bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Milking is a high-risk job for young females
Authors: Stål M , Moritz U , Gustafsson B , Johnsson B
Published: May 2023

The prevalence of and the impact of selected factors on self-reported musculoskeletal complaints in Swedish female milkers with special reference to symptoms in the upper extremities were investigated using data from mail-in surveys. An agricultural study group was formed of three subgroups: 161 active milkers, 108 non-milkers and 62 ex-milkers, women who had been milkers earlier but were no longer doing that kind of work. In the course of the analysis these subgroups were compared with each other and also, separately or in combinations, with a non-agricultural population consisting of 166 nursing assistants. Problems in the upper extremities were significantly more common in the agricultural group than in the non-agricultural group. Milkers ran a higher risk of developing symptoms in the wrists and hands than non-milking women. Symptoms such as numbness, coldness in the wrists and white fingers were more common in all agricultural subgroups than in the non-agricultural group. Numbness and white fingers were related to vibration exposure in the ex-milker and the non-milker groups but not in the milker group. Psychosocial factors such as occupational well-being were not related to the occurrence of symptoms. Milking in a modernized barn gave fewer problems in elbows than milking in a traditional barn. Milkers who had received ergonomic instruction on how to work in order to reduce muscle stress had fewer problems in the elbow region than those who had received no such information.
Effects of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation on H-reflex and spinal spasticity
Authors: Goulet G , Arsenault AB , Bourbonnais D , Laramée MT , Lepage Y
Published: May 2023

The purpose of this study was to investigate the short-term effects of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS; 99 Hz; 250 ms pulses) on H-reflex and spinal spasticity. Considering the reflex hyperexcitability commonly displayed in spinal cord-injured subjects, it was hypothesized that repetitive low threshold afferent stimulation would have an inhibitory effect on the triceps surae H-reflexes which could also be reflected by a decrease in plantarflexor spasticity. Clonus, Achilles tendon reflex and modified Ashworth evaluations were performed on 14 spinal cord-injured subjects prior to and after 30 minutes' application of TENS. Non-parametric statistical analyses (n = 14; alpha = 0.05) failed to reveal significant effects of TENS on H-reflex amplitude. However, there was a significant decrease in scores for the Achilles tendon reflex and the modified Ashworth test. The clonus score decreased in most subjects post-TENS, although not in a statistically significant manner. The present pilot results thus suggest that TENS appears to be effective in reducing spinal spasticity, as measured clinically.
Katz Index of Independence in ADL. Reliability and Validity in Short-Term Care
Authors: Brorsson B , Asberg KH
Published: May 2023

This article deals with the Katz Index of Independence in Activities of Daily Living and presents a study of its reliability and validity carried out at a Department of Internal Medicine in Sweden. Enrolled nurses assessed independently 100 aged patients. Scalability and interobserver variability were tested with Guttman scale-analysis. The results indicated that the activities are ranked according to a cumulative scale and that the index is reliable. Patients independent in ADL had shorter hospitalization and were discharged home more often than were the dependent patients. This indicates that the scale is valid. One year later most dependent patients were either dead or living in institutions: thus the index has a predictive potential. The systematic errors of scale were used to refine the index for use in short-term care. It is recommended as a basic measure of functional ability among aged abled or disabled patients also in short-term care.
Compression Bandage in the Treatment of Ankle Sprains. A Comparative Prospective Study
Authors: Linde F , Hvass I , Jürgensen U , Madsen F
Published: May 2023

The value of a compression bandage applied for 4 days following ankle sprains was assessed in a comparative study. The effect of the treatment was evaluated by changes in an inflammatory score based on a combination of subjective (pain, function) and objective (swelling, limitation of movement, pain on passive movement) factors. The study included two consecutive series each of 50 patients treated with a compression bandage, and untreated. There was no significant difference in the reduction of the inflammatory score from start to the fourth day (0. 5 less than p less than 0. 6) or from start to the eighth day (0. 1 less than p less than 0. 2) between the group treated with compression bandage and the untreated group. Analysis of the individual factors included in the inflammatory score demonstrated no difference in the course of pain, function, swelling, or limitation of movement between the two groups.
Prevalence of Symptoms and Signs of Joint Impairment at Age 79
Authors: Bergström G , Bjelle A , Sorensen LB , Sundh V , Svanborg A
Published: May 2023

