bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Problem Solving and Time: Functions of Learning Style and Teaching Methods
Authors: Katz Noomi
Published: December 2014

The purpose of the two studies reported in this paper was first, to investigate the interaction between occupational therapy students' learning styles and teaching methods on their problem solving ability and the amount of time they needed to learn outside of class; and second, to replicate in Israel the original study conducted in the United States, to validate the findings in another culture. In support of the hypothesis, results from multiple regression analyses using problem solving and time as dependent variables showed significant interactions of teaching methods and individual learning styles in both studies. Occupational therapy students in “matched” conditions (reflective learning style in lectures and active learning style in group discussions) performed better on problem solving measures and needed less time to learn outside class than those in the opposite “mismatched” conditions. The results also indicate that to achieve criterion level in a specific subject matter, time is used to compensate for “mismatch” of individual aptitudes and learning environment. Implications of the findings on planning learning programs are discussed.
Occupational Therapists' Accuracy in Predicting Sensory, Perceptual-Cognitive, and Functional Recovery Post-Stroke
Authors: Korner-Bitensky Nicol , Mayo Nancy E. , Poznanski Simma G.
Published: December 2014

The purpose of this study was to determine the degree to which occupational therapists correctly predicted sensory, perceptual-cognitive, and functional outcome for stroke patients admitted to a rehabilitation hospital. Therapists used an adapted form of the occupational therapy portion of the Patient Evaluation Conference System, a 12-item assessment measured on an 8-point scale. At admission, therapists performed initial assessments on 85 patients and assigned goal scores; before discharge patients were re-evaluated and their final scores were determined. The accuracy with which therapists correctly predicted the final score ranged from 52% to 76%. Therapists, when they erred, were more likely to predict a final score higher than the one the patient actually achieved (i.e., they were optimistic). Age of the patient, side of lesion, staff experience, and initial Adapted Patient Evaluation Conference System score were not associated with correctly predicting final score. Patients were categorized as dependent (scores of “0” to “4”) or independent (scores of “5” to “7”). The sensitivity and specificity of a goal of independence or dependence were investigated. Almost all patients who were independent at final evaluation had been correctly identified at the time of inital evaluation (the sensitivity of a goal of independence ranged from 95% to 100%). Also, patients predicted to remain dependent did so (the predictive value of a goal of dependence ranged from 91% to 100%). Occupational therapy departments should consider establishing procedures to determine and monitor the accuracy of the goals therapists set.
Test-Retest Reliability and Day-to-Day Variability of an Isometric Grip Strength Test Using the Work Simulator
Authors: Trossman Patricia B. , Suleski Karen Butler , Li Ping-Wu
Published: December 2014

The test-retest reliability and the day-to-day variability of an isometric grip strength test using the power grip attachment of the Baltimore Therapeutic Equipment Work Simulator were investigated for three methods of determining a criterion score. These methods were the mean of three trials, the mean of the best two of three trials, and the best score of three trials. Subjects included 30 right-dominant males and females, 20 to 45 years old. The method with the highest test-retest reliability and the lowest day-to-day variability was the mean of three trials. The reliability coefficients were .978 for the right hand and .987 for the left hand. The day-to-day variability was 4.99% for the right hand and 3.04% for the left hand. Based on the results of this study, it is recommended that the mean of three trials should be used to determine the criterion score when evaluating isometric grip strength with the work simulator.
Biofeedback-Assisted Relaxation Training for Adult and Pediatric Headache Disorders
Authors: Engel Joyce M. , Rapoff Michael A.
Published: December 2014

Headaches are one of the most common somatic complaints among adults and children. This study investigated the effects of thermal biofeedback-assisted relaxation training on adult and child tension, migraine, and mixed (migraine and tension) headache disorders. A multiple baseline design across three adult and four child participants was used and multiple outcomes were assessed including participants' records of headache duration and severity, medication intake, and downtime because of headaches. To corroborate participants' records of headache activity, family members independently recorded headache occurrences, and medication intake was corroborated by investigators' pill counts of headache medications.

After treatment, reductions in headache duration and severity, downtime, and medication intake were noted for all participants, with four of seven participants headache-free at 1-year follow-up. The results are compared with previous studies and methodological issues are discussed, particularly the need to corroborate self-report measures in headache studies.
A Comparison of Service Provision Models in School-Based Occupational Therapy Services: A Pilot Study
Authors: Dunn Winnie
Published: December 2014

