bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Motor Sequencing of Boys with Learning Disabilities: Modeling and Verbal Rehearsal Strategies
Authors: Kowalski Ellen M. , Sherrill Claudine
Published: August 2016

This study examined the effects of model type and verbal rehearsal strategy in relation to motor sequencing of boys with learning disabilities (LD). Eighty boys, ages 7 and 8 years, were exposed to four experimental conditions in a 2 × 2 (Model × Verbal Rehearsal Strategy) design. Subjects were randomly assigned to one of four groups: (a) visual-silent model/verbal rehearsal, (b) visual-verbal model/verbal rehearsal, (c) visual-silent model/ no verbal rehearsal, and (d) visual-verbal model/ no verbal rehearsal. The four groups were statistically equal on measures of age, IQ, behavior, learner modality preference, and motor proficiency. Data collected for experimental analysis were generated by the Motor Sequencing Test which measured the ability to model seven locomotor tasks in the correct order. Results revealed that the boys with LD performed significantly better on the motor sequencing test when trained in verbal rehearsal strategy. However, results indicated no significant difference in motor sequencing under visual-silent and visual-verbal model conditions.
Clicking for a Cause: Using Social Media Campaigns to Drive Awareness for Golf Tournaments and Charitable Organizations
Authors: Hambrick Marion E. , Mahoney Tara Q. , Calabrese Rich
Published: August 2016

Sport industry leaders have recognized the popularity of social media; however, some have struggled with quantifying the benefits of such usage (Fisher, 2009). This case explores the potential opportunities social media sites can provide to sport organizations. Golf tournament organizer TampaTourneys, LLC created an administrative Facebook page to keep its Facebook users informed about events. The organization also used the page to promote a cause related marketing campaign benefitting a charitable fundraiser. Partnering with Blackhawk Computers, TampaTourneys initiated a week-long campaign, which encouraged the tournament organizer’s Facebook fans to tell their respective Facebook friends about the fundraiser and become fans of the TampaTourneys Facebook page. In turn, the organization made a monetary donation on behalf of its current and new fans. Based on the campaign’s success, TampaTourneys decided to initiate a second and longer fundraising effort. The case asks students to analyze data collected from the first fundraising campaign and develop a new campaign for the tournament organizer.
A Budgeting Crisis at Little State University
Authors: McEvoy Chad D. , Gray Dianna P.
Published: August 2016

The Little State University Athletic Department faces an immediate budgeting crisis. Due to state budgeting woes, the legislature has reduced its allocation to Little State significantly for the upcoming year. The impact of this reduction included a loss of $800,000 to the athletic department, which represents approximately ten percent of the athletic budget. LSU Athletic Director Beth Duncan must determine how to best make the necessary cuts while preserving a strong department and minimizing the impact on student-athletes.
A Case Study of Diversity and Leader Member Exchange in Intercollegiate Athletics
Authors: Todd Samuel Y. , Christie Ian , Magnusen Marshall J. , Harris Kenneth J.
Published: August 2016

This case highlights key elements in Pelled’s (1996) model of diversity, and is based on real life interactions of an actual grounds crew in intercollegiate baseball. The small work group of three individuals collectively prepares the grounds of a new collegiate ballpark for opening day. In the course of daily facility maintenance, the staff encounters both affective and substantive conflict according to Pelled’s model. This leads to both destructive and constructive performance outcomes. Also of issue in the case is the differential relationship that the supervisor shares with each of his subordinates, or leader member exchange (LMX). Together with the teaching notes, the case is designed to highlight (1) elements of group conflict arising from demographic diversity and (2) the nature of LMX within sport organizations. An overview of theory, student applications, and discussion questions and answers are provided to aid instructors in teaching this case.
The Turnips: A Study in Leadership
Authors: White Joel
Published: August 2016

The behavior of Grover Flanks, manager of the Topeka Turnips (a fictional Minor League affiliate of the Kansas City Royals), has become a worry for the owners of the team. Flanks, a local hero, has gone from hometown attraction to on-field distraction for the Turnips. For Flanks, profane, on-field tirades are commonplace, and rule-breaking is the norm. The manager’s bad behavior is threatening the owners’ ability to secure financing for a lucrative new stadium. However, Flanks is extremely popular with the fans and is the sole reason many fans come to see the mediocre club, so firing the manager is not an option. The owners are understandably worried.

