bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use Of Instagram As A Media For Information On Pptq Activities Khoirul Ummah Hidayatullah Pantoloan Using Instagram as an Information Media PPTQ Khoirul Ummah Hidayatullah Pantoloan
Authors: Muhammad Ibadullah Sholihun
Published: August 2024

Using Instagram as Information Media for PPTQ Activities Khoirul Ummah Hidayatullah Pantoloan. Communication Science Study Program, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Broadcasting Concentration, Tadulako University Under the Guidance of Stepanus Bo'do and Kudratullah. This research aims to find out how the administrators of the Tahfidzul Qur'an Khoirul Ummah Islamic Boarding School (PPTQ KHUMMAH) Hidayatullah Pantoloan use social media Instagram to disseminate information about the activities of PPTQ Khoirul Ummah students. This research uses a descriptive type of research with a qualitative approach, with data collection procedures using: observation, interviews, and documentation. The theory used is Uses and Gratification. The research results show that the use of Instagram media by Islamic boarding school administrators is very helpful in disseminating information about the activities of the PPTQ Khoirul Ummah Hidayatullah Pantoloan students, by utilizing the features on Instagram as a means of disseminating information about the students' activities. The photo title or caption is a feature that really helps administrators and makes it easier for the public to find out what activities are being carried out by PPTQ Khoirul Ummah students. Meanwhile, the Geotag feature is a feature that can make it easier for audiences/people who want to visit Islamic boarding schools by placing location markers on each post. The mentioned feature really helps administrators increase the number of visitors to Khoirul Ummah's PPTQ Instagram account by adding the aroba sign (@) in posts. The comments column feature is also very helpful for the PPTQ Khoirul Ummah administrators to find out how Instagram users respond when they see posts on the PPTQ Khoirul Ummah account. The following feature on Instagram makes it easier for administrators to follow other users' Instagram accounts so that the audience we follow will see Khoirul Ummahdi's photo, video, and PPTQ flyer posts on their home page. Instastory This feature is very helpful in sharing the latest information. Stories are more "now" so they have a time limit. This feature is very often used by administrators to inform student students and donors about student activities.
THE INFLUENCE OF ELECTRONIC WORD OF MOUTH (E-WOM) ON INTEREST IN VISITING TOURISM POSTS ON @SOALPALU ACCOUNTS FOR TADULAKO UNIVERSITY STUDENTS
Authors: Aditya Sumanegara  , Rizqy Alfiyaty  , Dwi Rohma Wulandari
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to determine the effect of intensity, valance of opinion, and content in E-WOM on student visiting interest in tourism posts on @soalpalu accounts. The sampling technique used quota sampling technique using the Slovin formula, a sample of 100 respondents was used. The analysis tool uses multiple linear regression, using the classical assumption, F, and t-test tests. Based on the results of the classical assumption test, the data is normally distributed, the F test shows that simultaneously the independent variable (x) affects the dependent variable, and the t-test shows that all variables (x) partially affect the interest in visiting (y). The results of this study are: 1) Intensity variable has a positive and significant effect on visiting interest in @soalpalu account tourism posts with a significance value of 0.00 <0.05. this shows that the intensity of @soalpalu is high among students so it has a positive influence on visiting interest. 2) The valance of the opinion variable has a positive and significant effect on visiting interest in @soalpalu account tourism posts with a significance value of 0.009 <0.05. This shows that positive opinions and good recommendations are obtained by students so that they have a positive effect on visiting interest. 3) The content variable has a positive and significant effect on visiting interest in @soalpalu account tourism posts with a significance value of 0.00 <0.05. This result shows that the content @soalpalu contains information that clearly describes the condition of interesting tourist objects, which affects students' interest in visiting. 4) simultaneously intensity, valance of opinion, and content in E-WOM affect the interest in visiting tourism posts on the @soalpalu account with a significance value of 0.000> 0.05.
Equivalence Analysis of Agricultural Commodity Factors In the Farmer's Exchange Tool Standard in Ramba Village, Wayu, Sidondo II, Sigi Regency
Authors: Muhtar Lutfi Lutfi , Jamaluddin  , Hatimah Husnul
Published: August 2024

This study aims to provide an overview of the use of agricultural commodities as a potential alternative medium of exchange for cash equivalents, as well as to study the area and environment in which a commodity can be selected as a medium of exchange.
This research method uses a descriptive approach, interviews, focus group discussions, also determines the respondents from productive farmers in the village.
The results of the study in 3 (three) target villages showed 1) several commodities; corn, coconut, candlenut, native chicken, can be an alternative medium of exchange other than cash. The effect of this choice is that these commodities have a fairly high level of production and distribution of ownership. 2) Cash reserves for productive farmers are not balanced with the amount of production of some of these commodities which tend to be higher when converted to local cash prices.
INTERPERSONAL COMMUNICATION OF HUSBAND-WIFE COUPLES IN OVERCOMING BABY BLUES SYNDROME POSTBIRTH MOTHER
Authors: Meybriana Maranu
Published: August 2024

