bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tailoring the Static and Dynamic Mechanical Properties of Tri-Block Copolymers through Molecular Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Zheng Zijian , Liu Hongji , Shen Jianxiang , Liu Jun , Wu Youping , Zhang Liqun
Published: September 2016

Although the research of the self-assembly of tri-block copolymers has been carried out widely, little attention has been paid to study the mechanical properties and to establish its structure-property relation, which is of utmost significance for its practical applications. Here, we adopt molecular dynamics simulation to study the static and dynamic mechanical properties of the ABA tri-block copolymer, by systematically varying the morphology, the interaction strength between A-A blocks, the temperature, the dynamic shear amplitude and frequency. In our simulation, we set the self-assembled structure formed by A-blocks to be in the glassy state, with the B-blocks in the rubbery state. With the increase of the content of A-blocks, the spherical, cylindrical and lamellar domains are formed, respectively, exhibiting a gradual increase of the stress-strain behavior. During the self-assembly process, the stress-strain curve is as well enhanced. The increase of the interaction strength between A-A blocks improves the stress-strain behavior and reduces the dynamic hysteresis loss. Since the cylindrical domains are randomly dispersed, the stress-strain behavior exhibits the isotropic mechanical property; while for the lamellar domains, the mechanical property seems to be better along the direction perpendicular to than parallel to the lamellar direction. In addition, we observe that with the increase of the dynamic shear amplitude and frequency, the self-assembled domains become broken up, resulting in the decrease of the storage modulus and the increase of the hysteresis loss, which holds the same conclusion for the increase of the temperature. Our work provides some valuable guidance to tune the static and dynamic mechanical properties of ABA tri-block copolymer in the field of various applications.
A Simple Harmonic Model for FAPAR Temporal Dynamics in the Wetlands of the Volga-Akhtuba Floodplain
Authors: Kozlov Alexander , Kozlova Maria , Skorik Nikolai
Published: September 2016

The paper reports a technique used to construct a reference time series for the fraction of absorbed photosynthetically-active radiation (FAPAR) based on remotely-sensed data in the largest Russian arid wetland territory. For the arid Volga-Akhtuba wetlands, FAPAR appears to be an informative spectral index for estimating plant cover health and its seasonal and annual dynamics. Since FAPAR algorithms are developed for multiple satellite sensors, all FAPAR-based models are suggested to be universal and useful for future studies and long-term monitoring of plant cover, particularly in wetlands. The model developed in the present work for FAPAR temporal dynamics clearly reflects the field-observed seasonal and annual changes of plant cover in the Volga-Akhtuba floodplain wetlands. Various types of wetland plant communities were categorized by the specific parameters of the model seasonal vegetation curve. In addition, the values derived from the model function allow quantitative estimation of wetland plant cover health. This information is particularly important for the Volga-Akhtuba floodplain, because its hydrological regime is regulated by the Volzhskaya hydropower plant. The ecosystem is extremely fragile and sensitive to human impact, and wetland plant cover health is a key indicator of regulatory efficiency. The present study is another step towards developing a methodology focused on arid wetland vegetation monitoring and conservation of its biodiversity and natural conditions.
Optimization and Validation of Rotating Current Excitation with GMR Array Sensors for Riveted Structures Inspection
Authors: Ye Chaofeng , Udpa Lalita , Udpa Satish
Published: September 2016

In eddy current non-destructive testing of a multi-layered riveted structure, rotating current excitation, generated by orthogonal coils, is advantageous in providing sensitivity to defects of all orientations. However, when used with linear array sensors, the exciting magnetic flux density ( B x ) of the orthogonal coils is not uniform over the sensor region, resulting in an output signal magnitude that depends on the relative location of the defect to the sensor array. In this paper, the rotating excitation coil is optimized to achieve a uniform B x field in the sensor array area and minimize the probe size. The current density distribution of the coil is optimized using the polynomial approximation method. A non-uniform coil design is derived from the optimized current density distribution. Simulation results, using both an optimized coil and a conventional coil, are generated using the finite element method (FEM) model. The signal magnitude for an optimized coil is seen to be more robust with respect to offset of defects from the coil center. A novel multilayer coil structure, fabricated on a multi-layer printed circuit board, is used to build the optimized coil. A prototype probe with the optimized coil and 32 giant magnetoresistive (GMR) sensors is built and tested on a two-layer riveted aluminum sample. Experimental results show that the optimized probe has better defect detection capability compared with a conventional non-optimized coil.
Navigation Aiding by a Hybrid Laser-Camera Motion Estimator for Micro Aerial Vehicles
Authors: Atman Jamal , Popp Manuel , Ruppelt Jan , Trommer Gert
Published: September 2016

