bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of genetic variability, character association, path analysis and selection parameters for heterotic recombinant inbred lines of garden peas (Pisum sativum var. Hortense L.) under mid-hill conditions of Himachal Pradesh, India
Authors: Katoch* Viveka , Singh Prem , Devi Mayanglambam Bilashini , Sharma Akhilesh , Sharma G.D. , Sharma J.K.
Published: December 2015

The present investigations involving forty five diverse pea recombinant inbreds and three standard checks were carried out for two successive years during 2011-2012 and 2012-13. The objective of the study was to ascertain genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance, correlation and path coefficient among yield and other horticultural and quality traits and identification of superior recombinants for their utilization in crop improvement programme. Wide range of variability was observed for most of the characters under study. The magnitude of phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) was higher than the genotypic coefficient of variability (GCV) for all the traits. High phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variations were recorded for protein content, ascorbic acid, plant height and pod yield per plant for both the years. Pod yield per plant and plant height exhibited high heritability associated with high genetic advance in the respective years indicating the additive gene action for their expression and are likely to respond better to selection. Pod yield showed a positive and significant correlation with number of pods per plant, pod length and number of seeds per pod both the years. Path analysis revealed that number of pods per plant and pod length have highest positive direct effect both the years and thus it may be treated as selection criteria for isolating higher yielding genotypes in garden peas. In heterosis study, some of the recombinant inbreds were found superior over standard checks which include L-14 and L-13 for pod yield/plant, number of pod/plant and earliness. These findings can be further utilized to develop and enhance the yield potential of garden pea.
Stability analysis for yield and its attributing traits in advanced genotypes of pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.]
Authors: Kumara* B. Niranjana , Dharmaraj P. S. , Kuchnur P.H. , Muniswamy S. , . Yamanura , Diwan J.R. , Amaresh Y.S.
Published: December 2015

The present investigation was carried out during kharif 2012 at the Agricultural Research Station, Gulbarga and other four locations located in north eastern dry zone (Zone 2) of Karnataka, to know the stability of the nineteen advanced genotypes of pigeonpea. Highly significant differences among genotypes were observed for all the characters except number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod and seed yield per plant. The variance due to Genotype x Environment found significant for the characters like days to 80% pod maturity and number of seeds per pod. Environment (linear) interaction component was significant for all the traits. The variance due to pooled deviation (non- linear) was highly significant for all the characters except for number of seeds per pod which reflect considerable genetic diversity in the material. Out of 19 genotypes studied two entries viz., GRG-109 and GRG-107 were consistent and high yielding compared to local checks.
Effect of weed control practices on weed dynamics, yield and economics of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill]
Authors: Devi K. Nandini , Singh Kh. Lenin , Mangang CNJS Arangba , Singh N. Brajendra , Athokpam Herojit Singh , Singh A. Dorendro
Published: December 2015

The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with three replications and eight weed control treatments viz., weedy check, polythene mulching as pre emergence (PE), pendimethalin30EC (PE), chlorimuron ethyl 9g ha-1as post emergence (POE), quizalofop ethyl 50g ha-1 (POE), imazethapyr 100g ha-1 as early post emergence (EPOE), one hand weeding at 40 days after sowing (DAS) and two hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAS. The results showed that polythene mulching had the lowest weed dry matter due to effectively suppression of weed emergence. It was followed by twice hand weeding at 20 and 40 days after sowing. Weed index was found to be the highest with weedy check (42.10%) followed by the pre-emergence application of pendimethalin (19.09%). The effect of herbicide applied as pre-emergence was subdued at this belated stage, which may possibly be on account of longer period after application and restricted effective residual period. Plant height, number of pods per plant and grain yield of soybean was found to be highest in the treatments twice hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAS as well as polythene mulching. However, the net return and B:C ratio was lower in comparison to imazethapyr and quizalofop ethyl due to higher cost of labour and polythene material respectively. On an average, the application of imazethapyr as early post emergence (3.17) and quizalofop ethyl (3.02) gave significantly highest B:C ratio than the other treatments for soybean.
Searching for resistance in wild Lens species against pulse beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis (L.)
Authors: Gore Padmavati G , Tripathi K , Chauhan SK , Singh Mohar , Bisht IS , Bhalla* S
Published: December 2015