Married couples facing the birth of their first child certainly have to adapt to various changes in roles and responsibilities. Especially with my wife's condition with baby blues syndrome. Through this research, researchers want to know how interpersonal communication between husband and wife is after the birth of their first child with baby blues syndrome. This research is a type of qualitative descriptive research. Informants in this research used interview and observation techniques. The research informants were 2 husband and wife couples who had just had their first child and their wives both experienced baby blues syndrome. The results of this research show that there have been changes in interpersonal communication between husbands and wives who experienced baby blues syndrome after giving birth to their first child. The nature of dishonesty and openness is a factor in the message not being conveyed well. After the birth of their first child, the husband and wife's interpersonal communication was ineffective because it was influenced by baby blues syndrome which caused physical fatigue, as well as emotional changes for the wife. After all, they were the ones who cared more about the baby. Various problems that arise choose to resolve the conflict with alternatives, disorientation, segmentation & integration
Student Character Development Through Scouting Activities at MTS Alkhairaat Pusat Palu
Authors: Zuzan T Bachmid  , Widayati Pujiastuti  , Imran
Published: August 2024

The purpose of the study was to determine and describe the ability of Scoutmaster teachers to foster student character through Scouting activities at MTs. Alkhairaat Pusat Palu. The subjects in this study were 8 people consisting of 6 seventh-grade students, namely 3 male students and 3 female students who participated in Scouting activities, 1 Scout coach teacher, and 1 Deputy Principal. The type of research conducted is based on descriptive qualitative methods, the techniques used to collect data are observation, interviews, and documentation. Based on the study results, show that Student Character Development through Scouting Activities at MTs. Alkhairaat Palu Center, namely: 1) Responsibility Character 2) Discipline 3) independence.
Structural positioning of nomination committees: Evidence from Iceland
Authors: Magnusdottir Hildur , Arnardottir Audur Arna , Sigurjonsson Throstur Olaf
Published: August 2024

Nomination committees (NCs) are the subject of ongoing scholarly and professional debates regarding their purpose, practices, and organizational structure. Existing research suggests that NCs can enhance corporate governance by improving the process through which directors are appointed (Al Absy & AlMahari, 2023; Grove et al., 2020). In Nordic corporate governance, these committees are integrated in various ways, either as shareholders committees or subcommittees of the board. Iceland, a Nordic country, serves as a critical case study for investigating perspectives among stakeholders on the structural positioning of NCs — whether they should operate as subcommittees of corporate boards or shareholders committees. This unique context of Iceland adds a layer of intrigue and curiosity to our research. Interviews were conducted with thirteen individuals comprising shareholders, board members of publicly listed companies, and nomination committee members. Additionally, surveys were distributed among shareholders, board members, and nomination committee members of Iceland’s 300 largest corporations in 2020 and then again in 2023. The findings suggest that NCs should be shareholders’ committees voted by the shareholders instead of board committees. Such an arrangement is proposed to optimize the benefits for shareholders and boards in forming and operating NCs.
Automanejo en la prevención de las lesiones de piel por presión en adultos hospitalizados en un servicio de urgencias
Authors: Rivera-Sepúlveda Paula Daniela , Herrera-Ardila María Fernanda , Quintero-Palencia María Camila , Hernández-Méndez Johan Esteban , Tovar-Ospino Daniela Isabel , Parra Dora Inés
Published: August 2024

Introducción. A nivel mundial, la incidencia de las lesiones de piel por presión o úlceras por presión (UPP) es de 5,4% por 10.000 pacientes y la prevalencia de 8,4%. Estas pueden aumentar el riesgo de morir cinco veces. El presente proyecto tuvo como objetivo generar comportamientos y conocimientos en las personas para el automanejo de esta afección.  Materiales y métodos. Se aplicó una intervención para el automanejo en la prevención de las lesiones de piel en adultos hospitalizados. Esta fue seleccionada a partir de una búsqueda sistemática de la literatura. Para medir el cambio antes y después de aplicada la intervención, se emplearon dos instrumentos, Nursing Outcomes Classification (NOC) “Control de riesgo” de 13 indicadores y el instrumento KPUP de actitudes hacia la prevención de UPP de 5 constructos en 13 ítems: competencia; prioridad; impacto; responsabilidad y eficiencia. Además, se midió la interacción estudiante-paciente con la escala Caring Nurse-Patient Interactions, de Jean Watson.  Resultados. El NOC: “Control del riesgo” antes y después de la intervención por cada sesión aplicada pasó de 1,5 (DE= ±0.8) a 3,1 (DE=± 0.1) en la sesión 1; en la sesión 2 fue de  2,2 (DE= ±1,0) a 3,7 (DE ±0,7); para la sesión 3 de 3,1 (DE ±1,7), a 4,6 (DE ±1,1) y finalmente para las sesiones 4 y 5 fue de 2,8 (DE ±1,0) a 4,4 (DE ±0,6). En cuanto a los resultados de las actitudes hacia la prevención de UPP según los constructos del KPUP, el constructo “Prioridad” fue el que obtuvo mayor cumplimiento en rol del cuidador, cuyos ítems oscilaron entre 95 al 100% lo que indica que los participantes perciben que es importante prevenir las UPP, mientras que el constructo “Competencia” fue el de menor cumplimiento, lo que quiere decir que ellos no se siente aún capaces de realizar sus propias actividades. En relación a la interacción estudiante-paciente, el ítem que más valoraron los participantes fue el dar tiempo para que se realicen preguntas ante inquietudes. Conclusiones. Se logró fomentar el automanejo y las actitudes de los participantes en la prevención de UPP, evidenciado en los resultados del NOC y de las actitudes. Además, la interacción enfermera-paciente fue reconocida.
Cuidado de Enfermería Basado en la Evidencia: un desafío en la práctica diaria
Authors: Yepes-Calderón Martha Cecilia
Published: August 2024

