bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional predictors of school participation by children with disabilities
Authors: Mancini Marisa C. , Coster Wendy J.
Published: March 2006

This study examined the functional requirements that significantly predicted participation of US elementary school children with a variety of disabling conditions (N=266), in seven different school settings: Transportation, Transitions, Regular classroom, Special classroom, Mealtime, Bathroom, and Playground. Performance on a number of setting‐relevant tasks was expected to be predictive of meaningful participation in each school environment. Stepwise multiple regression analyses were conducted to identify the order of importance of the relevant variables as well as the smaller set of functional tasks that best predicted children's participation in each setting. The results revealed that successful participation in the different elementary school settings was strongly associated with performance of both physical and cognitive/behavioural activities. Furthermore, each setting had a unique set of predictors, suggesting that some aspects of function are context‐specific. Findings from this study may inform therapists about the most relevant areas of function that support social and physical participation of children with disabilities who are included in regular schools. Copyright © 2004 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
The development of the School Function Assessment – Chinese version for cross‐cultural use in Taiwan
Authors: Hwang Jeng‐Liang , Nochajski Susan M. , Linn Richard T. , Wu Yow‐Wu B.
Published: March 2006

The primary purpose of this research project was to translate and adapt the School Function Assessment (SFA), a standardized criterion‐referenced instrument that measures school‐related functional skills, for its cross‐cultural use in Taiwan. The project consisted of four study phases: translation, cultural adaptation, pilot testing, and field testing for standardization. A series of rigorous procedures including the method of translation and back‐translation, team consensus for cultural adaptation, and Rasch modelling techniques were used to address various dimensions of cross‐cultural equivalence and psychometric properties of the translated SFA. The protocols that were developed as well as technical issues that were addressed in this project provide useful guidelines for international occupational therapists who are interested in translating and adapting instruments for cross‐cultural use. Copyright © 2004 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Occupational therapists' reported experiences using weighted vests with children with specific developmental disorders
Authors: Olson Laurette J. , Moulton Heather J.
Published: March 2006

The purpose of this study was to identify specific practice patterns of a convenience sample of paediatric occupational therapists and the behavioural changes that they observe when they use weighted vests with children with developmental disorders. Although the practice of weighted vests is accepted clinically, there is little discussion of their use nor is there empirical evidence of their efficacy in the literature. A convenience sample of 51 occupational therapists from different geographic areas of the United States participated in a telephone survey about how they used weighted vests with specific children. This study was a follow‐up to a mail survey about paediatric occupational therapists' opinions and general practice patterns with weighted vests (Olson and Moulton, 2004). Although the interviewees observed some different behavioural changes in children with various developmental disorders when these children used weighted vests, their practice patterns in using the vests were similar across disabilities. The most common behavioural changes noted were increased attention and staying on task. Participants' opinions and practice patterns related to weighted vests are discussed. This study is not generalizable as it utilized a self‐selected group of therapists. However, the findings from the qualitative data can provide direction for future quantitative studies by providing important data about practice patterns that may serve as independent variables examining the effectiveness of weighted vests. Copyright © 2004 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Upper extremity movement pattern of a common drinking task in well elderly women: a pilot study
Authors: Maitra Kinsuk K. , Junkins Michael D.
Published: March 2006

Retraining of the upper limb during neurological rehabilitation often involves preparatory therapeutic exercises of concentric and eccentric nature embedded in purposeful activity. However, empirical baseline studies are lacking to justify efficacy of such training. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of concentric and eccentric exercises on upper extremity movement pattern in healthy elderly persons during a common daily functional task. Nine young women aged between 22 and 23 years and nine elderly women between 70 and 78 years participated in the musculoskeletal study of lifting a cup of water to sip and then lowering the cup back to a table. Two‐dimensional forearm movement kinematics and associated electromyography from biceps and triceps were analysed. Forearm motor performance in the elderly participants were slower and needed more corrections compared to the younger participants. The electromyography revealed that lifting and lowering movements were accomplished by concentric and eccentric muscle firing in the biceps. However, in the elderly the muscle responses were varied suggesting a possible decline in object‐related visuomotor co‐ordination with age. The results indicate that movement patterns and muscular response decline in elderly people during preparatory therapeutic exercises embedded in purposeful activity. The effect of therapeutic exercises on upper limb functional performance needs to be further investigated in patient populations to explore the effectiveness of embedded therapeutic exercises in movement retraining. Small sample number limits the results of the study to be generalized. In addition, future studies should measure movement of more limb and hand segments to gain understanding of the total upper extremity performance during the task. Copyright © 2004 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Functional capacity evaluation reports for clients with personal injury claims: a content analysis
Authors: Allen Shelley , Rainwater Adam , Newbold Anthony , Deacon Naomi , Slatter Kelli
Published: March 2006

