bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In vitro characterisation of the fermentation profile and prebiotic capacity of gold-fleshed kiwifruit
Authors: Blatchford P. , Bentley-Hewitt K.L. , Stoklosinski H. , McGhie T. , Gearry R. , Gibson G. , Ansell J.
Published: June 2015

A new Actinidia chinensis gold-fleshed kiwifruit cultivar ‘Zesy002’ was tested to investigate whether it could positively modulate the composition of the human colonic microbiota. Digested Zesy002 kiwifruit was added to in vitro pH-controlled anaerobic batch fermenters that were inoculated with representative human faecal microbiota. Alterations to the gut microbial ecology were determined by 16S rRNA gene sequencing and metabolic end products were measured using gas chromatography and liquid chromatography – mass spectrometry. Results indicated a substantial shift in the composition of bacteria within the gut models caused by kiwifruit supplementation. Zesy002 supplemented microbiota had a significantly higher abundance of Bacteroides spp., Parabacteroides spp. and Bifidobacterium spp. after 48 h of fermentation compared with the start of the fermentation. Organic acids from kiwifruit were able to endure simulated gastrointestinal digestion and were detectable in the first 10 h of fermentation. The fermentable carbohydrates were converted to beneficial organic acids with a particular predilection for propionate production, corresponding with the rise in Bacteroides spp. and Parabacteroides spp. These results support the claim that Zesy002 kiwifruit non-digestible fractions can effect favourable changes to the human colonic microbial community and primary metabolites, and demonstrate a hitherto unknown effect of Zesy002 on colonic microbiota under in vitro conditions.
Floricultural supply chain network design and control: industry needs and modelling challenges
Authors: de Keizer M. , van der Vorst J.G.A.J. , Bloemhof J.M. , Haijema R.
Published: June 2015

The floricultural sector is facing market developments that have forced a redesign of the European logistics network. Via workshops and interviews with key stakeholders the main developments and industry needs are identified. These are then summarised in three central themes that require further investigation, i.e. decision problems (e.g. network design and control), context factors (e.g. demand uncertainty and product perishability), and objectives (e.g. efficiency and product quality). Thereafter, 17 articles that review Supply Chain Management (SCM) research are analysed to obtain more insight into the state-of-the-art on these themes and to identify the main issues within the themes and their interrelationships. This resulted in a conceptual research framework in which particular attention is given to how decision problems could be modelled and solved in order to get quantitative insights into the impact of logistics network redesign. Successively, 71 SCM articles were analysed in depth to classify current SCM research and to determine research gaps and challenges. Results show that Floricultural SCM research challenges can be found in integrated, quality-driven and responsive network design and control using hybrid optimisation and simulation.
The recentFusarium mycotoxin situation in grain and feed in China
Authors: Zhang W.W. , Deng X.D. , Yu X.P. , Pei X.F. , Fu G.M. , Wang X.L. , Li B.B. , Wang L.Y.
Published: June 2015

Fusariummycotoxins, such as trichothecenes, zearalenone (ZEA) and fumonisins, are widely distributed in grain and animal feed and cause hazards to human and animal health. China, one of the largest producers of agricultural products and animal feed, constantly faces challenges in preventing and controllingFusariummycotoxins. The recent status ofFusariummycotoxins in grain and feed is of interest to many stakeholders; however, no comprehensive review of this has been published to date. The objective of this article is to review the recent situation in China, including the contamination situation, its (probable) main causes and the updated regulations. Every district of China has been affected byFusariummycotoxin contamination to varying degrees, with the most seriously affected districts being East China, Central China and North China. The incidence rates of deoxynivalenol and ZEA were higher than those of otherFusariummycotoxins in both grain and feed samples. It has been suggested that deoxynivalenol-3-glucoside should undergo the risk assessment and the development of a related legal limit in China. Among the multiple causes ofFusariummycotoxin occurrence in China, geography and climate and the variable characteristics of plants are probably the two important causes. The latest legal limits forFusariummycotoxins in food were promulgated in 2011, and the legal limits in feed are in the process of being revised. This article aims to provide information for promoting an understanding of the recent situation and the challenges for combatingFusariummycotoxin contamination of grain and feed in China.
The role of cluster initiatives in strategic alliances: a view from the Basque Country region
Authors: Freije Obregón Inmaculada
Published: June 2015

Clusters initiatives are appropriate environments for their members to gain in competitiveness through collaboration. The entrepreneurial process of discovery, one of the main principals in the new concept of smart specialization can be embodied in clusters initiatives. When addressing new business opportunities through collaboration within a cluster, companies usually form strategic alliances. Business strategy is clearly related to regional strategy. In most cases, successful regional strategies depend on successful business strategies. This paper considers the relationship between the two types of strategies, focussing on strategic alliances and the role of cluster initiatives in their development in the context of the Basque Country region. To provide insight about the perceived role of cluster initiatives in both fostering strategic alliances and in defining and developing regional smart specialization strategies in mature cluster initiatives, primary data was gathered in the Basque Country from Cluster Managers and Business Members of various clusters.
Tackling Communication Barriers Between Long-Term Care Facility and Emergency Department Transfers to Improve Medication Safety in Older Adults
Authors: Callinan Stephanie M. , Brandt Nicole J.
Published: June 2015

