bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of the state of social and labor sphere of rural areas in the Ural Federal District
Authors: Kalitskaya Victoria , Pustuev Andrey , Rykalina Olga , Perminova Irina , Mustafina Olga
Published: June 2020

The article presents the author’s calculations of the labor sphere state of rural areas of the Ural Federal District (Russia). It is substantiated that labor (human) capital is the most important element of ensuring the functioning of the entire agrarian sphere. The estimation of labor productivity in the agricultural sector, the rate of wage growth, as well as relative social and labor indicators of the agricultural direction to the general economic is conducted. The authors consider the ratio of agrolabor productivity growth and decrease in the number of workers in this sphere, which is associated with a number of factors, resulting in the construction of a system of sociolabor factors interaction contributing to the development of rural areas, based on analytical data
Red luminescence and UV light generation of europium doped zinc oxide thin films for optoelectronic applications
Authors: El Jouad Mohamed , Bouabdalli El Mehdi , Touhtouh Samira , Addou Mohammed , Ollier Nadège , Sahraoui Bouchta
Published: June 2020

In the present work, the Europium doped Zinc Oxide (ZnO: Eu) thin films were elaborated using spray pyrolysis technique. We are interested in investigating the structural properties, photoluminescence (PL) and third harmonic generation (THG) of the elaborated films. The structural properties of as-prepared thin films were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD). It confirms that all deposited thin films of Europium doped Zinc Oxide are crystallized in the hexagonal wurtzite structure. Both undoped and doped europium thin films show strong preferred c-axis orientation. Photoluminescence (PL) emission from Europium doped Zinc Oxide thin films, under excitation by 266 nm, shows characteristic transitions of Europium (5D0 → 7F0, 5D0 → 7F1, 5D0 → 7F2, etc.). It reveals the good incorporation of Eu3+ ions in the ZnO host. Additionally, the 5D0 → 7F2 is the most intense transition usually observed for Eu3+ embedded in materials of Zinc Oxide lattice. The dependence of third-order nonlinear susceptibility on doping rate was evaluated. The highest nonlinear susceptibility χ
3 is obtained for the 5% Europium doped ZnO sample.
Impact of medium-scale traveling ionospheric disturbances on network real-time kinematic services: CATNET study case
Authors: Timoté Cristhian Camilo , Juan José Miguel , Sanz Jaume , González-Casado Guillermo , Rovira-García Adrià , Escudero Miquel
Published: June 2020

Medium-scale traveling ionospheric disturbances (MSTIDs) are fluctuations in the plasma density that propagate through the upper layer of the atmosphere at velocities of approximately 100 m/s and periods reaching some tens of minutes. Due to their wavelengths, MSTIDs can degrade the performance of differential positioning techniques, such as real-time kinematics (RTK) or network-RTK (NRTK). This paper defines a novel methodology as a tool for relating the errors in NRTK positioning based on an MSTIDs indicator using the second difference in time of the slant total electron content (STEC). The proposed methodology performs integer ambiguity resolution (IAR) on the undifferenced measurements instead of using double-differenced carrier-phase measurements, as it is usual in RTK and NRTK. Statistical tests are applied to evaluate the degradation in the position errors caused by the impacts of MSTIDs on RTK and NRTK positioning over a data set spanning one year gathered from the CATNET network; a dual-frequency network of fixed permanent GNSS receivers located at the mid-latitudes of northeastern Spain. With the development of the proposed methodology for measuring the position degradation, another results of the present research are the establishment of thresholds for the proposed MSTIDs index, which can be used to monitor the positioning solution and to warn users when the measurements are affected by MSTIDs events, relating the position error to MSTIDs that affect not only the user receivers but also of the reference receivers within the network.
Effect of grapeseed procyanidins on small intestinal mucosa morphology and small intestinal development in weaned piglets
Authors: Yan Huishi , Gao Wenwei , Li Qinghong , Li Hongquan , Hao Ruirong
Published: June 2020

Context
Grapeseed procyanidins (GSP) are widely recognised to have potential biological properties, and dietary supplementation with GSP could reduce diarrhoea incidence in weaned piglets.

Aims
This trial was conducted to investigate the effect of GSP on small intestinal mucosa morphology and small intestinal development in weaned piglets.

Methods
Seventy-two weaned piglets were randomly allocated into four dietary groups with three replicate pens per group and six piglets per pen. Each group received one of the following diets: a basal maize–soybean meal diet; or basal diet supplemented with 50, 100 or 150 mg GSP/kg. Small intestinal mucosa morphology and the expression of genes involved in improving small intestinal development were determined.