Gene Meebles is the young general manager of the Turnips who has been tasked by the owners to put an end to the Flanks problem and save the stadium deal. Meebles must find a way to relate to the fiery manager and curb his behavior. This case study examines how Meebles can do so using transactional and/or transformational leadership.
Snakes in Sneakers: A Case Study of Organizational Politics in a NCAA Division I Athletics Program
Authors: Magnusen Marshall , Gallucci Andrew , Kelly Stephen , Brown Josh
Published: August 2016

This case is a creative illustration of organizational politics in a National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) sports setting. It includes the exploration of several key concepts: political will, political skill, political perceptions, political behavior, and political influence theory. Upon arriving to his new job at the Division I level, an assistant men’s basketball coach finds himself to be a key piece in a political chess match between the highly successful Head Coach of the men’s basketball team and the Athletic Director (AD). The issue at hand is the hiring of the new assistant coach by the AD without the support of the head coach. The hire is an attempt by the AD to subvert and eventually replace the legendary head coach who, in the eyes of the AD, is long past his prime. Accordingly, the new hire encounters a variety of political scenarios, including strong resistance from the players and coaching staff of the men’s basketball team. This case, with the addition of detailed teaching notes, is designed to highlight salient elements of organizational politics to undergraduate and graduate sport management students, and explain how they can successfully apply this information and more effectively operate in the political sports arena.
College Athletes’ Expectations About Injury Rehabilitation With an Athletic Trainer
Authors: Hart Joe , Clement Damien , Hamson-Utley Jordan , Arvinen-Barrow Monna , Kamphoff Cindra , Zakrajsek Rebecca A. , Martin Scott B.
Published: August 2016

Context:

Injured athletes begin the rehabilitation process with expectations about the nature of the working relationship with an athletic trainer. These expectations can infuence the effectiveness of the assistance provided.

Objective:

To determine whether male and female athletes differed in terms of expectations about injury rehabilitation services with an athletic trainer.

Design:

A questionnaire was administered to student athletes that assessed expectations about injury rehabilitation. Setting: Five colleges and universities.

Patients or Other Participants:

Questionnaire responses were provided by 679 student athletes (443 males and 236 females).

Main Outcome Measure:

Responses to the Expectations about Athletic Training questionnaire were used to assess factors identifed as Personal Commitment, Facilitative Conditions, Athletic Trainer Expertise, and Realism.

Results:

A statistically signifcant interaction between gender and prior experience was identifed. Male athletes with no prior experience had lower expectations for a facilitative environment. Female athletes with prior experience were less likely to have realistic expectations.

Conclusions:

Gender and prior experience infuence athletes’ expectations of injury rehabilitation with an athletic trainer.
Scapulothoracic Muscle Activation on Stable and Unstable Support Surfaces
Authors: Park Se-yeon , Yoo Won-gyu , Kwon Hun , Kim Dong-hyun , Lee Si-eun , Park Mi-jin
Published: August 2016

Activation of the upper trapezius, lower trapezius, serratus anterior, and triceps brachii muscles was measured, while center of pressure excursion beneath the hands was simultaneously monitored, during the performance of a push-up exercise on both a stable and an unstable base of support. The activation levels of all muscles were significantly greater for the unstable support surface when compared to those for a stable support surface (p < 0.05). A negative correlation was found between activation of the serriatus anterior muscle and center of pressure excursion (r = -0.64, p < 0.05). Performance of the push-up exercise on an unstable support surface appears to elicit greater muscle activation than a standard push-up exercise performed on a stable support surface.
Cryotherapy Effects, Part 2: Time to Numbness Onset and Numbness Duration
Authors: Cataldi Jenna K. , Pritchard Kimberly A. , Hart Joseph M. , Saliba Susan A.
Published: August 2016

Context:

Recommended treatment duration for cryotherapy varies, but the primary therapeutic benefit may be related to the amount of time required for changes in cutaneous sensation.

Objective:

To determine the amount of time required to induce numbness for three different modes of cryotherapy administration, and the amount of time that numbness persists after treatment.

Design:

Repeated measures.

Participants:

30 healthy adults (12 males, 18 females, age = 21.1 ± 1.9 years).

Interventions:

Crushed ice bag, ice massage, and cold water immersion.

Main Outcome Measures:

Time required to induce numbness and the amount of time numbness remained after removal of each mode of cryotherapy.

Results:

Ice massage and cold water immersion produced numbness significantly faster than the crushed ice. There were no significant differences in terms of numbness duration.

Conclusions:

Changes in cutaneous sensation can be achieved in a relatively short amount of time (6–12 minutes) with ice massage and cold water immersion. The duration of the treatment effect did not differ among the three modes of cryotherapy administration.
Physical Examination of the Thorax and Abdomen
Authors: Eberman Lindsey , Mata Heather , Kahanov Leamor
Published: August 2016

Student acquisition of psychomotor skills in athletic training is diffcult, particularly those pertaining to non-orthopedic injuries and illnesses, which are less common in our patient populations. We provide examples of lesson plans to improve physical examination of the thorax and abdomen. Each lesson (the scratch test, utilization of a noise-immune stethoscope, tactile fremitus, and intent auscultation) allows students to engage in performance of the skill and expand contextual knowledge to enhance skill acquisition and learning.
Factors Influencing Retention of Male Athletic Trainers in the NCAA Division I Setting
Authors: Mazerolle Stephanie M. , Goodman Ashley , Pitney William A.
Published: August 2016

Context:

Social support, autonomy, and job satisfaction are among the factors influencing female athletic trainers' decisions to remain in the National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I (NCAA D-I) setting, but the male perspective has not been documented.

