bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Motivating factors for return to work
Authors: Gard Guvnor , Sandberg Ann Christine
Published: March 2006

Background and Purpose

A new concept to increase return to work for patients listed as sick with chronic musculoskeletal pain has been used at a rehabilitation centre in Luleå, Sweden. The programme includes work for three days a week and intensive rehabilitation for two days a week, for 12 weeks, as a combination of ‘on the job’ training and rehabilitation after a period off work sick. The rehabilitation programme focused on pain reduction, identifying and finding solutions to pain problems in actual work and life situations and training of the functional capacities needed in the work and life situation. The aim of the study was to describe patients' perceptions of motivating factors for return to work.

Methods

A phenomenological method was used. A naïve reading of interview notes was followed by structural analyses and reflections on the interpreted whole. Inclusion criteria for the study were musculoskeletal pain for at least one year and a period of at least four weeks' sick leave during that time. Ten patients, aged 30–54 years, participated in the study. An initial conceptual framework was developed to inform the scope of the study and to guide data collection and analysis.

Results

Different factors in the study framework influenced motivation to return to work. Among structural factors the division of labour at work was the most important motivator, particularly the ability to do as much as work colleagues, quantitatively and qualitatively. All the patients had jobs in the health‐care or service sectors, jobs with many social contacts. They perceived their work task content as being of minor importance compared to whether the tasks were perceived as meaningful or highly needed by others. All wanted a meaningful job content and a job which they could do in a satisfactory way according to their own norms and compared to colleagues. This highly increased motivation for return to work. Relationships (in terms of cooperation with colleagues and service to patients or clients) were important motivating factors for return to work. Self‐confidence was a new factor of importance for return to work; work tasks had to be meaningful and needed by others, work must be done in a way satisfactory for the individual and in a way that was acceptable to others in the group. Everyday responsibility, feedback and support in daily work tasks were important. These aspects increased self‐confidence. The results supported the development of a new conceptual framework for possible motivating factors for return to work.

Conclusions

Structure, content, relationships, health and self‐confidence were all important motivating factors for return to work. Copyright © 1998 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Changes in balance and locomotion measures during rehabilitation following stroke
Authors: Bernhardt Julie , Ellis Paul , Denisenko Sonia , Hill Keith
Published: March 2006

Background and Purpose

This study aimed to examine the utility of a number of measures of balance and locomotion for the purpose of measuring change in a group of stroke patients undergoing in‐patient rehabilitation. The aim was to select a core group of measures based on empirical evidence of usefulness rather than personal preference.

Methods

Twenty‐nine stroke patients undergoing in‐patient rehabilitation (mean age 71.8 ± 10.5 years; 66% male) participated in the study. A prospective design was utilized with repeated measurement undertaken at four, six and eight weeks post‐stroke. Static standing, the Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction of Balance (CTSIB) (Shumway‐Cook & Horak, 1986), functional reach (FR), repetitive reach (RR), step test (ST), gait velocity, stride length and the Motor Assessment Scale (Carr et al., 1985) (walking item) were assessed at each interval.

Results

All measures of dynamic balance showed significant change over the four‐week measurement period (p < 0.0036). Factor analysis identified two factors which grouped tests into static and dynamic, with a trend towards a third factor incorporating bipedal dynamic tests. Tests of static balance suffered from ceiling effects, whereas dynamic tests of balance and gait suffered from floor effects. Dynamic tests were more responsive (Standardized Response Measure (SRM) > 0.75) to change over the rehabilitation period than static tests.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that a clinically useful and responsive balance and mobility test battery should include one component of the CTSIB (Shumway‐Cook & Horak, 1986), RR (step stance), ST and gait velocity. Copyright © 1998 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Functional capacity and early radiographic osteoarthritis in middle‐aged people with chronic knee pain
Authors: Larsson Ann‐Charlotte , Petersson Ingemar , Ekdahl Charlotte
Published: March 2006

Background and Purpose

In order to improve the physiotherapeutic treatment of patients with long‐standing knee pain, it it important to identify osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee at an early stage. The aim of the present study was to test the value of single functional measurement variables with the focus on the lower extremities for the association to early radiographic signs of OA of the knee. The classification by Ahlbäck grade I (joint space narrowing) was used in a cohort of 204 individuals aged 35–54 years with long‐standing knee pain.

Methods

The following five selected tests were employed: three tests of static and dynamic balance (Balance I–III); one test of muscle strength (one‐leg‐rising‐test, OLR); and one test of walking ability (time for walking 300 m indoors). Odds ratios (ORs) were calculated with a 95% confidence interval.

Results and Conclusions

Results revealed that the selected tests of functional capacity due to rather low sensitivity (0.15–0.81), specificity (0.21–0.86) and inconclusive odds ratios (0.78–1.62) are probably of limited value as assessment tools to find radiographic knee OA in a younger population with mild OA. However, it is also possible to conclude that in middle‐aged individuals with chronic knee pain, the diagnosis of radiographic OA is not related to the functional capacity as measured in the present study. Copyright © 1998 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Learning physiotherapy: students' ways of experiencing the patient encounter
Authors: Dahlgren Madeleine Abrandt
Published: March 2006

Background and Purpose

The aim of this paper was to describe and analyse the impact of formal education and professional experience on physiotherapy students' ways of experiencing interaction within a patient encounter.