Functional capacity evaluations (FCEs) for personal injury claimants are rigorously scrutinized by the stakeholders because of their financial implications. This study examined 51 medico‐legal FCE reports for clients all of whom suffered with spinal pain attributed to a motor vehicle accident. The FCEs were completed by 14 occupational therapists. Content analysis of the FCE reports identified categories and sub‐categories of objective and subjective information on which occupational therapists reported. They included employment, activities of daily living, pain, functional physical capacities and job demands. Recommendations included the suitability of current and future jobs. However, the reasoning behind occupational therapists' recommendations in the FCE reports was frequently not stated. This content analysis demonstrated that these detailed FCE reports had a consistent focus on work capacity; further, the researchers suggest refinements to FCE reporting practices so that findings, recommendations and predictions about work outcomes for clients are interpreted clearly and realistically. Copyright © 2004 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Evaluation of the mentor–mentee relationship in an occupational therapy mentorship programme
Authors: Milner Tracy , Bossers Ann
Published: March 2006

Mentor group relationships in an occupational therapy university curriculum were investigated. In phase I, mentors (n = 23) and mentees (n = 124) were surveyed over a four year period. In phase II, 14 mentees from the same time period were surveyed after graduation. It was found that mentors and mentees surveyed agreed that their mentor group leader displayed more mentoring (i.e. ongoing partnership for guidance and support) than coaching (i.e. short‐term relationship for providing feedback on areas requiring change) characteristics, and most agreed that, post‐graduation, their mentor group leader had been a mentor to them. Mentees viewed their mentors predominantly as a role model or counsellor and emphasized knowledge, experience, guidance, and support as desirable attributes of a mentor. Contact with mentors for resources, support, or job‐related purposes continued after graduation for more than half of mentees. Some mentees reported that peer mentoring had also occurred. Limitations of the study include the small sample size in Phase II and some aspects of survey design. Future areas of research identified include studying the development of the relationship over time (i.e. pre‐, mid‐way, and post‐programme), comparing relationships between mentors and mentees who have similar versus dissimilar expectations for the programme, further examining peer mentoring or group relationships, and continuing post‐graduation surveys with a larger sample size for increased reliability. Copyright © 2004 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Cross‐cultural adaptation of the Sensory Profile: establishing linguistic equivalency of the Hebrew version
Authors: Neuman Ariela , Greenberg David F. , Labovitz Deborah R. , Suzuki Lisa A.
Published: March 2006

In the process of translating assessment tools from one language to another, researchers often run the risk of altering the intended meaning of the test items, and consequently affecting the validity of the assessment tool. In this study, the accuracy of a Hebrew translation of the Sensory Profile (Dunn, 1999) was validated. A multi‐step process, based on back‐translation and the bilingual method was undertaken to examine whether the Hebrew translation was linguistically equivalent to the original Sensory Profile. Quantitative and qualitative measures were used to detect and explain inconsistencies in the translation. The analysis of the back‐translation revealed that the discrepancies found in a number of items stemmed from inaccurate translation or back‐translation, erroneous substitution, omission, or addition of words/phrases, and from substitution of words/phrases because there was no equivalent in the Hebrew language. Of the 59 back‐translated items, which were not linguistically equivalent to the original Sensory Profile items, only 12 items generated inconsistent responses by the bilingual parents. Overall, the responses of the bilingual parents to the Hebrew and the English version were inconsistent in 26 of the 125 Sensory Profile items. The coefficient alpha values in all sections of the Hebrew version (except for section N) were above .70, indicating a good overall reliability. Based on proposed criteria, results indicate that the Hebrew translation of the Sensory Profile is accurate. Inconsistencies found in a number of items may relate to connotation effect, language effect, and measurement errors. Copyright © 2004 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Comparison of clinical reasoning skills in occupational therapy students in the USA and Scotland
Authors: McCannon Robin , Robertson David , Caldwell Jennifer , Juwah Charles , Elfessi Abdulaziz
Published: March 2006

Problem‐based learning (PBL) in occupational therapy (OT) education has become increasingly important. However, the efficacy in identifying clinical reasoning skills has not been well researched. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the utilization of clinical reasoning by students in the USA and Scotland. Thirty OT students were videotaped during a PBL case. Responses were transcribed and compiled into 122 statements. The two primary investigators independently coded each of the responses into one of five categories: Procedural, Interactive, Conditional reasoning, N/A, or Other. Intraclass correlation coefficients reflected strong reliability between the two raters (ICC=0.914). Results of this study indicated that the predominant form of clinical reasoning was procedural in nature (61%) followed by conditional reasoning (27%) and interactive reasoning (12%). Students in Scotland tended to use interactive reasoning more than the students in the USA. Further research is needed to explore educational models to foster clinical reasoning skills in occupational therapy students. Copyright © 2004 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Precursor B lymphoblastic leukemia 32 months after local therapy for a primary extramedullary myeloid cell tumor
Authors: Szinnai Gabor , Cogliatti Sergio B. , Avoledo Pierino , Dirnhofer Stephan , Schmid Ulrico , Kühne Thomas
Published: March 2006