Micro Air Vehicles (MAVs) equipped with various sensors are able to carry out autonomous flights. However, the self-localization of autonomous agents is mostly dependent on Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS). In order to provide an accurate navigation solution in absence of GNSS signals, this article presents a hybrid sensor. The hybrid sensor is a deep integration of a monocular camera and a 2D laser rangefinder so that the motion of the MAV is estimated. This realization is expected to be more flexible in terms of environments compared to laser-scan-matching approaches. The estimated ego-motion is then integrated in the MAV’s navigation system. However, first, the knowledge about the pose between both sensors is obtained by proposing an improved calibration method. For both calibration and ego-motion estimation, 3D-to-2D correspondences are used and the Perspective-3-Point (P3P) problem is solved. Moreover, the covariance estimation of the relative motion is presented. The experiments show very accurate calibration and navigation results.
Forward-Looking Infrared Cameras for Micrometeorological Applications within Vineyards
Authors: Katurji Marwan , Zawar-Reza Peyman
Published: September 2016

We apply the principles of atmospheric surface layer dynamics within a vineyard canopy to demonstrate the use of forward-looking infrared cameras measuring surface brightness temperature (spectrum bandwidth of 7.5 to 14 μm) at a relatively high temporal rate of 10 s. The temporal surface brightness signal over a few hours of the stable nighttime boundary layer, intermittently interrupted by periods of turbulent heat flux surges, was shown to be related to the observed meteorological measurements by an in situ eddy-covariance system, and reflected the above-canopy wind variability. The infrared raster images were collected and the resultant self-organized spatial cluster provided the meteorological context when compared to in situ data. The spatial brightness temperature pattern was explained in terms of the presence or absence of nighttime cloud cover and down-welling of long-wave radiation and the canopy turbulent heat flux. Time sequential thermography as demonstrated in this research provides positive evidence behind the application of thermal infrared cameras in the domain of micrometeorology, and to enhance our spatial understanding of turbulent eddy interactions with the surface.
Research on the Conductivity-Based Detection Principles of Bubbles in Two-Phase Flows and the Design of a Bubble Sensor for CBM Wells
Authors: Wu Chuan , Wen Guojun , Han Lei , Wu Xiaoming
Published: September 2016

The parameters of gas-liquid two-phase flow bubbles in field coalbed methane (CBM) wells are of great significance for analyzing coalbed methane output, judging faults in CBM wells, and developing gas drainage and extraction processes, which stimulates an urgent need for detecting bubble parameters for CBM wells in the field. However, existing bubble detectors cannot meet the requirements of the working environments of CBM wells. Therefore, this paper reports findings on the principles of measuring the flow pattern, velocity, and volume of two-phase flow bubbles based on conductivity, from which a new bubble sensor was designed. The structural parameters and other parameters of the sensor were then computed, the “water film phenomenon” produced by the sensor was analyzed, and the appropriate materials for making the sensor were tested and selected. After the sensor was successfully devised, laboratory tests and field tests were performed, and the test results indicated that the sensor was highly reliable and could detect the flow patterns of two-phase flows, as well as the quantities, velocities, and volumes of bubbles. With a velocity measurement error of ±5% and a volume measurement error of ±7%, the sensor can meet the requirements of field use. Finally, the characteristics and deficiencies of the bubble sensor are summarized based on an analysis of the measurement errors and a comparison of existing bubble-measuring devices and the designed sensor.
Friendly-Sharing: Improving the Performance of City Sensoring through Contact-Based Messaging Applications
Authors: Herrera-Tapia Jorge , Hernández-Orallo Enrique , Tomás Andrés , Manzoni Pietro , Tavares Calafate Carlos , Cano Juan-Carlos
Published: September 2016

Regular citizens equipped with smart devices are being increasingly used as “sensors” by Smart Cities applications. Using contacts among users, data in the form of messages is obtained and shared. Contact-based messaging applications are based on establishing a short-range communication directly between mobile devices, and on storing the messages in these devices for subsequent delivery to cloud-based services. An effective way to increase the number of messages that can be shared is to increase the contact duration. We thus introduce the Friendly-Sharing diffusion approach, where, during a contact, the users are aware of the time needed to interchange the messages stored in their buffers, and they can thus decide to wait more time in order to increase the message sharing probability. The performance of this approach is anyway closely related to the size of the buffer in the device. We therefore compare various policies either for the message selection at forwarding times and for message dropping when the buffer is full. We evaluate our proposal with a modified version of the Opportunistic Networking Environment (ONE) simulator and using real human mobility traces.
The More, the Merrier: Why and How Employee-Driven Eco-Innovation Enhances Environmental and Competitive Advantage
Authors: Buhl Anke , Blazejewski Susanne , Dittmer Franziska
Published: September 2016

