensions with a total of 24 items. Cronbach�s alpha coefficient for the complete dimension was 0.72. Three significant item correlations were found. A large involvement in the improvement initiative was shown and the majority of the respondents were satisfied with their work. Conclusions The psychometric property tests suggest initial support for the questionnaire to study and evaluate quality improvement initiatives in Swedish healthcare settings. The overall satisfaction with the quality improvement initiative correlates positively to the awareness of individual responsibilities. PMID:23391160
Physical Activity Questionnaire Comprehension-Lessons from Cognitive Interviews
Purpose To determine if respondents share researchers� understandings of concepts and questions frequently used in the assessment of usual physical activity behavior. Methods As part of On the Move, a study aimed at reducing measurement error in self-reported physical activity (PA), we conducted cognitive interviews with 19 men and 21 women, ages 45-65, regarding their responses to the PA questionnaires used in two large, population-based studies, LACE (Life After Cancer Epidemiology) and CMH (California Men�s Health Study). One questionnaire asks about the frequency, duration, and perceived intensity of a range of specific activities in several different domains over the past 12 months. The second questionnaire asks about frequency and duration of specific, mostly recreational activities, grouped by intensity (i.e., moderate or vigorous) over the past 3 months. We used verbal probing techniques to allow respondents to describe their thought processes as they completed the questionnaires. All interviews were tape-recorded and transcribed, and the transcripts were then analyzed using standard qualitative methods. Results Cognitive interviews demonstrated that a sizable number of respondents understood �intensity� in terms of emotional or psychological intensity, rather than physical effort. As a result, the perceived intensity with which a participant reported doing a specific activity often bore little relationship to the MET value of that activity. Additionally, participants often counted the same activity more than once, overestimated work-related PA, and understood activities that were grouped together in a single category to be definitive lists rather than examples. Conclusion Cognitive interviews revealed significant gaps between respondents� interpretations of some physical activity questions and researchers� assumptions about what those questions were intended to measure. Some sources of measurement error in self-reported PA may be minimized by additional research that focuses on the cognitive processes required to respond to PA questionnaires. PMID:19127192
Altschuler, Andrea; Picchi, Teresa; Nelson, Melissa; Rogers, John D.; Hart, Jan; Sternfeld, Barbara
How to use Outcome Questionnaires: Pearls and Pitfalls
Outcome questionnaires are increasingly used in the current medical practice. Patient reported outcomes serve as an essential and perhaps more relevant means for assessing patients� response to treatment than clinical measures alone. Many of the procedures performed in plastic surgery are associated with aesthetic outcomes, therefore it is pertinent to thoroughly understand the patient�s perspective of achieved results. Surgeons need to possess the knowledge and skills about outcomes assessments and understand how to apply them to improve quality of care delivered based on evidence. This paper discusses the appropriate use of outcome questionnaires to rigorously evaluate treatment methods based on patient satisfaction and the outcome measurement instruments frequently used in plastic surgery. PMID:23506766
Malay, Sunitha; Chung, Kevin C.
Stigma in Canada: Results From a Rapid Response Survey
Objective: Our paper presents findings from the first population survey of stigma in Canada using a new measure of stigma. Empirical objectives are to provide a descriptive profile of Canadian�s expectations that people will devalue and discriminate against someone with depression, and to explore the relation between experiences of being stigmatized in the year prior to the survey among people having been treated for a mental illness with a selected number of sociodemographic and mental health�related variables. Method: Data were collected by Statistics Canada using a rapid response format on a representative sample of Canadians (n = 10 389) during May and June of 2010. Public expectations of stigma and personal experiences of stigma in the subgroup receiving treatment for a mental illness were measured. Results: Over one-half of the sample endorsed 1 or more of the devaluation discrimination items, indicating that they believed Canadians would stigmatize someone with depression. The item most frequently endorsed concerned employers not considering an application from someone who has had depression. Over one-third of people who had received treatment in the year prior to the survey reported discrimination in 1 or more life domains. Experiences of discrimination were strongly associated with perceptions that Canadians would devalue someone with depression, younger age (12 to 15 years), and self-reported poor general mental health. Conclusions: The Mental Health Experiences Module reflects an important partnership between 2 national organizations that will help Canada fulfill its monitoring obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and provide a legacy to researchers and policy-makers who are interested in monitoring changes in stigma over time. PMID:25565699
Stuart, Heather; Patten, Scott B; Koller, Michelle; Modgill, Geeta; Liinamaa, Tiina
Testing the Validity and Reliability of the Shame Questionnaire among Sexually Abused Girls in Zambia
Purpose The aim of the current study is to test the validity and reliability of the Shame Questionnaire among traumatized girls in Lusaka, Zambia. Methods The Shame Questionnaire was validated through both classical test and item response theory methods. Internal reliability, criterion validity and construct validity were examined among a sample of 325 female children living in Zambia. Sub-analyses were conducted to examine differences in construct validity among girls who reported sexual abuse and girls who did not. Results All girls in the sample were sexually abused, but only 61.5% endorsed or reported that sexual abuse had occurred. Internal consistency was very good among the sample with alpha = .87. Criterion validity was demonstrated through a significant difference of mean Shame Questionnaire scores between girls who experienced 0�1 trauma events and more than one traumatic event, with higher mean Shame Questionnaire scores among girls who had more than one traumatic event (p = .004 for 0�1 compared to 2 and 3 events and p = .016 for 0�1 compared to 4+ events). Girls who reported a history of witnessing or experiencing physical abuse had a significantly higher mean Shame Questionnaire score than girls who did not report a history of witnessing or experiencing physical abuse (p<.0001). There was no significant difference in mean Shame Questionnaire score between girls who reported a sexual abuse history and girls who did not. Exploratory factor analysis indicated a two-factor model of the Shame Questionnaire, with an experience of shame dimension and an active outcomes of shame dimension. Item response theory analysis indicated adequate overall item fit. Results also indicate potential differences in construct validity between girls who did and did not endorse sexual abuse. Conclusions This study suggests the general utility of the Shame Questionnaire among Zambian girls and demonstrates the need for more psychometric studies in low and middle income countries. PMID:25879658
Michalopoulos, Lynn T. M.; Murray, Laura K.; Kane, Jeremy C.; Skavenski van Wyk, Stephanie; Chomba, Elwyn; Cohen, Judith; Imasiku, Mwiya; Semrau, Katherine; Unick, Jay; Bolton, Paul A.
American society of nephrology quiz and questionnaire 2014: glomerular diseases.
The Nephrology Quiz and Questionnaire remains an extremely popular session for attendees of the Annual Kidney Week Meeting of the American Society of Nephrology. Once again, the conference hall was overflowing with audience members and eager quiz participants. Topics covered by the expert discussants included electrolyte and acid-base disorders, glomerular disease, ESRD/dialysis, and transplantation. Complex cases representing each of these categories along with single best answer questions were prepared and submitted by the panel of experts. Before the meeting, program directors of United States nephrology training programs and nephrology fellows answered the questions through an internet-based questionnaire. During the live session, members of the audience tested their knowledge and judgment on a series of case-oriented questions that were prepared and discussed by the experts. They compared their answers in real time using audience response devices with the answers of the nephrology fellows and training program directors. The correct and incorrect answers were then discussed after the audience responses, and the results of the questionnaire were displayed. As always, the audience, lecturers, and moderators enjoyed this educational session. This article recapitulates the session and reproduces its educational value for the readers of CJASN. Enjoy the clinical cases and expert discussions. PMID:25667164
Bomback, Andrew S; Perazella, Mark A; Choi, Michael J
National questionnaire survey on what influences doctors' decisions about admission to intensive care
Objective To determine what influences doctors' decisions about admission of patients to intensive care. Design National questionnaire survey using eight clinical vignettes involving hypothetical patients. Setting Switzerland. Participants 402 Swiss doctors specialising in intensive care. Main outcome measures Rating of factors influencing decisions on admission and response to eight hypothetical clinical scenarios. Results Of 381 doctors agreeing to participate, 232
Monica Escher; Thomas V Perneger; Jean-Claude Chevrolet
Measurement characteristics of diet-related psychosocial questionnaires among African-American parents and their 8- to 10-year-old daughters: results from the Girls' health Enrichment Multi-site Studies
Objective. This paper presents the reliability and validity of several diet-related psychosocial questionnaires.Methods. At baseline and 12 weeks follow-up, parents\\/caregivers of one hundred fifty 8- to 10-year-old African-American completed questionnaires on food preparation habits for their daughter, perceived home barriers to healthy eating, and fruit, juice, vegetable (FJV), low-fat and high-fat food availability. Girls completed a sweetened beverage preferences questionnaire
Karen W Cullen; Lisa M Klesges; Nancy E Sherwood; Tom Baranowski; Bettina Beech; Charlotte Pratt; Ainong Zhou; James Rochon
QUESTIONNAIRE Anne Landfield Greig
................................................................................... 10 5 PRODUCT DATA per response, including the time of reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering Foreword The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Engineering Laboratory is gathering data
This data set includes responses for 326 baseline questionnaires. The Baseline Questionnaire was used to provide more detailed information on the characteristics of the sample individual and housing, and on the usual frequency of activities over a longer time frame (i.e., last mo...
Response Time of Streaming Chains: Analysis and Results
The analysis of systems executing a set of transactions composed by a number of tasks is required in some application domains, such as distributed systems or many audio\\/video streaming systems. The paper deals with the time response analysis of such systems, considering periodic uniprocessor transactions, and tasks, characterized by their fixed priority and execution time, connected in series through bounded
Angel M. Groba; Alejandro Alonso; Jos� A. Rodr�guez; Marisol Garc�a-valls
Planck 2013 results. VII. HFI time response and beams
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
This paper characterizes the effective beams, the effective beam window functions and the associated errors for the Planck High Frequency Instrument (HFI) detectors. The effective beam is theangular response including the effect of the optics, detectors, data processing and the scan strategy. The window function is the representation of this beam in the harmonic domain which is required to recover an unbiased measurement of the cosmic microwave background angular power spectrum. The HFI is a scanning instrument and its effective beams are the convolution of: a) the optical response of the telescope and feeds; b) the processing of the time-ordered data and deconvolution of the bolometric and electronic transfer function; and c) the merging of several surveys to produce maps. The time response transfer functions are measured using observations of Jupiter and Saturn and by minimizing survey difference residuals. The scanning beam is the post-deconvolution angular response of the instrument, and is characterized with observations of Mars. The main beam solid angles are determined to better than 0.5% at each HFI frequency band. Observations of Jupiter and Saturn limit near sidelobes (within 5�) to about 0.1% of the total solid angle. Time response residuals remain as long tails in the scanning beams, but contribute less than 0.1% of the total solid angle. The bias and uncertainty in the beam products are estimated using ensembles of simulated planet observations that include the impact of instrumental noise and known systematic effects. The correlation structure of these ensembles is well-described by five error eigenmodes that are sub-dominant to sample variance and instrumental noise in the harmonic domain. A suite of consistency tests provide confidence that the error model represents a sufficient description of the data. The total error in the effective beam window functions is below 1% at 100 GHz up to multipole ? ~ 1500, and below 0.5% at 143 and 217 GHz up to ? ~ 2000.
Planck Collaboration; Ade, P. A. R.; Aghanim, N.; Armitage-Caplan, C.; Arnaud, M.; Ashdown, M.; Atrio-Barandela, F.; Aumont, J.; Baccigalupi, C.; Banday, A. J.; Barreiro, R. B.; Battaner, E.; Benabed, K.; Beno�t, A.; Benoit-L�vy, A.; Bernard, J.-P.; Bersanelli, M.; Bielewicz, P.; Bobin, J.; Bock, J. J.; Bond, J. R.; Borrill, J.; Bouchet, F. R.; Bowyer, J. W.; Bridges, M.; Bucher, M.; Burigana, C.; Cardoso, J.-F.; Catalano, A.; Challinor, A.; Chamballu, A.; Chary, R.-R.; Chiang, H. C.; Chiang, L.-Y.; Christensen, P. R.; Church, S.; Clements, D. L.; Colombi, S.; Colombo, L. P. L.; Couchot, F.; Coulais, A.; Crill, B. P.; Curto, A.; Cuttaia, F.; Danese, L.; Davies, R. D.; de Bernardis, P.; de Rosa, A.; de Zotti, G.; Delabrouille, J.; Delouis, J.-M.; D�sert, F.-X.; Diego, J. M.; Dole, H.; Donzelli, S.; Dor�, O.; Douspis, M.; Dunkley, J.; Dupac, X.; Efstathiou, G.; En�lin, T. A.; Eriksen, H. K.; Finelli, F.; Forni, O.; Frailis, M.; Fraisse, A. A.; Franceschi, E.; Galeotta, S.; Ganga, K.; Giard, M.; Giraud-H�raud, Y.; Gonz�lez-Nuevo, J.; G�rski, K. M.; Gratton, S.; Gregorio, A.; Gruppuso, A.; Gudmundsson, J. E.; Haissinski, J.; Hansen, F. K.; Hanson, D.; Harrison, D.; Henrot-Versill�, S.; Hern�ndez-Monteagudo, C.; Herranz, D.; Hildebrandt, S. R.; Hivon, E.; Hobson, M.; Holmes, W. A.; Hornstrup, A.; Hou, Z.; Hovest, W.; Huffenberger, K. M.; Jaffe, A. H.; Jaffe, T. R.; Jones, W. C.; Juvela, M.; Keih�nen, E.; Keskitalo, R.; Kisner, T. S.; Kneissl, R.; Knoche, J.; Knox, L.; Kunz, M.; Kurki-Suonio, H.; Lagache, G.; Lamarre, J.-M.; Lasenby, A.; Laureijs, R. J.; Lawrence, C. R.; Leonardi, R.; Leroy, C.; Lesgourgues, J.; Liguori, M.; Lilje, P. B.; Linden-V�rnle, M.; L�pez-Caniego, M.; Lubin, P. M.; Mac�as-P�rez, J. F.; MacTavish, C. J.; Maffei, B.; Mandolesi, N.; Maris, M.; Marshall, D. J.; Martin, P. G.; Mart�nez-Gonz�lez, E.; Masi, S.; Massardi, M.; Matarrese, S.; Matsumura, T.; Matthai, F.; Mazzotta, P.; McGehee, P.; Melchiorri, A.; Mendes, L.; Mennella, A.; Migliaccio, M.; Mitra, S.; Miville-Desch�nes, M.-A.; Moneti, A.; Montier, L.; Morgante, G.; Mortlock, D.; Munshi, D.; Murphy, J. A.; Naselsky, P.; Nati, F.; Natoli, P.; Netterfield, C. B.; N�rgaard-Nielsen, H. U.; Noviello, F.; Novikov, D.; Novikov, I.; Osborne, S.; Oxborrow, C. A.; Paci, F.; Pagano, L.; Pajot, F.; Paoletti, D.; Pasian, F.; Patanchon, G.; Perdereau, O.; Perotto, L.; Perrotta, F.; Piacentini, F.; Piat, M.; Pierpaoli, E.; Pietrobon, D.; Plaszczynski, S.; Pointecouteau, E.; Polegre, A. M.; Polenta, G.; Ponthieu, N.; Popa, L.; Poutanen, T.; Pratt, G. W.; Pr�zeau, G.; Prunet, S.; Puget, J.-L.; Rachen, J. P.; Reinecke, M.; Remazeilles, M.; Renault, C.; Ricciardi, S.; Riller, T.; Ristorcelli, I.; Rocha, G.; Rosset, C.; Roudier, G.; Rowan-Robinson, M.; Rusholme, B.; Sandri, M.; Santos, D.; Sauv�, A.; Savini, G.; Scott, D.; Shellard, E. P. S.; Spencer, L. D.; Starck, J.-L.; Stolyarov, V.; Stompor, R.; Sudiwala, R.; Sureau, F.; Sutton, D.; Suur-Uski, A.-S.; Sygnet, J.-F.; Tauber, J. A.; Tavagnacco, D.; Terenzi, L.; Tomasi, M.; Tristram, M.; Tucci, M.; Umana, G.; Valenziano, L.; Valiviita, J.; Van Tent, B.; Vielva, P.; Villa, F.; Vittorio, N.; Wade, L. A.; Wandelt, B. D.; Yvon, D.; Zacchei, A.; Zonca, A.
Interaction between gas cooking and GSTM1 null genotype in bronchial responsiveness: results from the European Community Respiratory Health Survey
Background Increased bronchial responsiveness is characteristic of asthma. Gas cooking, which is a major indoor source of the highly oxidant nitrogen dioxide, has been associated with respiratory symptoms and reduced lung function. However, little is known about the effect of gas cooking on bronchial responsiveness and on how this relationship may be modified by variants in the genes GSTM1, GSTT1 and GSTP1, which influence antioxidant defences. Methods The study was performed in subjects with forced expiratory volume in one second at least 70% of predicted who took part in the multicentre European Community Respiratory Health Survey, had bronchial responsiveness assessed by methacholine challenge and had been genotyped for GSTM1, GSTT1 and GSTP1-rs1695. Information on the use of gas for cooking was obtained from interviewer-led questionnaires. Effect modification by genotype on the association between the use of gas for cooking and bronchial responsiveness was assessed within each participating country, and estimates combined using meta-analysis. Results Overall, gas cooking, as compared with cooking with electricity, was not associated with bronchial responsiveness (?=?0.08, 95% CI ?0.40 to 0.25, p=0.648). However, GSTM1 significantly modified this effect (? for interaction=?0.75, 95% CI ?1.16 to ?0.33, p=4�10?4), with GSTM1 null subjects showing more responsiveness if they cooked with gas. No effect modification by GSTT1 or GSTP1-rs1695 genotypes was observed. Conclusions Increased bronchial responsiveness was associated with gas cooking among subjects with the GSTM1 null genotype. This may reflect the oxidant effects on the bronchi of exposure to nitrogen dioxide. PMID:24613990
Amaral, Andr� F S; Ramasamy, Adaikalavan; Castro-Giner, Francesc; Minelli, Cosetta; Accordini, Simone; S�rheim, Inga-Cecilie; Pin, Isabelle; Kogevinas, Manolis; J�gi, Rain; Balding, David J; Norb�ck, Dan; Verlato, Giuseppe; Olivieri, Mario; Probst-Hensch, Nicole; Janson, Christer; Zock, Jan-Paul; Heinrich, Joachim; Jarvis, Deborah L
The use of questionnaires for acquiring information on public perception of natural hazards and risk mitigation - a review of current knowledge and practice
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Questionnaires are popular and fundamental tools for acquiring information on public knowledge and perception of natural hazards. Questionnaires can provide valuable information to emergency management agencies for developing risk management procedures. Although many natural hazards researchers describe results generated from questionnaires, few explain the techniques used for their development and implementation. Methodological detail should include, as a minimum, response format (open/closed questions), mode of delivery, sampling technique, response rate and access to the questionnaire to allow reproduction of or comparison with similar studies. This article reviews current knowledge and practice for developing and implementing questionnaires. Key features include questionnaire design, delivery mode, sampling techniques and data analysis. In order to illustrate these aspects, a case study examines methods chosen for the development and implementation of questionnaires used to obtain information on knowledge and perception of volcanic hazards in a tourist region in southern Iceland. Face-to-face interviews highlighted certain issues with respect to question structure and sequence. Recommendations are made to overcome these problems before the questionnaires are applied in future research projects. In conclusion, basic steps that should be disclosed in the literature are provided as a checklist to ensure that reliable, replicable and valid results are produced from questionnaire based hazard knowledge and risk perception research.
Bird, D. K.
Results of switching to milnacipran in fibromyalgia patients with an inadequate response to duloxetine: a phase IV pilot study
Background The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of milnacipran following a direct switch from duloxetine in fibromyalgia patients experiencing inadequate clinical response to duloxetine after receiving treatment for 6 weeks or longer. Methods This exploratory study included 107 patients with fibromyalgia who had been treated with duloxetine 60 mg/day for at least 4 weeks prior to enrollment. Following a 2-week open-label period on duloxetine, patients who had visual analog scale pain scores ? 40 and were dissatisfied with current treatment were randomized 4:1 to milnacipran 100 mg/day (n = 86) or placebo (n = 21) for 10 weeks of double-blind treatment. The small placebo group was included solely to blind the study and minimize expectation bias among patients and investigators, and there was no preplanned statistical comparison between treatment groups. The primary efficacy parameter was the percentage of patients rating themselves as �much improved� or �very much improved� on the Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC) at the final visit. Other efficacy parameters included changes in one-week recall visual analog scale pain, Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire Revised (FIQR), and Multiple Ability Self-Report Questionnaire (MASQ). Results Of patients switched to milnacipran, 32.9% were classified as PGIC responders, and they also demonstrated improvement in visual analog scale pain, FIQR total, and MASQ total scores (mean changes from baseline were ?12.3, ?7.77, and ?2.39, respectively). Nausea and dizziness were the most common treatment-emergent adverse events in patients switched to milnacipran, reported in 21% and 15%, respectively, of patients in this group. Conclusion Results from this exploratory study suggest that switching from duloxetine to milnacipran may be beneficial in some patients with fibromyalgia who have an inadequate response to duloxetine. Further research investigating the efficacy and safety of switching fibromyalgia therapies is warranted. PMID:23658494
Bateman, Lucinda; Palmer, Robert H; Trugman, Joel M; Lin, Yuhua
Assessment of the measurement properties of quality of life questionnaires in Brazilian women with breast cancer
BACKGROUND: There are several questionnaires available to assess quality of life in breast cancer, however the choice of the best questionnaire often does not take into account the adequacy of these questionnaires' measurement properties. OBJECTIVE: To test the measurement properties of two generic quality of life questionnaires and one quality of life questionnaire specific for women with breast cancer. METHOD: We assessed 106 women after surgery for breast cancer. The assessment included application of the SF-36, WHOQOL-bref, and FACT-B+4 questionnaires as well as the Global Perceived Effect and Pain Numerical Rating scales. The participants were interviewed on three occasions to investigate internal consistency, floor and ceiling effects, construct validity, reproducibility, and responsiveness. RESULTS: Most of the instruments' domains showed adequate internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha varying from 0.66 to 0.91). Reliability varied from poor to substantial (ICC2,1 between 0.39 and 0.87) and agreement varied from negative to very good. The SF-36 presented doubtful agreement and showed floor and ceiling effects in three domains. The domains of the generic questionnaires presented moderate to good correlation with the FACT-B+4 (Pearson varying from 0.31 to 0.69). The internal responsiveness varied from small to large (ES varying from -0.26 to 0.98) and external responsiveness was found in only some of the instruments' domains. CONCLUSIONS: Most of the measurement properties tested for the WHOQOL-bref and FACT-B+4 were adequate as was their ability to assess quality of life in women with breast cancer. The SF-36 showed inadequacy in agreement and floor and ceiling effects and should not be used in women with breast cancer. PMID:25075998
Oliveira, Indiara S.; Costa, Luc�ola C. M.; Manzoni, Ana C. T.; Cabral, Cristina M. N.
Hospital administrators' response to AIDS. Results of a national survey.
Executives are just beginning to adapt to the presence of the epidemic. Two-thirds have been involved in AIDS care and these hospitals appear to be in the forefront in developing structural responses and initiating procedures to deal with the disease. Through the use of rating scale analysis, we were able to show a continuum of responses by which hospitals cope with the disease. First, educational efforts are begun, then human resource departments begin to refer employees with AIDS to caregivers. And the most developed response is for hospitals to establish specific policies for employees, ultimately requiring them to report whether or not they have the disease to their supervisor. Executives' attitudes also seem to be affected by whether or not their hospitals have cared for any AIDS patients. In contrast to the contact hypothesis used to explain prejudice, experienced administrators are more authoritarian in reacting to the crisis. For example, more experienced than inexperienced hospital administrators agree that all patients should be routinely tested for AIDS. Our findings are corroborated in a recently reported study of house staff who had been exposed to patients with AIDS. House officers who had cared for a greater number of AIDS patients showed a greater level of concern about acquiring the disease than those with less exposure. Just as experience among house officers serves to produce increasing concern for their personal safety, so too experience on the part of the executives appears to intensify anxiety in their attitudes. Experienced administrators are more likely to advocate specialized facilities for the care of AIDS patients.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID:2338844
Weil, P A; Stam, L M
JOB EVALUATION QUESTIONNAIRE ANSWER SHEET DO NOT WRITE IN THIS SPACE N.C. Date Received Reclass New Starting Date in Class Yes No NA (NA if Temporary Job) Notice # Effective Date If Reclassified IS TO BE USED WITH THE JOB EVALUATION QUESTIONNAIRE (BA 802) ONLY FOR POSITIONS COVERED BY CIVIL SERVICE
Amin, S. Massoud
Faking personality questionnaires in personnel selection
Investigates the extent to which it is possible to fake a personality questionnaire to match the ideal candidate�s profile. Previous research suggests that responses to personality measures can be faked with relative ease. It was anticipated that the amount of information available to the candidate might make faking-to-profile easier. Therefore this study manipulated the information available to participants through three
Lindy H. Dalen; Neville A. Stanton; Antony D. Roberts
This data set includes responses for 249 technician walk-through questionnaires. The Technician Questionnaire was used to identify and inventory the presence of pollutant sources and document physical characteristics of the building (technician completed to minimize burden on stu...
Preferences regarding Genetic Research Results: Comparing Veterans and Nonveterans Responses
Objective: Communicating genetic research results to participants presents ethical challenges. Our objectives were to examine participants� preferences in receiving future genetic research results and to compare preferences reported by veteran and nonveterans participants. Methods: Secondary analysis was performed on data collected in 2000�2004 from 1,575 consent forms signed by Mexican-American participants enrolled in 2 genetic family studies (GFS) in San
N. Arar; J. Seo; S. Lee; H. E. Abboud; L. A. Copeland; P. Noel; M. Parchman
Improving access for patients � a practice manager questionnaire
Background The administrative and professional consequences of access targets for general practices, as detailed in the new GMS contract, are unknown. This study researched the effect of implementing the access targets of the new GP contract on general practice appointment systems, and practice manager satisfaction in a UK primary health care setting. Methods A four-part postal questionnaire was administered. The questionnaire was modified from previously validated questionnaires and the findings compared with data obtained from the Western Health and Social Services Board (WHSSB) in N Ireland. Practice managers from the 59 general practices in the WHSSB responded to the questionnaire. Results There was a 94.9% response rate. Practice managers were generally satisfied with the introduction of access targets for patients. Some 57.1% of responding practices, most in deprived areas (Odds ratio 3.13 -95% CI 1.01 � 9.80, p = 0.0256) had modified their appointment systems. Less booking flexibility was reported among group practices (p = 0.006), urban practices (p < 0.001) and those with above average patient list sizes (p < 0.001). Receptionists had not received training in patient appointment management in a quarter of practices. Practices with smaller list sizes were more likely than larger ones to utilise nurses in seeing extra patients (p = 0.007) or to undertake triage procedures (p = 0.062). Conclusion The findings demonstrated the ability of general practices within the WHSSB to adjust to a demanding component of the new GP contract. Issues relating to the flexibility of patient appointment booking systems, receptionists' training and the development of the primary care nursing role were highlighted by the study. PMID:16784530
Meade, James G; Brown, James S
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) system 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.
Powell, Danny H [ORNL] [ORNL; Elwood Jr, Robert H [ORNL] [ORNL
Usual Dietary Intakes: NHANES Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ)
NCI developed a new instrument called the NHANES Food Frequency Questionnaire (formerly called Food Propensity Questionnaire) and supported its application in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). This instrument collects much of the same information as a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ), but without asking about portion size. The resulting data can be employed in the NCI usual dietary intakes model as covariates. By not asking about portion size, the NHANES FFQ requires less respondent burden than other FFQs.
Cognitive Biases Questionnaire for Psychosis
Objective: The Cognitive Biases Questionnaire for psychosis (CBQp) was developed to capture 5 cognitive distortions (jumping to conclusions, intentionalising, catastrophising, emotional reasoning, and dichotomous thinking), which are considered important for the pathogenesis of psychosis. Vignettes were adapted from the Cognitive Style Test (CST),1 relating to �Anomalous Perceptions� and �Threatening Events� themes. Method: Scale structure, reliability, and validity were investigated in a psychosis group, and CBQp scores were compared with those of depressed and healthy control samples. Results: The CBQp showed good internal consistency and test-retest reliability. The 5 biases were not independent, with a 2-related factor scale providing the best fit. This structure suggests that the CBQp assesses a general thinking bias rather than distinct cognitive errors, while Anomalous Perception and Threatening Events theme scores can be used separately. Total CBQp scores showed good convergent validity with the CST, but individual biases were not related to existing tasks purporting to assess similar reasoning biases. Psychotic and depressed populations scored higher than healthy controls, and symptomatic psychosis patients scored higher than their nonsymptomatic counterparts, with modest relationships between CBQp scores and symptom severity once emotional disorders were partialled out. Anomalous Perception theme and Intentionalising bias scores showed some specificity to psychosis. Conclusions: Overall, the CBQp has good psychometric properties, although it is likely that it measures a different construct to existing tasks, tentatively suggested to represent a bias of interpretation rather than reasoning, judgment or decision-making processes. It is a potentially useful tool in both research and clinical arenas. PMID:23413104
Peters, Emmanuelle R.
Subclassification of children with autism and pervasive developmental disorder: A questionnaire based on Wing's Subgrouping scheme
A questionnaire (the Wing Subgroups Questionnaire, or WSQ) for subclassifying children with autism into one of Wing's three hypothesized subgroups was developed, and the validity of this measure was assessed. Forty parents of children with autism or pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDDNOS) completed the questionnaire. Results indicated that the questionnaire has adequate external criterion-referenced validity with similar subgroup
Paul Castelloe; Geraldine Dawson
Parent & Family Pulse Poll May 2014: Students' Summer Plans Results (181 responses)
Summer camp/counselor at summer camp 7.2% 13 Attending Red Raider Orientation - my student is an enteringParent & Family Pulse Poll � May 2014: Students' Summer Plans Results (181 responses) My student this summer? Check all that apply: Answer Options Response Percent Response Count Studying abroad 5.5% 10
Rock, Chris
Tablet, Web-Based, or Paper Questionnaires for Measuring Anxiety in Patients Suspected of Breast Cancer: Patients' Preferences and Quality of Collected Data
Background Electronic applications are increasingly being used in hospitals for numerous purposes. Objective Our aim was to assess differences in the characteristics of patients who choose paper versus electronic questionnaires and to evaluate the data quality of both approaches. Methods Between October 2012 and June 2013, 136 patients participated in a study on diagnosis-induced stress and anxiety. Patients were asked to fill out questionnaires at six different moments during the diagnostic phase. They were given the opportunity to fill out the questionnaires on paper or electronically (a combination of tablet and Web-based questionnaires). Demographic characteristics and completeness of returned data were compared between groups. Results Nearly two-thirds of patients (88/136, 64.7%) chose to fill out the questionnaires on paper, and just over a third (48/136, 35.3%) preferred the electronic option. Patients choosing electronic questionnaires were significantly younger (mean 47.3 years vs mean 53.5 in the paper group, P=.01) and higher educated (P=.004). There was significantly more missing information (ie, at least one question not answered) in the paper group during the diagnostic day compared to the electronic group (using a tablet) (28/88 vs 1/48, P<.001). However, in the week after the diagnostic day, missing information was significantly higher in the electronic group (Web-based questionnaires) compared to the paper group (41/48 vs 38/88, P<.001). Conclusions Younger patients and patients with a higher level of education have a preference towards filling out questionnaires electronically. In the hospital, a tablet is an excellent medium for patients to fill out questionnaires with very little missing information. However, for filling out questionnaires at home, paper questionnaires resulted in a better response than Web-based questionnaires. PMID:25364951
Wessels, Hester; van Diest, Paul J; Pijnappel, Ruud M; Haaring, Cees; van der Pol, Carmen C; Witkamp, Arjen J; van den Bosch, Maurice A; Verkooijen, Helena M
Academic job satisfaction questionnaire: Construction and validation in Saudi Arabia
Background: Colleges and universities are becoming increasingly accountable for teaching outcomes in order to meet rigorous accreditation standards. Job satisfaction (JS) seems more difficult to measure in the academic field in view of the complexity of roles, duties and responsibilities. Objectives: To compile and determine the psychometric properties of a proposed Academic Job Satisfaction Questionnaire (AJSQ) suitable for university faculty, and amenable to future upgrading. Materials and Methods: A 46-item five-option Likert-type draft questionnaire on JS was distributed for anonymous self-reporting by all the academic staff of five colleges in University of Dammam (n=340). The outcome measures were (1) factor analysis of the questionnaire items, (2) intra-factor ?-Coefficient of Internal Consistency Reliability, (3) inter-factor correlations, (4) comparison of psychometric properties in separately analyzed main faculty subgroups. Results: The response rate was 72.9 percent. Factor analysis extracted eight factors which conjointly explained 60.3 percent of the variance in JS. These factors, in descending order of eigenvalue, were labeled �Authority�, �Supervision�, �Policies and Facilities�, �My Work Itself�, �Interpersonal Relationships�, �Commitment�, �Salary� and �Workload�. Cronbach's-? ranged from 0.90 in Supervision to 0.63 in Salary and Workload. All inter-factor correlations were positive and significant, ranging from 0.65 to 0.23. The psychometric properties of the instrument in separately analyzed subgroups divided by sex, nationality, college and clinical duties produced fairly comparable findings. Conclusion: The AJSQ demonstrated good overall psychometric properties in terms of construct validity and internal consistency reliability in both the overall sample and its separately analyzed subgroups. Recommendation: To replicate these findings in larger multicenter samples of academic staff. PMID:21694952
Al-Rubaish, Abdullah M.; Rahim, Sheikh Idris A.; Abumadini, Mahdi S.; Wosornu, Lade
Setting up a life course questionnaire.