Key results
Morphological observations obtained by optical microscopy showed that the villus height of the duodenum and ileum increased in all groups receiving GSP, significantly (P < 0.05) so in the group receiving 100 mg GSP/kg compared with the control group. Crypt depth of the duodenum and ileum in the groups receiving 100 and 150 mg GSP/kg decreased compared with the control group. Similarly, the crypt depth of the jejunum in the group receiving 100 mg GSP/kg was significantly (P < 0.05) lowered. Moreover, the villus height/crypt depth ratio of each small intestinal segment in the group receiving 100 mg GSP/kg increased significantly (P < 0.01). Morphological observations obtained by scanning electron microscopy indicated that dietary supplementation with GSP was favourable for growth of small intestinal villi. Specifically, the villi of the small intestine in the group receiving 100 mg GSP/kg were most closely aligned, most uniform in size and clearest in structure. Furthermore, dietary supplementation with GSP increased the expression of genes encoding epidermal growth factor receptor, insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and IGF-1 receptor in the duodenum, the group receiving 100 mg GSP/kg showing a significant (P < 0.05) increase.

Conclusions
Dietary supplementation with GSP could improve small intestinal mucosa morphology and promote small intestinal development. Dietary supplementation of 100 mg GSP/kg could be recommended for weaned piglets.

Implications
Dietary supplementation with GSP generated a beneficial role in small intestinal health in weaned piglets.
Oro-anal sexual practice among female sex workers in Melbourne: implication for extragenital gonorrhoea and chlamydia transmission
Authors: Chow Eric P. F. , Fairley Christopher K.
Published: June 2020

Background
The prevalence of sexually transmissible infections has been low among female sex workers (FSWs) in Melbourne, Australia. However, the prevalence of gonorrhoea and chlamydia, especially at extragenital sites, has increased since the mid-2010s. Oro-anal sex (i.e. rimming) has been identified as a risk factor for extragenital gonorrhoea and chlamydia. However, rimming has rarely been studied among the FSW population. The aim of this study was to examine the proportion of FSWs who had had rimming with their male clients. Methods: A cross-sectional survey among FSWs attending the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre in Australia in March 2018 was conducted. All females aged ≥18 years and self-reported as a sex worker were eligible. The survey included questions related to the number of insertive and receptive rimming partners with their male clients in an average working week. Results: Forty-five FSWs completed the survey; five (11.1%; 95% CI: 3.7–24.1%) FSWs had had insertive rimming and 19 (42.2%; 95% CI: 27.7–57.8%) had had receptive rimming with their male clients in an average working week. The median number of insertive rimming partners was two (interquartile range (IQR) 1–5) and the median number of receptive rimming partners was one (IQR 1–3). Conclusion: Insertive rimming is more commonly practiced than receptive rimming among FSWs with their male clients in an average working week.
Acoustic trapping of microbubbles in complex environments and controlled payload release
Authors: Baresch Diego , Garbin Valeria
Published: June 2020

Significance

Remote positioning and activation of drug-loaded microparticles in vivo are a central pursuit of nanomedicine. Optical, magnetic, and acoustic fields have been used to position and sort microparticles in vitro, but the translation in vivo remains challenging. Because sound can be transmitted centimeters deep into opaque media, acoustical tweezers are considered an ideal candidate for in vivo contactless manipulation. Here we use a single-beam acoustical trap to manipulate microbubbles in three dimensions through materials that mimic biological tissues. We establish the trapping mechanism, which is strikingly different from conventional acoustic trapping of bubbles. We also demonstrate controlled release from nanoparticle-loaded microbubbles with an independent acoustic trigger. We thus lay the foundations for biomedical applications of single-beam acoustical tweezers.
Ambivalence, Avoidance, and Appeal: Alliterative Aspects of Anglo Anthroponyms
Authors: Bush Stephen J.
Published: June 2020