Occupational therapists provide services to children within a number of service provision models. Although the literature discusses these service provision models, there have been very few investigations to identify the effects of these models. This pilot study compared the provision of direct serice (DS) and collaborative consultation (C) in 14 preschoolers and kindergarteners randomly assigned to interventions. Individualized Education Program goal attainment was used as the measure of educationally relevant child outcomes. Therapists and teachers completed an attitude survey before and after participating in the study. Pilot study results indicate that although children in both conditions achieved a similar percentage of IEP goals, teachers in the C condition reported much larger occupational therapy contributions to IEP goals and had more positive comments on the attitude scale. Results suggest that similar levels of goal attainment can be achieved in direct service and consultation, and that the relationships that develop between therapists and teachers may lead to a more positive overall view of the learning environment and the contribution of occupational therapy to that environment. Further study is needed to identify additional service provision factors that contribute to successful program outcomes.
Funding for Research and Training in Professional Occupational Therapy Education Programs from 1985 to 1987
Authors: Boyle Mary Ann , Dunn Winnie , Kielhofner Gary
Published: December 2014

This study evaluated data collected by questionnaire (N = 49) from professional occupational therapy education programs in the United States regarding their funding requests submitted in 1985, 1986, and 1987. For the 3-year evaluation period, occupational therapy programs submitted 226 requests. Full or partial funding (N = 134), totaling $13+ million, was received with $8+ million assigned to occupational therapy. Specifically, funding was received in the amount of $389,940 for research (n = 61), $4,247,137 for training (n = 33), $384,213 for model programs (n = 7), $785,133 for research and demonstration projects (n = 6), and $2,316,767 for other types (n = 27). Requests were submitted intramurally (n = 57) and extramurally (n = 169) to a wide variety of agencies. The likelihood of funding varied among funding agencies related to the purpose of the proposal.
Meanings Ascribed to Four Graft Activities before and after Extensive Learning
Authors: Katz Noomi , Cohen Esther
Published: December 2014

The purpose of this study was to compare the meaning ascribed by occupational therapy students to four craft activities before and after extensive learning. Thirty-five first-year undergraduate students completed Osgood's Semantic Differential questionnaire before and after four workshops in puppetry, woodworking, weaving, and ceramics. The data analysis revealed significant differences before and after learning, especially for puppetry. Significant differences also were found across activities, mainly between weaving and each of the other crafts. Results of an exploratory factor analysis showed evaluation to be the main factor, but inconsistent factorial structure was found in relation to Osgood's other two factors of power and action. This finding should be investigated further because activities may differ from concepts usually studied in the behavioral sciences with this instrument. This study contributes to the data accumulated in occupational therapy to document inherent characteristics of activities and meanings ascribed to them.
Gross Motor Development and Testing Implications According to the Pilot Edition III of the Miller Infant and Toddler Test
Authors: Streit Jacqueline M. , Hanzlik Jodie Redditi
Published: December 2014

The Miller Infant and Toddler Test (MITT), Pilot Edition III (Miller, 1989), a test that simultaneously analyzes the quality and quantity of gross motor skills, was used to assess sensorimotor development in 15 male and 15 female infants who were 10 months old. Other variables such as height, weight, head circumference, state of the infant, and distractions during testing were also examined. Chi-square tests with Yates correction indicated that there were no sensorimotor differences between the males and females. A positive correlation between infant state and motor performance and a negative correlation between distractions during testing and motor performance were also demonstrated. Implications of the results are discussed in regard to the MITT and to generalized testing procedures.
The Effects of Competitive vs. Cooperative Structures on Subsequent Productivity in Boys with Psychosocial Disorders
Authors: Nelson David L. , Peterson Cindee Q.
Published: December 2014

The long tradition of experiments that compare the relative benefits of competition and cooperation is relevant to research and theory development in occupational therapy. In this study, three-subject groups structured for competition were compared to three-subject groups structured for cooperation in terms of subsequent productivity (task accomplishment). Thirty-six males (8 to 17 years old) residing in a treatment facility for non-psychotic psychosocial disorders participated in both competitive and cooperative dice games after random assignment to counterbalanced orders. After each dice game, subsequent group productivity was assessed by counting the number of correctly modeled pieces in a tinker toy task. Results did not support the hypothesis that a cooperative experience would enhance subsequent group productivity. On the contrary, a Mann-Whitney U test approached statistical significance (U = 38.5, p = .053) in favor of the group productivity of the post-competition condition. Suggestions are made for future study of the possible advantages and disadvantages of competition and cooperation.
Head and Neck Position Does Not Influence Maximum Static Elbow Extension Force Measured in Healthy Individuals Tested While Prone
Authors: Anderson Leon R. , Bohannon Richard W.
Published: December 2014

The purpose of this study was to determine whether head and neck (HN) position affects elbow extension force. The subjects included 30 healthy men and women between the ages of 21 and 55. Maximum static elbow extension force was tested with a hand-held dynamometer. Four randomly sequenced elbow extension trials were recorded with the subject in the prone position, two with the HN turned toward and two with the HN turned away from the randomly selected test upper extremity. Elbow extensor force did not differ significantly (p = 0.247) with respect to HN position. Therefore, consideration of HN position when testing elbow extensor force is unnecessary while examining subjects whose upper extremities are not affected by neurologic dysfunction.
The Effects of Vestibular-Proprioceptive Stimulation on Motor Maturation and Response to Challenge in Rhesus Monkey Infants
Authors: Schneider Mary L. , Kraemer Gary W. , Suomi Stephen J.
Published: December 2014