Innovative solutions are often conjured as a key factor for companies to come closer to the goal of ecological sustainability. Furthermore, proactive eco-innovation activities can encompass competitive advantages. Companies are therefore well advised to tap any available source of innovation. However, although employees’ innovative capacity has often been described, to date, their manifold potentials for eco-innovation processes have hardly been examined in detail. The overarching research questions guiding this conceptual paper are why and how employee participation in eco-innovation processes can entail environmental and competitive advantages for companies. The authors introduce the concept of employee-driven eco-innovation (EDEI), defined here as ordinary employees’ voluntary engagement in innovation activities within an organizational context that, intentionally or not, lead to environmental improvements. This paper complements previous literature on employee-driven innovation (EDI) by applying it to the specific case of eco-innovation. In this context, employees’ comprehensive environmental competences resulting from “tacit knowledge”, “private consumer experience” and “green identity” are taken into account. In addition, we delineate critical intra-organizational factors for EDEI activities and illustrate green employees’ specific requirements in this regard.
Strategic Framework for Sustainable Management of Drainage Systems in Semi-Arid Cities: An Iraqi Case Study
Authors: Nanekely Mohammed , Scholz Miklas , Al-Faraj Furat
Published: September 2016

For the purpose of this paper, Erbil city, located in the northern part of Iraq, has been chosen as a representative case study for a large number of cities, particularly in semi-arid areas, lacking sustainable drainage systems (SuDS). The study assesses (a) the role of SuDS as a measure in areas with a water shortage; (b) water scarcity in decision-making processes; (c) the lack of legislation to implement SuDS; (d) the adverse effects of climate change on the urban drainage system; and (e) the effects of an increased population on SuDS implementation. An integrated methodology that incorporates a self-administrated questionnaire, workshops, face-to-face communication and interviews, as well as electronic media interactions, were used to achieve the objectives. A generic platform that consists of thirteen pillars, supporting the short to long-term national policies and strategies towards a sustainable urban drainage system, has been developed. Results showed that environmental laws need to be introduced. Findings also indicate that a growing population, which is partly due to an increase of internally displaced people, is a major challenge to an early application of SuDS, due to a rise in land demand and a lack of financial resources.
miR-218 Inhibits Proliferation, Migration, and EMT of Gastric Cancer Cells by Targeting WASF3
Authors: Wang Guojun , Fu Yang , Liu Guanghui , Ye Yanwei , Zhang Xiefu
Published: September 2016

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play an important role in carcinogenesis. miR-218 is one of the most known miRNAs and has been demonstrated to inhibit progression in gastric cancer. However, the underlying molecular mechanism is not established. In this study, qRT-PCR and Western blot indicated that miR-218 was downregulated in gastric cancer cell lines SGC7901 and BGC823 compared to that in normal gastric epithelial cell line GES-1. MTT and wound scratch assays suggested that overexpression of miR-218 markedly suppressed cell proliferation, migration, and EMT of gastric cancer cells. Furthermore, we proved that WASF3 was a direct target of miR-218 by luciferase reporter assay, and restoration of WASF3 expression impairs miR-218-induced inhibition of proliferation, migration, and EMT in gastric cancer cells SGC7901. In summary, our results demonstrated that miR-218 functions as one of the tumor-suppressive miRNAs and inhibits gastric cancer tumorigenesis by targeting WASF3. miR-218 may serve as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of gastric cancer.
Ammonia gas sensors based on In2O3/PANI hetero-nanofibers operating at room temperature
Authors: Nie Qingxin , Pang Zengyuan , Lu Hangyi , Cai Yibing , Wei Qufu
Published: September 2016

Indium nitrate/polyvinyl pyrrolidone (In(NO3)3/PVP) composite nanofibers were synthesized via electrospinning, and then hollow structure indium oxide (In2O3) nanofibers were obtained through calcination with PVP as template material. In situ polymerization was used to prepare indium oxide/polyaniline (In2O3/PANI) composite nanofibers with different mass ratios of In2O3 to aniline. The structure and morphology of In(NO3)3/PVP, In2O3/PANI composite nanofibers and pure PANI were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and current–voltage (I–V) measurements. The gas sensing properties of these materials towards NH3 vapor (100 to 1000 ppm) were measured at room temperature. The results revealed that the gas sensing abilities of In2O3/PANI composite nanofibers were better than pure PANI. In addition, the mass ratio of In2O3 to aniline and the p–n heterostructure between In2O3 and PANI influences the sensing performance of the In2O3/PANI composite nanofibers. In this paper, In2O3/PANI composite nanofibers with a mass ratio of 1:2 exhibited the highest response values, excellent selectivity, good repeatability and reversibility.
CLUMPY AND EXTENDED STARBURSTS IN THE BRIGHTEST UNLENSED SUBMILLIMETER GALAXIES
Authors: Iono Daisuke , Yun Min S. , Aretxaga Itziar , Hatsukade Bunyo , Hughes David , Ikarashi Soh , Izumi Takuma , Kawabe Ryohei , Kohno Kotaro , Lee Minju , Matsuda Yuichi , Nakanishi Kouichiro , Saito Toshiki , Tamura Yoichi , Ueda Junko , Umehata Hideki , Wilson Grant , Michiyama Tomonari , Ando Misaki
Published: September 2016