In several countries, one of the most pronounced trends in contemporary baby naming is selecting a comparatively uncommon name. Nevertheless, although a well-documented phenomenon, studies of uncommon name use are often limited to forenames. This study analyses approximately 22 million full names from England and 1 million from Wales, given between 1838 and 2014. It addresses the hypothesis that, consistent with the contemporary desire to choose an uncommon name, alliterative names – uncommon by definition – would become increasingly popular. More broadly, this study charts the long-term trends in alliterative naming over time. In both England and Wales, this pattern is consistent with a random expectation for much of the 19th century but declines significantly throughout the 20th century to its lowest use in the 1970s. This trend reverses towards the end of the 20th century, with alliterative naming becoming more common in contemporary records. These three aspects of alliterative name use are thematically referred to as ‘ambivalence’, ‘avoidance’ and ‘appeal’; and may reflect changing attitudes towards alliterative naming. The relatively renewed appeal of alliterative names towards the end of the 20th century complements previous research on the preponderance of uncommon names and the contemporary ‘need for uniqueness’ in naming.
Design with nature and eco-city design
Authors: Wu Yegang , Swain Robert E. , Jiang Nan , Qiao Mengying , Wang Haihua , Bai Jialin , Zhou Xi , Sun Xuefeng , Xu Jing , Xu Meng , Hu Chen , Xing Yimin , Wu Jenny Z.
Published: June 2020

Designing with Nature is an approach linking design and ecology, which focuses on living with nature, caring for nature, and aiming for a sustainable society. China has made eco-city development, eco-restoration, and eco-civilization its legislative priority and its national strategy, investing a US$618 billion in a 5-year period from 2011–2015 that could reach as high as US$1,124 billion dollars in the period of 2016–2020. “Designing with nature” also means that we must, as we are dealing with resources, consider and understand all the impacting factors and ecosystem capacities. China’s biggest challenge has been to restore water quality, aquatic ecosystems, and landscape patterns. Alongside its natural resources and eco-city development, China possesses a solar energy capacity higher than that of any other country in the world, reaching 174 gigawatts by 2018. Solar power is now cheaper than fossil fuels in hundreds of Chinese cities. In this review, we affirm that the nature-driven design put forth by McHarg’s
Design with Nature
has withstood the test of time, and we aim to renew interest in McHarg’s ideas by arguing for a design of Chinese cities that is, in keeping with
Design with Nature
, future-oriented, nature-oriented, and sustainability-oriented.
The polities of the Caucasus and the regional powers in the medieval and early modern period
Authors: Imranli-Lowe Kamala
Published: June 2020

This extended article presents an outline of the medieval and early modern history of the Caucasus based on a comparative analysis of a variety of local and international academic and other sources. It examines various local polities and their relationship with more powerful neighbours and other states, whose vassals or spheres of influence they were in or parts of. The article aims to elucidate the complexities of the Caucasus’ history which continue to affect political, societal and cultural trajectories of its ethnically and religiously diverse peoples.
Effect of PTFE on characteristics, corrosion, and tribological behavior of Zn–Ni electrodeposits
Authors: Tafreshi Mahshid , Allahkaram Saeid Reza , Mahdavi Soheil
Published: June 2020

Zn–Ni and Zn–Ni/PTFE coatings were produced by the electrodeposition technique. The effect of PTFE particles concentration on co-deposition of these particles was investigated. Morphology of Zn–Ni and Zn–Ni/PTFE coatings along with their corrosion and tribological behavior were studied. The results showed that maximum incorporation of PTFE particles was obtained in the presence of 30 g l−1 of these particles in the bath. Clusters of cauliflower-like morphology of Zn–Ni film became coarser by the incorporation of PTFE particles. Potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy results revealed that Zn-14Ni film had the best corrosion resistance between all the samples. The corrosion resistance of the alloy film was decreased by the incorporation of PTFE particles. However, Zn–Ni/PTFE film had higher corrosion resistance than the steel substrate. According to hardness and wear results, while Zn-14Ni film had the highest hardness between all the samples, Zn–Ni/PTFE film had the lowest volume loss and friction coefficient.
Highly sensitive silicon nitride biomedical sensor using plasmonic grating and ZnO layer
Authors: Elrashidi Ali
Published: June 2020

A biomedical sensor that sense concentration of glycerol in a deionized water with a high sensitivity is introduced in this work. A silicon nitride layer is added to the grated substrate, glass, then a plasmonic layer has been used before adding a zinc oxide layer on the top of the plasmonic gratings. The dimensions of all layers have been optimized to obtain the maximum refractive index sensitivity. Finite difference time domain method is used to calculate a transmitted signal from the proposed structure with and without analyte material. Figure of merit, quality factor and full width half maximum are also calculated at different duty cycle. The best performance of the senor has been obtained at duty cycle 35%, figure of merit 57.6, quality factor 57.3 and linewidth 14 nm. The maximum refractive index sensitivity is 806 nm/RIU which calculated at the same duty cycle. Detecting the glycerol concentration in deionized water is simulated at the maximum sensitivity and measured at different incident light angle. Finally, electric and magnetic fields and optical power, distributed along the structure are illustrated and discussed.
Effects of corundum-structured seeds on the low-temperature growth and hardness of the alumina-based films
Authors: Cheng Yitian , Chu Chenglin , Zhou Peng
Published: June 2020