This study investigated whether nursery/peer-reared rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatto) infants provided with extra vestibular-proprioceptive stimulation would differ from those reared without such supplementary stimulation on various developmental outcome measures. Fifteen infants were reared under identical conditions with the exception that seven were reared with terry cloth-covered surrogates and terry cloth-covered, water-filled plastic pillows that moved in response to the infants while eight were reared with stationary terry cloth-covered surrogates and terry cloth blankets. All infants were tested throughout the first month of life. Tests were based on widely used human-infant tests designed to measure temperamental, interactive, sensory, and motor characteristics and capabilities. Infants were also tested at 8 months of age on an adaptation of the Bayley Scales of Infant Development. In addition, eight infants (four from each condition) were behaviorally tested for home cage behaviors and responsivity to conditions of unfamiliar events and situations. Results indicated that infants reared with vestibular-proprioceptive stimulation achieved higher scores on the motor subtest from the 8-month assessment, as well as a more favorable response to unfamiliar events and situations.
The Effect of a Sensory Integration Program on Academic Achievement, Motor Performance, and Self-Esteem in Children Identified as Learning Disabled: Results of a Clinical Trial
Authors: Polatajko Helene J. , Law Mary , Miller Janice , Schaffer Robin , Macnab Jennifer
Published: December 2014

A multicenter clinical trial was conducted to evaluate the effect of sensory integration therapy on the academic achievement, motor performance, and self-esteem of learning disabled children who have sensory integrative dysfunction. A sample of 67 children was randomized into one of two groups: sensory integrative (SI) and perceptual-motor therapy (PM). The Woodcock-Johnson Psychoeducational Battery, the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency, the Behavioral Academic Self-Esteem Rating Scale, and the Personality Inventory for Children were administered before therapy, after 6 months of therapy, and 3 months following cessation of therapy. Both the SI and PM groups improved on academic and motor measures. No group differences were detected on any measure. The implications of the findings and possible interpretations are discussed and future studies suggested.
The Effectiveness of Sensory Stimulation in the Treatment of Children with Severe Head Injuries
Authors: Mulligan Shelley E. , Hanzlik Jodie Redditi
Published: December 2014

A single subject design was used with two children with severe head injuries to examine the effects of familiar and unfamiliar auditory and visual stimulation on levels of consciousness. The results indicated that the treatments used in this study did not significantly improve levels of consciousness. To determine whether or not the familiar stimuli was more effective than the unfamiliar, changes in vital signs, including heart and respiratory rates, were examined in response to the stimulation. The results indicated a tendency for one of the subjects to respond more to the familiar stimuli than the unfamiliar; however, the results were not statistically significant. The use of a single subject experimental design for examining the effectiveness of treatments with this population is discussed, as well as implications for therapeutic interventions.
Use of the Bay Area Functional Performance Evaluation with Eating Disordered Patients
Authors: Stanton Elizabeth , Mann William C. , Klyczek James P.
Published: December 2014

This paper describes the use of the Bay Area Functional Performance Evaluation Task Oriented Assessment (BaFPE TOA) with patients diagnosed with eating disorders. The BaFPE TOA was designed to measure functional status of psychiatric patients. Percentile ranges are presented for BaFPE TOA total scores for 111 anorexic, bulimic, atypical eating disordered, and non-eating disordered patients so that therapists who use this evaluation will be able to report individual patient scores against the performance of this sample. In addition, a table of means and standard deviations is presented for the BaFPE TOA items under the three major components: Cognitive, Performance, and Affective. A table of percentile scores for each of the major components is also included. The clinical application of the BaFPE TOA with this population is discussed.
Effects of Lateralized Tasks on Unilateral Neglect after Right Cerebral Vascular Accident
Authors: Cermak Sharon A. , Trombly Catherine A. , Hausser Joann , Tiernan Anne M.
Published: December 2014