In 2013, the American College of Emergency Physicians, American Geriatrics Society, Emergency Nurses Association, and Society for Academic Emergency Medicine created geriatric emergency department guidelines, making recommendations for staffing/administration, follow up and transitions of care, education, quality improvement, equipment/supplies, and other policies, procedures, and protocols to be implemented. Awareness of these guidelines, as well as communication barriers, can help improve the delivery of care for older adults during transitions in care, particularly regarding medication safety. [
Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 41
(7), 8–13.]
Influence of solid loading on D-xylose production through dilute sulphuric acid hydrolysis of olive stones
Authors: Cuevas M. , Saleh M. , García-Martín J. F. , Sánchez S.
Published: June 2015

The selective hydrolysis of hemicellulose from olive stones was attempted in order to achieve a maximum D-xylose yield. For this aim, batch hydrolysis was conducted under different operating conditions of temperature, acid concentration and solid loading. Firstly, distilled water, sulphuric acid and nitric acid were assessed as hydrolytic agents at different temperatures (200, 205, 210 and 220 °C) and at a fixed acid concentration (0.025 M). Sulphuric acid and 200 °C were selected for the subsequent dilute acid hydrolysis optimization based on the obtained D-xylose yields. The combined influence of solid loading (from 29.3 to 170.7 g olive stones into 300 mL acid solution) and sulphuric acid concentration (0.006–0.034 M) on the release of D-xylose was then estimated by response surface methodology. According to a statistical analysis, both parameters had significant interaction effects on D-xylose production. The results illustrated that the higher the solid loading, the higher the required acid concentration. The decrease in the solid/liquid ratio in the reactor had a positive effect on D-xylose extraction and on the amount of acid used. The optimum solid loading and sulphuric acid concentration were determined to be 50 g (solid/liquid ratio 1/6) and 0.016 M, respectively. Under these conditions, the predicted D-xylose yield (expressed as g of sugar per 100 g of dry matter fed) was 20.4 (87.2% of maximum attainable).
Characterization of high-oleic peanut natural mutants derived from an intersectional cross
Authors: Wang X. Z. , Tang Y. Y. , Wu Q. , Sun Q. X. , Wang Y. Y. , Hu D. Q. , Wang C. T.
Published: June 2015

As compared with its normal oleate counterpart, high oleate peanuts have better storage quality and several health benefits, and are therefore preferred by peanut shellers and consumers. High oleate has now become one of the main breeding objectives of peanuts. Thus far, over 50 high oleate peanut cultivars have been registered. Yet high oleate peanut breeding relies heavily on a limited number of high oleate genotypes. In this paper, we reported, for the first time, high peanut oleate natural mutants with large seeds derived from an intersectional cross, which were identified with near infra-red spectroscopy and confirmed by gas chromatography. Sequencing of FAD2 from the high-oleic hybrids along with their normal oleate parents indicated that a 448G >A mutation in FAD2A coupled with a 441_442ins A or G in FAD2B together caused high oleate phenotypes in these peanut hybrids.
Using mariculture as a breeding site: reproduction of Hypleurochilus fissicornis (Actinopterygii: Blenniidae)
Authors: Possamai Bianca , Fávaro Luís Fernando
Published: June 2015

Mariculture in estuaries provides substrate for colonization by fouling organisms, thus attracting small cryptic fish species hitherto unknown in this environment. The blenny Hypleurochilus fissicornis is one of the species that is associated with this new system and is found in high abundance in bivalve farming. To understand the reproductive strategy that this species uses in this new environment, we collected specimens monthly in a mariculture on the southern coast of Paraná State (Brazil). After obtaining morphometric data, we removed gonads to determine sex and maturity stage. Gonads were weighed and analysed histologically. Oogenesis showed the same pattern as in other teleosts, but spermatogenesis showed a very complex dynamics. The spawning is multiple and synchronous between sexes, lasting eight months (May to December) and peaking in winter. Hypleurochilus fissicornis was reproductively successful using the mariculture as a breeding site. The species has a variety of tactics to protect its offspring (e.g. batch spawning, long reproductive period, reduced L50, parental care and a reproductive peak in winter).
Chinese Open Universities
Authors: Li Xiaobin
Published: June 2015

Chinese education has a long history, and the Chinese higher education system is the largest in the world, but open universities in China are not at the same level as they are in developed countries. This article provides an overview of the recent development in the open universities system in China. Specifically, the article discusses the positive impact open universities have and the difficulties they need to deal with. The potential for further developing Chinese open universities is considered. In addition, challenges are discussed, and recommendations are made for improving these open universities.
Review of ICT Adoption Research in Arabic Countries
Authors: Halaweh Mohanad
Published: June 2015