The prevalence of back and joint impairments was studied in a representative subsample of 77 women and 57 men aged 79. Forty-six per cent of the subjects had no history of back or joint complaints. Thirty-two per cent reported current back pains while 50% stated they never experienced such pains. Back pains (past or present) were localized in the lumbar region predominantly (40%), and were almost constantly present in 8% of the subjects. The spinal mobility remained acceptable for function of the activities of daily living (ADL) in the majority of the subjects. Thirty-six per cent of the subjects had past or present complaints from the joints of the extremities, predominantly of the knee, shoulder or hip joints. Physical signs of joint disorders as deformities, swelling or tenderness were rare except for enlargement of distal interphalangeal joints (right hand: females 38%, males 14%). Restricted range of motion (ROM) in one or several joints was found in one fifth (i. e. , knee joints) to two thirds (i. e. , hip joints). No significant gender differences were observed with the exception of the thoracolumbar ROM that was more frequently restricted in males. Severe restriction of separate movements (to less than 50% of ROM) was, generally, infrequent (0-8% of the subjects) although advanced impairment of hip inward rotation was found in 14% of the subjects. Restricted ROM associated with joint complaints was found in 2-11% of the subjects (i. e. , knee joints 2%, shoulder joints 9%, hip joints 11%). A considerable proportion of 79-year-olds, thus, had some--though usually limited--restriction of joint ROM.
Walking After Stroke. Measurement and Recovery Over the First 3 Months
Authors: Wade DT , Wood VA , Heller A , Maggs J , Langton Hewer R
Published: May 2023

Sixty surviving patients had their walking ability and speed assessed regularly over the first 3 months after an acute stroke. Sixty-four matched controls were studied to allow categorisation of speed as 'slow' or 'normal'. Fourteen patients never had any significant loss of walking speed; fifteen patients never recovered the ability to walk and one patient remained dependent upon verbal support. Of the 30 showing significant recovery, only 10 regained normal speed, and 8 remained dependent upon a physical aid at 3 months. Plotting individual recovery curves of walking speed over time showed the wide range of change which may be expected. It is argued that timing of gait over 10 metres is a valid reliable measure that is currently underused.
Lung Function in Relation to Thoracic Spinal Mobility and Kyphosis
Authors: Mellin G , Harjula R
Published: May 2023

Mobility and kyphosis of the thoracic spine were correlated with lung function in 185 men and 87 women not suffering from respiratory disease. Curvatures of the spine were measured goniometrically with inclinometers and a compass, and lung function by spirometry. Vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in 1 sec had significant positive correlations only with forward and lateral flexion. The strongest correlations were with forward flexion (r = 0.16 to 0.24, p less than 0.05). The results and possible advantages of mobilizing the thoracic spine in pathological conditions of the lungs and the spine are discussed.
Social, Functional, and Neuropsychological Determinants of the Psychiatric Symptoms of Stroke Patients Receiving Rehabilitation and Living at Home
Authors: Weddell RA
Published: May 2023

In view of the strong evidence supporting the hypothesis that high Expressed Emotion of a key relative contributes to relapse in psychiatric patients, methods used in Expressed Emotion research were applied in an investigation of psychiatric disorder in stroke patients receiving hospital based rehabilitation and support. Patient mood in 37 stroke patients was related to the critical attitude of a key relative. Patient depression may also have been associated with severity of dysphasia, but no link was found between patient mood and the other measures of cognitive or physical deficit used in this study. Psychiatric distress in the key relative had a rather different causal basis. Relatives' psychiatric disorders were associated with physical burden, cognitive deficit, and severity of dysphasia. This study suggests that, when the patient is dependent for self-care, rehabilitation-assisted recovery may alleviate relative distress more than patient distress.
The Cumulative Structure of Personal and Instrumental ADL. A Study of Elderly People in a Health Service District
Authors: H Asberg K , Sonn U
Published: May 2023

Katz' Index of ADL has been supplemented by five well-defined instrumental activities, namely cooking, washing, transportation, cleaning, and shopping. Eighty-five persons, mainly elderly, who had consecutively consulted a district occupational therapist, were assessed in their homes in order to study the reliability, the scalability, and the validity of the expanded index. The inter-observer reliability was high. The coefficient of scalability was well above the acceptance level, indicating construct validity. No person was dependent in personal ADL and totally independent in instrumental ADL. Persons who were dependent in both personal and instrumental ADL were older and lived in sheltered accommodation more often than persons who were dependent only in instrumental ADL, indicating external validity. This study shows that there was a cumulative relationship between certain well-defined instrumental activities and between personal and instrumental activities. This supplemented index can be useful for assessing and differentiating the need for personal assistance and homecare among disabled elderly people.
Standing Balance in Healthy Subjects. Evaluation of a Quantitative Test Battery on a Force Platform
Authors: Ekdahl C , B Jarnlo G , I Andersson S
Published: May 2023

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.
A Wheelchair Ergometer With a Device for Isokinetic Torque Measurement
Authors: Samuelsson K , Larsson H , Tropp H
Published: May 2023

A wheelchair ergometer has been developed for the study of wheelchair work. At each propulsion the peak torque can be examined, and there is an opportunity to directly study angular amplitude, power output, work etc. The physical capacity of the subject as well as the importance of chair adjustments upon performance can be evaluated.
Isokinetic Muscle Torque in the Dorsiflexors of the Ankle in Children 6-15 Years of Age. Normal Values and Evaluation of the Method
Authors: Bäckman E , Oberg B
Published: May 2023