The corundum-structured seeds have been introduced into alumina films using Al + α-Al2O3 composite and Al100−xCrx (x = 10, 20, 30) alloy as targets by reactive magnetron sputtering. The effects of the seeds on the elemental composition, phase composition, structure characteristic, surface morphology and nano-hardness of the alumina-based films have been investigated. The Al target has also been sputtered to prepare the alumina film as reference. The film is composed of single-phase α-Al2O3 by sputtering the Al + α-Al2O3 composite target at 550 °C, while the solid solution α-type (Al0.7Cr0.3)2O3 was detected in the film prepared with the Al70Cr30 target at the same temperature. The nano-hardness of the pure α-Al2O3 film and the α-(Al0.7Cr0.3)2O3 film were measured as ∼23.5 GPa and ∼28.5 GPa, respectively, which are much higher than that of the film deposited from Al target (∼16.3 GPa).
Invited Commentary: Rethinking Cervical Cancer Elimination in Terms of Lifetime Risk Rather Than Arbitrarily Defined Age-Standardized Incidence Rates
Authors: Malagón Talía , Franco Eduardo L
Published: June 2020

In their accompanying article, Vänskä et al. (Am J Epidemiol. 2021;190(4):506–514) provide us with cohort lifetime risks of cervical cancer attributable to different types of human papillomavirus in Sweden. We argue that a standardized lifetime risk such as those calculated by Vänskä et al. might be a more appropriate public health target for cervical cancer elimination than age-standardized incidence rates. Age standardization to an arbitrary standard age distribution implies an implicit value choice regarding the weight of different age groups for which we find little moral justification. Conversely, a standardized lifetime risk uses standard life expectancy as a weight, corresponding to the likelihood that cervical cancer would impact a woman and prevent her from pursuing opportunities within a standard life span. Based on the data from Vänskä et al., a standardized lifetime risk of 129–250 cervical cancers per 100,000 women born could be an aspirational alternative public health target for cervical cancer elimination as a public health problem, complementary to the World Health Organization’s arbitrary draft target of 4 cervical cancers per 100,000 age-standardized woman-years.
Genome-wide genotyping elucidates the geographical diversification and dispersal of the polyploid and clonally propagated yam (Dioscorea alata)
Authors: Sharif Bilal Muhammad , Burgarella Concetta , Cormier Fabien , Mournet Pierre , Causse Sandrine , Van Kien Nguyen , Kaoh Juliane , Rajaonah Mamy Tiana , Lakshan Senanayake Ravinda , Waki Jeffrey , Bhattacharjee Ranjana , Badara Gueye , Pachakkil Babil , Arnau Gemma , Chaïr Hana
Published: June 2020

Background and Aims

Inferring the diffusion history of many human-dispersed species is still not straightforward due to unresolved past human migrations. The centre of diversification and routes of migration of the autopolyploid and clonally propagated greater yam, Dioscorea alata, one of the oldest edible tubers, remain unclear. Here, we address yam demographic and dispersal history using a worldwide sample.

Methods

We characterized genome-wide patterns of genetic variation using genotyping by sequencing 643 greater yam accessions spanning four continents. First, we disentangled the polyploid and clonal components of yam diversity using allele frequency distribution and identity by descent approaches. We then addressed yam geographical origin and diffusion history with a model-based coalescent inferential approach.

Key Results

Diploid genotypes were more frequent than triploids and tetraploids worldwide. Genetic diversity was generally low and clonality appeared to be a main factor of diversification. The most likely evolutionary scenario supported an early divergence of mainland Southeast Asian and Pacific gene pools with continuous migration between them. The genetic make-up of triploids and tetraploids suggests that they have originated from these two regions before westward yam migration. The Indian Peninsula gene pool gave origin to the African gene pool, which was later introduced to the Caribbean region.