A primary extramedullary myeloid cell tumor (pEMT) of an inguinal lymph node was completely excised without subsequent anti‐tumor therapy in a 6‐year‐old child. Clinical observation and monitoring of blood and bone marrow (BM) did not reveal any pathologic results before 32 months, when a precursor B lymphoblastic leukemia was diagnosed. Identical T‐cell receptor gamma rearrangement in nodal pEMT and in precursor B lymphoblastic leukemia in BM indicates a clonal relationship of these two tumors. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2007;49:1039–1046. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Trilateral retinoblastoma
Authors: Antoneli Célia B.G. , Ribeiro Karina de Cássia B. , Sakamoto Luis Henrique , Chojniak Martha M. , Novaes Paulo Eduardo R.S. , Arias Victor E.A.
Published: March 2006

Background

Trilateral retinoblastoma (TRB) is a syndrome consisting of unilateral or bilateral hereditary retinoblastoma (Rb) associated with an intracranial neuroblastic tumor. Although its incidence is low, the prognosis is very poor. This article reports four cases of TRB and discusses the role of neuroimaging screening for early detection.

Procedure

From January 1986 to December 2003, 470 children with Rb were admitted to the Pediatrics and Ophthalmology Departments, A C Camargo Hospital, São Paulo, Brazil.

Results

There were four patients with pineoblastoma, two of whom had a positive familial history. The age at diagnosis of Rb was 4, 6, 10, and 24 months while the age of diagnosis of TRB was 10, 25, 57, and 72 months. One patient presented TRB at initial diagnosis of Rb. Three patients had bilateral disease and all of them had one eye enucleated, followed by chemotherapy and/or external beam radiation therapy (EBRT). One child with unilateral disease was only submitted to enucleation. In spite of intensive treatment, all patients died with progressive disease within 7, 8, 12, and 12 months after diagnosis of TRB.

Conclusions

Early diagnosis as well as new therapeutic approaches are needed to achieve better results. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2007;48:306–310. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Flow‐induced warpage of injection‐molded TLCP fiber‐reinforced polypropylene composites
Authors: DePolo W.S. , Baird D.G.
Published: March 2006

The most common belief is that warpage in injection‐molded fiber‐reinforced thermoplastics is primarily attributed to residual thermal stresses associated with shrinkage and thermal contraction of the parts. Therefore, it is assumed that flow‐induced stresses generated during mold filling do not play a significant role. Injection‐molded plaques of polypropylene (PP) reinforced with pregenerated thermotropic liquid crystalline polymer (TLCP) microfibrils were generated in order to investigate the role of residual flow‐induced stresses relative to that of thermal stresses on the warpage. In an effort to relate the material parameters to warpage, the rheological behavior of these fiber‐filled systems was investigated. The shrinkage and the thermal expansion of the TLCP/PP composites, and hence, the thermally induced stresses decreased with an increase in fiber loading while the flow‐induced stresses increased. The increase in the flow‐induced stresses was attributed to increased relaxation times (this is not the only cause, but is a significant factor) with an increase in fiber loading. Therefore, it was found that in order to accurately predict the warpage of fiber‐reinforced thermoplastics, the flow‐induced residual stresses must be accounted for. It is expected that the results reported here can be extended to glass‐reinforced PP composites as well. POLYM. COMPOS., 27:239–248, 2006. © 2006 Society of Plastics Engineers
Synthesis and characterization of thermotropic liquid crystalline poly(aryl ether ketone) copolymers with pendant 3‐(trifluoromethyl) phenyl groups
Authors: Wang Guibin , Jiang Zhenhua , Zhang Shuling , Chen Chunhai , Wu Zhongwen
Published: March 2006

Novel poly(aryl ether ketone) copolymers with pendant 3‐(trifluoromethyl)phenyl groups were synthesized by the reaction of a crystal‐disrupting monomer, 3‐(trifluoromethyl)phenylhydroquinone (FH) and a mesogenic monomer, 4,4′‐biphenol (BP) with 1,4‐bis(p‐fluorobenzoyl)benzene (BF). Thermotropic liquid crystalline behavior of the copolymers was investigated by means of differential scanning calorimetry, polarized optical microscope and wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction. As a result, the copolymers with the respective molar ratios of FH/BP/BF of 0/100/100–10/90/100 and 80/20/100–100/0/100 were semi‐crystalline without liquid crystalline properties, and amorphous polymers, respectively. In contrast, copolymers with the molar ratio of FH/BP/BF of 20/80/100–70/30/100 had liquid crystalline characteristics. Interestingly, the formation of a highly ordered smectic phase was confirmed for copolymers with the molar ratio of FH/BP/BF of 20/80/100–50/50/100, respectively. All the liquid crystalline copolymers had a wide liquid crystalline temperature range (57–75 °C). Copyright © 2006 Society of Chemical Industry
Influence of the degree of grafting on the morphology and mechanical properties of blends of poly(butylene terephthalate) and glycidyl methacrylate grafted poly(ethylene‐co‐propylene) (EPR)
Authors: Sun SL , Tan ZY , Zhang MY , Yang HD , Zhang HX
Published: March 2006