Isokinetic muscle torque of the dorsiflexors of the ankle was tested in 137 children 6-15 years old. Reference values in different age groups are given for girls and boys separately. Generally, peak torque values increased with age. However, the developed torque/kg bodyweight showed no significant difference in 15-year-old girls compared to 12-year-old girls. For prediction of normal torque the best parameters are age, weight and height. The maximal torque and work values generally increased with increasing weight and height. The prediction was not improved by adding factors like length of the lower leg, calf circumference and length of the foot. In the youngest age groups, the stronger leg, in the highest velocities, was on the dominant side, while in the older groups the strongest leg, at least in slow velocities, was on the non-dominant side. The boys seem to have their most intensive force development between 12 and 15 years while this occurs earlier in girls.
Disability and handicap in late poliomyelitis
Authors: Einarsson G , Grimby G
Published: May 2023

The impact of long-standing polio sequelae in terms of disability and handicap was studied in 41 patients (17 men and 24 women, mean age 54 years). Twenty-nine (71%) of these met the criteria for post-polio syndrome. The Katz' ADL index, the Functional Status Questionnaire (FSQ), selected questions concerning social needs and support and the WHO ICIDH-Classification of handicaps were used. A substantial impact on intermediate (secondary or instrumental) ADL was a consistent finding, most severely affecting the quality of mobility. This emphasizes needs for individual rehabilitation services including transportation, walking and domestic aids.
Effects of prolonged muscle stretch on reflex and voluntary muscle activations in children with spastic cerebral palsy
Authors: Tremblay F , Malouin F , Richards CL , Dumas F
Published: May 2023

We studied the short term effects of a single session of prolonged muscle stretch (PMS) on reflex and voluntary muscle activations in 22 children with spastic cerebral palsy (CP) assigned to an experimental (n = 12) and a control group (n = 10). Children of the experimental group underwent PMS of the triceps surae (TS) by standing with the feet dorsiflexed on a tilt-table for 30 min, whereas children of the control group were kept at rest. The effects were determined by measuring the associated changes in torque and in electromyographic (EMG) activity of the TS and tibialis anterior (TA) muscles during both passive ankle movements and maximal static voluntary contractions. The results indicate that PMS led to reduced spasticity in ankle muscles as demonstrated by the significant reductions (p less than 0.05) of the neuromuscular responses (torque and EMG) to passive movement. These inhibitory effects lasted up to 35 min after cessation of PMS. In addition, the capacity to voluntarily activate the plantar flexors was significantly (p less than 0.05) increased post-PMS, but the capacity to activate the dorsiflexors was apparently not affected. These findings suggest that repeated sessions of PMS may have beneficial effects in the management of spasticity in children with CP.
A controlled study on the outcome of inpatient and outpatient treatment of low back pain. Part III. Long-term follow-up of pain, disability, and compliance
Authors: Härkäpää K , Mellin G , Järvikoski A , Hurri H
Published: May 2023

The long-term outcome results of inpatient and outpatient treatment of low back pain (LBP) were studied in 476 subjects (aged 35-54, 63% men) randomly assigned to three study groups: inpatients (n = 157), outpatients (n = 159), and controls (n = 160). The study included changes in the severity of low back pain, grade and disability, compliance with self-care, data on disability pensions, and days of sickness allowance during a 2.5-year follow-up period. These variables were used as outcome criteria. Pain and disability had decreased significantly in the two treated groups up to the 3-month follow-up. LBP was still a little slighter in the inpatients at the 1.5-year and 22-month follow-ups, but there were no significant differences between the groups in disability caused by LBP. The refresher programme carried out 1.5 years after the first one did not bring about as clear short-term improvement in pain and disability as the first treatment. During the whole 2.5-year follow-up compliance with self-care was better in the two treated groups, especially in the inpatients. Days of sickness allowance had increased somewhat more in the controls than in the inpatients during the follow-up. No differences between the groups were found in the number of disability pensions granted.
Pulsed ultrasound does not improve healing of venous ulcers
Authors: Lundeberg T , Nordström F , Brodda-Jansen G , Eriksson SV , Kjartansson J , Samuelson UE
Published: May 2023

A controlled study of the effects of pulsed ultrasound was carried out in conjunction with a standard treatment for healing chronic leg ulcers on 44 patients divided randomly into two groups. All patients received standard treatment (paste impregnated bandage and a self-adhesive elastic bandage) plus placebo-ultrasound or pulsed ultrasound (1:9, 0.5 watt/cm2 at 1 MHz, for 10 min) 3 days a week for 4 weeks, thereafter twice weekly for 4 weeks and once weekly for the following 4 weeks. Percentage healed ulcer area and comparison of percentage healed ulcers were examined after 4, 8 and 12 weeks. There were no significant differences in the proportion of healed ulcers or ulcer area in the pulsed ultrasound group as compared with the placebo group.
The increase in energy cost of walking with an immobilized knee or an unstable ankle
Authors: Mattsson E , Broström LA
Published: May 2023

