PURPOSE: The Nasality Severity Index 2.0 (NSI 2.0) forms a new, multiparametric approach in the assessment of hypernasality. To enable clinical implementation of this index, the short- and long-term test-retest reliability of this index was explored. METHODS: In 40 normal-speaking adults (mean age 32y, …

Background: COPD self-management is a complex behavior influenced by many factors. Despite scientific evidence that better disease outcomes can be achieved by enhancing self-management, many COPD patients do not respond to self-management interventions. To move toward more effective self-management interventions, …

OBJECTIVES: The main aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of Vocal Tract Discomfort (VTD) in the Flemish population without self-perceived voice disorders using the VTD scale and to examine the relationship between vocal load and VTD symptoms. In addition, consistency between the VTD scale …

BACKGROUND: Cervical dystonia (CD) is characterized by involuntary muscle contractions causing abnormal postures and/or twisting movements of the head and neck. These motor symptoms can have a major impact on disability. Treatment with botulinum toxin injections aims to reduce motor symptoms, and therefore …

This thesis provides a report on research aimed at enhancing treatment of patients with bipolar disorder. We describe various aspects of treatment of bipolar disorder. The central study reported in this thesis is an effect study of a multicomponent intervention, Collaborative Care. Chapter 1 describes …

Abstract Background. Fever in children is common and mostly caused by self-limiting infections. However, parents of febrile children often consult in general practice, in particular during out-of-hours care. To improve management, it is important to understand experiences of GPs managing these consultations. Objective. …

Restoration of walking capacity, as reflected by walking speed and walking distance, is a primary goal after stroke. Peak aerobic capacity (peak oxygen consumption [V̇O2peak]) is suggested to be correlated with walking capacity after stroke. Although the strength of this correlation is unclear, physical …

Objective: Due to the multidimensional nature of resonance disorders, multivariate diagnostic assessment is advisable. The nasality severity index (NSI) is based on this point of view. Because of the influence of personal and environmental variables on the current NSI, this study aims to refine this …

Background: No-rinse disposable wash gloves are increasingly implemented in health care to replace traditional soap and water bed baths without proper evaluation of (cost) effectiveness. Objectives: To compare bed baths for effects on skin integrity and resistance against bathing and costs. Design: Cluster …

Objectives: Participation is considerably restricted in children and adolescents with acquired brain injury (ABI) as compared to their healthy peers. This systematic review aims to identify which factors are associated with participation in children and adolescents with ABI. Methods: A systematic search …