Poly(ethylene‐co‐propylene) (EPR) was functionalized to varying degrees with glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) by melt grafting processes. The EPR‐graft‐GMA elastomers were used to toughen poly(butylene terephthalate) (PBT). Results showed that the grafting degree strongly influenced the morphology and mechanical properties of PBT/EPR‐graft‐GMA blends. Compatibilization reactions between the carboxyl and/or hydroxyl of PBT and epoxy groups of EPR‐graft‐GMA induced smaller dispersed phase sizes and uniform dispersed phase distributions. However, higher degrees of grafting (>1.3) and dispersed phase contents (>10 wt%) led to higher viscosities and severe crosslinking reactions in PBT/EPR‐graft‐GMA blends, resulting in larger dispersed domains of PBT blends. Consistent with the change in morphology, the impact strength of the PBT blends increased with the increase in EPR‐graft‐GMA degrees of grafting for the same dispersion phase content when the degree of grafting was below 1.8. However, PBT/EPR‐graft‐GMA1.8 displayed much lower impact strength in the ductile region than a comparable PBT/EPR‐graft‐GMA1.3 blend (1.3 indicates degree of grafting). Morphology and mechanical results showed that EPR‐graft‐GMA 1.3 was more suitable in improving the toughness of PBT. SEM results showed that the shear yielding properties of the PBT matrix and cavitation of rubber particles were major toughening mechanisms. Copyright © 2006 Society of Chemical Industry
How to model the behaviour of organic photovoltaic cells
Authors: Moliton André , Nunzi Jean‐Michel
Published: March 2006

In this paper we discuss the optimization of various parameters which govern the behaviour of polymer based and organic photovoltaic cells. General mechanisms leading to the generation of charge carriers and the related loss factors are detailed. Theoretical electrical parameters for bilayer and interpenetrating networks of donors and acceptors (open circuit voltages) are established along with current versus voltage characteristics. An equivalent circuit to a solar cell, considering the effects of shunt resistance across the whole layer, is elaborated. After modelling optical interference and its effects on the photocurrent spectrum, orders of magnitude of the required parameters are established for an efficient solar cell. Deviations from optimal values and their effects on the current–voltage characteristics are discussed. Ageing and degradation effects, and calculations demonstrating the necessary photophysical requirements to achieve long‐term stable devices are presented. Copyright © 2006 Society of Chemical Industry
Photovoltaics energy payback times, greenhouse gas emissions and external costs: 2004–early 2005 status
Authors: Fthenakis Vasilis , Alsema Erik
Published: March 2006

Life cycle assessments and external cost estimates of photovoltaics have been often based on old data that do not reflect the extensive technological progress made over the past decade. Our assessment uses current (2004–early 2005) manufacturing data, from twelve European and US photovoltaic companies, and establishes the Energy Payback Times (EPBT), Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions and external environmental costs of current commercial PV technologies. Estimates of external costs are about 70% lower than those in recent high‐impact publications which were derived from the old data. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sequence‐controlled cationic ring‐opening copolymerization of spiroorthocarbonate and oxetane
Authors: Nagai Daisuke , Nishida Masaki , Ochiai Bungo , Miyazaki Koji , Endo Takeshi
Published: March 2006

Pseudo block and triblock copolymers were synthesized by the cationic ring‐opening copolymerization of 1,5,7,11‐tetraoxaspiro[5.5]undecane (SOC1) with trimethylene oxide (OX) via one‐shot and two‐shot procedures, respectively. When SOC1 and OX were copolymerized cationically with boron trifluoride etherate (BF3OEt2) as an initiator in CH2Cl2 at 25 °C, OX was consumed faster than SOC1. SOC1 was polymerized from the OX‐rich gradient copolymer produced in the initial stage of the copolymerization to afford the corresponding pseudo block copolymer, poly [(OX‐grad‐SOC1)‐b‐SOC1]. We also succeeded in the synthesis of a pseudo triblock copolymer by the addition of OX during the course of the polymerization of SOC1 before its complete consumption, which provided the corresponding pseudo triblock copolymer, poly[SOC1‐b‐(OX‐grad‐SOC1)‐b‐SOC1]. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 3233–3241, 2006
Synthesis and chiroptical properties of optically active polymer liquid crystals containing azobenzene chromophores
Authors: Zheng Zhi , Xu Jie , Sun Youyi , Zhou Jingli , Chen Biao , Zhang Qijin , Wang Keyi
Published: March 2006

A series of optically active methacrylic homopolymers, poly[(4‐{4′‐[(S)‐2‐methyl‐1‐butyloxycarbonyl]phenylazo}phenoxyl)x‐methylene methacrylate] (x = 0, 2, 6, or 11), were synthesized. The structures of the polymers were characterized by IR, 1H NMR, UV, differential scanning calorimetry, and gel permeation chromatography. The chiroptical properties of the polymers in films were investigated with circular dichroism (CD) measurements. The CD and UV spectra of the films suggested that CD absorptions occurred in the films of the polymers with long spacers (x = 6 or 11) but not in the films of the polymers with short spacers (x = 0 or 2). After irradiation with linearly polarized light at 442 nm, the CD values were amplified in all the polymeric films. The amplificatory values of the CD bands in the absorption region (260–360 nm) of azobenzene chromophores suggested that the spacer length had an effect on both the transfer of chirality and photoinduced chirality in the polymeric films. The largest level of photoinduced chirality was induced in the polymer containing six methylene units. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 3210–3219, 2006
2′ Substituted sergeants influencing the deoxy soldiers in folded oligonucleotides
Authors: Park Jeong‐il , Roth Shoshannah L. , Price Kristin E. , McQuade D. Tyler
Published: March 2006