Information systems (IS) researchers have intensively investigated information and communication technology (ICT) adoption. However, very little research has analyzed ICT adoption in the Arab region. This paper aims to review research related to ICT adoption in the Arab world to identify the current state of this research area and provide direction for future research. Fifty articles that addressed ICT adoption in three Arabic countries, namely United Arab Emirates (UAE), Jordan, and Egypt, were found and selected for review. These articles were analyzed based on a research framework that included eight elements: the selected Arabic countries, applied theoretical models, adoption factors, type of adopted ICT, applied research methods, level of adoption, publication year, and quality of publications (i.e. journals ranking). This paper discusses the current trends of ICT adoption research in the Arab region based on the findings of this analysis and provides two main directions for future research: conceptual and theoretical research development and methodological research.
Identifying gaps for future development: usage patterns of the Medical Library, University of Sri Jayawardanapura
Authors: Dharmaratne Shirani
Published: June 2015

A user survey was carried out in the Medical Library, University of Sri Jayewardenepura to assess the services offered at present, to find out the usage patterns of the existing resources and services in order to identify the gaps in present services. Survey method was used. Questionnaires and library statistics were used as data collection instruments. Random sampling was applied to select the sample from three batches of undergraduate students. The survey asked students to state the purpose of library visit, usage of library resources and services, problems in using library resources and services and students‟ suggestions to improve the existing services and to initiate new services. Results indicated that there is a significant difference among the usage patterns of different year levels in terms of literature searching and ILL requests. Unawareness and inadequate computer facilities were the major reasons indicated for underutilization of CD-ROMs and Document Delivery services. It is hoped to consider these findings in future development plans.Key words: User surveys, Information seeking patterns, Academic Medical LibrariesJournal of the University Librarians Association of Sri Lanka, Vol.13 (Special Issue). 2009 53-67
Opposing Roles of Dectin-1 Expressed on Human Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells and Myeloid Dendritic Cells in Th2 Polarization
Authors: Joo HyeMee , Upchurch Katherine , Zhang Wei , Ni Ling , Li Dapeng , Xue Yaming , Li Xiao-Hua , Hori Toshiyuki , Zurawski Sandra , Liu Yong-Jun , Zurawski Gerard , Oh SangKon
Published: June 2015

Dendritic cells (DCs) can induce and control host immune responses. DC subset-dependent functional specialties and their ability to display functional plasticity, which is mainly driven by signals via pattern recognition receptors, identify DCs as immune orchestrators. A pattern recognition receptor, Dectin-1, is expressed on myeloid DCs and known to play important roles in Th17 induction and activation during fungal and certain bacterial infections. In this study, we first demonstrate that human plasmacytoid DCs express Dectin-1 in both mRNA and protein levels. More interestingly, Dectin-1–activated plasmacytoid DCs promote Th2-type T cell responses, whereas Dectin-1–activated myeloid DCs decrease Th2-type T cell responses. Such contrasting outcomes of Th2-type T cell responses by the two DC subsets are mainly due to their distinct abilities to control surface OX40L expression in response to β-glucan. This study provides new insights for the regulation of host immune responses by Dectin-1 expressed on DCs.
First PCR isolation of Crithidia mellificae (Euglenozoa: Trypanosomatidae) in Apis mellifera (Hymenoptera: Apidae) in Italy
Authors: Cersini Antonella , Antognetti Valeria , Conti Raffaella , Velletrani Fabiana , Formato Giovanni
Published: June 2015

Crithidia mellificae (Langridge & McGhee, 1967) is a trypanosomatid described in Apis mellifera (Linnaeus, 1758). The pathological effects of this parasite on the host are not well known. In this short communication, we report the first isolation of this pathogen in Italy, as realized in December 2013. The detection of Crithidia spp. was obtained by applying two PCR protocols that target the sequence of the mitochondrial cytochrome b (Cytb) and the sequence of small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSUrRNA), respectively. The PCR products were subjected to sequencing, which confirmed that the strain belonged to Crithidia mellificae.
A software package for predicting design-flood hydrographs in small and ungauged basins
Authors: Piscopia Rodolfo , Petroselli Andrea , Grimaldi Salvatore
Published: June 2015

In this study, software for estimating design hydrographs in small and ungauged basins is presented. The main aim is to propose a fast and user-friendly empirical tool that the practitioner can apply for hydrological studies characterised by a lack of observed data. The software implements a homonymous framework called event-based approach for small and ungauged basins (EBA4SUB) that was recently developed and tested by the authors to estimate the design peak discharge using the same input information necessary to apply the rational formula. EBA4SUB is a classical hydrological event-based model in which each step (design hyetograph, net rainfall estimation, and rainfall-runoff transformation) is appropriately adapted for empirical applications without calibration. As a case study, the software is applied in a small watershed while varying the hyetograph shape, rainfall peak position, and return time. The results provide an overview of the software and confirm the secondary role of the design rainfall peak position.
Additions to the vascular flora of the Umbria region (central Italy).
Authors: Falcinelli Francesco , Conti Fabio , Donnini Domizia
Published: June 2015

In this work 21 new floristic records for Umbria region (central Italy) are reported. Particularly 19 are new and 2 are confirmed for the Umbria region. The survey was carried out from 2010 to 2014 some species are of particular interest from a phytogeographical or conservational point of view, as they are very rare in central Italy.