The central structure in three of the brightest unlensed z = 3–4 submillimeter galaxies is investigated through 0.″015–0.″05 (120–360 pc) 860 μm continuum images obtained using the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA). The distribution in the central kiloparsec in AzTEC1 and AzTEC8 is extremely complex, and they are composed of multiple ∼200 pc clumps. AzTEC4 consists of two sources that are separated by ∼1.5 kpc, indicating a mid-stage merger. The peak star formation rate densities in the central clumps are ∼300–3000 M
⊙ yr−1 kpc−2, suggesting regions with extreme star formation near the Eddington limit. By comparing the flux obtained by ALMA and Submillimeter Array, we find that 68%–90% of the emission is extended (≳1 kpc) in AzTEC4 and 8. For AzTEC1, we identify at least 11 additional compact (∼200 pc) clumps in the extended 3–4 kpc region. Overall, the data presented here suggest that the luminosity surface densities observed at ≲150 pc scales are roughly similar to that observed in local ULIRGs, as in the eastern nucleus of Arp 220. Between 10% and 30% of the 860 μm continuum is concentrated in clumpy structures in the central kiloparsec, while the remaining flux is distributed over ≳1 kpc regions, some of which could also be clumpy. These sources can be explained by a rapid inflow of gas such as a merger of gas-rich galaxies, surrounded by extended and clumpy starbursts. However, the cold mode accretion model is not ruled out.
A Comparison of Students and Non-Students with Respect to Orientation toward E-Cigarettes
Authors: Trumbo Craig W. , Harper Raquel
Published: September 2016

We examine differences between college students and non-students with respect to orientation toward e-cigarettes. Participants were U.S. adults 18-24 (465 students, 409 non-students). Data collection employed an online survey by GfK Custom Research. Smoking, vaping, and use of alternate tobacco were assessed, as were variables from the Theory of Reasoned Action and Diffusion of Innovations. This study showed that smoking status largely explains use and orientation toward electronic cigarettes among both students and non-students, with differences attributable to higher smoking rates among non-students. Results also showed that among student smokers there was a greater level of information exposure concerning electronic cigarettes, and more prevalence in the use of alternate tobacco. Hookah use in that group was significantly greater than for non-student smokers. Together these findings suggest that students may be more vulnerable to electronic cigarette use due to higher related information exposure and the integration of vaping into hookah culture.
Take a Page from Your Coach's Play Book: Teaching Technical and Tactical Skills in Athletic Training
Authors: Hawkins Jeremy R. , Sharp Elizabeth B. , Williams Skip M.
Published: September 2016

Context

The ability to demonstrate sound clinical reasoning is needed for a practicing athletic trainer. However, instruction on how to make a correct clinical decision may be deficient in many athletic training programs.

Objective

To provide an overview of how to teach technical and tactical skills, using both a tradition and a nontraditional approach, and to apply this teaching method to athletic training education.

Background

The teaching of technical skills involves four steps: (1) introduction, (2) demonstration and explanation, (3) practice, and (4) error correction. The teaching of tactical skills takes technical skills a step further by putting them into action. To teach a tactical skill, coaches (1) identify the decision to be made, (2) determine knowledge needed to make a good decision, (3) identify cues that should or should not be attended to, and help to ensure the cues are interpreted correctly, (4) determine appropriate tactical options, and (5) design an opportunity to practice reading the situation and choosing appropriate tactics. Applying this approach to athletic training, students may be better prepared to make good decisions when placed in a situation to do so.

Description

This paper discusses how applying a methodology for teaching technical and tactical skills will help athletic training students to become better at clinical decision making. It also provides an application example that can be adapted to other situations aiding in the implementation of this approach.

Clinical Advantage(s)

This approach can be applied to numerous situations and scenarios, preparing athletic training students to be better clinicians through proper clinical reasoning and decision making.

Conclusion(s)

The ability to reason clinically is a foundational skill that needs to be taught in athletic training programs. Teaching technical and tactical skills is a viable method to help athletic training students develop this skill.
Preceptor Understanding, Comfort, and Use Related to Evidence-Based Practice Competencies
Authors: Carr W. David , Volberding Jennifer L. , Timson Ben
Published: September 2016

Context

The Fifth Edition of the National Athletic Trainers' Association Athletic Training Education Competencies includes the significant addition of competencies covering evidence-based practice (EBP). While the concept of EBP is not new, the terminology in the Competencies may be new to clinical practitioners who did not receive the same educational experiences.

Objective

The objective was to explore the understanding, comfort, and use related to EBP competencies by preceptors. Specifically, we explored the efficacy of an educational intervention designed to increase preceptors' understanding of, comfort with, and use of the EBP competencies.

Design

Participants were assigned to an experimental or control group. A pretest and posttest design was used to measure understanding, comfort, and use. An educational intervention designed to increase understanding, comfort, and use of the EBP competencies was used with the experimental group. The education intervention was a combination of presentations, student-led article reviews, and a student-led project.

Setting

The study was completed at a large state-affiliated Midwest university.

Patients or Other Participants

Nineteen preceptors from the collegiate and high school setting (12 men and 7 women, average age = 32 ± 8.3 years, average experience = 8.1 ± 8.8 years).

