Changes in management policies for extremely preterm births and neonatal outcomes from 2003 to 2012: two population-based studies in ten European regions.

Objective: To investigate changes in maternity and neonatal unit policies towards extremely preterm infants (EPTIs) between 2003 and 2012, and concurrent trends in their mortality and morbidity in ten European regions.

Design: Population-based cohort studies in 2003 (MOSAIC study) and 2011/2012 (EPICE study) and questionnaires from hospitals.

Setting: 70 hospitals in ten European regions.

High variability of individual longitudinal motor performance over five years in very preterm infants.

Aim: To determine longitudinal motor performance in very preterm (VPT) infants from 6 months to 5 years of age for the entire cohort of infants, according to gender and gestational age and at the individual level.

Method: Single-center, prospective longitudinal study of 201 VPT infants (106 boys) without severe impairments.

Outcomes: Motor performance was assessed with the Bayley Scales of Infant Development (BSID-II-MS: 6, 12, 24 months) and the Movement Assessment Battery for Children (MABC-2-NL: 5 years).

Changing Dutch approach and trends in short-term outcome of periviable preterms.

Background: In 2006, the Dutch guideline for active treatment of extremely preterm neonates advised to lower the gestational age threshold for active intervention from 26 0/7 to 25 0/7 weeks gestation.

Objective: To evaluate the association between the guideline modification and early neonatal outcome.

Design: National cohort study, using prospectively collected data from The Netherlands Perinatal Registry.

[The impact of a premature birth on the family; consequences are experienced even after 19 years].

Objective: A premature birth can cause parental stress, anxiety and uncertainty. This study illustrates the long-term consequences of a preterm birth for family life.

Design: Retrospective study by questionnaire.

Development of a movement quality measurement tool for children.

Background: Pediatric physical therapists assess the quantity and quality of children's motor skills. Several quantitative motor tests are currently available, but a concise measurement tool of observable movement quality (OMQ) is lacking.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to develop an OMQ measurement tool for children from the perspective of pediatric physical therapists.