In order to give a practical meaning to a concept, it is necessary to measure it. In this chapter, some guidelines for the creation of a life course questionnaire are given, starting from the concept of measurement and all the properties (validity, reliability, responsiveness and interpretability) that an instrument must have, to be defined as a measurement tool. The first step is to define the construct to be measured. Cumulative life course impairment (CLCI) assumes impairment over time of the life course of individuals; key concepts of CLCI are accumulation of risk as well as timing of risk exposure. CLCI is a longitudinal construct, and in order to measure it, it is imperative to take the role of time into account. Questionnaires administered at a certain moment during the patient's life will investigate the impact the disease had on his/her life from the beginning until that moment. Items to be assessed in patients suffering from chronic condition will be, among others, physical and psychological comorbidities, feelings of stigmatization and coping style. Together with the given personality, and other personal and clinical characteristics, they may contribute to changes in the life trajectory compared to a hypothetical 'unaffected average life course'. At the end of the chapter, an example of life course questionnaire is proposed. PMID:23796810
Sampogna, Francesca
K. Stromswold, 2003 Perinatal Factors Questionnaire (Singleton Version) 1 PERINATAL FACTORS & DEVELOPMENT QUESTIONNAIRE (Singleton Version)
� K. Stromswold, 2003 Perinatal Factors Questionnaire (Singleton Version) 1 PERINATAL FACTORS & DEVELOPMENT QUESTIONNAIRE (Singleton Version) Person completing questionnaire: Today's date: Mailing Address E completing this questionnaire, please contact Ellyn Sheffield by phone (732-445-5231) or email (sheffield
Stromswold, Karin
Using Presence Questionnaires in Reality Using Presence Questionnaires in Reality
, Ernest Catena, Sima Arman, Mel Slater Department of Computer Science University College London Gower different presence question- naires can distinguish between real and virtual experiences. One group of 10 subjects were given two different presence questionnaires in randomised order: the Witmer and Singer
Slater, Mel
Validity and Reliability of the School Physical Activity Environment Questionnaire
The goal of the current study was to establish the factor validity of the Questionnaire Assessing School Physical Activity Environment (Robertson-Wilson, L�vesque, & Holden, 2007) using confirmatory factor analysis procedures. Another goal was to establish internal reliability and test�retest reliability. The confirmatory factor analysis results of this study supported a slightly altered version of the Questionnaire Assessing School Physical Activity
Jeffrey J. Martin; Nate McCaughtry; Sara Flory; Anne Murphy; Kimberlydawn Wisdom
Reliability of a multidimensional questionnaire for adults with treated complete cleft lip and palate.
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the reliability of a multidimensional questionnaire for Swedish adults with treated complete unilateral or bilateral cleft lip and palate (CLP). The questionnaire was designed to be used in the evaluation of adults with treated CLP after treatment. Before any conclusions were drawn from the results of the study we assessed the test-retest reliability of the questionnaire. The questionnaire included 168 questions and assessed the following domains: aesthetics, functions associated with CLP, satisfaction with treatment and perceived need for treatment, quality of life, depression and non-specific physical symptoms, body image, and jaw function. The subjects answered the questionnaire twice at a 2-3-week interval. Sixty-one adults (38 men, 23 women) mean age 24 years (range 20-29) participated in the study. The response rate for the questionnaire was acceptable at 75%. The test-retest reliability varied among the different domains. The reliability of questions regarding aesthetics, functions associated with CLP, and treatment satisfaction was good to excellent (intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) = 0.51 to 0.89). Good to excellent (ICC = 0.61 to 1.0) reliability was also found for the quality of life in various life domains and the wellbeing scales. The reliability of the body image scale was moderate (kappa = 0.43-0.60) for most items and lower than that of other scales used in this study. The reliability of the mean depression symptom score (ICC = 0.93) and the mean non-specific physical symptoms score (ICC = 0.85) were excellent. The reliability of the mandibular function impairment was good (ICC = 0.67). The conclusion of the study is that an overall reliability was good for the multidimensional questionnaire. PMID:11680395
Marcusson, A; List, T; Paulin, G; Akerlind, I
Offering Results to Participants in a Diabetes Survey: Effects on Survey Response Rates
Background:Background: There are many reasons why an investigator may choose to share results with survey respondents; however, the practice is not universal. Moreover, while there is some evidence that the practice increases response rates, it is of limited generalizability. Abstract: Objective:Objective: The aim of this study was to determine both the impact on survey response rates of offering study results
Jeanette Y. Ziegenfuss; Nilay D. Shah; James R. Deming; Holly K. Van Houten; Steven A. Smith; Timothy J. Beebe
Response of the middle atmosphere to CO2 doubling: results from the Canadian
Response of the middle atmosphere to CO2 doubling: results from the Canadian Middle Atmosphere9393BE647 #12;Response of the Middle Atmosphere to CO2 Doubling: Results from the Canadian Middle Atmosphere Model V. I. FOMICHEV,* A. I. JONSSON,* J. DE GRANDPR�?, S. R. BEAGLEY,* C. MCLANDRESS,# K. SEMENIUK
Wirosoetisno, Djoko
Measuring change over time: a comparison of results from a global single item of health status and the multi-dimensional SF36 health status survey questionnaire in patients presenting with menorrhagia
This paper compares the sensitivity to change of a multi-item, multi-dimensional health status measure with a single global health status question, in the assessment of treatment for menorrhagia. A cohort study of patients recruited by general practitioners, was carried out, with a follow up at eighteen months. Questionnaires were administered postally at baseline and follow up. General practices in Berkshire,
C. Jenkinson; V. Peto; A. Coulter
Five-shot questionnaire on heavy drinking.
To develop an effective, but short, questionnaire to detect heavy drinking, we combined two questions from AUDIT and three from CAGE. We have tested earlier this new Five-Shot questionnaire among male alcoholics who all had a total score of at least 4/7. The purpose of the present study was to find out the effectiveness of the Five-Shot questionnaire among middle-aged men. In the present study, the Five-Shot questionnaire was distributed to all (n = 853) 40-year-old men attending health screening in a Finnish town. The participation percentage in the screening was 70.3%. Self-reported alcohol consumption was used as a gold standard; 557 of these men gave a self-report that they consumed less absolute alcohol than 140 g/week (moderate drinkers), and 70 reported consuming > or = 280 g/week (heavy drinkers). None of the individual Five-Shot questions was superior to any other in detecting heavy drinkers. The cut-off point > or = 3 for Five-Shot gave a 77% sensitivity in detecting heavy drinkers, with a specificity of 83% and an overall accuracy of 83%. The corresponding figures with > or = 2.5 cut-off were 96%, 76%, and 78%. The commonly used cut-off for CAGE, > or = 2, gave a result of 47%, 87%, and 83%, respectively. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for the CAGE was clearly worse, compared with that of the Five-Shot. The new Five-Shot questionnaire seems to be efficient in differentiating between moderate and heavy drinkers. It is also easy and fast for physicians to use in different health-care settings. Thus, it can serve as a good aid in early detection of heavy drinking. PMID:9835296
Sepp�, K; Lepist�, J; Sillanaukee, P
A mathematical method for analysing questionnaires*
Investigators using questionnaires are usually confronted with an enormous number of different responses whose significance with respect to a particular characteristic is not immediately clear. This paper presents a simple computational technique for determining the relative merits of each question and a score for each respondent. The rationalization for and the formalization of the method are discussed and some practical examples illustrate how it can be used. The strengths and weaknesses of the method are discussed in relation to those of other methods. PMID:4538910
Levine, A.; Roizen, P.; Roz�, P.; Christensen, H.
Schooling of the patients and clinical application of questionnaires in osteoarthitis
Objective: To evaluate the consistency of the questionnaires (WOMAC, Lequesne, VAS, SF 36-PCS and SF 36-MCS) when applied in patients with osteoarthritis of the knees (KOA) verifying if age and level of education interfere with the completion of the questionnaires. Method: One hundred and two patients with KOA answered WOMAC, LESQUESNE, VAS and SF-36 questionnaires and provided data correlated with age and education. The internal consistency of the WOMAC questionnaire was verified with Cronbach's alpha. Pearson's correlations between the questionnaires, age and educational level was performed. Results: Mean age was 65 years old. Schooling averaged 7.94 years; WOMAC 47.95; VAS 63.57; Lequesne 12.29; PCS and MCS 31.91 43.68. Cronbach's alpha for WOMAC 0.9. Education did not affect WOMAC response (r=-0.182, p = 0.067) and MCS (r=0.021 / p=0.835), but showed weak but significant correlation with VAS (r=-0.264 / p=0.007), Lequesne (r=0.277, p=0.005) and PCS (r=0.309/ p=0.002). Age showed significant direct correlation only with PCS (r=0.205, p=0.039). Conclusion: The level of education does not interfere with the completion of WOMAC but may interfere with completing VAS, Lequesne and physical component of SF-36. Level of Evidence II, Retrospective Study. PMID:25328433
Campos, Gustavo Constantino De; Kohara, Marcelo Tomio; Rezende, Marcia Uchoa; Santana, Olga Fugiko Magashima; Moreira, Merilu Marins; Camargo, Olavo Pires De
Psychometric analysis of the Stunkard-Messick Eating Questionnaire (SMEQ) and Comparison with the dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire (DEBQ)
The factor structure of the Stunkard-Messick Eating Questionnaire (SMEQ) differs from that of the Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire\\u000a (DEBQ). Using students and members of a weight watchers club, we factor-analyzed responses to the SMEQ and produced a solution\\u000a which was different from that obtained by Stunkard and Messick, but which had some similarities to the factor structure of\\u000a the DEBQ.
Michael E. Hyland; Sidney H. Irvine; Clive Thacker; Peter L. Dann; Ian Dennis
School of Informatics Course Questionnaire
return your completed feedback form to the course lecturer or directly to the Informatics Teaching: http://www.inf.ed.ac.uk/admin/ITO/questionnaires You can also provide feedback directly to your Evaluation Please rate the course according to the following attributes, on a scale from 1 to 5. Workload
Koehn, Philipp
Efficiency of split questionnaire surveys
We consider a general design that allows information for different patterns, or sets, of data items to be collected from different sample units, which we call a Split Questionnaire Design (SQD). While SQDs have been historically used to accommodate constraints on respondent burden, this paper shows they can also be an efficient design option. The efficiency of a design can
James O. Chipperfield; David G. Steel
Exit Interview Questionnaire Employee's Name
Exit Interview Questionnaire Employee's Name: Department/Unit: Position Title: Date Hired Good Poor Very Poor Comments: #12;Job satisfaction Very High High Average Low Very Low Comments: Overall satisfaction with Memorial as an employer Very High High Average Low Very Low Comments: Overall
Oyet, Alwell
Energy Balance Survey: Adult Questionnaire
The Physician Survey of Practices on Diet, Physical Activity, and Weight Control -- Adult Questionnaire is sponsored by the National Cancer Institute in collaboration with the Office of Behavioral and Social Sciences Research, the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Lifestyle Questionnaire Patient Name:______________________________________ Date:_________________
:_________________ If it is determined that surgery is appropriate for you, this questionnaire will help us provide the best treatment for some activities after surgery. Please fill this form out completely and turn in to your technician. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions. 1. After surgery, would you be interested
Development of a quality of life questionnaire for adults with strabismus
Purpose We report the development of a patient-derived, health related quality of life (HRQOL) questionnaire for adults with strabismus. Design Cross-sectional study. Participants 29 patients with strabismus in a first phase, and 32 patients with strabismus, 18 patients with other eye diseases, and 13 visually normal adults in a second phase. Methods Individual patient interviews generated 181 questionnaire items. For item reduction, we asked 29 patients with strabismus to complete the 181-item questionnaire, analyzed responses, and performed factor analysis. Two prominent factors were identified, and the 10 items with the highest correlation with each factor were selected. The final 20-item questionnaire (10 �psychosocial� items, 10 �function� items) was administered to an additional 32 patients with strabismus (22 with diplopia, 10 without diplopia), 13 visually normal adults, and 18 patients with other eye diseases. A 5-point Likert-type scale was used for responses (�never�=100, �rarely�=75, �sometimes�=50, �often�=25, and �always�=0). Median overall questionnaire scores and psychosocial and function sub-scale scores, ranging from 0 (worst HRQOL) to 100 (best HRQOL), were compared across groups. Main Outcome Measures HRQOL questionnaire response scores. Results Median overall scores were statistically significantly lower (worse quality of life) for patients with strabismus (56) compared to visually normal adults (95; P<0.001) and patients with other eye diseases (86; P<0.001). Median scores on the psychosocial sub-scale were significantly lower for strabismus patients (69) compared to visually normal adults (99; P<0.001) and patients with other eye diseases (94; P<0.001). For the function sub-scale, median scores were again significantly lower for strabismus patients (43) compared to visually normal adults (91; P<0.001) and patients with other eye diseases (78; P<0.001). Conclusions We have developed a 20-item, patient-derived HRQOL questionnaire specific for adults with strabismus, with sub-scales to assess psychosocial and function concerns. This 20-item, condition specific questionnaire will be useful for assessing HRQOL in individual strabismus patients and also as an outcome measure for clinical trials. PMID:19019449
Hatt, Sarah R.; Leske, David A.; Bradley, Elizabeth A.; Cole, Stephen R.; Holmes, Jonathan M.
Sexual behavioral abstine HIV/AIDS questionnaire: Validation study of an Iranian questionnaire
Background: This study was designed to assess the validity and reliability of the designed sexual, behavioral abstinence, and avoidance of high-risk situation questionnaire (SBAHAQ), with an aim to construct an appropriate development tool in the Iranian population. Materials and Methods: A descriptive�analytic study was conducted among female undergraduate students of Tehran University, who were selected through cluster random sampling. After reviewing the questionnaires and investigating face and content validity, internal consistency of the questionnaire was assessed by Cronbach's alpha. Explanatory and confirmatory factor analysis was conducted using SPSS and AMOS 16 Software, respectively. Results: The sample consisted of 348 female university students with a mean age of 20.69 � 1.63 years. The content validity ratio (CVR) coefficient was 0.85 and the reliability of each section of the questionnaire was as follows: Perceived benefit (PB; 0.87), behavioral intention (BI; 0.77), and self-efficacy (SE; 0.85) (Cronbach's alpha totally was 0.83). Explanatory factor analysis showed three factors, including SE, PB, and BI, with the total variance of 61% and Kaiser�Meyer�Olkin (KMO) index of 88%. These factors were also confirmed by confirmatory factor analysis [adjusted goodness of fitness index (AGFI) = 0.939, root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) = 0.039]. Conclusion: This study showed the designed questionnaire provided adequate construct validity and reliability, and could be adequately used to measure sexual abstinence and avoidance of high-risk situations among female students. PMID:24741650
Najarkolaei, Fatemeh Rahmati; Niknami, Shamsaddin; Shokravi, Farkhondeh Amin; Tavafian, Sedigheh Sadat; Fesharaki, Mohammad Gholami; Jafari, Mohammad Reza
Household Responses to School Closure Resulting from Outbreak of Influenza B, North Carolina
School closure is a proposed strategy for reducing influenza transmission during a pandemic. Few studies have assessed how families respond to closures, or whether other interactions during closure could reduce this strategy�s effect. Questionnaires were administered to 220 households (438 adults and 355 children) with school-age children in a North Carolina county during an influenza B virus outbreak that resulted in school closure. Closure was considered appropriate by 201 (91%) households. No adults missed work to solely provide childcare, and only 22 (10%) households required special childcare arrangements; 2 households incurred additional costs. Eighty-nine percent of children visited at least 1 public location during the closure despite county recommendations to avoid large gatherings. Although behavior and attitudes might differ during a pandemic, these results suggest short-term closure did not cause substantial hardship for parents. Pandemic planning guidance should address the potential for transmission in public areas during school closure. PMID:18598620
Moore, Zack S.; Edelson, Paul J.; Kinnane, Lynda; Davies, Megan; Shay, David K.; Balish, Amanda; McCarron, Meg; Blanton, Lenee; Finelli, Lyn; Averhoff, Francisco; Bresee, Joseph; Engel, Jeffrey; Fiore, Anthony
Validation of the Revised Stressful Life Event Questionnaire Using a Hybrid Model of Genetic Algorithm and Artificial Neural Networks
Objectives. Stressors have a serious role in precipitating mental and somatic disorders and are an interesting subject for many clinical and community-based studies. Hence, the proper and accurate measurement of them is very important. We revised the stressful life event (SLE) questionnaire by adding weights to the events in order to measure and determine a cut point. Methods. A total of 4569 adults aged between 18 and 85 years completed the SLE questionnaire and the general health questionnaire-12 (GHQ-12). A hybrid model of genetic algorithm (GA) and artificial neural networks (ANNs) was applied to extract the relation between the stressful life events (evaluated by a 6-point Likert scale) and the GHQ score as a response variable. In this model, GA is used in order to set some parameter of ANN for achieving more accurate results. Results. For each stressful life event, the number is defined as weight. Among all stressful life events, death of parents, spouse, or siblings is the most important and impactful stressor in the studied population. Sensitivity of 83% and specificity of 81% were obtained for the cut point 100. Conclusion. The SLE-revised (SLE-R) questionnaire despite simplicity is a high-performance screening tool for investigating the stress level of life events and its management in both community and primary care settings. The SLE-R questionnaire is user-friendly and easy to be self-administered. This questionnaire allows the individuals to be aware of their own health status. PMID:23476715
Sali, Rasoul; Roohafza, Hamidreza; Sadeghi, Masoumeh; Andalib, Elham; Shavandi, Hassan; Sarrafzadegan, Nizal
Development of a Preference-Based Index from the National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire-25
Importance 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. Objective 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. Design Non-intervention, cross-sectional study. Setting General community in four countries (Australia, Canada, United Kingdom, and United States) Participants 607 adult participants recruited from local newspaper advertisements. In the United Kingdom, an existing database of participants from previous studies was used for recruitment. Interventions Eight out of 15,625 possible health states from the Visual Function Questionnaire-Utility Index were valued using time trade-off technique. Main Outcome Measures A theta 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. Results Health state preference values for the 8 states ranged from 0.343 (standard deviation, 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 continuum from full health to dead. Conclusions and Relevance Visual Function Questionnaire-Utility Index health state classification produces health preference scores that can be estimated in vision-related studies that include National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire-25. These preference scores may be of value for estimating utilities in economic and health policy analyses. PMID:24435696
Rentz, Anne M.; Kowalski, Jonathan W.; Walt, John G.; Hays, Ron D.; Brazier, John E.; Yu, Ren; Lee, Paul; Bressler, Neil; Revicki, Dennis A.
Development of the Coping Strategies Questionnaire 24, a Clinically Utilitarian Version of the Coping Strategies Questionnaire
Objective: To use principal-components analysis to obtain a shorter and therefore more clinically useful version of the Coping Strategies Questionnaire (CSQ). Subjects: A British sample of 214 chronic back pain patients attending outpatient spinal assessment. Results: A 4-factor solution was discovered that incorporates Catastrophizing, Diversion, Cognitive Coping, and Reinterpreting factors. Apart from the absence of a Praying and Hoping factor,
Nicholas J. Harland; Karen Georgieff
Technology Transfer Automated Retrieval System (TEKTRAN)
de Guzman, L. I. & A. M. Frake. PRELIMINARY RESULTS ON THE REMOVAL RESPONSE OF RUSSIAN HONEY AGAINST BROOD INFESTED WITH SMALL HIVE BEETLES - Removal response of Russian (n = 9) and Italian (n = 9) honey bees against brood infested with small hive beetles (SHB) was compared. SHB-infested brood wer...
Usefulness of a psychometric questionnaire in exploring parental attitudes in children's dental care.
In this methodological study we investigated the usefulness and reliability of a questionnaire designed to capture 4 aspects of parental dental attitudes: dental knowledge, child oral health behavior, perceived importance of dental related aims, and parental responsibility. The study was undertaken in a group of 140 parents of schoolchildren aged 8-12 years from four comprehensive schools in Sweden. Test-retest reliability, quantified by the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) or by Cohen's kappa, varied from acceptable to excellent for different aspects of the questionnaire. The knowledge and responsibility-taking sections were also answered by a group of dental experts who showed a high level of internal agreement. Expert profiles, to which the parental assessments could be compared, were created. Exploration of the 4 aspects showed that this group of parents commonly had a multifocal view on the etiology and prevention of caries. Correlations between their knowledge assessments and the assessments made by the expert group varied from moderately negative to strongly positive. The parents revealed a high degree of dental-related motivation and responsibility, particularly according to oral health behaviors. In conclusion, the results indicate that this 4-part psychometric questionnaire might be a suitable instrument in investigations of priority and responsibility-taking as new aspects of parental dental attitudes, along with dental knowledge and child oral health behaviors. PMID:11318040
Arnrup, K; Berggren, U; Broberg, A G
The Verbalizer-Visualizer Questionnaire: a review.
The psychometric properties of Richardson's 1977 Verbalizer-Visualizer Questionnaire have been studied by analyzing papers in which this questionnaire was employed. Such review showed that the Verbalizer-Visualizer Questionnaire does not measure a unidimensional construct and does not predict the actual use of mental imagery in thinking. Further, a lack of long-term reliability of the questionnaire emerged. In conclusion, use of the questionnaire to assess the verbal-visual cognitive style appears questionable. PMID:9530739
Antonietti, A; Giorgetti, M
Predictive validity of the Readiness to Change Questionnaire.
Following the development of the Readiness to Change Questionnaire described by Rollnick et al., this article reports on the predictive validity of the questionnaire among a sample of 174 male excessive drinkers identified by screening on wards of general hospitals. Relationships between patients' "stage of change" derived from questionnaires administered prior to discharge from hospital and changes in drinking behaviour at 8 weeks and 6 months follow-up are analysed. Allocated stage of change provided statistically significant relationships with drinking outcome. Multiple regression analysis showed that stage of change remained a significant predictor of changes in alcohol consumption when other possible predictors were taken into account. Two methods for allocating stage of change on the basis of questionnaire responses for use in different circumstances, a "quick" and a "refined" method, are described. PMID:8130706
Heather, N; Rollnick, S; Bell, A
Pediatric environmental health: perceptions from a survey questionnaire.
To expand the base of knowledge regarding perceptions about potential environmental threats to children's health, a survey was conducted in the Northwest United States. Samples of Head Start parents, PTA presidents, public health officials, school nurses, naturopathic physicians, family practitioners, and pediatricians were mailed a questionnaire inquiring into the nature and degree of concerns about pediatric environmental health. The response rate was 24%. Trends in the data showed disparities in perceptions regarding levels of concern and exposure concerns between respondent categories. Disparities also existed regarding information resources used for children's environmental health. Recognizing differences in perceptions of children's environmental health, as demonstrated in these results, may be useful for risk communication and resource allocation, especially in the context of the wide variety of health belief models. Such knowledge may help clarity situations with environmental health risk concerns, including clinical, public health, and educational circumstances. PMID:11210011
Chai, S K; Robertson, W O; Takaro, T; Hagopian, A; Beaudet, N; Sechena, R; Martin, T; Simpson, L; Barnhart, S
The Attitudes to Ageing Questionnaire: Mokken Scaling Analysis
Background Hierarchical scales are useful in understanding the structure of underlying latent traits in many questionnaires. The Attitudes to Ageing Questionnaire (AAQ) explored the attitudes to ageing of older people themselves, and originally described three distinct subscales: (1) Psychosocial Loss (2) Physical Change and (3) Psychological Growth. This study aimed to use Mokken analysis, a method of Item Response Theory, to test for hierarchies within the AAQ and to explore how these relate to underlying latent traits. Methods Participants in a longitudinal cohort study, the Lothian Birth Cohort 1936, completed a cross-sectional postal survey. Data from 802 participants were analysed using Mokken Scaling analysis. These results were compared with factor analysis using exploratory structural equation modelling. Results Participants were 51.6% male, mean age 74.0 years (SD 0.28). Three scales were identified from 18 of the 24 items: two weak Mokken scales and one moderate Mokken scale. (1) �Vitality� contained a combination of items from all three previously determined factors of the AAQ, with a hierarchy from physical to psychosocial; (2) �Legacy� contained items exclusively from the Psychological Growth scale, with a hierarchy from individual contributions to passing things on; (3) �Exclusion� contained items from the Psychosocial Loss scale, with a hierarchy from general to specific instances. All of the scales were reliable and statistically significant with �Legacy� showing invariant item ordering. The scales correlate as expected with personality, anxiety and depression. Exploratory SEM mostly confirmed the original factor structure. Conclusions The concurrent use of factor analysis and Mokken scaling provides additional information about the AAQ. The previously-described factor structure is mostly confirmed. Mokken scaling identifies a new factor relating to vitality, and a hierarchy of responses within three separate scales, referring to vitality, legacy and exclusion. This shows what older people themselves consider important regarding their own ageing. PMID:24892302
Shenkin, Susan D.; Watson, Roger; Laidlaw, Ken; Starr, John M.; Deary, Ian J.
The development of a questionnaire to describe science teacher communication behavior in Taiwan and Australia
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Teachers contribute enormously to a positive social climate in science classes, particularly through their communication with students. This article describes the development and validation of a questionnaire, the Teacher Communication Behavior Questionnaire (TCBQ) (see pp. 723-726), which assesses student perceptions of the following five important teacher behaviors: Challenging, Encouragement and Praise, Non-Verbal Support, Understanding and Friendly, and Controlling. The TCBQ was administered to 1202 students from 30 classes in Taiwan and to 301 students from 12 classes in Australia. The reliability and factorial validity of the TCBQ were found to be satisfactory for both the Taiwanese and Australian data. To further validate the questionnaire and understand the differences in teacher behavior according to the perceptions of students from the two countries, a qualitative approach was used. Students were interviewed (two from each of five classes) in both Taiwan and Australia. The interview questions focused on these students' responses to selected questionnaire items. The results obtained from the interviews supported and helped explain the quantitative results. In an application of the TCBQ in both countries, students' perceptions on four of the scales of the TCBQ were associated with their attitudes to their science classes.
She, Hsiao-Ching; Fisher, Darrell
Development and Validation of a Family History Screening Questionnaire in Australian Primary Care
PURPOSE We aimed to validate a family history screening questionnaire in an Australian primary care population designed to identify people at increased risk for breast, ovarian, colorectal, and prostate cancer; melanoma; ischemic heart disease; and type 2 diabetes. METHODS We prospectively validated the questionnaire in 6 general practices in Perth, Western Australia among 526 patients aged 20 to 50 years who responded to a single invitation from their general practice. They completed the 15-item questionnaire before a reference standard 3-generation pedigree was obtained by a genetic counselor blinded to the questionnaire responses. We calculated diagnostic performance statistics for the questionnaire using the pedigree as the reference standard. RESULTS A combination of 9 questions had the following diagnostic performance, expressed as value (95% CI), to identify increased risk of any of the 7 conditions: area under the receiver operating characteristic curve 84.6% (81.2%�88.1%), 95% sensitivity (92%�98%), and 54% specificity (48%�60%). The combination of questions to detect increased risk had sensitivity of 92% (84%�99%) and 96% (93%�99%) for the 5 and 6 conditions applicable only to men and women, respectively. The specificity was 63% (28%�52%) for men and 49% (42%�56%) for women. The positive predictive values were 67% (56%�78%) and 68% (63%�73%), and the false-positive rates were 9% (0.5%�17%) and 9% (3%�15%) for men and women, respectively. CONCLUSIONS This simple family history screening questionnaire shows good performance for identifying primary care patients at increased disease risk because of their family history. It could be used in primary care as part of a systematic approach to tailored disease prevention. PMID:24821895
Emery, Jon D.; Reid, Gabrielle; Prevost, A. Toby; Ravine, David; Walter, Fiona M.
Translation validation of a new back pain screening questionnaire (the STarT Back Screening Tool) in French
Background Low back pain (LBP) is a major public health problem and the identification of individuals at risk of persistent LBP poses substantial challenges to clinical management. The STarT Back questionnaire is a validated nine-item patient self-report questionnaire that classifies patients with LBP at low, medium or high-risk of poor prognosis for persistent non-specific LBP. The objective of this study was to translate and cross-culturally adapt the English version of the STarT Back questionnaire into French. Methods The translation was performed using best practice translation guidelines. The following phases were performed: contact with the STarT Back questionnaire developers, initial translations (English into French), synthesis, back translations, expert committee review, test of the pre-final version on 44 individuals with LBP, final version. Results The linguistic translation required minor semantic alterations. The participants interviewed indicated that all items of the questionnaire were globally clear and comprehensible. However, 6 subjects (14%) wondered if two questions were related to back pain or general health. After discussion within the expert committee and with the developer of the STarT Back tool, it was decided to modify the questionnaire and to add a reference to back pain in these two questions. Conclusions The French version of the STarT Back questionnaire has been shown to be comprehensible and adapted to the French speaking general population. Investigations are now required to test the psychometric properties (reliability, internal and external validity, responsiveness) of this translated version of the questionnaire. PMID:22958224
Current trends in repair and rehabilitation of complete (acute) anterior cruciate ligament injuriesAnalysis of 1984 questionnaire completed by ACL Study Group
Results of a 21 question survey, taken at the ACL Study Group meeting in 1984, present a composite picture of current practices in ACL reconstruction and rehabilitation. Forty-four of the 50 questionnaires were returned. Responses represented views from knee sur geons in the United States, Canada, Australia, Sweden, and Switzerland. These results were compared with a report of a 1980
Thomas E. Bilko; Lonnie E. Paulos; John A. Feagin; Kenneth L. Lambert; H. Ray Cunningham
Analysis of consumers' preferences and behavior with regard to horse meat using a structured survey questionnaire.
In this study, a structured survey questionnaire was used to determine consumers' preferences and behavior with regard to horse meat at a horse meat restaurant located in Jeju, Korea, from October 1 to December 24, 2005. The questionnaire employed in this study consisted of 20 questions designed to characterize six general attributes: horse meat sensory property, physical appearance, health condition, origin, price, and other attributes. Of the 1370 questionnaires distributed, 1126 completed questionnaires were retained based on the completeness of the answers, representing an 82.2% response rate. Two issues were investigated that might facilitate the search for ways to improve horse meat production and marketing programs in Korea. The first step was to determine certain important factors, called principal components, which enabled the researchers to understand the needs of horse meat consumers via principal component analysis. The second step was to define consumer segments with regard to their preferences for horse meat, which was accomplished via cluster analysis. The results of the current study showed that health condition, price, origin, and leanness were the most critical physical attributes affecting the preferences of horse meat consumers. Four segments of consumers, with different demands for horse meat attributes, were identified: origin-sensitive consumers, price-sensitive consumers, quality and safety-sensitive consumers, and non-specific consumers. Significant differences existed among segments of consumers in terms of age, nature of work, frequency of consumption, and general level of acceptability of horse meat. PMID:20163664
Oh, Woon Yong; Lee, Ji Woong; Lee, Chong Eon; Ko, Moon Seok; Jeong, Jae Hong
Safety diagnosis in industrial work settings: The safety diagnosis questionnaire
While organizations are responsible for providing a safe work environment for their employees, it is oftentimes difficult to do so solely through safety engineering. Workers must also be aware of the hazards in their workplace and adjust their behavior to avoid risk. A �Safety Diagnosis Questionnaire� was developed to address the issue of human behavior in the work environment. It
Carl Graf Hoyos; Franz Ruppert
The quality of life questionnaire: A multidimensional measure
To date most measures of life quality have been based upon either community parameters or the perceived life satisfaction of individuals. The Quality of Life Questionnaire provides a more direct measure that is based upon an individual's response to several ecological domains. The domains are material well-being, physical well-being, personal growth, marital relations, parentchild relations, extended family relations, extra familial
David R. Evans; Joan E. Burns; Wendy E. Robinson; Owen J. Garrett
Design of psychosocial factors questionnaires: a systematic measurement approach
Background Evaluation of psychosocial factors requires instruments that measure dynamic complexities. This study explains the design of a set of questionnaires to evaluate work and non-work psychosocial risk factors for stress-related illnesses. Methods The measurement model was based on a review of literature. Content validity was performed by experts and cognitive interviews. Pilot testing was carried out with a convenience sample of 132 workers. Cronbach�s alpha evaluated internal consistency and concurrent validity was estimated by Spearman correlation coefficients. Results Three questionnaires were constructed to evaluate exposure to work and non-work risk factors. Content validity improved the questionnaires coherence with the measurement model. Internal consistency was adequate (?=0.85�0.95). Concurrent validity resulted in moderate correlations of psychosocial factors with stress symptoms. Conclusions Questionnaires� content reflected a wide spectrum of psychosocial factors sources. Cognitive interviews improved understanding of questions and dimensions. The structure of the measurement model was confirmed. PMID:22628068
Vargas, Ang�lica; Felknor, Sarah A
Senior High School Questionnaire. Appendix C.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
This was developed in collaboration with the White Bear Lake Senior High School Evaluation Committee to evaluate the school's flexible module scheduling program. It includes a questionnaire about the school and its program and a questionnaire form for interviews in the community. Part I of the high school questionnaire has 25 questions about the�
Welch, Wayne W.; And Others
A Brief Guide to Questionnaire Development
NSDL National Science Digital Library
This comprehensive guide leads the user step-by-step through questionnaire creation. Topics include preliminary considerations, writing the questionnaire items, issues that may come up when giving the questionnaire, statistical considerations, and references for further reading. This resource is intended for novice and professional evaluators.