A total of 51 accessions of different Lens spp. viz., Lens culinaris (cultivated) and L. culinaris subsp. odemensis, L. culinaris subsp. orientalis, L. orientalis, L. nigricans, L. lamottei and L. ervoides (wild species) were screened for their reaction to Callosobruchus chinensis under no-choice artificial infestation conditions to find the sources of resistance. Significant differences among the accessions in terms of number of eggs laid, development period, adult emergence, number of emergence holes of C. chinensis loss in seed weight on different Lens spp. were observed. Of the seven species tested, L. culinaris was the most preferred one for egg laying while L. ervoides was the least preferred. Based on Growth Index (GI), accessions were categorised as highly resistant (15 accessions, GI = 0.00), resistant (14, GI=0.00 to 1.00), moderately resistant (16, GI=1.01 to 2.00) moderately susceptible (3, GI 2.01 to 3.00) susceptible (3, greater than 3.01) to C. chinensis and the species have been arranged in the order of their resistance to C. chinensis. viz L. ervoides greater than L. lamottei greater than L. nigricans= L. orientalis greater than L. culinaris subsp. orientalis= L. culinaris subsp. odemensis greater than L. culnaris, i.e. L. ervoides was highly resistant and L. culnaris was the most susceptible. Correlation between GI and growth parameters of pulse beetle on different Lens spp. accessions indicated that GI had negative relationship with mean development period (-0.22) and significant positive relationship with adult emergence (+0.73), weight loss (+0.77) and eggs laid (+0.75).
Studies on heterosis and inbreeding depression for yield and its attributes in greengram [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek]
Authors: Narasimhulu R. , Naidu N. V. , Reddy K. H.P.
Published: December 2015

Five crosses were evaluated to study the extent of heterosis and inbreeding depression for yield and its attributing traits in greengram. Heterosis over mid parent, better parent and standard variety was significant for pods/plant and seed yield/plant. The crosses exhibiting high heterosis also expressed high inbreeding depression for pods/plant, pods/cluster and seed yield/plant. Heterosis coupled with inbreeding depression revealed the predominance of non-additive gene action for most of the characters studied. Owing to its autogamous genetic architecture and biological constrains of the crop the heterosis could be exploited only by isolating the desirable segregants for yield attributes adopting bi-parental or recurrent selection in early segregating generations followed by single plant selection in subsequent generations.
Co-inoculation of Mesorhizobium sp. and plant growth promoting rhizobacteria Pseudomonas sp. as bio-enhancer and bio-fertilizer in chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)
Authors: Kaur Navprabhjot , Sharma Poonam , Sharma Sunita
Published: December 2015

The present investigation was undertaken to study the synergistic effect of recommended Mesorhizobium sp. (LGR -33) (Meso) and native potential PGPR Pseudomonas sp. (PGPR 2 and PGPR 3) along with reference strain Pseudomonas diminuta (LK884) on bio-enhancing activity, symbiotic parameters and grain yield in desi (PBG 1) and kabuli (BG 1053) under field conditions in chickpea during rabi 2009-2010. Significant improvement in growth and symbiotic parameters was observed with co-inoculation of Mesorhizobium sp. with native potential Pseudomonas sp. PGPR as compared to single inoculants of Mesorhizobium sp. in both varieties. Maximum improvement in symbiotic parameters was observed with co-inoculation of Mesorhizobium sp. and PGPR 3 followed by native PGPR 2 as compared to LK884 (reference). On an average, co-inoculation of Mesorhizobium sp. with PGPR 3 improved the yield by 7.0% (desi) and 5.3% (kabuli) over Mesorhizobium sp. alone. It appears that native potential Pseudomonas sp. PGPR can be explored as potent bio-enhancers and bio-fertilizers along with Mesorhizobium sp. in chickpea under low input technology programme of sustainable agriculture.
Effect of weed management and sulphur on nutrient content and uptake by weeds and soybean
Authors: Dhaker S. C. , Mundra S. L. , Dhaker R. C. , Sumeriya H. K.
Published: December 2015

A field experiment was undertaken to study the effect of weed management and sulphur nutrition on nutrient content and uptake by weeds and soybean during kharif 2009. The results revealed that application of two hoeing and weedings and imazethapyr 100 g/ha+ H&W at 40 DAS recorded maximum seed yield (1475 and 1395 kg/ha, respectively). Two H&W significantly reduced the weed growth and nutrient uptake by weeds, there by increased the nutrient (N, P and S) uptake by crop. Application of 40 kg S /ha significantly recorded the highest seed yield. This also increased N, P and S content and their uptake by soybean and weeds.
Variability and association studies and screening of genotypes against pea seed borne mosaic virus (psmv) in lentil (lens culinaris medik) under NW- Himalayas of Jammu and Kashmir
Authors: Kumar Sanjeev , Singh Praveen , Khar Sanjay , Sharma Magdeshwar
Published: December 2015

The phenotypic expression and heritability of quantitative traits vary due to genotypic differences and environmental influences. Maximum heritability was found in number of pods/plant (99.43%) followed by seed yield/plant (99.06%) and number of primary branches/plant (98.74%). The presence of considerable degree of genotypic variances among tested genotypes under different environments suggests that success in lentil breeding could possibly be achieved through direct phenotypic selection. Seed yield showed highly significant positive correlation with number of pods/plant and pod length. Maximum direct effect on seed yield was observed for pod length. There was a wide range of variability in disease reaction among the genotypes. Pea seed borne mosaic virus is basically a disease of pea has been found to be transmitted to lentil. It is suggested that these two crops should not be planted near each other. Therefore, number of pods/plant, pod length, days to maturity and number of seeds/pod was emphasized as primary seed yield.
Effect of biofertilizers and foliar application of organic acids on yield, nutrient uptake and soil microbial activity in soybean
Authors: Lingaraju N. N. , Hunshal C. S. , Salakinkop S. R.
Published: December 2015