Method

Two groups of physiotherapy students were interviewed on two occasions; during the second and last term of their formal education programme, and during the last term and after 18 months' professional experience. Data were subjected to a qualitative analysis. Changes in conceptions between the two interview occasions were described quantitatively.

Results

Subjects' ways of experiencing interaction within a patient encounter could be described in four main categories: Mutuality; Technicalism; Authority and Juxtaposition. Mutuality and Technicalism denoted an integration of the communicative and problem‐solving processes involved in the encounter, the former category from a patient‐centred and the latter from a physiotherapist‐centred perspective. Authority and Juxtaposition denoted a separation of the processes, the former from a physiotherapist‐centred perspective and the latter from a patient‐centred one.

Conclusions

The results show a trend as regards direction of change in conceptions from separated to integrated perspectives on the communicative and problem‐solving processes after the formal education programme. After 18 months' professional practice the Mutuality category dominated. Copyright © 1998 Whurr Publications Ltd.
Fall events described by people with Parkinson's disease: implications for clinical interviewing and the research agenda
Authors: Stack Emma , Ashburn Ann
Published: March 2006

Background and Purpose

The aim of this study was to describe the terminology used by people with Parkinson's disease (PD) when recounting falls and near‐misses (fall events) and to identify the surrounding circumstances.

Method

This cross‐sectional study (part of an investigation identifying risk factors for falling in PD) utilized structured interviews about falling, conducted in participants' homes. Content analysis of participants' descriptions of events was performed. Fifty‐five independently mobile, community‐dwelling people with PD, identified via general practices in Southampton took part in the study.

Results

Mean participant age was 71.5 years (SD = 7.6 years); mean time since diagnosis was 3.6 years (SD = 2.3 years). Thirty‐four participants (62%) reported having fallen and 41 (75%) reported having nearly fallen in the previous 12 months. Recounting events, participants mentioned the location, frequency, process and landing, their activity and fall‐avoidance. Falls at home, tripping, events arising when turning, falling forward, frequent near‐misses and unsuccessful restoration of balance were commonly described.

Conclusions

Frequent recounting of processes, locations and landings suggest these details are memorable and easily recalled. Eliciting the activities during which events occurred, their frequency and avoidance‐strategies, may necessitate probing by interviewers. An interview schedule is proposed. Aspects common to falls and near‐misses, particularly turning, suggest a natural progression of activity‐related falls. Copyright © 1999 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Back pain in women post‐partum is not a unitary concept
Authors: Nilsson‐Wikmar Lena , Harms‐Ringdahl Karin , Pilo Christina , Pahlbäck Margareta
Published: March 2006

Background and Purpose

At least half of all pregnant women experience back pain at some time during pregnancy and some of them also have persisting back pain post‐partum. The aim of the present study was to identify and classify back problems in women post‐partum by use of different pain provocation tests and define their relationship to spinal sagittal configuration and mobility.

Method

One hundred and nineteen women with back pain persisting two months after delivery were interviewed and examined, on average 7.2 months post‐partum. Ten clinical pain provocation tests were performed. The first was performed to identify hip pain, the second to identify radiating pain and the other eight tests were performed to provoke pain in the areas of the posterior pelvic/sacroiliac joints, the symphysis pubis and the lumbar spine. The spinal sagittal configuration and mobility were measured in the thoracic and lumbar spine, respectively, with Debrunner's kyphometer (Protek AG, Berne, Switzerland).

Results

Twenty‐seven per cent of women had pain in the area of the posterior pelvic/sacroiliac joints, 18% in the area of the lumbar spine, 39% both in the area of the posterior pelvic/sacroiliac joints and in the lumbar spine, and in 16% no pain could be provoked. There were no statistically significant differences between the four groups with respect to the spinal sagittal configuration or the mobility in the thoracic or lumbar spine.

Conclusions

Back pain post‐partum is not a unitary concept. Based on the clinical tests, women with back pain post‐partum can be separated into groups with different pain localizations. The measuring of the spinal sagittal configuration and mobility did not help to further identify or classify post‐partum back pain. Copyright © 1999 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Intra‐ and inter‐rater reliability of an 11‐test package for assessing dysfunction due to back or neck pain
Authors: Ljungquist Therese , Harms‐Ringdahl Karin , Nygren Åke , Jensen Irene
Published: March 2006

Background and Purpose

The intra‐ and inter‐rater reliability of 11 tests assembled by physiotherapists for clinical purposes was investigated. Forty‐five patients and 23 healthy volunteers participated in the study.

Method

Twenty‐one patients were tested simultaneously and independently by two physiotherapists to determine inter‐rater reliability for two raters. Twenty‐four patients and 11 healthy volunteers were tested by one physiotherapist three times in a week to determine intra‐rater reliability over time. Twelve healthy volunteers were tested by three different physiotherapists in a week to determine inter‐rater reliability for three raters.