Conclusions

Our results are congruent with the hypothesis of independent domestication origins of the two main Asian and Pacific gene pools. The low genetic diversity and high clonality observed suggest a strong domestication bottleneck followed by thousands of years of widespread vegetative propagation and polyploidization. Both processes reduced the extent of diversity available for breeding, and this is likely to threaten future adaptation.
A-04 One Size Fits None: Neurobiologic-Specific Modifications For The Assessment, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Sport-Related Concussion
Authors: Beebe K E , Reynolds E
Published: June 2020

Objective

The primary objective of this review paper is to introduce the underlying neurobiology of concussion symptoms, including relevant neuroanatomy, and to discuss these findings relative to the traditional homogenous model and a newer clinical profile model for sport-related concussion (SRC) assessment, conceptualization, and treatment.

Method

Empirical studies, meta-analyses, and consensus statements relevant to the assessment, conceptualization, and treatment of SRC were identified via systematic, but informal, procedures. This literature review focused on papers discussing the neuroanatomy and neurobiology of concussion symptoms and sequelae, as well as the exploration of new clinical treatment models for SRC.

Results

Exploration of the literature further supports the use of a clinical profiles-based SRC assessment and treatment protocol. Comparisons of traditional and new protocols show that a traditional assessment, conceptualization, and treatment model of SRC as a homogenous injury inadequately captures the individual injury experience and recovery trajectory.

Conclusions

This review confirms existing literature that the clinical profiles-based model best addresses the heterogeneous nature of sport-related concussion using a neurobiological and neuroanatomical approach to understanding SRC. Utilizing this model, clinicians can provide an individualized assessment, conceptualization, and treatment plan for SRC, leading to an improved clinical experience for athletes and better clinical outcomes.
A-09 Time to Unrestricted Participation Following Sport-Related Concussion in High School Athletes
Authors: Covassin T , Bretzin A , Beidler E , Wallace J
Published: June 2020

Objective

To measure time-to-unrestricted participation in high school athletes following a sport-related concussion (SRC) diagnosis.

Method

This was a descriptive epidemiological study using the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) online Head Injury Reporting System (HIRS). This study included 10,411 (65.9%) male and 5,412 (34.1%) female SRC cases that occurred in 20 sports with greater than 30 SRC cases during the 2015–2016 to 2018–2019 academic years. The HIRS includes dates for SRC injury events and medical clearance for unrestricted return-to-participation for each case; dates were used to calculate recovery time. Kaplan-Meier time-to-event analysis identified crude proportions of athletes that had not obtained medical clearance in weekly increments (e.g., 7 days, 14 days, 21 days, 28 days, 35 days) across sports.

Results

The median time-to-unrestricted participation was 11 days. Overall, 71.8% of SRC cases took longer than 7 days to return, 29.6% of SRC cases took longer than 14 days, 13.1% of cases took longer than 21 days to return, and 6.5% took longer than 28 days to return to their respective sports. Results by sport show that over 25% of gymnasts took longer than 28 days to return-to-unrestricted participation, followed by competitive cheerleaders (15.5%), wrestlers (12.1%), and male divers (12.0%).

Conclusions

Almost one in three high school athletes with SRC took longer than 14 days to return-to-unrestricted participation. These results serve as proportional time estimates for return-to-unrestricted participation across a sample of 20 high school sports; and provide rationale to further evaluate recovery patterns in individual sport groups.
A-12 Differential Effects of Symptom Clusters at Baseline on Cognitive Performance
Authors: Datoc A , Issac L , Bennett R , Lashley L
Published: June 2020

Objective

The purpose of this study was to observe the effects of self-reported affective, sleep, and vestibular-somatic symptomatology on cognitive performance at baseline as measured by ImPACT.

Method

Participants were selected from a de-identified archival database of high school athletes aged 13–18. Symptom clusters included affective (N = 435, 61.7% female, Mage = 15.46), sleep (N = 435, 53.8% female, Mage = 15.49), and vestibular-somatic (N = 435, 52.2% male, Mage = 15.31). Three One-Way ANOVAs compared baseline composite scores between athletes who reported varying levels of symptomatology within each symptom cluster. Athletes were divided into groups based on their reported symptoms: None (n = 145), Mild (n = 145), and Moderate/Severe (n = 145). Significance was found at p = 0.01.

Results

No significant relationship between self-reported affective or sleep symptomatology and cognitive performance was observed. A significant relationship was shown between self-reported vestibular-somatic symptomatology regarding the Visual-Motor composite [F (2,432) = 5.925, p = .003]. Bonferroni pairwise comparisons revealed athletes with no reported vestibular-somatic symptoms performed significantly better on Visual-Motor tasks than those with Mild and Moderate/Severe symptoms.