A field experiment was undertaken during kharif 2012 to study effect of biofertilizers and foliar application of organic acids on yield, nutrient uptake and microbial activity of soybean at MARS, Dharwad under rainfed condition. The experiment was laid out in RCBD factorial having twenty treatment combinations and replicated thrice. The treatments comprised of four P-Solubilizers (PSB, VAM, PSB + VAM and Control) and five foliar spray of organic acids (Humic acid, Lecithin, Citric acid, Maleic acid and control). The results revealed that higher seed yield of soybean (35.96 q ha-1) was obtained with the treatment combination of dual inoculation of PSB+VAM with foliar spray of 0.1% humic acid at flower initiation and was higher to an extent 22.5 per cent compared to control (27.90 q ha-1). Similar trend was observed on microbial activity and nutrient uptake (N, P2O5 and K2O) of the soybean crop.
Variation in phosphorus accumulation in groundnut cultivars as influenced by water salinity
Authors: Bhaduri* Debarati , Meena H.N. , Chakraborty K.
Published: December 2015

Soil salinity remains an obvious abiotic stress that changes the behavior of nutrient accumulation in crop plants. Phosphorus being a key element in determining crop growth and economic yield, its uptake in plant parts varies under saline condition. Hence an experiment was conducted to assess the changing phosphorus content in eight groundnut cultivars,were grown in a field trial having in-built soil salinity developed with 0.5, 2.0, 4.0 and 6.0 dSm-1 of saline irrigations (ECiw). Root-P was observed to have an increasing trend of accumulation upto 6.0 ECiw while leaf-P increased upto 4.0 ECiw with a concomitant rise in soil P. The cultivars TG 37A and GG 7 accumulated more leaf-P and root-P. However, across the cultivars the P-uptake was reduced when the applied ECiw was 6.0 dS m-1. Further, these plant-P parameters correlated with the yield and yield attributes of groundnut crop.
Eco-friendly management of wilt caused by fusarium oxysporum f.sp. Ciceri in chickpea
Authors: Kala Chandar , Gangopadhyay S. , Godara S. L.
Published: December 2015

Antagonistic potentiality of Trichoderma viride, T. harzianum and Pseudomonas fluorescens were evaluated against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceri under in vivo conditions. The effect of organic amendments viz; farm yard manure, vermicompost and mustard cake on disease control potentiality of test antagonists against chickpea wilt and on population dynamics of the antagonists and pathogen in soil was also studied. Maximum inhibition of mycelial growth of F. o. f. sp. ciceri was recorded in presence of P. fluorescens (%) followed by T. harzianum (%) and T. viride (%). Seed treatment with P. fluorescens was more effective in suppressing the disease incidence as compared to T. harzianum and T. viride. The disease control efficacy and population dynamics of all the three test antagonists was enhanced in response to application of organic amendments. Among the three organic amendments tested, mustard cake was most effective in enhancing the disease control potentiality of these antagonists.
Effect of organic and inorganic fertilizers on growth, green pod yield and economics of french bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) cv. HPR-35
Authors: Kamble* M.Y. , Kalalbandi B.M. , Kadam A.R. , Rohidas S.B.
Published: December 2015

The field experiment was conducted during rabi season of 2012. Results revealed that organic and inorganic fertilizers combinations significantly increase the growth and green pod yield of french bean. 100% NPK + PM @ 5 t ha-1 recorded maximum plant height, number of branches, number of leaves, mean leaf area, length of pod, diameter of pod, number of pod, weight of pod, green pod yield (30.98 q per ha-1), over other treatments. But in case of highest net returns (48013 ha-1) and BCR (2.33) was obtained with application of 100% NPK + PM @ 2.5 t ha-1 and next best treatment was 100% NPK + VC @ 2.5 t ha-1 BCR (2.11).
Productivity enhancement in black gram through refinement of nutrient management under rice fallow condition
Authors: Ramesh* T. , Rathika S. , Parthipan T. , Ravi V.
Published: December 2015

Field experiment was conducted during rice fallow season (January-March), 2011 and 2012 to study the effect of DAP application to preceding rice in last irrigation and foliar nutrition to black gram on the productivity and profitability of black gram(ADT 3) under rice fallow condition. The results indicated that application of DAP at 50 kg/ha to preceding rice in last irrigation and foliar spray of DAP (2 per cent) and KCl (1 per cent) at 30 and 45 days after sowing to black gram registered higher plant height (24.6 cm) at 20 DOS number of pods per plant (18.4), grain yield (639 kg/ha), net returns (Rs.22290/ha) and additional income (Rs. 7563/ha). Application of DAP at 50 kg/ha in last irrigation to preceding rice produced significantly higher grain yield of succeeding black gram (613 kg/ha.) over control (488 kg/ha) which was comparable with foliar application of 2 per cent DAP and 1 per cent KCl to black gram. With reference to return per rupee invested, application of DAP at 50 kg/ha to preceding rice in last irrigation registered higher benefit cost ratio of 3.56 in black gram.
Efficacy of imidacloprid seed treatment for the control of leafhoppers and thrips in groundnut
Authors: Nataraja* M.V. , Harish G. , Holajjer Prasanna , Savaliya S.D.
Published: December 2015