Results

Inter‐rater agreement for two simultaneous raters was clinically acceptable. Repeatability on three test occasions was clinically acceptable in six of the 11 tests. There were no systematic differences between occasions.

Conclusions

Intraand inter‐rater reliability was acceptable for six of the 11 tests in the form described here: three gait tests, two functional lifting tests and a functional muscular endurance test in the right leg. If these tests are to be used as outcome measures, account must be taken of the size of the typical fluctuation in measurements shown. The repeatability figures given may be used as guidelines for interpreting the clinical value of possible changes in test values. Copyright © 1999 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
The legacy of being a research subject: follow‐up studies of participants in therapy research
Authors: Barnitt Rosemary , Partridge Cecily
Published: March 2006

Background and Purpose

An increase in research activity in physical therapy has led to a parallel increase in the numbers of patients, colleagues and members of the general public being used as subjects. Safeguards on the ethical aspects of research have been monitored through ethics committees whose task is to protect the interests of subjects. However, proposals are subject to ethical scrutiny prior to commencement of the research, before subjects have given consent. It is unusual for further monitoring to take place once the study is underway or, indeed, after it has finished. Few researchers have reported carrying out follow‐up studies of their subjects, therefore the ethical effect of research on subjects is not known. Our interest was in reports of subjects who had previously been research subjects.

Method

Follow‐up studies were carried out on 156 subjects who had participated in research interviews. Phase 1 of the study included subjects with physical disabilities who lived in residential care (Rs subject group) (Barnitt and Canter, 1982). Phase 2 of the study comprised two research projects, (A) and (B), where subjects were physical therapists and occupational therapists (Ts subject group) (Barnitt, 1993; Barnitt and Partridge, 1997). Data were collected from the Rs subject group through visits, whereas the Ts subject group was sent a letter and short questionnaire three months after completion of an interview to elicit their views on the experience.

Results

Eighty‐seven subjects responded to the approach, a response rate of 56%. Despite having consented to taking part in research, a number of subjects later had concerns about their involvement. These concerns included worries about confidentiality; expectations that had not been met, anger, disappointment, and loss of face. Other subjects reported positive outcomes from the experience.

Conclusion

Researchers should consider including subject follow‐up in their research design, particularly where sensitive research topics are being studied. Copyright © 1999 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Predicting motor recovery of the upper limb after stroke rehabilitation: value of a clinical examination
Authors: Feys Hilde , De Weerdt Willy , Nuyens Godelieve , Van De Winckel Ann , Selz Beat , Kiekens Carlotte
Published: March 2006

Background and Purpose

Only a few studies have been conducted to predict motor recovery of the arm after stroke. The aims of this study were to identify which clinical variables, assessed at different points in time, were predictive of motor recovery, and to construct useful regression equations.

Method

One hundred consecutive stroke patients who had an obvious motor deficit of the upper limb were evaluated on entry to the study (two to five weeks post‐stroke) and at two, six and 12 months after stroke. The Brunnström–Fugl‐Meyer test was used as the outcome measure. Predictors included demographic data, overall disability, clinical neurological features, neuropsychological factors and secondary shoulder complications.

Results

In multiple regression analyses, motor performance was invariably retained as the predictive factor with the highest R‐square. Other significant predictive variables were overall disability, muscle tone, proprioception and hemi‐inattention. Between 53% and 89% of the total amount of variance was accounted for in all selected models. The accuracy of prediction from clinical measurement in the acute phase diminished as the time span of measurement of outcome increased. Similarly, assessment of the variables at two and six months, rather than in the acute stage, resulted in a considerable improvement in the percentage variance explained at 12 months. The highest accuracy was obtained when predictions were made step‐by‐step in time.

Conclusions

It is possible to predict motor recovery of the upper limb accurately through the use of a few clinical measures. Predictive equations are proposed, the use of which are practicable in both clinical practice and research. Copyright © 2000 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Effects of a three‐month therapeutic exercise programme on flexibility in subjects with low back pain
Authors: Kuukkanen Tiina , Mälkiä Esko
Published: March 2006

Background and Purpose

Spinal and muscle flexibility have been studied intensively and used clinically as outcome measurements in the rehabilitation of subjects with low back pain. The results of previous studies are contradictory and there is a lack of longitudinal data on the effects of long term therapeutic exercise on flexibility.

Method

A controlled experimental study was conducted to determine the effects of progressive therapeutic exercise on spinal and muscle flexibility. Eighty‐six chronic low back pain subjects fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were divided into three study groups: (1) intensive training group, (2) home exercise group and (3) control group. The intervention period lasted three months and measurements were performed at both the beginning of the study and immediately after intervention. Follow‐up measurements were carried out six and 12 months after baseline. Spinal flexibility was measured with lumbar flexion, extension, spinal lateral flexion and rotation, and muscle flexibility was measured with measurements of erector spinae, ham‐string and iliopsoas muscles. Also self‐reported outcomes of the Oswestry Index and Borg Scale — Back Pain Intensity were used. Associations between change (pre‐ to post‐treatment) were determined for the dependent variables.