This study examined whether activities designed to stimulate the right hemisphere of the brain resulted in decreased neglect in patients with right cerebral vascular accident (CVA) and unilateral neglect (UN) and, conversely, whether activities designed to stimulate the left hemisphere resulted in increased left neglect. An alternating treatment, single subject design was used with five subjects, ages 57 to 74, who demonstrated neglect on both the Schenkenberg Line Bisection Test and the behavioral subtest of the Behavioral Inattention Test. Each subject received 8 days of baseline measures (Schenkenberg Line Bisection Test) and 10 days of treatment, during which the subjects were alternately engaged in the groups of tasks intended to arouse a particular hemisphere, followed by six to eight baseline measures. Line bisection scores were taken after each treatment. The significance of change in UN after either group of activities was determined by visual inspection and semi-statistical analysis using the two standard deviation band method. The findings did not support the hypotheses. Two subjects demonstrated no significant change after either treatment phase; one subject showed a significant decrease in neglect after both phases of treatment; one subject showed a significant decrease in neglect after activities designed to stimulate the right hemisphere but no change after activities to facilitate the left hemisphere; and one subject showed a significant increase in neglect after both types of treatment. Results are discussed in terms of severity of impairment, fatigue effect, spontaneous recovery, and the adequacy of the tasks to differentially activate a single hemisphere.
Adults with an Intellectual Disability: Australian Practitioners' Perspectives
Authors: Llewellyn Gwynnyth
Published: December 2014

Australian occupational therapy practice for adult clients with an intellectual disability was explored through a series of focus group discussions with practitioners. The recorded transcripts from these groups were analyzed using constant comparative analysis. From this analysis four beginning propositions about practice were developed. First, that occupational therapists act as advocates for their adult clients with an intellectual disability; second, that therapists consider occupational therapy a specific contribution to enhancing client “quality of life;” third, that occupational therapy is practiced as part of an interdisciplinary team; and, finally, that there are some limitations to practice in the team setting. The relevance and implications of these propositions for practice and further study are discussed.
Survey of Interdisciplinary Activity between Occupational Therapists and Speech Language Pathologists in the Public Schools
Authors: Edwards Sandra , Hanley John
Published: December 2014

A national survey was conducted to study the interdisciplinary activities between occupational therapists and speech language pathologists in the public schools. The purposes of the study were twofold: 1) to determine as much as possible about how, when, and where these professional groups collaborated in their therapeutic assessment intervention and communication, and 2) to determine those perceived barriers to interdisciplinary activity. Analysis of the data from 344 (66%) occupational therapists and 255 (47%) speech language pathologists (n = 528 and n = 545, respectively), revealed amazingly similar responses. This survey of occupational therapists and speech language pathologists in the public schools was done after completing a national survey of the same professional groups working in the medical setting. Results indicated that occupational therapists and speech language pathologists in the public schools engage in interdisciplinary cooperative planning and treatment infrequently, yet they reported these activities to be very valuable. The interdisciplinary activities as reported by 96% of the speech language pathologists and 59% of the occupational therapists are self-instigated as opposed to being facilitated by their job description or by administrative directive. These clinicians expressed positive benefits from interdisciplinary activity because it allows for a broad exchange of information, enhancement of one's education, and improvement in the quality of therapy. The primary factors perceived to limit interdisciplinary activity were similar to those perceived in the medical setting, namely staff shortages, financial constraints, and physical location.
Biofeedback: A Survey regarding Current Clinical Use and Content in Occupational Therapy Educational Curricula
Authors: King Theodore I.
Published: December 2014

Survey data were collected from a questionnaire mailed to 418 physical dysfunction rehabilitation clinics and 176 occupational therapy educational programs throughout the United States. Information collected from the clinics included: 1) current use of biofeedback, 2) types of biofeedback used, 3) frequency of biofeedback use, and 4) type of biofeedback training received. Information collected from the occupational therapy educational programs included: 1) current inclusion of biofeedback in the curriculum, 2) types of biofeedback included in the curriculum, 3) length of time biofeedback has been included in the curriculum, and 4) type of biofeedback training received by the course instructor. Questionnaires were returned from 301 clinics (72% of the sample) and 91 educational programs (67% of the sample). Forty-seven percent of the clinics reported current use of biofeedback while 59% of those not using biofeedback indicated they would like to in the future. Sixty-three percent of the professional level occupational therapy educational programs indicated current inclusion of biofeedback in the physical dysfunction portion of the curriculum while 13% of the technical level programs reported its inclusion. Electromyographic biofeedback is used in 95% of the clinics using biofeedback as a modality and is taught in 84% of the occupational therapy educational curricula that include biofeedback. Seventy-three percent of the clinicians using biofeedback reported their major training as “on-the-job,” while 66% of the educators including biofeedback in their curricula also reported their training primarily as “on-the-job.”
The Use of OT FACT Categories to Analyze Activity Configurations of Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Bhasin Charlotte A. , Goodman Glenn D.
Published: December 2014

Open-ended responses on activity configurations of 25 patients with multiple sclerosis were coded using categories from the Occupational Therapy Functional Assessment Compilation Tool (OT FACT), Level II— Functional Activities of Performance (Smith, 1989, 1990). The inter-rater reliability for the five occupational therapists who coded the responses was .89. When the same categories were used by patients to code responses, there was complete agreement between therapist and patient in 94% of the activities coded. In a separate study of eight patients, 86% of the OT FACT categories reported on a “typical day” were also reported 10 days later when an “actual day” was recorded. These findings indicate that the OT FACT categories were a reliable and valid tool for coding activity configurations of patients with multiple sclerosis.
Research Education in Undergraduate Occupational Therapy Programs
Authors: Petersen Paul , Roberts Virginia , Loughlin Marie , Ludwig Patricia
Published: December 2014