The bio-efficacy of imidacloprid seed treatment against leafhopper and thrips of groundnut was studied during kharif (23rd to 42nd standard week) and summer (5th to 23rd standard week) cropping seasons of 2010 and 2011. The six different concentrations viz., 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 3.0, 4.0 and 5.0 g a. i. kg-1 were tested for their bio-efficacy. A modified sweep net method was followed to record the leafhopper and thrips populations. Seed treatments with imidacloprid @ 2.0 to 5.0 g a. i. kg-1 were found most effective in reducing the insect population. However, seed treatment with imidacloprid @ 2.0 g a. i. kg-1 may be included in integrated pest management (IPM) package for groundnut from environmental safety point.
Investigating inheritance patterns of a spontaneous mutant in pigeonpea and its future implications for CGMS based hybrid breeding
Authors: Bohra* Abhishek , Singh* I.P. , Mehandi Suhel , Singh Deepak , Nadarajan N.
Published: December 2015

Despite concerted breeding efforts directed towards genetic improvement of pigeonpea, huge gap exists between its potential and actual yields. Recently, in order to stabilize pigeonpea yield the CGMS- based system has been established in pigeonpea. Maintenance of the genetic purity of parental lines and hybrids, however, remains one the greatest challenges associated with CGMS-based system. In the context, identification of some markers clearly discriminating the parental lines and hybrids would be of immense importance. With this view, here we report the discovery of a spontaneous mutant phenotype that would act as potential visual marker in the CGMS based hybrid breeding programmes. Moreover, the nature of inheritance for the mutant phenotype was also examined. All the F1s derived from a bi-parental cross (mutant × normal) were normal with lanceolate leaves and normal flower morphology while the F2 and backcross generations segregated in ratio of 3:1 and 1:1, respectively indicating monogenic recessive inheritance of the gene(s) under investigation. More importantly, existence of a single gene affecting both traits would facilitate rapid introgression of these morphological markers into genetic backgrounds of different A-lines which will help in differentiating the CGMS-hybrids from their parental lines (A-lines). It is envisaged that these morphological markers would greatly assist pigeonpea breeders in maintaining the genetic purity while dealing with CGMS system in pigeonpea.
Automated detection of case clusters of waterborne acute gastroenteritis from health insurance data – pilot study in three French districts
Authors: Rambaud Loïc , Galey Catherine , Beaudeau Pascal
Published: December 2015

This pilot study was conducted to assess the utility of using a health insurance database for the automated detection of waterborne outbreaks of acute gastroenteritis (AGE). The weekly number of AGE cases for which the patient consulted a doctor (cAGE) was derived from this database for 1,543 towns in three French districts during the 2009–2012 period. The method we used is based on a spatial comparison of incidence rates and of their time trends between the target town and the district. Each municipality was tested, week by week, for the entire study period. Overall, 193 clusters were identified, 10% of the municipalities were involved in at least one cluster and less than 2% in several. We can infer that nationwide more than 1,000 clusters involving 30,000 cases of cAGE each year may be linked to tap water. The clusters discovered with this automated detection system will be reported to local operators for investigation of the situations at highest risk. This method will be compared with others before automated detection is implemented on a national level.
Effects of plumbing systems on human exposure to disinfection byproducts in water: a case study
Authors: Chowdhury Shakhawat
Published: December 2015

Disinfection byproducts (DBPs) in water distribution systems (WDS) are monitored for regulatory compliance, while populations are exposed to DBPs in tap water that may be different due to stagnation of water in plumbing pipes (PP) and heating in hot water tanks (HWT). This study investigated the effects of water stagnation in PP and HWT on exposure and risk of DBPs to humans. Trihalomethanes (THMs) in PP and HWT were observed to be 1.1–2.4 and 1.6–3.0 times, respectively, to THMs in the WDS, while haloacetic acids (HAAs) were 0.9–1.8 and 1.2–1.9 times, respectively, to HAAs in the WDS. The chronic daily intakes of DBPs from PP and HWT were 0.6–1.8 and 0.5–2.3 times the intakes from WDS. The cancer risks from PP and HWT were 1.46 (0.40–4.3) and 1.68 (0.35–5.1) times the cancer risks from WDS. The findings may assist in regulating DBPs exposure concentrations.
Evaluation of potential human health risk and investigation of drinking water quality in Isparta city center (Turkey)
Authors: Varol Simge , Davraz Aysen
Published: December 2015