Results

The results showed no correlation between flexibility, the Oswestry Index or back pain intensity. After the first three‐month period lumbar flexion, extension and spinal rotation decreased among all subjects. Spinal rotation and erector spinae muscle flexibility improved significantly with intensive training. At the nine‐month follow‐up, erector spinae flexibility was still greater than at baseline. Hamstring flexibility increased among the intensive training and home exercise groups from pre‐ to post‐intervention. However, the degree of hamstring flexibility gained during training was subsequently lost following the period without programmed exercise in both training groups. Self‐reported outcome variables showed positive changes among the three study groups after the completion of intervention period, but these changes were only able to be maintained during subsequent follow‐ups for the intensive training and home exercise groups.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that flexibility does not play an important role in coping with chronic low back pain for subjects whose functional limitations are not severe. Also, it appears that the achieved gains in spinal and muscle flexibility may not be able to be maintained without continued exercise. Copyright © 2000 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Effect of pulse repetition rate on the perception of thermal sensation with pulsed shortwave diathermy
Authors: Murray Charles Conor , Kitchen Sheila
Published: March 2006

Background and Purpose

Pulsed shortwave diathermy (PSWD) is a form of therapy commonly used to enhance tissue repair and reduce pain. It is normally considered to be an athermal form of treatment; however, there is some evidence to suggest that thermal effects can arise with adequate dosage. The purpose of this study was to determine the pulse repetition rate (PRR) required to generate a ‘possible’ and ‘definite’ thermal sensation when PSWD was applied to the thigh.

Method

Thirty healthy subjects were randomly assigned to placebo or treatment groups. The treatment group was exposed to PSWD at a constant setting of pulse duration (400 µs) and pulse power (190 W) while the PRR was increased from 26 Hz to 400 Hz in 10 increments. Each dose was applied for a period of two minutes. At the end of each application, subjects were asked if they felt a (1) ‘possible’ or (2) ‘definite’ thermal sensation. Skin temperature was measured immediately after each application. Placebo subjects were exposed to PSWD at its lowest settings throughout the experiment (pulse power = 5W; pulse duration = 65 µs and PRR = 26 Hz).

Results

The results showed a significant correlation (p<0.048) between PRR at ‘definite’ thermal sensation and skin temperature post‐treatment and PRR at ‘possible’ thermal sensation (p<0.001). Mean skin temperature increased significantly as PRR was increased, from 28.69 (±0.75) °C pre‐treatment to 31.14 (±1.04) °C post‐treatment, a mean difference of 2.34 °C.

Conclusions

These results suggest that PSWD at adequate dosages can generate thermal effects, and that there is a relationship between these thermal effects and the PRR used. These results may have significant implications for the safe use of PSWD in the clinical arena. Copyright © 2000 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Visual judgements of steadiness in one‐legged stance: reliability and validity
Authors: Haupstein Travis , Goldie Patricia
Published: March 2006

Background and Purpose

There is a paucity of information about the validity and reliability of clinicians' visual judgements of steadiness in one‐legged stance. Such judgements are used frequently in clinical practice to support decisions about treatment in the fields of neurology, sports medicine, paediatrics and orthopaedics. The aim of the present study was to address the validity and reliability of visual judgements of steadiness in one‐legged stance in a group of physiotherapists.

Method

A videotape of 20 five‐second performances was shown to 14 physiotherapists with median clinical experience of 6.75 years. Validity of visual judgement was established by correlating scores obtained from an 11‐point rating scale with criterion scores obtained from a force platform. In addition, partial correlations were used to control for the potential influence of body weight on the relationship between the visual judgements and criterion scores. Inter‐observer reliability was quantified between the physiotherapists; intra‐observer reliability was quantified between two tests four weeks apart.

Results

Mean criterion‐related validity was high, regardless of whether body weight was controlled for statistically (Pearson's r=0.84, 0.83, respectively). The standard error of estimating the criterion score was 3.3 newtons. Inter‐observer reliability was high (ICC (2,1) = 0.81 at Test 1 and 0.82 at Test 2). Intra‐observer reliability was high (on average ICC (2,1) = 0.88; Pearson's r = 0.90). The standard error of measurement for the 11‐point scale was one unit.

Conclusions

The finding of higher accuracy of making visual judgements than previously reported may be due to several aspects of design: use of a criterion score derived from the variability of the force signal which is more discriminating than variability of centre of pressure; use of a discriminating visual rating scale; specificity and clear definition of the phenomenon to be rated. Copyright © 2000 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
The Mobility Interaction Fall chart
Authors: Lundin‐Olsson Lillemor , Nyberg Lars , Gustafson Yngve
Published: March 2006

Background and Purpose

The aim of this study was to develop and evaluate a screening tool for the identification of older people living in residential care facilities who are prone to falling.

