bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Gender Differences in Work Performance on the Baltimore Therapeutic Equipment Work Simulator
Authors: Esmail S. , Bhambhani Y. , Brintnell S. 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
Objectives. The purposes of this study were to (a) establish biomechanical and physiological normative data for healthy young women performing three tasks on the Baltimore Therapeutic Equipment work simulator (BTE): wheel-turn, push-pull, and overhead-reach; and (b) compare these data with previously reported values for healthy men of a similar age group.
Method. Twenty women completed five test sessions: (a) task familiarization on the BTE to determine the work intensity that was perceived as hard on the Borg scale, (b) incremental test on an arm crank ergometer to measure peak oxygen uptake (VO2) and peak heart rate (HR), and (c) one of the three tasks in random order for 4 min during the next three sessions. Physiological responses were monitored with a metabolic cart interfaced with an electrocardiogram.
Results. Torque, work, and power during the three tasks were significantly higher (p &lt;.05) in men than in women. The absolute VO2 (L. min-1) during these tasks was higher in men, but when the VO2 was calculated relative to body weight (ml.kg-1 .min-1). no significant (p &gt; .05) gender differences were observed. Computation of energy expenditure relative to body weight and power output (cal.kg-1 .W-1) indicated that women expended significantly (p &lt; .05) more energy than men. No significant (p &gt; .05) gender differences were observed for VO2 and HR when the values were expressed as a percentage of their respective peaks.
Conclusions. Findings indicated that (a) the functional work capacity is significantly lower in women than in men, (b) women are less efficient than men when the energy expenditure is expressed per unit of body weight and power output, and (c) the relative physiological stress in men and women is similar under these conditions.
The Allen Cognitive Level Test and Social Competence in Adult Psychiatric Patients
Authors: Penny Neil H. , Mueser Kim T. , Thomas North C. 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
Objectives. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between cognitive disability and social skills in an acute care adult inpatient psychiatric population (n = 55).
Method. Independent ratings of patient’s social skills were made during a semistructured interview using the Social Interaction Test (SIT), followed by measurement of cognitive disability using the revised Allen Cognitive Level Test (ACL-90). Reliability of the assessments was established.
Results. Significant correlations were found between the ACL-90 and SIT scores: patients with greater cognitive disability had poorer social skills. ACL-90 scores were not related to gender or diagnosis. A gender difference was found for SIT scores with women having better social skills than men.
Conclusion. These findings suggest there is a relationship between cognitive disability and social skills in adult psychiatric inpatients. Implications for occupational therapy treatment include better integration of the grading of the cognitive and social requirements of tasks to achieve optimal functioning.
Use of Occupational Therapists in Mental Health Settings in South Carolina
Authors: Trickey Becki A. , Kennedy Doris Beth 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
Objectives. Severe workforce shortages in occupational therapy require an examination of viable practice areas for occupational therapists. The mental health practice area has experienced greater shortages than have other areas of occupational therapy; in South Carolina, only 2% of occupational therapists work in mental health. This study was undertaken to examine the use of occupational therapists in mental health settings in South Carolina.
Method. A survey was sent to administrators at 52 South Carolina mental health facilities to collect information on the use of occupational therapists, the associated economic issues, and the perception of the roles of occupational therapists.
Results. Among the 34 respondents, 39% hired occupational therapists on a part-time or contractual basis, and 17% had full-time occupational therapist positions; 33% hired certified occupational therapy assistants on a part-time or contractual basis, and 11% had full-time certified occupational therapy assistant positions. Occupational therapy positions decreased over a 5-year period, and respondents cited the cost of salaries and problematic recruitment as two of the major contributing factors. The need for occupational therapy services was ranked as the number one factor both for increased and decreased use of occupational therapists. Personnel factors were highly ranked for facilities with decreased use whereas patient-related factors were highly ranked for facilities with increased use.
Conclusion. The findings highlight factors that may contribute to recent trends of fewer occupational therapists in South Carolina choosing mental health as a primary practice area.
Performance of Americans and Israelis With Cerebrovascular Accident on the Loewenstein Occupational Therapy Cognitive Assessment (LOTCA)
Authors: Cermak Sharon A. , Katz Noomi , McGuire Elizabeth , Greenbaum Sara , Peralta Chrys , Maser-Flanagan Valerie 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
Objective. The Loewenstein Occupational Therapy Cognitive Assessment (LOTCA) measures the cognitive performance of persons with cerebrovascular accident(CVA). Although this assessment was developed and standardized in Israel, it is frequently used in the United States. The purpose of this study was to identify whether differences in performance on the LOTCA existed between Americans and Israelis who have had strokes. Additionally, this study was designed to compare the performance of persons with right CVA with the performance of persons with left CVA because the normative data for the LOTCA does not include separate information for these two groups.