The effect of an immobilized knee joint or of an unstable ankle joint on the walking capacity has been assessed with 50 walking tests in ten healthy subjects. The knee joint was immobilized in extension with a standard splint and an unstable ankle joint was simulated by a modified shoe. A significant decrease in convenient walking speed was found. The energy cost of walking as assessed by oxygen cost at a convenient speed was significantly increased both with an immobilized knee (23%) and with an unstable ankle (10%), compared to normal condition of the subjects. Implications for the management of patients with similar joint disorders are discussed.
Comparison of TENS treatments in hemiplegic shoulder pain
Authors: Leandri M , Parodi CI , Corrieri N , Rigardo S
Published: May 2023

The aim of this paper is to evaluate the effectiveness of high-intensity versus low-intensity transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) and versus placebo for treatment of hemiplegic shoulder pain. Three groups of 20 patients each (A, B, C) were studied. In group A high-intensity TENS was delivered at 3 times the sensory threshold with frequency of 100 Hz; in group B low-intensity TENS was delivered at the sensory threshold with frequency of 100 Hz. Group C received placebo stimulation. The treatment protocol consisted of 12 sessions (4 weeks). Before treatment, at the end of it and one month after, passive range of motion (PROM) for flexion, extension, abduction and external rotation were evaluated. Statistically significant improvements of PROMs were recorded for group A, but not for groups B or C.
Professional role and autonomy in physiotherapy. A study of Swedish physiotherapists
Authors: Bergman B
Published: May 2023

A study of 163 physiotherapists' conception of their professional role and autonomy and the implications for their work has been completed. About half (55%) felt that physicians and other staff members primarily expected them to act as independent professionals, while about one-third (34%) felt that they were expected to undertake treatment after referral from or discussion with the physician. Most physiotherapists (86%) were firmly in control of their treatment methods, but had somewhat restricted freedom in deciding whom to treat, and when to terminate treatment. The majority (96%) regarded their professional tasks as being important for others. Few (14%) had carried out any systematic evaluation of their methods and results--hence few obtained any objective feedback from their work, which is believed to affect the quality of work, as well as work motivation and job satisfaction.
Pulsed ultrasound treatment in lateral epicondylalgia
Authors: Haker E , Lundeberg T
Published: May 2023

This study was carried out to explore the pain-alleviating effect of pulsed ultrasound in lateral epicondylalgia. Forty-five patients were consecutively assigned at random to two groups for pulsed ultrasound or placebo. The parameters for ultrasound were 1 MHz; 1:4; 1 W/cm2. Each session was for 10 min, two to three times weekly, ten treatments in all. Follow-ups were done after three and twelve months. The statistical analysis showed no significant differences in relation to subjective or objective outcomes between the groups after the treatment period or at the follow-ups. Our results do not support the use of pulsed ultrasound treatment with the chosen parameters in lateral epicondylalgia.
Low back pain--correspondence between questionnaire, interview and clinical examination
Authors: Holmström E , Moritz U
Published: May 2023

The aim of this study was to analyse the correspondence between answers to a questionnaire about trouble from the musculoskeletal system, answers in a personal interview and clinical findings indicating low back disorder. The questionnaire was answered by 1,773 construction workers. Out of those, 206 workers underwent interview and clinical examination. Among those who reported no lifetime LBT in the questionnaire 63% gave the same report in the personal interview and those were all assessed negative at a blind clinical examination. Of those reporting current LBT in the interview 80% (47/59) were clinically positive. The clinical criteria used in the examination seemed to indicate lumbar painful structures. Answers to a question about functional impairment were in conformity with clinical findings. As regards answers to a question about frequency of pain and a question, in the specific Nordic questionnaire for the low back, concerning inability to do normal work the correlation to clinical findings was less apparent. Reported inability to do normal work in the questionnaire corresponded only to 43% with reported sick-leave in the interview.
The kinematics of idiopathic gait disorder. A comparison with healthy young and elderly females
Authors: Wall JC , Hogan DB , Turnbull GI , Fox RA
Published: May 2023

In this study the kinematic gait parameters of healthy young and elderly subjects were compared with those of a group of patients with idiopathic gait disorder of the elderly (IGDE), a condition characterized by dysfunctional walking for which no underlying cause can be determined. The velocity and the temporal/distance gait kinematics were measured for self-selected fast, medium and slow speeds of walking. The elderly walk with a more cautious gait pattern than younger adults. This pattern is characterized by a slow walking speed and a reduced single support phase, with shorter but more frequent strides, and is even more marked in persons with IGDE. The slower the walking speed the more cautious this pattern becomes. The patients with IGDE not only walk far slower than a group of healthy age matched individuals but the range of speeds, from self-selected slow to fast, is much reduced and does not overlap that of the healthy elderly. With objective gait measurements this group might be better identified.
Standardization of grip strength measurements. Effects on repeatability and peak force
Authors: Spijkerman DC , Snijders CJ , Stijnen T , Lankhorst GJ
Published: May 2023