In questo contributo vengono riportate note floristiche per 21 entità rilevate in Umbria (Italia Centrale). In particolare, 19 sono risultate essere nuove e 2 sono confermate per l’Umbria. La ricerca, condotta mediante erborizzazioni effettuate nel periodo 2010-2014, ha consentito il ritrovamento di alcune specie di particolare interesse fitogeografico o rare nell’Italia centrale.
The Stoppani Collection of Large Bivalves (Bivalvia, Megalodontida) from the Upper Triassic of Lombardy, Italy
Authors: Teruzzi Giorgio
Published: June 2015

During a reorganisation of the MSNM’s palaeontological collections, we uncovered specimens from the original collection of Antonio Stoppani. These included around one hundred original fragments of megalodontid bivalves (mostly internal moulds) from the Upper Triassic of Lombardy, and 14 plaster casts of original fossils, and hypothetical internal mould and valve reconstructions. Among this materials an original fragment and 8 moulds were illustrated in Stoppani, 1860-65 in his appendix on large bivalves from the Upper Triassic of Lombardy. One of the moulds is of the holotype of Conchodon infraliasicus Stoppani, 1860-65.
Self-Perceived Educational Preparedness of Entry-Level Athletic Trainers Regarding Preventing Sudden Death in Sport
Authors: Pagnotta Kelly D. , Mazerolle Stephanie M. , Yabor Thomas M. , Salvatore Anthony C. , Casa Douglas J.
Published: June 2015

Context

As the first medical professionals on scene when emergency situations arise in sport, athletic trainers (ATs) need to be proficient in recognizing and managing these conditions. Recent evidence regarding exertional heatstroke indicates a lack of educational training as a factor preventing implementation of best practices, yet other causes of sudden death exist, and little is known about the educational training provided to the AT.

Objective

To gain insight into the entry-level AT and athletic training students' (ATSs') perceptions of education received in the area of emergency care techniques.

Design

Mixed methods study.

Setting

Athletic training programs (ATPs) and practice settings.

Patients or Other Participants

Thirteen first-year ATs (n = 7) or recent ATS graduates before employment (n = 6).

Data Collection and Analysis

One-on-one phone interviews were conducted and transcribed verbatim. Data were analyzed inductively using a grounded theory approach and open coding. Close-ended questions were analyzed by calculating frequencies, means, and standard deviations. Multiple analyst triangulation and peer review were used to establish data credibility.

Results

One main theme emerged: participants revealed they perceived their education to be compartmentalized. Compartmentalization comprised 3 subthemes: cognitive knowledge, skill implementation, and clinical integration. Participants received the cognitive knowledge through traditional teaching methods but had minimal hands-on laboratory practice in the area of basic emergent and immediate care skills. Instructors placed greater focus on situations or cases that educators had encountered versus on the broader scope of conditions. Contrived, discussion-based instructional methods rather than real-life integration were used to evaluate the ATSs' ability to apply the knowledge and skills.

Conclusions

Beyond providing ATSs with the necessary didactic knowledge and hands-on practice through structured laboratory sessions, educators must also provide the opportunity for clinical application of knowledge and skills. Athletic training students must be provided opportunities to apply emergent care skills in order to demonstrate competency and critical thinking.
Perceived Cultural Competence Levels in Undergraduate Athletic Training Students
Authors: Volberding Jennifer L.
Published: June 2015

Context

As the patient population continues to diversify, it is essential that athletic training students (ATSs) are educated to provide culturally competent care. This high-quality health care within the context of a patient's race, ethnicity, language, religious beliefs, or behaviors is a foundation of professional practice.

Objective

Determine undergraduate ATSs' levels of cultural competence and their variability by gender, race, and year in school.

Design

Cross-sectional design.

Setting

Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education–accredited undergraduate athletic training programs.

Patients or Other Participants

ATSs enrolled in their programs' professional-education phase (N = 421), of which 366 were Caucasian and 55 were students of color.

Intervention

Students completed a 20-question online Likert survey using Qualtrics. Items were based on prior research and a nursing measurement tool, rated on a 1 to 4 scale (from strongly disagree to strongly agree, respectively; maximum score of 80), and found to be reliable (Cronbach α = 0.721).