Main Outcome Measures

A survey instrument (EBP Preceptor Survey) was designed and tested for reliability (α = .979). All participants completed the EBP Preceptor Survey before and then after the intervention. Experimental preceptors completed the education intervention. Repeated-measures analysis of covariance was used to detect pretest to posttest differences at the P ≤ .01 significance level.

Results

Statistically significant results indicate that after the intervention the experimental preceptors increased understanding for 4 of the 14 competencies, comfort for 9 of the 14 competencies, and use for 1 of the 14 competencies.

Conclusions

A focused education intervention may increase understanding and comfort but might not increase use of EBP concepts.
The Impact of Instructor Expertise and Competency on Student Learning and Strategies for Improvement
Authors: Turocy Paula Sammarone
Published: September 2016

Context

Paradoxes exist in athletic training education. Practicing athletic trainers must be able to demonstrate competency in the knowledge, skills, and abilities that span the scope of practice. To supervise students preparing to be athletic trainers, preceptors must be credentialed to practice and meet continuing education requirements across the scope of practice. However, to teach students in the classroom/lab settings, athletic training faculty must be “qualified through professional preparation and experienced in their respective academic areas as determined by the institution,” “be recognized by the institution as having instructional responsibilities,” and must “incorporate the most current athletic training knowledge, skills, and abilities as they pertain to their respective teaching areas.” These requirements then help to prompt the question of how to transition athletic training educators from competent professionals who are clinical generalist to experts in both the content and clinical skills they are required to teach.

Objective

To describe the differences between expert and novice teachers, as well as the impact of content expertise on athletic training student learning. Suggestions for improving content expertise and teaching expertise also will be discussed.

Background

Distinct differences exist in not only the methods used but also the learning outcomes of novice versus expert faculty. Faculty who have both content and clinical expertise in the areas that they teach are able to maximize student learning by making connections within and across content areas, as well as understand and adapt to their learners. Lacking this foundational background, novice teachers spend much of their limited planning time learning required content or trying to create appropriate ways to teach that content. While students are able to recognize differences between expert and novice teachers and learn despite the effectiveness of the teacher, learning is better and at greater depths when the teachers are more expert.
Reliability of the Superimposed-Burst Technique in Patients With Patellofemoral Pain: A Technical Report
Authors: Norte Grant E. , Frye Jamie L. , Hart Joseph M.
Published: September 2016

Context

 The superimposed-burst (SIB) technique is commonly used to quantify central activation failure after knee-joint injury, but its reliability has not been established in pathologic cohorts.

Objective

 To assess within-session and between-sessions reliability of the SIB technique in patients with patellofemoral pain.

Design

 Descriptive laboratory study.

Setting

 University laboratory.

Patients or Other Participants

 A total of 10 patients with self-reported patellofemoral pain (1 man, 9 women; age = 24.1 ± 3.8 years, height = 167.8 ± 15.2 cm, mass = 71.6 ± 17.5 kg) and 10 healthy control participants (3 men, 7 women; age = 27.4 ± 5.0 years, height = 173.5 ± 9.9 cm, mass = 78.2 ± 16.5 kg) volunteered.

Intervention(s)

 Participants were assessed at 6 intervals spanning 21 days. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs [3,3]) were used to assess reliability.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

 Quadriceps central activation ratio, knee-extension maximal voluntary isometric contraction force, and SIB force.

Results

 The quadriceps central activation ratio was highly reliable within session (ICC [3,3] = 0.97) and between sessions through day 21 (ICC [3,3] = 0.90–0.95). Acceptable reliability of knee extension (ICC [3,3] = 0.75–0.91) and SIB force (ICC [3,3] = 0.77–0.89) was observed through day 21.

Conclusions

 The SIB technique was reliable for clinical research up to 21 days in patients with patellofemoral pain.
Landing Technique and Performance in Youth Athletes After a Single Injury-Prevention Program Session
Authors: Root Hayley , Trojian Thomas , Martinez Jessica , Kraemer William , DiStefano Lindsay J.
Published: September 2016

Context

Injury-prevention programs (IPPs) performed as season-long warm-ups improve injury rates, performance outcomes, and jump-landing technique. However, concerns regarding program adoption exist. Identifying the acute benefits of using an IPP compared with other warm-ups may encourage IPP adoption.

Objective

To examine the immediate effects of 3 warm-up protocols (IPP, static warm-up [SWU], or dynamic warm-up [DWU]) on jump-landing technique and performance measures in youth athletes.

Design

Randomized controlled clinical trial.

Setting

Gymnasiums.

Patients or Other Participants

Sixty male and 29 female athletes (age = 13 ± 2 years, height = 162.8 ± 12.6 cm, mass = 37.1 ± 13.5 kg) volunteered to participate in a single session.