Conclusions

These results may assist in the understanding of the influence of symptoms reported by athletes’ post-concussion. While those with varying levels of vestibular-somatic symptomatology were found to have significantly different performance on Visual-Motor tasks, this cluster of symptoms was not found to impact other domains of cognitive functioning. The influence of symptoms on cognitive performance likely varies between individual athletes, which can have implications on return-to-play decisions. This highlights the critical need for an individualized approach to be utilized when evaluating athletes post-concussion considering the current literature to date.
A-20 Do Children With LD and/or ADHD Differ at Baseline on a Pediatric Measure Used to Assess Concussion?
Authors: Friedman S , Moser R S , Schatz P
Published: June 2020

Objective

To examine differences at baseline between children with ADHD and/or LD vs. children with neither ADHD/LD on 1) neurocognitive scores and 2) child- and parent-reported concussion symptoms.

Method

Retrospective data was obtained for 1856 children ages 5–11 who were assessed at baseline using ImPACT Pediatric. Groups were determined based on parent-reported diagnosis of their child at baseline (ADHD and/or LD vs. neither ADHD/LD), and groups were compared on the four factor scores: Sequential Memory, Word Memory, Visual Memory, and Rapid Processing and on child- and parent-reported concussion symptoms using a series of ANOVAs.

Results

ANOVAs revealed that children with ADHD and/or LD performed significantly worse than children without ADHD/LD on Sequential Memory (F(1,1845) = 69.86, p < .001)) and Word Memory (F(1,1853) = 10.36, p = .001)). In contrast, children with ADHD and/or LD performed significantly better on the neurocognitive measures of Visual Memory [(F(1,1845) = 4.94, p = .026)] and Rapid Processing [(F(1,1853) = 20.35, p < .001). Symptom reporting was significantly greater in the ADHD and/or LD group for both child (F(1,1853) = 30.21, p < .001) and parent (F(1,1853) = 34.64, p < .001) reported symptoms.

Conclusions

The current study demonstrated differences at baseline in children on neurocognitive performance and concussion symptom reporting based on diagnostic group. Analysis of symptom reporting suggested that children with pre-existing diagnoses of ADHD and/or LD and their parents may report concussion-like symptoms at baseline, prior to ever experiencing a concussion. This finding has clinical implications for interpretation of post-concussion symptoms without a baseline comparison in children with pre-existing diagnoses such as ADHD and/or LD.
A-21 Relationship of the Vestibular-Ocular Reflex and Computerized Neurocognitive Testing Composite Scores
Authors: Hattrup N , Pardini J
Published: June 2020

Objective

The purpose of this study was to understand if the vestibular-ocular reflex is related to scores from a computerized neurocognitive exam.

Method

Data was obtained via IRB-approved retrospective chart review. 109 youth athletes (median age 13; 73.3% male) participated in a pre-season baseline assessment consisting of the gaze stabilization test (GST; a measure of vestibular-ocular reflex function) and the ImPACT computerized neurocognitive test (CNT). ImPACT composite scores and GST velocities in the leftward and rightward directions were evaluated. A spearman correlation was utilized to determine the relationship between variables (GST and CNT).

Results

No significant relationship existed between rightward and leftward velocities and any ImPACT composite (highest value; r = 0.20, p > 0.05 for Right GST and Impulse Control).

Conclusions

There was no relationship between a measure of the vestibular-ocular reflex and CNT. Thus, the tests measure two distinct abilities that can be affected by sport-related concussion. Results indicate the importance of understanding pre- and post-injury function for both cognitive and vision function to guide clinical decision making.
A-24 Influence of Biopsychosocial Factors on First-Appointment Presentation After Sport Related Concussion (SRC)
Authors: Jennings S , Blaney N , Elbin R J , Womble M N , Collins M W , Kontos A P
Published: June 2020

Objective

To examine the influence of biopsychosocial factors on clinical outcomes and recovery time following SRC

Method

59 athletes with SRC (51% male) aged 14.42, SD= 1.65 years from two concussion specialty clinics between May 2019 and January 2020. Patients completed the Behavioral Regulation Assessment for Concussion (BRAC) inventory measuring sleep, diet, hydration, physical activity and stress; on a 4-point Likert scale, ImPACT, and PCSS. Analyses included one-way ANOVAs with Tukey’s post-hoc test and chi-square analyses.