Method. The LOTCA was administered to 25 Americans with CVA (19 right CVA and 6 left CVA) and 56 Israelis with CVA (26 right CVA and 30 left CVA).
Results. On the majority of LOTCA subtests, there were no significant differences between American and Israeli subjects. Only one subtest, Orientation to Time, revealed significant differences between Americans and Israeli subjects both for subjects with right CVA and subjects with left CVA. Examination of subjects with right CVA versus subjects with left CVA also indicated few differences. Only one subtest, Pegboard Construction, revealed significant differences between subjects with right CVA and subjects with left CVA for both American and Israeli subjects.
Conclusion. The LOTCA is an appropriate tool for occupational therapists to use in assessing Americans who have had strokes. In addition, for the most part, the subtests of the LOTCA assess cognitive-perceptual abilities that are not specific to the right or left cerebral hemisphere.
The Effect of Environmental Regulations on Postural Control After Stroke
Authors: Abreu Beatriz C. 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
Objectives. The primary objective of this study was to examine the effect of environmental predictability on postural control after stroke. A reaching task for seated subjects was used as the postural perturbation. Trajectory stability (the pathway followed by the subject’s body center of pressure with respect to time during the reaching task) was used as the index of postural control. It was hypothesized that trajectory stability would be greater under predictable conditions.
Method. A specially designed electromechanical system was used to measure the trajectory stability ratios for 100 subjects, 50 with poststroke hemiplegia and 50 who had not had stroke. All subjects completed a task that required reaching to the left versus reaching to the right, under predictable versus unpredictable conditions. Postural control was measured via a trajectory instability ratio in both the anterior-posterior and medial-lateral planes.
Results. Although the effect of predictability on postural control was significant, it was not as hypothesized for both groups. There was greater trajectory stability under unpredictable conditions when reaching to the right as measured in both the anterior-posterior and medial-lateral planes and when reaching to the left as measured in the medial-lateral plane.
Conclusion. These findings refute the assumption of the hierarchical, predictable-to-unpredictable-environment model for postural control evaluation and treatment. The relationship between information processing demands and postural skill is probably more complex than the simple linear association implied. Perhaps the two conditions, predictable and unpredictable, should be worked on concurrently, not sequentially.
An Exploratory Study of How Occupational Therapists Develop Therapeutic Relationships With Family Caregivers
Authors: Clark Catherine A. , Corcoran Mary , Gitlin Laura N. 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
Family members, who provide 70% to 80% of all long-term care, have often been perceived by occupational therapists as a barrier to, rather than a partner in, effective care for elderly persons. This perception suggests that in order 10 build effective partnerships to manage complex issues, occupational therapists working with elderly persons must develop effective strategies for involving family members in the therapeutic process. This article describes a pilot study that examined how occupational therapists engage family caregivers of elderly persons receiving home care services. A qualitative descriptive approach was used to explore the behaviors demonstrated by two occupational therapists when working with family caregivers. The findings point to four primary types occupational therapist–caregiver interaction, categorized as: caring, partnering, informing, and directing. These interaction styles were compared with current literature describing state-of-the-art occupational therapy practices with older adults and family caregivers. An emphasis was placed on examining how therapeutic interactions can evoke different caregiver responses and influence the development and maintenance of collaborative therapeutic relationships. The results of this pilot study can sever as a framework for further exploration of interactive strategies that promote caregiver empowerment and ultimately influence the ability of families to assume responsibility for the long-term care required by many chronically disabled older adults.
Interactive Journals: An Educational Strategy to Promote Reflection
Authors: Tryssenaar Joyce 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
Reflection is an essential component of clinical reasoning in occupational therapy practice. The specialty area of mental health practice can elicit awareness and introspection for occupational therapy students at personal and professional levels. This article, a qualitative case study, describes the use of interactive journals in the mental health component of an undergraduate occupational therapy curriculum to foster and develop reflective skills. Students kept journals and submitted them biweekly; faculty members responded to the journals in writing within 24 hr. The journals were analyzed for common themes over the length of the course as well as at each biweekly period. Frequent themes were students’ increased awareness and openness to the specialty area and positive changes in attitude associated with new knowledge and experiences. The results indicate that interactive journals in academic courses have the potential to be an effective strategy to promote reflection.