Robert Frary
A Temperament Questionnaire for Early Adult Life
The construction of a temperament questionnaire for early adult life is described, utilizing the nine categories of the New York Longitudinal Study. A correlation matrix of the nine categories, as generated from the 140 item questionnaire, and a factor analysis are reported, and the significance of the factor is discussed. The questionnaire was administered to 70 young adult subjects of
Alexander Thomas; Mary Mittelman; Stella Chess; Sam J. Korn; Jacob Cohen
A Parent-Mediated Intervention That Targets Responsive Parental Behaviors Increases Attachment Behaviors in Children with ASD: Results from a Randomized Clinical Trial
The current study is a randomized clinical trial evaluating the efficacy of Focused Playtime Intervention (FPI) in a sample of 70 children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. This parent-mediated intervention has previously been shown to significantly increase responsive parental communication (Siller et al. in J Autism Dev Disord 43:540�555, 2013a). The current analyses focus on children�s attachment related outcomes. Results revealed that children who were randomly assigned to FPI showed bigger increases in attachment-related behaviors, compared to children assigned to the control condition. Significant treatment effects of FPI were found for both an observational measure of attachment-related behaviors elicited during a brief separation-reunion episode and a questionnaire measure evaluating parental perceptions of child attachment. The theoretical and clinical implications of these findings are discussed. PMID:24488157
Swanson, Meghan; Gerber, Alan; Hutman, Ted; Sigman, Marian
Family burden in inherited ichthyosis: creation of a specific questionnaire
Background The concept of individual burden, associated with disease, has been introduced recently to determine the �disability� caused by the pathology in the broadest sense of the word (psychological, social, economic, physical). Inherited ichthyosis belong to a large heterogeneous group of Mendelian Disorders of Cornification. Skin symptoms have a major impact on patients� Quality of Life but little is known about the burden of the disease on the families of patients. Objectives To develop and validate a specific burden questionnaire for the families of patients affected by ichthyosis. Methods Two steps were required. First, the creation of the questionnaire which followed a strict methodological process involving a multidisciplinary team and families. Secondarily, the validation of the questionnaire, including the assessment of its reliability, external validity, reproducibility and sensitivity, was carried out on a population of patients affected by autosomal recessive congenital ichthyosis. A population of parents of patients affected by ichthyosis was enrolled to answer the new questionnaire in association with the Short Form Q12 questionnaire (SF-12) and a clinical severity score was filled for each patient. Results Ninety four families were interviewed to construct the verbatim in order to create the questionnaire and a cognitive debriefing was realized. The concept of burden could be structured around five components: �economic�, �daily life�, �familial and personal relationship�, �work�, and �psychological impact�. As a result, �Family Burden Ichthyosis� (FBI) reproducible questionnaire of 25 items was created. Forty two questionnaires were analyzable for psychometric validation. Reliability (Cronbach�s alpha coefficient?=?0.89), reflected the good homogeneity of the questionnaire. The correlation between mental dimensions of the SF-12 and the FBI questionnaire was statistically significant which confirmed the external validity. The mean FBI score was 71.7?�?18.8 and a significant difference in the FBI score was shown between two groups of severity underlining a good sensitivity of the questionnaire. Conclusions The internal and external validity of the �FBI� questionnaire was confirmed and it is correlated to the severity of ichtyosis. Ichthyoses, and other chronic pathologies, are difficult to assess by clinical or Quality of Life aspects alone as their impact can be multidimensional. �FBI� takes them all into consideration in order to explain every angle of the handicap generated. PMID:23414570
�How Poor Are You?� � A Comparison of Four Questionnaire Delivery Modes for Assessing Socio-Economic Position in Rural Zimbabwe
Background Assessing socio-economic position can be difficult, particularly in developing countries. Collection of socio-economic data usually relies on interviewer-administered questionnaires, but there is little research exploring how questionnaire delivery mode (QDM) influences reporting of these indicators. This paper reports on results of a trial of four QDMs, and the effect of mode on poverty reporting. Methods This trial was nested within a community-randomised trial of an adolescent reproductive health intervention conducted in rural Zimbabwe. Participants were randomly allocated to one of four QDMs (three different self-administered modes and one interviewer-administered mode); a subset was randomly selected to complete the questionnaire twice. Questions covered three socio-economic domains: i) ownership of sellable and fixed assets; ii) ability to afford essential items; and iii) food sufficiency. Statistical analyses assessed the association between QDM and reporting of poverty, and compared the extent of response agreement between questionnaire rounds. Results 96% (n?=?1483) of those eligible took part; 395 completed the questionnaire twice. Reported levels of poverty were high. Respondents using self-administered modes were more likely to report being unable to afford essential items and having insufficient food. Among those completing the questionnaire twice using different modes, higher levels of poverty and food insufficiency were reported when they completed the questionnaire using a self-administered mode. Conclusion These data suggest that QDM plays a significant role in how different socio-economic indicators are reported, and reminds us to consider the mode of collection when identifying indicators to determine socio-economic position. PMID:24073230
Pascoe, Sophie J. S.; Hargreaves, James R.; Langhaug, Lisa F.; Hayes, Richard J.; Cowan, Frances M.
Organizational rationality, performance, and social responsibility: results from the hospital industry.
Drawing on stakeholder theory and Weber's distinction between formal and substantive rationality, we posit that: (1) for-profit organizations manage stakeholders in ways that result in the organization being more efficient and less socially responsible than organizations that are not as profit oriented, and (2) organizations with major corporate relationships that are not local manage stakeholders in a manner that results in the organization being more efficient and less socially responsible than organizations without such arrangements. We test these hypotheses with 1994 data on 4,705 of the nation's short-term general hospitals using two measures of hospital efficiency and four measures of social responsibility. Results confirm that for-profit hospitals and hospitals lacking local ties are managing stakeholder relationships in ways that increases the efficiency of these hospitals but decreases their social responsiveness. We conclude by speculating that organizational efficiency and social responsibility may be inversely related and then summarize some of the academic, managerial, and policy implications, with emphasis on the implications for stakeholder theory. PMID:12199493
Becker, Edmund R; Potter, Sharyn J
The Comparative Validity of Interactive Multimedia Questionnaires to Paper-Administered Questionnaires for Beverage Intake and Physical Activity: Pilot Study
Background Brief, valid, and reliable dietary and physical activity assessment tools are needed, and interactive computerized assessments (ie, those with visual cues, pictures, sounds, and voiceovers) can reduce administration and scoring burdens commonly encountered with paper-based assessments. Objective The purpose of this pilot investigation was to evaluate the comparative validity and reliability of interactive multimedia (IMM) versions (ie, IMM-1 and IMM-2) compared to validated paper-administered (PP) versions of the beverage intake questionnaire (BEVQ-15) and Stanford Leisure-Time Activity Categorical Item (L-Cat); a secondary purpose was to evaluate results across two education attainment levels. Methods Adults 21 years or older (n=60) were recruited to complete three laboratory sessions, separated by three to seven days in a randomly assigned sequence, with the following assessments�demographic information, two IMM and one paper-based (PP) version of the BEVQ-15 and L-Cat, health literacy, and an IMM usability survey. Results Responses across beverage categories from the IMM-1 and PP versions (validity; r=.34-.98) and the IMM-1 and IMM-2 administrations (reliability; r=.61-.94) (all P<.001) were significantly correlated. Paired t tests revealed significant differences in sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) grams and kcal (P=.02 and P=.01, respectively) and total beverage kcal (P=.03), on IMM-1 and IMM-2; however, comparative validity was demonstrated between IMM-2 and the PP version suggesting familiarization with the IMM tool may influence participant responses (mean differences: SSB 63 grams, SEM 87; P=.52; SSB 21 kcal, SEM 33; P=.48; total beverage 65 kcal, SEM 49; P=.19). Overall mean scores between the PP and both IMM versions of the L-Cat were different (both P<.001); however, responses on all versions were correlated (P<.001). Differences between education categories were noted at each L-Cat administration (IMM-1: P=.008; IMM-2: P=.001; PP: P=.002). Major and minor themes from user feedback suggest that the IMM questionnaires were easy to complete, and relevant to participants' typical beverage choices and physical activity habits. Conclusions In general, less educated participants consumed more total beverage and SSB energy, and reported less engagement in physical activity. The IMM BEVQ-15 appears to be a valid and reliable measure to assess habitual beverage intake, although software familiarization may increase response accuracy. The IMM-L-Cat can be considered reliable and may have permitted respondents to more freely disclose actual physical activity levels versus the paper-administered tool. Future larger-scale investigations are warranted to confirm these possibilities. PMID:24148226
Riebl, Shaun K; Paone, Allyson C; Hedrick, Valisa E; Zoellner, Jamie M; Estabrooks, Paul A
Reliability and validity of functional health status and health-related quality of life questionnaires in children with recurrent acute otitis media
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 ? 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
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.
Importance of hydro generation response resulting from the new thermal modeling -and required hydro modeling improvements
The improved modeling of thermal plant governor response results in reduced overall contribution of thermal plants to the correction of frequency and a corresponding increase in the contribution from hydro plants. This is especially critical in the WECC (western electricity coordinating council) because thermal plants are predominantly in the South, and most of the hydro generation is in the North.
Shawn Patterson
Stratospheric ozone response to sulfate geoengineering: Results from the Geoengineering Model
Stratospheric ozone response to sulfate geoengineering: Results from the Geoengineering Model for Atmospheric Research, Boulder, Colorado, USA Abstract Geoengineering with stratospheric sulfate aerosols has the experiments G3 and G4 of the Geoengineering Model Intercomparison Project. On average, the models simulate
Robock, Alan
Junior Electronics Workshops and Their Questionnaires Reviews
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
In this paper, a trial to educate electronics for both elementary pupils and junior-high students is reported. A �making your own radio� workshop for elementary kids features a paper-craft resonator made of toilet paper cores and an empty box of tissue papers as well as solder-less main radio circuit. For elder elementary and junior-high pupils, a workshop making a bat detector (an ultra-sonic receiver) is provided to help their summer vacation research. Both workshops are planned to enlarge students wishing to knock the door of electronics. Also, we report questionnaires results for those workshops and follow up research results for bat detector workshop. Those results show that both children and parents long for good experiences on science/electronics materials and these experiences are important for future human resources in scientific fields including analog electronics.
Muto, Cosy; Maruta, Shuichiro; Noyori, Kazumasa; Yanaida, Masashi
Use of frequency domain results in extreme response estimation of a tensioned riser
This work addresses the problem of efficiently estimating the extreme distributions for the response of a tensioned marine riser in a short-term storm condition. Response quantities such as moments and displacements may be significantly non-Gaussian mainly due to drag forces and varying wetted length of the riser in waves. Results from long nonlinear time domain simulations are usually needed in order to estimate the extreme response distributions with acceptable accuracy. The procedure proposed in this paper attempts to reduce the length of a nonlinear simulation by efficiently utilizing information gained from frequency domain analyses. The basic idea is to generate time series of linearized response by Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) of a response spectrum found from a frequency domain analysis, and then assume that the largest extremes in a nonlinear simulation will appear at the same time as found in the linear case. By choosing the harmonic component phase angles appropriately, consistent time series of wave parameters (elevation, velocities and accelerations) and response quantities can be computed. It is hence possible to carry out a nonlinear simulation that would give a response time history that is consistent to the linear and thereby also possible to analyze only the portions of the record that contain large extremes in the linear case. A tensioned steel riser is used to demonstrate the proposed procedure. The bending moment is studied in detail at two locations along the riser.The sample and extreme response distributions estimated from the simulated portions are compared to those found from the full length nonlinear simulations. The proposed procedure is shown to be efficient and reliable for the tensioned riser studied. The described method should also be applicable to other nonlinear slender marine structures, e.g. TLP tendons or flexible risers.
Passano, E. [SINTEF Structures and Concrete, Trondheim (Norway); Larsen, C.M. [Norwegian Inst. of Technology, Trondheim (Norway). Dept. of Marine Structures
Coconut fragrance and cardiovascular response to laboratory stress: results of pilot testing.
There is preliminary evidence that pleasant fragrances may alter response to stressors in different settings. This pilot study examined the effect of coconut fragrance on cardiovascular response to standard laboratory stressors. While inhaling coconut fragrance (n = 17) or air (n = 15), subjects performed a Stroop color-word task and a mental arithmetic task. Heart rate (HR), heart period variability (HPV) and blood pressure were measured during the 5-minute baseline, the task, and the recovery periods. The results indicated that subjects breathing coconut fragrance had higher HR and lower HPV than those who performed tasks while breathing air. HR response to mental arithmetic seemed to be blunted in the subjects breathing coconut; however, the lack of a difference in HPV seems to indicate that the blunting may be due to decreased sympathetic response, not decreased parasympathetic withdrawal under stress. Blood pressure recovery was slightly enhanced in subjects under coconut fragrance. Thus, the results of this pilot test suggest that coconut fragrance may alter cardiovascular activity both at rest and in response to stressors. Future experimentation should attempt to replicate and extend these findings in larger samples in clinical settings. PMID:21037456
Mezzacappa, Elizabeth Sibolboro; Arumugam, Uma; Chen, Sylvia Yue; Stein, Traci R; Oz, Mehmet; Buckle, Jane
Follow-up by mail in clinical trials: does questionnaire length matter?
In large clinical trials where outcome assessment is possible using questionnaires, it may be more cost-effective to mail them to patients than to conduct interviews in-person. However, nonresponse to mailed questionnaires reduces the effective sample size and can introduce bias. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials evaluating the effect of questionnaire length on response rates.
Phil Edwards; Ian Roberts; Peter Sandercock; Chris Frost
Systematic development and validation of a theory-based questionnaire to assess toddler feeding.
This paper describes the development and validation of a 27-item caregiver-reported questionnaire on toddler feeding. The development of the Toddler Feeding Behavior Questionnaire was based on a theory of interactive feeding that incorporates caregivers' responses to concerns about their children's dietary intake, appetite, size, and behaviors rather than relying exclusively on caregiver actions. Content validity included review by an expert panel (n = 7) and testing in a pilot sample (n = 105) of low-income mothers of toddlers. Construct validity and reliability were assessed among a second sample of low-income mothers of predominately African-American (70%) toddlers aged 12-32 mo (n = 297) participating in the baseline evaluation of a toddler overweight prevention study. Internal consistency (Cronbach's ?: 0.64-0.87) and test-retest (0.57-0.88) reliability were acceptable for most constructs. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses revealed 5 theoretically derived constructs of feeding: responsive, forceful/pressuring, restrictive, indulgent, and uninvolved (root mean square error of approximation = 0.047, comparative fit index = 0.90, standardized root mean square residual = 0.06). Statistically significant (P < 0.05) convergent validity results further validated the scale, confirming established relations between feeding behaviors, toddler overweight status, perceived toddler fussiness, and maternal mental health. The Toddler Feeding Behavior Questionnaire adds to the field by providing a brief instrument that can be administered in 5 min to examine how caregiver-reported feeding behaviors relate to toddler health and behavior. PMID:24068792
Hurley, Kristen M; Pepper, M Reese; Candelaria, Margo; Wang, Yan; Caulfield, Laura E; Latta, Laura; Hager, Erin R; Black, Maureen M
American society of nephrology quiz and questionnaire 2014: Acid-base and electrolyte disorders.
The Nephrology Quiz and Questionnaire remains an extremely popular session for attendees of the Annual Kidney Week Meeting of the American Society of Nephrology. Once again, in 2014 the conference hall was overflowing with audience members and eager quiz participants. Topics covered by the expert discussants included electrolyte and acid-base disorders, glomerular disease, ESRD/dialysis, and transplantation. Complex cases from each of these categories along with single-best-answer questions were prepared and submitted by the panel of experts. Before the meeting, program directors of United States nephrology training programs and nephrology fellows answered the questions using an Internet-based questionnaire. During the live session, members of the audience tested their knowledge and judgment on a series of case-oriented questions prepared and discussed by the experts. They compared their answers in real time using audience response devices with the answers of the nephrology fellows and training program directors. The correct and incorrect answers were then discussed after the audience responses and the results of the questionnaire were displayed. As always, the audience, lecturers, and moderators enjoyed this educational session. This article recapitulates the acid-base and electrolyte disorders portion of the session and reproduces its educational value for the readers of the Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology. Enjoy the clinical cases and expert discussions. PMID:25617429
Rosner, Mitchell H; Perazella, Mark A; Choi, Michael J
Response analysis and experimental results of holography-based modal Zernike wavefront sensor
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
The crosstalk problem inherent in holography based modal wavefront sensing (HMWS) becomes more severe with increasing aberrations of the incident beam. In this paper, the cause of crosstalk is theoretically revealed and then demonstrated using simulations. For extending the use of HMWS in correcting atmospheric turbulence introduced aberration, the sensor response is statistically analyzed with random aberrations created in accordance with the atmosphere turbulence model. The system parameters are optimized considering the turbulence strength and calibrated response curves are further used to improve the sensor performance. The simulation and first preliminary experimental results are shown for validating the method.
Dong, Shihao; Haist, Tobias; Osten, Wolfgang; Ruppel, Thomas; Sawodny, Oliver
Harmonic response of cylindrical and toroidal shells to an internal acoustic field. I - Theory. II - Results
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
In the first part of the present work concerning the coupled elastic and acoustic response of a system of cylindrical and toroidal shells enclosing an acoustic medium, the theoretical model for the cylindrical and toroidal segments' elastodynamics incorporates an elastic simulation based on transfer matrices, while the acoustic simulation adapts Green's function and curved surface elements. The coupled response is determined by the equilibrium of the acoustic pressure and internal elastic reactions of the shell, and compatibility between acoustic and elastic accelerations at the shell-fluid interface. The second part of this work obtains and discusses numerical results based on the theory for the cases of shell configurations having a plane of symmetry, as well as asymmetric ones. The inadequacy of beam theory in modeling the response of short, thin shell configurations at frequencies above the fundamental elastic resonance is demonstrated.
El-Raheb, M.; Wagner, P.
Quality Assessment of TPB-Based Questionnaires: A Systematic Review
Objective This review is aimed at assessing the quality of questionnaires and their development process based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB) change model. Methods A systematic literature search for studies with the primary aim of TPB-based questionnaire development was conducted in relevant databases between 2002 and 2012 using selected search terms. Ten of 1,034 screened abstracts met the inclusion criteria and were assessed for methodological quality using two different appraisal tools: one for the overall methodological quality of each study and the other developed for the appraisal of the questionnaire content and development process. Both appraisal tools consisted of items regarding the likelihood of bias in each study and were eventually combined to give the overall quality score for each included study. Results 8 of the 10 included studies showed low risk of bias in the overall quality assessment of each study, while 9 of the studies were of high quality based on the quality appraisal of questionnaire content and development process. Conclusion Quality appraisal of the questionnaires in the 10 reviewed studies was successfully conducted, highlighting the top problem areas (including: sample size estimation; inclusion of direct and indirect measures; and inclusion of questions on demographics) in the development of TPB-based questionnaires and the need for researchers to provide a more detailed account of their development process. PMID:24722323
Oluka, Obiageli Crystal; Nie, Shaofa; Sun, Yi
Factorial invariance of the Patient Health Questionnaire and Generalized Anxiety Disorder Questionnaire
Objectives The UK's Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) programme uses the Patient Health Questionnaire Depression Scale (PHQ-9; Kroenke, Spitzer, & Williams, 2001, J. Gen. Intern. Med., 16, 606) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7; Spitzer et al., 2006, Arch. Intern. Med., 166, 1092) to assess patients' symptoms of depression and anxiety respectively. Data are typically collected via telephone or face-to-face; however, no study has statistically investigated whether the questionnaires' items operate equivalently across these modes of data collection. This study aimed to address this omission. Methods & Results Questionnaire data from patients registered with an IAPT service in London (N = 23,672) were examined. Confirmatory factor analyses suggested that unidimensional factor structures adequately matched observed face-to-face and telephone data for the PHQ-9 and GAD-7. Invariance analyses revealed that while the PHQ-9 had equivalent factor loadings and latent means across data collection methods, the GAD-7 had equivalent factor loadings but unequal latent means. In support of the scales' convergent validity, positive associations between scores on the PHQ-9 and GAD-7 emerged. Conclusions With the exception of the GAD-7's latent means, the questionnaires' factor loadings and latent means were equivalent. This suggests that clinicians may meaningfully compare PHQ-9 data collected face-to-face and by telephone; however, such comparisons with the GAD-7 should be done with caution. Practitioner points The PHQ-9 and GAD-7's factor loadings were equivalent across data collection methods. Only the PHQ-9's latent means were equivalent across data collection methods. Clinicians may be confident collecting PHQ-9 data by telephone and face-to-face and, then, comparing such data. Caution is recommended when determining clinical effectiveness using telephone and face-to-face GAD-7 data. More psychometric research is warranted. PMID:24117915
Ryan, Travis A; Bailey, Alastair; Fearon, Pasco; King, John
In a sample of 140 adult nonsmokers recruited in New Mexico in 1966, the authors assessed the reliability of questionnaire response on lifetime exposure to tobacco smoke in the home. hey also compared urinary cotinine levels with questionnaire reports of environmental tobacco smo...
This data set includes responses for 163 food follow-up questionnaires. The food diary follow-up questionnaire was used to identify how the dietary patterns observed for study participants who had submitted duplicate diet samples and completed the associated food diary related to...
This data set includes responses for 249 follow-up questionnaires collected during the first week-long monitoring period. The Follow-up Questionnaire was used to provide information on relatively infrequent (e.g., less than daily) activities during the sampling period to explain ...
This data set includes responses for 249 time-activity diary questionnaires. The Time Diary and Activity Questionnaire was used for collecting data on detailed (daily) time and location information and activity patterns (for relatively frequent activities when recalling events ov...
This data set includes responses for 249 participants with a total of 444 follow-up questionnaires. Some participants were studied for more than one monitoring period. The Follow-up Questionnaire was used to provide information on relatively infrequent (e.g., less than daily) ac...
Temporomandibular disorders among Brazilian adolescents: reliability and validity of a screening questionnaire
Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) screeners assume significant item overlap with the screening questionnaire proposed by the American Academy of Orofacial Pain (AAOP). Objective To test the reliability and validity of the Portuguese version of AAOP questions for TMD screening among adolescents. Material and Methods Diagnoses from Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMD) Axis I were used as reference standard. Reliability was evaluated by internal consistency (KR-20) and inter-item correlation. Validity was tested by sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, accuracy and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, the relationship between the true-positive rate (sensitivity) and the false-positive rate (specificity). Test-retest reliability of AAOP questions and intra-examiner reproducibility of RDC/TMD Axis I were tested with kappa statistics. Results The sample consisted of 1307 Brazilian adolescents (56.8% girls; n=742), with mean age of 12.72 years (12.69 F/12.75 M). According to RDC/TMD, 397 [30.4% (32.7% F/27.3% M)] of adolescents presented TMD, of which 330 [25.2% (27.6% F/22.2% M)] were painful TMD. Because of low consistency, items #8 and #10 of the AAOP questionnaire were excluded. Remaining items (of the long questionnaire version) showed good consistency and validity for three positive responses or more. After logistic regression, items #4, #6, #7 and #9 also showed satisfactory consistency and validity for two or more positive responses (short questionnaire version). Both versions demonstrated excellent specificity (about 90%), but higher sensitivity for detecting painful TMD (78.2%). Better reproducibility was obtained for the short version (k=0.840). Conclusions The Portuguese version of AAOP questions showed both good reliability and validity for the screening of TMD among adolescents, especially painful TMD, according to RDC/TMD. PMID:25141204
FRANCO-MICHELONI, Ana Lucia; FERNANDES, Giovana; GON�ALVES, Daniela Aparecida de Godoi; CAMPARIS, Cinara Maria
Parent & Family Pulse Poll April 2014: Supporting Your Student Results (41 responses)
Parent & Family Pulse Poll � April 2014: Supporting Your Student Results (41 responses) My student a campus department to get information to help my student 36.6% 15 Read Parent & Family eNewsletter to keep Sophomore 29.3% 12 Junior 19.5% 8 Senior 9.8% 4 Grad student 0.0% 0 I have done the following to support my
Rock, Chris
[Factors affecting the occurrence and development of invasive meningococcal disease and development of Neisseria meningitis carrier state--results of a nationwide prospective questionnaire survey of cases and controls].
The nationwide prospective questionnaire study of cases and controls was implemented during the period from October 1996 till May 1998. Thirty-nine districts participated (= 54.2% of district hygiene stations) and 107 invasive meningococcal diseases were included in the study (= 76.9% of diseases recorded during the given period in the Czech Republic by active surveillance). A total of 390 subjects were included in the study-107 with invasive meningococcal diseases, 211 healthy controls and 72 healthy carriers of Neisseria meningitidis. This is the first study in the Czech Republic which analyzes comprehensively socioeconomic, health and stress factors in relation to the genesis and development of invasive meningococcal disease or carriership of N. meningitidis. The relationship between these factors and meningococcal disease or carriership was evaluated by the chi square test: odds ratio (OR) and statistical significance (p for chi square-Yates correction or Fischer's exact test). For the development of invasive meningococcal disease in particular, risk factors are significant (p < 0.05) which at the time weaken the overall resistance of the organism: febrile diseases, respiratory diseases, other diseases, exertion, exposure to cold, mental stress, other stress, injury, staying in places outside the home on brigades, training courses, stay in crowded premises. As to long-term factors the development of the disease is influenced by a contaminated environment, passive smoking and lower education of the mother which indicates a different lifestyle. Conversely, factors negatively correlated with the development of the disease are active participation in sports and favourable economic conditions. For death: significant risk factors (p < 0.05) are also factors which weaken the resistance of the organism: exertion, mental stress, other stress (= alcohol consumption), staying outside the home on brigades, training courses etc. For carriership risk factors are significant (p < 0.05) when the mucosal membranes of the upper airways are impaired (staying in a dusty environment, in smoke-filled rooms, contaminated atmosphere, active smoking, passive smoking) and factors where contact with other people is frequent (overcrowded rooms, multi-generation housing, use of public transport, staying outside the home on brigades, training courses etc.). A risk factor is also lower education of parents which indicates a different lifestyle. Conversely, factors negatively correlated with carriership are favourable economic conditions, frequent outdoor stay and active participation in sports. By comparison of factors significantly associated with the development of invasive meningococcal disease or carriership data are assembled for the implementation of effective preventive measures. PMID:10658342
Kr�zov�, P; Kr�z, B
Cognitive interviews guide design of a new CAM patient expectations questionnaire
Background No consistent relationship exists between pre-treatment expectations and therapeutic benefit from various complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies in clinical trials. However, many different expectancy measures have been used in those studies, with no validated questionnaires clearly focused on CAM and pain. We undertook cognitive interviews as part of a process to develop and validate such a questionnaire. Methods We reviewed questions about expectations of benefits of acupuncture, chiropractic, massage, or yoga for pain. Components of the questions � verbs, nouns, response options, terms and phrases describing back pain � were identified. Using seven different cognitive interview scripts, we conducted 39 interviews to evaluate how individuals with chronic low back pain understood these individual components in the context of expectancy questions for a therapy they had not yet received. Chosen items were those with the greatest agreement and least confusion among participants, and were closest to the meanings intended by the investigators. Results The questionnaire drafted for psychometric evaluation had 18 items covering various domains of expectancy. �Back pain� was the most consistently interpreted descriptor for this condition. The most understandable response options were 0-10 scales, a structure used throughout the questionnaire, with 0 always indicating no change, and 10 anchored with an absolute descriptor such as �complete relief�. The use of words to describe midpoints was found to be confusing. The word �expect� held different and shifting meanings for participants. Thus paired items comparing �hope� and �realistically expect� were chosen to evaluate 5 different aspects of treatment expectations (back pain; back dysfunction and global effects; impact of back pain on specific areas of life; sleep, mood, and energy; coping). �Impact of back pain� on various areas of life was found to be a consistently meaningful concept, and more global than �interference�. Conclusions Cognitive interviews identified wordings with considerable agreement among both participants and investigators. Some items widely used in clinical studies had different meanings to participants than investigators, or were confusing to participants. The final 18-item questionnaire is undergoing psychometric evaluation with goals of streamlining as well as identifying best items for use when questionnaire length is constrained. PMID:24460709
Dose response to vitamin D supplementation in African Americans: results of a 4-arm, randomized, placebo-controlled trial1234
Background: Association studies have suggested that lower circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] in African Americans may partially underlie higher rates of cardiovascular disease and cancer in this population. Nonetheless, the relation between vitamin D supplementation and 25(OH)D concentrations in African Americans remains undefined. Objective: Our primary objective was to determine the dose-response relation between vitamin D and plasma 25(OH)D. Design: A total of 328 African Americans in Boston, MA, were enrolled over 3 winters from 2007 to 2010 and randomly assigned to receive a placebo or 1000, 2000, or 4000 IU vitamin D3/d for 3 mo. Subjects completed sociodemographic and dietary questionnaires, and plasma samples were drawn at baseline and 3 and 6 mo. Results: Median plasma 25(OH)D concentrations at baseline were 15.1, 16.2, 13.9, and 15.7 ng/mL for subjects randomly assigned to receive the placebo or 1000, 2000, or 4000 IU/d, respectively (P = 0.63). The median plasma 25(OH)D concentration at 3 mo differed significantly between supplementation arms at 13.7, 29.7, 34.8, and 45.9 ng/mL, respectively (P < 0.001). An estimated 1640 IU vitamin D3/d was needed to raise the plasma 25(OH)D concentration to ?20 ng/mL in ?97.5% of participants, whereas a dose of 4000 IU/d was needed to achieve concentrations ?33 ng/mL in ?80% of subjects. No significant hypercalcemia was seen in a subset of participants. Conclusions: Within African Americans, an estimated 1640 IU vitamin D3/d was required to achieve concentrations of plasma 25(OH)D recommended by the Institute of Medicine, whereas 4000 IU/d was needed to reach concentrations predicted to reduce cancer and cardiovascular disease risk in prospective observational studies. These results may be helpful for informing future trials of disease prevention. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00585637. PMID:24368437
Ng, Kimmie; Scott, Jamil B; Drake, Bettina F; Chan, Andrew T; Hollis, Bruce W; Chandler, Paulette D; Bennett, Gary G; Giovannucci, Edward L; Gonzalez-Suarez, Elizabeth; Meyerhardt, Jeffrey A; Emmons, Karen M; Fuchs, Charles S
Principle component analyses of questionnaires measuring individual differences in synaesthetic phenomenology.
Questionnaires have been developed for categorising grapheme-colour synaesthetes into two sub-types based on phenomenology: associators and projectors. The general approach has been to assume a priori the existence of two sub-types on a single dimension (with endpoints as projector and associator) rather than explore, in a data-driven fashion, other possible models. We collected responses from 175 grapheme-colour synaesthetes on two questionnaires, the Illustrated Synaesthetic Experience Questionnaire (Skelton, Ludwig, & Mohr, 2009) and Rouw and Scholte's (2007) Projector-Associator Questionnaire. After Principle Component Analysis both questionnaires were comprised of two factors which coincide with the projector/associator distinction. This suggests that projectors and associators are not opposites of each other, but separate dimensions of experience (e.g. some synaesthetes claim to be both, others claim to be neither). The revised questionnaires provide a useful tool for researchers and insights into the phenomenology of synaesthesia. PMID:25703387
Anderson, Hazel P; Ward, Jamie
Respiratory symptoms questionnaire for asthma epidemiology: validity and reproducibility.
BACKGROUND: There is a need for a new respiratory symptoms questionnaire for use in epidemiological research in asthma. METHOD: A questionnaire was designed following a pilot study in 78 subjects. It contains nine questions on symptoms such as wheeze and difficulty with breathing in defined circumstances such as exercise and sleep. It was completed by 211 adults and validated by comparison with a self reported history of asthma and with bronchial hyperresponsiveness to histamine. Its short term reproducibility was measured by three repeat administrations over two weeks. RESULTS: Subjects with asthma (n = 33), particularly those having had an asthma attack in the last year (n = 23), were more likely to report any symptom and to report a greater number of symptoms than those without asthma. The same relationship was found for bronchial hyperresponsiveness and symptoms. Either two or more, or three or more, symptoms appeared to be good indices of self reported asthma and bronchial hyperresponsiveness, or both, with a high sensitivity (65-91%) and specificity (85-96%). Reproducibility was good, with few subjects changing the number of symptoms reported by more than one symptom and none by more than four symptoms. The results compared favourably with those from questions on phlegm production from the MRC questionnaire and were better than those reported for the MRC wheeze questions. CONCLUSIONS: The questionnaire will be useful for epidemiological research on asthma and could form part of a new standardised questionnaire with wide applications. PMID:8497818
Venables, K M; Farrer, N; Sharp, L; Graneek, B J; Newman Taylor, A J
Energy Balance Survey: Child Questionnaire
Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 20 minutes per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number.
Developing a Questionnaire on Attitude towards School
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
The purpose of the present study was to develop a questionnaire to assess student attitudes towards school by describing the factors that affect these attitudes. For this purpose, a sample of 362 (11-13 years-old) elementary-school students was used. Both exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were carried out. The questionnaire consists of�
Seker, Hasan
Applying Learning Strategy Questionnaires: Problems and Possibilities
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
This article discusses measuring learning strategies by means of questionnaires. In "multi-method" research, in which think-aloud measures are compared with questionnaires, low or moderate correlations are found. A conclusion often drawn is that learners are not able to verbally report on their learning activities. Alternative explanations concern�
Schellings, Gonny
Questionnaire Design: Asking Questions with a Purpose
NSDL National Science Digital Library
This short document guides the user through the stages of creating and implementing an effective questionnaire. The types of questions and how they should be worded are addressed, and many good examples of the different types of questions that could go into a questionnaire are presented. This resource is intended for novice evaluators.
Ellen Taylor-Powell
ORIGINAL PAPER The Broad Autism Phenotype Questionnaire
ORIGINAL PAPER The Broad Autism Phenotype Questionnaire Robert S. E. Hurley � Molly Losh � Morgan Phenotype Questionnaire (BAPQ), was administered to 86 parents of autistic individuals and 64 firstname.lastname@example.com J. S. Reznick Department of Psychology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599
van Lambalgen, Michiel
78 FR 59983 - Submission for Review: OPM Form 1203-FX, Occupational Questionnaire, 3206-0040
Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014
...technological collection techniques or other forms of information technology, e.g., permitting electronic submissions of responses...INFORMATION: The Occupational Questionnaire is an optical scan form designed to collect applicant information and...
78 FR 37245 - Submission for Review: OPM Form 1203-FX, Occupational Questionnaire
Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014
...technological collection techniques or other forms of information technology, e.g., permitting electronic submissions of responses...INFORMATION: The Occupational Questionnaire is an optical scan form designed to collect applicant information and...
Influence of Skip Patterns on Item Non-Response in a Substance Use Survey of 7th to 12th Grade Students
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
This retrospective case study assessed the influence of item non-response error on subsequent response to questionnaire items assessing adolescent alcohol and marijuana use. Post-hoc analyses were conducted on survey results obtained from 4,371 7th to 12th grade students in Ohio in 2005. A skip pattern design in a conventional questionnaire�
Ding, Kele; Olds, R. Scott; Thombs, Dennis L.