Objective:

Identify factors that affect male athletic trainers' decisions to remain in the NCAA D-I setting.

Design:

Qualitative study. Participants: 11 male athletictrainers who averaged 6 ± 6 years of NCAA D-I clinical experience, 66 ± 10 working hours per week during the traditional sport season, and 34 ± 5 years of age.

Data collection and analysis:

In-depth, semistructured interviews. Two researchers followed the steps of a grounded theory study and analyzed data independently.

Results:

Two main persistence themes emerged from the data: (1) D-I atmosphere and (2) workplace environment.

Conclusions:

Our findings suggest that male athletic trainers remain in the NCAA D-I setting because of satisfaction with their employment, which includes a competitive atmosphere, strong coworker relationships, and support from their supervisors.
Assessment of Kinematic Asymmetry for Reduction of Hamstring Injury Risk
Authors: Ciacci Simone , Di Michele Rocco , Fantozzi Silvia , Merni Franco
Published: August 2016

Context:

Kinematic asymmetry is believed to be associated with elevated risk for muscle injury, but little is known about the links between hamstring injuries and asymmetry of sprinting mechanics.

Objective:

To evaluate the value of kinematic analysis of sprinting for the detection of injury-related asymmetry in athletes with a history of hamstring strain.

Participants:

Six sub-elite male sprinters, including two who sustained a hamstring strain injury.

Outcome Measures:

Absolute differences between left and right symmetry indices and symmetry angles were both calculated for ground contact time and selected angular displacements. Measurements were acquired at foot strike, during the stance phase, and at toe-off.

Results:

At toe-off, injured athletes exhibited greater knee flexion and less hip extension for the injured extremity compared to the uninjured extremity. Symmetry indices for these variables markedly exceeded an established 15% threshold for clinically relevant asymmetry. Each of the uninjured athletes exhibited a high degree of symmetry for all parameters, with mean values for symmetry indices significantly lower than the 15% threshold (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

Kinematic analysis of sprinting asymmetry appears to be valuable for identification of elevated risk for hamstring injury.
Differences in Body Segment Energy Utilization between World-Class and Recreational Cross-Country Skiers
Authors: Norman Robert , Caldwell Graham , Komi Paavo
Published: August 2016

Differences in the utilization of body segment movements between world-class and recreational cross-country skiers which result in a longer stride of the elite were studied using mechanical energy analyses. Nine world-class racers and six recreational skiers (novices) were filmed, the latter while they executed their fastest possible stable diagonal stride on a level track, and the former during competition. A 15-member linked segment model was digitized, the coordinate data filtered at 4.5 Hz and body segment energy curves; mechanical work output and mechanical energy transfers were calculated using the method described by Pierrynowski, Winter, and Norman (1980). The elite skiers exhibited larger exchanges between potential and kinetic energy in all segments during swing phases and all but the upper arm segment during pushing phases. Step-wise discriminant function analysis showed significant differences in the swinging foot, pushing foot, and pushing shank. The differences appear to be largely attributable to the higher leg swings of the experts, who prolong the glide and enhance step length, probably at a relatively lower metabolic cost by exploiting gravity to augment muscular force by generating pendulum-like movements.
Monitoring Performance Using a Real-Time Biodynamic Feedback Device
Authors: Atha J. , Harris D. , West G. , Manley P.K.
Published: August 2016

A prototype swimming tachometer is described which consists of a waterproof box housing a battery-powered electronic system linked externally to an opto-electronic velocity transducer. The device is strapped to the hips, where it monitors water flow to produce continuous measurements of two critical variables of swimming performance, namely, velocity and acceleration. These measurements are converted in real time to auditory feedback signals to the subject via an ear plug. Permanent records may be taken simultaneously as an option using a switched external line.
Interfacing a CalComp 9100 Series Digitizer to an Apple IIe Microcomputer
Authors: Pizzimenti Marc
Published: August 2016

Some of the details relating to the hardware and software aspects of interfacing a CalComp 9100 series (model 91360) with an Apple IIe microcomputer system and switch settings for the serial interface card in the microcomputer are discussed. A flowchart and partial hard-copy listing of a BASIC program "DATA INPUT" are also provided to serve as a starting place for users with similar systems.
Effects of Shoe and Surface Characteristics on Lower Limb Injuries in Sports
Authors: Andréasson Gunnar , Peterson Lars
Published: August 2016

The dynamical behavior of sport shoes and surfaces has been measured and combined with a clinical study of injuries. The method used for the technical measurement has been the DIN Standard, and the clinical injury assessment has been obtained from several teams using different shoes and surfaces. The results point out that a dynamical spring constant can be used as a means of predicting potential athletic injuries. For the interaction between a shoe and surface the combined dynamical modulus may not exceed 3.2 MPa.
Biomechanical Aspects of Push-Off Techniques in Speed Skating the Curves
Authors: de Boer Ruud W. , Ettema Gertjan J.C. , van Gorkum Hans , de Groot Gert , Schenau Gerrit Jan van Ingen
Published: August 2016