La atención de enfermería busca satisfacer las necesidades de pacientes, familias y comunidades a través de conocimientos, habilidades clínicas, pensamiento crítico y toma de decisiones basada en problemas reales, analizados a la luz de la mejor evidencia científica. Sin embargo, esto presenta desafíos en diversos contextos, para abordar este desafío, se requiere el esfuerzo conjunto de tres actores principales: los programas académicos de enfermería, las instituciones de salud y el profesional de enfermería.
Importancia de considerar la depresión para el automanejo de la diabetes
Authors: Medina Sánchez Grecia Seleny , Candila Celis Julia Alejandra , Yam Sosa Antonio Vicente
Published: August 2024

Introducción: existe evidencia sobre la asociación bidireccional entre la depresión y la diabetes. Las causas de la depresión en las personas con diabetes no se comprenden bien, sin embargo, los mecanismos que lo detonan incluyen factores biológicos, conductuales, sociales, psicológicos y ambientales e influyen directamente en el automanejo. Esto pone en evidencia la necesidad de que el profesional de salud colabore con la persona que vive con diabetes tipo 2 (DT2) con riesgo de desarrollar depresión, para que tenga acceso a un tratamiento adecuado y oportuno, a fin de mejorar y mantener el automanejo de su enfermedad.
Objetivo: reflexionar sobre la importancia de considerar la depresión en el automanejo de las personas que viven con DT2.
Conclusión: el automanejo es esencial para poder evitar las complicaciones de la diabetes, además, se ha comprobado que un automanejo optimo también reduce el riesgo de desarrollar trastornos de salud mental, ya que las personas logran manejar eficazmente a la enfermedad, buscando toda la ayuda posible y estableciendo mejoría en su tratamiento.
Regional Heterogeneity of the Results of Glucagon-Like Peptide 1 Receptor Agonist Trials in Type 2 Diabetes: A Reanalysis of Individual Participant Data
Authors: Jullien Ariane , Jambon-Barbara Clément , Cracowski Jean-Luc , Claggett Brian L. , Borel Anne-Laure , Khouri Charles , Roustit Matthieu
Published: August 2024

OBJECTIVE

Multiregional trials are designed under the assumption that treatment effect applies to the entire target population, yet several factors may introduce geographic heterogeneity in treatment effect. We explored whether such variations exist in trials assessing the efficacy of glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) in major cardiovascular events (MACE) in type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A systematic search of Medline and the Cochrane Library was conducted from inception until 30 June 2020. We included international randomized controlled trials comparing any GLP-1RA versus placebo, with MACE as a primary end point. Individual participant data were subsequently requested from the sponsor or through data sharing platforms. For each trial, we calculated hazard ratios (HRs) and their 95% CIs for MACE, subgrouped by region. We then performed a random-effects meta-analysis and conducted meta-regressions to assess the influence of predetermined variables of interest on treatment effect.

RESULTS

We included six trials including 45,426 patients. Baseline risk of MACE ranged from 2.9 per 100 patient-years in Southern Asia to 7.4 per 100 patient-years in Sub-Saharan Africa. HRs for MACE ranged between 0.25 (95% CI 0.05, 1.12) in Northern Africa to 0.98 (0.79, 1.22) in Western Europe. There was no significant subgroup difference across regions (P = 0.70). Baseline risk of MACE and indexes of development status (i.e., Human Development Index, gross domestic product) were independently associated with GLP-1RA efficacy.

CONCLUSIONS

This study does not suggest any regional heterogeneity of GLP-1RA efficacy in MACE. However, a higher baseline risk and lower development status were associated with a greater benefit of these drugs.
Regional heterogeneity of the results of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists trials in type 2 diabetes: a reanalysis of individual participant data
Authors: Jullien Ariane , Jambon-Barbara Clément , Cracowski Jean-Luc , L. Claggett Brian , Borel Anne-Laure , Khouri Charles , Roustit Matthieu
Published: August 2024

Objective. Multiregional trials are designed under the assumption that treatment effect applies to the entire target population. Yet, several factors may introduce geographic heterogeneity in treatment effect. We explored whether such variations exist in trials assessing the efficacy of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1Ra) on major cardiovascular events (MACE) in type 2 diabetes.