Intervention(s)

Participants were stratified by age, sex, and sport and then were randomized into 1 protocol: IPP, SWU, or DWU. The IPP consisted of dynamic flexibility, strengthening, plyometric, and balance exercises and emphasized proper technique. The SWU consisted of jogging and lower extremity static stretching. The DWU consisted of dynamic lower extremity flexibility exercises. Participants were assessed for landing technique and performance measures immediately before (PRE) and after (POST) completing their warm-ups.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

One rater graded each jump-landing trial using the Landing Error Scoring System. Participants performed a vertical jump, long jump, shuttle run, and jump-landing task in randomized order. The averages of all jump-landing trials and performance variables were used to calculate 1 composite score for each variable at PRE and POST. Change scores were calculated (POST − PRE) for all measures. Separate 1-way (group) analyses of variance were conducted for each dependent variable (α < .05).

Results

No differences were observed among groups for any performance measures (P > .05). The Landing Error Scoring System scores improved after the IPP (change = −0.40 ± 1.24 errors) compared with the DWU (0.27 ± 1.09 errors) and SWU (0.43 ± 1.35 errors; P = .04).

Conclusions

An IPP did not impair sport performance and may have reduced injury risk, which supports the use of these programs before sport activity.
A Preliminary Formula to Predict Timing of Symptom Resolution for Collegiate Athletes Diagnosed With Sport Concussion
Authors: Resch Jacob E. , Brown Cathleen N. , Macciocchi Stephen N. , Cullum C. Munro , Blueitt Damond , Ferrara Michael S.
Published: September 2016

Context

Symptom presentation and recovery after sport concussion (SC) are variable. Empirically based models documenting typical symptom duration would assist health care providers in managing return to play after SC.

Objective

To develop a prediction model for SC symptom duration.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Two National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I university laboratories.

Patients or Other Participants

Seventy-six (51 male and 25 female) concussed athletes with an average age of 19.5 ± 1.65 years who were evaluated within 24 hours of diagnosis.

Intervention(s)

Participants completed the Revised Head Injury Scale (HIS-r), Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing (ImPACT), and Sensory Organization Test within 24 hours of SC diagnosis.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

A stepwise multivariate regression incorporating ImPACT and Sensory Organization Test composites and HIS-r symptom severity-duration was used to predict the number of days athletes reported symptoms after SC. The resulting regression formula was cross-validated using the Stine cross-validation coefficient.

Results

The final formula consisted of the HIS-r's self-reported neck pain, drowsiness, tingling, and nervousness duration and ImPACT total symptom severity (R = 0.62, R2 = 39%, R2adj = 34.2%, P < .001). Approximately 29% (R2cv = 29%) of the variance associated with total days symptomatic after SC was explained by our preliminary formula when cross-validated. The current formula correctly identified 76% of participants who recovered within 10 days of injury.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that self-reported duration of 4 symptoms during the initial 24 hours after injury along with total symptom severity as measured by ImPACT accounted for a considerable amount of variance associated with days symptomatic after SC in collegiate athletes. Until the formula is cross-validated in a college-aged sample, caution is warranted in using it clinically.
Pressure on Sports Medicine Clinicians to Prematurely Return Collegiate Athletes to Play After Concussion
Authors: Kroshus Emily , Baugh Christine M. , Daneshvar Daniel H. , Stamm Julie M. , Laursen R. Mark , Austin S. Bryn
Published: September 2016

Context

 Anecdotal and qualitative evidence has suggested that some clinicians face pressure from coaches and other personnel in the athletic environment to prematurely return athletes to participation after a concussion. This type of pressure potentially can result in compromised patient care.

Objective

 To quantify the extent to which clinicians in the collegiate sports medicine environment experience pressure when caring for concussed athletes and whether this pressure varies by the supervisory structure of the institution's sports medicine department, the clinician's sex, and other factors.

Design

 Cross-sectional study.

Setting

 Web-based survey of National College Athletic Association member institutions.

Patients or Other Participants

 A total of 789 athletic trainers and 111 team physicians from 530 institutions.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

 We asked participants whether they had experienced pressure from 3 stakeholder populations (other clinicians, coaches, athletes) to prematurely return athletes to participation after a concussion. Modifying variables that we assessed were the position (athletic trainer, physician) and sex of the clinicians, the supervisory structure of their institutions' sports medicine departments, and the division of competition in which their institutions participate.

Results

 We observed that 64.4% (n = 580) of responding clinicians reported having experienced pressure from athletes to prematurely clear them to return to participation after a concussion, and 53.7% (n = 483) reported having experienced this pressure from coaches. Only 6.6% (n = 59) reported having experienced pressure from other clinicians to prematurely clear an athlete to return to participation after a concussion. Clinicians reported greater pressure from coaches when their departments were under the supervisory purview of the athletic department rather than a medical institution. Female clinicians reported greater pressure from coaches than male clinicians did.