Main Outcome Measurements

Overall cultural competence score, means, and standard deviations were calculated for all students by gender, race/ethnicity, and year. One-way analyses of variance also compared each category.

Results

Higher scores on the research tool demonstrate higher levels of cultural competence. There were no significant differences found between gender and year in school. Students of color showed higher overall cultural competence scores than Caucasians (F1,420 = 29.509, P < .01). The mean overall cultural competence score was 58.36 ± 5.26.

Conclusions

Students of color demonstrated higher levels of cultural competence, which is possibly because of their personal history and experiences. The current study demonstrates that athletic training programs must seek to better educate students on providing culturally competent care.
Application of “Earl's Assessment as, Assessment for, and Assessment of Learning Model” with Orthopaedic Assessment Clinical Competence
Authors: Lafave Mark R. , Katz Larry , Vaughn Norman
Published: June 2015

Context

In order to study the efficacy of assessment methods, a theoretical framework of Earl's model of assessment was introduced.

Objective

(1) Introduce the predictive learning assessment model (PLAM) as an application of Earl's model of learning; (2) test Earl's model of learning through the use of the Standardized Orthopedic Assessment Tool (SOAT); and (3) establish construct validity of the SOAT.

Design

Quasi-experimental.

Setting

Three Canadian universities

Patients or Other Participants

A convenience sample of 57 third-year undergraduate athletic therapy students from three universities were randomly assigned into three experimental groups.

Intervention(s)

Treatment group 1 gave the instructor access to the SOAT, but the instructor could not explicitly share it. Treatment group 2 gave both the instructor and students access to the SOAT throughout the semester to use formatively. Group three was the comparison.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

All students were tested using the SOAT at the end of the semester using expert raters. An analysis of variance (ANOVA) (P < .05) was used to determine whether there was a difference between groups in their final examination grades.

Results

The ANOVA demonstrated a significant difference between groups (F2,56 = 28.6, P < .01). The effect size, calculated using η2, was 0.51. Post hoc analysis revealed a significant difference between treatment group 2 and the other treatment group and comparison group.

Conclusions

Small sample size and the quasi-experimental design prevent definitive conclusions, but the SOAT was able to discriminate between various groups, supporting our construct validity objective. The SOAT was introduced as a predictive tool that may assist orthopaedic assessment skill development. The treatment group exposed to the SOAT demonstrated that formative assessment of students using the SOAT was an effective means of teaching relative to no exposure or where only the instructor was exposed to the SOAT.
Improving Preceptor Behavior Through Formative Feedback in Preceptor Training
Authors: Groh Nancy , Gill Diane , Henning Jolene , Stevens Susan W. , Dondanville Abbey
Published: June 2015

Context

Clinical instructor educators (CIEs) prepare athletic trainers (ATs) to serve as preceptors. Structured performance observation and supervisory conferencing is a well-established method to improve teaching practice that may prove effective for training preceptors.

Objective

To explore the impact of a systematic preceptor training program on preceptor behaviors.

Design

Mixed-methods, quasi-experimental, pre-post design using a systematic observational tool for measuring preceptor behaviors, postintervention survey, and focus group interview.

Setting

Two collegiate athletic training facilities.

Patients or Other Participants

Three ATs serving as preceptors (2 men, 1 woman) with 5.7 ± 5.5 years supervising students.

Intervention(s)

Preceptor training including a CIE-preceptor planning conference, video-recorded observation session that was coded using an Observational Record of Clinical Educator Behavior (ORCEB) coding form, and CIE-preceptor feedback conference conducted over a 4-week period.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

We used the ORCEB to count the frequency of 4 categories of preceptor behaviors demonstrated every 5 seconds during a 30-minute clinical education session. Frequency counts for each category of behavior and percentage of change preintervention to postintervention were calculated. A postintervention survey and focus group interview evaluated perceptions of intervention effectiveness.

Results

Aggregate mean frequency counts for the giving information category increased by 272.8% preintervention (41.7 ± 27.5) to postintervention (155.3 ± 62), evaluating students increased 185.7% preintervention (4.7 ± 8.1) to postintervention (13.3 ± 11.1), and behaviors that promote problem solving increased 257.9% preintervention (6.3 ± 2.3) to postintervention (22.7 ± 13.4). Behaviors that do not promote student engagement decreased 45.1% preintervention (307.3 ± 33.3) to postintervention (168.7 ± 55.8). The survey (4.0–4.7 ± 0.0–0.6) and focus group results support a positive perception on impact of the intervention on the role as preceptor.

Conclusions

Our study supports a systematic training program as a favorable method for increasing effective preceptor behaviors. Limitations of our study include a small sample size and inclusion of only 1 athletic training education program.
Athletic Training Student Socialization Part II: Socializing the Professional Master's Athletic Training Student
Authors: Mazerolle Stephanie M. , Bowman Thomas G. , Dodge Thomas M.
Published: June 2015

Context

Professional socialization is a key process in the professional development of athletic training students. Literature has focused on many perspectives regarding socialization and has primarily focused on the undergraduate level.