A literature review revealed the importance of research for advancing occupational therapy as well as its validation. To comply with the 1983 American Occupational Therapy Association Essentials (AOTA, 1983) and to create an atmosphere of inquiry within the profession, it has been necessary to introduce research at the undergraduate level. This paper reports the results of a survey distributed to all accredited undergraduate occupational therapy educational programs in the United States. Its purpose was to determine the extent to which research is taught to undergraduates. Of the 63 surveys mailed, 38 were returned, yielding a 60.3% response rate. The study results indicated that despite some areas of consistent teaching, there was considerable variability in topics covered. The following topics were examined in this study: statistical background (prerequisites), research course content, assignments/outcomes of research courses, statistical software utilization, behavioral objectives for research, program recommendations, and deterrents to meeting these recommendations. The paper closes with an examination of the two AOTA Essentials related to the instruction of research and suggestions for revising the 1993 Essentials.
Educational Level and Professional Activities of Occupational Therapists: A Case Study
Authors: Rogers Joan C. , Hill Doris J. , Holm Margo B. , Wasser Thomas E.
Published: December 2014

Alumni of the three educational tracks of the University of Southern California were surveyed to examine the influence of level and type of educational preparation on professional activities. The entry-level and postprofessional master's groups scored higher than the baccalaureate group in 6 of 10 activity categories investigated—education, leadership, administration and supervision, oral presentations, publications, and research. The entry-level master's group differed from the postprofessional master's group only in education, leadership, and professional recognition. The results confirm that programmatic differences between basic and advanced professional education yield different outcomes in terms of involvement in professional activities. They also suggest that some activity categories are more amenable to educational influences than others. Limitations of the study include use of a self-report instrument, reliance on a dichotomous scale involving only activity participation and non-participation, and consideration of the influence of education on professional activities in isolation from other factors known to influence involvement.
Occupational Role Preferences and Life Satisfaction
Authors: Bränholm Inga-Britt , Fugl-Meyer Axel R.
Published: December 2014

Using responses from mailed checklists, the actual and expected values of 10 occupational roles were identified for 201 randomly selected 25-, 35-, 45-, and 55-year-old Northern Swedish subjects, who also reported their levels of satisfaction with life as a whole and with eight domains of life. The 10 occupational roles were clustered into four factors labeled “meta-roles”: family, vocational, and two leisure meta-roles. The role preferences remained stable for men and women age 35 and 45; however, 25-year-olds expected to gain some roles and 55-year-olds expected to lose the worker role in 10 years. Hence, an age-related role career was identified. Several of the 10 occupational roles and the meta-roles (factors) exhibited logical adaptations to circumstances such as gender and parenthood, as well as role career. The meta-roles were closely related to level of satisfaction within six of the eight domains, indicating that fulfillment of different occupational roles is important for different aspects of life satisfaction.
Assessment of Motor and Process Skills in Normal Young Children and Children with Dyspraxia
Authors: Puderbaugh Janet K. , Fisher Anne G.
Published: December 2014

This study was designed to examine the validity and reliability of the Assessment of Motor and Process Skills (AMPS) as a measure of praxis in young children. The subjects were 22 children, 12 to 54 months old. Fifteen were typically developing children, while seven were suspected of having developmental dyspraxia. Each of the subjects was observed in various play tasks, and performance was rated for qualitative aspects of motor and process skills using the AMPS. The children with suspected developmental dyspraxia had lower ability on measures of motor and process skills than their same-age peers. In addition, validity of the assessment as a measure of praxis was suggested by fit of test items, tasks, and subjects to the measurement model. A strong positive correlation was found between age and ability for the normal children; the AMPS identified an increasing degree of skill levels as age increased. Inter-rater reliability also was high.
Measurement of Activity Levels in Patients with Chronic Pain
Authors: White Jill , Strong Jenny
Published: December 2014

Patients with chronic pain frequently are asked to keep daily activity diaries. Information from the diaries can be used as an index of improvement in physical functioning. For some patients, however, the reliability of activity diary data may be poor. Because of this problem, it is suggested that increased attention be given to alternative activity measurement techniques. The present study examined the comparability between self-monitoring and automated activity level measurement. Subjects included 20 chronic lower back pain patients. Activity levels were concurrently recorded over 4 days with the two measurement systems. Results showed that subjects recorded significantly lower levels of activity with self-monitoring compared to reliable automated measurement. These results call into question reliance on self-monitoring activity level systems by chronic pain researchers and clinicians. Expanded development and use of automated measurement systems is recommended.
Dysequilibrium Reaction Time and “Long-Loop” Recruitment Deficits in Subjects with Hemiplegia
Authors: DiFabio Richard P. , Badke Mary Beth , Breunig Ann
Published: December 2014