Research Design and Methods. A systematic search was conducted on MEDLINE® and the Cochrane database, until June 30th 2020. We included international, randomized controlled trials comparing any GLP-1Ra versus placebo with MACE as a primary endpoint. Individual participant data (IPD) were subsequently requested to the sponsor or through data sharing platforms. For each trial, we calculated hazard ratios (HR) and their 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) for MACE, sub-grouped by region. We then performed a random effects meta-analysis, and conducted meta-regressions to assess the influence of predetermined variables of interest on treatment effect.

Results. We included 6 trials including 45,426 patients. Baseline risk of MACE ranged from 2.9 in Southern Asia to 7.4 per 100 patient.years in Sub-Saharan Africa. HR (95% CI) for MACE ranged between 0.25 (0.05 to 1.12) in Northern Africa to 0.98 (0.79 to 1.22) in Western Europe. There was no significant subgroup difference across regions (p=0.70). Baseline risk of MACE and indexes of the development status were independently associated with GLP-1Ra efficacy.

Conclusions. This study does not suggest any regional heterogeneity of GLP-1Ra efficacy on MACE. However, a higher baseline risk and lower development status were associated with a greater benefit of these drugs.
Continuous monitoring of detrusor pressure in patients with a reflex urinary bladder after spinal cord injury
Authors: Thyberg M , Gedda S , Johansen PB , Lassvik C , Spångberg A , Engberg A.
Published: August 2024

In spinal cord injury, the detrusor pressure, as a parameter of urinary bladder dysfunction, is related to incontinence and renal complications. In order to determine the intraindividual variation of maximum pressure and duration of detrusor contractions, in patients with a spinal reflex bladder, the detrusor pressure was registered during 24 hours of physiological filling in 16 patients. Between the bladder contractions the detrusor pressure was low in all patients, indicating high bladder complicance. During contractions the maximum detrusor pressure and its duration varied both inter- and intraindividually. In individual patients, however, mean values during the initial 12 hours correlated with mean values during the final 12 hours. Thus, mean values of a series of contractions appear to be characteristic of each patient and useful in describing the voiding pressure in spinal reflex bladder.
Biofeedback treatment of genu-recurvatum using an electrogoniometric device with an acoustic signal. One-year follow-up
Authors: Basaglia N , Mazzini N , Boldrini P , Bacciglieri P , Contenti E , Ferraresi G.
Published: August 2024

The aim was to evaluate the effect of a biofeedback electrogoniometer in the control of recurvation of the knee while walking in patients with neurological diseases. Eighteen patients were trained daily for 12.8 sessions on average with an electrogoniometer attached to the knee, which gave a signal at a threshold value of 180 degrees in order to avoid hypertension of the knee. The improvement was statistically significant even after one year.
Cardiac rehabilitation: evaluation of a long-term programme of physical training for out-patients
Authors: Perk J , Hedbäck B , Jutterdal S.
Published: August 2024

A community-based long-term cardiac rehabilitation programme (LTP) has been designed for patients who had completed a two-year hospital-based physical training programme after myocardial infarction (MI) and wished to continue with community-based group training sessions. Since the start of LTP 20% of all patients in a consecutive MI population less than 65 yrs have participated. The programme operates on a low-cost base. Its feasibility is supported by a high attendance rate and by the absence of adverse effects during more than 2,000 patient training hours. In order to evaluate LTP 20 participating MI patients were compared with 20 matched control patients, who had completed the hospital-based training, but did not participate in LTP. The main reason for participation was the need for continued group support and social contact (15/20). Reasons for not participating were preference to exercise at home (10/20), long distance (6/20) and working hours (4/20). When compared with the data of the hospital-based programme one year post MI, both groups showed 4 years (average) post MI a slight but significant increase of systolic blood pressure of 12 vs. 18 mmHg. Work performance levels had been maintained (132 vs. 136 W). No patients had started smoking and there were no differences between the groups as to leisure time activities. It is concluded that a long-term training programme can be provided safely and at low cost for those MI patients who need continued support in order to maintain the effectiveness of the hospital-based cardiac rehabilitation.
Depressed mood and intra-hemispheric location of lesion in right hemisphere stroke patients
Authors: Finset A , Goffeng L , Landrø NI , Haakonsen M.
Published: August 2024

42 stroke patients with verified right hemisphere lesions were studied. Depressed mood was measured by means of a global rating scale, and an inventory administered as a structured interview. As measured by the global ratings and one of the inventory subscales, patients with deep, retrorolandic lesions showed significantly more depressed mood than other patients. The findings are discussed in the light of current relevant research, and implications for management of depressed mood in stroke patients are suggested.
Standing balance in healthy subjects. Evaluation of a quantitative test battery on a force platform
Authors: Ekdahl C , Jarnlo GB , Andersson SI.
Published: August 2024