The aim of our study was to test grip strength and assess the effects of various degrees of standardization on repeatability and level of peak force. Sixteen healthy persons and eight subjects with an impaired hand function have been tested using a strain-gauge dynamometer. We compared four measurement protocols: (A) the subject is free to assume a comfortable arm position; (B) the subject is also free to assume a comfortable arm position but in addition a challenging stimulus to exceed a previous maximal effort, is given; (C) the arm was held in a predescribed and partly fixated position, as recommended by the American Society of Hand Therapists; (D) the position of the dynamometer is standardized using two reference points both on the hand and on the dynamometer. We found high test-retest reliabilities for each measurement protocol without any significant difference. There were, however, significant differences in strength level. With measurements according to protocol B the highest peak values were noted. Since the measurement protocol B combined good reliability with realistic peak forces, this procedure seems most suitable for grip strength measurements.
Reproducibility of nine tests to measure spinal mobility and trunk muscle strength
Authors: Hyytiäinen K , Salminen JJ , Suvitie T , Wickström G , Pentti J
Published: May 2023

The reproducibility of nine back function tests suitable for use in the occupational health service was determined in 30 male employees. The correlation of three tests made with a tape measure--forward bending, modified Schober, and side bending--was high in both intra- and inter-observer comparisons (r = 0.82-0.96). Immediate repetition of the testing procedure improved the performance in the forward and side bending tests. The reproducibility was also good for the tests of dynamic (K = 0.57-0.78) and endurance (r = 0.90-0.96) strength of the abdominal muscles and quite good for the test of endurance strength of the back muscles (r = 0.74-0.80). The differences between the examiners must be taken into account in the modified Schober test, and in testing the flexibility of the hip flexors and hamstrings and the endurance strength of the back muscles.
Postocclusive reactive hyperemia and thermal response in the skin microcirculation of subjects with spinal cord injury
Authors: Schubert V , Fagrell B
Published: May 2023

The response of skin blood cell flux (SBF) to locally applied pressure was evaluated by laser Doppler fluxmetry over the sacrum and the gluteus maximus muscle in twenty patients with spinal cord injuries (SCI)-ten with tetraplegia, ten with paraplegia-and ten healthy subjects. The SCI patients were further divided into two subgroups, one with sensation and the other without sensation over the sacrum area. The SBF over the sacrum, without applied pressure, showed somewhat higher values among the patients. The ten paraplegic patients (p less than 0.05) and the subgroup of patients without sensation over the sacrum (p less than 0.05) showed the highest values. Occlusion of the SBF was reached at a lower external skin pressure over the sacrum than over the gluteus maximus muscle in the group with spinal cord injuries (p less than 0.01). During the postocclusive reactive hyperemia we found a much shorter time to peak SBF over the gluteus muscle for the patients compared to the healthy subjects (p less than 0.01). In the subgroup of patients without sensation over the sacrum a prolonged time to peak SBF was found (p less than 0.01) over the sacrum compared to patients with sensation and to healthy subjects. The increase of the SBF during postocclusive hyperemia response was lower over both the sacrum and the gluteus maximus muscle areas in the patients with spinal cord injuries (p less than 0.01).
Benefits of sport and physical activity for the disabled: implications for the individual and for society
Authors: Shephard RJ
Published: May 2023

An increase of physical activity is commonly recommended to those with physical disability, but it is necessary to distinguish competitive sport from fitness programmes, remedial gymnastics and active recreation. Potential benefits of enhanced activity are reviewed. Likely psychological gains include an improvement of mood-state, with a reduction of anxiety and depression, an increase of self-esteem and feelings of greater self-efficacy. Sociological gains include new experiences, new friendships, and a countering of stigmatization. Perceived health is improved, and in a more long-term perspective there is a reduced risk of many chronic diseases. Finally, there is a greater likelihood of employment, with less absenteeism and enhanced productivity. Both the health and the industrial benefits have a potential to yield cost savings that could make an important contribution toward the expense of suitably adapted physical activity programmes. It is concluded that the physically disabled should be encouraged to engage in physical activity, although further large-scale longitudinal studies are needed to determine the optimal type of programme for such individuals
Vocational rehabilitation in northern Sweden. I. A socio-demographic description
Authors: Eklund M , Fugl-Meyer AR
Published: May 2023