Gaps in the recruitment of postural muscles to correct body sway may be a limiting factor in the rehabilitation of patients with stroke. The purpose of this study was to determine how the onset of a postural reflex compares to the conscious identification of body sway in patients with hemiplegia and in a comparison group of able-bodied subjects. All subjects stood on a movable force platform that was unexpectedly displaced backwards inducing a forward body sway. The excursion and velocity of the platform displacements were varied systematically and the frequency of activation of postural muscles was recorded. A hand held response key was used to measure the time required to react to the postural disturbance (RT). In addition, the onset time of a long-loop “stretch” reflex was measured in the gastrocnemius muscles bilaterally. Subjects with hemiplegia failed to recruit a reflex response in 53% of the trials, whereas able-bodied subjects had an absent response in only 3% of the trials. The upper extremity RT for subjects with hemiplegia was not significantly delayed compared to able-bodied subjects, and the onset of a stretch reflex response in the gastrocnemius muscles was not different between groups. In addition, there was no correlation between reflex onset and conscious reaction time for control or disabled groups. These results have implications for the practice of occupational therapy because lower extremity recruitment deficits may persist and require treatment even though the recognition of body sway and the onset of reflex muscle discharge (when recruited) was similar to that of able-bodied subjects.
The Rabideau Kitchen Evaluation-Revised: An Assessment of Meal Preparation Skill
Authors: Neistadt Maureen E.
Published: December 2014

This paper describes the Rabideau Kitchen Evaluation-Revised (RKE-R), an assessment of meal preparation skill for adults with traumatic brain injury (TBI) that yields information about client skill with component steps of an actual meal preparation activity—preparation of a sandwich and a hot beverage. Validity and reliability studies on this instrument are also described. An inter-rater reliability study yielded an 86% agreement among eight evaluators. A test-retest study with four adult men with TBI resulted in a Spearman rank order correlation coefficient of 0.80. Preliminary norms from a sample of 34 ambulatory men with TBI, ages 18 to 49, are reported, and suggest that the RKE-R may not be a useful evaluation tool for clients with subtle cognitive/perceptual deficits. Recommendations for modifying the RKE-R to increase the clinical information it can provide are discussed.
Attitudes of Occupational Therapy Personnel toward Therapists with Disabilities
Authors: Elliott Deborah L. , Hanzlik Jodie Redditi , Gliner Jeffrey A.
Published: December 2014

Responses were analyzed for a social distance scale and questionnaire regarding the attitudes of 106 Registered Occupational Therapists (OTRs) and 98 Certified Occupational Therapy assistants toward Registered OTRs who were hypothetically diagnosed as disabled according to 20 physical or mental disability categories. Results indicated that occupational therapy personnel generally had favorable attitudes toward peers with disabilities in a work situation, with the exception of peers who were specifically diagnosed with drug dependency problems and psychiatric disorders. Neither the length of time a professional had been practicing occupational therapy, nor the quantity or quality of contact with people who have disabilities affected the attitudes expressed. Implications of the results and suggestions for future research are discussed.
Sensory Integration Treatment for Children with Learning Disabilities: Its Status 20 Years Later
Authors: Polatajko Helene J. , Kaplan Bonnie J. , Wilson Brenda N.
Published: December 2014

Ayres' seminal paper in 1972 reported that Sensory Integration (SI) Treatment was a promising method for improving the academic scores of children with learning disabilities. Ottenbacher's (1982a) review of research reported during that first decade indicated that SI treatment was worthy of further investigation. In this report, we reviewed randomized, controlled trials conducted primarily in the second decade, and conclude that the status of the literature 20 years after Ayres' original article does not support SI treatment as an effective treatment for the academic problems of learning disabled children. With respect to sensory or motor variables, it is not clear whether or not SI treatment is more effective than perceptual-motor approaches. Future research also must determine whether SI treatment is more effective than maturation alone.
Investigation of the Transient Ischemia Workload and its Incidence: Implications for Occupational Therapy Research
Authors: Shah Surya , Cooper Betty , Lyons Mike
Published: December 2014