A quantitative battery of tests for standing balance is needed in the assessment of functional impairments. The aims of the present study were to obtain stabilometric reference values for healthy females and males, 20-64 years of age, on a stable computerized force platform (AMTI) and to relate the balance data thus obtained to some traditional functional balance tests. Altogether, 152 subjects performed a series of tests. The test battery on the force platform comprised tests of standing with feet close together or on one leg while looking straight ahead or while blindfolded. Traditional functional balance tests were checked and various background data were collected through a questionnaire. Results of a separate test-retest reliability study of the test battery given on the force platform appeared promising, especially for the tests with eyes open. In the main study, results obtained on the force platform correlated significantly (p less than 0.001) with results of most of the functional tests. Women showed higher standing balance as compared with men. The results suggest the importance of relating the test-data not only to age but also to sex.
Fluid translocation measurement. A method to study pneumatic compression treatment of postmastectomy lymphoedema
Authors: Mridha M , Odman S.
Published: August 2024

Tissue fluid translocation under the action of deformation was measured to study the pneumatic compression treatment of postmastectomy lymphoedema of the arm. Analysis of the results provides statistically significant parameters for characterization of the oedema. Mobility of the fluid in pitting oedematous tissue was significantly greater than that of normal tissue and decreased after pneumatic compression treatment. Oedematous fluid at the distal sites of the arm showed a greater mobility than that of the proximal sites. Improvement in the oedema due to pneumatic compression treatment was found to be greater at the distal sites than at the proximal sites. In addition, oedema recurred between the treatments and repeated treatments produced the best results. Measurement of fluid translocation is useful in selecting and evaluating the effectiveness of lymphoedema treatment, as well as in determining the viscoelastic properties of the oedematous tissues.
Pulmonary function and symptom-limited exercise stress testing in subjects with late sequelae of poliomyelitis
Authors: Stanghelle JK , Festvåg L , Aksnes AK.
Published: August 2024

Sixty-eight subjects, consecutively admitted to our rehabilitation hospital with a presumptive postpolio syndrome, were examined by pulmonary function and symptom-limited exercise stress testing. The purpose of this investigation was to study how many of these subjects could be classified as suffering from cardiorespiratory deconditioning. The subjects had moderately reduced lung function of restrictive type, and none of the subjects had forced expiratory volume for one second (FEV1) below 30% of predicted value, indicating that hypoventilation would probably not occur. A pronounced reduction in maximal oxygen uptake (max VO2) was seen, especially in women. The maximal heart rate (max HR) values were above 70% of predicted values in all but one subject, indicating that the subjects might benefit from endurance training. Fifteen subjects had a suspected pulmonary limitation due to the exercise, with the ratio ventilation/maximal voluntary ventilation (V/MVV) above 70%. However, max HR in these subjects did not differ from that in the subjects with the ratio V/MVV below 70%. Thirteen other subjects had a ratio V/MVV < 70% but did not achieve respiratory quotient (R) > 1.0 and/or capillary lactate concentration > 4 mmol/l during exercise, indicating that muscular factors limited the exercise. These results indicate that cardiorespiratory deconditioning was considerable in most of our subjects with postpolio syndrome.
A three-year follow-up of 195 reported occupational over-exertion injuries
Authors: Kemmlert K , Orelius-Dallner M , Kilbom A , Gamberale F.
Published: August 2024

Three years after reporting occupational over-exertion injuries, 181 persons took part in a follow-up study by questionnaire. The objective was to study these persons with respect to their current status of health, well-being and functional capacity and when possible compare collected data to reference data from the "normal population". The studied group reported more physical and psychological symptoms than the reference groups. More than 50% reported difficulties in activities of daily living. Long sick-leaves in the year following the reported injury were associated with remaining pain and low rate of employment. Three years after the injury, 109 persons were in employment. Almost one third of these had changed occupations and now had more varied tasks than at the time of the report. Those whose work loads had been reduced after the injury, did not report less musculoskeletal disorders than others. However, access to social support was positively related with health and psychological well-being.
Improvement in gait one year after surgery for knee osteoarthrosis: a comparison between high tibial osteotomy and prosthetic replacement in a prospective randomized study
Authors: Weidenhielm L , Olsson E , Broström LA , Börjesson-Hederström M , Mattsson E.
Published: August 2024