Some socio-demographic variables were registered by structured interview in a consecutive series (n = 149) of subjects referred for vocational rehabilitation with a diagnosis of somatic disease. Two years later the subjects were re-interviewed about current occupational and financial status. Initially 43% received sickness allowance and 18% unemployment compensation, the remaining 39% were vocationally active. Almost 19% needed only technical aids to be able to return to/remain in work; an intervention which was used significantly more often for the--relatively older--self-employed than for the rest of the sample. Two years later 80% of those who were vocationally active at the time of referral were still at work, the remaining 20% were undergoing training (11%) or were vocationally inactive (9%). Among those who were receiving sickness benefit/unemployment compensation at referral, 44% were at work and 20% were receiving education. Return to work after vocational inactivity was financially beneficial. It is concluded that vocational rehabilitation in Ume? had a fair rate of success. This may be due to the low rate of handicaps.
Trunk muscle strength and back muscle endurance in construction workers with and without low back disorders
Authors: Holmström E , Moritz U , Andersson M
Published: May 2023

The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that male workers exposed to heavy work and with no lifetime history of a low back disorder (group A) have better trunk muscle strength and back muscle endurance compared to male workers with the same work exposure but with a probable (group B) or definite low back disorder (group C). Group A (n = 42) was clinically negative on physical examination. Group B (n = 75) was clinically negative or uncertain and group C (n = 86) was clinically positive, with current or previous low back disorders occurring in both groups. Group A had a significantly higher mean intraindividual extension/flexion ratio, namely 1.29 versus 1.19, in group C. The mean values for maximum isometric trunk extension and flexion strength did not differ between the groups. The isometric trunk extensor endurance was significantly lower in group C than in both group A and group B
Low energy high frequency pulsed electromagnetic therapy for acute whiplash injuries. A double blind randomized controlled study.
Authors: Foley-Nolan D , Moore K , Codd M , Barry C , O'Connor P , Coughlan RJ
Published: May 2023

The standard treatment of acute whiplash injuries (soft collar and analgesia) is frequently unsuccessful. Pulsed electromagnetic therapy PEMT (as pulsed 27 MHz) has been shown to have pro-healing and anti-inflammatory effects. This study examines the effect of PEMT on the acute whiplash syndrome. One half of the 40 patients entering the study received active PEMT collars: the other half facsimile (placebo). All patients were given instructions to wear the collar for eight hours a day at home and advised to mobilise their necks. At 2 and 4 weeks the actively treated group had significantly improved (p less than 0.05) in terms of pain (visual analogue scale). By chance movement scores for the PEMT group were significantly worse at entry to the study than the control group (p less than 0.05). At 12 weeks they had become significantly better (p less than 0.05). PEMT as described is safe for domiciliary use and this study suggests that PEMT has a beneficial effect in the management of the acute whiplash injury.
Comparison of the Jamar dynamometer and the Martin vigorimeter for grip strength measurements in a healthy elderly population.
Authors: Desrosiers J , Hébert R , Bravo G , Dutil E
Published: May 2023

Grip strength is considered to be a good indicator of upper limb strength. The Jamar dynamometer and the Martin vigorimeter are two instruments frequently used to assess grip strength in clinical and research settings. The purpose of this study was to compare these instruments for assessing grip strength in 360 people aged 60 to 94 years, randomly selected from the electoral list. Anthropometric data were also collected. Data analyses were done using the maximum value on 3 trials with each instrument. Although the Martin vigorimeter is a pressure measure implying a dynamic movement as opposed to the static strength measure of the Jamar dynamometer, results indicate a very high correlation between the two measures. Grip strength measured by the Jamar dynamometer is even more dependent on hand anthropometry than measurements with the Martin vigorimeter.
Sensory changes associated with severe ankle sprain
Authors: Bullock-Saxton JE
Published: May 2023

An intact afferent nervous system is important in providing the feedback necessary for effective motor control. Joint injury may influence afferent feedback and, if the lower limb is involved, lead to a decrease in stability. Accordingly, the association between severe ankle sprain and local sensory deficit was examined. Measurements of vibration perception, two point discrimination and balance in one legged standing were made in subjects who had sustained a previous severe unilateral ankle sprain and in subjects with no history of lower limb injury. Comparisons between the two groups showed that subjects with previous severe ankle sprain had sensory deficits in all measured variables between the injured and non-injured sides. Such differences between sides was not apparent in the non-injured group. This study highlights that local sensory deficits are associated with severe ankle sprain.
Bone metabolism in hemiplegic patients
Authors: Van Ouwenaller C , Uebelhart D , Chantraine A
Published: May 2023

