Somewhat relating to this thread.
Have been to DFW many times and it is common practise for the AA MD-80's to back out from the gate using reverse thurst. They all do it on a regular basis.
MD-80's have the bucket type reversers, so they may be more effective than the side door variant on the 737.
Also, given the wear on the engine, one would assume its cheaper for AA to do this than employ someone to push back in the more normal manner.
Pratt engines used to be more hard wearing (robust!) than RR or GE (but less responsive) so maybe the additional wear is not that bad ??
You should try the Concorde reversers, not only do they make an incredible noise, they seem hugely more effective than any other type.