Isparta city center is selected as a work area in this study because the public believes that the tap water is dirty and harmful. In this study, the city's drinking water in the distribution system and other spring waters which are used as drinking water in this region were investigated from the point of water quality and health risk assessment. Water samples were collected from major drinking water springs, tap waters, treatment plants and dam pond in the Isparta province center. Ca-Mg-HCO3, Mg-Ca-HCO3, Ca-Na-HCO3, Ca-HCO3, Ca-HCO3-SO4 and Ca-Mg-HCO3-SO4 are dominant water types. When compared to drinking water guidelines established by World Health Organization and Turkey, much greater attention should be paid to As, Br, Fe, F, NH4, PO4 through varied chemicals above the critical values. The increases of As, Fe, F, NH4 and PO4 are related to water–rock interaction. In tap waters, the increases of As and Fe are due to corrosion of pipes in drinking water distribution systems. The major toxic and carcinogenic chemicals within drinking water are As and Br for both tap water and spring water. Also, F is the non-carcinogenic chemical for only spring waters in the study area.
Wastewater reuse: potential for expanding Iran's water supply to survive from absolute scarcity in future
Authors: Charkhestani Ali , Salehi Ziri Moslem , Amini Rad Hasan
Published: December 2015

Iran, like many parts of the world, suffers from water scarcity and is located in one of the most arid regions. This is not only due to the low rates of precipitation received, but also due to the increase in demand on water resources for municipal, agricultural, and industrial uses. Wastewater reuse has proven to be effective and successful in creating a new and reliable water supply. Also, it can meet environmental needs, sustainable development, and a viable economy. There are two strategies for reuse implementation: (1) a future oriented approach allows structured planning within a broader wastewater management master plan and gives the greatest flexibility for reuse; (2) the available effluent quality from existing treatment plants defines the possible reuse option. According to the present situation in Iran, the second strategy is more reliable in preserving the country from absolute scarcity in future. Thus, the objective of this article is to understand the hidden comprehensive potential of reuse in three major categories: agricultural, industrial, and municipal uses, according to the improvement in the Falkenmark indicator.
Evaluation of the applicability of the SWAT model in an arid piedmont plain oasis
Authors: Wu Yong , Li Changyou , Zhang Chengfu , Shi Xiaohong , Bourque Charles P.-A. , Zhao Shengnan
Published: December 2015

Hetao Oasis is located in a typical piedmont alluvial plain bounded by the Langshan Mountain Range in the north, desert in the west, and the Yellow River in the south. Agricultural activities within the oasis significantly impact the hydrological cycle and water quality in downstream locations. The research uses the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) for a piedmont plain by defining the watershed boundary as coinciding with the natural mountain ridge, the border between the oasis and the desert, and the Yellow River. The model simulates water discharge with coefficient of determination and a Nash–Sutcliffe model efficiency of 0.78 and 0.62 during model calibration, and 0.75 and 0.69 during model validation, suggesting that delineation of the watershed as carried out in this research is suitable for piedmont plain topography. From the results, the mountains contribute 28.4% to the water discharge at the outlet of the watershed, and water-use efficiency of irrigated water is about 40%, which is consistent with field-based measurements. Methodologies used in delineating watershed boundaries and parameterizing SWAT provide a solid foundation for water balance studies in other regions of the world with similar topography.
Efficiency of wastewater treatment in SBR and IFAS-MBSBBR systems in specified technological conditions
Authors: Sytek-Szmeichel K. , Podedworna J. , Zubrowska-Sudol M.
Published: December 2015

The objective of this study is to compare wastewater treatment effectiveness in sequencing batch reactor (SBR) and integrated fixed-film activated sludge–moving-bed sequencing batch biofilm reactor (IFAS-MBSBBR) systems in specific technological conditions. The comparison of these two technologies was based on the following assumptions, shared by both series, I and II: the reactor's active volume was 28 L; 8-hour cycle of reactor's work, with the same sequence and duration of its consecutive phases; and the dissolved oxygen concentration in the aerobic phases was maintained at a level of 3.0 mg O2/L. For both experimental series (I and II), comparable effectiveness of organic compound (chemical oxygen demand (COD)) removal, nitrification and biological phosphorus removal has been obtained at levels of 95.1%, 97% and 99%, respectively. The presence of the carrier improved the efficiency of total nitrogen removal from 86.3% to 91.7%. On the basis of monitoring tests, it has been found that the ratio of simultaneous denitrification in phases with aeration to the total efficiency of denitrification in the cycle was 1.5 times higher for IFAS-MBSBBR.
Locomotor Performance During Rehabilitation of People With Lower Limb Amputation and Prosthetic Nonuse 12 Months After Discharge
Authors: Roffman Caroline E. , Buchanan John , Allison Garry T.
Published: December 2015

Background

It is recognized that multifactorial assessments are needed to evaluate balance and locomotor function in people with lower limb amputation. There is no consensus on whether a single screening tool could be used to identify future issues with locomotion or prosthetic use.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to determine whether different tests of locomotor performance during rehabilitation were associated with significantly greater risk of prosthetic abandonment at 12 months postdischarge.

Design

This was a retrospective cohort study.

Method

Data for descriptive variables and locomotor tests (ie, 10-Meter Walk Test [10MWT], Timed “Up & Go” Test [TUGT], Six-Minute Walk Test [6MWT], and Four Square Step Test [FSST]) were abstracted from the medical records of 201 consecutive participants with lower limb amputation. Participants were interviewed and classified as prosthetic users or nonusers at 12 months postdischarge. The Mann-Whitney U test was used to analyze whether there were differences in locomotor performance. Receiver operating characteristic curves were generated to determine performance thresholds, and relative risk (RR) was calculated for nonuse.