We demonstrate that conformational‐biased monomers can alter neighboring monomer conformation leading to globe changes in polymer topology. This work is compared to the “sergeants and soldiers” effect observed when a small percentage of optically active monomers control a polymer's helical handedness. Specifically, we show that one biased monomer in a sequence of flexible monomers yields an oligonucleotide block copolymer that folds into two topologies with competitive free energies and activation barriers (from an unfolded state). Double substitutions, on the other hand, have varying degrees of influence depending on the position of the second substitution. Substitutions within the same guanosine block have a lesser effect relative to substitutions in different blocks. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 3271–3278, 2006
Random multiblock poly(ester amide)s containing poly(L‐lactide) and cycloaliphatic amide segments: Synthesis and biodegradation studies
Authors: Luckachan Gisha Elizabeth , Pillai C. K. S.
Published: March 2006

Novel multiblock poly(ester amide)s containing poly(L‐lactide) and cycloaliphatic amide segments were synthesized from telechelic oligomer of α,ω‐hydroxyl terminated poly(L‐lactide), 1,3‐cyclohexylbis(methylamine), and sebacoylchloride by the “two‐step” interfacial polycondensation method. The blocky nature of PEAs was established by FTIR and 1H NMR spectroscopies. The effect of relative content of ester and amide segments on the crystallization nature of PEAs was investigated by WAXD and DSC analyses. PEAs having lower content of PLLA, PEA 1 and PEA 2, showed a crystallization pattern analogous to polyamides, whereas PEA 3, having higher content of PLLA, showed two crystalline phases characterized by polyester and polyamide segments. Random nature of PEAs was observed from single Tg values. Biodegradation studies using the enzyme lipase from Candida Cylindracea showed higher degradation rate for PEA 3 than that for PEA 1 and PEA 2. FTIR, 1H NMR, and DSC analyses of the degraded products indicated the involvement of ester linkages in the degradation process. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 3250–3260, 2006
Synthesis of poly(methyl methacrylate)‐b‐polystyrene containing a crown ether unit at the junction point via combination of atom transfer radical polymerization and nitroxide mediated radical polymerization routes
Authors: Altintas Ozcan , Yilmaz Ismail , Hizal Gurkan , Tunca Umit
Published: March 2006

Poly(methyl methacrylate)‐b‐polystyrene (PMMA‐b‐PS) containing a benzo‐15‐crown‐5 unit at the junction point was prepared by combining atom transfer radical polymerization and nitroxide‐mediated radical polymerization. For this purpose, 6,7,9,10,12,13,15,16‐octahydro‐5,8,11,14,17‐pentaoxa‐benzocyclopentadecene‐2‐carboxylic acid 3‐(2‐bromo‐2‐methyl‐propionyloxy)‐2‐methyl‐2‐[2‐phenyl‐2‐(2,2,6,6‐tetramethyl‐piperidin‐1‐yloxy)‐ethoxycarbonyl]‐propyl ester (3) was synthesized and used as an initiator in atom transfer radical polymerization of methyl methacrylate in the presence of CuCl and pentamethyldiethylenetriamine at 60°C. A linear behavior was observed in both plots of ln([M]0/[M]) versus time and Mn,GPC versus conversion indicating that the polymerization proceeded in a controlled/living manner. Thus obtained PMMA precursor was used as a macroinitiator in nitroxide‐mediated radical polymerization of styrene (St) at 125°C to give well‐defined PMMA‐b‐PS with crown ether per chain. Kinetic data were also obtained for copolymerization. Moreover, potassium picrate (K+ picrate) complexation of 3 and PMMA‐b‐PS copolymer was studied. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 3242–3249, 2006
Synthesis and characterization of hyperbranched‐poly(siloxysilane)‐based polymeric photoinitiators
Authors: Si Qing‐Fa , Fan Xiao‐Dong , Liu Yu‐Yang , Kong Jie , Wang Sheng‐Jie , Qiao Wen‐Qiang
Published: March 2006

Three UV‐sensitive, hyperbranched‐poly(siloxysilane)‐based polymeric photoinitiators, bearing an alkyl phenone moiety linked to the surface of the hyperbranched polymer, were synthesized via the hydrosilylation of hyperbranched poly(siloxysilane) and modified UV‐sensitive compounds. Hyperbranched poly(siloxysilane) was prepared via the polyhydrosilylation of the AB2‐type monomer methylvinyldichlorosilane. The chemical structures of the polymeric photoinitiators were characterized with 1H, 13C, and 29Si NMR, elemental analysis, Fourier transform infrared, differential scanning calorimetry, UV spectrophotometry, and thermogravimetric analysis. The UV‐curing behaviors of the blends of the hyperbranched polymeric photoinitiators with UV‐curable epoxy acrylate (EA) resin were determined by Fourier transform infrared, and the results showed that the initiation efficiency of the polymeric photoinitiators was excellent and that the thermostability of the EA/polymeric photoinitiator curing systems was higher than that of the EA/photoinitiators. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 3261–3270, 2006
Does stretching induce lasting increases in joint ROM? A systematic review
Authors: Harvey Lisa , Herbert Robert , Crosbie Jack
Published: March 2006