Impact of Length or Relevance of Questionnaires on Attrition in Online Trials: Randomized Controlled Trial
Background There has been limited study of factors influencing response rates and attrition in online research. Online experiments were nested within the pilot (study 1, n = 3780) and main trial (study 2, n = 2667) phases of an evaluation of a Web-based intervention for hazardous drinkers: the Down Your Drink randomized controlled trial (DYD-RCT). Objectives The objective was to determine whether differences in the length and relevance of questionnaires can impact upon loss to follow-up in online trials. Methods A randomized controlled trial design was used. All participants who consented to enter DYD-RCT and completed the primary outcome questionnaires were randomized to complete one of four secondary outcome questionnaires at baseline and at follow-up. These questionnaires varied in length (additional 23 or 34 versus 10 items) and relevance (alcohol problems versus mental health). The outcome measure was the proportion of participants who completed follow-up at each of two follow-up intervals: study 1 after 1 and 3 months and study 2 after 3 and 12 months. Results At all four follow-up intervals there were no significant effects of additional questionnaire length on follow-up. Randomization to the less relevant questionnaire resulted in significantly lower rates of follow-up in two of the four assessments made (absolute difference of 4%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0%-8%, in both study 1 after 1 month and in study 2 after 12 months). A post hoc pooled analysis across all four follow-up intervals found this effect of marginal statistical significance (unadjusted difference, 3%, range 1%-5%, P = .01; difference adjusted for prespecified covariates, 3%, range 0%-5%, P = .05). Conclusions Apparently minor differences in study design decisions may have a measurable impact on attrition in trials. Further investigation is warranted of the impact of the relevance of outcome measures on follow-up rates and, more broadly, of the consequences of what we ask participants to do when we invite them to take part in research studies. Trial registration ISRCTN Register 31070347; http://www.controlled-trials.com/ISRCTN31070347/31070347 Archived by WebCite at (http://www.webcitation.org/62cpeyYaY) PMID:22100793
Kalaitzaki, Eleftheria; White, Ian R; Khadjesari, Zarnie; Murray, Elizabeth; Linke, Stuart; Thompson, Simon G; Godfrey, Christine; Wallace, Paul
Background Light exposure at night is now considered a probable carcinogen. To study the effects of light on chronic diseases like cancer, methods to measure light exposure in large observational studies are needed. We aimed to investigate the validity of self-reported current light exposure. Methods We developed a self-administered semiquantitative light questionnaire, the Harvard Light Exposure Assessment (H-LEA) questionnaire, and compared photopic scores derived from this questionnaire with actual photopic and circadian measures obtained from a real-life 7-day light meter application among 132 women (85 rotating night shift workers and 47 day workers) participating in the Nurses' Health Study II. Results After adjustment for age, BMI, collection day, and night work status, the overall partial Spearman correlation between self-report of light exposure and actual photopic light measurements was 0.72 (P<0.001; Kendall ? =0.57) and 0.73 (P<0.0001; Kendall ? =0.58) when correlating circadian light measurements. There were only minimal differences in accuracy of self-report of light exposure and photopic or circadian light measurement between day (r=0.77 and 0.78, respectively) and rotating night shift workers (r=0.68 and 0.69, respectively). Conclusions The results of this study provide evidence of the criterion validity of self-reported light exposure using the H-LEA questionnaire. Impact: This questionnaire is a practical method of assessing light exposure in large scale epidemiologic studies. PMID:21737411
Bajaj, Archna; Rosner, Bernard; Lockley, Steven; Schernhammer, Eva S.
Agreement between self-report questionnaires and medical record data was substantial for diabetes, hypertension, myocardial infarction and stroke but not for heart failure
ObjectivesQuestionnaires are used to estimate disease burden. Agreement between questionnaire responses and a criterion standard is important for optimal disease prevalence estimates. We measured the agreement between self-reported disease and medical record diagnosis of disease.
Yuji Okura; Lynn H. Urban; Douglas W. Mahoney; Steven J. Jacobsen; Richard J. Rodeheffer
Berkeley Expressivity Questionnaire The Berkeley Expressivity Questionnaire assesses three facets of emotional expressivity: negative
Berkeley Expressivity Questionnaire The Berkeley Expressivity Questionnaire assesses three facets-reports, peer ratings, and behavior. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 72, 435-448. Other references include: Gross, J.J. (2000). The Berkeley Expressivity Questionnaire. In J. Maltby, C.A. Lewis, & A
Gross, James J.
Student perceptions of student perception of module questionnaires: questionnaire completion as problem solving
A sample of 202 students filling in a student evaluation of teaching (SET) questionnaire were asked to complete another questionnaire asking about the specific reasons for awarding a score to the specific SET questionnaire items. The aim was to find out what influenced students' judgements on those items. It was found that students' interpretation of some questions differed from the
S. Ian Robertson
Evaluation of impairment of health related quality of life in asthma: development of a questionnaire for use in clinical trials.
BACKGROUND: In the past only physiological and clinical outcomes have been used to assess the effect of asthma interventions and the effect of the intervention on the lives of the patients has not been determined. The objective of this study was to assess health related impairment of quality of life in adult asthmatic patients and to develop a questionnaire for measuring quality of life in clinical trials in asthma. METHODS: Impairment of quality of life in adults with asthma was evaluated from structured interviews in which patients were asked to identify the parts of their daily lives affected by asthma. On the basis of these results, an asthma quality of life questionnaire was developed in an interviewer and self administered form and tested for comprehension and acceptability. A total of 150 adults with asthma and with a wide range of airway hyperresponsiveness were enrolled from previous clinical trials, local asthma clinics, and notices in the media. RESULTS: Areas of quality of life impairment included symptoms classically associated with asthma, responses to environmental stimuli, the need to avoid these stimuli, limitation of activities, and emotional dysfunction. Areas of impairment were similar across strata of airway hyperresponsiveness, age, and treatment requirements and between sexes, thus allowing a single questionnaire suitable for all adults with asthma to be developed. The questionnaire contains 32 items and takes 5-10 minutes to administer; in the pretesting it was shown to be acceptable to a wide range of patients. CONCLUSIONS: The questionnaire includes areas of quality of life impairment that are important to adult asthmatic patients. It has been designed to be responsive to within subject change and therefore may be used as a measure of outcome in clinical trials in asthma. PMID:1549827
Juniper, E F; Guyatt, G H; Epstein, R S; Ferrie, P J; Jaeschke, R; Hiller, T K
Development and Validation of the Cognitive Behavioral Physical Activity Questionnaire.
Abstract Purpose . Develop and demonstrate preliminary validation of a brief questionnaire aimed at assessing social cognitive determinants of physical activity (PA) in a college population. Design . Quantitative and observational. Setting . A midsized northeastern university. Subjects . Convenience sample of 827 male and female college students age 18 to 24 years. Measures . International Physical Activity Questionnaire and a PA stage-of-change algorithm. Analysis . A sequential process of survey development, including item generation and data reduction analyses by factor analysis, was followed with the goal of creating a parsimonious questionnaire. Structural equation modeling was used for confirmatory factor analysis and construct validation was confirmed against self-reported PA and stage of change. Validation analyses were replicated in a second, independent sample of 1032 college students. Results . Fifteen items reflecting PA self-regulation, outcome expectations, and personal barriers explained 65% of the questionnaire data and explained 28.6% and 39.5% of the variance in total PA and moderate-to-vigorous-intensity PA, respectively. Scale scores were distinguishable across the stages of change. Findings were similar when the Cognitive Behavioral Physical Activity Questionnaire (CBPAQ) was tested in a similar and independent sample of college students (40%; R(2) moderate-to-vigorous-intensity PA = .40; p < .001). Conclusion . The CBPAQ successfully explains and predicts PA behavior in a college population, warranting its incorporation into future studies aiming at understanding and improving on PA behavior in college students. PMID:25162324
Schembre, Susan M; Durand, Casey P; Blissmer, Bryan J; Greene, Geoffrey W
Summary and results of the joint WMD-DAC/Alameda County bioterrorism response plan exercise.
On June 12,2003, the Alameda County Public Health Department and Sandia National Laboratories/CA jointly conducted an exercise that used a Weapons of Mass Destruction-Decision Analysis Center (WMD-DAC) bioterrorism attack simulation to test the effectiveness of the county's emergency response plan. The exercise was driven by an assumed release (in the vicinity of the Berkeley Marina), and subsequent spread, of a small quantity of aerosolized, weapons-grade anthrax spores. The simulation used several key WMD-DAC capabilities, namely: (1) integration with an atmospheric dispersion model to calculate expected dose levels in the affected areas, (2) a individual-tracking capability for both infected and non-infected persons as they made decisions, sought treatment, and received prophylaxis drugs, and (3) a user interface that allows exercise participants to affect the scenario evolution and outcome. The analysis of the county's response plan included documenting and reviewing the decisions made by participants during the exercise. Twenty-six local and regional officials representing the health care system, emergency medical services and law enforcement were involved in responding to the simulated attack. The results of this joint effort include lessons learned both by the Alameda County officials regarding implementation of their bioterrorism response plan and by the Sandia representatives about conducting exercises of this type. These observations are reviewed in this report, and they form a basis for providing a better understanding of group/individual decision processes and for identifying effective communication options among decision makers.
Manley, Dawn Kataoka; Lipkin, Joel; West, Todd H.; Tam, Ricky; Hirano, Howard H.; Ammerlahn, Heidi R.
Behavioural, emotional, and cognitive responses in European disasters: results of survivor interviews.
In the European multi-centre study BeSeCu (Behaviour, Security, Culture), interviews were conducted in seven countries to explore survivors' emotional, behavioural, and cognitive responses during disasters. Interviews, either in groups or one-to-one, were convened according to type of event: collapse of a building; earthquake; fire; flood; and terror attack. The content analysis of interviews resulted in a theoretical framework, describing the course of the events, behavioural responses, and the emotional and cognitive processing of survivors. While the environmental cues and the ability to recognise what was happening varied in different disasters, survivors' responses tended to be more universal across events, and most often were adaptive and non-selfish. Several peri-traumatic factors related to current levels of post-traumatic stress were identified, while memory quantity did not differ as a function of event type or post-traumatic stress. Time since the event had a minor effect on recall. Based on the findings, several suggestions for emergency training are made. PMID:24325239
Grimm, Anna; Hulse, Lynn; Preiss, Marek; Schmidt, Silke
Responses of Tundra Ecosystems to Environmental Change: Observational and Experimental Results
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Evidence of environmental changes due to human-enhanced climate warming continues to accumulate from polar regions. Responses in tundra and taiga ecosystems to climate changes have been variable because of the wide range in process response rates, from metabolic processes to adjustments in ecosystem carbon balance, and the variability in environmental settings across local to regional scales. For example, strong increases in rates of plant growth and changes in species composition and abundance have been observed in parts of the Low Arctic, but very little change has been measured in high arctic tundra. A dramatic increase in the cover of deciduous shrubs in areas of the western North American Arctic is predicted to result in positive feedbacks to soil temperature, through increased surface roughness and snow depth, and to atmospheric heating by reducing albedo. Increased shrub cover has also been found in long-term experimental warming studies conducted throughout the tundra biome as part of the International Tundra Experiment (ITEX). Warming is also affecting the carbon balance of tundra and taiga, which hold 25% of the soil carbon of global terrestrial ecosystems. However, trajectories of these changes are largely unknown for most northern systems, and differ because of initial conditions of the carbon and nutrient economy. Over the longer-term, the positive increases in plant growth may be constrained by negative feedbacks to nutrient cycling, as increases in C:N ratios of plant litter slow the release of nitrogen to soils. However, nitrogen availability has been shown to increase in response to short-term warming. In this presentation, I will review the responses of tundra ecosystems to climate variability and change, both through observational and experimental studies.
Henry, G. H.
Developing the draft descriptive system for the child amblyopia treatment questionnaire (CAT-Qol): a mixed methods study
Background Amblyopia is a visual condition that occurs in childhood. Screening programmes exist within the United Kingdom (UK) to detect amblyopia, and once detected treatment is given. Existing patient reported outcome (PRO) measures for amblyopia do not meet current recommendations for the methods adopted during their development, or the way in which the instruments are administered. The overall aim of this study was to produce a self-complete PRO instrument for amblyopia for children aged 4�7 years that uses children�s responses in the development phase. The study comprised a number of stages. This paper reports on the refinement of the descriptive system for the draft instrument (the Child Amblyopia Treatment Questionnaire, CAT-QoL) using qualitative and quantitative methods. Methods The study consisted of three components. Children were asked to read, and complete the draft questionnaire as independently as possible. They were then asked about the questionnaire, and its format, in a cognitive debriefing exercise. Observations were made as to the child�s ability to read the questionnaire, particular attention was made as to which individual words participants struggled to read. Children were also asked their opinion on the design layout of the questionnaire. Finally, some children were asked to complete a ranking task to help determine the order of the levels of the items as judged by the children. Mid-rank scoring and statistical level of agreement were calculated for the ranking exercise. Results Thirty-two (n=32) participants completed a draft questionnaire; each of these underwent a cognitive de-briefing interview. Twenty-two (n=22) children completed the ranking exercise. Ten children did not understand the concept of ranking. The results of the qualitative phase (cognitive de-briefing interview) were used to modify the wording of items and layout of the instrument. Results of the ranking exercise were used to inform the order of the response levels for the items. Conclusion Responses of young children can be used in the development of PRO instruments. They are able to help inform the content, wording, and format of an instrument, ensuring good content and face validity. The results have been used to further refine the CAT-QoL, however further research is required to assess the psychometric properties of the instrument. PMID:24148800
The Development and Evaluation of the Academic Entitlement Questionnaire
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Validity evidence was gathered for the Academic Entitlement Questionnaire (AEQ). After reviewing entitlement literature, items were written to cover the breadth of academic entitlement. Results provide evidence for the substantive, structural, and external aspects of validity of the AEQ. Implications for research and use of the AEQ are discussed.�
Kopp, Jason P.; Zinn, Tracy E.; Finney, Sara J.; Jurich, Daniel P.
Microsoft Word - Adolescent_Smoking_Consequences_Questionnaire.doc
1 Adolescent Smoking Consequences Questionnaire Instructions: Below is a list of statements. We would like you to tell us what you expect to or believe will happen as a result of smoking cigarettes. If the consequence seems like it would never happen,
Measuring Housework Participation: The Gap between "Stylised" Questionnaire
, and the `Wage Gap'" funded by the ESRC Gender Equality Network. It has been greatly improved as a result of myMeasuring Housework Participation: The Gap between "Stylised" Questionnaire Estimates and Diary that the gap between the two types of estimate is generally smaller in the case of women. But the gap between
de Gispert, Adri�
Exploratory and Confirmatory Analysis of the Trauma Practices Questionnaire
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Objective: The present study provides psychometric data for the Trauma Practices Questionnaire (TPQ). Method: A nationally randomized sample of 2,400 surveys was sent to self-identified trauma treatment specialists, and 711 (29.6%) were returned. Results: An exploratory factor analysis (N = 319) conducted on a randomly split sample (RSS) revealed�
Craig, Carlton D.; Sprang, Ginny
Development of the Comprehensive General Parenting Questionnaire for caregivers of 5-13 year olds
Background Despite the large number of parenting questionnaires, considerable disagreement exists about how to best assess parenting. Most of the instruments only assess limited aspects of parenting. To overcome this shortcoming, the �Comprehensive General Parenting Questionnaire� (CGPQ) was systematically developed. Such a measure is frequently requested in the area of childhood overweight. Methods First, an item bank of existing parenting measures was created assessing five key parenting constructs that have been identified across multiple theoretical approaches to parenting (Nurturance, Overprotection, Coercive control, Behavioral control, and Structure). Caregivers of 5- to 13-year-olds were asked to complete the online survey in the Netherlands (N?=?821), Belgium (N?=?435) and the United States (N?=?241). In addition, a questionnaire regarding personality characteristics (�Big Five�) of the caregiver was administered and parents were asked to report about their child�s height and weight. Factor analyses and Item-Response Modeling (IRM) techniques were used to assess the underlying parenting constructs and for item reduction. Correlation analyses were performed to assess the relations between general parenting and personality of the caregivers, adjusting for socio-economic status (SES) indicators, to establish criterion validity. Multivariate linear regressions were performed to examine the associations of SES indicators and parenting with child BMI z-scores. Additionally, we assessed whether scores on the parenting constructs and child BMI z-scores differed depending on SES indicators. Results The reduced questionnaire (62 items) revealed acceptable fit of our parenting model and acceptable IRM item fit statistics. Caregiver personality was related as hypothesized with the GCPQ parenting constructs. While correcting for SES, overprotection was positively related to child BMI. The negative relationship between structure and BMI was borderline significant. Parents with a high level of education were less likely to use overly forms of controlling parenting (i.e., coercive control and overprotection) and more likely to have children with lower BMI. Based on several author review meetings and cognitive interviews the questionnaire was further modified to an 85-item questionnaire. Conclusions The GCPQ may facilitate research exploring how parenting influences children�s weight-related behaviors. The contextual influence of general parenting is likely to be more profound than its direct relationship with weight status. PMID:24512450
Using an Internet Questionnaire to Characterize Bat Survey Efforts in the United States and Canada
Standardized survey methods are important for obtaining reliable information on wildlife populations. As a precursor to creating a regional bat-survey (Chiroptera) protocol, we distributed a questionnaire via e-mail to biologists responsible for conducting bat surveys in the United States and Canada. We received 415 responses from 45 states and 7 Canadian provinces or territories. Most of the responses were from
The validity and responsiveness of three quality of life measures in the assessment of psoriasis patients: results of a phase II study
Background Patient-reported outcome (PROs) measures are being used more frequently in investigational studies of treatments for moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. The objective of this study was to examine the relationships among the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), the Short Form 36 (SF-36), and the EuroQOL 5D (EQ-5D) and to assess their validity, responsiveness, and estimates of minimum important differences. Methods A Phase II, randomized, double-blind, parallel group, placebo-controlled, multi-center clinical trial assessed the clinical efficacy and safety of two doses of subcutaneously administered adalimumab vs. placebo for 12 weeks in the treatment of 147 patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. This study provided the opportunity to evaluate the validity and responsiveness to change in clinical status of PROs instruments. Patients completed the DLQI, SF-36, and EQ-5D questionnaires at baseline and at 12 weeks. Blinded investigators assessed the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) scores and the Physician's Global Assessment (PGA) scores of enrolled patients. The responsiveness of the measures to changes in the clinical endpoints from baseline to Week 12 was assessed. Estimates of minimum important differences (MID) were derived. All analyses were performed with blinded data; findings and conclusions were not biased based on treatment condition. Results The dermatology-specific DLQI was highly correlated to clinical endpoints at baseline and at Week 12, and was the most responsive PRO to changes in endpoints. Compared with the SF-36, the EQ-5D index score and VAS scores were generally more highly correlated with clinical endpoints, but displayed about the same degree of responsiveness. The most responsive SF-36 scales were the Bodily Pain and Social Functioning scales. Estimates of the MID for the DLQI ranged from 2.3�5.7 and for the SF-36 Physical Component Summary (PCS) score ranged from 2.5�3.9. Conclusion This study provides support for the continued use of the DLQI and SF-36 PCS in the assessment of treatments for psoriasis. On the basis of the results from this trial, the EQ-5D should be considered as a general PRO measure in future clinical trials of patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. PMID:17005043
Shikiar, Richard; Willian, Mary Kaye; Okun, Martin M; Thompson, Christine S; Revicki, Dennis A
Development of a Health-Related Quality of Life Questionnaire (HRQL) for patients with Extremity Soft Tissue Infections (ESTI)
Background Past clinical trials of antimicrobial treatment in soft tissue infections have focused on non-standardized clinical and physiological outcome variables, and have not considered the subjective experience of patients. The objective of this study was to develop a health-related quality of life questionnaire (HRQL) for patients with extremity soft tissue infections (ESTI) for future use in clinical trials. Methods The design of this study followed published guidelines and included item generation, item reduction, and questionnaire preparation. Study subjects were consenting English-speaking adults with acute ESTI requiring prescription of at least two days of outpatient intravenous antibiotic therapy. Results A list of 49 items that adversely impact the quality of life of patients with ESTI was generated by literature review, informal health professional feedback, and semi-structured interviews with twenty patients. A listing of these items was then administered to 95 patients to determine their relative importance on quality of life. A questionnaire was prepared that included the twenty most important items with a 5-point Likert scale response. Questionnaire domains included physical symptoms, problems performing their activities of daily living, impairment of their emotional functioning, and difficulties in their social interactions as related to their ESTI. The final questionnaire was pre-tested on a further ten patients and was named the ESTI-Score. Conclusion The ESTI-Score is a novel instrument designed to quantify the impact of ESTI on quality of life. Future study is required to determine its validity and responsiveness before use as an outcome measure in clinical trials. PMID:17034641
Storck, Aric J; Laupland, Kevin B; Read, Ronald R; Mah, Manuel W; Gill, John M; Nevett, Deborah; Louie, Thomas J
Evaluating the organisational climate in Italian public healthcare institutions by means of a questionnaire
Background By means of the ICONAS project, the Healthcare Agency of an Italian Region developed, and used a standardised questionnaire to quantify the organisational climate. The aims of the project were (a) to investigate whether the healthcare institutions were interested in measuring climate, (b) to estimate the range of applicability and reliability of the instrument, (c) to analyse the dimensions of climate among healthcare personnel, (d) to assess the differences among employees with different contractual positions. Methods The anonymous questionnaire containing 50 items, each with a scale from 1 to 10, was offered to the healthcare organisations, to be compiled during ad hoc meetings. The data were sent to the central project coordinator. The differences between highly specialised staff (mostly physicians) and other employees were assessed after descriptive statistical analysis of the single items. Both Principal Component Analysis and Factor Analysis were used. Results Ten healthcare organisations agreed to partecipate. The questionnaire was completed by 8691 employees out of 13202. The mean value of organisational climate was 4.79 (range 1�10). There were significant differences among single items and between the 2 groups of employees. Multivariate methods showed: (a) one principal component explained > 40% of the variance, (b) 7 factors summarised the data. Conclusion Italian healthcare institutions are interested in assessing organisational phenomena, especially after the reforms of the nineties. The instrument was found to be applicable and suitable for measuring organisational climate. Administration of the questionnaire leads to an acceptable response rate. Climate can be discribed by means of 7 underlying dimensions. PMID:17519007
Wienand, Ulrich; Cinotti, Renata; Nicoli, Augusta; Bisagni, Miriam
The VSQ: a questionnaire to measure vulvovaginal symptoms in postmenopausal women
Objective The purpose of this study was to develop a vulvovaginal symptoms questionnaire (VSQ) to study symptoms, emotions, life-impact, and sexual-impact of vulvovaginal symptoms in postmenopausal women. Methods We developed questionnaire focused on vulvovaginal symptoms based on modifications to the Skindex-16, a validated questionnaire to measure the impact of skin disease. We then recruited postmenopausal women seeking routine gynecologic care to test the psychometric properties of the VSQ. Test-retest reliability was assessed 2 to 4 weeks after their initial recruitment and measured utilizing intra-class coefficients. Four distinct a priori scales of the VSQ were developed: symptoms, emotions, life-impact, and sexual-impact. Confirmatory factor analysis was performed to verify the four a priori scales by evaluating the goodness-of-fit of a final confirmatory factor analysis model. The internal consistency of the scales was assessed through the calculation of Cronbach�s ? coefficient. Results The VSQ is a 21-item written questionnaire with four scales, symptoms, emotions, life-impact, and sexual impact. One hundred twenty postmenopausal women participated in the psychometric validation of the VSQ. The test-retest reliability the four scales measured by intra-class coefficients were 0.75, 0.60, 0.55, and 0.65 for symptoms, emotions, life-impact and sexual-impact. The goodness-of �fit of the confirmatory factor response model was confirmed. Cronbach�s ? coefficients were 0.76, 0.87, 0.83, and 0.82 for the scales. Conclusion The VSQ is a reliable and internal consistent instrument to measure vulvovaginal symptoms in postmenopausal women. PMID:23481118
Erekson, Elisabeth A.; Yip, Sallis O.; Wedderburn, Terri S.; Martin, Deanna K.; Li, Fang-Yong; Choi, Jennifer N.; Kenton, Kimberly S.; Fried, Terri R.
Climate Responses to Stratospheric SRM: Results from a Perturbed Physics Ensemble Modeling Experiment
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
While many have argued that the potential future deployment of solar radiation management (SRM) technologies hinges upon the uncertainty around the value of climate sensitivity, modeling studies of the climate�s response to SRM forcings have thus far focused on best-guess modeling frameworks which yield climate sensitivity values close to the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP) dataset mean. Thus, most SRM modeling experiments to-date say little about the range of climate responses we may observe if SRM were implemented in high- or low- climate sensitivity worlds. The work presented here aims to see how climate responses to SRM under the physics that produce high climate sensitivity may differ from the responses modeled so far using best-guess model parameters. We present preliminary results from a �perturbed physics� ensemble modeling experiment implemented using climateprediction.net (cpdn). Perturbed physics climate modeling experiments simulate past and future climate scenarios using a wide combination of model parameter combinations with the aim of both simulating past climate with some level of accuracy and also projecting future climates that exhibit a wide range of climate sensitivities. Ensemble members were selected using an algorithm for model selection regional surface temperature data from the cpdn simulation output for model years 1961-2005 (in five year averages) to observational data from the HadCRUT3 (land) and HadSST2 (ocean) datasets at the same spatial and temporal resolution. Stratospheric SRM is simulated in the model by specifying stratospheric optical depth. Several scenarios are tested including several designed to stabilize mean global temperature at different levels, two scenarios designed to rapidly cool the climate starting in 2020 and 2035, respectively, and a scenario which makes small, periodic perturbations (in order to glean information about detectability and the feasibility of large-scale SRM testing schemes). All scenarios use anthropogenic emissions scenario RCP 4.5 and are compared to an RCP 4.5/no-SRM control. We will present global and regional results from this ongoing experiment.
Ricke, K.; Rowlands, D. J.; Keith, D.
Development of a questionnaire to evaluate practitioners� confidence and knowledge in primary care in managing chronic kidney disease
Background In the UK, chronic disease, including chronic kidney disease (CKD) is largely managed in primary care. We developed a tool to assess practitioner confidence and knowledge in managing CKD compared to other chronic diseases. This questionnaire was part of a cluster randomised quality improvement interventions in chronic kidney disease (QICKD; ISRCTN56023731). Methods The questionnaire was developed by family physicians, primary care nurses, academics and renal specialists. We conducted three focus groups (n?=?7, 6, and 8) to refine the questionnaire using groups of general practitioners, practice nurses and trainees in general practice. We used paper based versions to develop the questionnaire and online surveys to test it. Practitioners in a group of volunteer, trial practices received the questionnaire twice. We measured its reliability using Cohen�s Kappa (K). Results The practitioners in the focus groups reached a consensus as to the key elements to include in the instrument. We achieved a 73.1% (n?=?57/78) initial response rate for our questionnaire; of these 57, 54 completed the questionnaire a second time. Family physicians made up the largest single group of respondents (47.4%, n?=?27). Initial response showed more female (64.9%, n?=?37) than male (35.1%, n?=?20) respondents. The reliability results from retesting showed that there was moderate agreement (k?>?0.4) on all questions; with many showing substantial agreement (k?>?0.6). There was substantial agreement in the questions about loop diuretics (k?=?0.608, CI 0.432-0.784, p?0.001), confidence in managing hypertension (k?=?0.628, 95%CI 0.452-0.804, p?0.001), diastolic blood pressure treatment thresholds in CKD (k?=?0.608, 95%CI 0.436-0.780, p?0.001) and the rate of decline of eGFR that would prompt referral (k?=?0.764, 95%CI 0.603-0.925, p?0.001). Conclusion The QICKD-CCQ is a reliable instrument for measuring confidence and knowledge among primary care practitioners on CKD management in the context of UK primary care. PMID:24886228
Web Developer, TBD Job Description Questionnaire (JDQ)
Web Developer, TBD Job Description Questionnaire (JDQ) Professional Staff Instructions What Below to Certify Approval or Disapproval: Approval Disapproval ( ) ( ) TBD, Web Developer Position Title: Web Developer Employee Name: TBD Phone: Supervisor Name & Title: TBD, Production Team
Barrash, Warren
Physical Activity Questionnaires (PAQ) Validation Studies - References
Wareham NJ, Jakes RW, Rennie KL et al. Validity and repeatability of a simple index derived from the short physical activity questionnaire used in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) study.
Project Manager, TBD Job Description Questionnaire (JDQ)
Project Manager, TBD Job Description Questionnaire (JDQ) Professional Staff Instructions What Below to Certify Approval or Disapproval: Approval Disapproval ( ) ( ) TBD, Project Manager: Project Manager Employee Name: TBD Phone: Supervisor Name & Title: Christine Bauer, Assistant Director
Barrash, Warren
Does amplitude scaling of ground motion records result in biased nonlinear structural drift responses?
Limitations of the existing earthquake ground motion database lead to scaling of records to obtain seismograms consistent with a ground motion target for structural design and evaluation. In the engineering seismology community, acceptable limits for 'legitimate' scaling vary from one (no scaling allowed) to 10 or more. The concerns expressed by detractors of scaling are mostly based on the knowledge of, for example, differences in ground motion characteristics for different earthquake magnitude-distance (Mw-Rclose) scenarios, and much less on their effects on structures. At the other end of the spectrum, proponents have demonstrated that scaling is not only legitimate but also useful for assessing structural response statistics for Mw-Rclose scenarios. Their studies, however, have not investigated more recent purposes of scaling and have not always drawn conclusions for a wide spectrum of structural vibration periods and strengths. This article investigates whether scaling of records randomly selected from an Mw-Rclose bin (or range) to a target fundamental-mode spectral acceleration (Sa) level introduces bias in the expected nonlinear structural drift response of both single-degree-of-freedom oscillators and one multi-degree-of-freedom building. The bias is quantified relative to unscaled records from the target Mw-Rclose bin that are 'naturally' at the target Sa level. We consider scaling of records from the target Mw-Rclose bin and from other Mw-Rclose bins. The results demonstrate that scaling can indeed introduce a bias that, for the most part, ca be explained by differences between the elastic response spectra of the scaled versus unscaled records. Copyright ?? 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Luco, N.; Bazzurro, P.
Validated Questionnaires in Male Sexual Function Assessment
\\u000a Self-administered questionnaires and symptom scales are valuable adjuncts to clinical practice in sexual medicine and are\\u000a an important part of high quality research. Despite their value in identifying and evaluating sexual dysfunction, screening\\u000a tools and questionnaires should never substitute for a thorough sexual, medical, and psychosocial history. For patients with multiple sexual dysfunction symptoms\\u000a following cancer diagnosis or treatment (e.g.,
Raymond C. Rosen; Christian J. Nelson
Development and assessment of a questionnaire for a descriptive cross � sectional study concerning parents' knowledge, attitudes and practises in antibiotic use in Greece
Background Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs) are common in children. The cause is usually viral, but parents' attitude often contributes to inappropriate antibiotic prescribing, promoting antibiotic resistance. The objective is to describe the process of developing a questionnaire to assess parents' Knowledge, Attitude and Practices (KAP) concerning the role of antibiotics when children suffer from URIs, as well as to evaluate the response rates, the completeness and the reliability (Cronbach) of the questionnaires. Finally, to note any limitations of the study. Methods Literature review, along with pre � testing yielded a questionnaire designed to assess the parents' KAP � level. A postal survey was set, in a national sample of 200 schools stratified by geographical region. The participants consist of a multistage geographical cluster sample of 8000 parents. The influence of demographic characteristics (i.e. sex, age, education) was analyzed. Cronbach index test and factor analysis were used to assess the reliability of the questionnaire. Results The response rate of the parents was 69%. Islands presented the lowest response rate while in Northern Greece the response rate was the highest. Sixty � eight point nine percent of the sample returned questionnaires fully completed, while 91.5% completed 95% of the questions. Three questions out of 70 were answered in a very low rate which was associated mostly with immigrant respondents. The section describing parents' attitude toward antibiotic use was not completed as much as the sections of knowledge or practices. The questions were factor analyzed and 10 out of the 21 extracted factors were finally evaluated, reducing the number of independent variables to 46. The reliability of the questionnaire was 0.55. However, only items that increased the Cronbach when added were eventually included in the final scales raising the internal consistency to 0.68. Limitations of the study, such as the vocabulary and form of the questionnaire and the idiocycrancy of the respondents, emerged during the analysis. Conclusion The response rate and the completeness of the questionnaires were higher than expected, probably attributed to the involvement of the teachers. The study findings were satisfactory regarding the development of a reliable instrument capable to measure parents' KAP characteristics. PMID:19413902
Response of the Diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum to Photooxidative Stress Resulting from High Light Exposure
The response of microalgae to photooxidative stress resulting from high light exposure is a well-studied phenomenon. However, direct analyses of photosystem II (PSII) D1 protein (the main target of photoinhibition) in diatoms are scarce. In this study, the response of the diatom model species Phaeodactylum tricornutum to short-term exposure to high light was examined and the levels of D1 protein determined immunochemically. Low light (LL) acclimated cells (40 �mol photons m?2 s?1) subjected to high light (HL, 1,250 �mol photons m?2 s?1) showed rapid induction of non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) and ca. 20-fold increase in diatoxanthin (DT) concentration. This resulted from the conversion of diadinoxanthin (DD) to DT through the activation of the DD-cycle. D1 protein levels under LL decreased about 30% after 1 h of the addition of lincomycin (LINC), a chloroplast protein synthesis inhibitor, showing significant D1 degradation and repair under low irradiance. Exposure to HL lead to a 3.2-fold increase in D1 degradation rate, whereas average D1 repair rate was 1.3-x higher under HL than LL, leading to decreased levels of D1 protein under HL. There were significant effects of both HL and LINC on P. tricornutum maximum quantum yield of PSII (Fv/Fm), showing a reduction of active PSII reaction centres. Partial recovery of Fv/Fm in the dark demonstrates the photosynthetic resilience of this diatom to changes in the light regime. P. tricornutum showed high allocation of total protein to D1 and an active D1-repair cycle to limit photoinhibition. PMID:22675519
Domingues, Nuno; Matos, Ana Rita; Marques da Silva, Jorge; Cartaxana, Paulo
Development and validity of a questionnaire to test the knowledge of primary care personnel regarding nutrition in obese adolescents
Background In light of its epidemic proportions in developed and developing countries, obesity is considered a serious public health issue. In order to increase knowledge concerning the ability of health care professionals in caring for obese adolescents and adopt more efficient preventive and control measures, a questionnaire was developed and validated to assess non-dietitian health professionals regarding their Knowledge of Nutrition in Obese Adolescents (KNOA). Methods The development and evaluation of a questionnaire to assess the knowledge of primary care practitioners with respect to nutrition in obese adolescents was carried out in five phases, as follows: 1) definition of study dimensions 2) development of 42 questions and preliminary evaluation of the questionnaire by a panel of experts; 3) characterization and selection of primary care practitioners (35 dietitians and 265 non-dietitians) and measurement of questionnaire criteria by contrasting the responses of dietitians and non-dietitians; 4) reliability assessment by question exclusion based on item difficulty (too easy and too difficult for non-dietitian practitioners), item discrimination, internal consistency and reproducibility index determination; and 5) scoring the completed questionnaires. Results Dietitians obtained higher scores than non-dietitians (Mann�Whitney U test, P?0.05), confirming the validity of the questionnaire criteria. Items were discriminated by correlating the score for each item with the total score, using a minimum of 0.2 as a correlation coefficient cutoff value. Item difficulty was controlled by excluding questions answered correctly by more than 90% of the non-dietitian subjects (too easy) or by less than 10% of them (too difficult). The final questionnaire contained 26 of the original 42 questions, increasing Cronbach�s ? value from 0.788 to 0.807. Test-retest agreement between respondents was classified as good to very good (Kappa test, >0.60). Conclusion The KNOA questionnaire developed for primary care practitioners is a valid, consistent and suitable instrument that can be applied over time, making it a promising tool for developing and guiding public health policies. PMID:23865564
Workplace bullying in NHS community trust: staff questionnaire survey
Objectives To determine the prevalence of workplace bullying in an NHS community trust; to examine the association between bullying and occupational health outcomes; and to investigate the relation between support at work and bullying. Design Questionnaire survey. Setting NHS community trust in the south east of England. Subjects Trust employees. Main outcome measures Measures included a 20 item inventory of bullying behaviours designed for the study, the job induced stress scale, the hospital anxiety and depression scale, the overall job satisfaction scale, the support at work scale, and the propensity to leave scale. Results 1100 employees returned questionnaires�a response rate of 70%. 421 (38%) employees reported experiencing one or more types of bullying in the previous year. 460 (42%) had witnessed the bullying of others. When bullying occurred it was most likely to be by a manager. Two thirds of the victims of bullying had tried to take action when the bullying occurred, but most were dissatisfied with the outcome. Staff who had been bullied had significantly lower levels of job satisfaction (mean 10.5 (SD 2.7) v 12.2 (2.3), P<0.001) and higher levels of job induced stress (mean 22.5 (SD 6.1) v 16.9 (5.8), P<0.001), depression (8% (33) v 1% (7), P<0.001), anxiety (30% (125) v 9% (60), P<0.001), and intention to leave the job (8.5 (2.9) v 7.0 (2.7), P<0.001). Support at work seemed to protect people from some of the damaging effects of bullying. Conclusions Bullying is a serious problem. Setting up systems for supporting staff and for dealing with interpersonal conflict may have benefits for both employers and staff. Key messages38% of staff in a community NHS trust reported being subjected to bullying behaviours in the workplace in the previous year and 42% had witnessed the bullying of othersStaff who had been bullied had lower levels of job satisfaction and higher levels of job induced stress, depression, anxiety, and intention to leaveSupport at work may be able to protect people from some of the damaging effects of bullyingEmployers should have policies and procedures that comprehensively address the issue of workplace bullying PMID:9915730
Quine, Lyn
Social Reward Questionnaire (SRQ): development and validation.
