NIHRDataInsights/HRCSData huggingface dataset:
Title: Opportunity-Led Research:Tracing the Longitudinal Belfast Youth and Development Study Cohort - A feasibility Study
Funder: Health and Social Care Research and Development Division (HSC R&D) of Public Health Agency, Northern Ireland

Abstract: The Belfast Youth Development Study covered the period 2001-2011 (ages 11/12 to 21) using 7 waves, and addressed a critical need for a long-term prospective cohort study investigating substance use behaviours. Ultimately we plan to build on the original BYDS project in two ways:1) An additional 8th sweep of data collection with the original BYDS cohort will be carried out in 2020 when the participants are aged 30 years to examine issues related to young adulthood. 2) Run a new comparative study (BYDS 2020) allowing for the examination of cohort effects. The programme of work undertaken during the original BYDS study (2001-2011) lays the foundations needed for these additional stands. For example, the resultant datasets will allow us to identify early risk factors for poor adult outcomes. In this feasibility study we propose completing the groundwork needed to strengthen two future applications to ESRC to complete these additional strands. Contact details are held on 4500 of the BYDS cohort members, and only around 2000 of these were contactable at the last sweep (age 21 years) via standard contact methods. In this feasibility study we propose using Tracesmart software (tracing database) in conjunction with standard methods to trace the 4500 cohort members. In previous research using such an approach 80% of original cohort members were traceable (Harding et al). The feasibility study will also incorporate a small research study involving 10% of the traced participants; this will be used to develop and fine tune our recruitment strategies and data collection methods, both of which will incorporate the latest digital technologies.


Research activity codes: 2.4 SURVEILLANCE AND DISTRIBUTION
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH
Title: 2014 Cochrane Fellowship Scheme: Dr Katrina Mclaughlin - Parenting programmes for improving the parenting skills and outcomes for incarcerated parents and their children
Funder: Health and Social Care Research and Development Division (HSC R&D) of Public Health Agency, Northern Ireland

Abstract: Over 200, 000 children in Northern Ireland and the UK experience parental imprisonment annually (Burry & Parish, 2012). Unfortunately, the consequences of parental incarceration are borne not only by parents but their children also. Parents who endure incarceration often experience stress, particularly related to being separated from their children - mothers who reported higher levels of parenting stress were more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety (Houck & Loper, 2002). For fathers, prison becomes a barrier to fatherhood and the consequential loss of control is perceived as, ‘stripping a man of his fathering identity’ (p 276, Arditti et al, 2006), resulting in feelings of powerlessness, lowered self esteem and feeling personally devalued (Purvis, 2011). Children of incarcerated parents are at increased risk for both internalising (e.g. depression, anxiety, withdrawal) and externalising (e.g. delinquency, substance abuse), behaviour problems and cognitive delays (Eddy & Poehlamann, 2010). Experiencing parental incarceration in childhood increases the likelihood that the individual themselves may be at risk of being incarcerated in adulthood (McCrudden et al, 2014). For these reasons, the past decade has witnessed a rise in the number of parenting programmes for incarcerated parents. This review will synthesis evidence from randomised trials of the impact of parenting programmes on parents and their children. Participants will be mothers and fathers who are serving a prison sentence and have children or dependents under the age of 18 years. Interventions will include any educational parenting programme with a core component of child development /behaviour and effective parenting skills. Comparisons will be no intervention or management/treatment as usual. Outcomes will include: parenting skills of parents (for e.g. knowledge of child development and behaviour), parental mental health, social function of parents (for e.g.self esteem) and child well being and development.