Characteristics of stroke mechanics of elite and trained speed skaters were measured during the skating of curves. Film and video analysis from the 5000-meter races at the Dutch National Championships yielded biomechanical variables that were correlated to performance. There are fundamental differences in push-off mechanics between skating the straight parts and skating the curves. The left stroke shows a more powerful push-off in the curve, caused by a greater push off angle compared to the right leg. The high speed and power output of the better skaters is a result of a high amount of work per stroke, caused by a short and effective directed push-off. These results strongly support the previous finding that skaters of different performance levels can be distinguished by differences in amount of work per stroke and not by differences in stroke frequency.
Influence of Attached Masses on Impact Forces and Running Style in Heel-Toe Running
Authors: Bahlsen Alexander , Nigg Benno M.
Published: August 2016

Impact forces analysis in heel-toe running is often used to examine the reduction of impact forces for different running shoes and/or running techniques. Body mass is reported to be a dominant predictor of vertical impact force peaks. However, it is not evident whether this finding is only true for the real body mass or whether it is also true for additional masses attached to the body (e.g., running with additional weight or heavy shoes). The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of additional mass on vertical impact force peaks and running style. Nineteen subjects (9 males, 10 females) with a mean mass of 74.2 kg/56.2 kg (SD = 10.0 kg and 6.0 kg) volunteered to participate in this study. Additional masses were attached to the shoe (.05 and .1 kg), the tibia (.2, .4, .6 kg), and the hip (5.9 and 10.7 kg). Force plate measurements and high-speed film data were analyzed. In this study the vertical impact force peaks, Fzi, were not affected by additional masses, the vertical active force peaks, Fza, were only affected by additional masses greater than 6 kg, and the movement was only different in the knee angle at touchdown, ϵ0, for additional masses greater than .6 kg. The results of this study did not support findings reported earlier in the literature that body mass is a dominant predictor of external vertical impact force peaks.
Analysis of Lower Limb Muscle Function in Ergometer Rowing
Authors: Wilson J.-M. John , Robertson D. Gordon E. , Stothart J. Peter
Published: August 2016

In an effort to seek further understanding of lower limb muscle function in the rowing movement, an electromyographic analysis was undertaken of rowers rowing on a Gjessing ergometer. A strain gauged transducer was inserted in the ergometer linkage between handle and flywheel to detect pulling force. Electrodes were placed on the following lower limb muscles: gluteus maximus, biceps femoris, rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, gastrocnemius, and tibialis anterior. Linear envelope electromyograms from each muscle and the force signals were sampled synchronously at 50 Hz. The results indicated that all six muscles were active from catch to finish of the drive phase. Biceps femoris, gluteus maximus, gastrocnemius, and vastus lateralis all began their activity at or just prior to catch and reached maximal excitation near peak force of the stroke. Rectus femoris and tibialis anterior activity began prior to the catch and reached maximal excitation subsequent to peak force. The coactivation of the five leg muscles, of which four were biarticular, included potentially antagonistic actions that would cancel each other’s effects. Clearly, however, other explanations must be considered. Both gastrocnemius and biceps femoris have been shown to act as knee extensors and may do so in the case of the rowing action. Furthermore, rectus femoris may act with unchanging length as a knee extensor by functioning as a rigid link between the pelvis and tibia. In this manner, energy created by the hip extensors is transferred across the knee joint via the isometrically contracting rectus femoris muscle.
Biomechanical Model of the Press Handstand in Gymnastics
Authors: Prassas Spiros G.
Published: August 2016

A biomechanical model of the press handstand was developed to evaluate and predict the shoulder joint torque requirements as well as the motion of a gymnast’s center of mass (CM) from an initial to a final (handstand) position. Five press handstands executed by gymnasts of differing abilities were filmed and analyzed. The results were compared to the predicted parameters of simulated presses. It was found that execution of the skill with fewer fluctuations in trunk and lower extremities angular velocity—a characteristic of skilled performance—required smoother and at times larger shoulder joint torques. Reduction of the hip joint angle by only 5 or 10° did not substantially reduce the shoulder joint torque requirements. Regarding CM motion, it was found that during performance the CM continuously elevated and remained close to a vertical line passing through the center of the wrist joint. All gymnasts, however, were found to be leaning slightly backward during the first part of the movement and slightly forward during the later phases. Modifications in wrist joint angle required to maintain each gymnast’s CM precisely above the center of the wrist joint were investigated.
Mechanical Aspects of the Sprint Start in Olympic Speed Skating
Authors: de Koning Jos J. , de Groot Gert , Schenau Gerrit Jan van Ingen
Published: August 2016

