University of Salford

About: University of Salford is a education organization based out in Salford, Manchester, United Kingdom. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Population & Context (language use). The organization has 13049 authors who have published 22957 publications receiving 537330 citations. The organization is also known as: University of Salford Manchester & The University of Salford Manchester.

Screening to identify people at risk of long-term incapacity: a conceptual and scientific review

Abstract: Objectives: This project aimed to review the concepts and utility of screening for the risk of long-term incapacity associated with the common, relatively minor, health complaints associated with receipt of social security benefits (predominantly musculoskeletal disorders, mental health problems, and cardio-respiratory symptoms). Methods: A systematic electronic literature search yielded existing reviews concerning clinical and psychosocial data. Alternative search strategies were required to obtain unindexed reports of large individual studies based on socio-demographic and administrative data. From some 1000 retrieved titles, 28 reviews and 31 individual studies met the selection criteria, and provided the material for a structured review. Results: The findings show there is strong evidence that both socio-demographic and clinical psychosocial data contain strong predictors for long-term incapacity, yet they do not combine into a simple, robust, and universal screening tool. Whilst screening is possible and potentially valuable, its utility is strongly dependent on timing and purpose. Socio-demographic data can be strong predictors at an early stage, but may be immutable. Psychosocial predictors are effective somewhat later, yet have the advantage of being suitable for guiding rehabilitation strategies. Conclusions: There is a practical window for screening for long-term incapacity that extends between about one and six months. Socio-demographic and clinical data are interrelated, and their utility may vary over time; both may be combined into a logical and practical sequence in the screening process.

Music interventions for people with dementia: a review of the literature

Abstract: This paper provides a qualitative review of 21 published articles of clinical empirical studies looking at the effects of a variety of music activities on the emotional and behavioural responses in people with dementia. General information is reviewed such as the setting and context of studies, research findings and explanatory variables. Methodological issues are also discussed, particularly in relation to observational methods, and theoretical frameworks such as the progressively lowered stress threshold model are evaluated. Music appears to have a range of applications in dementia care but previous reviews have highlighted methodological weaknesses of studies. Recommendations for future research include the use of continuous time sampling methodology and to record the duration of observed behaviours. This review paper also argues for the use of Kitwood's theory of personhood as a framework to inform and guide future research.

SPICE: Software Process Improvement and Capability Determination

Abstract: In June 1991, the International Standards group for Software Engineering approved a study period to investigate the need and requirements for a standard for software process management. A new international work item has been subsequently raised. The resulting project is named SPICE (Software Process Improvement and Capability Determination). The project aims to build on the best features of existing software assessment methods.