Method

Two tests focusing on attentional demands while walking were performed: ‘Stops walking when talking’ and the ‘diffTUG’. Medical assessment, rating for cognition, depression and activities of daily living were also carried out. Falls indoors were followed up prospectively over a period of six months. A flowchart, the Mobility Interaction Fall (MIF) chart, for the identification of older people who are prone to falling was developed. The MIF chart includes an observation of mobility level and ‘Stops walking when talking’, the diffTUG, a test of vision and a rating of concentration. Study subjects were 78 residents, aged over 65 years, in one residential care facility (22 M; 56 F; median age 82 years, range 66–99 years) in Umeå, Sweden.

Results

Thirty‐three (42%) subjects suffered at least one fall indoors during the follow‐up period. The rate of falls differed significantly between those subjects classified as being at risk of falls and those not so classified (log rank test 39.1; p<0.001; hazard ratio 12.1; 95% CI 4.6–31.8). The positive predictive value for the classification was 78% (95% CI 67–87%) and the negative predictive value was 88% (95% CI 79–95%).

Conclusion

The initial findings for the MIF chart indicate a promising way of classifying older people at residential care facilities as being at high or low risk of falling. The classification is quick and easy and requires no expensive equipment. Copyright © 2000 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Pressure pain thresholds of upper limb peripheral nerve trunks in asymptomatic subjects
Authors: Sterling Michele , Treleaven Julia , Edwards Sandra , Jull Gwendolen
Published: March 2006

Background and Purpose

Palpation of peripheral nerve trunks has been advocated as a method of assessing the presence of hyperalgesic nerve tissue as a contributing factor to pain syndromes in musculoskeletal disorders of the upper quadrant. This study investigated, in the first instance, the pressure pain thresholds of the median, radial and ulnar nerve trunks of the upper limb in healthy, asymptomatic subjects.

Method

Forty‐five male and 50 female healthy volunteer subjects participated in this study which involved measurement of pressure pain thresholds by use of pressure algometry bilaterally over the three peripheral nerve trunks in the upper limbs.

Results

Pressure pain thresholds were shown to be lowest in the median nerve (p=0.001) and lower in female subjects (p=0.001). Laterality (p=0.077) or the age of the subject (p=0.254) did not significantly influence results.

Conclusions

The study demonstrated differences in pressure pain thresholds in the three nerve trunks of the upper limb. These findings should be taken into account when interpreting the findings of nerve palpation in musculoskeletal upper quadrant disorders. Copyright © 2000 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Clinical reasoning of an experienced physiotherapist: insight into clinician decision‐making regarding low back pain
Authors: Noll Eric , Key Aaron , Jensen Gail
Published: March 2006

Background and Purpose

Investigation of the clinical reasoning skills of experienced clinicians provides insight into decision‐making in the practice of physiotherapy. The purpose of the present study was to analyse the clinical reasoning skills of an experienced physiotherapist during her assessment and treatment of clients with low back pain.

Method

Deconstruction of the physiotherapist's reasoning process was accomplished through observation of encounters between her and each of six patient subjects. Reconstruction and analysis of the physiotherapist's decision‐making process was performed through retrospective interviews and reflective analysis of her clinical reasoning during each encounter.

Results

A working model of the physiotherapist's clinical reasoning was created from an integration of theoretical elements in the literature and the data. Through analysis of this framework, two core dimensions of her clinical reasoning were revealed: the influence of clinical experience and the influence of advanced training in a specific philosophy of treating the spine.

Conclusions

The construction of these themes has contributed to the growing understanding of clinical reasoning strategies and skills used in orthopaedic physical therapy practice. Detailed description of the physiotherapist's reasoning process provides more meaningful understanding of physiotherapy treatments. In this case the physiotherapist employed a pattern recognition strategy and forward reasoning process in making a diagnosis. Further research is necessary to expand knowledge on the development of clinical reasoning skills. Copyright © 2001 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
A 12‐year follow‐up of subjects initially sicklisted with neck/shoulder or low back diagnoses
Authors: Kjellman Görel , ÖBerg Birgitta , Hensing Gunnel , Alexanderson Kristina
Published: March 2006

Background and Purpose

Neck/shoulder and low back pain are common in the Western world and can cause great personal and economic consequences, but so far there are few long term follow‐up studies of the consequences of back pain, especially studies that separate the location of back pain. More knowledge is needed about different patterns of risk factors and prognoses for neck/shoulder and low back pain, respectively, and they should not be treated as similar conditions. The aim of the present study was to investigate possible long‐term differences in neck/shoulder and low back symptoms, experienced over a 12‐year period, with regard to work status, present health, discomfort and influence on daily activities.

Method

A retrospective cohort study of individuals sicklisted with neck/shoulder or low back diagnoses 12 years ago was undertaken. Included were all 213 people who, in 1985, lived in the municipality of Linköping, Sweden, were aged 25–34 years and who had taken at least one new period of sickleave lasting >28 days with a neck/shoulder or low back diagnosis. In 1996, a questionnaire was mailed to the 204 people who were still resident in Sweden (response rate 73%).

Results

Those initially absent with neck/shoulder diagnoses rated their present state of discomfort as worse than those sicklisted with low back diagnoses. Only 4% of the neck/shoulder group reported no present discomfort compared with 25% of the low back group. Notably, both groups reported the same duration of low back discomfort during the last year, which may indicate a higher risk for symptoms in more than one location for subjects with neck/shoulder problems.