The aim of this study was to analyse gait improvement one year after high tibial osteotomy and unicompartmental knee arthroplasty in patients with strictly unilateral osteoarthrosis of the medial compartment of the knee. Thirty-six patients, 18 men and 18 women, received a unicompartmental Brigham knee prosthesis and 23 patients, 10 men and 13 women, were operated on with a high tibial osteotomy. Clinical and radiographical assessments were supplemented by a functional test, measurements of thigh muscle torque with a Cybex II dynamometer and analysis on a force plate walkway with electrogoniometers. All patients were assessed prior to, and one year after surgery. Both groups showed overall clinical improvement, as assessed by the British Orthopaedic Association (BOA) score. Pain during walking decreased. The range of knee flexion remained unchanged. The ability to ascend and descend steps improved. The isokinetic thigh muscle torque remained unchanged. In the prosthetic group free walking speed increased from 1.03 to 1.09 m/s (p < 0.001). Step frequency and step length increased (p < 0.001). Single stance phase ratio increased from 0.96 to 0.99 (p < 0.01), indicating a more symmetrical gait. Double stance phase (% gait cycle) of both legs decreased (p < 0.001), indicating a faster transfer of weight during walking. In the osteotomy group, free walking speed did not increase. Step length of the uninvolved leg increased (p < 0.01). Double stance phase of the involved leg decreased (p < 0.001) and double stance phase of the uninvolved leg decreased (p < 0.01). Both groups improved after surgery and there was no difference between the groups.
Semi-quantitative SPECT scanning in acute ischaemic stroke
Authors: Friedman PJ , Davis G , Allen B.
Published: August 2024

We performed semi-quantitative SPECT scans using 99mTcm-HMPAO on 34 elderly subjects 10-15 days after ischaemic stroke. Each cerebral hemisphere was divided into five regions of interest. Asymmetry scores were determined for ten slices in each region using activity ratios to the other hemisphere and to the ipsilateral cerebellum. Outcome was assessed by maximal Barthel ADL score during the first two months after stroke. Asymmetry scores in the hemisphere involved by the stroke event were much higher than those in the opposite hemisphere. Subjects with poor outcome (maximal Barthel 0-12) had significantly higher asymmetry scores than those with good outcome (Barthel 13-20). The total asymmetry score (both hemispheres) and the score of the involved hemisphere predicted Barthel ADL score in a general linear model. Total asymmetry score remained a significant predictor of maximal Barthel score in multivariate models. Thus semi-quantitative SPECT scanning is of value in predicting functional recovery after stroke.
Isometric muscle strength and muscular endurance in normal persons aged between 17 and 70 years
Authors: Bäckman E , Johansson V , Häger B , Sjöblom P , Henriksson KG.
Published: August 2024

Isometric muscle strength was measured in 63 women and 65 men, randomly selected, aged 17-70 years, using Penny & Giles' hand-held dynamometer. Eight muscle groups as well as the hand grip strength were tested bilaterally. The muscular endurance was measured as time to exhaustion in the abductors of the shoulder and the flexors of the hip. Reference values for muscle strength and muscular endurance are given in the age groups 17-18, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59 and 60-70 years of age. The mean strength of females was about 65-70% of that of the men, but when the results were related to weight, the differences almost disappeared. Both men and women seem to have the greatest muscle strength at the age of about 17-18. The strength is rather constant up to the age of about 40 years, after which a discrete decline is seen up to about 60, from where the decline is more obvious. Muscular endurance showed great variability between individuals. However, no decrease in endurance was seen in older ages. For both sexes, lower reference limits of endurance, with the methods used, for arm abductors are suggested as being 3 minutes and for hip flexors, 90 seconds.
Effects of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) on spasticity in patients with hemiplegia
Authors: Potisk KP , Gregoric M , Vodovnik L.
Published: August 2024

The effect of afferent cutaneous electrical stimulation on the spasticity of leg muscles was studied in 20 patients with chronic hemiplegia after stroke. Stimulation electrodes were placed over the sural nerve of the affected limb. The standard method of cutaneous stimulation, TENS with impulse frequency of 100 Hz, was applied. The tonus of the leg muscles was measured by means of an electrohydraulic measuring brace. The EMG stretch reflex activity of the tibialis anterior and triceps surae muscles was detected by surface electrodes and recorded simultaneously with the measured biomechanical parameters. In 18 out of 20 patients, a mild but statistically significant decrease in resistive torques at all frequencies of passive ankle movements was recorded following 20 min of TENS application. The decrease in resistive torque was often (but not always) accompanied by a decrease in reflex EMG activity. This effect of TENS persisted up to 45 min after the end of TENS. The results of the study support the hypothesis that TENS applied to the sural nerve may induce short-term post-stimulation inhibitory effects on the abnormally enhanced stretch reflex activity in spasticity of cerebral origin.
A comparison of the range of walking speeds between normal and hemiplegic subjects
Authors: Turnbull GI , Charteris J , Wall JC.
Published: August 2024

It is known that people who have suffered stroke walk slower than normal. However, their ability to deviate from a preferred speed of walking has not been reported. This study investigated the range of walking speeds of 20 hemiplegic subjects and compared the results with those of 20 normal age- and gender-matched controls. All subjects traversed a computerized grid walkway which measured selected temporal and spatial gait parameters. Subjects walked at five self-selected speeds: "normal"; "slower than normal"; "slowest"; "faster than normal"; and "fastest". Comparisons were made between velocity, range of velocity, stride time and stride length. The hemiplegic group walked significantly slower at all speeds, were less capable of adapting the speed of their gait, possessed a markedly reduced range of walking speed, and walked more cautiously than the controls. These deficiencies are likely to limit the stroke person's ability to respond to environmental demands.
Description and validation of a test of motor function and activities in stroke patients. The Sødring Motor Evaluation of Stroke Patients
Authors: Sødring KM , Bautz-Holter E , Ljunggren AE , Wyller TB.
Published: August 2024