Bone metabolism has been assessed in 36 hemiplegic patients (18-77 years), 26 with CVA and 10 with head injuries. The results show an increase of serum calcium and phosphorous levels in the first month as well as hydroxyprolinuria. The radiological examination showed signs of demineralisation, as well as single photon absorptiometry of both arms. Bone scan by 99Te demonstrated a hypercaptation in both paralysed limbs. From the 36 patients, 17 had a 47Ca kinetic study which showed an average of normal values as far as bone accretion (Vo+) is concerned. However, the two youngest patients (18 and 32 years) had a high value of this parameter. The urinary calcium excretion (Vu) and the fecal calcium excretion (Vf) was also increased in the 17 patients. The bone resorption measured by Vo- was also high at the beginning of the study and significantly decreased 12 months later. Our observations show that neurologic osteoporosis of the hemiplegic patient is related to an unbalance between the synthesis and the degradation of a bone whose metabolism is active. Related to the determination of the intramedullary pressure and intraosseous phlebography, it seems that this resorption is due to a venous stasis. This circulatory modification regime can influence cell differentiation and probably be responsible in a way for this osteoporosis.
Torque-velocity relation and muscle fibre characteristics of foot dorsiflexors after long-term overuse of residual muscle fibres due to prior polio or L5 root lesion
Authors: Tollbäck A , Knutsson E , Borg J , Borg K , Jakobsson F
Published: May 2023

Isokinetic foot dorsiflexion strength and muscle biopsy data from eight patients with overuse of tibialis anterior muscle (TA) fibres due to weakness after prior polio or L5 root lesion were compared to data from age and sex matched, healthy subjects. Concentric peak torque at an angular velocity of 30 degrees/s was 6-24 Nm in the patients and 15-34 Nm in the controls (p < 0.01). Muscle biopsies from TA showed a significantly higher proportion of type 1 fibres in the patients as compared to the controls (p < 0.005). The type 1 fibres in the patients had a significantly larger cross-sectional area than in the controls (p < 0.005). The type 1 fibre proportion and relative area were inversely correlated to the relative concentric torque produced at 180 degrees/s (p < 0.05) and 240 degrees/s (p < 0.05) compared to that produced at 30 degrees/s in the controls but not in the patients. However, the relative concentric torque produced at 180 degrees/s and 240 degrees/s compared to that produced at 30 degrees/s was not significantly different in the patients and the controls. This indicates that the contractile properties of the overused muscle fibres do not change in parallel with the histochemical fibre type.
Coverage by four information services of the core journals of rehabilitation and related topics
Authors: Roberts D
Published: May 2023

In this study, three serials databases were used to identify core journals in rehabilitation and related areas. Simple strategies were used to search SERLINE (Serials Online, National Library of Medicine), Ulrich's International Periodicals Directory and SACHET (British Library serials database). Coverage of the journals identified by four secondary information services was then studied. These were Medline, Excerpta Medica, CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health) and CATS (Current Awareness Topics Services, British Library). The results confirmed and extended the findings of earlier work: the number of core journals in rehabilitation is very large and their coverage by information services is very selective. Of the services studied here, CATS seemed to be most comprehensive for the journals identified.
A comparison of different psychosocial questionnaires in patients with myocardial infarction
Authors: Wiklund I , Welin C
Published: May 2023

In a consecutive study of 140 patients investigated one month after myocardial infarction (MI), a battery of American and English questionnaires was used to measure depression, anxiety, sleep problems, health locus of control and perceived health. These measures were compared with a well-documented generic questionnaire, the Nottingham Health Profile (NHP), and a similarly well-documented mood scale, the Mood Adjective Check List (MACL). There was close agreement among all measures depicting anxiety and tension. The concordance between the measures of anxiety states and depression was lower. Depression and sleep problems seem to constitute separate concepts, since they are not as highly related to the other measures of anxiety. Because psychosocial factors are important measures for the outcome after an infarction, accurate assessments of these variables are required. Further research is clearly warranted to clarify the complicated interaction between psychosocial constructs and to improve the methods used for their evaluation.
Utility of renal artery ultrasound for detecting stenosis or obstruction: A narrative review
Authors: Park Byung Kwan
Published: May 2023

Acute renal failure can result from many conditions, in which renal artery stenosis (RAS) or renal artery obstruction (RAO) can be corrected with appropriate interventional or surgical procedures. The renal artery can be directly depicted with currently available ultrasound (US) scanners. Therefore, we can determine if there is RAS or RAO in patients with poor renal function using renal artery US. However, there are few reports about the utility of renal artery US in excluding stenosis or obstruction. The purpose of this review is to show clinical applications and diagnostic pitfalls of renal artery US in detecting RAS or RAO.
PEMANFAATAN CITRA LANDSAT 8 UNTUK PEMETAAN PERUBAHAN PENGGUNAAN LAHAN DI DAERAH TERDAMPAK ERUPSI GUNUNGAPI SEMERU (4 DESEMBER 2021)
Authors:   Universitas Gajah Mada, Saputra Danang Maulana Arif
Published: May 2023