Human beings seek out social interactions as a source of reward. To date, there have been limited attempts to identify different forms of social reward, and little is known about how the value of social rewards might vary between individuals. This study aimed to address both these issues by developing the Social Reward Questionnaire (SRQ), a measure of individual differences in the value of different social rewards. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was run on an initial set of 75 items (N = 305). Based on this analysis, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was then conducted on a second sample (N = 505) with a refined 23-item scale. This analysis was used to test a six-factor structure, which resulted in good model fit (CFI = 0.96, RSMEA = 0.07). The factors represent six subscales of social reward defined as follows: Admiration; Negative Social Potency; Passivity; Prosocial Interactions; Sexual Reward; and Sociability. All subscales demonstrated good test-retest reliability and internal consistency. Each subscale also showed a distinct pattern of associations with external correlates measuring personality traits, attitudes, and goals, thus demonstrating construct validity. Taken together, the findings suggest that the SRQ is a reliable, valid measure that can be used to assess individual differences in the value experienced from different social rewards. PMID:24653711
Foulkes, Lucy; Viding, Essi; McCrory, Eamon; Neumann, Craig S
Pregnancy in Multiple Sclerosis: A Questionnaire Study
Background Multiple sclerosis (MS) preferentially affects females at childbearing age. For this reason patients and treating physicians were frequently confronted with questions concerning family planning, pregnancy and birth. Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the expertise about pregnancy related topics in multiple sclerosis of neurologists in private practice. Methods We developed a survey with 16 multiple choice questions about pregnancy related topics and sent it to neurologists in private practice in Berlin, Germany. Results 56 completed questionnaires were sent back. 54% of all questions were answered correctly, 21% of the questions were answered with �I don�t know�. Correct answers were more often given by physicians who treat more than 400 MS patients per year (p?=?0.001). Further positive associations were found for assumed relevance of the topic (p?=?0.002) and the degree of counseling (p<0.001). Conclusion To provide a comprehensive counseling, MS patients with desire for children should be counseled by physicians with a lot of experience in MS treatment. PMID:24901447
Borisow, Nadja; Paul, Friedemann; Ohlraun, Stephanie; Pach, Daniel; Fischer, Felix; D�rr, Jan
Social Reward Questionnaire (SRQ): development and validation
Human beings seek out social interactions as a source of reward. To date, there have been limited attempts to identify different forms of social reward, and little is known about how the value of social rewards might vary between individuals. This study aimed to address both these issues by developing the Social Reward Questionnaire (SRQ), a measure of individual differences in the value of different social rewards. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was run on an initial set of 75 items (N = 305). Based on this analysis, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was then conducted on a second sample (N = 505) with a refined 23-item scale. This analysis was used to test a six-factor structure, which resulted in good model fit (CFI = 0.96, RSMEA = 0.07). The factors represent six subscales of social reward defined as follows: Admiration; Negative Social Potency; Passivity; Prosocial Interactions; Sexual Reward; and Sociability. All subscales demonstrated good test-retest reliability and internal consistency. Each subscale also showed a distinct pattern of associations with external correlates measuring personality traits, attitudes, and goals, thus demonstrating construct validity. Taken together, the findings suggest that the SRQ is a reliable, valid measure that can be used to assess individual differences in the value experienced from different social rewards. PMID:24653711
Foulkes, Lucy; Viding, Essi; McCrory, Eamon; Neumann, Craig S.
Nursing Home Responsiveness to Research Requests: Results of a Field Study.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Used data from nursing homes (n=33) to analyze nursing homes' response to requests to participate in field study. Multiple organizational characteristics predicted responsiveness. Facilities with greater financial resources were more likely to grant access. Stable administration and local facility control predicted higher response rates of nurses.�
Mount, Jeanine K.
[Quality of life of patients during treatment of type I diabetes. Importance of a questionnaire focused on the subjective quality of life].
The aims of this study were 1) to study the quality of life in diabetic patients receiving one of two different forms of insulin delivery and 2) to check in this disease, the reliability and responsiveness of a questionnaire (SQLP: subjective quality of life profile) which we have previously used and validated in other pathological states. A total of 743 Type 1 diabetic subjects, receiving two different forms of insulin injection completed this questionnaire twice, at a monthly interval. These patients stressed a certain number of somatic manifestations as well as their difficulty to move around or perform every-day life activities. The results from this trial show that the questionnaire was capable of demonstrating that the easiest mode of insulin injection was selectively and significantly related to a higher satisfaction with being able to move around. PMID:7859894
Dazord, A; Leizorovicz, A; Gerin, P; Boissel, J P
Validation of a French Version of the Quality of Life �Celiac Disease Questionnaire�
Background and Objective Celiac disease (CD) is a common chronic autoimmune disorder. Both the manifestations of the disease and the burden of the compulsory life-long gluten-free diet (GFD) have been shown to be associated with impairment of health-related quality of life. The objectives of this study were to provide a cross-cultural adaptation of the specific quality of life �Celiac Disease Questionnaire� (CDQ) and to analyze its psychometric properties. Materials and Methods A cross-cultural French adaptation of the CDQ (F-CDQ) was obtained according to the revised international guidelines. The questionnaire was administered at baseline to 211 patients with biopsy proven CD followed-up in a single tertiary referral centre. The questionnaire was also administered after 7 days and 6 months. Reliability (intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), Cronbach's alpha and Bland and Altman graphical analysis), validity (factorial structure and Rasch analysis, convergent validity), and responsiveness (effect size) of the F-CDQ were studied. Results The reliability of the F-CDQ was excellent with ICC and Cronbach's alpha coefficients being between 0.79 and 0.94 for the four subscales and the total score. The factorial structure and the Rasch analysis showed that the four dimensions of the original instrument were retained. Correlations with external measures (a generic measure of quality of life, an anxiety and depression instrument, a self-assessed disease severity, and clinical manifestations) were all in the expected direction confirming the validity of the instrument. Responsiveness was studied and effect sizes ?0.20 were demonstrated for most of the subscales for patients who reported improvement or deterioration after 6 months. Conclusion The F-CDQ retains the psychometric properties of the original instrument and should be useful in cross-national surveys and to assess outcome in clinical trials involving patients with CD. PMID:24788794
Pouchot, Jacques; Despujol, Carole; Malamut, Georgia; Ecosse, Emmanuel; Coste, Jo�l; Cellier, Christophe
Validation of a home safety questionnaire used in a series of case-control studies
Objective To measure the validity of safety behaviours, safety equipment use and hazards reported on a questionnaire by parents/carers with children aged under 5 years participating in a series of home safety case-control studies. Methods The questionnaire measured safety behaviours, safety equipment use and hazards being used as exposures in five case-control studies. Responses to questions were compared with observations made during a home visit. The researchers making observations were blind to questionnaire responses. Results In total, 162 families participated in the study. Overall agreement between reported and observed values of the safety practices ranged from 48.5% to 97.3%. Only 3 safety practices (stair gate at the top of stairs, stair gate at the bottom of stairs, stairs are carpeted) had substantial agreement based on the ? statistic (k=0.65, 0.72, 0.74, respectively). Sensitivity was high (?70%) for 19 of the 30 safety practices, and specificity was high (?70%) for 20 of the 30 practices. Overall for 24 safety practices, a higher proportion of respondents over-reported than under-reported safe practice (negative predictive value>positive predictive value). For six safety practices, a higher proportion of respondents under-reported than over-reported safe practice (negative predictive value Watson, Michael; Benford, Penny; Coupland, Carol; Clacy, Rose; Hindmarch, Paul; Majsak-Newman, Gosia; Deave, Toity; Kendrick, Denise 2014-01-01
Watson, Michael; Benford, Penny; Coupland, Carol; Clacy, Rose; Hindmarch, Paul; Majsak-Newman, Gosia; Deave, Toity; Kendrick, Denise
Evaluation of a wind-tunnel gust response technique including correlations with analytical and flight test results
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
A wind tunnel technique for obtaining gust frequency response functions for use in predicting the response of flexible aircraft to atmospheric turbulence is evaluated. The tunnel test results for a dynamically scaled cable supported aeroelastic model are compared with analytical and flight data. The wind tunnel technique, which employs oscillating vanes in the tunnel throat section to generate a sinusoidally varying flow field around the model, was evaluated by use of a 1/30 scale model of the B-52E airplane. Correlation between the wind tunnel results, flight test results, and analytical predictions for response in the short period and wing first elastic modes of motion are presented.
Redd, L. T.; Hanson, P. W.; Wynne, E. C.
Salix response to different flow regimes in controlled experiments: first results
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Dams and water management for hydropower production, agriculture and other human activities alter the natural flow regime of rivers. The new river hydrograph components depend on the type of impoundment and the policy of regulation but such a different flow regime will likely affect the riparian environment. The main challenge in order to define sustainable flow releases is to quantify hydrological effects in terms of geomorphology and ecosystem response. A considerable lack of knowledge still affects the link hydrology-ecology and inadequate flow rules (e.g., minimal or residual flows) are consequently still widespread: further research in this direction is urgently required. We present an experiment, which aims to investigate the effects of different water stage regimes on riparian vegetation (salix Viminalis cuttings) development in a temperate region (Switzerland). This work describes the installation setup, together with the first results concerning the first of the two scheduled seasons of campaign. Sixty Salix cuttings were planted in non-cohesive sandy-gravel sediment within 1 meter tall plastic pots installed outside in the EPFL campus. After grouping them in three batteries, the water level within them has been varying following three river regimes simulated by adjusting the water level within the pots by means of an automatic hydraulic system. The three water level regimes reproduce a natural flow regime, a minimum residual flow policy, which only conserves peaks during flooding conditions, and an artificial regime conserving only low frequencies (e.g., seasonality) of the natural dynamic. The natural flow regime of the first battery has been applied for two months to the entire system; the three regimes above said started in June 2012. This triggered a plant response transitory regime, which we monitored by measuring plant growth, soil and atmospheric variables. Particularly, measures concern with branches development leaves photosynthesis and fluorescence, together with pictures of each plant. Sap flow was measured for thirty cuttings using a time resolution of thirty minutes, whereas psychrometers measuring the water potential were sampling data every fifteen minutes. Soil moisture and meteo data have also been collected as essential drivers of plant response: these data as well as sap flow measurements can be later compared to a similar field installation along Thur River (Switzerland). After the first season of measurement, in 2012, part of the cuttings have been carefully removed and further analyzed as far as the below ground biomass is concerned. Strong differences in terms of stress and growth performances were observed in correspondence of the transitional phase, following the alterations of the natural flow regime. A later adjustment in the roots distribution allowed survivors to re-sprout and to withstand new conditions.
Gorla, Lorenzo; Signarbieux, Constant; Buttler, Alexandre; Perona, Paolo
Probing soil C metabolism in response to temperature: results from experiments and modeling
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
C use efficiency (CUE) is one of the least understood aspects of soil C cycling, has a very large effect on soil respiration and C sequestration, and decreases with elevated temperature. CUE is directly related to substrate partitioning over energy production and biosynthesis. The production of energy and metabolic precursors occurs in well-known processes such as glycolysis and Krebs cycle. We have developed a new stable isotope approach using position-specific 13C-labeled metabolic tracers to measure these fundamental metabolic processes in intact soil communities (1). We use this new approach, combined with models of soil metabolic flux patterns, to analyze the response of microbial energy production, biosynthesis, and CUE to temperature. The method consists of adding small but precise amounts of position-specific 13C -labeled metabolic tracers to parallel soil incubations, in this case 1-13C and 2,3-13C pyruvate and 1-13C and U-13C glucose. The measurement of CO2 released from the labeled tracers is used to calculate the C flux rates through various metabolic pathways. A simplified metabolic model consisting of 23 reactions is iteratively solved using results of the metabolic tracer experiments and information on microbial precursor demand under different temperatures. This new method enables direct study of fundamental aspects of microbial energy production, C use efficiency, and soil organic matter formation in response to temperature. (1) Dijkstra P, Blankinship JC, Selmants PC, Hart SC, Koch GW, Schwarz E and Hungate BA. Probing metabolic flux patterns of soil microbial communities using parallel position-specific tracer labeling. Soil Biology and Biochemistry (accepted)
Dijkstra, P.; Dalder, J.; Blankinship, J.; Selmants, P. C.; Schwartz, E.; Koch, G. W.; Hart, S.; Hungate, B. A.
Vessel Noise Affects Beaked Whale Behavior: Results of a Dedicated Acoustic Response Study
Some beaked whale species are susceptible to the detrimental effects of anthropogenic noise. Most studies have concentrated on the effects of military sonar, but other forms of acoustic disturbance (e.g. shipping noise) may disrupt behavior. An experiment involving the exposure of target whale groups to intense vessel-generated noise tested how these exposures influenced the foraging behavior of Blainville�s beaked whales (Mesoplodon densirostris) in the Tongue of the Ocean (Bahamas). A military array of bottom-mounted hydrophones was used to measure the response based upon changes in the spatial and temporal pattern of vocalizations. The archived acoustic data were used to compute metrics of the echolocation-based foraging behavior for 16 targeted groups, 10 groups further away on the range, and 26 non-exposed groups. The duration of foraging bouts was not significantly affected by the exposure. Changes in the hydrophone over which the group was most frequently detected occurred as the animals moved around within a foraging bout, and their number was significantly less the closer the whales were to the sound source. Non-exposed groups also had significantly more changes in the primary hydrophone than exposed groups irrespective of distance. Our results suggested that broadband ship noise caused a significant change in beaked whale behavior up to at least 5.2 kilometers away from the vessel. The observed change could potentially correspond to a restriction in the movement of groups, a period of more directional travel, a reduction in the number of individuals clicking within the group, or a response to changes in prey movement. PMID:22880022
Pirotta, Enrico; Milor, Rachael; Quick, Nicola; Moretti, David; Di Marzio, Nancy; Tyack, Peter; Boyd, Ian; Hastie, Gordon
Vessel noise affects beaked whale behavior: results of a dedicated acoustic response study.
Some beaked whale species are susceptible to the detrimental effects of anthropogenic noise. Most studies have concentrated on the effects of military sonar, but other forms of acoustic disturbance (e.g. shipping noise) may disrupt behavior. An experiment involving the exposure of target whale groups to intense vessel-generated noise tested how these exposures influenced the foraging behavior of Blainville's beaked whales (Mesoplodon densirostris) in the Tongue of the Ocean (Bahamas). A military array of bottom-mounted hydrophones was used to measure the response based upon changes in the spatial and temporal pattern of vocalizations. The archived acoustic data were used to compute metrics of the echolocation-based foraging behavior for 16 targeted groups, 10 groups further away on the range, and 26 non-exposed groups. The duration of foraging bouts was not significantly affected by the exposure. Changes in the hydrophone over which the group was most frequently detected occurred as the animals moved around within a foraging bout, and their number was significantly less the closer the whales were to the sound source. Non-exposed groups also had significantly more changes in the primary hydrophone than exposed groups irrespective of distance. Our results suggested that broadband ship noise caused a significant change in beaked whale behavior up to at least 5.2 kilometers away from the vessel. The observed change could potentially correspond to a restriction in the movement of groups, a period of more directional travel, a reduction in the number of individuals clicking within the group, or a response to changes in prey movement. PMID:22880022
Pirotta, Enrico; Milor, Rachael; Quick, Nicola; Moretti, David; Di Marzio, Nancy; Tyack, Peter; Boyd, Ian; Hastie, Gordon
Wild edible plants of Belarus: from Rostafi?ski�s questionnaire of 1883 to the present
Background Belarus is an Eastern European country, which has been little studied ethnobotanically. The aim of the study was to compare largely unpublished 19th century sources with more contemporary data on the use of wild food plants. Methods The information on 19th century uses is based on twelve, mainly unpublished, responses to J�zef Rostafi?ski�s questionnaire from 1883, and the newly discovered materials of the ethnographer Micha? Federowski, who structured his data according to Rostafi?ski�s questionnaire and documented it with voucher specimens. Rostafi?ski�s questionnaire was concerned mainly with Polish territories, but for historical reasons this also encompassed a large part of Belarus, and we analyzed only the twelve responses (out of the few hundred Rostafi?ski obtained), which concerned the present Belarus. These data were compared with a few 20th century ethnographic sources, and our own 40 interviews and questionnaires from Belarus. Results and discussion 58 taxa of wild food plants used in the 19th century were identified. Some of them are still used in modern Belarus, others are probably completely forgotten. In the 19th century several species of wild greens were widely used for making soups. Apart from Rumex, other wild greens are now either forgotten or rarely used. The list of species used in the 20th and 21st century encompasses 67 taxa. Nearly half of them were mentioned by Rostafi?ski�s respondents. The list of fruit species has not changed much, although in the 19th century fruits were mainly eaten raw, or with dairy or floury dishes, and now apart from being eaten raw, they are incorporated in sweet dishes like jams or cakes. Modern comparative data also contain several alien species, some of which have escaped from cultivation and are gathered from a semi-wild state, as well as children's snacks, which were probably collected in the 19th century but were not recorded back then. Conclusion The responses to Rostafi?ski from 1883 present extremely valuable historical material as the use of wild food plants in Belarus has since undergone drastic changes, similar to those, which have taken place in other Eastern European countries. PMID:23557012
The Baseline Questionnaire data set provides information about the household using the primary resident (IRN 01) and other residents who chose to participate. The information is from 1106 Baseline Questionnaires for 534 households. The Baseline Questionnaire was administered to...
The Technician Walkthrough questionnaire data set contains information about each household as determined during a walkthrough by trained technicians. The information is from 403 technician walkthrough questionnaires for 80 households across 6 cycles. The questionnaire includes...
Validation of a self-administered questionnaire for assessing occupational and environmental exposures of pregnant women
The present investigation sought to determine whether a self-administered questionnaire could be used to obtain occupational information from pregnant women attending the obstetrical clinics at the University of California, San Francisco from July to November 1986. The authors compared the accuracy of responses of 57 women on the self-administered questionnaire with those obtained on a detailed clinical interview by an occupational health professional. The self-administered questionnaire and the clinical interview included information on the woman's job title, the type of company she worked for, the level of physical activity, her exposures on the job and at home, and her partner's occupation. The authors also examined whether the validity of the self-administered questionnaire could be improved on review by an industrial hygienist. The questionnaire took less than 20 minutes to complete, with over 90% of the women answering three-quarters of it. It was substantially accurate in obtaining information on number of hours worked during pregnancy, type of shift worked, and stress level in the workplace; exposure to radiation, video display terminals, fumes, gases, and cigarette smoke in the workplace; and exposure to pesticides, paint, and cigarette smoke at home. On those variables for which the responses on the self-administered questionnaire were less accurate, review by the industrial hygienist improved the level of accuracy considerably. These findings suggest that a self-administered questionnaire can be used to obtain valid information from pregnant women attending a prenatal clinic.
Eskenazi, B.; Pearson, K.
Does training-induced orthostatic hypotension result from reduced carotid baroreflex responsiveness?
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
As manned space travel has steadily increased in duration and sophistication, the answer to a simple, relevant question remains elusive. Does endurance exercise training - high intensity rhythmic activity, performed regularly for extended periods of time - alter the disposition to, or severity of, postflight orthostatic hypotension? Research results continue to provide different views; however, data are difficult to compare because of the following factors that vary between investigations: the type of orthostatic stress imposed (+Gz, lower body negative pressure (LBNP), head-up tilt); pretest perturbations used (exercise, heat exposure, head-down tilting, bed rest, water immersion, hypohydration, pharmacologically-induced diuresis); the length of the training program used in longitudinal investigations (days versus weeks versus months); the criteria used to define fitness; and the criteria used to define orthostatic tolerance. Generally, research results indicate that individuals engaged in aerobic exercise activities for a period of years have been reported to have reduced orthostatic tolerance compared to untrained control subjects, while the results of shorter term longitudinal studies remain equivocal. Such conclusions suggest that chronic athletic training programs reduce orthostatic tolerance, whereas relatively brief (days to weeks) training programs do not affect orthostatic tolerance to any significant degree (increase or decrease). A primary objective was established to identify the alterations in blood pressure control that contribute to training-induced orthostatic hypotension (TIOH). Although any aspect of blood pressure regulation is suspect, current research has been focused on the baroreceptor system. Reductions in carotid baroreflex responsiveness have been documented in exercise-trained rabbits, reportedly due to an inhibitory influence from cardiac afferent, presumably vagal, nerve fibers that is abolished with intrapericardiac denervation. The purpose of this investigation was to attempt to determine if similar relationships existed in men with varied levels of fitness, using maximal aerobic power, VO2 max, as the marker of fitness.
Pawelczyk, James A.; Raven, Peter B.
For humans exposed to electromagnetic (EM) radiation, the resulting thermophysiologic response is not well understood. Because it is unlikely that this information will be determined from quantitative experimentation, it is necessary to develop theoretical models which predict th...
Diagnostics for Redesigning Survey Questionnaires: Measuring Work in the Current Population Survey
Between 1986 and 1993, a program of questionnaire design and cognitive research wasconducted by the Census Bureau and Bureau of Labor Statistics, to improve labor forcemeasurements in the Current Population Survey. As part of the research program, diagnosticmeasures for systematically testing and evaluating alternative questionnaire versions weredeveloped and applied. This paper reports results of applying two methods, special follow-upprobes and
Elizabeth Martin; Anne E. Polivka
The Development of a Questionnaire on Academic Hardiness for Late Elementary School Children
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
The purpose of the research was to develop a questionnaire to measure dimensions of academic hardiness in late elementary school children. Questionnaires were distributed to 1474 children. After a set of exploratory factor analyses in studies 1 and 2, the confirmatory factor analysis results provided support for the 9-factor solution which�
Kamtsios, Spiridon; Karagiannopoulou, Evangelia
Factor Structure and Psychometric Properties of the Young Schema Questionnaire (Short Form) in Chinese Undergraduate Students
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
This study investigated cross-cultural differences in the factor structure and psychometric properties of the Young Schema Questionnaire (short form; YSQ-SF). The participants were 712 Chinese undergraduate students. The total sample was randomly divided into two sub-samples. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) was conducted on questionnaire results�
Cui, Lixia; Lin, Wenwen; Oei, Tian P. S.
Psychometric Properties of Questionnaires on Functional Health Status in Oropharyngeal Dysphagia: A Systematic Literature Review
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
Speyer, Ren�e; Cordier, Reinie; Kertscher, Berit; Heijnen, Bas J
The Caregiver Burden Questionnaire for Heart Failure (CBQ-HF): face and content validity
Background A new caregiver burden questionnaire for heart failure (CBQ-HF v1.0) was developed based on previously conducted qualitative interviews with HF caregivers and with input from HF clinical experts. Version 1.0 of the CBQ-HF included 41 items measuring the burden associated with caregiving in the following domains: physical, emotional/psychological, social, and impact on caregiver�s life. Following initial development, the next stage was to evaluate caregivers� understanding of the questionnaire items and their conceptual relevance. Methods To evaluate the face and content validity of the new questionnaire, cognitive interviews were conducted with caregivers of heart failure patients. The cognitive interviews included a �think aloud� exercise as the patient completed the CBQ-HF, followed by more specific probing questions to better understand caregivers� understanding, interpretation and the relevance of the instructions, items, response scales and recall period. Results Eighteen caregivers of heart failure patients were recruited. The mean age of the caregivers was 50�years (SD?=?10.2). Eighty-three percent of caregivers were female and most commonly the patient was either a spouse (44%) or a parent (28%). Among the patients 55% were NYHA Class 2 and 45% were NYHA Class 3 or 4. The caregiver cognitive interviews demonstrated that the CBQ-HF was well understood, relevant and consistently interpreted. From the initial 41 item questionnaire, fifteen items were deleted due to conceptual overlap and/or item redundancy. The final 26-item CBQ-HF (v3.0) uses a 5-point Likert severity scale, assessing 4 domains of physical, emotional/psychological, social and lifestyle burdens using a 4-week recall period. Conclusions The CBQ-HF (v3.0) is a comprehensive and relevant measure of subjective caregiver burden with strong content validity. This study has established that the CBQ-HF (v3.0) has strong face and content validity and should be valuable as an outcomes measure to help understand and monitor the relationship between patient heart failure severity and caregiver burden. A Translatability AssessmentSM of the measure has since been performed confirming the cultural appropriateness of the measure and psychometric validation is planned for the future to further explore the reliability, and validity of the new questionnaire in a larger caregiver sample. PMID:23706131
Biological responses to space: results of the experiment ``exobiological unit'' of ERA on EURECA I
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Spores of different strains of Bacillus subtilis and the Escherichia coli plasmid pUC19 were exposed to selected conditions of space (space vacuum and/or defined wavebands and intensities of solar ultraviolet radiation) in the experiment ER 161 ``Exobiological Unit'' of the Exobiology Radiation Assembly (ERA) on board of the European Retrievable Carrier (EURECA). After the approximately 11 months lasting mission, their responses were studied in terms of survival, mutagenesis in the his (B. subtilis) or lac locus (pUC19), induction of DNA strand breaks, efficiency of DNA repair systems, and the role of external protective agents. The data were compared with those of a simultaneously running ground control experiment. The survival of spores treated with the vacuum of space, however shielded against solar radiation, is substantially increased, if they are exposed in multilayers and/or in the presence of glucose as protective, whereas all spores in ``artificial meteorites'', i.e. embedded in clays or simulated Martian soil, are killed. Vacuum treatment leads to an increase of mutation frequency in spores, but not in plasmid DNA. Extraterrestrial solar ultraviolet radiation is mutagenic, induces strand breaks in the DNA and reduces survival substantially; however, even at the highest fluences, i.e. 3 x 10^8 Jm^-2, a small but significant fraction of spores survives the insolation. Action spectroscopy confirms results of previous space experiments of a synergistic action of space vacuum and solar UV radiation with DNA being the critical target.
Horneck, G.; Eschweiler, U.; Reitz, G.; Wehner, J.; Willimek, R.; Strauch, K.
Validation Studies of the Paffenbarger Physical Activity Questionnaire/College Alumnus Questionnaire (CAQ)
This article states the PA questionnaire used is the same as that used in the Singh 1996 validation study (which does appear to be the Paffenbarger). But in fact, the two questionnaires (which are provided in both articles) don�t appear to be the same; and the Singh 2001 version does not ask specific walking questions.
Reliability of the Conflict Resolution Questionnaire: Considerations for Using and Developing Internet-Based Questionnaires
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
In the current information age, there is a growing use of and reliance on the Internet. One area of concern for educators is the communication of information using an electronic questionnaire interface. Therefore, it seems pertinent to look at the issue of dissemination of Internet questionnaire information and the integrity of this process.�
Henning, Marcus
Responses of Tundra Ecosystems to Environmental Change: Observational and Experimental Results
Evidence of environmental changes due to human-enhanced climate warming continues to accumulate from polar regions. Responses in tundra and taiga ecosystems to climate changes have been variable because of the wide range in process response rates, from metabolic processes to adjustments in ecosystem carbon balance, and the variability in environmental settings across local to regional scales. For example, strong increases
G. H. Henry
Estimating the Aggregate Agricultural Supply Response: A Survey of Techniques and Results for Developing Countries
For many low-income countries, the impact of structural reforms on economic growth and poverty alleviation crucially depends on the response of aggregate agricultural supply to changing incentives. Despite its policy relevance, the size of this parameter is still largely unknown. This paper discusses the different approaches which may be employed to quantify the agricultural supply response. It turns out that
Rainer Thiele
Measuring family management of transplant tasks: the transplant responsibility questionnaire.
Little is known about how parents and youth perceive their roles in post-transplant management and how this relates to post-transplant adherence. The goals of this study are to (1) describe a new measure, the TRQ, (2) to describe parent and child performance on the TRQ, and to (3) determine the relationship between the TRQ and adherence. We hypothesized that older youth would describe higher post-transplant self-care behaviors, parents would underestimate youth self-care, and greater parent involvement would be associated with better adherence. Participants included 59 parent-child dyads. Inclusion criteria included: (i) youth aged 7-18�yr and (ii) at least three months post-kidney or post-liver transplant. Parents and youth completed the TRQ, and adherence was measured by s.d. of sequential immunosuppressant blood levels. Youth perceived greater levels of self-care than their parents perceived. Older youth reportedly engaged in more self-care than younger youth. Less than 25% of the sample was non-adherent, and non-adherence was unrelated to performance on the TRQ. The TRQ may have utility as a clinical tool to address areas for improvement in youth self-care. The high degree of parental involvement likely explains the high degree of adherence in this sample. PMID:23489734
Kullgren, Kristin A; Hmiel, S Paul; Gevers, Anik
Departmental IT Questionnaire Response and Discussions Key Points and Conclusions
, 2009 Current IT Situation in Units Almost without exception, units feel that their existing IT situation is serving them well. Virtually all units cite a lack of sufficient staffing and their leadership will weaken their operating efficiency, flexibility, and ability to get projects done
Brody, James P.
ENERGY EXCEPTION REQUEST Energy Exception Request Questionnaire
ENERGY EXCEPTION REQUEST Energy Exception Request Questionnaire rev AA.01 2013/04/02 GUIDELINES which exceed the normal schedule by completing this Energy Exception Request and submitting it to the Office of Energy Management. Energy Management will prepare a cost analysis and return
Rock, Chris
Outlier Detection in Test and Questionnaire Data
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Classical methods for detecting outliers deal with continuous variables. These methods are not readily applicable to categorical data, such as incorrect/correct scores (0/1) and ordered rating scale scores (e.g., 0,..., 4) typical of multi-item tests and questionnaires. This study proposes two definitions of outlier scores suited for categorical�
Zijlstra, Wobbe P.; Van Der Ark, L. Andries; Sijtsma, Klaas
Caregivers feeding styles questionnaire. Establishing cutoff points
Technology Transfer Automated Retrieval System (TEKTRAN)
Researchers use the Caregiver's Feeding Styles Questionnaire (CFSQ) to categorize parent feeding into authoritative, authoritarian, indulgent, and uninvolved styles. The CFSQ assesses self-reported feeding and classifies parents using median splits which are used in a substantial body of parenting l...
Immunization Screening Questionnaire Student Health Center
Immunization Screening Questionnaire Student Health Center If Patient is a Minor (17 years old or younger) Signature of Patients Parent or Representative: Description of Legal Guardianship: Phone No. Last satisfaction. I understand the benefits and the risks of the vaccine(s). I request this vaccine be given to me
Hemmers, Oliver
The Emergency Medical Services Safety Attitudes Questionnaire
To characterize safety culture in emergency medical services (EMS), the authors modified a validated safety culture instrument, the Safety Attitudes Questionnaire (SAQ). The pilot instrument was administered to 3 EMS agencies in a large metropolitan area. The authors characterized safety culture across 6 domains: safety climate, teamwork climate, perceptions of management, job satisfaction, working conditions, and stress recognition. The feasibility
P. Daniel Patterson; David T. Huang; Rollin J. Fairbanks; Henry E. Wang
Selective Mutism Questionnaire: Measurement Structure and Validity
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
The psychometric properties of the Selective Mutism Questionnaire (SMQ) are evaluated using a clinical sample of children with selective mutism (SM). The study shows that SMQ is useful in determining the severity of a child's nonspeaking behaviors, the scope of these behaviors and necessary follow up assessment.
Letamendi, Andrea M.; Chavira, Denise A.; Hitchcock, Carla A.; Roesch, Scott C.; Shipon-Blum, Elisa; Stein, Murray B.
Assessing Caregiver Information Needs: A Brief Questionnaire.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
A diagnostic evaluation for a person with suspected Alzheimer's disease is usually initiated by family members whose concerns go beyond strictly medical issues. To determine precisely what questions families want answered, a 15-point questionnaire was developed at a multi-disciplinary geriatric assessment clinic. Caregivers were asked to rate each�
Simonton, Linda J.; Haugland, S. M.
DRUG STUDY QUESTIONNAIRE PROGRAM DIRECTOR:______________________________________ DATE and/or efficacy of a drug? A. If yes, is the testing, study, evaluation or research primarily for use in pharmaceutical pre-market clearance applications to the Food and Drug Administration? 2. Is drug administered
Acton, Scott
INDOOR AIR QUALITY QUESTIONNAIRE HUMAN RESOURCES FORM Risk and Compliance | One Washington Square THE AIR QUALITY ISSUE AND LOCATION Name: Date: Department: Phone No: Work Location: Suspected Air Quality, humidity, drafts, stagnant air, odors)? Is there a history of flooding or water damage? If so, please list
Eirinaki, Magdalini
Utah Drop-Out Drug Use Questionnaire.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
This questionnaire assesses drug use practices in high school drop-outs. The 79 items (multiple choice or apply/not apply) are concerned with demographic data and use, use history, reasons for use/nonuse, attitudes toward drugs, availability of drugs, and drug information with respect to narcotics, amphetamines, LSD, Marijuana, and barbiturates.�
Governor's Citizen Advisory Committee on Drugs, Salt Lake City, UT.