Mechanical characteristics of the sprint start in speed skating were measured during the 1988 Winter Olympic Games. From three-dimensional film analysis of the first 4 seconds of the male and female 500-m races, biomechanical variables were determined. The first strokes during the start appeared to be performed by a running-like technique. At a forward velocity of approximately 4 m/sec, the skaters are forced to change this technique to the typical gliding technique as used during speed skating at steady speed. In explaining the time differences on the first 100 meters of the 500-m speed skating race, the effectiveness of the push-off appears to be more important than the observed high power output levels.
Three-Dimensional Bobsled Turning Dynamics
Authors: Hubbard Mont , Kallay Michael , Rowhani Payam
Published: August 2016

We have developed a mathematical model and computer simulation of three-dimensional bobsled turning. It is based on accurate descriptions of existing or hypothetical tracks and on dynamic equations of motion including gravitational, normal, lift, drag, ice friction, and steering forces. The three-dimensional track surface model uses cubic spline geometric modeling and approximation techniques. The position of the sled on the track is specified by the two variables α and β in the along-track and cross-track directions, differential equations for which govern the possible motions of the sled. The model can be used for studies involving (a) track design, (b) calculation of optimal driver control strategies, and (c) as the basis for a real-time bobsled simulator. It can provide detailed quantitative information (e.g., splits for individual turns) that is not available in runs at actual tracks. The model also allows for comparison of driver performance with the numerically computed optimum performance, and for safe experimentation with risky driving strategies.
A Multisegment Dynamic Model of Ski Jumping
Authors: Hubbard Mont , Hibbard Robin L. , Yeadon Maurice R. , Komor Andrzej
Published: August 2016

This paper presents a planar, four-segment, dynamic model for the flight mechanics of a ski jumper. The model consists of skis, legs, torso and head, and arms. Inputs include net joint torques that are used to vary the relative body configurations of the jumper during flight. The model also relies on aerodynamic data from previous wind tunnel tests that incorporate the effects of varying body configuration and orientation on lift, drag, and pitching moment. A symbolic manipulation program, “Macsyma,” is used to derive the equations of motion automatically. Experimental body segment orientation data during the flight phase are presented for three ski jumpers which show how jumpers of varying ability differ in flight and demonstrate the need for a more complex analytical model than that previously presented in the literature. Simulations are presented that qualitatively match the measured trajectory for a good jumper. The model can be used as a basis for the study of optimal jumper behavior in flight which maximizes jump distance.
Three-Dimensional Interactions in a Two-Segment Kinetic Chain. Part I: General Model
Authors: Feltner Michael E. , Dapena Jesús
Published: August 2016

The motion of a body segment is determined by joint torques and by the motions of the segments proximal or distal to it. This paper describes a three-dimensional model that was used to determine the effects of the shoulder and elbow joint torques and of the upper trunk and arm motions on the angular accelerations of the arm segments during baseball pitching. Equations were developed to fractionate the three-dimensional components of the angular acceleration vector of each segment into angular acceleration terms associated with the joint torques made on the segment, and into various “motion-dependent” angular acceleration terms associated with the kinematic variables of the arm segments. Analysis of the values of the various motion-dependent angular acceleration terms permitted the determination of their contributions to the motion of the segment. Although the model was developed to provide further understanding of the mechanics of the throwing arm during baseball pitching, it can be used to analyze any two-segment two-dimensional or three-dimensional motion.
Mechanics of Prolonged Downhill Running
Authors: Marshall Robert N. , Paterson David J. , Glendining Paul
Published: August 2016

Approximately 25 runners were filmed at the 24.9- and 41.0-km points in the 1987 Everest Marathon. Their finishing times ranged from 4:53:10 to 7:14:37. Leg length, step lengths, step frequencies, knee angles at impact, and ankle-to-hip angles at impact were determined for each runner who appeared in both films (N = 20). The slopes at the two filming sites were −21.8% and −26.8%, considerably steeper gradients than have previously been studied. When compared to data from other downhill running studies at −10% gradient, these athletes had slightly slower speeds, shorter step lengths, straighter legs on impact, and greater minimum knee angles during stance. The results suggest that the runners used a variety of techniques to minimize the effects of ground impact while still allowing for the competitive aspect of the race, considerable variation in footing and terrain, and personal safety.
Takeoff Mechanics of the Double Backward Somersault
Authors: Hwang Inseong , Seo Gukung , Liu Zhi Cheng
Published: August 2016

This study examined the biomechanical profiles of the takeoff phase of double backward somersaults in three flight positions: seven layout double backward somersaults (L), seven twisting double backward somersaults (TW), and seven tucked double backward somersaults (TDB). Selected kinematic variables and angular momenta were calculated in order to compare the differences resulting from different aerial maneuvers. The amount of total body angular momentum about the transverse axis through the gymnasts' center of mass progressively increased from TDB to TW to L. The gymnasts performing the skill in the layout position tried to minimize the angle of block in a direction opposite the intended motion by maximizing the angle of touchdown and takeoff. In so doing, the horizontal velocity center-of-mass curve of the L showed a slowly decreasing curve compared with those of the other two somersaults while the vertical velocity curve of the L increased more slowly than the other curves during the takeoff phase. In all cases the legs played the dominant role in contributing to total angular momentum during takeoff.
A Biomechanical Analysis of Amputee Athlete Gait
Authors: Smith Andrew W.
Published: August 2016