Results

At 12 months postdischarge, 18% (n=36) of the participants had become prosthetic nonusers. Performance thresholds, area under the curve (AUC), and RR of nonuse (95% confidence intervals [CI]) were: for the 10MWT, if walking speed was ≤0.44 ms−1 (AUC=0.743), RR of nonuse=2.76 (95% CI=1.83, 3.79; P<.0001); for the TUGT, if time was ≥21.4 seconds (AUC=0.796), RR of nonuse=3.17 (95% CI=2.17, 4.14; P<.0001); for the 6MWT, if distance was ≤191 m (AUC=0.788), RR of nonuse=2.84, (95% CI=2.05, 3.48; P<.0001); and for the FSST, if time was ≥36.6 seconds (AUC=0.762), RR of nonuse=2.76 (95% CI=1.99, 3.39; P<.0001).

Limitations

Missing data, potential recall bias, and assessment times that varied were limitations of the study.

Conclusions

Locomotor performance during rehabilitation may predict future risk of prosthetic nonuse. It may be implied that the 10MWT has the greatest clinical utility as a single screening tool for prosthetic nonuse, given the highest proportion of participants were able to perform this test early in rehabilitation. However, as locomotor skills improve, other tests (in particular, the 6MWT) have specific clinical utility. To fully enable implementation of these locomotor criteria for prosthetic nonuse into clinical practice, validation is warranted.
Concussion Attitudes and Beliefs, Knowledge, and Clinical Practice: Survey of Physical Therapists
Authors: Yorke Amy M. , Littleton Sheila , Alsalaheen Bara A.
Published: December 2015

Background

A concussion is considered a mild traumatic brain injury that may cause physical, cognitive, affective, and sleep dysfunction. Physical therapists have been identified as health care providers involved in the multidisciplinary care of a patient with concussion.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to describe the current attitudes and beliefs, knowledge, and practice of physical therapists in the treatment of patients with concussion.

Methods

A 55-question electronic survey divided into 6 sections—(1) demographics, (2) current practice in concussion, (3) youth concussion legislation, (4) attitudes and beliefs toward concussion management, (5) concussion knowledge, and (6) clinical decision making—was developed and distributed online through selected American Physical Therapy Association sections.

Results

A total of 1,272 physical therapists completed the survey. Seventy percent of the respondents (n=894) reported having concussion training. Although supportive of the role of the physical therapist in the treatment of a person with concussion, the respondents demonstrated less confidence when making return-to-play decisions. Respondents correctly answered, on average, 13 (out of 15) concussion knowledge questions, with gaps exhibited in understanding the clinical utilization of concussion severity scales, the conservative treatment of youth who sustain a concussion, and anticipated normal computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging after a concussion. When provided with clinical scenarios, respondents were able to recognize when a referral to a physician was indicated; however, they demonstrated variability in identifying a need for vestibular or manual physical therapy.

Limitations

Convenience sampling was utilized, limiting generalizability of the results of the study to the physical therapy profession as a whole.

Conclusion

Physical therapists demonstrated a solid foundation of concussion knowledge, but gaps still existed. Future professional development opportunities should be developed to target identified gaps in knowledge and current practice patterns.
Improving Shoulder Kinematics in Individuals With Paraplegia: Comparison Across Circuit Resistance Training Exercises and Modifications in Hand Position
Authors: Riek Linda M. , Tome Joshua , Ludewig Paula M. , Nawoczenski Deborah A.
Published: December 2015

Background

Circuit resistance training (CRT) should promote favorable kinematics (scapular posterior tilt, upward rotation, glenohumeral or scapular external rotation) to protect the shoulder from mechanical impingement following paraplegia. Understanding kinematics during CRT may provide a biomechanical rationale for exercise positions and exercise selection promoting healthy shoulders.

Objective

The purposes of this study were: (1) to determine whether altering hand position during CRT favorably modifies glenohumeral and scapular kinematics and (2) to compare 3-dimensional glenohumeral and scapular kinematics during CRT exercises.

Hypotheses

The hypotheses that were tested were: (1) modified versus traditional hand positions during exercises improve kinematics over comparable humerothoracic elevation angles, and (2) the downward press demonstrates the least favorable kinematics.

Design

This was a cross-sectional observational study.

Methods

The participants were 18 individuals (14 men, 4 women; 25–76 years of age) with paraplegia. An electromagnetic tracking system acquired 3-dimensional position and orientation data from the trunk, scapula, and humerus during overhead press, chest press, overhead pulldown, row, and downward press exercises. Participants performed exercises in traditional and modified hand positions. Descriptive statistics and 2-way repeated-measures analysis of variance were used to evaluate the effect of modifications and exercises on kinematics.