Conclusions

Individuals with sickness absence of more than 28 days with neck/shoulder or low back diagnoses appear to be at high risk of developing long‐standing symptoms, significantly more so for those initially having neck/shoulder diagnoses. Copyright © 2001 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Reliability and responsiveness of the shuttle walking test in patients with chronic low back pain
Authors: Taylor Stewart , Frost Helen , Taylor Ann , Barker Karen
Published: March 2006

Background and Purpose

Walking is an important functional activity and the shuttle walking test has been shown to be a useful test for patients with chronic airways obstruction and heart failure. The test has been used in low back pain research over recent years and has increasingly been used as an outcome measure to investigate treatment efficacy in patients with low back pain. The aim of the present study was to determine the reliability and responsiveness of the shuttle walking test within a group of patients with low back pain (with or without sciatica).

Method

Reliability of the shuttle walking test was determined on a group of patients with low back pain (n = 44) using the Bland and Altman (1986) limits of agreement and the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Responsiveness was assessed using the standardized effect size. The mean distance walked within a patient population (n = 337) was compared with an age‐ and sex‐matched group of healthy subjects (n = 122).

Results

The shuttle walking test obtained an ICC score of 0.99, whereas the limits of agreement test gave a mean difference of 2.5 m with upper and lower limits of agreement of 52 m and −47 m, respectively. Patients undertaking fitness training reached an effect size of 1.2 compared to a control group of 0.23 and 0.94 for a group undergoing various orthopaedic treatments.

Conclusions

The present study has shown that the shuttle walking test is a reliable and responsive test within a group of patients with low back pain, with or without sciatica. It is simple to administer and provides a quick method of measuring one aspect of a patient's physical function. Copyright © 2001 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Reliability of measurement of angular movements of the pelvis and lumbar spine during treadmill walking
Authors: Taylor Nicholas , Evans Owen , Goldie Patricia
Published: March 2006

Background and Purpose

Angular movements of the pelvis and lumbar spine are thought to play an important role in walking. However, little is known about the amount of unpredictable variability in measurement of these movements during human walking. The aim of the present study was to determine the retest reliability of measuring the angular movements of the pelvis and lumbar spine during unimpaired familiarized treadmill walking.

Method

Retest reliability for 26 subjects without pathology was determined over a one‐week interval. Subjects walked on a treadmill at self‐selected or a slower speed while measurements of the three‐dimensional angular movements were taken with a computer‐based video analysis system.

Results

The frontal plane movements of pelvic list and lumbar lateral flexion (relative to the pelvis) could be measured with high retest reliability at both self‐selected and slow walking speeds (intraclass coefficient (ICC) (2,1) ≥ 0.81). In contrast, transverse and sagittal plane movements demonstrated moderate reliability at both speeds (0.37 ≤ ICC (2,1) ≤ 0.76). Averaging the measurement over six strides resulted in increased observed reliability (self‐selected walking speed summary Pearson's r = 0.71, slow walking speed summary Pearson's r = 0.79) compared to taking the measurement based on a single stride (self‐selected walking speed summary Pearson's r = 0.63, slow walking speed summary Pearson's r = 0.67). Unlike pelvic and lumbar movements (relative to the pelvis), the measurement of lumbar movements (relative to the global reference frame) appeared to depend on whether subjects were walking at self‐selected or slow speeds.

Conclusions

Measurement of pelvic list and lumbar lateral flexion (relative to the pelvis) could be applied with confidence to hypothesis testing about individuals or groups. Movements in the transverse and sagittal planes are unlikely to be appropriate in hypothesis testing about individuals and hence clinical practice, but may still have experimental applications in hypothesis testing about groups. Copyright © 2001 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Peripheral cutaneous nerve distribution to the fingers
Authors: Stappaerts Karel H. , Van Hees Johan , Van Den Broeck Erika A.
Published: March 2006

Both sensory distribution charts and the unaffected side, are used as reference points in the assessment of cutaneous innervation. Sensory nerve conduction studies, in particular, often use comparison between sides. However, remarkable differences can be found between various sensory innervation maps, and no evidence was found in the literature for the assumption that the pattern of cutaneous sensory distribution of the peripheral nerves between the left and right limbs is symmetrical. The purpose of this study was to investigate variations in the sensory innervation of the fingers by means of a neurophysio‐logical method, and to compare the results for the left and right hands. The subjects of this study were 31 young women. Percutaneous peripheral nerve stimulation was performed on the four nerve branches providing sensory innervation to the fingers, and action potentials were sought from the fingers by use of annular surface electrodes. Variations in the cutaneous innervation of the fingers between individuals often occurred and were found more frequently on the dorsal than the palmar aspect. The distribution of sensory innervation may even differ markedly between hands in the same individual. The cutaneous innervation of all peripheral nerves supplying the fingers may differ from the innervation patterns described in the various distribution charts. Prudence is called for when applying sensory distribution charts as absolute references for the assessment of cutaneous sensation in patients. Caution should also be applied when comparing one hand with the other when assessing the cutaneous innervation of the fingers. Copyright © 1996 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Fold recognition and accurate sequence–structure alignment of sequences directing β‐sheet proteins
Authors: McDonnell Andrew V. , Menke Matthew , Palmer Nathan , King Jonathan , Cowen Lenore , Berger Bonnie
Published: March 2006