A new method (The Sødring Motor Evaluation of Stroke Patients) has been developed for physiotherapists to evaluate motor function and activities in stroke patients. Its main characteristics are the assessment of motor activity without assisting the patient, and the use of a rating which reflects quantity as well as quality in motor performance. A hospitalised group of stroke patients (n = 93) was assessed three times after the acute event, by means of SMES. The data were analysed regarding construct validity as well as concurrent validity against another assessment method. Factor analyses showed a reasonably stable three-factor pattern ("arm", "gross motor function", and "leg") which explained 84, 89 and 90%, respectively, of the variance at the three study points, with Factor 1 ("arm") as the dominant factor. The ordinality of the rating scale was assessed by means of linear regression analysis and found to be acceptable. The correlation coefficients were high between comparable parts of the new and the reference methods.
Functional balance tests in 76-year-olds in relation to performance, activities of daily living and platform tests
Authors: Frändin K , Sonn U , Svantesson U , Grimby G.
Published: August 2024

Functional balance was studied in a sample of 98 women and 75 men from a population study. Tests used were one-legged stance and walking in a figure of eight. The results revealed that both static and dynamic functional balance were significantly correlated to isometric knee extensor strength, walking speed and stair-climbing capacity, while the association with activities of daily living (ADL) was modest in this sample of relatively healthy elderly persons. A sub-sample of 17 women and 10 men also performed balance tests on a force plate. Velocity of the sway path with both open and closed eyes was significantly correlated to the functional balance tests. Mean sway in the anterior-posterior direction and area tested with closed eyes were significantly correlated to the functional static balance test. There were no significant associations between the platform variables and the results in the performance tests. This study demonstrated differences between the sexes in that males were able to stand for a longer time on one leg, while they swayed more than females on the platform.
Physical strength and endurance in relation to perceived psychosocial work environment, sleep disturbance and coping strategies in men. Stockholm MUSIC I (MUsculo-Skeletal Intervention Centre) Study Group, Stockholm
Authors: Theorell T , Schüldt C , Ekholm J , Michélsen H.
Published: August 2024

The study explored relationships between subjective descriptions of psychosocial work situation, sleep disturbance and coping patterns at work on the one hand and performance during a test of physical strength and perceived effort during a muscular endurance test on the other. The physical strength of the shoulders flexors was measured. The subjective degree of effort was rated 60 and 90 seconds after the beginning of a test of isometric endurance of the neck extensor muscles. Four samples with numbers of about 80 subjects each were studied, first of all one sample of men and one of women from the general working population and secondly a sample of "super male" workers (furniture removers) and a sample of "service oriented female" workers (medical secretaries). The findings indicated that there is a relationship among men between self-reported coping strategies at work and results in the physical tests. Thus, in the random sample of men, individuals who described open coping patterns were found to perceive more effort after one minute and also after one minute and a half of the physical endurance test and were also found to be physically stronger than other individuals. Those who described themselves as less supported socially than other men reported more subjective effort and tended to be physically stronger than other individuals. Among furniture removers, those who described that they had a high degree of covert coping tended to report a higher degree of subjective effort after one minute. Among men in both groups, a high degree of sleep disturbance tended to be associated with more perceived effort during the endurance test
Energy cost during ambulation in transfemoral amputees: a knee joint with a mechanical swing phase control vs a knee joint with a pneumatic swing phase control
Authors: Boonstra AM , Schrama J , Fidler V , Eisma WH.
Published: August 2024

The aim of the study was (i) to evaluate the preference of transfemoral amputees for a 4-bar linked knee joint with either a mechanical swing phase control or a pneumatic swing phase control, and (ii) to compare the energy expenditure in transfemoral amputees using a prosthesis with a mechanical swing phase control with that of the same amputees using a prosthesis with a pneumatic swing phase control. The study included 28 unilateral transfemoral amputees amputated for reasons other than chronic vascular disease. All patients had a prosthesis with a knee joint with mechanical swing phase control (the Otto Bock 3R20) before entering the study. The amputees changed their knee joint to one with pneumatic swing phase control (the Tehlin knee joint) at random either after the first or second assessment. The amputees were asked for their preference at the second and third assessments. The energy expenditure while walking at speeds of 2 and 3 km/h was measured at each assessment. After having tried both knee joints, 19 patients preferred the Tehlin knee, 6 patients preferred the Otto Bock 3R20, and 3 patients had no preference. The energy expenditure measurement showed that walking with the Tehlin knee required more energy than walking with Otto Bock 3R20. Because of the limited number of patients included in the study and the fact that a double-blind design was impossible to achieve, conclusions should be drawn with caution.
Cervicocephalic kinesthetic sensibility in patients with whiplash injury
Authors: Heikkilä H , Aström PG.
Published: August 2024