Background and Purpose

Stretching (that is, interventions that apply tension to soft tissues) induces increases in the extensibility of soft tissues, and is therefore widely administered to increase joint mobility and reverse contractures. However, it is not clear whether the effects of stretching are lasting. A systematic review was conducted to determine if stretching (either self‐administered, administered manually by therapists or by some external device such as a splint) produces lasting increases in the mobility of joints not directly affected by surgery, trauma or disease processes.

Method

In order to determine the lasting effects of stretching, only studies that measured joint range of motion (ROM) at least one day after the cessation of stretching were included. MEDLINE (from 1966 to June 2000), EMBASE (from 1988 to June 2000), the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register and PEDro databases were searched, and citation tracking was used to identify randomized studies that met the inclusion criteria. Each study was rated by two independent assessors on the PEDro scale, which rated trials according to criteria such as concealed allocation, blinding and intention‐to‐treat analysis.

Results

Thirteen studies satisfied the inclusion criteria. All examined the effect of stretching (median number of stretch sessions = eight) on joint ROM in healthy subjects without functionally significant contractures. Four studies were of ‘moderate’ quality and the remaining nine were of ‘poor’ quality. The ‘moderate’ quality studies suggest that regular stretching increases joint ROM (mean increase in ROM = 8°;95% CI 6° to 9°) for more than one day after cessation of stretching and possibly that the effects of stretching are greater in muscle groups with limited extensibility.

Conclusions

The results of four ‘moderate’ quality studies show a convincing effect of stretching in people without functionally significant contracture. These findings require verification with high‐quality studies. Lasting effects of intensive stretching programmes (for example, stretching applied for more than six weeks or for more than 20 minutes a day) or of stretching on people with functionally significant contracture have not yet been investigated with randomized studies. Copyright © 2002 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Can early extubation and intensive physiotherapy decrease length of stay of acute quadriplegic patients in intensive care? A retrospective case control study
Authors: Berney Sue , Stockton Kellie , Berlowitz David , Denehy Linda
Published: March 2006

Background and Purpose

Respiratory complications remain a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the acute quadriplegic patient population. The literature has suggested that early insertion of a tracheostomy facilitated pulmonary management and an earlier discharge from the intensive care unit (ICU). Recently, a change in practice has meant that these patients are considered for extubation and intensive physiotherapy treatment, including an overnight on‐call service, rather than tracheostomy. The aim of the present retrospective, case‐controlled study was to determine if either practice resulted in a difference in length of stay in intensive care and if an on‐call physiotherapy service for these patients was cost effective.

Method

A case control design was used. Between April 1997 and November 1999, seven patients who did not require a tracheostomy were identified; case control subjects were matched for severity with seven patients who did receive a tracheostomy. Length of stay in intensive care and on the acute ward, days from injury to fixation and the overall number of respiratory physiotherapy and night physiotherapy treatments were recorded.

Results

Five of the seven patients in the non‐tracheostomy group received on‐call overnight physiotherapy treatment, with an average of five sessions over a total of three nights. This group's length of stay in an ICU was significantly less than patients who were tracheostomized (p = 0.02). The overall number of physiotherapy treatments between the two groups was not significantly different.

Conclusions

The results of this study suggest that if extubation and intensive physiotherapy is undertaken for suitable patients, the length of stay in intensive care can be significantly reduced. This represents a considerable cost saving for ICUs and more than covers the added cost of providing an after hours on‐call physiotherapy treatment service. A prospective evaluation is required to confirm these findings. Copyright © 2002 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
What do Swedish physiotherapists feel about research? A survey of perceptions, attitudes, intentions and engagement
Authors: Kamwendo Kitty
Published: March 2006

Background and Purpose

Although the past decades have witnessed an increase in physiotherapy research, there remains a concern about the translation of research into clinical practice, a problem that to date has attracted relatively limited interest. The aim of the present study was to investigate perceptions and attitudes toward research, intentions to perform as well as actual engagement in research‐related activities in a sample of Swedish physiotherapists.

Method

A cross‐sectional design was used, and 343 Swedish physiotherapists responded to a postal questionnaire (representing a response rate of 61.7%). Questions about research‐related activities were measured on a Likert‐type scale, whereas questions referring to attitudes toward research used a semantic differential scale.

Results

The physiotherapists considered research as an important part of their professional role. Reading research literature was perceived as the most important research activity, and all mean attitude ratings were on the positive side of the scale. High workload and lack of time were the most commonly mentioned barriers to participation in research‐related activities. Although Swedish physiotherapists read a large variety of journals, they most frequently read in their own language.