Effects of Afternoon Rest on the Performance of Geriatric Patients in a Rehabilitation Hospital: A Pilot Study
Authors: Creighton Cynthia 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
Objective. When a person is hospitalized, he or she enters an environment in which time is structured very differently than it is in everyday life. Research with healthy young subjects in sleep laboratories has indicated that disruption in activity-rest cycles significantly affects mood, physical skills, and cognitive performance. Older persons whose daily routines are upset when they become patients in a hospital may be even more vulnerable to performance deficits. This pilot study was implemented in a regional rehabilitation center as an initial step in exploring the relationships between variations in schedule and geriatric patients’ functioning while hospitalized.
Method. Single-subject methodology was used to study six elderly fracture patients’ responses to the addition of an afternoon nap to their daily routine. Data were collected each morning and afternoon, during “nap” and “no nap” weeks, with simple measures of alertness, concentration, strength, coordination, and reaction time.
Results. Tendencies toward late afternoon drowsiness and, in some cases, improved cognitive performance, were observed when naps were provided.
Conclusion. Data about the ways in which hospital routine affects performance can guide occupational therapists in advocating for balanced programs of activity and rest for older rehabilitation patients.
The Touch Inventory for Elementary-School-Aged Children: Test–Retest Reliability and Mother–Child Correlations
Authors: Bennett Jennifer W. , Peterson Cindee Q. 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
Objective. The Touch Inventory for Elementary-School-Aged Children (TIE) is a self-report screening assessment for tactile defensiveness. The purpose of this study was to examine test–retest reliability of the TIE and to evaluate agreement between children’s TIE scores and scores that mothers gave their children on a modified version of the TIE.
Method. Twenty-nine children, 6 to 12 years of age, were available for the test–retest portion of the study and were assessed with the TIE with a 1-week interval between sessions. Their mothers completed a modified version of the TIE.
Results. Results indicated significant test–retest reliability ( r = .91, p &lt; .001), although a more conservative Kappa indicated only moderate agreement. The correlation between mothers’ ratings and children’s ratings was less significant ( r = .56, p = .001), and Kappas were slight or fair, indicating considerable disagreement between mothers and children.
Conclusion. These results suggest that using information from both mothers and children might provide a more complete picture of tactile defensiveness, but further research is needed before using a mother’s assessment when the TIE is implemented as a standard procedure.
Understanding the Family Perspective: An Ethnographic Framework for Providing Occupational Therapy in the Home
Authors: Gitlin Laura N. , Corcoran Mary , Leinmiller-Eckhardt Susan 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
This article presents a framework for providing occupational therapy services to family members caring for elderly persons in the home that is based on four key principles derived from ethnographic methodology: identification of an informant, use of an emic (insider) approach, engagement in self-reflection, and interpretation of information. The underlying strategy is to use these principles to derive an understanding of the personal meaning of caregiving, the way in which care is provided, and the specific aspects of caregiving that are problematic from the perspective of the family member. Services are then developed that reflect individual need as expressed by the caregiver and that fit the fundamental values and belief system of the family unit. A case example is presented to illustrate the framework in action in a home situation with family members caring for an elderly person with dementia.
Adaptation to Macular Scotomas in Persons With Low Vision
Authors: Schuchard Ronald A. 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
Persons with scotomas in their central 20° of vision often do not notice these blind spots within their visual field and have visual performance difficulties far exceeding what would be expected from standard vision tests. Before persons with macular scotomas can be assisted to optimally use their remaining vision for a better quality of life, more must be known about how the visual system adapts to a macular scotoma. Important issues include spatial and temporal characteristics of perceptual completion and metamorphopsia, development of preferred retinal loci for fixation and visual search, and dynamics of the preferred retinal locus development in terms of the changes in the eye movement system. With a full understanding of the visual system’s adaptation to macular scotomas, new low vision devices and training techniques can be proposed to promote independence in activities of daily living for the person with low vision.
Considerations in Evaluation and Treatment of the Child With Low Vision
Authors: Hyvärinen Lea 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
Habilitation of infants and children with visual impairments should be based on a thorough understanding of their visual capabilities and limitations. Comprehensive evaluation of visual function includes measurement of visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, visual field, color vision, adaptation, visual sphere, accommodation, and oculomotor functions. It is best completed through a team approach that uses therapists, special educators, and physicians. A complete evaluation also includes examination of the effect of other motor functions on the use of vision. Nearly all aspects of a child’s vision can be measured in play situations with tests that are easy to use. However, further education of nonphysician team members in refractive errors, optics, and function of optical devices may be necessary to ensure an accurate and thorough evaluation.
Understanding Cortical Visual Impairment in Children
Authors: Baker-Nobles Linda , Rutherford Ann 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
This article presents a review of the literature and a case study on a child with cortical visual impairment. The literature review covers the diagnosis, etiology, prevalence, prognosis, and a comparison of the differences between children with cortical visual impairment and those with ocular impairment. The case study presents occupational therapy intervention strategies specific to cortical visual impairment and results of treatment.