Research activity codes: 3.1 PRIMARY PREVENTION INTERVENTIONS TO MODIFY BEHAVIOURS OR PROMOTE WELL-BEING
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH
Title: 2015 Doctoral Fellowship: Is it possible to develop a non-pharmacological intervention to improve the outcome of critically ill patients with delirium?
Funder: Health and Social Care Research and Development Division (HSC R&D) of Public Health Agency, Northern Ireland

Abstract: Background: ICU patients are at high risk of developing delirium. We plan to develop a complex, therapeutic non-pharmacological intervention, which will be informed by a systematic review of the literature on non-pharmacological interventions for delirium in ICU. Aims: To conduct a systematic literature review which will amalgamate the evidence regarding the management of delirium in critically ill patients. To explore the findings of the systematic review with a panel of delirium experts and then a focus group consisting of nursing staff who care for critically ill patients as well as patients who have experienced delirium in ICU and their families. To develop and validate a non-pharmacological intervention. To test feasibility of the intervention in a pilot study. Benefits: Develop an intervention that is acceptable for staff to test in a randomised controlled trial. Show that the application of a standardised protocol of non-pharmacological interventions for delirium in ICU is feasible in an UK ICU environment.


Research activity codes: 7.3 MANAGEMENT AND DECISION MAKING;7.1 INDIVIDUAL CARE NEEDS
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH
Title: 2016 Doctoral Fellowship: The development and testing of a universal trans-disciplinary programme to enhance working memory which will target attention and language skills in 4-5 year old children: A clustered randomised feasibility trial
Funder: Health and Social Care Research and Development Division (HSC R&D) of Public Health Agency, Northern Ireland

Abstract: Background: Academic underachievement leads to restricted employment, poor mental health and dependency on the NHS, and has been found to be associated with poor working memory (WM), attention and language skills. These communication problems are more common in children from socially disadvantaged areas and have a greater significance in NI where there are higher rates of social deprivation and health problems. The ability to improve WM, attention and language skills is therefore vital to learning and better health. Education and health policies emphasise the need to address these barriers to learning through partnerships and early intervention in schools. Healthcare professionals working in schools address this issue through whole class (universal) programmes. However, there has been limited robust research into these programmes in schools and little is known about how young children (<7yrs) respond to such intervention. Aim: To develop and test a universal trans-disciplinary programme to enhance WM which will target attention and language skills in 4-5yr olds. Methods: A mixed methods, multi-phase design composed of 4 stages. This study is based upon phases 1 and 2 of the MRC guidance. Stage 1: A systematic review of the evidence base for school based programmes will be undertaken. Stage 2: Focus groups with health professionals and teachers to identify the components required in developing the programme will be conducted. Stage 3: Interactive workshops with health professionals and teachers, and group work with children, will be undertaken in order to develop the programme. Stage 4: A pilot clustered randomised feasibility trial will be undertaken to assess the feasibility of delivering the school based programme. Importance: This project ties in with the strategic focus of TYC (NI) by investigating how to give children the best start in life through the development and feasibility testing of a programme focused on prevention and tackling inequalities.


Research activity codes: 3.1 PRIMARY PREVENTION INTERVENTIONS TO MODIFY BEHAVIOURS OR PROMOTE WELL-BEING
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH
Title: Gender Dysphoria: prevalence, experiences and pathways for people with autism or autistic traits
Funder: Health and Social Care Research and Development Division (HSC R&D) of Public Health Agency, Northern Ireland

Abstract: The number of people referred to the Gender Identity Service in NI has increased exponentially in the last five years. However, a striking proportion of the referrals to gender identity services for young people appear to have Autism. The reasons for this remain unclear, presenting a gap in our knowledge and reducing our ability to offer more effective treatments. The need to better understand the needs and develop responsive, person-centred services for both Autism and gender dysphoria patients has been acknowledged by government, and by clinicians. However, this is a complex area, requiring improved clinical pathways, skills and knowledge, and flexible treatment options. Patients with these conditions, separately or in combination, experience considerable psychological and social difficulties and may not be able to access professional health care. Thus, there is a need to understand the social and psychological factors associated with this phenomenon, the referral pathways, decision-making processes and outcomes for individuals with gender dysphoria. There is relatively little Autism research activity in Northern Ireland and to our knowledge, no research that explores the issue of Autism/ Asperger`s syndrome and gender dysphoria. With the support of service user organisations and clinical services, I will examine the prevalence of Autism and gender dysphoria in a clinical population. I will also examine the pathways and outcomes for people referred to gender identity services in NI. I will examine the decision-making processes and experiences related to the referral pathway from a range of service user, family and clinical perspectives. The study’s findings will be of benefit to service users and families and will inform the development of person-centred gender identity services in NI and elsewhere.