Conclusions

The physiotherapists in this study were generally positive about research, which offers hope for an increased use of evidence‐based practice in the future. In order to facilitate this development, easily accessible summaries could be provided. A cultural change within the profession, allowing more time for reading and discussing research reports should be encouraged. Copyright © 2002 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Beneficial therapeutic effects of physical training and relaxation therapy in women with coronary syndrome X
Authors: Tyni‐Lenne Raija , Stryjan Signe , Eriksson Björn , Berglund Margareta , Sylven Christer
Published: March 2006

Background and Purpose

New types of illness are being identified continuously. Owing to the demands for evidence‐based practice, physiotherapeutic interventions need to be investigated scientifically prior to application in a new patient population. Coronary syndrome X (syndrome X) is a chronic pain disorder with exercise‐induced chest pain despite angiographically normal coronary arteries. Patients with syndrome X constitute a therapeutic problem with considerable residual morbidity associated with functional limitation and reduced quality of life. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of physical training and relaxation therapy on exercise capacity and quality of life in patients with syndrome X.

Method

A single‐blind, randomized controlled trial design was used. Twenty‐four female patients aged 41–65 years were randomly assigned to three groups: A, B and C. All groups were similar at baseline for physical fitness level. Group A performed physical training for eight weeks at 50% of baseline VO2max and group B participated in relaxation therapy for eight weeks. Group C acted as control subjects without any intervention. Before and after the eight‐week periods, subjects were assessed by means of several measures of exercise capacity and quality of life.

Results

The measured variables did not change in the control group during the eight weeks. VO2max (<0.02), work rate (<0.002) and distance walked during six minutes (<0.003) increased only after physical training. The tolerated exertion during six minutes of walking (<0.05) and the health‐related quality of life, measured both by the Stress and Crisis Inventory (SCI) and the Sickness Impact Profile (SIP) (<0.04), improved after both physical training and relaxation therapy. The general coping capacity, measured by the Sense of Coherence (SOC) questionnaire, remained unchanged in all the groups.

Conclusions

Female patients with syndrome X benefit from physical training in terms of exercise capacity and quality of life and from relaxation therapy in terms of quality of life. Copyright © 2002 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Feedback withdrawal and changing compliance during manual hyperinflation
Authors: Hila Julie , Ellis Elizabeth , Holmes Wendy
Published: March 2006

Background and Purpose

The performance of manual hyperinflation by physiotherapists can be improved by the availability of a pressure manometer. The present study aimed to test whether these benefits could be maintained when the manometer is withdrawn and whether the availability of a manometer affects the pressures delivered under changing respiratory compliances.

Method

Manual hyperinflation breaths were delivered to a test lung by student physiotherapists, with a target peak airway pressure of 30 cm H2O under control, feedback and feedback‐withdrawal conditions. The breaths were delivered for three trials under each testing condition at each of three respiratory compliance settings.

Results

The availability of augmented feedback increased the accuracy and reduced the variability of performance; however, these improvements were not maintained when feedback was withdrawn. Changing respiratory compliance significantly affected the accuracy and variability during the control and withdrawal conditions, but the availability of a manometer negated these differences.

Conclusions

The availability of a pressure manometer negates the influence of respiratory compliance on the achievement of target peak airway pressures during manual hyperinflation in the laboratory environment, however these benefits are not retained when feedback is withdrawn. Therefore, it is recommended that a pressure manometer should be routinely available during manual hyperinflation in clinical practice to optimize treatment safety and effectiveness. Copyright © 2002 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Instructing pelvic floor contraction facilitates transversus abdominis thickness increase during low‐abdominal hollowing
Authors: Critchley Duncan
Published: March 2006

Background and Purpose

Low abdominal hollowing in four‐point kneeling is used clinically to test and rehabilitate transversus abdominis (TrA) but many people find this exercise difficult to perform. Contracting pelvic floor muscles (PF) during low abdominal hollowing may facilitate contraction of TrA. Thickness increase in the abdominal muscles during low abdominal hollowing has been measured with real‐time ultrasound scanning and may indicate muscle contraction. The present study investigated the effect of instructing PF contraction on TrA thickness increase during low abdominal hollowing.

Method

Twelve females and eight males with no reported pelvic floor dysfunction or low back pain in the last two years were taught low abdominal hollowing in four‐point kneeling. Subjects performed low abdominal hollowing with and without instruction to contract PF in random order. Transversus abdominis, obliquus internus (OI) and obliquus externus (OE) thickness were measured with ultrasound scanning at rest and during both tests.

Results

Mean increase in TrA thickness during low abdominal hollowing was 49.71% (SD 26.76%), during low abdominal hollowing with PF it was 65.81% (SD 23.53%). Paired Student's t‐tests indicated a significant difference between tests (p=0.015). There were no significant differences between tests for OE or OI thickness increase.