Results

Verbal memory scores were higher F(3,55)= 2.85, p<.05 in participants reporting 8-10hrs of sleep “most of the time” (M= 85.12, SD = 10.58) vs. “some of the time “ (M= 75.65, SD= 11.91). Verbal memory differed when engaged in stress regulation F(4,54)= 2.65, p<.05; “MOT” (M=81.38, SD= 10.95); “SOT” (M=82.33, SD= 12.64) and “never” (M= 84.05, SD= 13.07). PCSS sleep factor scores increased when individuals obtained 8-10hrs of sleep “MOT” (M=.30, SD=.423) “SOT” (M= 1.40, SD= 1.54) and “seldom/rarely” (M= 1.95, SD= 1.58). PCSS somatic scores were associated with decreased sleep X2(1, N=57) = 37.68; p= .001, and hydration X2(1, N=57) = 60.70 p< .001. Sleep and recovery time X2(1, N=55) = 120.82 p= .028.

Conclusions

Findings suggest that biopsychosocial factors including sleep, stress, and hydration are associated with symptoms, cognitive function, and recovery time following SRC and should be monitored by clinicians.
A-28 Updated Baselines Show Improvement, Even When Athletes Sustain A Concussion Between Assessments
Authors: O'Connor S , Dean T , Schatz P
Published: June 2020

Objective

To explore change across repeated baseline assessments using raw scores and percentile scores, for athletes sustaining and not sustaining a concussion between baselines.

Method

Athletes (12–23 years) completed two valid, baseline neurocognitive test sessions using ImPACT. Participants were divided into independent groups based on having sustained a concussion between annual baselines (CONCUSSION; N = 269) or no concussion (NO CONCUSSION; N = 270) between baselines. Raw change scores were calculated between the first and follow-up baseline for both groups by subtracting the first baseline score from the updated baseline score on the four ImPACT composite scores. Age- and gender-based percentile scores were then applied for all participants, and percentile change scores were calculated in the same manner. Raw change scores and percentile change scores between groups were compared using 4 ANOVAs with a Bonferroni-corrected p-value of (p < .0125).

Results

Using raw scores ANOVAs revealed that athletes in the CONCUSSION group showed significantly greater improvement on follow-up testing than athletes in the NO CONCUSSION group on Verbal Memory (p < .001) and Visual Motor Speed (p = .001), but not on Visual Memory (p = .41) and Reaction Time (p = .04). Using percentile ranks, ANOVAs revealed significantly greater improvement in CONCUSSION group on Verbal Memory (p < .001), but not on Visual Memory (p = .34), Visual Motor Speed (p = .03), or Reaction Time (p = .014).

Conclusions

Athletes sustaining a concussion between annual baseline assessments show increases on Verbal Memory and Visual Motor Speed follow-up testing when using raw composite scores, but only on Verbal Memory when using age- and gender-based percentile ranks.
A-31 Association Between Cognitive Activity and Recovery Outcomes in College Students Following Concussion
Authors: Petit K M , Zynda A J , Anderson M , Tomczyk C P , Covassin T
Published: June 2020

Objective

To evaluate the relationship between self-reported cognitive activity and recovery outcomes (symptom reporting, recovery time) in college students following concussion.

Method

Cognitive activity was defined as self-reported minutes spent in class and studying during the first 5 days following concussion. Self-reported symptoms were reported at day 5 post-injury using the Post-Concussion Symptom Scale (PCSS). The PCSS evaluates 22 symptoms on a 7-point Likert Scale from 0 (none) to 6 (severe). Recovery time was defined as total days from injury to unrestricted medical clearance. Separate Spearman’s rank correlations assessed the relationship between total cognitive activity (minutes in class and studying) and recovery outcomes (symptom total (22), symptom severity (132), and recovery time). Alpha level set a priori at 0.05.

Results

Twenty-one participants (14 female, 7 male, 19.5 ± 1.3 years) averaged a total of 653[IQR = 348] minutes of cognitive activity during the first 5 days after concussion (334[IQR = 149] minutes in class, 273[IQR = 313] minutes studying). Five days after injury, participants self-reported 3[IQR = 8] total symptoms yielding a severity of 4[IQR = 12]. Participants took 15 [IQR = 8] days to reach unrestricted medical clearance. No associations were found between total cognitive load and any post-concussion recovery outcomes (symptom total: Rs = −.299, p = .19; symptom severity: Rs = −.230, p = .32; recovery time: Rs = −.041, p = .86).