Research activity codes: 8.1 ORGANISATION AND DELIVERY OF SERVICES;2.4 SURVEILLANCE AND DISTRIBUTION
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH
Title: 2016 GPARTS Dr Carl Brennan - Wrong-sided errors in healthcare; can precision training reduce left-right confusion?
Funder: Health and Social Care Research and Development Division (HSC R&D) of Public Health Agency, Northern Ireland

Abstract: Wrong-sided errors: can precision training reduce left-right confusion. Left-right discrimination. Left-right (LR) discrimination is a complex task and uses numerous cognitive functions. We develop this skill as a child and in adulthood this skill is assumed. Additionally, in medical training we are taught correct spatial orientation, for example, anterior from posterior, however left and right are assumed knowledge. Recent NHS England data regarding ‘Never Events’ report that wrong-sided errors occur, for example, removing the incorrect kidney and this is despite ‘systems’ already in place. Reviewing the literature has not revealed a ‘person-centred system’ to address this. Precision Training. In Applied Behaviour Analysis, they have used a teaching method called ‘precision teaching’ (PT) with individuals who have learning developmental needs. A specific method of PT with flashcards is called ‘say all fast minute each day shuffle’ (SAFMEDS). SAFMEDS has already been used in medical students to help them learn in dermatology and in intravenous fluids prescribing. Study. We aim to evaluate the impact of PT, via LR flashcards (SAFMEDS), on year 4 medical students’ LR discrimination ability. It is expected this study will as a: 1- Control intervention trial of LR SAFMEDS flashcards on medical students LR discrimination ability. In addition to the control intervention trial there will be: 1- Development of the LR SAFMEDS flashcards and feasibility testing of the flashcards. 2- Phenomenological analysis of medical students’ experiences of using the LR SAFMEDS flashcards. Recruitment. In the control intervention arm we purpose to recruit 100 medical students.


Research activity codes: 8.1 ORGANISATION AND DELIVERY OF SERVICES
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH
Title: Enabling Research Award: Developing E-health Services (DES): The feasibility and acceptability of group based video-conferencing for adults with depression
Funder: Health and Social Care Research and Development Division (HSC R&D) of Public Health Agency, Northern Ireland

Abstract: Currently nearly a fifth (19%) of all adults experience depression or anxiety (ONS, 2013). VC technology may provide an effective therapeutic mode for the prevention and treatment of depression and other mental health problem. Support delivered via VC may also reduce service delivery costs and facilitate earlier intervention into people’s lives, potentially reducing hospital visits and GP waiting times. However, research is sparse regarding group-based VC for depression and other mental health problems. Aim/Objectives: To test the effectiveness of conducting a peer led support group intervention for depression in adults using VC technology. 1.To investigate the effectiveness of VC based support in comparison to face-to-face support for reducing depression in adults. 2. To conduct a multi-site economic appraisal of the costs and outcomes of VC support for depression. Methods: An RCT with 1-year follow-up using a mixed methods evaluation framework and economic appraisal. Organisations offering group based support for depression in NI and other regions within the UK will offer VC based therapy for adults throughout a six month period. Intervention: Each online therapy programme will run for 8-weeks and include up to three concurrent groups running within individual organisations at any one time. Outcome measures will take place at baseline, 8 weeks and 1 year. The intervention group will be compared to a waiting list control group and a control group of ‘usual’ face-to-face services offered by the same organisation. Outcomes: Participants will be asked to complete evaluation measures at baseline, 8 weeks and 1 year. This will include validated instruments regarding depression, mental well-being, health-literacy and help-seeking. Informed by the MRC framework for process evaluation (Moore et al, 2015), observations of therapy sessions (fidelity) will take place as well as interviews with participants and group facilitators at 8 weeks and 1 year follow-up.


