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Abbreviations, glossary and references

Standard deviation A measure of the spread, scatter or variability of a set of
measurements. Usually used with the mean (average) to describe
numerical data.
Statistical power The ability of a study to demonstrate an association or causal
relationship between two variables, given that an association exists.
For example, 80% power in a clinical trial means that the study has a
80% chance of ending up with a P value of less than 5% in a
statistical test (i.e. a statistically significant treatment effect) if there
really was an important difference (e.g. 10% versus 5% mortality)
between treatments. If the statistical power of a study is low, the
study results will be questionable (the study might have been too
small to detect any differences). By convention, 80% is an acceptable
level of power. See also P value.
Sternum The breastbone. For the purposes of the guideline we are specifically
referring to the section of the skin and chest wall overlying the
breastbone.
Stools Term used for faeces or poo.
Structured interview A research technique where the interviewer controls the interview by
adhering strictly to a questionnaire or interview schedule with pre-set
questions.
Study checklist A list of questions addressing the key aspects of the research
methodology that must be in place if a study is to be accepted as
valid. A different checklist is required for each study type. These
checklists are used to ensure a degree of consistency in the way that
studies are evaluated.
Study population People who have been identified as the subjects of a study.
Study quality See Methodological quality.
Study type The kind of design used for a study. Randomised controlled trial,
case–control study, cohort study are all examples of study types.
Subject A person who takes part in an experiment or research study.
Survey A study in which information is systematically collected from people
(usually from a sample within a defined population).
Systematic Methodical, according to plan; not random.
Systematic error Refers to the various errors or biases inherent in a study. See also
Bias.
Systematic review A review in which evidence from scientific studies has been
identified, appraised and synthesised in a methodical way according
to predetermined criteria. May or may not include a meta-analysis.
Systemic Involving the whole body.
Tachycardia Rapid heart-rate.
Tachypnoea Rapid breathing.
Target population The people to whom guideline recommendations are intended to
apply. Recommendations may be less valid if applied to a population
with different characteristics from the participants in the research
study – e.g. in terms of age, disease state, social background.
Term 37 weeks or more of pregnancy. For the purposes of this guideline
babies of 27 weeks are considered differently to those of 38 weeks.
Tertiary centre A major medical centre providing complex treatments which receives
referrals from both primary and secondary care. Sometimes called a
tertiary referral centre. See also Primary care and Secondary care.
Thermo-neutral environment Surroundings of an ambient temperature which minimizes the baby’s
energy expenditure on keeping warm or cool
Transcutaneous Passing, entering, or made by penetration through the skin

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