Objective

Gain insights from the program director at professional master's (PM) athletic training programs on methods used to socialize students into programs and the profession.

Design

Qualitative study.

Setting

One-on-one telephone interviews.

Patients or Other Participants

A total of 8 PM program directors volunteered for our study. The Table provides information on the institutions represented by these participants. Our program directors had 8 ± 6 years of experience in their current roles and were 41± 4 years old.

Data Collection and Analysis

We conducted 1-on-1 phone interviews and transcribed the interviews verbatim. We performed a general inductive analysis of the data. We also completed member checks, multiple analyst triangulation, and peer reviews to establish data and methodological credibility.

Results

Our findings indicated that PM programs utilize a combination of formal and informal processes to orient the student, which is comparable to those processes used by undergraduate programs to socialize their students. The formal processes included orientation sessions and introductory courses. Social gatherings and program outings along with peer mentoring were also methods employed by PM programs to assist in socializing the student, but these methods were informal in nature.

Conclusions

Program autonomy allows for athletic training programs to personalize their tactics to socialize the student, but it does appear that the use of orientation sessions and introduction courses allows PM programs to formally introduce the profession and program. Less structured socialization strategies include peer-driven mentoring and social engagements that promote interaction and stress-relief. Programs are encouraged to evaluate their current socialization tactics and take advantage of the benefits of peer support and times to directly communicate with their students.
Using Performance Assessments to Determine Competence in Clinical Athletic Training Education: How Valid Are Our Assessments?
Authors: Thompson Gayle A. , Moss Robert , Applegate Brooks
Published: June 2015

Context

Validity arguments can be used to provide evidence that instructors are drawing accurate conclusions from the results of students' clinical performance assessments (PAs). Little research has been conducted in athletic training education to determine if the evidence supports the use of current PAs. Measurement theories designed to provide this evidence can be confusing and unfamiliar to athletic training educators.

Objective

The purpose of this article is to present contemporary concepts of validity and suggest approaches athletic training educators can use to offer evidence to support the best assessment methods.

Background

Educators often use PAs to determine a student's competence for professional practice. Competence is a complex concept that is difficult to define clearly, thus making assessments of competent performance difficult as well. Most methods of PA used in athletic training education can be classified into 2 general approaches: behavioral and holistic. Athletic training educators, in an attempt to develop effective, appropriate, and user-friendly PAs to evaluate students, may be measuring skill but not truly measuring competence.

Description

Modern validity concepts focus on the interpretations and meanings of assessment scores, not just on the characteristics of the test itself. Using an updated concept of validity can guide the development of competence PAs to determine if educational outcomes are being met. A framework for developing a validity argument is presented.

Conclusions

Validity can be used to provide a simple, but rational, defense of what clinical educators do. Knowing the process of establishing validity evidence will help educators revise PAs and educational standards to further promote the profession.
The Impact of Clinical Experiences from Athletic Training Student and Preceptor Perspectives
Authors: Benes Sarah S. , Mazerolle Stephanie M. , Bowman Thomas G.
Published: June 2015

Context

Clinical education is an integral part of athletic training programs. This is where students should develop their professional identities and become socialized into the profession. Understanding the student and preceptor perspectives of the impact that clinical experiences have on students can provide valuable insight into this aspect of athletic training education.

Objective

To evaluate the impact of clinical education on the professional development of athletic training students from the student and preceptor perspective.

Design

Qualitative study.

Setting

Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education–accredited undergraduate programs.

Patients or Other Participants

A total of 15 participants (7 athletic training students and 8 preceptors) from four schools enrolled in our study.

Data Collection and Analysis

One researcher conducted semistructured interviews over the phone or in person. Data analysis used a general inductive approach to reveal the dominant themes that related to our purpose. We achieved data credibility through multiple analyst triangulation, peer review, and member checks.

Results

Athletic training students and preceptors agree that clinical education is integral to the professional development process. Realistic and positive experiences and diversity in experiences were identified as factors affecting professional growth during clinical education experiences.

Conclusions

Athletic training students and preceptors have similar views on the importance of clinical placements on professional development. Clinical experiences provide students with the opportunity to learn more about the profession, affirm their career choice, practice knowledge and skills, and learn about themselves personally and professionally. The student and the fit/match of the placement directly impact the students' clinical experiences.
Effectiveness of Plastinated Anatomical Specimens Depicting Common Sports Injuries to Enhance Musculoskeletal Injury Evaluation Education
Authors: Tamura Kaori , Stickley Christopher D. , Labrash Steven J. , Lozanoff Scott
Published: June 2015

Context

Plastination techniques have emerged as effective methods for preserving human tissue and enabling human specimens to be utilized in a fashion similar to anatomical models with much greater accuracy. Opportunities to observe and experience human specimens in classroom settings should be beneficial to undergraduate and graduate students in health professions such as athletic training since understanding the spatial orientation of anatomical structures is critical for learning palpation skills and diagnostic tests.