This study investigated cervicocephalic kinesthetic sensibility in patients with whiplash injury and the effects of a rehabilitation programme. Fourteen patients with a whiplash injury and 34 healthy subjects participated in this study. The ability to appreciate both movement and the position of the head with respect to the trunk was investigated. Active head repositioning was significantly less precise in the whiplash subjects compared to the control group. Repositioning was more precise in whiplash subjects after the 5-week rehabilitation programme. There was no correlation between error of repositioning in patients and pain intensity. It is probable that cervicocephalic kinesthesia is linked to sensory information from the extensive muscular and articular proprioceptive system. A flexion-extension injury to the neck may result in dysfunction of this system.
A shoulder pain score: a comprehensive questionnaire for assessing pain in patients with shoulder complaints
Authors: Winters JC , Sobel JS , Groenier KH , Arendzen JH , Meyboom-De Jong B.
Published: August 2024

This study describes the validation and application of a comprehensive questionnaire (the shoulder pain score) in assessing pain experienced by patients with shoulder complaints. The shoulder pain score comprised six pain symptom questions selected from the literature, together with a 101-Numerical Rating Scale (NRS-101). The score was tested in a follow-up study of 101 patients with shoulder complaints. The coefficient for the internal consistency of the shoulder pain score was 0.82. A factor analysis disclosed two factors: one containing the NRS-101 with the "active" items of the shoulder pain score and another containing the "passive" items. The shoulder pain score gave a reliable impression of the pain experienced and proved to be a useful instrument for following the course of the disorder over time and giving an indication when a patient feels cured.
Isokinetic performance capacity of trunk muscles. Part II: Coefficient of variation in isokinetic measurement in maximal effort and in submaximal effort
Authors: Luoto S , Hupli M , Alaranta H , Hurri H.
Published: August 2024

It has been claimed that with the aid of isokinetic trunk strength measuring devices it is possible to distinguish true muscular weakness from submaximal effort in the test. This proposition is based on the presumption that in the isokinetic trunk strength test identical performances can only be reproduced by maximal effort. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether it is possible to distinguish maximal effort from submaximal with the aid of the coefficient of variation (CV) in an isokinetic trunk muscle strength test. The study group included 35 (21 male and 14 female) subjects of whom 12 were healthy, 10 had a mild low-back pain and 13 had a more severe chronic low-back pain. The subjects performed five consecutive bendings both with maximal (100%) and submaximal (50%) efforts at a speed of 90 degrees/second. In maximal effort only healthy subjects reached an average level of CV close to 10% both in extension and in flexion. In the chronic low-back pain group the average CV was close to 20%. The difference in CV was statistically significant (p < 0.05-0.02) between the healthy and the chronic low-back pain subjects. In the submaximal effort all health groups had a CV of approximately 20% or more and no significant differences were found. The group of slightly variable measurements (CV = 11-20%) was remarkably large in both the maximal and submaximal effort. The results suggest that an effort with a CV of 11-20% cannot be classified as definitely submaximal or maximal. When the CV is less than 10% the effort can be fairly certainly classified as maximal.
Importance and attainment of life values among disabled and non-disabled people
Authors: Montgomery H , Persson LO , Rydén A.
Published: August 2024

How do disabled persons evaluate their life situation? To address this issue, importance and attainment ratings of 82 different life values as well as mood ratings were collected from 325 chronically ill and/or disabled persons and 504 non-disabled persons. Both groups largely agreed on what is important in life. The disabled persons, however, gave lower importance ratings on functions related to health and mobility. The attainment and mood ratings were in general slightly lower for the disabled persons. The attainment ratings for health and mobility were markedly lower. The concordance between rated importance and attainment across different life values was positive in both groups. This measure was also positively related to mood in both samples. It was suggested that disabled persons adjust to their life situation by de-emphasizing the importance of the physical functions affected by the disability and through habituation.
A criterion for stability of the motor function of the lower extremity in stroke patients using the Fugl-Meyer Assessment Scale
Authors: Beckerman  , Vogelaar TW , Lankhorst GJ , Verbeek AL.
Published: August 2024

A test-retest reproducibility study was performed to define a criterion for stability as opposed to change of motor function of the lower extremity in stroke patients. Forty-nine patients with stroke were examined twice by the same physiotherapist, using the Fugl-Meyer Assessment Scale. The interval between both measurements was three weeks. The mean differences between the first and the second measurement were small, with 0.04 points for the lower extremity scale and 0.92 points for the balance scale, respectively. Intraclass correlation coefficient for the lower extremity scale was 0.86, and 0.34 for the balance scale. The standard error of measurement for each scale was 1.76 and 1.17 points, respectively. The standard error of measurement can be transformed in an 'error threshold', which is a criterion to differentiate real changes from changes due to chance variation or measurement error. As the absence of real change is a parameter for stability, a change of less than 5 points for the lower extremity scale and of less than 4 points for balance confirms stability of motor function.