The aims of the present study were to quantify lower limb kinetics and kinematics during walking and slow jogging of below-knee amputee athletes and to demonstrate the usefulness of the additional information provided by kinetic analyses as compared to that of kinematic assessments alone. Kinematic and force platform data from three amputee subjects were collected while the subjects walked and jogged in the laboratory. Results indicated that neither prosthesis (SACH and an energy-storing carbon fiber or ESCF) emulated the kinetics or the kinematics of so-called normal gait during walking. While the knee joint on the prosthetic side clearly tended to be biased toward extension during stance, the knee flexors were dominant and acted concentrically during this phase of the gait cycle. An examination of prosthetic limb hip and knee joint kinetics at both cadences revealed the functional role played by the hamstrings early in stance. The results indicated that with increasing cadence, less variability, measured by coefficients of variation, was evident in the kinematic data while the opposite was true for the kinetics.
A Mathematical Model of Competitive Swimming in Pools with Currents
Authors: Hinrichs Richard N. , McLean Scott P.
Published: August 2016

Swimmers may be placed at a disadvantage when water in a pool is actively circulated during competition. This circulation may produce currents in specific lanes which add to a swimmer’s speed in one direction and subtract from it in the other direction. This article presents a mathematical model of swimming in a lane with a current. It predicts that even small currents can add significantly to a swimmer’s race time. The effects of the current will not equal out over an even number of lengths swum because the swimmer always loses more time swimming against the current than he or she gains from swimming with the current. Mathematical simulations of races of various distances show that the losses in time can range from 100ths of a second in a 100-m sprint to several seconds in the longer distances. Since circulating water may create currents only in specific lanes, some swimmers may be placed at a disadvantage compared to others. A simple solution to the problem of currents is suggested.
Design and Evaluation of a Multi-Degree-of-Freedom Foot/Pedal Interface for Cycling
Authors: Wootten Dennis , Hull Maury L.
Published: August 2016

Described is the design of a foot/pedal interface intended as a research tool in the study of overuse knee injuries in cycling. The interface enables the systematic variation of factors that may affect loads transmitted by the knee joint. It permits two degrees of freedom of movement, inversion/eversion and abduction/adduction rotations, either separately or in combination. The movement permitted by each degree of freedom can be either free or resisted by spring assemblies. Sample data were collected to demonstrate the function of the foot/pedal interface. With no spring resistance, the interface functioned as intended by allowing free movement of the foot. Significant interaction was seen between the two degrees of freedom, with more motion and a larger absolute mean occurring when both degrees of freedom were allowed simultaneously. This emphasizes the need for a multi-degree-of-freedom interface when undertaking a comprehensive study of the factors affecting loads transmitted by the knee.
Techniques Used by Elite Gymnasts in the 1992 Olympic Compulsory Dismount from the Horizontal Bar
Authors: Takei Yoshiaki , Nohara Hiroshi , Kamimura Mamoru
Published: August 2016

The purpose of this study was to identify the mechanical factors that are crucial to a successful double salto backward tucked dismount from thehorizontal bar. The subjects were 35 American and 43 Japanese gymnasts competing in their respective 1990 national gymnastics championships. A 16-mm camera, placed with its optical axis parallel to the horizontal bar and operating at 100 Hz, was used to record the performances of the subjects. Significant correlations indicated that a large vertical velocity at bar release, which ensures great height and long time of flight, is important. Successful performance is also likely when efforts are made to (a) achieve the tightest tuck position during the salto backward near the peak of flight, (b) extend the body rapidly and fully early in rotation before the vertical body position is reached well above the bar, (c) maintain the extended body position during the remainder of the flight to display body style for virtuosity bonus points, and (d) simultaneously prepare for a controlled landing on the mat.
Objective Biomechanical Determination of Tennis Racket Properties
Authors: Hatze Herbert
Published: August 2016

Several biodynamical properties of tennis rackets such as vibrational characteristics, direction control, and the coefficient of restitution depend critically on the constraining mode of the handle. The racket response to ball impact differs fundamentally for rigid mechanical clamping of the handle and for hand-held gripping. In order to test objectively the biodynamical characteristics of tennis rackets under standardized but biomechanically realistic conditions, the use of a mechano-electronic replica of the human hand/arm system, termed manusimulator, is suggested. Sample test results of the vibrational characteristics of a specific tennis racket and of the coefficients of restitution of several rackets provide proof of the reproducibility and reliability of the test results so obtained. The results were compared with those obtained using human test players. The latter subjective method yielded data with excessively large coefficients of variation around 84% and was found to be unsuitable for determining tennis racket properties objectively. It is concluded that the standardizable manusimulator testing procedure offers a valuable alternative to subjective testing methods for determining tennis racket parameters.
Hub Movement during the Swing of Elite and Novice Golfers
Authors: Sanders Ross H. , Owens Peter C.
Published: August 2016