Objective

To assess the perceived value of a unique series of plastinated specimens depicting common sport injuries in enhancing musculoskeletal injury evaluation education.

Design

Survey study.

Setting

We collected data via a questionnaire in the classroom setting.

Patients or Other Participants

Undergraduate students, graduate students, and certified athletic trainers.

Intervention(s)

Dissected specimens were plastinated following standard room temperature plastination methods. We used a Likert scale questionnaire to evaluate the usefulness of the plastinated specimens for conveying associated learning issues. Participants completed the questionnaire following a didactic presentation of injury mechanism, symptoms, and diagnostic clinical testing while utilizing the plastinated specimens.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Perceived usability and the need for plastinated injury model use by students and certified athletic trainers.

Results

We found that plastinated injury models were perceived by a majority of the participants as being useful and needed for learning anatomy 3-dimensionally (98.6%), developing palpation skills (94.6%), and enhancing the concept of diagnostic testing used in injury assessment (95.9%).

Conclusions

Plastination of human specimens is a unique and effective approach that provides students with a learning experience not available through other instructional delivery systems. The ability to practice injury evaluation techniques, especially palpation skills, while using actual anatomical structures provides students with superior learning experiences and should be made more widely available in classroom settings.
Defining the Engaging Learning Experience from the Athletic Training Student Perspective
Authors: Mazerolle Stephanie M. , Bowman Thomas G. , Benes Sarah S.
Published: June 2015

Context

Clinical experiences are an integral part of athletic training education and are where students gain the hands-on, practical knowledge and skills necessary to provide quality patient care in the field. However, some clinical education experiences may not allow athletic training students to become clinically integrated.

Objective

To explore athletic training students' perspectives on their clinical learning experiences, specifically as they relate to an engaging learning environment.

Design

Qualitative study.

Setting

Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education accredited undergraduate programs.

Patients or Other Participants

Twenty-one athletic training students (6 juniors; 15 seniors) with an average age of 22 years (20–23 years) from 4 National Athletic Trainers' Association districts volunteered to participate in our study.

Data Collection and Analysis

Participants responded to a series of open-ended questions by journaling their thoughts and opinions through the secure website QuestionPro. Data were analyzed using open coding that was guided by a general inductive procedure. Data credibility was established through peer review, interpretative member checks, and multiple analyst triangulation.

Results

Our cohort identified an engaging learning environment as one that allowed active learning and participation as an athletic trainer and included communication between the student and preceptor, patient interactions, and instructor feedback regarding development and application of skills and knowledge.

Conclusions

Athletic training students prefer a more active learning style and value observing their preceptor engage in patient care, but they also want the opportunity to practice their athletic training skills to gain competence and confidence.
Preceptors' Influence on Athletic Training Students' Development of Excitement and Commitment to the Field of Athletic Training
Authors: Dodge Thomas M. , Mazerolle Stephanie M.
Published: June 2015

Context

Athletic training students (ATS) who are excited about their chosen profession are likely to persist to graduation. Preceptors exert significant influence on ATS; however, little is known about the methods that preceptors use to help ATS develop their own professional commitments.

Objective

To investigate the methods used by preceptors to facilitate the development of excitement and professional commitment to athletic training among ATS.

Design

An exploratory qualitative study.

Setting

Athletic training education programs.

Patients or Other Participants

Seventeen preceptors (3 males, 14 females) volunteered for our study. The participants had an average of 6 ± 2 years of experience as a preceptor and were engaged in clinical education an average of 20 ± 3 hours each week.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

One-on-one interviews followed a semistructured format. Interviews were transcribed and shared with participants before analysis. Data were analyzed with a grounded theory approach consisting of open, axial, and selective coding. Multiple analyst triangulation and member checks were included as steps to establish data credibility.

Results

Mentoring, the central emerging theme, was characterized by modeling excitement for athletic training, accurate representation of professional practice, strong preceptor/ATS communication, and providing ATS with hands-on experience. Teaching and learning was identified as a positive attribute associated with being a preceptor. Preceptors indicated that their excitement for athletic training often stemmed from a desire to help others and the dynamic nature of the field.

Conclusions

Preceptors mentor ATS by displaying excitement for their profession and providing them with realistic learning experiences that are aimed at accurately representing the profession. The dynamic nature of athletic training appears to be an attractor to the profession, but it is a responsibility of the preceptor to help ATS develop an appreciation for that dynamic nature if they are to persist to graduation and eventual professional practice.
Description of Professional Master's Athletic Training Programs
Authors: Bowman Thomas G. , Pitney William A. , Mazerolle Stephanie M. , Dodge Thomas M.
Published: June 2015

Context

Professional master's (PM) athletic training programs (ATPs) are becoming more popular as the profession debates what the entry-level degree should be for athletic training. More information is needed related to the potential benefits of PM ATPs.