Conclusions

Instructing healthy subjects to co‐contract PF results in greater increase in TrA thickness during low abdominal hollowing in four‐point kneeling. This may indicate greater contraction of TrA and thus be useful for clinicians training TrA. Further research could investigate the validity of change of thickness as a measure of abdominal muscle contraction, investigate the effect of instructing PF co‐contraction on TrA in patients with low back pain and measure PF and TrA activity simultaneously. Copyright © 2002 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Correlation of impairment and activity limitation after wrist fracture
Authors: Tremayne Aurelia , Taylor Nicholas , Mcburney Helen , Baskus Kris
Published: March 2006

Background and Purpose

During physiotherapy rehabilitation, judgements about activity limitation are often based on measurements of impairment. The present paper reports an investigation into the relationship between measurements of impairment and activity limitation in people with a fracture of the distal radius.

Method

Twenty people with a fracture of the distal radius were referred to physiotherapy after conservative management of their fractures. Measurements of impairment (grip strength and range of wrist extension) and activity limitation (Jebsen Test of Hand Function) were taken at the second physiotherapy appointment after cast removal. The scores between these measurements were correlated.

Results

There were strong and significant correlations (−0.51< rs < −0.76) between grip strength and the tasks of the Jebsen Test of Hand Function. The relationship between range of wrist extension and the Jebsen Test of Hand Function was weaker (−0.17 < rs < −0.55). However, subgroup analysis of those subjects with a Colles' type fracture of the distal radius demonstrated significant relationships between wrist extension and three of the seven activity tasks (−0.74 < rs < −0.84).

Conclusions

Preliminary evidence was found to support the physiotherapy practice of use of measurement of impairment to monitor progress in a person with a fracture of the distal radius. Copyright © 2002 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
A comparison of the effects of manual and ventilator hyperinflation on static lung compliance and sputum production in intubated and ventilated intensive care patients
Authors: Berney Susan , Denehy Linda
Published: March 2006

Background and Purpose

Lung hyperinflation is a technique used by physiotherapists to mobilize and remove excess bronchial secretions, reinflate areas of pulmonary collapse and improve oxygenation. Hyperinflation may be delivered by the ventilator or manually, by use of a manual resuscitation circuit, depending upon the respiratory and cardiovascular status of the patient. The effects of manual hyperinflation, with respect to excess bronchial secretions and static lung compliance, have been well‐established. There is, however, only limited evidence as to the efficacy of ventilator hyperinflation as a physiotherapy treatment technique. The purpose of the present study was to compare the effects of manual hyperinflation and ventilator hyperinflation on static pulmonary compliance and sputum clearance in stable intubated and ventilated patients.

Method

Twenty patients who met the inclusion criteria were studied. This was a double crossover study where all patients were randomly allocated to one of two treatment sequences over two days. The first sequence involved manual hyperinflation followed two hours later by ventilator hyperinflation and the order was reversed on the second day. In the second sequence, ventilator hyperinflation preceded manual hyperinflation. The variables of static pulmonary compliance and sputum wet weight were analysed by use of an analysis of variance (ANOVA) for repeated measures. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results

There was no significant difference in sputum wet weight production between either technique or on either day of treatment. Static pulmonary compliance improved with both hyperinflation techniques (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Hyperinflation as part of a physiotherapy treatment can be performed with equal benefit using either a manual resuscitation circuit or a ventilator. Both methods of hyperinflation improve static pulmonary compliance and clear similar volumes of pulmonary secretions. Copyright © 2002 Whurr Publishers Ltd.
Are cervical physical outcome measures influenced by the presence of symptomatology?
Authors: Sterling Michele , Jull Gwendolen , Carlsson Ylva , Crommert Louise
Published: March 2006

Background and Purpose

Outcome measures must be repeatable over time to judge changes as a result of treatment. It is unknown whether the presence of neck pain can affect measurement reliability over a time period when some change could be expected as a result of an intervention. The present study investigated the reliability of two measures, active cervical range of movement (AROM) and pressure pain thresholds (PPTs), in symptomatic and asymptomatic subjects.

Method

A repeated‐measures study design with one week between testing sessions was used. Nineteen healthy asymptomatic subjects and 19 subjects with chronic neck pain participated in the study. The neck movements measured were: flexion, extension, right and left lateral flexion, and axial rotation. PPTs were measured over six bilateral sites, both local and remote to the cervical spine.

Results

The between‐week intra‐class correlation coefficients (ICCs2,1) for AROM ranged from 0.67 to 0.93 (asymptomatic group) and from 0.64 to 0.88 (chronic neck pain group). Standard error of measurement (SEM) was similar in both groups, from 2.66° to 5.59° (asymptomatic group) and from 2.36° to 6.72° (chronic neck pain group). ICCs2,1 for PPTs ranged from 0.70 to 0.91 (asymptomatic group) and from 0.69 to 0.92 (chronic neck pain group). SEM ranged from 11.14 to 87.71 kPa (asymptomatic group) and from 14.25 to 102.95 kPa (chronic neck pain group).

Conclusions

The findings of moderate to very high between‐week reliability of measures of AROM and PPTs in both asymptomatic and chronic neck pain subjects suggest the presence of symptomatology does not adversely affect reliability of these measures. The results support the use of these measures for monitoring change in chronic neck pain conditions. Copyright © 2002 Whurr Publishers Ltd.