Many golf coaches refer to a focal point or “hub” of a golf swing and encourage players to imagine the clubhead rotating about this point. The purpose of this study was to locate the hub of the swings of elite (handicaps 0–5) and novice golfers. Six novice and six elite players (all male) each performed 10 swings with the 3-wood provided. Motions of reflective markers attached to the vertex and chin of the subject and three points along the shaft of the club were recorded on videotape. The position of the hub at sampled instants during the swing was defined by the intersection of normals to the clubhead path. Among elite players the hub was not fixed and the pattern of hub movement was consistent. The radius of the hub to the clubhead reached a maximum near impact. Novice players tended to achieve maximum radius after impact and the hub patterns were inconsistent.
Interview With Julie Ward, Former Deputy Managing Editor, Sports, for USA Today
Authors: Hardin Marie
Published: August 2016

Julie Ward was deputy managing editor at USA Today for nearly 2 decades, from 1989 to 2007. She joined USA Today as a general-assignment reporter in 1984 and also was an assignment editor for the NBA, golf, tennis, motor sports, boxing, colleges, and high schools. USA Today is the top-circulation daily newspaper in the United States. Ward led the USA Today team that won the 2002 Associated Press Sports Editors award for a story that revealed the 302 members of Augusta National Golf Club, which had been embroiled in controversy because of its policy to exclude women from membership. In 2007, Ward also won the Mary Garber Pioneer Award from the Association for Women in Sports Media. In December, she accepted a severance offer (buyout) and retired from working at the paper. Before joining USA Today, she was a reporter for the St. Louis Globe-Democrat and the Belleville (IL) News-Democrat, where she covered women’s sports and was a columnist.
The Wiki Defense: Contesting the Status of Knowledge in the Floyd Landis Doping Case
Authors: Plymire Darcy C.
Published: August 2016

This theoretical essay applies active audience theory, convergence theory, and contemporary understandings of Web logs to an analysis of knowledge production in the antidoping movement. Using the Floyd Landis doping case as an example it examines how cycling fans and other interested parties used Internet sites such as wikis and blogs to mount a challenge to the hegemony of institutional knowledge produced by organizations such as the World Anti Doping Agency and Union Cycliste Internationale. The essay concludes that Landis’s so-called wiki defense—based as it was on popular challenges to received knowledge—was a successful contestation of normative procedures and institutional authority in the prosecution of doping allegations in international sport.
“You Are the Type of Person That Children Should Look up to as a Hero”: Parasocial Interaction on 38pitches.com
Authors: Sanderson Jimmy
Published: August 2016

This research explored people’s expression of parasocial interaction (PSI) on Boston Red Sox pitcher Curt Schilling’s blog, 38pitches.com. A thematic analysis using grounded theory (Glaser & Strauss, 1967) and constant comparative methodology of 1,337 postings on Schilling’s blog was conducted. Three parasocial aspects emerged from data analysis: identification, admonishment and advice giving, and criticism. The findings of the study provide support for previous research that suggests identification is a PSI component, and given the large presence of admonishment and criticism, the findings extend PSI theory by suggesting that PSI theory must account for and encompass negative relational behaviors. The results also indicate that people’s use of information and communication technologies is reconfiguring parasocial relationships as fans take an active role in soliciting and communicating with professional athletes, subsequently creating more opportunities for PSI to occur.
University of Kansas and Kansas Athletics, Inc., v. Larry Sinks et al. (collectively d/b/a/ Joe-College.com), 2008 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 23765 (D. Kan. 2008)
Authors: Grady John
Published: August 2016

The University of Kansas and its athletics department brought suit against Larry Sinks, a manufacturer and retailer of merchandise doing business as Joe-College.com. Joe-College.com sells merchandise that reference Kansas Athletics programs, including T-shirts with irreverent sayings, as well as references to drugs and alcohol. Plaintiffs allege that the defendant’s goods infringe the registered and unregistered trademarks of the University of Kansas, including its crimson and blue color scheme. The university asserted claims for trademark infringement, trademark dilution, and unfair competition. Approximately 140 T-shirt designs used by the defendant were at issue in the litigation. This case illustrates the expanding scope of protection afforded to trademarks in sport that are used to communicate and distinguish a particular team’s brand. The case also explores the viability of the First Amendment as a defense to trademark infringement for retailers who produce merchandise that allows sports fans to express their message.
Use of an Organizational Weblog in Relationship Building: The Case of a Major League Baseball Team
Authors: Dittmore Stephen W. , Stoldt G. Clayton , Greenwell T. Christopher
Published: August 2016