Research activity codes: 6.6 PSYCHOLOGICAL AND BEHAVIOURAL
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH
Title: Enabling Research Award: Adaptation of the 'Transition to Retirement' intervention: Improving the health and wellbeing of older people with intellectual disabilities through community participation
Funder: Health and Social Care Research and Development Division (HSC R&D) of Public Health Agency, Northern Ireland

Abstract: Background: People with ID are living longer although ageing usually commences earlier. Older persons services offer a range of retirement options for the non-disabled ageing population but not for people with ID. There are few robust evaluations of interventions to promote the health and wellbeing of older adults with ID: this proposal addresses this imbalance. Design: This will be a randomised feasibility trial: 36 adults with ID will be randomly assigned to the intervention or a waiting list control group. Two mentors will be matched to each adult with ID in the intervention group. Intervention: A Transition Worker (TW) will recruit and train retired non-ID adults (mentors). Two mentors will be matched to one adult with ID to actively participate in a community project for 12wks. The TW and the mentors will negotiate opportunities for the adults with ID to be fully included in community projects. Eighteen adults with ID and 36 mentors will be assigned to the intervention group. The control group will comprise 18 adults with ID & 36 mentors; they will act as a waiting list comparison group. Focus groups with the ID and non-ID participants will be conducted post intervention (process evaluation). Setting: Community based projects c/o Volunteer Now. Retired adults already engaged in a community project will act as mentors and will support older adults with ID to participate in a community project. Outcome measures: Health Related QoL, Loneliness, Wellbeing & social engagement. Who will provide funding: The NI HSC RDO has agreed to fund one TW for 1yr and the mentors travel. Two of the research team will provide the training and support to the TW at no charge. Impact: If this intervention increases health & wellbeing in older age of both groups it would have implications for addressing health and social inequalities. This study will determine the feasibility of testing the intervention in a definitive trial.


Research activity codes: 3.1 PRIMARY PREVENTION INTERVENTIONS TO MODIFY BEHAVIOURS OR PROMOTE WELL-BEING
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH
Title: Enabling Research Award: A feasibility study of the Attention Control Training (ACT) intervention amongst very preterm (VP) infants
Funder: Health and Social Care Research and Development Division (HSC R&D) of Public Health Agency, Northern Ireland

Abstract: Attaining the ability to control attention is a key developmental task in infancy(21,22): this ability is the basis for the development of learning and self-regulation abilities. Attention control development is delayed in preterm infants (<37 weeks of gestation) and this delay plays a key role in the onset of learning difficulties(6-8) and problem behaviour(9) of preterm infants. Attention problems are more pronounced(17,18) and persistent(11-14,23) amongst very preterm (VP) infants (<32 weeks gestation). The Attention Control Training (ACT) intervention specifically targets infants’ attention control abilities(15,16). Its novelty lies in engaging young infants, thus intervening at an age of greater neural plasticity, and in using computerised programs, which allow tailoring the intervention to infants’ abilities(19). VP infants may benefit from this intervention, which may improve their attention, cognitive and self-regulation abilities. Aim: to investigate the processes we plan to use in a full-scale Randomised Controlled Trial (RCT) of the ACT intervention. Objectives: to test (a) recruitment of eligible population; (b) intervention fidelity across centres; (c) different treatment “doses”; (d) intervention viability with VP infants of different age (e.g. 12 months from due date vs. 12 months from birth); (e) outcome measures characteristics and effect sizes. Methods: Participants will be VP infants without major health complications recruited in Northern Ireland and England. The intervention involves interactive presentation of visual stimuli, obtained via computer real-time tracking of infants’ gaze. Infants in the control group will familiarise with non-interactive video material in an equivalent number of trials and periods as the intervention group. The objective of the intervention is to improve infants’ ability to control attention. The outcomes of interest are different measures of attention, cognition, and behaviour self-regulation at follow up. Participants (stratified by age) will be allocated to the study arms randomly, and their allocation concealed to parents and staff collecting outcome measures.