Conclusions

 Most clinicians reported experiencing pressure to prematurely return athletes to participation after a concussion. Identifying factors that are associated with variability in pressure on clinicians during concussion recovery can inform potential future strategies to reduce these pressures.
Student-Retention and Career-Placement Rates Between Bachelor's and Master's Degree Professional Athletic Training Programs
Authors: Bowman Thomas G. , Mazerolle Stephanie M. , Pitney William A. , Dodge Thomas M. , Hertel Jay
Published: September 2016

Context

 The debate over what the entry-level degree should be for athletic training has heightened. A comparison of retention and career-placement rates between bachelor's and master's degree professional athletic training programs may inform the debate.

Objective

 To compare the retention rates and career-placement rates of students in bachelor's and master's degree professional programs.

Design

 Cross-sectional study.

Setting

 Web-based survey.

Patients or Other Participants

 A total of 192 program directors (PDs) from bachelor's degree (n = 177) and master's degree (n = 15) professional programs.

Intervention(s)

 The PDs completed a Web-based survey.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

 We instructed the PDs to provide a retention rate and career-placement rate for the students in the programs they lead for each of the past 5 years. We also asked the PDs if they thought retention of students was a problem currently facing athletic training education. We used independent t tests to compare the responses between bachelor's and master's degree professional programs.

Results

 We found a higher retention rate for professional master's degree students (88.70% ± 9.02%, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 83.71, 93.69) than bachelor's degree students (80.98% ± 17.86%, 95% CI = 78.30, 83.66) (t25 = −2.86, P = .008, d = 0.55). Similarly, PDs from professional master's degree programs reported higher career-placement percentages (88.50% ± 10.68%, 95% CI = 82.33, 94.67) than bachelor's degree professional PDs (71.32% ± 18.47%, 95% CI = 68.54, 74.10) (t20 = −5.40, P < .001, d = 1.14). Finally, we observed no difference between groups regarding whether retention is a problem facing athletic training (χ21 = 0.720, P = .40, Φ = .061).

Conclusions

 Professional master's degree education appears to facilitate higher retention rates and greater career-placement rates in athletic training than bachelor's degree education. Professional socialization, program selectivity, and student commitment and motivation levels may help to explain the differences noted.
Pain-Coping Traits of Nontraditional Women Athletes: Relevance to Optimal Treatment and Rehabilitation
Authors: Meyers Michael C. , Higgs Robert , LeUnes Arnold D. , Bourgeois Anthony E. , Laurent C. Matthew
Published: September 2016

Context

The primary goal of traditional treatment and rehabilitation programs is to safely return athletes to full functional capacity. Nontraditional activities such as rock climbing or rodeo are typically less training structured and coach structured; individualism, self-determination, and autonomy are more prevalent than observed in athletes in National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)-sponsored sports. The limited research available on nontraditional athletes has provided the athletic trainer little insight into the coping skills and adaptations to stressors that these athletes may bring into the clinical setting, especially among the growing number of women participating in these types of activities. A better understanding of the pain-coping traits of nontraditional competitors would enhance insight and triage procedures while heading off potential athlete-related risk factors in the clinical setting.

Objective

To quantify and compare pain-coping traits among individual-sport women athletes participating in nontraditional versus traditional NCAA-structured competition, with relevance to optimal treatment and rehabilitation.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Data collected during each participant's respective group meeting before seasonal activity.

Participants or Other Participants

A total of 298 athletes involved in either nontraditional, non-NCAA individual sports (n = 152; mean age = 20.2 ± 1.3 years; downhill skiing, martial arts, rock climbing, rodeo, skydiving, telemark skiing) or traditional NCAA sports (n = 146; mean age = 20.3 ± 1.4 years; equestrian, golf, swimming/diving, tennis, track).

Main Outcome Measure(s)

All participants completed the Sports Inventory for Pain, a sport-specific, self-report instrument that measures pain-coping traits relevant to competition, treatment, and rehabilitation. Trait measures were direct coping, cognitive, catastrophizing, avoidance, body awareness, and total coping response. Data were grouped for analyses by type of athlete (nontraditional, traditional).

Results

We found a significant main effect for type of athlete (Wilks' λ F6,291 = 12.922; P = .0001). Nontraditional sport athletes scored lower on direct coping (P = .0001), cognitive (P = .0001), catastrophizing (P = .0001), and total coping response (P = .0001) than traditional athletes.

Conclusions

Women participating in nontraditional individual-sport activity revealed less pronounced pain-coping traits than women participating in more coach-structured, traditional NCAA sports. Sport and medical personnel should consider the type of athlete when prescribing training, treatment, and rehabilitation for optimal performance and return to play.
Patient-Reported Outcome Measures in Individuals With Chronic Ankle Instability: A Systematic Review
Authors: Houston Megan N. , Hoch Johanna M. , Hoch Matthew C.
Published: September 2016

Context

 A comprehensive systematic literature review of the health-related quality-of-life (HRQOL) differences among individuals with chronic ankle instability (CAI), ankle-sprain copers, and healthy control participants has not been conducted. It could provide a better indication of the self-reported deficits that may be present in individuals with CAI.

Objective

 To systematically summarize the extent to which HRQOL deficits are present in individuals with CAI.