Results

The modified position improved kinematics for downward press (glenohumeral external rotation increased 4.5° [P=.016; 95% CI=0.7, 8.3] and scapular external rotation increased 4.4° [P<.001; 95% CI=2.5, 6.3]), row (scapular upward rotation increased 4.6° [P<.001; 95% CI=2.3, 6.9]), and overhead pulldown (glenohumeral external rotation increased 18.2° [P<.001, 95% CI=16, 21.4]). The traditional position improved kinematics for overhead press (glenohumeral external rotation increased 9.1° [P=.001; 95% CI=4.1, 14.1], and scapular external rotation increased 5.5° [P=.004; 95% CI=1.8, 9.2]). No difference existed between chest press positions. Downward press (traditional or modified) demonstrated the least favorable kinematics.

Limitations

It is unknown whether faulty kinematics causes impingement or whether pre-existing impingement causes altered kinematics. Three-dimensional modeling is needed to verify whether “favorable” kinematics increase the subacromial space.

Conclusions

Hand position alters kinematics during CRT and should be selected to emphasize healthy shoulder mechanics.
Understanding Mechanobiology: Physical Therapists as a Force in Mechanotherapy and Musculoskeletal Regenerative Rehabilitation
Authors: Thompson William R. , Scott Alexander , Loghmani M. Terry , Ward Samuel R. , Warden Stuart J.
Published: December 2015

Achieving functional restoration of diseased or injured tissues is the ultimate goal of both regenerative medicine approaches and physical therapy interventions. Proper integration and healing of the surrogate cells, tissues, or organs introduced using regenerative medicine techniques are often dependent on the co-introduction of therapeutic physical stimuli. Thus, regenerative rehabilitation represents a collaborative approach whereby rehabilitation specialists, basic scientists, physicians, and surgeons work closely to enhance tissue restoration by creating tailored rehabilitation treatments. One of the primary treatment regimens that physical therapists use to promote tissue healing is the introduction of mechanical forces, or mechanotherapies. These mechanotherapies in regenerative rehabilitation activate specific biological responses in musculoskeletal tissues to enhance the integration, healing, and restorative capacity of implanted cells, tissues, or synthetic scaffolds. To become future leaders in the field of regenerative rehabilitation, physical therapists must understand the principles of mechanobiology and how mechanotherapies augment tissue responses. This perspective article provides an overview of mechanotherapy and discusses how mechanical signals are transmitted at the tissue, cellular, and molecular levels. The synergistic effects of physical interventions and pharmacological agents also are discussed. The goals are to highlight the critical importance of mechanical signals on biological tissue healing and to emphasize the need for collaboration within the field of regenerative rehabilitation. As this field continues to emerge, physical therapists are poised to provide a critical contribution by integrating mechanotherapies with regenerative medicine to restore musculoskeletal function.
Disability Trajectories in Patients With Complaints of Arm, Neck, and Shoulder (CANS) in Primary Care: Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Miedema Harald S. , Feleus Anita , Bierma-Zeinstra Sita M.A. , Hoekstra Trynke , Burdorf Alex , Koes Bart W.
Published: December 2015

Background

Nontraumatic complaints of arm, neck, and shoulder (CANS) represent an important health issue, with a high prevalence in the general working age population and huge economic impact. Nevertheless, only few prospective cohort studies for the outcome of CANS are available.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to identify disability trajectories and associated prognostic factors during a 2-year follow-up of patients with a new episode of CANS in primary care.

Design

This was a prospective cohort study.

Methods

Data of 682 participants were collected through questionnaires at baseline and every 6 months thereafter. Disability was measured with the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (DASH). Latent class growth mixture (LCGM) modeling was used to identify clinically meaningful groups of patients who were similar in their disability trajectory during follow-up. Multivariate multinomial regression analysis was used to evaluate associations between sociodemographic, complaint-related, physical, and psychosocial variables and the identified disability trajectories.

Results

Three disability trajectories were identified: fast recovery (67.6%), modest recovery (23.6%), and continuous high disability (8.8%). A high level of somatization was the most important baseline predictor of continuous high disability. Furthermore, poor general health, widespread complaints, and medium level of somatization were associated with this trajectory and >3 months complaint duration, musculoskeletal comorbidity, female sex, history of trauma, low educational level, low social support, and high complaint severity were associated with both continuous high disability and modest recovery. Age, kinesiophobia, and catastrophizing showed significant associations only with modest recovery.

Limitations

Loss to follow-up ranged from 10% to 22% at each follow-up measurement. Disabilities were assessed only with the DASH and not with physical tests. Misclassification by general practitioners regarding specific or nonspecific diagnostic category might have occurred. The decision for optimal LCGM model, resulting in the disability trajectories, remains arbitrary to some extent.

Conclusions

Three trajectories described the course of disabilities due to CANS. Several prognostic indicators were identified that can easily be recognized in primary care. As some of these prognostic indicators may be amenable for change, their presence in the early stages of CANS may lead to more intensive or additional interventions (eg, psychological or multidisciplinary therapy). Further research focusing on the use of these prognostic indicators in treatment decisions is needed to further substantiate their predictive value.
Criterion Validity of the activPAL Activity Monitor for Sedentary and Physical Activity Patterns in People Who Have Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Larkin Louise , Nordgren Birgitta , Purtill Helen , Brand Charles , Fraser Alexander , Kennedy Norelee
Published: December 2015

Background

Accurate measurement of physical activity and sedentary behavior is an important consideration for health care professionals. The activPAL activity monitor has not been validated against a criterion measure for people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Objective

The objective of this study was to determine the criterion validity of the activPAL activity monitor for measuring step counts, transition counts, and time spent in sedentary, standing, and walking behaviors in people with RA.