Dampak erupsi Gunung Semeru pada tanggal 4 Desember 2021 berupa abu vulkanik dan material lainnya dapat diamati secara visual dengan citra penginderaan jauh, dalam hal ini ialah citra resolusi menengah. Data yang digunakan dalam penelitian adalah citra satelit Landsat 8. Tujuan dari penelitian ini untuk mengetahui perubahan penggunaan lahan terdampak erupsi Gunung Semeru pada 4 Desember 2021. Metode penelitian yang digunakan untuk mendeteksi dampak luasan erupsi ialah dengan memanfaatkan transformasi indeks vegetasi berupa NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index), klasifikasi penutupan lahan menggunakan metode klasifikasi terbimbing (supervised classification) dan Maximum Likelihood. Berdasarkan Analisis NDVI, luas wilayah terdampak adalah 2354,24 Ha. Kawasan terdampak erupsi berada di 3 desa yaitu Desa Oro-oro ombo, Desa Supiturang dan Desa sumberwuluh. Perubahan Tutupan lahan didapatkan dari hasil korelasi antara data klasifikasi tutupan lahan pra erupsi dan pasca erupsi. Kelas tutupan lahan hutan sebelum erupsi mempunyai luas 994,33 Ha (42%) mengalami perubahan menjadi 689,54 (30,70%). Sedangkan kelas penggunana lahan Pertanian dan Sawah pada tahun 2021 sebelum erupsi mempunyai total luas 531,14 Ha (22,53%), pasca erupsi mengalami perubahan menjadi 137,45 Ha. Pada kelas penggunaan lahan pemukiman luas sebelum erupsi yaitu 50.62 Ha (3%) mengalami perubahan menjadi 7,18 Ha (0,45%).
PEMANFAATAN KONTEN TIKTOK SEBAGAI MEDIA KOMUNIKASI PEMASARAN DIGITAL SHOPPE AFFILIATE PADA AKUN TIKTOK “INDISYINDI”
Authors: Ramadhani Nia , Efni Salam Noor , Eldapi Yozani Ringgo
Published: May 2023

Utilizing content using shoppe affiliate allows a product to be better known and will sell well in the market, so that sellers and business people make Tiktok shoppe affiliate a digital marketing platform that is being widely used at this time. One of the online accounts that is active in producing Tiktok shoppe affiliate content as a digital marketing communication medium is the Tiktok account “Indisyindi. The purpose of this study is to determine the use of TikTok content as a digital marketing communication medium. This study uses a qualitative descriptive research method. Based on the results of the research and discussion, it is concluded that the utilization of Tiktok Content as a Digital Marketing Communication Media is in accordance with the circular of SOME concept. At the share stage, there are three important aspects that must be considered, namely, Participants use TikTok as a medium for spreading, Connect builds connections with their followers, and Build Trust provides reliable information about products. In the second stage, Optimize, there are three aspects that must be considered, such as listening to find out by utilizing the tiktok feature, learning how to upload content and building interactions, and taking part in authentic communications using hashtags, mentions and captions. At the Manage stage there are three important aspects that must be considered, namely, media monitoring sees audience feedback in the form of comments like the number of shares and saves, Real Time interaction interacts with the viewer or audience through live broadcasts, Quick response performs quick responses such as replying to comments from viewers or audience. At the Engage stage there are three important aspects that must be considered, namely, influencer relations have not done influencer relations, where is the audience doing research on creativity, and how do I reach them regularly uploading content.
Structure and Curricula of Business Education under New Normal (Student Centricity for Employability and Economic Growth in Pakistan)
Authors:   DHA Suffa University (DSU), Karachi, Pakistan, Ahmad Bashir , Salam Maawra ,   Bahria University Karachi Campus, Karachi, Pakistan, Ahmad Usman ,   DHA Suffa University (DSU), Karachi, Pakistan
Published: May 2023

Education is to serve a purpose otherwise it becomes meaningless. Since it creates awareness, therefore, has been the priority of mankind ever since their emergence and will continue to be so in times to come. Society gazes at the end result i.e., how well universities prepare the graduates for their professional lives. This notion decides the very purpose and foundation of any education system. Business education is to give skills to young entrepreneurs to run businesses, operate factories and manage organizations. This means objectives-based business education which is possible when there is perfect synch among business schools, corporate sector and society. In student centricity approach, the business schools need to produce graduates with corporate outlook who could develop enterprises. The main factors to produce professionals include curricula, faculty, infrastructure and above all vision of the business school. COVID-19 has given new experience to business schools i.e., operating under off-campus environments. Obviously, this ‘New Normal’ is different as entrepreneurial practices have been reshaped. This paper outlines curricula of business education to reemphasize employment of technology in education and its management. The study shall enable the business schools to harness the curricula with new realities of quality education and competitive skills. Accordingly, the study takes into account the stakeholders like students, faculty members, people from the corporate sector, parents, government officials and members from the civil society. Despite having different views, the stakeholders agree to the need of adopting different approaches for quality business education under ‘New Normal’.