Objective

Describe the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) accredited PM ATPs including athletic training student retention rates and career placement rates as well as strengths and areas for improvement.

Design

Mixed-method study.

Setting

Professional master's ATPs.

Patients or Other Participants

We surveyed directors of all accredited PM ATPs and obtained responses from 15 out of the 25 directors (60.0%).

Main Outcome Measure(s)

We sent a link to an electronic survey to all directors. The survey asked background questions about the ATP, the institution, and the director. Using data saturation as a guide, we also performed follow-up telephone interviews with 8 directors to expand upon the data gathered in the survey, specifically related to aspects of their PM ATPs. We analyzed the data using grounded theory and maintained trustworthiness through multiple analyst triangulation, member checks, and a peer review.

Results

Our findings indicate an 88.7% retention rate and an 88.5% career placement rate for PM athletic training students. The directors responded very positively about their ATPs, particularly didactic education. The participants also felt they provide a positive environment which fosters student learning, excellent clinical education opportunities, and unique experiences beyond those typically offered at the undergraduate level. Many directors also noted they wanted to make personnel modifications to strengthen their ATPs.

Conclusions

We were able to provide descriptive information on PM ATPs. The participants described the didactic and clinical education experiences, social experiences, and overall ATP atmosphere as overwhelmingly positive. The small class sizes and involvement from faculty, staff, and preceptors helped create an environment, which fosters athletic training student learning.
Trends in Doctoral Education Among Healthcare Professions: An Integrative Research Review
Authors: Seegmiller Jeff G. , Nasypany Alan , Kahanov Leamor , Seegmiller Jennifer A. , Baker Russell
Published: June 2015

Context

Evidence suggests widespread adoption of the entry-level doctorate among health professions, although little is known about how these changes have impacted associated professions and influenced education, collaborative practice, professional advancement, or professional salaries.

Objective

Threefold: (1) What doctoral education models are currently utilized among health care professional education programs in the United States? (2) How do entry-level clinical doctorates in health care professions impact research training and productivity? (3) How do clinical doctorates among health professions influence practice opportunities and salary?

Design

Data were extracted from various sources including professional organizations, accrediting body Web sites, and the US Department of Labor database. Full-text articles published in English between the years 2001–2011 were extracted from a search of 38 databases in the University of Washington libraries. The remaining article abstracts were reviewed for compatibility with our research questions. Data were extracted using a standardized rubric and coded according to emergent themes.

Results

Two-thirds of 14 examined health professions (n = 10) followed the medical model of postbaccalaureate entry-to-practice professional doctoral education. Less than a third (n = 4) of surveyed professions reserved doctoral-level education for advanced practice, and 1 profession maintains both entry-level and advanced practice doctorates. Only 4 of the 14 clinical doctoral degrees required completion of an original research project. Entry-level clinical doctorates may provide insufficient specialty training, necessitating further training after graduation.

Conclusions

Most health care professions follow the medical model for professional preparation, though at reduced intensity with fewer clinical hours than physician training. Clinical doctorates are perceived to increase professional opportunities and are associated with higher salaries and doctoral education among health care professions has become the new educational standard, though research training, research productivity, diversity, and professional debt burden have been negatively impacted by this trend.
Program Directors' Perceptions of Reasons Professional Master's Athletic Training Students Persist and Depart
Authors: Bowman Thomas G. , Pitney William A. , Mazerolle Stephanie M. , Dodge Thomas M.
Published: June 2015

Context

Student retention is a key issue in higher education. With the increasing number of professional master's (PM) athletic training programs (ATPs), understanding student retention is necessary to maintain viable programs.

Objective

Explore program directors' perceptions of the reasons athletic training students persist and depart from PM ATPs.

Design

Qualitative study.

Setting

Professional master's athletic training programs.

Patients or Other Participants

We asked directors from all PM ATPs nationwide to complete an online survey. We obtained responses from 60.0% (15 out of 25) of the population. We also completed follow-up telephone interviews with directors from 8 PM ATPs.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Directors of PM ATPs completed an online survey asking for reasons for student persistence and departure. We also conducted follow-up telephone interviews with randomly selected participants. During the telephone interviews, we asked participants for additional detail regarding the enrollment decisions of students.

Results

PM ATP directors stated that students persist due to their commitment to the profession and the interpersonal relationships they build with the program stakeholders. Conversely, students depart PM ATPs due to the rigor associated with completion, a change in career aspirations, and financial concerns.

Conclusions

Athletic training educators should strive to keep commitment and motivation levels high while fostering positive interpersonal relationships by providing a welcoming atmosphere and engaging clinical education experiences. Finally, mentors should be available to assist students with program completion, and students should have options available for defraying the cost associated with completing the PM ATP.