Design

A laboratory-based criterion validation study was conducted.

Methods

Participants with a confirmed medical diagnosis of RA were recruited from 2 outpatient rheumatology clinics. The testing procedure consisted of standardized testing components and tasks related to activities of daily living. Participants wore an activPAL activity monitor and were video recorded throughout the testing procedure. Direct observation was used as the criterion measure. Data analysis consisted of validation analysis of the activPAL activity monitor data and the criterion measure data.

Results

Twenty-four people participated in the study. Data from 20 participants were included in the final analysis. The activPAL significantly underestimated step counts by 26% and transition counts by 36%. There was no significant difference between the activPAL activity monitor and the criterion measure for time spent in sedentary, standing or light activity, and walking behaviors.

Limitations

Validation of activities of daily living in a laboratory environment is a limitation of this study.

Conclusions

The activPAL activity monitor underestimated step and transition counts and, therefore, is not valid for measuring these outcomes in people with RA. Relative to direct observation, the activPAL activity monitor is valid for measuring time spent in sedentary, standing, and walking behaviors in people with RA.
Physical Therapists' Ways of Talking About Overweight and Obesity: Clinical Implications
Authors: Setchell Jenny , Watson Bernadette M. , Gard Micheal , Jones Liz
Published: December 2015

Background

How people think and talk about weight is important because it can influence their behavior toward people who are overweight. One study has shown that physical therapists have negative attitudes toward people who are overweight. However, how this finding translates into clinical practice is not well understood. Investigating physical therapists' ways of thinking and speaking about overweight and obesity in the context of their work can provide insight into this underresearched area.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to investigate physical therapists' ways of talking about overweight individuals and discuss clinical implications.

Design

An interpretive qualitative design was used.

Methods

The research team used discourse analysis, a type of inductive qualitative methodology, to guide data collection and analysis. The data came from 6 focus groups of 4 to 6 physical therapists in Queensland, Australia, who discussed weight in a physical therapy environment. Participants (N=27) represented a variety of physical therapy subdisciplines.

Results

Data analysis identified 4 main weight discourses (ways of thinking and speaking about weight). Participants described patients who are overweight as little affected by stigma and difficult to treat. Furthermore, participants portrayed weight as having simple causes and being important in physical therapy. Alternate weight discourses were less frequent in these data.

Conclusions

The results indicated that some physical therapists' understandings of weight might lead to negative interactions with patients who are overweight. The findings suggest physical therapists require more nuanced understandings of: how patients who are overweight might feel in a physical therapy setting, the complexity of causes of weight, and possible benefits and disadvantages of introducing weight-management discussions with patients. Therefore, education should encourage complex understandings of working with patients of all sizes, including knowledge of weight stigma.
Effect of Contralateral Strength Training on Muscle Weakness in People With Multiple Sclerosis: Proof-of-Concept Case Series
Authors: Manca Andrea , Cabboi Maria Paola , Ortu Enzo , Ginatempo Francesca , Dragone Daniele , Zarbo Ignazio Roberto , de Natale Edoardo Rosario , Mureddu Giovanni , Bua Guido , Deriu Franca
Published: December 2015

Background

The contralateral strength training (CST) effect is a transfer of muscle performance to the untrained limb following training of the contralateral side.

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore, in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) presenting marked lower limb strength asymmetry, the effectiveness of CST on management of muscle weakness of the more-affected limb following training of the less-affected limb.

Design

A single-subject research design was used.

Methods

Eight individuals with MS underwent 16 to 18 high-intensity training sessions of the less-affected ankle dorsiflexor muscles. The primary outcome measure of this single-system case series was maximal strength expressed as peak moment and maximal work. Secondary outcome measures were: Six-Minute-Walk Test, Timed “Up & Go” Test, 10-Meter Timed Walk Test, and Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life–54 questionnaire.

Results

After the 6-week intervention, the contralateral more affected (untrained) limb showed a 22% to 24% increase in maximal strength. From pretest-posttest measurements, participants also performed significantly better on the clinical and functional secondary outcome measures. At the 12-week follow-up, the strength levels of the weaker untrained limb remained significantly superior to baseline levels in the majority (5 out of 8) of the outcome parameters.

Limitations

Considering the design used, the absence of a control group, and the sample size, these findings should be cautiously generalized and will need confirmation in a properly planned randomized controlled trial.

Conclusions

The present proof-of-concept study shows, for the first time, the occurrence of the CST effect on muscle performance of ankle dorsiflexor muscles in people with MS. These preliminary findings reveal new potential implications for CST as a promising rehabilitation approach to those conditions where unilateral muscle weakness does not allow or makes difficult performing conventional strength training of the weaker limb.