Print Name_______________________________________________________________________________ (Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire)
-Q (Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire) YES NO 1. Has your doctor ever said that you have a heart condition and that you should only do physical activity recommended by a doctor? 2. Do you feel pain in your chest when you do physical activity? 3. In the past month, have you had chest pain when you were
Canadian Version of the Diet History Questionnaire
The Diet History Questionnaire (DHQ) and the DHQ nutrient database were modified for use in Canada through the collaborative efforts of Dr. Amy Subar and staff at the Risk Factor Monitoring and Methods Branch, and Dr. Ilona Csizmadi and colleagues in the Division of Population Health and Information at the Alberta Cancer Board in Canada.
MINNESOTA STATE GRANT QUESTIONNAIRE RETURN FORM: BY MAIL TO: Office of Student Finance 20 Fraser (street, apartment or PO box number, city, state, ZIP code, country) Phone (include area code) SECTION B are not eligible for the Minnesota State Grant. Will you be receiving Wisconsin, South Dakota, North Dakota
Amin, S. Massoud
Validation of the Child Sport Cohesion Questionnaire
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
The purpose of the present study was to test the validity evidence of the Child Sport Cohesion Questionnaire (CSCQ). To accomplish this task, convergent, discriminant, and known-group difference validity were examined, along with factorial validity via confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Child athletes (N = 290, M[subscript age] = 10.73 plus or�
Martin, Luc J.; Carron, Albert V.; Eys, Mark A.; Loughead, Todd
Implementation of an Adaptive Questionnaire Petri Nokelainen
. Motivational profiling in this study is based on the Motivated Strategies for Learning questionnaire (MSLQ), which is developed on the basis of motivational expectancy model (Garcia and Pintrich 1994). MSLQ measures both motivational factors and learning strategies and has been adapted to the research field
Myllymäki, Petri
Cardiff's TELEform: Scanning the Diet History Questionnaire
Software, such as Cardiff's TELEform Information Capture System, is available to create and print a scannable version of the Diet History Questionnaire form. To create booklets, you may still need to hire a professional printer. Using TELEform, you will be able to scan the instrument with an imaging scanner (contact Cardiff for specifications).
Diagnosis of Twin Zygosity by Mailed Questionnaire
A deterministic questionnaire method for zygosity determination is developed for use in epidemiological studies of adult twins. It is based on the answers of both members of a twin pair to two questions on similarity and confusion in childhood. The algorithm of the method is used to determine the zygosity status of a twin pair at two different levels of
Seppo Sarna; Jaakko Kaprio; Pertti Sistonen; Markku Koskenvuo
The Problem of Theodicy and Religious Response to Cancer
The authors studied the religious response to cancer in a group of hematology\\/ oncology-clinic patients. Method: Patients (N = 45) were surveyed with a self-report questionnaire. Five items were designed to reflect the five major categories of theodicy or modes of reconciling suffering with a morally good God. Results: Of the 45 patients, in response to their illness, 67% (N
Vincent D. Moschella; Kristin R. Pressman; Peter Pressman; David E. Weissman
Responsibilities and Training Needs of Paraeducators in Physical Education
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
This study describes responsibilities and training needs of paraeducators in physical education. Paraeducators (n = 138) employed in 34 midwestern schools received a 27-item questionnaire. Of the 138 paraeducators contacted, 76 responded, resulting in a 55.1% response rate. Only 16% of the total respondents (n = 76) reported receiving specific�
Davis, Ronald W.; Kotecki, Jerome E.; Harvey, Michael W.; Oliver, Amy
The Otitis Media-6 questionnaire: psychometric properties with emphasis on factor structure and interpretability
Background The Otitis Media-6 questionnaire (OM-6) is the most frequently used instrument to measure health related quality of life in children with otitis media. The main objectives of this study are 1) to translate and cross-culturally adapt the OM-6 into Danish, and 2) to assess important psychometric properties including structural validity and interpretability of the OM-6 in a Danish population of children suffering from otitis media. Methods The OM-6 was translated and cross-culturally adapted according to international guidelines. A longitudinal validation study enrolled 491 children and their families, and the measurement properties of the OM-6 were evaluated using the Cosmin taxonomy. The properties assessed were construct and structural validity (confirmatory factor analysis) including internal consistency, reproducibility (test-retest reliability and smallest detectable change), responsiveness and interpretability. Results A total of 435 children were eligible to participate in the study. Analyses of structural validity and internal consistency indicated that parent appraisal of hearing and speech problems may be problematic. Both scales showed similarly good test-retest reliability and construct validity, were able to discriminate between diagnostic subgroups and responsive to change. Cut-off values of 16.7 and 30.0 were found to represent minimal important change for the patients. Conclusions The Danish version of the OM-6 is a reliable, valid, responsive and interpretable questionnaire to measure quality of life in children with otitis media. This study sheds light on possible weaknesses of the instrument that needs to be acknowledged in the utilization of the instrument. However, despite these issues our results support the continuing use of OM-6 as a 1-factor functional health scale with a separate global health rating. Furthermore, indications of values representing minimal important change as perceived by the respondent are presented. PMID:24257471
Transplant physicians' perceptions of cord blood transplantation in Korea: a questionnaire survey
Background Although bone marrow (BM) or mobilized peripheral blood (PB) is frequently used as the source of hematopoietic stem cells, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) using cord blood (CB) is gradually gaining popularity in many countries. However, BM or PB is still preferred over CB in Korea. Therefore, we tried to assess the awareness of CB transplantation (CBT) among domestic HSCT physicians and develop strategies for boosting its utilization by administering questionnaires to some of these physicians. Methods A direct questionnaire survey was conducted using the "Audience Response System" among 301 members who attended the annual meeting of the Korean Society of Blood and Marrow Transplantation. The data were analyzed for only 67 board certified physicians who were directly involved in HSCT activities. Results The poor outcomes resulting from insufficient experience in CBT was designated by the physicians as the main reason for the low domestic implementation of HSCT using CB. Other reasons identified in the survey were distrust in the quality and management of domestic CB and the high cost of obtaining CB. Conclusion Increasing the use of donated CB would foremost require increasing the inventory of donated CB containing a sufficient cell number for CBT and securing structured quality control of the CB banks. In addition, it would be necessary to minimize CB supply costs and continue to provide academic data, including CBT guidelines, so that clinicians could perform CBT with more confidence. PMID:25548755
Choi, Byeong Seon; Mun, Yeung-Chul; Kim, Ji Yoon
Modern Gamma Knife radiosurgery of vestibular schwannomas: treatment concept, volumetric tumor response, and functional results.
The objective of the present study was longitudinal evaluation of the volumetric tumor response and functional results after Gamma Knife radiosurgery of vestibular schwannomas, performed according to the modern standards of treatment. From October 2003 to September 2007, 133 consecutive patients with vestibular schwannomas were treated according to the concept of robotic Gamma Knife microradiosurgery, which is based on precise irradiation of the lesion, sparing adjacent structures, and delivery of the high radiation energy to the target. Multiple small-sized isocenters located within the border of the neoplasm were applied. The mean marginal dose was 11.5�Gy (range, 11-12�Gy). In total, 126 cases with a minimum posttreatment follow-up of 2�years (range, 2-7 years; median, 4�years) were analyzed. Temporary enlargement was noted in 25�% of tumors at 6�months after radiosurgery. At 3�years of follow-up, tumor shrinkage, stabilization, and increase in volume were marked in 73�%, 23�%, and 4�% of cases, respectively. All progressing lesions spontaneously stabilized later on and did not require additional management. In 3�% of patients, transitory impairment of the facial nerve function was marked; however, neither its permanent dysfunction nor trigeminal neuropathy attributed to radiosurgery was noted. Impairment of hearing compared to its pretreatment level was revealed in 4�%, 12�%, 13�%, and 16�% of patients at 6�months, 1�year, 2�years, and 3�years after radiosurgery, respectively, and this trend was statistically significant (P?=?0.0042). Overall, 77�% of patients with serviceable hearing before treatment preserved it 3�years thereafter. In conclusion, modern Gamma Knife radiosurgery provides effective and safe management of vestibular schwannomas. Nevertheless, possible temporary tumor enlargement, delay of its growth arrest, transient dysfunction of the cranial nerves, and gradual deterioration of hearing after irradiation should be always taken into consideration. PMID:25519767
Lipski, Samuel M; Hayashi, Motohiro; Chernov, Mikhail; Levivier, Marc; Okada, Yoshikazu
Polyfunctional responses by human T cells result from sequential release of cytokines
The release of cytokines by T cells defines a significant part of their functional activity in vivo, and their ability to produce multiple cytokines has been associated with beneficial immune responses. To date, time-integrated ...
Bagheri, Nada
Program Strategies and Results for California�s Energy Efficiency and Demand Response Markets
implementer played by each of the state Investor Owned Utilities (IOUs) is outlined. Each utility is responsible for serving major end use market segments with target programs designed to provide unique value. Within the industrial sector, there is special...
Ehrhard, R.; Hamilton, G.
Incongruent Abstract Stimulus-Response Bindings Result in Response Interference: fMRI and EEG Evidence from Visual Object Classification Priming
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Stimulus repetition often leads to facilitated processing, resulting in neural decreases (repetition suppression) and faster RTs (repetition priming). Such repetition-related effects have been attributed to the facilitation of repeated cognitive processes and/or the retrieval of previously encoded stimulus-response (S-R) bindings. Although�
Horner, Aidan J.; Henson, Richard N.
Company Demographics as an Influence on Adoption of Quick Response by North Carolina Apparel Manufacturers
Quick Response has proven financial benefits, but less than one half of U.S. apparel manufacturers have implemented it. This study investigated apparel manufacturers' demographics as related to adoption of Quick Response. Two hundred and three North Carolina apparel manufacturers were sent a mailed questionnaire, resulting in a 48% (N = 66) adjusted return rate.Factor analysis reduced the 17 Quick Response
Doris H. Kincade; Nancy L. Cassill
Immune response to anti-HBV vaccination: Study of conditioning factors
The Authors studied the immune responses of 691 health care workers who were given HEVAC B vaccine (455 subjects) and HB Vax vaccine (216 subjects). The immune responses were correlated with data obtained by questionnaires: age, sex, B.M.I., drinking habits, smoking. The results showed correlation between these variables and immune response to vaccine.
G. Corrao; M. Calleri; M. Zotti; C. Barral; R. Russo; D. Garella; A. Moiraghi Ruggenini
The relationship among sex roles, living arrangements, and the division of household responsibilities
Twenty couples living together, 10 married and 10 unmarried, were given the Bem Sex-Role Inventory and a questionnaire on the performance of household responsibilities. Findings provided partial support for hypotheses relating more traditional sex roles, living arrangements, and division of household responsibilities. Results also indicated a greater variability in household responsibilities for unmarried males and for males and females who
Florence L. Denmark; Jeffrey S. Shaw; Samuel D. Ciali
Solar Resource and Forecasting QuestionnaireSolar Resource and Forecasting QuestionnaireSolar Resource and Forecasting QuestionnaireSolar Resource and Forecasting Questionnaire As someone who is familiar with solar energy issues, we hope that you will tak
Page 1 Solar Resource and Forecasting QuestionnaireSolar Resource and Forecasting QuestionnaireSolar Resource and Forecasting QuestionnaireSolar Resource and Forecasting Questionnaire As someone who is familiar with solar energy issues, we hope that you will take a few moments to answer this short survey
Islam, M. Saif
Reliability and validity of two frequently used self-administered physical activity questionnaires in adolescents
Background To create and find accurate and reliable instruments for the measurement of physical activity has been a challenge in epidemiological studies. We investigated the reliability and validity of two different physical activity questionnaires in 71 adolescents aged 13�18 years; the WHO, Health Behaviour in Schoolchildren (HBSC) questionnaire, and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ, short version). Methods The questionnaires were administered twice (8�12 days apart) to measure reliability. Validity was assessed by comparing answers from the questionnaires with a cardiorespiratory fitness test (VO2peak) and seven days activity monitoring with the ActiReg, an instrument measuring physical activity level (PAL) and total energy expenditure (TEE). Results Intraclass correlation coefficients for reliability for the WHO HBSC questionnaire were 0.71 for frequency and 0.73 for duration. For the frequency question, there was a significant difference between genders; 0.87 for girls and 0.59 for boys (p < 0.05). The intraclass correlation coefficients the IPAQ varied between 0.10 and 0.62 for the reliability. Spearman correlation coefficients for validity for both the WHO HBSC questionnaire and the IPAQ (recoded into low, moderate and high activity) measured against VO2peak were fair, ranging between 0.29 � 0.39. The WHO HBSC questionnaire measured against VO2peak for girls were acceptable, ranging between 0.30 � 0.55. Both questionnaires, except the walking question in IPAQ, showed a low correlation with PAL and TEE, ranging between 0.01 and 0.29. Conclusion These data indicate that the WHO HBSC questionnaire had substantial reliability and were acceptable instrument for measuring cardiorespiratory fitness, especially among girls. None of the questionnaires however seemed to be a valid instrument for measuring physical activity compared to TEE and PAL in adolescents. PMID:18627632
Rangul, Vegar; Holmen, Turid Lingaas; Kurtze, Nanna; Cuypers, Koenraad; Midthjell, Kristian
Assessing perceptions about hazardous substances (PATHS): the PATHS questionnaire.
How people perceive the nature of a hazardous substance may determine how they respond when potentially exposed to it. We tested a new Perceptions AbouT Hazardous Substances (PATHS) questionnaire. In Study 1 (N = 21), we assessed the face validity of items concerning perceptions about eight properties of a hazardous substance. In Study 2 (N = 2030), we tested the factor structure, reliability and validity of the PATHS questionnaire across four qualitatively different substances. In Study 3 (N = 760), we tested the impact of information provision on Perceptions AbouT Hazardous Substances scores. Our results showed that our eight measures demonstrated good reliability and validity when used for non-contagious hazards. PMID:23104995
Rubin, G James; Aml�t, Richard; Page, Lisa; Pearce, Julia; Wessely, Simon
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
This article presents the author's response to the reviews of his book, "The Good Life of Teaching: An Ethics of Professional Practice." He begins by highlighting some of the main concerns of his book. He then offers a brief response, doing his best to address the main criticisms of his argument and noting where the four reviewers (Charlene�
Higgins, Chris
Earth is speaking: listen her! On-line questionnaire about anomalous geological and biological phenomena
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Earthquakes can be associated with non-seismic phenomena which may manifest many weeks before and after the main shock. These phenomena are characterized by ground fractures and soil liquefactions at surface often coupled with degassing events, chemical alterations of water and soils, changes in temperature and/or waters level in the epicentral area. Further manifestations include radio disturbances and light emissions. On the other hand, anomalous behavior of animals has been reported to occur before environmental changes. The co-occurrence of several phenomena may be considered as a signal of subsurface changes, and their analysis may be used as possible forecast indicators for seismic events, landslides, damages in infrastructure (e.g., dam) and groundwaters contamination. In order to obtain an accurate statistical analysis of these factors, a pre-crisis large database over a prolonged period of time is a pre-requisite. To this end, we elaborated a questionnaire for the population to pick up signs about anomalous phenomena like as: animal behavior, geological manifestations, effect on vegetation, degassing, changes on aquifers, wells and springs. After the January 25, 2013, mainshock (ML 4.8) in the Garfagnana seismic district, the Bagni di Lucca Municipality was selected as pilot site for testing this questionnaire. The complexity, variety and extension of this territory (165 kmq) sound suitable for this project. Bagni di Lucca is located in the southern border of the Garfagnana seismogenic source, characterized by the carbonate Mesozoic sequences and the Tertiary terrigenous sedimentary deposits of the Tuscan Nappe. The questionnaire was published on Bagni di Lucca web site (https://docs.google.com/file/d/0Bzw3vOYX47XoTGltTVJRbkJuajA/edit) in collaboration with Municipal Commitee, Local Civil Protection and Local Red Cross, and sent by ordinary mail to the citizenry. It is possible to answer to the questionnaire, also anonymously, direct on line (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1LVNVQFzMoJJfNxp2eSPAc4pcwj4_qIdbAnvbCWGyXy8/viewform?pli=1), calling the Local Civil Protection or Local Red Cross, and by mail. In a second time, an application for Smartphone and Tablets will be developed to allow a faster reply. The questionnaire, constituted by eleven questions and organized in four macro-themes (i.e. animal behavior, geological factors, vegetation anomalies and hydrogeological changes) has been published in June 2013 and will remain on-line for several years. Indeed, the social perception is not fully trustworthy during and soon after an earthquake. So far this is the first attempt to acquire data during quiescent times for comparison with post-seismic ones. This approach may provide clues to identify phenomena properly linked to the event. This questionnaire can be a useful tool to educate population not only about earthquake precursors but also to recognize the "Earth language". Submitted testimonies will be statistically analyzed evidencing the specific responses to the different phenomena in space and time. On the basis of obtained results the questionnaire project could be extended to national level.
Sciarra, Alessandra; Quattrocchi, Fedora; Cantucci, Barbara; Mazzarini, Francesco
Seismic Response of a Sedimentary Basin: Preliminary Results from Strong Motion Downhole Array in Taipei Basin
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
The Strong Motion Downhole Array (SMDA) is an array of 32 triggered strong motion broadband seismometers located at eight sites in Taipei Basin. Each site features three to five co-located three-component accelerometers--one at the surface and an additional two to four each down independent boreholes. Located in the center of Taipei Basin is Taipei City and the Taipei metropolitan area, the capital of Taiwan and home to more than 7 million residents. Taipei Basin is in a major seismic hazard area and is prone to frequent large earthquakes producing strong ground motion. This unique three-dimension seismic array presents new frontiers for seismic research in Taiwan and, along with it, new challenges. Frequency-dependent and site-specific amplification of seismic waves from depth to surface has been observed: preliminary results indicate that the top few tens of meters of sediment--not the entire thickness--are responsible for significant frequency-dependent amplification; amplitudes of seismic waves at the surface may be as much as seven times that at depth. Dominant amplification frequencies are interpreted as quarter-wavelength constructive interference between the surface and major interfaces in the sediments. Using surface stations with known orientation as a reference, borehole seismometer orientations in these data--which are unknown, and some of which vary considerably from event to event--have been determined using several methods. After low-pass filtering the strong motion data, iteratively rotating the two horizontal components from an individual borehole station and cross-correlating them with that from a co-located surface station has proven to be very effective. In cases where the iterative cross-correlation method does not provide a good fit, rotating both surface and borehole stations to a common axis of maximum seismic energy provides an alternative approach. The orientation-offset of a borehole station relative to the surface station may be estimated by iteratively rotating the horizontal components of both and calculating the time-integral of the amplitude squared of each component; the difference in orientation between the maximum at the surface and at depth indicates the difference in orientation of the seismometers. After the horizontal orientations of borehole seismometers are correctly resolved, these data can be used in various scientific studies. Up-going and reflected down-going shear waves can be clearly identified, providing an excellent dataset for the study of interval velocity and seismic Q, localized shear wave splitting, and anisotropy. Further refinement of the geophysical structure of Taipei Basin and Northern Taiwan is also possible by combining data from the SMDA with that from the large array of surface stations maintained by the Central Weather Bureau.
Young, B.; Chen, K.; Chiu, J.
Validation fran�aise du questionnaire de d�pendance de l�exercice physique (Exercise Dependence Questionnaire)
IntroductionThe Exercise Dependence Questionnaire (EDQ) conceptualises exercise dependence (ED) within both traditional biomedical and psychosocial perspectives. This tool is a valid and reliable multidimensional measure of ED.
L. Kern; N. Baudin
Inductive analysis methods applied on questionnaires.
The am of this study was to evaluate subjective aspects from questionnaires dealing with dental trauma by applying different computerized inductive techniques within the field of artificial intelligence to questionnaires consisting of descriptive variables and of questions reflecting functional, personal, and social effects of patients' oral situation following dental trauma. As the methodology used is new to many readers in odontologic sciences, a detailed description of both the processes and the terminology is given. Utilizing a neural network as a first step in an analysis of data showed if relations existed in the training set, but the network could not make the relations explicit, so other methods, inductive methods, had to be applied. Inductive methods have the potential constructing rules from a set of examples. The rules combined with domain knowledge can reveal relations between the variables. It can be concluded that the usage of methods based on artificial intelligence can greatly improve explanatory value and make knowledge in databases explicit. PMID:9860094
Robertson, A; Sill�n, R; Nor�n, J G
Validating the Street Survival Skills Questionnaire.
The utility of the Street Survival Skills Questionnaire was investigated using a sample of 18 trainable mentally retarded males attending public schools. Pearson product-moment correlations were computed among the total scores, four standard scores on the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale-Survey Form, and three Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Revised IQs. The Street Skills scores correlated significantly with Vineland Daily Living scores and WISC-R Full Scale and Performance IQs; however, nonsignificant relationships were obtained with WISC-R Verbal IQs, Vineland Composite scores, Communication Domain scores, and Socialization Domain scores. The use of the questionnaire in assessment of adaptive behavior was supported but within a narrow scope, i.e., daily or functional living knowledge. PMID:8153210
Janniro, F; Sapp, G L; Kohler, M P
World War I History Commission Questionnaires
NSDL National Science Digital Library
In 1928, the Library of Virginia inherited a mass of materials from the Virginia War History Commission, which had spent the previous eight years gathering information on Virginia's participation in World War I. Included in this material were over 14,900 four-page questionnaires from a survey of WWI veterans in Virginia. The Library of Virginia has digitized these survey forms and created a free, fully-searchable database. Users have three search options: by word or phrase, combination, and expert/boolean. Search returns offer basic information on each individual, and users must follow the link at the bottom of the page to download the digitized images (in .tif format) of the questionnaire forms. In some cases, respondents submitted photos or additional pages with their forms and these are included in the database.
Views of senior UK doctors about working in medicine: questionnaire survey
Summary Objectives We surveyed the UK medical qualifiers of 1993. We asked closed questions about their careers; and invited them to give us comments, if they wished, about any aspect of their work. Our aim in this paper is to report on the topics that this senior cohort of UK-trained doctors who work in UK medicine raised with us. Design Questionnaire survey Participants 3479 contactable UK-trained medical graduates of 1993. Setting UK. Main outcome measures Comments made by doctors about their work, and their views about medical careers and training in the UK. Method Postal and email questionnaires. Results Response rate was 72% (2507); 2252 were working in UK medicine, 816 (36%) of whom provided comments. Positive comments outweighed negative in the areas of their own job satisfaction and satisfaction with their training. However, 23% of doctors who commented expressed dissatisfaction with aspects of junior doctors� training, the impact of working time regulations, and with the requirement for doctors to make earlier career decisions than in the past about their choice of specialty. Some doctors were concerned about government health service policy; others were dissatisfied with the availability of family-friendly/part-time work, and we are concerned about attitudes to gender and work-life balance. Conclusions Though satisfied with their own training and their current position, many senior doctors felt that changes to working hours and postgraduate training had reduced the level of experience gained by newer graduates. They were also concerned about government policy interventions. PMID:25408920
Lambert, Trevor W; Goldacre, Michael J
Reliability of a self-reported health questionnaire in a periodontal disease study.
This study assesses the reliability of a self-reported health questionnaire completed by 413 subjects aged 25-74 yr in the Erie County Periodontal Disease (ECPD) Study. Specific questions on general and oral health conditions were completed by each subject during a first visit and at a follow-up examination 2 yr later, and the two compared. Results showed that the overall measure of agreement between the two visits is substantial (average kappa, kappa = 0.80). Variation by gender and age were minimal. Questions regarding allergy to medications, oral treatment, reason for tooth extraction, health symptoms and history of systemic diseases exhibited high levels of agreement (kappa ranged from 0.71-0.90). Information on vitamin and mineral intake yielded kappa = 0.63. Oral conditions scored the lowest but were still acceptable (kappa = 0.57). These findings indicate that there were no significant discrepancies in self-reported responses to the health questionnaire used in the ECPD Study. Although the information provided by the subject may not be as accurate as compared to laboratory testing, it is nevertheless a reliable source of information which can be utilized cost-effectively in research studies. PMID:9409459
Ho, A W; Grossi, S G; Dunford, R G; Genco, R J
A questionnaire approach to measuring the relative reinforcing efficacy of snack foods.
Behavioral choice theory and laboratory choice paradigms can provide a framework to understand the reinforcing efficacy or reinforcing value of food. Reinforcing efficacy is measured in the laboratory by assessing how much effort one will engage in to gain access to food as the amount of work progressively increases. However, this method to establish demand curves as estimates of reinforcer efficacy is time consuming and limits the number of reinforcers that can be tested. The general aim of this study was to compare the reinforcing efficacy of snack foods using a behavioral task that requires subjects to respond to gain access to portions of food (LAB task) with a questionnaire version of a purchasing task designed to determine demand curves (QUES task) in nonobese and obese adults (n=24). Results showed correlations between the maximal amount of money that individuals were willing to spend for food (QUES O(max)) and the maximal amount of responses made on the highest reinforcement schedule completed (LAB O(max)) (r=0.45, p<0.05), and between BMI and the LAB O(max) (r=0.43, p<0.05) and the QUES O(max) (r=0.52, p<0.05). The study suggests the questionnaire provides valid measures of reinforcing efficacy that can be used in place of or in conjunction with traditional laboratory paradigms to establish demand curves that describe the behavioral maintaining properties of food. PMID:20188288
Epstein, Leonard H; Dearing, Kelly K; Roba, Lora G
The Tropospheric Response to Tropical and Subtropical Zonally Asymmetric Torques: Analytical and Idealized Numerical Model Results
was similar to a downward controltype balance in the zonal mean. In the presence of a meridional temperature in idealized general circulation model experi- ments. In the absence of a large-scale meridional temperature gradient, the response to an equatorial torque was confined to the tropics and was qualitatively similar
Efficacy of the "Responsive Classroom" Approach: Results from a 3-Year, Longitudinal Randomized Controlled Trial
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
This randomized controlled field trial examined the efficacy of the Responsive Classroom (RC) approach on student achievement. Schools (n = 24) were randomized into intervention and control conditions; 2,904 children were studied from end of second to fifth grade. Students at schools assigned to the RC condition did not outperform students at�
Rimm-Kaufman, Sara E.; Larsen, Ross A. A.; Baroody, Alison E.; Curby, Timothy W.; Ko, Michelle; Thomas, Julia B.; Merritt, Eileen G.; Abry, Tashia; DeCoster, Jamie
Cancer Education Program Evaluation: A Responsive Approach to Planning an Evaluation and Initial Results.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
This paper describes evaluation planning for the Cancer Education Program (CEP) at Ohio State University (OSU). The three-year OSU CEP project was designed as a multidisciplinary cancer education program. A responsive method, which trades off some measurement precision in order to increase the usefulness of the findings, was employed in the�
Pearsol, James A.
Organizational Systems Questionnaire (OSQ) Validity Study.
Marriage and family therapists (MFTs), who are trained in systems theory and consult with complex and difficult systems (e.g., couples and families), are uniquely suited to both assess and intervene in broader organizational systems. However, MFTs are in need of more systemically designed assessment tools to guide and inform their interventions with organizational systems. This study examined the construct and concurrent validity of the Organizational Systems Questionnaire (OSQ). The OSQ is designed to use a systemic framework to measure the construct of organizational functioning. Participants were simultaneously administered the Abridged Job Description Index, Organizational Commitment Questionnaire, Stress in General, and Communication Satisfaction Questionnaire scales along with the OSQ. The OSQ demonstrated good construct validity, factor analysis indicates it is measuring one global factor of organizational functioning, reliability was strong (alpha = .91), and it showed high levels of internal consistency. The OSQ also demonstrated positive concurrent validity with acceptable levels of correlation with the other organizational measures. Overall, the OSQ was found to be a useful and psychometrically sound single-factor measure of organizational functioning. PMID:17437456
Billings, James C; Kimball, Thomas G; Shumway, Sterling T; Korinek, Alan W
Development and Validation of the Pregnancy and Infant Orientation Questionnaire
The purpose of this current study was the construction, scaling, and scale validation of a self-report questionnaire assessing biographical information and motivation for pregnancy and infant care in men and women with disorders of sex development or other gender variations of potential clinical relevance. The overall design of the questionnaire and the initial item pool were derived from related clinical and research experience. Collection of pilot data and, where appropriate, scale construction (via principal components analyses) were based on Canadian convenience samples of heterosexual (HET) and non-HET men and women (N=414). A sample of gender-dysphoric (GDYS) men and women (n=45) was added for validity analysis. Validation of the resulting scales was based on the demonstration of expected scale differences between HET men and women, as well as between HET, non-HET, and GDYS men and between HET, non-HET, and GDYS women, and was successful with one exception. This study concludes that this new questionnaire, in addition to its descriptive sections, provides several distinct scales related to desires for child bearing and child rearing and has good psychometric properties. PMID:19998066
Meyer-Bahlburg, Heino F. L.; Dolezal, Curtis; Johnson, Laurel L.; Kessler, Suzanne J.; Schober, Justine M.; Zucker, Kenneth J.
Psychometric properties of the Questionnaire for Secondary Traumatization
Background During the past several years, there has been a growing interest in the negative effects that providing therapy may have on therapists. Of special interest is a phenomenon called secondary traumatization, which can arise while working with traumatized clients. To develop a simple screening tool for secondary traumatization, a quantitative assessment instrument was constructed using a data-driven approach based on qualitative interviews with affected trauma therapists as well as experienced supervisors in trauma therapy. Objective The aim of the current study was to analyze the psychometric properties of the newly developed Questionnaire for Secondary Traumatization (FST) acute and lifetime version and to determine the most appropriate scoring procedure. Method To this end, three independent samples of psychotherapists (n=371), trauma therapists in training (n=80), and refugee counselors (n=197) filled out an online questionnaire battery. Data structure was analyzed using factor analyses, cluster analyses, and reliability analyses. Results Factor analyses yielded a six-factor structure for both the acute and the lifetime version with only a small number of items loading on differing factors. Cluster analyses suggested a single scale structure of the questionnaire. The FST total score showed good internal consistencies across all three samples, while internal consistency of the six extracted factors was mixed. Conclusion With the FST, a reliable screening instrument for acute and lifetime secondary traumatization is now available which is free of charge and yields a sum score for quick evaluation. The six-factor structure needs to be verified with confirmatory factor analyses. PMID:24427450
Weitkamp, Katharina; Daniels, Judith K.; Klasen, Fionna
The effect of ambient pressure on well chamber response: Monte Carlo calculated results for the HDR 1000 Plus
The determination of the air kerma strength of a brachytherapy seed is necessary for effective treatment planning. Well ionization chambers are used on site at therapy clinics to determine the air kerma strength of seeds. In this work, the response of the Standard Imaging HDR 1000 Plus well chamber to ambient pressure is examined using Monte Carlo calculations. The experimental work examining the response of this chamber as well as other chambers is presented in a companion paper. The Monte Carlo results show that for low-energy photon sources, the application of the standard temperature pressure P{sub TP} correction factor produces an over-response at the reduced air densities/pressures corresponding to high elevations. With photon sources of 20 to 40 keV, the normalized P{sub TP} corrected chamber response is as much as 10% to 20% over unity for air densities/pressures corresponding to an elevation of 3048 m (10000 ft) above sea level. At air densities corresponding to an elevation of 1524 m (5000 ft), the normalized P{sub TP}-corrected chamber response is 5% to 10% over unity for these photon sources. With higher-energy photon sources (>100 keV), the normalized P{sub TP} corrected chamber response is near unity. For low-energy {beta} sources of 0.25 to 0.50 MeV, the normalized P{sub TP}-corrected chamber response is as much as 4% to 12% over unity for air densities/pressures corresponding to an elevation of 3048 m (10000 ft) above sea level. Higher-energy {beta} sources (>0.75 MeV) have a normalized P{sub TP} corrected chamber response near unity. Comparing calculated and measured chamber responses for common {sup 103}Pd- and {sup 125}I-based brachytherapy seeds show agreement to within 2.7% and 1.9%, respectively. Comparing MCNP calculated chamber responses with EGSnrc calculated chamber responses show agreement to within 3.1% at photon energies of 20 to 40 keV. We conclude that Monte Carlo transport calculations accurately model the response of this well chamber. Further, applying the standard P{sub TP} correction factor for this well chamber is insufficient in accounting for the change in chamber response with air pressure for low-energy (<100 keV) photon and low-energy (<0.75 MeV){beta} sources.
Bohm, Tim D.; Griffin, Sheridan L.; DeLuca, Paul M. Jr.; DeWerd, Larry A. [University of Wisconsin-Madison, Department of Medical Physics, Madison, Wisconsin 53706 (United States)
A Dish-based Semi-quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire for Assessment of Dietary Intakes in Epidemiologic Studies in Iran: Design and Development
Background: Earlier forms of food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) used in Iran have extensive lists of foods, traditional categories and food-based design, mostly with the interviewer-administered approach. The aim of the current paper is to describe the development of a dish-based, machine-readable, semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (DFQ). Methods: Within the framework of the Study on the Epidemiology of Psychological, Alimentary Health and Nutrition project, we created a novel FFQ using Harvard FFQ as a model. Results: The following steps were taken to develop the questionnaire: Construction of a list of commonly consumed Iranian foods, definition of portion sizes, design of response options for consumption frequency of each food item and finally a pilot test of the preliminary DFQ. From a comprehensive list of foods and mixed dishes, we included those that were nutrient-rich, consumed reasonably often or contributed to between-person variations. We focused on mixed dishes, rather than their ingredients, along with foods. To shorten the list, the related food items or mixed dishes were categorized together in one food group. These exclusions resulted in a list of 106 foods or dishes in the questionnaire. The portion sizes used in the FFQ were obtained from our earlier studies that used dietary recalls and food records. The frequency response options for the food list varied from 6-9 choices from �never or less than once a month� to �12 or more times per day�. Conclusions: The DFQ could be a reasonable dietary assessment tool for future epidemiological studies in the country. Validation studies are required to assess the validity and reliability of this newly developed questionnaire. PMID:24554989
Keshteli, AH; Esmaillzadeh, Ahmad; Rajaie, Somayeh; Askari, Gholamreza; Feinle-Bisset, Christine; Adibi, Peyman
Response Modeling of Lightweight Charring Ablators and Thermal Radiation Testing Results
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Under NASA's In-Space Propulsion/Aerocapture Program, ARA conducted arc-jet and thermal-radiation ablation test series in 2003 for advanced development, characterization, and response modeling of SRAM-20, SRAM-17, SRAM-14, and PhenCarb-20 ablators. Testing was focused on the future Titan Explorer mission. Convective heating rates (CW) were as high as 153 W/sq cm in the IHF and radiation rates were 100 W/sq cm in the Solar Tower Facility. The ablators showed good performance in the radiation environment without spallation, which was initially a concern, but they also showed higher in-depth temperatures when compared to analytical predictions based on arc-jet thermal-ablation response models. More testing in 2003 is planned in both of these facility to generate a sufficient data base for Titan TPS engineering.
