Introduction: Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is thought to have an analgesic effect as well as a biomodulatory effect on microcirculation. This study was designed to examine the pain-relieving effect of LLLT and possible microcirculatory changes measured by thermography in patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Materials and Methods: Patients with mild or moderate KOA were randomized to receive either LLLT or placebo LLLT. Treatments were delivered twice a week over a period of 4 wk with a diode laser (wavelength 830 nm, continuous wave, power 50 mW) in skin contact at a dose of 6 J=point. The placebo control group was treated with an ineffective probe (power 0.5 mW) of the same appearance. Before examinations and immediately, 2 wk, and 2 mo after completing the therapy, thermography was performed (bilateral comparative thermograph by AGA infrared camera); joint flexion, circumference, and pressure sensitivity were measured; and the visual analogue scale was recorded. Results: In the group treated with active LLLT, a significant improvement was found in pain (before treatment [BT]: 5.75; 2 mo after treatment : 1.18); circumference (BT: 40.45; AT: 39.86); pressure sensitivity (BT: 2.33; AT: 0.77); and flexion (BT: 105.83; AT: 122.94). In the placebo group, changes in joint flexion and pain were not significant. Thermographic measurements showed at least a 0.58C increase in temperature-and thus an improvement in circulation compared to the initial values. In the placebo group, these changes did not occur. Conclusion: Our results show that LLLT reduces pain in KOA and improves microcirculation in the irradiated area.

No abstract

Based on least-squares considerations, Schultze and Steinebach proposed three new estimators for the tail index of a regularly varying distribution function and proved their consistency. We show that, unlike the Hill estimator, all three least-squares estimators can be centred to have normal asymptotic distributions universally over the whole model, and for two of these estimators this in fact happens at the desirable order of the norming sequence. We analyse the conditions under which asymptotic con®dence intervals become possible. In a submodel, we compare the asymptotic mean square errors of optimal versions of these and earlier estimators. The choice of the number of extreme order statistics to be used is also discussed through the investigation of the asymptotic mean square error for a comprehensive set of examples of a general kind.

This new computerised objective method of assessing the degree of facial palsy shows promise as a standardised objective method of assessing the degree of facial palsy.

No abstract