Effects of a Program on Symmetrical Posture in Patients With Hemiplegia: A Single-Subject Design
Authors: Wu Shin-Han , Huang Hwei-Tau , Lin Chi-Fang , Chen Mei-Hsiang 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
Objectives. Asymmetrical posture during static stance has been identified as a common problem in persons with hemiplegia. This study examined the effect of an activity-based therapy regimen on symmetric weight bearing and midline position of center of gravity (COG) in three adult subjects with hemiplegia.
Method. An ABAB single-subject design was used. The intervention program, including sanding in front of a standing table and play a bean bag game, was introduced for 30 min each day during each intervention phase. Quantitative measurements of the weight distribution and the midline position of COG were taken with the Balance Master System (version 2.20).
Results. Visual inspection and statistical analysis of the data revealed a significant improvement in symmetric weight distribution and midline position of COG. The study suggests that this program may be a promising alternative to a variety of postural rehabilitation programs for persons with hemiplegia.
Conclusion. Insecurity caused by poor stabilization and abnormal reactions to body weight bearing in an antigravity position might contribute to asymmetric postures. Results of this study suggest that an activity-oriented program can be effective in helping the persons with hemiplegia achieve symmetric stances.
The Meaning of Sea Kayaking for Persons With Spinal Cord Injuries
Authors: Taylor Leah Peri Siegel , McGruder Juli Evans 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
Objectives. Research has described benefits of physical, athletic, and avocational activity on improving self-esteem, quality of life, and locus of control in persons with disabilities. The objective of this study was to identify meaningful components of the experience of sea kayaking as described by persons with spinal cord injury (SCI).
Method. Three subjects with SCI who had participated in recreational kayaking were interviewed. Qualitative research methods included strategies from Guba’s model for rigor in qualitative research, Spradley’s interviewing guidelines, and Good’s method of semantic network analysis. Three interviews of approximately 45 min in length were conducted with each subject. Initial interviews began with a single question: “Tell me about sea kayaking.” Subsequent questions contained only concepts and terms used in the subjects’ responses.
Results. The subjects valued the novelty, challenge, safety, sociability, and natural environment aspects of sea kayaking. Perceptions of the self as able in the eyes of others and the need for support in pursuit of outdoor leisure activities were themes that figured prominently in the subjects’ discourse.
Conclusion. Subjects’ comments indicate that meaningful time use and the construction of an identity after injury are linked. This link has also been suggested in the rehabilitation literature. This information suggests the use of therapeutic intervention that supports a person’s adjustment to an irreversible SCI.
The Effect of an Inhibitive Weight-Bearing Splint on Tone and Function: A Single-Case Study
Authors: Kinghorn Judith , Roberts Gwen 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
Objective. This single-case study was designed to duplicate Smelt’s (1989) study of the effects of the application of an inhibitive weight-bearing splint on upper-extremity muscle tone and function in a child with cerebral palsy.
Method. Data on tone were collected by tracing the hand when weight bearing in the extended arm posture. Data on function were collected by observing block play for active grasp and voluntary release and ball play.
Results. Results indicate that after the application of an inhibitive weight-bearing splint, tone changed minimally, fine motor functional task changes were variable, and arm–hand position improved. Subjective reports by family and other caregivers, however, suggest that tone decreased and function increased.
Conclusion. The results of this study suggest the need to find more accurate means of measuring changes of tone and function in children with cerebral palsy. Selection criteria for suitable candidates for the weight-bearing splint are presented.
A Therapist’s Guide to Children’s Self-Esteem
Authors: Willoughby Colleen , King Gillian , Polatajko Helene 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
The term self-esteem is frequently used by occupational therapists and other health care professionals who work with children. There are differing interpretations as to what this term actually means. In this article, we use Susan Harter’s model of self-esteem to define the nature of self-esteem and apply it to clinical practice. We outline the developmental characteristics important to consider when addressing the self-esteem of young children, such as the findings that young children’s self-esteem is often more related to their perceptions of parental acceptance than perceptions of competence and that children are generally unable to accurately verbalize their level of self-esteem until 8 years of age. Specific implications for occupational therapy evaluation include whether the use of self-report or observer-report measures is preferable and whether self-esteem or self-concept should be measured. We discuss when to address self-esteem and which dimensions of self-esteem should be treated. The dimensions of self-esteem that are identified as low during the evaluation and that the child perceives to be important are addressed. The reevaluation issue of what specifically should be measured after intervention is also discussed. For example, it is recommended that the reevaluation instrument be sensitive to the domains of self-concept targeted for intervention.