Congdon, William M.; Curry, Donald M.; Rarick, Douglas A.; Collins, Timothy J.
Leptin-Responsive GABAergic Neurons Regulate Fertility through Pathways That Result in Reduced Kisspeptinergic Tone
The adipocyte-derived hormone leptin plays a critical role in the central transmission of energy balance to modulate reproductive function. However, the neurocircuitry underlying this interaction remains elusive, in part due to incomplete knowledge of first-order leptin-responsive neurons. To address this gap, we explored the contribution of predominantly inhibitory (GABAergic) neurons versus excitatory (glutamatergic) neurons in the female mouse by selective ablation of the leptin receptor in each neuronal population: Vgat-Cre;Leprlox/lox and Vglut2-Cre;Leprlox/lox mice, respectively. Female Vgat-Cre;Leprlox/lox but not Vglut2-Cre;Leprlox/lox mice were obese. Vgat-Cre;Leprlox/lox mice had delayed or absent vaginal opening, persistent diestrus, and atrophic reproductive tracts with absent corpora lutea. In contrast, Vglut2-Cre;Leprlox/lox females exhibited reproductive maturation and function comparable to Leprlox/lox control mice. Intracerebroventricular administration of kisspeptin-10 to Vgat-Cre;Leprlox/lox female mice elicited robust gonadotropin responses, suggesting normal gonadotropin-releasing hormone neuronal and gonadotrope function. However, adult ovariectomized Vgat-Cre;Leprlox/lox mice displayed significantly reduced levels of Kiss1 (but not Tac2) mRNA in the arcuate nucleus, and a reduced compensatory luteinizing hormone increase compared with control animals. Estradiol replacement after ovariectomy inhibited gonadotropin release to a similar extent in both groups. These animals also exhibited a compromised positive feedback response to sex steroids, as shown by significantly lower Kiss1 mRNA levels in the AVPV, compared with Leprlox/lox mice. We conclude that leptin-responsive GABAergic neurons, but not glutamatergic neurons, act as metabolic sensors to regulate fertility, at least in part through modulatory effects on kisspeptin neurons. PMID:24760864
Martin, Cecilia; Navarro, V�ctor M.; Simavli, Serap; Vong, Linh; Carroll, Rona S.; Lowell, Bradford B.
Recombinant rabies virus expressing IFN?1 enhanced immune responses resulting in its attenuation and stronger immunogenicity.
Several studies have shown that type 1 interferons (IFNs) exert multiple biological effects on both innate and adaptive immune responses. Here, we investigated the pathogenicity and immunogenicity of recombinant rabies virus (RABV) expressing canine interferon ?1 (rHEP-CaIFN?1). It was shown that Kun Ming (KM) mice that received a single intramuscular immunization with rHEP-CaIFN?1 had an earlier increase and a higher level of virus-neutralizing antibody titers compared with immunization of the parent HEP-Flury. A challenge experiment further confirmed that more mice that were immunized with rHEP-CaIFN?1 survived compared with mice immunized with the parent virus. Quantitative real-time PCR indicated that rHEP-CaIFN?1 induced a stronger innate immune response, especially the type 1 IFN response. Flow cytometry was conducted to show that rHEP-CaIFN?1 recruited more activated B cells in lymph nodes and CD8 T cells in the peripheral blood, which is beneficial to achieve virus clearance in the early infective stage. PMID:25310498
Wang, Yifei; Tian, Qin; Xu, Xiaojuan; Yang, Xianfeng; Luo, Jun; Mo, Weiyu; Peng, Jiaojiao; Niu, Xuefeng; Luo, Yongwen; Guo, Xiaofeng
The Children's Eating Behaviour Questionnaire: factorial validity and association with Body Mass Index in Dutch children aged 6�7
Background The Children's Eating Behaviour Questionnaire (CEBQ) is a parent-report measure designed to assess variation in eating style among children. In the present study we translated the CEBQ and examined its factor structure in a sample of parents of 6- and 7-year-old children in the Netherlands. Additionally, associations between the mean scale scores of the instrument and children's body mass index (BMI) were assessed. Methods In total, 135 parents of primary school children aged 6 and 7 completed the questionnaire (response rate 41.9%). Children's BMI was converted into standardised z-scores, adjusted for child gender and age to examine the association between mean scale scores and child weight status. Results Results generally confirmed the theoretical factor structure, with acceptable internal reliability and between-subscale correlations. Linear regression analyses revealed that BMI z-scores were positively associated with the 'food approach' subscales of the CEBQ (food responsiveness, enjoyment of food, emotional overeating) (?'s 0.15 to 0.22) and negatively with 'food avoidant' subscales (satiety responsiveness, slowness in eating, emotional undereating, and food fussiness) (?'s -0.09 to -0.25). Significant relations with child BMI z-scores were found for food responsiveness (p = 0.02), enjoyment of food (p = 0.03), satiety responsiveness (p = 0.01) and slowness in eating (p = 0.01). Conclusion The results support the use of the CEBQ as a psychometrically sound tool for assessing children's eating behaviours in Dutch children and the study demonstrates its applicability in overweight-related studies. PMID:18937832
Sleddens, Ester FC; Kremers, Stef PJ; Thijs, Carel
The development and application of a questionnaire designed to measure pre-existing, process, and outcome variables in the productivity measurement and enhancement
The ProMES questionnaire was developed to assess individuals' experiences as they relate to the implementation of the Productivity Measurement and Enhancement System. The questionnaire, which resulted in a total of 30 subscales that assess...
Decuir, Arlette Desha
Global response of terrestrial ecosystem structure and function to CO2 and climate change: results from six
Global response of terrestrial ecosystem structure and function to CO2 and climate change: results- tion and climate change are illustrated using six dynamic global vegetation models that explicitly, from differences in the way that modelled global NPP responds to a changing climate. The simulations
White, Andrew
Elastic response of cubic crystals to biaxial strain: Analytic results and comparison to density functional theory for InAs
-elasticity theory CET to determine general analytic expressions for the strain tensor, the Poisson ratioElastic response of cubic crystals to biaxial strain: Analytic results and comparison to density functional theory for InAs T. Hammerschmidt,1 P. Kratzer,1,2 and M. Scheffler1 1Fritz-Haber-Institut der Max
Improved Metabolic Control Results in Better Myogenic Response of Retinal Arterioles in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus Type 1
Aims: The retina is protected against high blood pressure by the myogenic constriction of arterioles (the Bayliss effect). Hyperglycemia impairs this retinal autoregulation by endothelial dysfunction. The purpose of this prospective pilot study was to test whether improved metabolic control results in a measurable effect on the myogenic response of human retinal arterioles to acute increases in blood pressure. Methods:
M. Blum; C. Kloos; S. G�nther; W. Hunger-Dathe; U. A. M�ller
Monitoring the results of Canada/U.S.A. acid rain control programs: some lake responses.
Aquatic acidification by deposition of airborne pollutants emerged as an environmental issue in southeastern Canada during the 1970s. Drawing information from the extensive research and monitoring programs, a sequence of issue assessments demonstrated the necessity of reducing the anthropogenic emissions of acidifying pollutants, particularly sulphur dioxide (SO2). The 1991 Canada-U.S. Air Quality Agreement (AQA) was negotiated to reduce North American SO2 emissions by approximately 40% relative to 1980 levels by 2010, and at present, both countries have reduced emissions beyond their AQA commitment. In response to reduced SO2 emissions, atmospheric deposition of sulphate (SO4(2-)) and SO4(2-) concentrations in many lakes have declined, particularly in south-central Ontario and southern Qu�bec. Sulphate deposition still exceeds aquatic critical loads throughout southeastern Canada however. Increasing pH or alkalinity (commonly deemed 'recovery') has been observed in only some lakes. Several biogeochemical factors have intervened to modify the lake chemistry response to reduced SO4(2-) input, notably release of stored SO4(2-) from wetlands following periods of drought and reduction in the export of base cations from terrestrial soils. Three examples from Ontario are presented to illustrate these responses. Significant increases in pH and alkalinity have been observed in many lakes in the Sudbury area of Ontario due to the large reductions in local SO2 emissions; 'early-stage' biological recovery is evident in these lakes. An integrated assessment model predicts that AQA emission reductions will not be sufficient to promote widespread chemical or biological recovery of Canadian lakes. Monitoring and modeling are mutually supporting assessment activities and both must continue. PMID:14570408
Jeffries, D S; Brydges, T G; Dillon, P J; Keller, W
Response of non-equilibrium systems at criticality: exact results for the Glauber-Ising chain
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
We investigate the non-equilibrium two-time correlation and response functions and the associated fluctuation-dissipation ratio for the ferromagnetic Ising chain with Glauber dynamics. The scaling behaviour of these quantities at low temperature and large times is studied in detail. This analysis encompasses the self-similar domain-growth (aging) regime, the spatial and temporal Porod regimes, and the convergence toward equilibrium. The fluctuation-dissipation ratio admits a non-trivial limit value Xicons/Journals/Common/infty" ALT="infty" ALIGN="MIDDLE"/> = 1/2 at zero temperature, and more generally in the aging regime.
Godr�che, C.; Luck, J. M.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Describes the Collegiate Results Instrument (CRI), which measures a range of collegiate outcomes for alumni 6 years after graduation. The CRI was designed to target alumni from institutions across market segments and assess their values, abilities, work skills, occupations, and pursuit of lifelong learning. (EV)
Zemsky, Robert; Shaman, Susan; Shapiro, Daniel B.
The Psychiatric Care Satisfaction Questionnaire: a reliability and validity study.
Patient satisfaction can be a useful marker in evaluating the quality of psychiatric care. However, this form of measurement has been hampered by the lack of attention paid to the psychometric properties of instruments devised. The Psychiatric Care Satisfaction Questionnaire (PCSQ) was developed and tests of acceptability, validity and reliability were undertaken using 52 inpatients. Content validity was assessed by surveying psychiatrists, other mental health professionals, MIND workers and patient groups. Thirty-six (67.9%) of all mental health professionals felt that the questionnaire was a useful measure of patients' satisfaction with their care, and many comments also suggested high consensual validity. In terms of content validity, responses from patient groups indicated that the majority (63.6%) felt it to be a useful measure of patient satisfaction and 70.5% felt all the areas covered were important. Concurrent and criterion validity were also good, with high correlations with existing scales and with those on a section being significantly less satisfied on the PCSQ (F = 13.3, P = 0.0004). Test-retest reliability was adequate (Cohen's kappa 0.48-0.80) and the internal consistency of the PCSQ was good, at 0.82 (Cronbach's alpha). The PCSQ performed well in all aspects of validity and reliability, indicating that it has good psychometric properties and can be a useful tool for measuring patient satisfaction. However, there remains the need to analyse more closely the concept of satisfaction and its determinants. PMID:10189818
Barker, D A; Orrell, M W
The Women's Health Questionnaire (WHQ): Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ).
The Women's Health Questionnaire (WHQ) is a measure of mid-aged women's emotional and physical health. Since its publication in 1992 the WHQ has been widely used in multinational clinical trials, in epidemiological studies as well as in the evaluation of non-medical treatments. In particular the WHQ has been included as a quality of life measure in trials of hormonal preparations for peri and post menopausal women and in studies using a variety of preventative interventions for mid-aged and older women. The questionnaire was developed in English and standardised on a sample of women aged 45-65 years. It is reliable, has good concurrent validity and is sensitive to detecting change, and is available in 27 languages. The range of subscales included in the WHQ enable a detailed assessment of dimensions of emotional and physical health, such as depression, anxiety, sleep problems, somatic symptoms, with optional subscales for menstrual problems and sexual difficulties. The WHQ is the first measure to be included in the MAPI Research Institute's database, the International Health-related Quality of Life Outcomes Database (IQOD). Drawing upon data from international studies this project aims to produce reference values for cross-culturally valid, reliable and responsive quality of life instruments. In addition to this work, a revised shorter version of the WHQ is currently being developed. PMID:14521718
Hunter, Myra S
The Women's Health Questionnaire (WHQ): Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The Women's Health Questionnaire (WHQ) is a measure of mid-aged women's emotional and physical health. Since its publication in 1992 the WHQ has been widely used in multinational clinical trials, in epidemiological studies as well as in the evaluation of non-medical treatments. In particular the WHQ has been included as a quality of life measure in trials of hormonal preparations for peri and post menopausal women and in studies using a variety of preventative interventions for mid-aged and older women. The questionnaire was developed in English and standardised on a sample of women aged 45�65 years. It is reliable, has good concurrent validity and is sensitive to detecting change, and is available in 27 languages. The range of subscales included in the WHQ enable a detailed assessment of dimensions of emotional and physical health, such as depression, anxiety, sleep problems, somatic symptoms, with optional subscales for menstrual problems and sexual difficulties. The WHQ is the first measure to be included in the MAPI Research Institute's database, the International Health-related Quality of Life Outcomes Database (IQOD). Drawing upon data from international studies this project aims to produce reference values for cross-culturally valid, reliable and responsive quality of life instruments. In addition to this work, a revised shorter version of the WHQ is currently being developed. PMID:14521718
Hunter, Myra S
Lacustrine responses to decreasing wet mercury deposition rates: results from a case study in northern Minnesota
We present a case study comparing metrics of methylmercury (MeHg) contamination for four undeveloped lakes in Voyageurs National Park to wet atmospheric deposition of mercury (Hg), sulfate (SO4�2), and hydrogen ion (H+) in northern Minnesota. Annual wet Hg, SO4�2, and H+ deposition rates at two nearby precipitation monitoring sites indicate considerable decreases from 1998 to 2012 (mean decreases of 32, 48, and 66%, respectively). Consistent with decreases in the atmospheric pollutants, epilimnetic aqueous methylmercury (MeHgaq) and mercury in small yellow perch (Hgfish) decreased in two of four lakes (mean decreases of 46.5% and 34.5%, respectively, between 2001 and 2012). Counter to decreases in the atmospheric pollutants, MeHgaq increased by 85% in a third lake, whereas Hgfish increased by 80%. The fourth lake had two disturbances in its watershed during the study period (forest fire; changes in shoreline inundation due to beaver activity); this lake lacked overall trends in MeHgaq and Hgfish. The diverging responses among the study lakes exemplify the complexity of ecosystem responses to decreased loads of atmospheric pollutants.
Brigham, Mark E.; Sandheinrich, Mark B.; Gay, David A.; Maki, Ryan P.; Krabbenhoft, David P.; Wiener, James G.
Further validation of the driving vengeance questionnaire.
The present study further validated the Driving Vengeance Questionnaire (DVQ), assessing the frequency of past acts of severe and dangerous violent driving behaviors, as well as milder driver aggression measured in actual driving conditions. DVQ scores were predicted by driver violence, where vengeful drivers reported greater acts of past violence. DVQ scores were also predicted by mild driver aggression measured in high traffic congestion, such that vengeful drivers were more likely to exhibit mild aggression in high congestion conditions. Finally, the DVQ demonstrated high internal consistency (alpha = 0.81), demonstrating the DVQ to be a reliable and valid measure of driving vengeance. PMID:11688930
Hennessy, D A; Wiesenthal, D L
The Rivermead Post Concussion Symptoms Questionnaire
Objective��To investigate the factor structure of the Rivermead Post Concussion Symptoms Questionnaire (RPQ) among individuals seen as\\u000a part of routine follow-up following traumatic brain injury.\\u000a \\u000a \\u000a \\u000a Methods��RPQ data from 168 participants was examined (mean age 35.2, SD 14.3; 89% with post traumatic amnesia duration�<�24 hours)\\u000a six months after admission to an Accident & Emergency Department following TBI. Structural equation modelling was
Seb Potter; Eleanor Leigh; Derick Wade; Simon Fleminger
A self-report comorbidity questionnaire for haemodialysis patients
Background Patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) have multiple comorbid conditions. Obtaining comorbidity data from medical records is cumbersome. A self-report comorbidity questionnaire is a useful alternative. Our aim in this study was to examine the predictive value of a self-report comorbidity questionnaire in terms of survival in ESRD patients. Methods We studied a prospective cross-sectional cohort of 282 haemodialysis (HD) patients in a single centre. Participants were administered the self-report questionnaire during an HD session. Information on their comorbidities was subsequently obtained from an examination of the patient�s medical records. Levels of agreement between parameters derived from the questionnaire, and from the medical records, were examined. Participants were followed-up for 18 months to collect survival data. The influence on survival of comorbidity scores derived from the self-report data (the Composite Self-report Comorbidity Score [CSCS]) and from medical records data - the Charlson Comorbidity Index [CCI] were compared. Results The level of agreement between the self-report items and those obtained from medical records was almost perfect with respect the presence of diabetes (Kappa score ? 0.97), substantial for heart disease and cancer (? 0.62 and ? 0.72 respectively), moderate for liver disease (? 0.51), only fair for lung disease, arthritis, cerebrovascular disease, and depression (? 0.34, 0.35, 0.34 and 0.29 respectively). The CSCS was strongly predictive of survival in regression models (Nagelkerke R2 value 0.202), with a predictive power similar to that of the CCI (Nagelkerke R2 value 0.211). The influences of these two parameters were additive in the models � suggesting that these parameters make different contributions to the assessment of comorbidity. Conclusion This self-report comorbidity questionnaire is a viable tool to collect comorbidity data and may have a role in the prediction of short-term survival in patients with end-stage renal disease on haemodialysis. Further work is required in this setting to refine the tool and define its role. PMID:25135668
Evaluation of a validated food frequency questionnaire for self-defined vegans in the United States.
This study aimed to develop and validate a de novo food frequency questionnaire for self-defined vegans in the United States. Diet histories from pilot samples of vegans and a modified 'Block Method' using seven selected nutrients of concern in vegan diet patterns, were employed to generate the questionnaire food list. Food frequency responses of 100 vegans from 19 different U.S. states were obtained via completed mailed questionnaires and compared to multiple telephone-conducted diet recall interviews. Computerized diet analyses were performed. Correlation coefficients, t-tests, rank, cross-tabulations, and probability tests were used to validate and compare intake estimates and dietary reference intake (DRI) assessment trends between the two methods. A 369-item vegan-specific questionnaire was developed with 252 listed food frequency items. Calorie-adjusted correlation coefficients ranged from r = 0.374 to 0.600 (p < 0.001) for all analyzed nutrients except calcium. Estimates, ranks, trends and higher-level participant percentile placements for Vitamin B12 were similar with both methods. Questionnaire intakes were higher than recalls for most other nutrients. Both methods demonstrated similar trends in DRI adequacy assessment (e.g., significantly inadequate vitamin D intake among vegans). This vegan-specific questionnaire can be a useful assessment tool for health screening initiatives in U.S. vegan communities. PMID:25006856
Dyett, Patricia; Rajaram, Sujatha; Haddad, Ella H; Sabate, Joan
Evaluation of a Validated Food Frequency Questionnaire for Self-Defined Vegans in the United States
This study aimed to develop and validate a de novo food frequency questionnaire for self-defined vegans in the United States. Diet histories from pilot samples of vegans and a modified �Block Method� using seven selected nutrients of concern in vegan diet patterns, were employed to generate the questionnaire food list. Food frequency responses of 100 vegans from 19 different U.S. states were obtained via completed mailed questionnaires and compared to multiple telephone-conducted diet recall interviews. Computerized diet analyses were performed. Correlation coefficients, t-tests, rank, cross-tabulations, and probability tests were used to validate and compare intake estimates and dietary reference intake (DRI) assessment trends between the two methods. A 369-item vegan-specific questionnaire was developed with 252 listed food frequency items. Calorie-adjusted correlation coefficients ranged from r = 0.374 to 0.600 (p < 0.001) for all analyzed nutrients except calcium. Estimates, ranks, trends and higher-level participant percentile placements for Vitamin B12 were similar with both methods. Questionnaire intakes were higher than recalls for most other nutrients. Both methods demonstrated similar trends in DRI adequacy assessment (e.g., significantly inadequate vitamin D intake among vegans). This vegan-specific questionnaire can be a useful assessment tool for health screening initiatives in U.S. vegan communities. PMID:25006856
Dyett, Patricia; Rajaram, Sujatha; Haddad, Ella H.; Sabate, Joan
Do response options influence self-reports of alcohol use?
The influence of response options on self-reported frequency of alcohol use was evaluated in an experimental study of 350 students at a west coast university. Respondents were asked about their frequency of alcohol use in the last 7 days, 30 days, 90 days, and 180 days with three methodological factors randomized: 1) how quantitative the response options were; 2) order of presentation of close-ended response options; and 3) relative placement of alcohol use items in the questionnaire. Results indicate that the quantitativeness of response options and the location of items within the questionnaire have minimal effects on the average frequency of alcohol use and number of inconsistent responses over a wide range of time frames. However, presenting higher frequency response options prior to lower frequency response options increased self-reported frequency of having consumed 2 or more drinks in the last 30 days and frequency of alcohol use over the last 180 days. PMID:7890448
Hays, R D; Bell, R M; Damush, T; Hill, L; DiMatteo, M R; Marshall, G N
Chronic cough � assessment of treatment efficacy based on two questionnaires
Introduction Efficacy of chronic cough treatment is ambiguous. The aim of the study was to analyze chronic cough alleviation after specific treatment and the relationship between cough etiology and treatment efficacy. Material and methods A stepwise diagnostic approach was used to diagnose cough etiology in non-smoking adults with chronic cough. In all patients specific treatment was applied. Two different questionnaires � a visual analog scale and a 5-degree scale � were used to assess cough severity before and after 4-6 months of treatment. Results A significant correlation between pre-treatment and post-treatment results of both questionnaires was found (Spearman coefficient 0.43, p = 0.0003 and 0.73, p < 0.0001, respectively). Baseline questionnaire analysis revealed no differences in cough severity between patients with different cough causes or multiple cough causes. Although specific treatment resulted in a significant decrease of cough severity in the entire group, only partial improvement was noted. According to the visual analogue scale, a decrease of cough severity by at least 50% was achieved only in 54.4% of patients (37/68). Similarly, satisfactory improvement was noted in only 54.4% (37/68) of patients when using the 5-point scale. There were three sub-groups of patients, in whom no relevant decrease of cough severity was observed despite treatment: patients with 1. three coexisting cough causes, 2. non-asthmatic eosinophilic bronchitis, and 3. chronic idiopathic cough. Conclusions Cough severity does not depend on its etiology. Efficacy of chronic cough treatment in non-smoking patients is only moderate. PMID:25395948
Grabczak, El?bieta M.; Arcimowicz, Magdalena; Domeracka-Ko?odziej, Anna; Domaga?a-Kulawik, Joanna; Krenke, Rafa?; Maskey-Warz?chowska, Marta; Tarchalska-Kry?ska, Bo?ena; Krasnod?bska, Paulina; Chazan, Ryszarda
Does one result trump all others? A response to Magurran, Irving and Henderson
Magurran, Irving and Henderson (1997) have reported that a population of European minnows, Phoxinus phoxinus, did not show an obvious behavioural fright reaction when they were presented with conspecific skin extract in a wild situation. Fish from the same population show a strong response when tested in aquaria. From these data the authors conclude that the fright reaction may be contingent on such factors as assessed risk and hunger. From this reasonable hypothesis they progress to the assertion that the Schreckstoff of ostariophysan fishes should not be considered an alarm pheromone. Much of their paper is devoted to arguments supporting their hypothesis that Schreckstoff cannot operate as an alarm pheromone. I argue that it is appropriate and adaptive to respond to alarm signals in a contingent manner, and attempt to answer the various arguments regarding the validity of terming Schreckstoff an alarm pheromone.
Smith, R. J. F.
Harmonic Response of the Organ of Corti: Results for Wave Dispersion
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Inner ear is a remarkable multiphysical system and its modelling is a great challenge. The approach used in this paper aims to reproduce physic with a realistic description of the radial cross section of the cochlea. A 2D-section of the organ of Corti is fully described. Wavenumbers and corresponding modes of propagation are calculated taking into account passive structural responses. The study is extended to six cross sections of the organ of Corti and a large frequency bandwidth from 100 Hz to 3 kHz. Dispersion curves reveal the influence of fluid structure interactions with a dispersive behavior at high frequencies. Longitudinal mechanical coupling provides new interacting modes of propagation.
Foucaud, Simon; Michon, Guilhem; Morlier, Joseph; Gourinat, Yves
Attitudes on Staff Participation and the Acceptance of Women and Minorities at Delta College: Results of a Staff Opinion Survey Made in Response to an Accreditation Report Recommendation. Research Report.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
In response to an accreditation team's concern over the status of affirmative action, the campus atmosphere toward women and ethnic minorities, and involvement of staff in decision-making at San Joaquin Delta College (SJDC), in California, the college conducted a survey of staff attitudes. A questionnaire was distributed to all 942 full- and�
Debow-Makino, Ginger; And Others
Stab injury and device implantation within the brain results in inversely multiphasic neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative responses
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
An estimated 25 million people in the US alone rely on implanted medical devices, �2.5 million implanted within the nervous system. Even though many devices perform adequately for years, the host response to medical devices often severely limits tissue integration and long-term performance. This host response is believed to be particularly limiting in the case of intracortical microelectrodes, where it has been shown that glial cell encapsulation and localized neuronal cell loss accompany intracortical microelectrode implantation. Since neuronal ensembles must be within �50 �m of the electrode to obtain neuronal spikes and local field potentials, developing a better understanding of the molecular and cellular environment at the device-tissue interface has been the subject of significant research. Unfortunately, immunohistochemical studies of scar maturation in correlation to device function have been inconclusive. Therefore, here we present a detailed quantitative study of the cellular events and the stability of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) following intracortical microelectrode implantation and cortical stab injury in a chronic survival model. We found two distinctly inverse multiphasic profiles for neuronal survival in device-implanted tissue compared to stab-injured animals. For chronically implanted animals, we observed a biphasic paradigm between blood-derived/trauma-induced and CNS-derived inflammatory markers driving neurodegeneration at the interface. In contrast, stab injured animals demonstrated a CNS-mediated neurodegenerative environment. Collectively these data provide valuable insight to the possibility of multiple roles of chronic neuroinflammatory events on BBB disruption and localized neurodegeneration, while also suggesting the importance to consider multiphasic neuroinflammatory kinetics in the design of therapeutic strategies for stabilizing neural interfaces.
Potter, Kelsey A.; Buck, Amy C.; Self, Wade K.; Capadona, Jeffrey R.
Fewer doses of HPV vaccine result in immune response similar to three-dose regimen
NCI scientists report that two doses of a human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, trademarked as Cervarix, resulted in similar serum antibody levels against two of the most carcinogenic types of HPV (16 and 18), compared to a standard three dose regimen. The results appeared in the November 2013 issue of Cancer Prevention Research.
STAR results on medium properties and response of the medium to energetic partons
We report new STAR results on the consequences of highly energetic partons propagating through the medium formed in heavy ion collisions using correlations as an experimental probe. The recent results providing insights about color factor effects and path length dependence of parton energy loss, system size dependence of di-hadron fragmentation functions, conical emission and ridge formation in heavy ion collisions are presented.
Bedangadas Mohanty; for the STAR Collaboration
PHA-Stimulated Immune-Responsiveness in Mercury-Dosed Zebra Finches Does Not Match Results from Environmentally Exposed Songbirds.
Dietary mercury exposure is associated with suppressed immune responsiveness in birds. This study examined the immune-responsiveness of domestic zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata) experimentally exposed to mercury through their diet. We used the phytohemagglutinin (PHA) skin-swelling test to assay the effect of two modes of mercury exposure. Some finches received exposure to mercury only after reaching sexual maturity, while others were maintained on a mercury-dosed diet throughout life, including development. Each bird received one of five dietary concentrations of methylmercury cysteine (0.0, 0.3, 0.6, 1.2 or 2.4�ppm). In contrast to a study on wild songbirds at a mercury-contaminated site, we detected no relationship between mercury level and immunological response to PHA, regardless of mode of exposure. This result represents the first major difference found by our laboratory between wild birds exposed to environmental mercury and captive birds experimentally exposed to mercury. PMID:25638440
Caudill, Mitchell T; Spear, Eliza L; Varian-Ramos, Claire W; Cristol, Daniel A
Reliability of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire in Japanese Preschool Children Aged 4�6 Years
Background The Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) has been widely used as a brief behavioral screening. The aim of this study was to examine the internal consistency and test-retest reliability of the 3- to 4-year-old version of the SDQ (SDQ 3�4) in Japanese preschool children. Methods The SDQ 3�4 was administered to 754 parents who had 4- to 6-year-old children attending kindergartens or childcare centers in Wako City, Japan, at 2 different times (Time 1 and Time 2) over a 2-week interval between June and July 2012. Cronbach�s ? and correlation coefficients were used to examine internal consistency and test-retest reliability, respectively. Results Of 393 parents who returned their responses at Time 1 (response rate 52.1%), 383 were used for analysis after excluding 10 responses with missing data. Their children�s mean age was 4.7 (standard deviation 0.7) years. The internal consistency (Cronbach�s ?) was good for the total difficulties score (0.74) and the prosocial behavior scale (0.70). However, it was slightly worse for the emotional symptoms, conduct problems, and hyperactivity scales (0.61�0.66) and poor for the peer problems scale (0.45). Of the 383 included respondents at Time 1, 211 parents returned their responses at Time 2 (response rate: 55.1%). Test-retest reliability (correlation coefficients) was good (0.73�0.82), except for the peer problems scale (0.58). Conclusions The results support the reliability of the SDQ 3�4 being satisfactory for the total difficulties score and prosocial behavior scale and being acceptable for the emotional symptoms, conduct problems, and hyperactivity scales in Japanese preschool children aged 4�6 years. PMID:25373462
Doi, Yuriko; Ishihara, Kaneyoshi; Uchiyama, Makoto
Reliability of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire in Japanese Preschool Children Aged 4-6 Years.
Background: The Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) has been widely used as a brief behavioral screening. The aim of this study was to examine the internal consistency and test-retest reliability of the 3- to 4-year-old version of the SDQ (SDQ 3-4) in Japanese preschool children.Methods: The SDQ 3-4 was administered to 754 parents who had 4- to 6-year-old children attending kindergartens or childcare centers in Wako City, Japan, at 2 different times (Time 1 and Time 2) over a 2-week interval between June and July 2012. Cronbach's ? and correlation coefficients were used to examine internal consistency and test-retest reliability, respectively.Results: Of 393 parents who returned their responses at Time 1 (response rate 52.1%), 383 were used for analysis after excluding 10 responses with missing data. Their children's mean age was 4.7 (standard deviation 0.7) years. The internal consistency (Cronbach's ?) was good for the total difficulties score (0.74) and the prosocial behavior scale (0.70). However, it was slightly worse for the emotional symptoms, conduct problems, and hyperactivity scales (0.61-0.66) and poor for the peer problems scale (0.45). Of the 383 included respondents at Time 1, 211 parents returned their responses at Time 2 (response rate: 55.1%). Test-retest reliability (correlation coefficients) was good (0.73-0.82), except for the peer problems scale (0.58).Conclusions: The results support the reliability of the SDQ 3-4 being satisfactory for the total difficulties score and prosocial behavior scale and being acceptable for the emotional symptoms, conduct problems, and hyperactivity scales in Japanese preschool children aged 4-6 years. PMID:25152192
Doi, Yuriko; Ishihara, Kaneyoshi; Uchiyama, Makoto
The Descriptive Questionnaire data set contains demographic information about each of the households and indicates the primary respondent within each residence. The information is from 380 descriptive questionnaires for 80 households across 6 cycles. The data set contains only ...
The Technician Walk-through Questionnaire data set updates information about each household from the Descriptive Questionnaire and includes relevant information regarding dwelling arrangements, as well as interior and exterior residential characteristics. The information is from...
The Descriptive Questionnaire data set provides demographic information about each of the households and indicates the primary respondent within each residence. The information is from 1225 Descriptive Questionnaires for 1225 households. The database contains only a portion of ...
Development of an Everyday Spatial Behavioral Questionnaire.
The authors developed a 12-category, 116-item critical incident questionnaire of spatial behavior. The authors administered the Everyday Spatial Behavioral Questionnaire (ESBQ) to volunteer undergraduates (114 women, and 31 men) and tests of spatial ability to establish both the reliability and construct validity of the instrument. The authors found that Cronbach's alpha across the subscale scores was .92, and that 8 of the 12 subscales had alphas of .70 or greater. The authors found validity of the ESBQ through canonical correlation analysis. Specifically, spatial tests, gender, and age variables, jointly with the ESBQ subscales, identified 2 apparent continua of spatial skills. The authors labeled the first continuum movement through space (from moving a vehicle at one end of the continuum, to moving one's own body through space at the other end of the continuum). The authors labeled the second identified continuum drawing/perceiving perspective/path finding, and it appeared to represent a continuum of 3-dimensional visualization or redirection. Another suggested label was dimensional discernment. Thus, the ESBQ is a first step toward identifying new ways to think about and quantify people's spatial experience. PMID:17824404
Eliot, John; Czarnolewski, Mark Y
Psychometric validation of the Dysexecutive Questionnaire (DEX).