The ability to predict structure from sequence is particularly important for toxins, virulence factors, allergens, cytokines, and other proteins of public health importance. Many such functions are represented in the parallel β‐helix and β‐trefoil families. A method using pairwise β‐strand interaction probabilities coupled with evolutionary information represented by sequence profiles is developed to tackle these problems for the β‐helix and β‐trefoil folds. The algorithm BetaWrapPro employs a “wrapping” component that may capture folding processes with an initiation stage followed by processive interaction of the sequence with the already‐formed motifs. BetaWrapPro outperforms all previous motif recognition programs for these folds, recognizing the β‐helix with 100% sensitivity and 99.7% specificity and the β‐trefoil with 100% sensitivity and 92.5% specificity, in crossvalidation on a database of all nonredundant known positive and negative examples of these fold classes in the PDB. It additionally aligns 88% of residues for the β‐helices and 86% for the β‐trefoils accurately (within four residues of the exact positon) to the structural template, which is then used with the side‐chain packing program SCWRL to produce 3D structure predictions. One striking result has been the prediction of an unexpected parallel β‐helix structure for a pollen allergen, and its recent confirmation through solution of its structure. A Web server running BetaWrapPro is available and outputs putative PDB‐style coordinates for sequences predicted to form the target folds. Proteins 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
AIChE initiatives to promote effective management of chemical reactivity hazards
Authors: Berger Scott
Published: March 2006

Over the last several decades, AIChE has taken a leadership role in advancing the technology and management of chemical reactivity hazards. This paper describes the successes of recent AIChE activities and introduces a current effort to bring practical understanding and application of these concepts both to smaller businesses and to businesses that do not manufacture chemicals but nonetheless may have chemical reactivity hazards to manage. © 2006 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog, 2006
First time measurement of gamma‐ray excited LaBr3:5% Ce3+ and LaCl3:10% Ce3+ temperature dependent properties
Authors: Bizarri G. , de Haas J. T. M. , Dorenbos P. , van Eijk C. W. E.
Published: March 2006

We have measured for the first time the temperature dependence of LaBr3:5% Ce3+ and LaCl3:10% Ce3+ gamma‐ray excited light yields and decay curves between 100 and 600 K. Under gamma‐ray excitation, both scintillators present a very good thermal stability over the entire temperature range. The light yield of LaBr3 is maximum at 100 K and decreases monotonously from 100 to 600 K. The decrease at 600 K does not exceed 15% of the maximum value. The light yield of LaCl3 is maximum at 600 K and decreases with decreasing temperatures. The lowest value is reached at 150 K and corresponds to 90% of the maximum light yield recorded at 600 K. Our results show that LaBr3:5% Ce3+ and LaCl3:10% Ce3+ crystals can be used in applications where temperature conditions are extreme such as in oil well logging. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Generalized Hubbard model for many‐electron states of the diamond vacancies: A non‐CI approach
Authors: Saani M. Heidari , Vesaghi M. A. , Esfarjani K. , Shafiekhani A.
Published: March 2006

Many‐electron calculations based on a generalized Hubbard Hamiltonian for electronic states of the diamond vacancies are reported. The model does not use the configuration interaction (CI) method and proper tetrahedral symmetry and spin properties of the defect are included in the Hamiltonian. Atomic orbital bases are introduced for the Hamiltonian calculation. Excited states of both neutral and negatively charged vacancies in diamond are calculated. The calculated values for the experimentally observed first dipole transition energies of the vacancies in diamond, GR1 and ND1 bands, are in good agreement with experiment. To obtain these results, we used a semi‐empirical Hamiltonian parameter. The position of the low‐lying 3T 1 state was found to be 260 meV above the ground state, which is consistent with experimental expectations. In addition to the energy spectrum, the model gives all eigenfunctions of the vacancies, which have not been calculated before. This model has high potential for further applications in point defects of diamond and other semiconductors. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Intermolecular interaction of carbon disulfide under pressure (high pressure and effective negative solvation pressure)
Authors: Ishibashi Y. , Mishina T. , Nakahara J.
Published: March 2006

Raman spectra of liquid carbon disulfide (CS2) were measured under high pressures and in dilution with ethanol and with heptane. The pressure and concentration dependences of the molecular vibration modes ν 1 and 2ν 2 of CS2 are discussed. The intermolecular distance changes simultaneously with concentration and pressure. In addition, dilution also varies the environment around the CS2 molecule. The derivative of the intermolecular interaction energy is obtained from the frequency shift from the gas phase to the liquid phase of the ν 1 and 2ν 2 vibrations. The results show that dilution effectively acts as negative pressures, where the intermolecular distance between CS2 molecules increases in the mixtures with ethanol and heptane. These effective pressures and pressures give the change in the intramolecular double bond between carbon and sulfur atoms. But, these give a different effect for the damping of vibrations. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Structural and magnetic properties of Fe0.45Mn0.25Al0.30 alloys prepared by mechanical alloying
Authors: Medina M. H. , Alcázar G. A. Pérez
Published: March 2006