This case study explores the use a Major League Baseball team’s organizational weblog. Organizational weblogs are forums for the 2-way exchange of information and commentary between an organization and its publics. Most sport organizations, however, have yet to embrace the weblog as a form of organizational communication. Recent research suggests a greater need to understand how sport organizations might use weblogs to outreach to target audiences from a communications perspective. This study assesses whether readers perceive an organization’s official weblog to be an effective form of 2-way communication and profiles the readers of an organizational weblog based on demographics, consumption patterns, and points of attachment. Results showed that readers perceived the organizational weblog to be highly conversational and effective at communicating organizational commitment. In addition, readers were voracious media consumers of the team’s games, repeat ticket customers, and highly identified, both with the sport and with the team.
Sport Communication Education in China: An Analysis of the Growth and Status of Academic Study Related to Sport Media
Authors: Xiao Huan Yu , Eagleman Andrea N.
Published: August 2016

This commentary analyzes the growth and current status of the education, facilities, faculty, and teaching quality associated with sport communication education in China. It presents findings from a survey of Chinese sport communication students and their perceptions of the quality of education at universities offering such programs, as well as survey results from Chinese sport media professionals and their assessments of the students graduating from these programs. The results of these surveys signify problematic areas in sport communication education, such as an imbalance between the number of students in these programs and the amount of equipment and resources available, the shortage of qualified teachers, and the lack of applied sport communication opportunities available to the students. The article also details the relationship between supply and demand in academia. The commentary closes with proposed strategic solutions for the reformation and development of the academic environment related to sport communication in China.
The ESPN Effect: How Slam Dunks Affect Individualism and Optimism for Athletic Success
Authors: Kingsbury John H. , Tauer John M.
Published: August 2016

The authors examined the effects of individualistic media images on children’s levels of optimism toward their future basketball careers. Three hundred sixty-five participants watched highlights featuring either Black or White players performing an easy (passing) or difficult skill (slam dunking). Results indicated that participants placed a higher value on slam dunks when they watched them in a highlight tape. In addition, we found the same interaction on 3 dependent variables, such that those who viewed a same-race model performing passes felt more optimistic about playing both college and professional basketball and higher levels of positive arousal. Given Western society’s individualistic culture, the authors suggest that increased exposure to media images that promote unselfishness and teamwork would be beneficial for young athletes.
Arthur Ashe, Privacy, and the Media: An Analysis of Newspaper Journalists’ Coverage of Ashe’s AIDS Announcement
Authors: Laucella Pamela C.
Published: August 2016

Arthur Ashe made history as the first Black man to win a Grand Slam title in professional tennis. More important than Ashe’s 33 singles titles, however, was his commitment to education and social justice. As only the second prominent professional athlete to publicly admit having HIV (after professional basketball player “Magic” Johnson), Ashe’s indefatigable strength of spirit endured despite the forced disclosure. This research investigates how newspaper journalists portrayed Ashe, USA Today, and AIDS. The sample of 76 articles came from newspapers from 6 major markets nationwide and 1 regional market. The study reveals the complexities of ethical decision making for journalists in their coverage of privacy and health issues. Although there was ambivalence in journalists’ coverage of USA Today and its pursuit of Ashe, journalists collectively praised his character and commitment to humanity. Journalists framed Ashe as a victim, pioneer, role model, and hero by stressing his altruism, activism, and spirit.
Generation Y’s Perceptions of Women’s Sport in the Media
Authors: Lebel Katie , Danylchuk Karen
Published: August 2016

The purpose of this study was to gain insight into Generation Y’s perceptions of women’s sport in the media. Twenty-four participants were recruited and organized into 4 gender-specific focus groups. Participants identified televised sport as a primary and preferred method of sport consumption. Women’s sports were linked with inaccessibility and perceived as inferior to men’s sport in terms of athletic skill and general atmosphere. An underrepresentation of women’s sport in the media was held responsible for the limited awareness surrounding women’s sport. Societal expectations instilled during early socialization processes and limited female opportunity in sport also emerged as critical barriers. Most participants regarded the inequality in women’s sport with indifference and were satisfied as sport enthusiasts with the opportunities for consumption available in men’s sport. This conservative approach to women’s sport suggests that Generation Y’s perceptions wield noteworthy influence on their sport consumption behaviors.
SportsCentral as Winner or Loser? Centralcasting as Strategy for Efficient Local Sportscast Production
Authors: Mills Jon Michael , Daniels George L.
Published: August 2016

The amount of time dedicated to sports coverage in local news has decreased substantially in recent years. In fact, some networks have eliminated traditional sports segments or outsourced them to national organizations. The now defunct Sinclair Broadcast Group’s SportsCentral represented a cost-efficient way to produce local sports segments in multiple media markets, and this study sought to understand how SportsCentral broadcasts compared with traditional broadcasts in 3 markets. An analysis of SportsCentral segments over a 17-month period in the Birmingham, AL; Oklahoma City; and Tampa–St. Petersburg markets showed that traditional sportscasts provided more local sports coverage than shows airing SportsCentral. While relying more heavily on satellite-generated content, sportscasts using SportsCentral had a wider variety of stories and aired more sports feature stories and franchises than the traditional sportscast. However, local newscasts found ways to integrate sports coverage into the news broadcast to cover late-breaking or important local stories.