With limited effectiveness of medical and surgical intervention following stroke, the focus has shifted to preventing stroke and the most important warning sign of an impending stroke, the Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) or the “mini stroke.” We found that the incidence of hospital admissions for the TIA patients in a population of slightly more than 1 million (660,598 people 25 years and older) was 1.18 per 1,000 men, or a total of 386 men, and 0.73 per 1,000 women, or a total of 258 women. The overall admission rate was 0.95 per 1,000 people 25 and older. For those hospitalized, the mean age was 67.9 years for men, and 71.3 years for women. Our epidemiological study of hospital admissions and the cases reported and managed by the general medical practitioners in the community showed the crude incidence rate of 2.89 per 1,000 people 25 years and older, while the adjustment for the world standardized population rate yielded a value of 1.26 per 1,000, or 44% of the crude rate that was actually observed. There appeared to be a marked disparity between the reported female and male cases of TIA. The research discussion focuses on two equally important thrusts: 1) development of strategies to reduce identified risk factors for stroke, and 2) establishment of a premorbid patient profile by occupational therapists that will have widespread implications for identifying changes for the potential prevention and treatment of stroke.
Comparison of In-Hand Manipulation Skills in Children with and without Fine Motor Delays
Authors: Case-Smith Jane
Published: December 2014

In-hand manipulation was investigated in a sample of 15 children with fine motor developmental delays and a comparison sample of typical children. The children were 4 to 6 years old, the age range in which in-hand manipulation skills are refined (Exner, 1990). Time scores were computed for two tasks that required in-hand manipulation using small pegs: complex rotation and translation with stabilization. The number of times pegs were dropped or stabilized on external surfaces was computed, and continuous rotation of the peg among the fingertips was scored by counting the number of rotations prior to dropping. The children with developmental delays were significantly slower than the typical children in time required to complete the first two tasks and in number of drops and times they stabilized the pegs. The results of this pilot study indicate that children with fine motor delays appear to be slower and less efficient performing in-hand manipulation skills. Children with less efficient in-hand manipulation skills may require assistance performing daily living skills, and occupational therapy focused on the development of in-hand manipulation skills may increase their daily living skill independence.
Pressure Sore Prophylaxis in Elderly Patients Using Slab Foam or Customized Contoured Foam Wheelchair Cushions
Authors: Conine Tali A. , Daechsel Dawn , Hershler Cecil
Published: December 2014

In a modified sequential trial, we randomly assigned 288 elderly patients, who were assessed to be at high risk of pressure sores (Norton score ≤14), to use slab foam or customized contoured foam cushions in their wheelchairs for 3 months. A total of 359 sores developed in 169 (68%) of the 248 at-risk patients who completed the study. The sores were mostly of the persistent erythema level (57%) in severity and took an average of 28 days to heal. No significant differences were found in the overall incidence, severity, or healing time of the sores in the patients who developed sores and used the slab (n=85) or the contoured (n=84) cushions. Significantly more sores developed in the area of ischial tuberosities in the slab cushion group, and in the sacrococcygeal area of the contoured cushion group. Age and severe malnourishment were found to be associated with the incidence of sores but the number of hours seated daily and other patient characteristics were not related. We concluded that customized cushions should be offered only to those elderly patients who do not have a tendency to slide in the chair. Implications of the findings for prophylactic practice in extended care facilities are identified.
Use of the Model of Human Occupation: A Survey of Therapists in Psychiatric Practice
Authors: Muñoz Jaime Phillip , Lawlor Mary , Kielhofner Gary
Published: December 2014

This study sought to examine how occupational therapists (OTs) who utilize the Model of Human Occupation as their primary practice model applied concepts of this model to describe the occupational functioning of their clients. A telephone survey method was created to elicit quantitative and qualitative data. The findings suggest that therapists value the holistic approach of this model and often incorporate parts of other practice models into it, although sometimes they ignore conceptual differences between the models. Therapists questioned found major concepts of the model useful for conceptualizing their clients' occupational functioning, but found the further subdivision of major concepts into several variables to be less useful. These preliminary findings and how they relate to the model as a practice theory are examined, and the parts of the theory that may bear refinement or change are discussed.
Children's Compliance with Progressive Relaxation Procedures for Improving Headache Control
Authors: Engel Joyce M.
Published: December 2014

Compliance has been an overlooked area in occupational therapy practice and research. Compliance with progressive relaxation training for recurrent headache relief was determined for 10 children. A multiple baseline across subjects design was used. Baseline periods were assigned randomly and ranged from 7 to 25 days with treatment introduced in a time-staggered fashion. Subjects received a 6-week program that included weekly training sessions supplemented with daily home practice. Compliance was determined by the subject's correct recording of a password randomly placed on a cassette relaxation tape. Mean compliance across subjects was 84% (range: 36% to 100%). Noncompliance occurred 74% of the time when subjects reported being headache-free for that day. Eight of the subjects had a 2% to 30% (mean: 15%) increase in headache-free days. This study indicated that compliance with relaxation training does not result consistently in headache relief. Guidelines for the occupational therapist's assessment of patient compliance with treatment regimens are provided. Results and implications for future research also are discussed.
The Kingston Geriatric Cognitive Battery
Authors: Hopkins Robert W. , Dixon-Medora Patti , Krefting Laura
Published: December 2014