Samples from the Fe0.45Mn0.25Al0.30 system were prepared by mechanical alloying during 4, 8, 12, 16, 22 and 24 h by using two different powder‐mass‐to‐ball‐mass ratios of: 1:7.5 and 1:4. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) characterization reveled that samples with 1:7.5 ratios consolidate in a ternary Fe–Mn–Al α‐Fe solid solution at 8 h (chemical mixing time) and those with 1:4 ratios after more than 12 h milling. Mössbauer effect studies (MS) in conjunction with XRD studies show, in samples with a 1:7.5 ratio, a paramagnetic site and a hyperfine field distribution (HFD) for 4 h and only a paramagnetic site for 8 h or more. Therefore, the solid solution is paramagnetic in the stable state. Similar results were obtained for 1:4 ratios, but the paramagnetic site was observed after 16 h or more. Mössbauer studies at low temperatures of the sample milled for 12 h and a 1:4 ratio demonstrate that this sample presents a re‐entrant spin‐glass to the ferromagnetic transition (RSG–F) at T k = 45 K. This RSG–F transition was proven by an ac magnetic susceptibility measurement, appearing at T = 30 K. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Luminescence investigation of ion milled CdTe
Authors: Izhnin I. , Korbutyak D. , Pociask M. , Savchyn V.
Published: March 2006

Ion milling effects on CdTe single crystal and MOCVD p ‐CdxHg1–xTe/GaAS multi‐layer hetero‐structures with thick CdTe passivation layer the technology of such diodes are considered. It was revealed that CdTe (1 µm thick) passivation layer displayed the protective properties regarding ion milling action on active p ‐CdxHg1–xTe layer. Electrical measurements did not display the formation of any n ‐type layers in ion milled CdTe samples. Cathodoluminescence spectra of ion milled CdTe samples indicated some reconstruction of native defects in tellurium and cadmium sub‐lattices. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Few‐electron systems in a quantum dot in a magnetic field: the Wigner molecule and paired electron phases
Authors: Avetisyan A. A. , Moulopoulos K.
Published: March 2006

We have developed a variational many‐body description for few‐electron systems in a parabolic quantum dot in an external magnetic field. The ground state energy of the electronic system has been theoretically investigated in a broad range of magnetic fields. The possibility of existence of a spin‐singlet paired state in a QD in an external magnetic field is discussed. Analytical expressions for the spin‐singlet phase and for the Wigner phase in a QD have been obtained and studied as a function of the magnetic field and QD confinement. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Fabrication of low dimensional structures of ZnSe and ZnO by thermal and mechanical methods
Authors: Miroiu F. , Fernández P. , Piqueras J.
Published: March 2006

Fabrication of low dimensional structures of II–VI compounds as nanoparticles and elongated structures, such as nanowires or nanotubes, is a subject of increased interest due to their potential use in different technological applications. The aim of this work is the obtention of low dimensional structures of ZnSe and ZnO by thermal deposition and by mechanical milling and to study their electronic and optical properties, which are often different from those of the corresponding bulk materials and may find applications in nanoscale electronics and optics. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Luminescence studies of heat treatment influence on size distribution of CdTe nanocrystals
Authors: Krylyuk S. G. , Strelchuk V. V. , Kalytchuk S. M. , Korbutyak D. V. , Valakh M. Ya. , Khalavka Yu. B. , Feychuk P. I. , Shcherbak L. P.
Published: March 2006

Variations in absorption and emission spectra induced by thermal treatment are reported for aqueous solutions of thiol‐stabilized CdTe nanocrystals with different Cd2+:Te2– molar ratios. Heating of colloids was shown to result in appearance of two photoluminescence lines that were assigned to two ensembles of nanocrystals with different mean diameters. Effect of heat treatment on size distribution, absorption and emission properties, and stability of nanocrystals with various Cd2+:Te2– molar ratios is discussed in the terms of different coverage of the nanocrystal surfaces with tellurium atoms (ions?) and with thioglycolic acid molecules. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Composition control of ZnSSeO quaternary alloys grown on GaP
Authors: Nabetani Y. , Ito Y. , Kamisawa K. , Kato T. , Matsumoto T. , Hirai T.
Published: March 2006

ZnSSeO quaternary alloys were grown on GaP substrates by molecular beam epitaxy and the group VI compositions were controlled. Reductions of the supply amounts of Se and S both increase the O concentration. S concentration were decreased by the decrease of S supply and increased by the decrease of Se supply. ZnSSeO alloys lattice‐matched to GaP were obtained with high O and S concentrations. Dominant peaks were observed at the near band edge in the photoluminescence spectra. The band gap energies were shifted according to the group VI compositions. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)