Research activity codes: 6.6 PSYCHOLOGICAL AND BEHAVIOURAL
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH
Title: Dissecting the dynamics between frontotemporal language network and sensory cortices in perceiving, recognising, and using objects
Funder: Wellcome Trust

Abstract: My research addresses the neurobiological fundamentals of conceptual processing, with an ultimate goal to articulate a neurocognitive model encompassing the full gamut of semantic cognition, from sensory-motoric experiences, through simple concepts, to combinatorial schema. To this end, I leverage three types of methodologies: First, based on my extensive psychophysics training, I devise sophisticated paradigms accurately measuring cognitive properties. Second, I employ neurostimulation, used in combination with psychophysics, to establish causative relationship between cortical regions and cognitive functions. Third, I use neuroimaging, combined with connectivity analysis, to explore the topography of brain regions and their dynamics that buttresses conceptual processing. Convergent data from these approaches allow me to develop theoretical models regarding where in the brain concepts are represented, what the neuroanatomical factors constraining the representational structure of conceptual knowledge are, and how anatomically remote regions cooperate to represent conceptual content. These questions lead to three lines of specific inquiry:<br /><br /> How do the anterior temporal lobe and visual cortices work in tandem, as a hub-and-spoke structure, to represent objects and their associated semantic meaning?<br /><br /> How is the hub-and-spoke structure modulated by goal-directed signals from the prefrontal cortices?<br /><br /> How does the pattern of functional connectivity differ between different types of knowledge?


Research activity codes: 1.1 NORMAL BIOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT AND FUNCTIONING;1.2 PSYCHOLOGICAL AND SOCIOECONOMIC PROCESSES
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH
Title: Investigating MUltimorbidity ThroUgh cApacity building (MUTUAL)
Funder: Medical Research Council

Abstract: Multimorbidity is highly prevalent globally. In a recent systematic review, we showed that the prevalence of multimorbidity in the community is similar across High (HIC) and Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs), even though the evidence base in LMICs is still fragmented. Little is known about patterns, clusters and overall economic burden of multimorbidity in LMIC, and even less is known about multimorbidity including both physical and mental disorders (MPM). Evidence from HIC has shown that MPM leads to worse outcomes, increased direct and indirect social costs, lower quality of life and excess mortality, compared to concordant multimorbidity. We believe that MPM has been under researched for many reasons, including the lack of interdisciplinary researchers with appropriate analytical skills, especially in LMICs. With MUTUAL we will address some of these challenges by developing a platform for high-quality, LMIC-led research to investigate knowledge gaps in our understanding of multimorbidity associated with both mental and physical illnesses (MPM) in LMICs. This will be done by creating a capacity building programme taking place across three countries with different levels of economic development: Brazil, Ethiopia and Malaysia. Training will be delivered by tutors and mentors in 3 areas of need: a) advanced statistical methods and epidemiology; b) health economics; and c) evidence synthesis. This will be further enhanced by training in transferable skills (e.g. research dissemination, public speaking, leadership, impact, data security). All resources will be made available outside of the network so that other researchers interested in the training will be able to access it. Early career researchers across the three countries, with support of both UK and in-country tutors, will then work mutually to synthesise and generate new evidence on key evidence gaps, around patterns and burden of multimorbidity using techniques such as cluster and network analysis


Research activity codes: 2.5 RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODOLOGIES (AETIOLOGY);2.6 RESOURCES AND INFRASTRUCTURE (AETIOLOGY)
Health categories: MENTAL HEALTH