Dementing illnesses are thought to account for over 50% of all mental health problems among the elderly. The diagnoses and treatments of dementing illnesses are complex, and occupational therapists frequently are called upon to contribute to the multidisciplinary assessment of cognitive impairment. The Kingston Geriatric Cognitive Battery is a tool developed to assist therapists in evaluating demented patients. This article describes the Kingston Geriatric Cognitive Battery and provides data on its validity and rater reliability.
Reliability of Grip Strength Assessment with the Computerized Jamar Dynamometer
Authors: Niebuhr Bruce R. , Marion Rodger , Fike M. Laurita
Published: December 2014

The purpose of our study was to determine the reliability of the model PC5030PT computerized Jamar dynamometer (J. A. Preston, Jackson, MI). A test-retest reliability study was conducted in which 33 normal subjects were tested three times over a 6-week period. Standard procedures for assessing grip strength were followed. Both left and right hands were tested. We quantified three characteristics of the force curve: (a) the slope of the rise in force, (b) the maximal or peak force, and (c) the mean sustained force over the last 3 sec of a 5-sec contraction. Reliability was good with intraclass reliability coefficients ranging from .84 to .93. We conclude that the computerized Jamar will yield reliable measurement of grip strength if the instrument is calibrated properly and if standardized procedures for grip strength testing are followed.
Differences in Perceptual-Motor Measures in Children with Good and Poor Handwriting
Authors: Tseng Mei Hui , Murray Elizabeth A.
Published: December 2014

The concept that handwriting is primarily a perceptual-motor act is held by various authors (Chapman & Wedell, 1972; Furner, 1969; Sovick, 1975; Ziviani, Hayes, & Chant, 1990). However, the assumption that poor handwriters would perform less well than good handwriters on perceptual-motor tests has not yet been well researched. The purpose of this study was to examine this assumption as well as the relationship of perceptual-motor abilities to the legibility of handwriting. One hundred forty-three Chinese children in grades 3 through 5 served as subjects. Perceptual-motor tests that measured the abilities proposed to be subskills of handwriting were administered along with a handwriting test. Results showed that poor handwriters scored more poorly than good handwriters on most of the perceptual-motor tests. Regression analysis revealed that among the perceptual-motor measures visual-motor integration, as measured by the Developmental Test of Visual-Motor Integration, and eye-hand coordination, as measured by the Motor Accuracy Test, contributed most to the legibility of handwriting for the total group of handwriters. However, for poor handwriters, results of a stepwise regression analysis revealed that motor planning, as measured by the Finger Position Imitation Test, contributed the most to the legibility of handwriting. In contrast, for good handwriters, visual perception, as measured by the Test of Visual Perceptual Skills, contributed most to the legibility of handwriting.
Qualitative Methods in Field Research: An Indonesian Experience in Community Based Practice
Authors: Lysack Catherine L. , Krefting Laura , Gliner Jeffrey A.
Published: December 2014

Occupational therapy is increasing its focus on community based practice, a focus that necessitates innovative approaches to evaluating rehabilitation programs. The appropriate match of methodology to research question is important, but conducting rigorous research in a community setting has numerous practical and academic difficulties, particularly in the cross-cultural context. A lack of cultural and religious sensitivity may compromise the quality of data collected, while thorough reliability procedures are required to enhance the credibility of study findings. The purpose of this article is to illustrate how a qualitative, multimethod approach to research (questionnaires, key informant interviews, and focus group interviews) was used in a cross-cultural evaluation study of volunteer community based rehabilitation cadres in Indonesia. The strengths and limitations of each method are examined in the context of their application to this experience in the field.
Data Cleaning in Occupational Therapy Research
Authors: Dijkers Marcel P. J. M. , Creighton Cynthia L.
Published: December 2014

Errors in processing data prior to analysis can cause significant distortion of research findings. General principles and specific techniques for cleaning data sets are presented. Strategies are suggested for preventing errors in transcribing, coding, and keying research data.
A Comparison of Funding Patterns in Professional Occupational Therapy Education Programs
Authors: Dunn Winnie , Boyle Mary Ann
Published: December 2014

This study compared data collected from two questionnaires completed by faculty in professional occupational therapy education programs in the United States. The questionnaires asked respondents to describe their funding requests over two time periods; 1985 through 1987 and 1988 through 1990. The data from the first time period was reported elsewhere (Boyle, Dunn, & Kielhofner, 1990); this article presents the data from the second inquiry and compares the data from the two time periods to show trends. Programs submitted a total of 24 requests intramurally and 194 requests extramurally for a total of 218 requests during the second time period. Programs received full or partial funding for 115 proposals, a total of nearly $15 million, which was an increase of approximately $2 million. Research was funded at $1,865,500 ( n=35), a more than $1 million increase from the first time period. Programs received $5,725,790 for training ( n=35), $28,450 for model programs ( n=2), $1,326,614 for research and demonstration ( n=6), and $5,804,689 for other activities ( n=37).