Data Sources

 We searched for articles in the electronic databases of EBSCO Host and PubMed Central using key words chronic, functional, mechanical, coper, instability, sprains, and patient-assessed. We also performed a hand search of reference lists, authors, and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) of the articles screened for inclusion.

Study Selection

 Studies were included if they (1) incorporated a PRO as a participant descriptor or as a study outcome to compare adults with CAI to ankle-sprain copers or healthy controls, (2) were written in English, and (3) were published in peer-reviewed journals.

Data Extraction

 Two authors independently assessed methodologic quality using the modified Downs and Black Index. Articles were filtered into 3 categories based on between-groups comparisons: CAI and copers, CAI and healthy control participants, copers and healthy participants. We calculated Hedges g effect sizes and 95% confidence intervals to examine PRO group differences.

Data Synthesis

 Of the 124 studies assessed for eligibility, 27 were included. A total of 24 articles compared PROs in individuals with CAI and healthy controls, 7 compared individuals with CAI and copers, and 4 compared copers and healthy controls. Quality scores on the modified Downs and Black Index ranged from 52.9% to 88.2%, with 8 high-, 16 moderate-, and 3 low-quality studies. Overall, we observed moderate to strong evidence that individuals with CAI displayed deficits on generic and region-specific PROs compared with copers and healthy controls. However, evidence that differences exist between copers and healthy controls was conflicting. In addition, for dimension-specific outcomes, evidence to suggest that fear of reinjury is heightened in individuals with CAI was limited.

Conclusions

 The evidence suggested that CAI is associated with functional and HRQOL deficits, particularly when examined with region-specific PROs. However, PROs do not appear to differ between copers and healthy controls.
Exploring the Transition to Practice for the Newly Credentialed Athletic Trainer: A Programmatic View
Authors: Mazerolle Stephanie M. , Walker Stacy E. , Thrasher Ashley Brooke
Published: September 2016

Context

 Some newly credentialed athletic trainers (ATs) pursue a postprofessional degree with a curriculum that specifically advances their athletic training practice. It is unknown how those postprofessional programs assist in their transition to practice.

Objective

 To gain an understanding of initiatives used by postprofessional athletic training programs to facilitate role transition from student to professional during their graduate degree programs.

Design

 Qualitative study.

Setting

 Semistructured telephone interviews.

Patients or Other Participants

 A total of 19 program directors (10 men, 9 women) from 13 Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education-accredited and 6 unaccredited postprofessional athletic training programs.

Data Collection and Analysis

 Telephone interviews were recorded digitally and transcribed verbatim. For data analysis, we used the principles of general inductive approach. Credibility was maintained using peer review, member checks, and researcher triangulation.

Results

 Three facilitators of transition to practice emerged: orientation sessions, mentoring, and assistantship. Participants used orientation sessions ranging from a few hours to more than 1 week to provide and discuss program polices and expectations and to outline roles and responsibilities. Faculty, preceptors, and mentors were integrated into the orientation for the academic and clinical portions of the program. All participants described a mentoring process in which students were assigned by the program or informally developed. Mentors included the assigned preceptor, a staff AT, or peer students in the program. The clinical assistantship provided exposure to the daily aspects of being an AT. Barriers to transition to practice included previous educational experiences and time management. Participants reported that students with more diverse didactic and clinical education experiences had easier transitions. The ability to manage time also emerged as a challenge.

Conclusions

 Postprofessional athletic training programs used a formal orientation session as an initial means to help the newly credentialed AT transition into the role. Mentoring provided both more informal and ongoing support during the transition.
Forearm Skin Blood Flow After Kinesiology Taping in Healthy Soccer Players: An Exploratory Investigation
Authors: Woodward Kirsty A. , Unnithan Vish , Hopkins Nicola D.
Published: September 2016

Context

Kinesiology tape (KT) has become popular among athletes for both injury prevention and rehabilitation due to its reported therapeutic effects, including facilitation of lymphatic flow and enhanced peripheral blood flow. However, evidence to support such claims is insufficient.

Objective

To determine whether KT improves skin blood flow (SkBF) responses in young, elite soccer players.

Design

Randomized crossover study.

Setting

Research laboratory.

Patients or Other Participants

Thirteen healthy, elite, adolescent male soccer players (age = 14.7 ± 0.6 years).

Intervention(s)

Participants completed 2 experimental trials; during trial 1, the volar aspect of the dominant forearm was taped. Forearm SkBF was measured within the taped area and 3 cm lateral to the taped area. During trial 2, no tape was applied to either site. Both trials were performed within 7 days.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Baseline and maximal thermally (42°C) stimulated SkBF responses were assessed using laser Doppler flowmetry. Continuously measured SkBF and derived mean arterial pressure obtained at 5-minute intervals were used to calculate cutaneous vascular conductance (CVC), the primary outcome measure.

Results

No differences were observed for baseline SkBF or CVC between trials or measurement sites. After local heating, no differences were evident for SkBF or CVC between trials or measurement sites.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that, in healthy, trained adolescent males, KT was not associated with increased forearm SkBF.