This study reported on the validation of the psychometric properties, the factorability, validity, and sensitivity of the Dysexecutive Questionnaire (DEX) in 3 clinical and nonclinical samples. A mixed sample of 997 participants-community (n = 663), psychiatric (depressed [n = 92] and anxious [n = 122]), and neurologically impaired (n = 120)-completed self-report questionnaires assessing executive dysfunction, depression, anxiety, stress, general self-efficacy, and satisfaction with life. Before analyses the data were randomly split into 2 subsets (A and B). Exploratory factor analysis performed on Subset A produced a 3-factor model (Factor 1: Inhibition, Factor 2: Volition, and Factor 3: Social Regulation) in which 15 of the original 20 items provided a revised factor structure that was superior to all other structures. A series of confirmatory factor analyses performed on Subset B confirmed that this revised factor structure was valid and reliable. The revised structure, labeled the DEX-R, was found to be a reliable and valid tool for assessing behavioral symptoms of dysexecutive functioning in mixed community, psychiatric, and neurological samples. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2015 APA, all rights reserved). PMID:25602692
Shaw, Simone; Oei, Tian P S; Sawang, Sukanlaya
Systematic Review of the Use of Online Questionnaires among the Geriatric Population
Background/Objectives The use of internet-based questionnaires to collect information from older adults is not well established. This systematic literature review of studies using online questionnaires in older adult populations aims to 1. describe methodologic approaches to population targeting and sampling and 2. summarize limitations of Internet-based questionnaires in geriatric populations. Design, Setting, Participants We identified English language articles using search terms for geriatric, age 65 and over, Internet survey, online survey, Internet questionnaire, and online questionnaire in PubMed and EBSCO host between 1984 and July 2012. Inclusion criteria were: study population mean age ?65 years old and use of an online questionnaire for research. Review of 336 abstracts yielded 14 articles for full review by 2 investigators; 11 articles met inclusion criteria. Measurements Articles were extracted for study design and setting, patient characteristics, recruitment strategy, country, and study limitations. Results Eleven (11) articles were published after 2001. Studies had populations with a mean age of 65 to 78 years, included descriptive and analytical designs, and were conducted in the United States, Australia, and Japan. Recruiting methods varied widely from paper fliers and personal emails to use of consumer marketing panels. Investigator-reported study limitations included the use of small convenience samples and limited generalizability. Conclusion Online questionnaires are a feasible method of surveying older adults in some geographic regions and for some subsets of older adults, but limited Internet access constrains recruiting methods and often limits study generalizability. PMID:24635138
Remillard, Meegan L.; Mazor, Kathleen M.; Cutrona, Sarah L.; Gurwitz, Jerry H.; Tjia, Jennifer
Dysfunctional Cognitions in Personality Pathology: The Structure and Validity of the Personality Belief Questionnaire
Background This study examines the structure of the Personality Belief Questionnaire (PBQ), a self-report instrument designed to assess dysfunctional beliefs associated with personality pathology, as proposed by the cognitive theory of personality dysfunction. Methods The PBQ was examined using exploratory factor analysis with responses from 438 depressed outpatients, and confirmatory factor analysis with responses from 683 treatment-seeking psychiatric outpatients. All participants were assessed for personality disorder using a standard clinical interview. The validity of the resulting factor structure was assessed in the combined sample (N=1121) by examining PBQ scores for patients with and without personality disorder diagnoses. Results Exploratory and confirmatory analyses converged to indicate that the PBQ is best described by 7 empirically identified factors: 6 assess dysfunctional beliefs associated with forms of personality pathology recognized in DSM-IV. Validity analyses revealed that those diagnosed with a personality disorder evidenced a higher average score on all factors, relative to those without these disorders. Subsets of patients diagnosed with specific DSM-IV personality disorders scored higher, on average, on the factor associated with their respective diagnosis, relative to all other factors. Conclusions The pattern of results has implications for the conceptualization of personality pathology. To our knowledge, no formal diagnostic or assessment system has yet systematically incorporated the role of dysfunctional beliefs into its description of personality pathology. The identification of dysfunctional beliefs may not only aid in case conceptualization, but may provide unique targets for psychological treatment. Recommendations for future personality pathology assessment systems are provided. PMID:21910933
Fournier, Jay C.; DeRubeis, Robert J.; Beck, Aaron T.
The development and psychometric properties of the selective mutism questionnaire.
Research on selective mutism (SM) has been limited by the absence of standardized, psychometrically sound assessment measures. The purpose of our investigation was to present two studies that examined the factor structure and initial reliability and validity of the Selective Mutism Questionnaire (SMQ), a 17-item parent report measure of failure to speak related to SM. Study 1 (N = 589) utilized an Internet sample of parents of children ages 3 to 11 to demonstrate that the SMQ has a theoretically and clinically meaningful factor structure accounting for a significant portion of variance in responses with good internal consistency. Study 2 (N = 66) supported the validity of the SMQ in that scores discriminated clinic-referred children with SM from children with other anxiety disorders. Scores on the SMQ were correlated with measures of several theoretically and clinically important dimensions. PMID:18470781
Bergman, R Lindsey; Keller, Melody L; Piacentini, John; Bergman, Andrea J
Factor Structure of the Children's Behavior Questionnaire in Children with Williams Syndrome
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
To examine the factor structure of temperament in 5-10-year-olds with Williams syndrome, an exploratory factor analysis was conducted on the responses of parents of 192 children on the children's behavior questionnaire. Four factors were identified. Two corresponded to factors reported for typically developing children: effortful control and�
Leyfer, Ovsanna; John, Angela E.; Woodruff-Borden, Janet; Mervis, Carolyn B.
How IRT Can Solve Problems of Ipsative Data in Forced-Choice Questionnaires
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
In multidimensional forced-choice (MFC) questionnaires, items measuring different attributes are presented in blocks, and participants have to rank order the items within each block (fully or partially). Such comparative formats can reduce the impact of numerous response biases often affecting single-stimulus items (aka rating or Likert scales).�
Brown, Anna; Maydeu-Olivares, Alberto
Cognitive Interviewing: A Qualitative Tool for Improving Questionnaires in Sport Science
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Cognitive models postulate that respondents to a questionnaire follow a four-stage process when answering a question: comprehension, memory retrieval, decision, and response. Cognitive interviewing is a qualitative tool to gain insight into this process by means of letting respondents think aloud or asking them specific questions (Willis, 2005).�
Dietrich, Hanno; Ehrlenspiel, Felix
This data set includes responses for 249 participants with a total of 428 time-activity diaries. Some participants were studied for more than one monitoring period. The Time Diary and Activity Questionnaire was used for collecting data on detailed (daily) time and location inform...
Adaptation and Analysis of Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire in the Chinese Setting
This article reports the adaptation and analysis of Pintrich's Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire (MSLQ) in Hong Kong. First, this study examined the psychometric qualities of the existing Chinese version of MSLQ (MSLQ-CV). Based on this examination, this study developed a revised Chinese version of MSLQ (MSLQ-RCV) for junior secondary students in Hong Kong. Confirmatory factor analysis and Graded Response
John Chi-kin Lee; Hongbiao Yin; Zhonghua Zhang
Mind Your Words: Positive and Negative Items Create Method Effects on the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Mindfulness, a construct that entails moment-to-moment effort to be aware of present experiences and positive attitudinal features, has become integrated into the sciences. The Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ), one popular measure of mindfulness, exhibits different responses to positively and negatively worded items in nonmeditating�
Van Dam, Nicholas T.; Hobkirk, Andrea L.; Danoff-Burg, Sharon; Earleywine, Mitch
Development and Validation of the Calling and Vocation Questionnaire (CVQ) and Brief Calling Scale (BCS)
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Research on work as a calling is limited by measurement concerns. In response, the authors introduce the multidimensional Calling and Vocation Questionnaire (CVQ) and the Brief Calling scale (BCS), instruments assessing presence of, and search for, a calling. Study 1 describes CVQ development using exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis�
Dik, Bryan J.; Eldridge, Brandy M.; Steger, Michael F.; Duffy, Ryan D.
The Development of a Questionnaire on Metacognition for Students in Higher Education
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Background: Interest in the role of metacognition has been steadily rising in most forms of education. This study focuses on the construction of a questionnaire for measuring metacognitive knowledge, metacognitive regulation and metacognitive responsiveness among students in higher education and the subsequent process of testing to determine its�
Meijer, Joost; Sleegers, Peter; Elshout-Mohr, Marianne; van Daalen-Kapteijns, Maartje; Meeus, Wil; Tempelaar, Dirk
Summary of Contracted Student Time Questionnaire Returns from Students at University Hill Secondary School. Appendix A.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
The questionnaire concerning contracted student time used at University Hill Secondary School and a summary of responses to it are presented. Contracted Student Time is defined as the scheduling of student time in addition to allotted class time to enable the student to complete the requirements of a course. Numbers and percentages responding to�
Gilbert, Katherine J.
Computerised paediatric asthma quality of life questionnaires in routine care
Background: Asthma quality of life questionnaires are not readily incorporated into clinical care. We therefore computerised the Paediatric Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (standardised) (PAQLQ(S)) and the Paediatric Asthma Caregivers Quality of Life Questionnaire (PACQLQ), with a colour-coded printed graphical report.Objectives: To (a) assess the feasibility of the electronic questionnaires in clinical care and (b) compare the child�s PAQLQ scores
H Mussaffi; R Omer; D Prais; M Mei-Zahav; T Weiss-Kasirer; Z Botzer; H Blau
Fewer doses of HPV vaccine result in immune response similar to three-dose regimen
NCI scientists report that two doses of a human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, trademarked as Cervarix, resulted in similar serum antibody levels against two of the most carcinogenic types of HPV (16 and 18), compared to a standard three dose regimen.
Las Vegas Basin Seismic Response Project: Preliminary Results From Seismic Refraction Experiments, Las Vegas, NV.
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
In May and September 2002, seismic refraction data were acquired in the Las Vegas basin. Located in the southern Basin and Range province, the cities of Las Vegas, North Las Vegas, and Henderson sit atop a fault-bounded basin with a depth of up to 5 km and basin dimensions of roughly 60 km wide (east-west) by 50 km in length (north-south). Previous isostatic gravity, seismic reflection, and aeromagnetic studies indicate that a series of sub-basins exist beneath the unconsolidated basin fill, with the deepest sub-basin occurring 5 km west of the fault block bounding the eastern edge of the basin (Frenchman Mountain). The basin is significantly deeper along its northern extremity, following the path of the fault block bounding the northern edge of the basin (Las Vegas Valley Shear Zone), and along the western edge of Frenchman Mountain. Recent, paleoseismic studies have indicated that faults in the Las Vegas region have the potential for an earthquake of M6.5 to 7.0. It is estimated that a M6.9 earthquake in the basin could produce about 11 billion dollars in damage and a significant number of deaths and/or injuries. In addition, an equivalent or larger event in the Death Valley fault zone, 150 km distance, would also be devastating to the metropolitan area of approximately 1.5 million residents. Therefore, it is essential to understand the seismic hazard posed to the Las Vegas region. This project is part of a larger collaborative effort to characterize the basin and its response to ground shaking. The University of Nevada, Las Vegas with assistance from the University of Texas at El Paso, students from UNLV and UTEP, volunteers from the community and several students from Centennial High school deployed 432 portable seismic recorders ("Texans") throughout the valley. Shot point locations were located at three quarries in the valley, one to the north, one to the east and one to the southwest. The profiles cross the Las Vegas Valley Shear zone as well as a prominent NW/SE trending step in the basin floor across which the basement drops from 2 to 4 km in depth. In addition, the profiles cross several Quaternary fault scarps, which have recently been identified as tectonic in origin. Preliminary analyses of the seismic refraction data indicate that the basin has an average P-wave velocity of 4.5 km/s and is in agreement with the estimated basin depths from isostatic gravity studies (2 to 5 km depth). Both tomographic inversion and forward modeling techniques are being used to analyze these data. These data will be used to produce a velocity model of the basin and image the basin/bedrock contact. In addition, these data will be integrated into a community model, which is being produced by the Las Vegas Basin Seismic Response working group to further assess the site response of the basin.
Zaragoza, S. A.; Snelson, C. M.; Harder, S. H.; Kaip, G.; Luke, B.; Buck, B. J.; Hanson, A. D.
Geriatrics in medical students� curricula: questionnaire-based analysis
Background Demographic development is accompanied by an increasingly aging society. Concerning medical education, the treatment of older people as well as the scientific research and exploration of ageing aspects in the coming years need to be considered. Aim of the study was to ascertain medical students� knowledge, interest, and attitudes regarding older patients and geriatric medicine. Methods Each participant completed a self-designed questionnaire. This questionnaire was based on three validated internationally recognised questionnaires (�Facts on Aging Quiz � FAQ�, �Expectations Regarding Aging � ERA� and the �Aging Semantic Differential � ASD�). The inquiry and survey were performed at the beginning of the summer term in 2012 at the University of Regensburg Medical School. Results A total of n?=?184/253 (72.7%) students participated in this survey. The results of the FAQ 25+ showed that respondents were able to answer an average of M?=?20.4 of 36 questions (56.7%) correctly (Median, Md?=?21; SD �6.1). The personal attitudes and expectations of ageing averaged M?=?41.2 points on the Likert-scale that ranged from 0 to 100 (Md?=?40.4; SD �13.7). Respondents� attitudes towards the elderly (ASD 24) averaged M?=?3.5 points on the Likert-scale (range 1�7, Md 3.6, SD �0.8). Conclusions In our investigation, medical students� knowledge of ageing was comparable to previous surveys. Attitudes and expectations of ageing were more positive compared to previous studies. Overall, medical students expect markedly high cognitive capacities towards older people that can actively prevent cognitive impairment. However, medical students� personal interest in medicine of ageing and older people seems to be rather slight. PMID:25062568
Use of systemic networks in the development of a questionnaire
The paper discusses the use of systemic networks as a basis for the construction of a questionnaire. The subject of the questionnaire was teachers' views of the philosophy of science. It is argued that systemic networks have potential value in questionnaire construction in such problematic areas, offering help in dealing with both construct and face validity.The networks used, and the
Vasilios Koulaidis; Jon Ogborn
Management of cancer pain in Denmark: a nationwide questionnaire survey
A questionnaire survey was carried out with the aim of evaluating knowledge about and practice of cancer pain treatment in Denmark. A questionnaire was sent out to a 10% random sample of Danish physicians. Of these 1411 physicians, 1068 (76%) returned the questionnaires and after exclusion of those doctors who never treated cancer patients, 577 (54%) were analyzed. Their knowledge
Per Sj�gren; Anne-Marie Banning; Niels-Henrik Jensen; Maiken Jensen; Marianne Klee; Anneli Vainio
The Baseline Questionnaire data set provides information about each household and its primary respondent. The information is from 380 baseline questionnaires for 80 households across 6 cycles. The Baseline Questionnaire was administered to the primary respondent during a face-t...
The Follow-up questionnaire data set contains information concerning the activities within the household during the sampling week. The information is from 402 follow-up questionnaires for 80 households across 6 cycles. The Follow-up Questionnaire specifically addressed the time ...
Social Presence Questionnaire of Online Collaborative Learning: Development and Validity
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
This study articulates the construct of social presence and develops a social presence questionnaire for examining online collaborative learning with tests for reliability and validity. Questionnaire items were developed by revising the social presence questionnaire developed by Picciano in 2002 as well as eviewing research in the literature of�
Lin, Guan-Yu
Immunosuppressive factor blockade in dendritic cells via siRNAs results in objective clinical responses.
Over the past decade, immunotherapy has emerged as a promising new form of cancer treatment with the potential to eradicate tumor metastasis. However, its curative potential is in general limited by the existence of negative feedback mechanisms that control dendritic cells (DCs) and T-cell activation. For clinically effective immunity, there is a need of inhibiting the expression of these immune suppressors. This could enhance the activation of DCs, T cells, and natural killer cells, and might be beneficial for cancer immunotherapy. Among the immune inhibitory molecules expressed by DCs is indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), an enzyme that conveys immunosuppressive effects by degrading tryptophan, an essential amino acid required for T-cell proliferation and survival. Depletion of tryptophan by IDO-positive DCs induces T-cell apoptosis and the conversion of na�ve CD4+ T cells into regulatory T cells that further suppress antitumor immunity. Herein, we describe a protocol for in vitro synthesis of small interfering RNA against IDO and other immunosuppressive factors such as interleukin-10 and programmed cell death-1 ligands in order to reverse immune suppression mediated by DCs. Vaccination with IDO-silenced DC vaccines enhanced immune responses and antitumor immunity in cancer patients. PMID:25319657
Sioud, Mouldy; Mobergslien, Anne; S�b�e-Larssen, Stein
Overexpression of the Rabies Virus Glycoprotein Results in Enhancement of Apoptosis and Antiviral Immune Response
A recombinant rabies virus (RV) carrying two identical glycoprotein (G) genes (SPBNGA-GA) was constructed and used to determine the effect of RV G overexpression on cell viability and immunity. Immunoprecipitation analysis and flow cytometry showed that tissue culture cells infected with SPBNGA-GA produced, on average, twice as much RV G as cells infected with RV carrying only a single RV G gene (SPBNGA). The overexpression of RV G in SPBNGA-GA-infected NA cells was paralleled by a significant increase in caspase 3 activity followed by a marked decrease in mitochondrial respiration, neither of which was observed in SPBNGA-infected cells. Furthermore, fluorescence staining and confocal microscopy revealed an increased extent of apoptosis and markedly reduced neurofilament and F actin in SPBNGA-GA-infected primary neuron cultures compared with neuronal cells infected with SPBNGA, supporting the concept that RV G or motifs of the RV G gene trigger the apoptosis cascade. Mice immunized with SPBNGA-GA showed substantially higher antibody titers against the RV G and against the nucleoprotein than SPBNGA-immunized mice, suggesting that the speed or extent of apoptosis directly determines the magnitude of the antibody response. PMID:11884563
Faber, Milosz; Pulmanausahakul, Rojjanaporn; Hodawadekar, Suchita S.; Spitsin, Sergei; McGettigan, James P.; Schnell, Matthias J.; Dietzschold, Bernhard
Validation of the McCoy Female Sexuality Questionnaire in an Italian Sample
This article presents the result of a study that translated into Italian and validated the McCoy Female Sexuality Questionnaire\\u000a (MFSQ) on an Italian sample. The questionnaire was first administered to a sample of 240 Italian women (age range, 18�65 years)\\u000a recruited from a gynecology clinic. A principal component analysis identified 2 factors: sexuality (9 items) and partnership (5 items). Both
Alessandra H. Rellini; Rossella E. Nappi; Patrizia Vaccaro; Francesca Ferdeghini; Ileana Abbiati; Cindy M. Meston
Prosthesis evaluation questionnaire for persons with lower limb amputations: Assessing prosthesis-related quality of life
Objective: To develop a self-report questionnaire for persons with lower limb amputations who use a prosthesis. The resulting scales were intended to be suitable to evaluate the prosthesis and life with the prosthesis. The conceptual framework was health-related quality of life.Design: Multiple steps of scale development, terminating with test-retest of the Prosthesis Evaluation Questionnaire (PEQ) by mail.Source of Sample: Records
Marcia W. Legro; Gayle D. Reiber; Douglas G. Smith; Michael del Aguila; Jerrie Larsen; David Boone
Distributing questionnaires about smoking to patients: impact on general practitioners' recording of smoking advice
Background Little is known about the impact of questionnaire-based data collection methods on the consulting behaviour of general practitioners (family physicians) who participate in research. Here data collected during a research project which involved questionnaires on smoking being distributed to patients before and after appointments with general practitioners (GPs) is analyzed to investigate the impact of this data collection method on doctors' documenting of smoking advice in medical records. Methods Researchers distributed questionnaires on smoking behaviour to 6775 patients who attended consultations during surgery sessions with 32 GPs based in Leicestershire, UK. We obtained the medical records for patients who had attended these surgery sessions and also for a comparator group, during which no researcher had been present. We compared the documenting of advice against smoking in patient's medical records for consultations within GPs' surgery sessions where questionnaires had been distributed with those which occurred when no questionnaires had been given out. Results We obtained records for 77.9% (5276/6775) of all adult patients who attended GPs' surgery sessions, with 51.9% (2739) being from sessions during which researchers distributed questionnaires. Discussion of smoking was recorded in 8.0% (220/2739) of medical records when questionnaires were distributed versus 4.6% (116/2537) where these were not. After controlling for relevant potential confounders including patients' age, gender, the odds ratio for recording of information in the presence of questionnaire distribution (versus none) was 1.78 (95% CI, 1.36 to 2.34). Conclusion Distributing questionnaires about smoking to patients before and after they consult with doctors significantly increases GPs' recording of discussions about smoking medical records. This has implications for the design of some types of research into addictive behaviours and further research into how data collection methods may affect patients' and doctors' behaviours is warranted. PMID:17892574
Coleman, Tim; Wilson, Andrew; Barrett, Steve; Wynne, Alison; Lewis, Sarah
Late radiation responses in man: Current evaluation from results from Hiroshima and Nagasaki
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Among the late effects of exposure to the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, none looms larger than radiation related malignancies. Indeed, the late effects of A-bomb radiation on mortality appear to be limited to an increase in malignant tumors. At present, it can be shown that cancers of the breast, colon, esophagus, lungs, stomach, thyroid, and urinary tract as well as leukemia and multiple myeloma increase in frequency with an increase in exposure. No significant relationship to radiation can as yet be established for malignant lymphoma, nor cancers of the rectum, pancreas or uterus. Radiation induced malignancies other than leukemia seem to develop proportionally to the natural cancer rate for the attained age. For specific age-at-death intervals, both relative and absolute risks tend to be higher for those of younger age at the time of bombing. Other late effects include radiation-related lenticular opacities, disturbances of growth among those survivors still growing at the time of exposure, and mental retardation and small head sizes among the in utero exposed. Chromosomal abnormalities too are more frequently encountered in the peripheral leucocytes of survivors, and this increase is functionally related to their exposure. Some uncertainty continues to surround both the quantity and quality of the radiation released by these two nuclear devices, particularly the Hiroshima bomb. A recent reassessment suggests that the gamma radiation estimates which have been used in the past may be too low at some distances and the neutron radiation estimates too high at all distances; moreover, the energies of the neutrons released now appear ``softer'' than previously conjectured. These uncertainties not sufficiently large, however, to compromise the reality of the increased frequency of malignancy, but make estimates of the dose response, particularly in terms of gamma and neutron exposures, tentative.
Schull, William J.
Oxygen and hydrogen ion abundance in the near-Earth magnetosphere: Statistical results on the response
Oxygen and hydrogen ion abundance in the near-Earth magnetosphere: Statistical results plays a crucial role for the fundamental plasma properties in the terrestrial magnetosphere. We investigate the oxygen-to-hydrogen ratio in the near-Earth magnetosphere from �?10 RE
Bergen, Universitetet i
Global and Regional Climate Responses Solar Radiation Management: Results from a climateprediction.net Geoengineering Experiment
To date modeling studies suggest that, while significant hydrological anomalies could result from the artificial addition of reflecting aerosols in the stratosphere for the purpose of solar radiation management (SRM), even at the regional level such a geoengineered world would bear a much closer resemblance to a low CO2 world, than to an unmodified high CO2 world. These previous modeling
Katharine Ricke; Myles Allen; William Ingram; David Keith; M. Granger Morgan
Current Laparoscopic Practice Patterns in Urology: Results of a Survey among Urologists in Germany and Switzerland
Objectives: A survey was performed to assess the current practice patterns in laparoscopy among urologists in Germany and Switzerland.Methods: Using the database directory of the German and Swiss Urological Association urological departments were identified. A detailed questionnaire was designed and sent by postal service. Responding questionnaires were analyzed.Results: The overall response rate was 64%. Fifty-four percent of respondents in Germany
Thomas A V�geli; Martin Burchardt; Paolo Fornara; Jens Rassweiler; Tullio Sulser
Behavioral response to hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and refueling: Results of California drive clinics
Over the last several decades, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) have emerged as a zero tailpipe-emission alternative to the battery electric vehicle (EV). To address questions about consumer reaction to FCVs, this report presents the results of a �ride-and-drive� clinic series (N=182) held in 2007 with a Mercedes-Benz A-Class �F-Cell� hydrogen FCV. The clinic evaluated participant reactions to driving and
Elliot Martin; Susan A. Shaheen; Timothy E. Lipman; Jeffrey R. Lidicker
Financial constraints and firms' investment: results of a natural experiment measuring firm response to power interruption
of infrastructure is constrained by the ?scal adjustment programs, and decentralization resulting in mismatches between resources and needs. O� cial development assistance (ODA), traditionally the second largest source of infrastructure ?nancing, started to decline... ), and Rajan and Zingales (1998), and Beck, Levine and Loayaza (2000). 4 constraints based on information problems (adverse selection and moral hazard).10 Other theoretical models explore ?nancial constraints in the context of ?enforcement?problems (e...
Steinbuks, J
Response of permafrost to projected climate change: Results from global offline model simulations with JSBACH
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Permafrost or perennially frozen ground is an important part of the terrestrial cryosphere; roughly one quarter of Earth's land surface is underlain by permafrost. As it is a thermal phenomenon, its characteristics are highly dependent on climatic factors. The impact of the currently observed warming, which is projected to persist during the coming decades due to anthropogenic CO2 input, certainly has effects for the vast permafrost areas of the high northern latitudes. The quantification of these effects, however, is scientifically still an open question. This is partly due to the complexity of the system, where several feedbacks are interacting between land and atmosphere, sometimes counterbalancing each other. Moreover, until recently, many global circulation models (GCMs) lacked the sufficient representation of permafrost physics in their land surface schemes. In order to assess the response of permafrost to projected climate change for the 21st century, the land surface scheme of the Max-Planck-Institute for Meteorology, JSBACH, has recently been equipped with the important physical processes for permafrost studies, and was driven globally with bias corrected climate data, thereby spanning a period from 1850 until 2100. The applied land surface scheme JSBACH now considers the effects of freezing and thawing of soil water for both energy and water cycles, thermal properties depending on soil water and ice contents, and soil moisture movement being influenced by the presence of soil ice. To address the uncertainty range arising through different greenhouse gas concentrations as well as through different climate realisations when using various climate models, combinations of two Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs) and two GCMs were used as driving data. In order to focus only on the climatic impact on permafrost, effects due to feedbacks between climate and permafrost (namely via carbon fluxes between land and atmosphere) are excluded in the experiments. Differences between future time slices and today's climate are analysed. The effect in relevant variables, such as permafrost extent, depth of the Active Layer, ground temperature, and amount of soil carbon, is investigated. The experiments (as well as the development of JSBACH with respect to permafrost soil physics) are part of the European project PAGE21, where a focus is set on interactions between the changing climate and its impact on permafrost, especially for the 21st century.
Blome, Tanja; Ekici, Altug; Beer, Christian; Hagemann, Stefan
Test Anxiety Questionnaire Think you might have test anxiety? Take this test anxiety questionnaire to see if you do!
to increase my confidence on the second test. T F 15. After taking a test, I always feel I have done better To score questionnaire: Total the number of points. 12 or more points indicate a tendency to have testTest Anxiety Questionnaire Think you might have test anxiety? Take this test anxiety questionnaire
Westfall, Peter H.
Validation of the Mayo Sleep Questionnaire to Screen for REM Sleep Behavior Disorder in a Community-Based Sample
Objective: To validate a questionnaire focused on REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD) in a community-based sample. Background: RBD is a parasomnia manifested by recurrent dream enactment behavior during REM sleep. While confirmation of RBD requires the presence of REM sleep without atonia on polysomnography (PSG), a screening measure for RBD validated in older adults would be desirable for clinical and research purposes. Methods: We had previously developed the Mayo Sleep Questionnaire (MSQ) to screen for the presence of RBD and other sleep disorders. We assessed the validity of the MSQ by comparing the responses of subjects' bed partners with the findings on PSG. All subjects recruited from 10/04 to 12/08 in the Mayo Clinic Study of Aging�a population-based study of aging in Olmsted County, Minnesota�who had also undergone a previous PSG were the focus of this analysis. Results: The study sample included 128 subjects (104 male; median age 77 years [range 67-90]), with the following clinical diagnoses at baseline assessment: normal (n = 95), mild cognitive impairment (n = 30), and mild Alzheimer disease (n = 3). Nine (5%) subjects had RBD based on history and PSG evidence of REM sleep without atonia. The core question on recurrent dream enactment behavior yielded sensitivity (SN) of 100% and specificity (SP) of 95% for the diagnosis of RBD. The profile of responses on four additional subquestions on RBD improved specificity. Conclusions: These data suggest that the MSQ has adequate SN and SP for the diagnosis of RBD among elderly subjects in a community-based sample. Citation: Boeve BF; Molano JR; Ferman TJ; Lin Siong-Chi; Bieniek K; Tippmann-Peikert M; Boot B; St. Louis EK; Knopman DS; Petersen RC; Silber MH. Validation of the Mayo Sleep Questionnaire to screen for REM sleep behavior disorder in a community-based sample. J Clin Sleep Med 2013;9(5):475-480. PMID:23674939
Boeve, Bradley F.; Molano, Jennifer R.; Ferman, Tanis J.; Lin, Siong-Chi; Bieniek, Kevin; Tippmann-Peikert, Maja; Boot, Brendon; St. Louis, Erik K.; Knopman, David S.; Petersen, Ronald C.; Silber, Michael H.
Validation of Italian version of Brace Questionnaire (BrQ)
Background Brace questionnaire (BrQ) is a tool used to evaluate Health Quality of Life (HRQoL) in patients with Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) that undergo bracing treatment. The BrQ has not been translated and validated for Italian-speaking patients with AIS. The aim of the study was to perform a trans-cultural validation of BrQ to be used in an Italian speaking population. Methods Translation into Italian (I-BrQ) and back translation to the original Greek (G-BrQ) was performed. The final I-BrQ was then analyzed for Italian cultural characteristics and no inconsistencies were found. After that, construct validity was measured analyzing the I-BrQ relationship with 1) Scoliosis Research Society-22 patient Questionnaire (SRS-22), in order to evaluate the relationship with another patient-oriented questionnaire not focused on brace therapy; 2) Cobb degree scale, in order to evaluate the relationship with the magnitude of the curve. Reproducibility was also tested. Results Translation of the G-BrQ into Italian was successful and back-translation to Greek corresponded well with the original Greek version. Global I-BrQ correlated strongly with SRS-22 (r?=?0.826; p?0.001). Almost all sub scores from each I-BrQ domain strongly correlated with the single domain scores of SRS-22. Only two I-BrQ sub scores weakly inversely correlated with Cobb degree value. Reproducibility was good (Spearman-Brown coefficient value was 0.943; p?0.05). Conclusions Trans-cultural validation in Italian language showed the validity and reliability of the I-BrQ. PMID:23961781
Sleepwalking in Parkinson's disease: a questionnaire-based survey.
Sleepwalking (SW) corresponds to a complex sleep-associated behavior that includes locomotion, mental confusion, and amnesia. SW is present in about 10% of children and 2-3% of adults. In a retrospective series of 165 patients with Parkinson's disease (PD), we found adult-onset ("de novo") SW "de novo" in six (4%) of them. The aim of this study was to assess prospectively and systematically the frequency and characteristics of SW in PD patients. A questionnaire including items on sleep quality, sleep disorders, and specifically also SW and REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD), PD characteristics and severity, was sent to the members of the national PD patients organization in Switzerland. In the study, 36/417 patients (9%) reported SW, of which 22 (5%) had adult-onset SW. Patients with SW had significantly longer disease duration (p = 0.035), they reported more often hallucinations (p = 0.004) and nightmares (p = 0.003), and they had higher scores, suggestive for RBD in a validated questionnaire (p = 0.001). Patients with SW were also sleepier (trend to a higher Epworth Sleepiness Scale score, p = 0.055). Our data suggest that SW in PD patients is (1) more common than in the general population, and (2) is associated with RBD, nightmares, and hallucinations. Further studies including polysomnographic recordings are needed to confirm the results of this questionnaire-based analysis, to understand the relationship between SW and other nighttime wandering behaviors in PD, and to clarify the underlying mechanisms. PMID:21293874
Oberholzer, Michael; Poryazova, Rositsa; Bassetti, Claudio L
The development of indonesian online game addiction questionnaire.
Online game is an increasingly popular source of entertainment for all ages, with relatively prevalent negative consequences. Addiction is a problem that has received much attention. This research aims to develop a measure of online game addiction for Indonesian children and adolescents. The Indonesian Online Game Addiction Questionnaire draws from earlier theories and research on the internet and game addiction. Its construction is further enriched by including findings from qualitative interviews and field observation to ensure appropriate expression of the items. The measure consists of 7 items with a 5-point Likert Scale. It is validated by testing 1,477 Indonesian junior and senior high school students from several schools in Manado, Medan, Pontianak, and Yogyakarta. The validation evidence is shown by item-total correlation and criterion validity. The Indonesian Online Game Addiction Questionnaire has good item-total correlation (ranging from 0.29 to 0.55) and acceptable reliability (??=?0.73). It is also moderately correlated with the participant's longest time record to play online games (r?=?0.39; p<0.01), average days per week in playing online games (??=?0.43; p<0.01), average hours per days in playing online games (??=?0.41; p<0.01), and monthly expenditure for online games (??=?0.30; p<0.01). Furthermore, we created a clinical cut-off estimate by combining criteria and population norm. The clinical cut-off estimate showed that the score of 14 to 21 may indicate mild online game addiction, and the score of 22 and above may indicate online game addiction. Overall, the result shows that Indonesian Online Game Addiction Questionnaire has sufficient psychometric property for research use, as well as limited clinical application. PMID:23560113
Jap, Tjibeng; Tiatri, Sri; Jaya, Edo Sebastian; Suteja, Mekar Sari
The Development of Indonesian Online Game Addiction Questionnaire
Online game is an increasingly popular source of entertainment for all ages, with relatively prevalent negative consequences. Addiction is a problem that has received much attention. This research aims to develop a measure of online game addiction for Indonesian children and adolescents. The Indonesian Online Game Addiction Questionnaire draws from earlier theories and research on the internet and game addiction. Its construction is further enriched by including findings from qualitative interviews and field observation to ensure appropriate expression of the items. The measure consists of 7 items with a 5-point Likert Scale. It is validated by testing 1,477 Indonesian junior and senior high school students from several schools in Manado, Medan, Pontianak, and Yogyakarta. The validation evidence is shown by item-total correlation and criterion validity. The Indonesian Online Game Addiction Questionnaire has good item-total correlation (ranging from 0.29 to 0.55) and acceptable reliability (??=?0.73). It is also moderately correlated with the participant's longest time record to play online games (r?=?0.39; p<0.01), average days per week in playing online games (??=?0.43; p<0.01), average hours per days in playing online games (??=?0.41; p<0.01), and monthly expenditure for online games (??=?0.30; p<0.01). Furthermore, we created a clinical cut-off estimate by combining criteria and population norm. The clinical cut-off estimate showed that the score of 14 to 21 may indicate mild online game addiction, and the score of 22 and above may indicate online game addiction. Overall, the result shows that Indonesian Online Game Addiction Questionnaire has sufficient psychometric property for research use, as well as limited clinical application. PMID:23560113
Jap, Tjibeng; Tiatri, Sri; Jaya, Edo Sebastian; Suteja, Mekar Sari