Conclusions

Preliminary analyses suggest that concussed college students can be encouraged to gradually return to normal levels of cognitive activity, as it may not be associated with future symptom reporting or recovery time. Future research is needed to assess specific cognitive activities immediately influence on post-concussion symptom reporting.
A-37 Neuropsychological Functioning In Cognitively Normal And Impaired Aging NFL Retirees
Authors: Schaffet J , Didehbani N , LoBue C , Hart J , Cullum C M
Published: June 2020

Objective

Identify differences in neuropsychological (NP) functioning between older (≥ 50) National Football League (NFL) retirees and age-matched controls, and examine whether differences correlate to head-injury exposure.

Method

NFL retirees were diagnosed with normal cognition (n = 20), mild cognitive impairment (n = 19), or dementia (n = 5) using Jak and Bondi (2009) criteria and clinical consensus. Retirees were age-matched to either healthy controls (n = 18) or clinical controls with MCI (n = 21) or dementia (n = 5). MANCOVAs and partial correlations covarying for age and education compared retiree’s NP performances to controls, and examined whether differences in NP measures were correlated with number of concussions, or games and years played in the NFL.

Results

Cognitively normal (CN) retirees displayed lower processing speed, naming, and verbal memory (p’s < .05) than CN controls. Impaired retirees displayed worse processing speed and naming than impaired controls, but better verbal memory (p’s < .05). Only lower verbal memory performance in CN retirees significantly correlated with number of games (r = −.60) and years played (r = −.54).

Conclusions

Aging CN and impaired retirees performed worse on single measures of processing speed and naming, but their performances did not correlate to head-injury exposure. Verbal memory performance varied between CN (worse than controls) and impaired retirees (better than controls). Overall, results suggest some aging NFL players may be at risk for reduced verbal memory, but this relationship could diminish following onset of MCI. No clear dose-response relationship was observed between head-injury exposure and NP functioning. Future studies should examine longitudinal trajectories of NP performances in larger samples to elucidate these findings.
A-38 A Different Approach for Examining Gender Differences on Computerized Neurocognitive Testing: Percentile Ranks Versus Composite Scores
Authors: Schatz P , Slicer K , Elbin R J
Published: June 2020

Objective

ImPACT is a popular tool used to assess neurocognitive function after concussion. Age- and gender-based percentile ranks are provided as part of the ImPACT clinical report, but only raw composite scores are provided for research. Percentile ranks may provide an alternate look at gender differences on neurocognitive testing. We sought to compare the use of percentile ranks versus composite scores when comparing neurocognitive performance between male and females.

Method

Pre-season baseline data from 3,238 collegiate athletes were exported from a larger multi-site database, 1,714 male (53%) and 1,524 female (47%), ages 18–22 (Mean = 19.3, SD = 1.2). ImPACT composite scores were extracted (Verbal Memory, Visual Memory, Visual Motor Speed, Reaction Time) and Percentile Ranks were calculated using age- and gender-based reference tables in the ImPACT 2017–2012 Technical Manual. One-way analyses of variance (ANOVA) were conducted with gender as the IV and the four composite scores and their associated percentile ranks as the DVs. Bonferroni correction for 8 comparisons set the alpha level to p < .006.

Results

ANOVAs revealed a significant effect of gender on ImPACT Verbal Memory [F(1,3236) = 16.32, p < .001], Visual Memory [F(1,3236) = 66.06, p < .001], Visual Motor Speed [F(1,3236) = 15.61,p < .001] but not Reaction Time [F(1,3236) = 2.59, p = .11]. When using percentile ranks, ANOVAs revealed a significant effect of gender on only Visual Motor Speed [F(1,3236) = 31.07, p < .001], but not Verbal Memory [F(1,3236) = 2.43, p = .12], Visual Memory [F(1,3236) = 0.48, p = .49], or Reaction Time [F(1,3236) = 0.61, p = .44].

Conclusions

Use of ImPACT Composite Scores in concussion research may exaggerate or inappropriately promote gender differences on computerized neurocognitive testing. Given that age- and gender-based normative data are available, use of percentile ranks is recommended.
A-39 Vestibular And Ocular Motor Symptoms And Impairment Associated With Post-Concussion Anxiety
Authors: Shaffer M , Holland C L , Eagle S R , Collins M W , Kontos A P
Published: June 2020

Objective

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between vestibular and ocular motor symptoms, impairment and anxiety following sport-related concussion (SRC). Immediate post-injury assessments are predictive of symptoms and are prognostic for prolonged recovery. Although concussion is associated with increased likelihood of developing mental health issues, the relationship between post-concussion vestibular symptoms, impairment and anxiety is unknown.

Method

This study represented a sub-analysis of a randomized control-trial (RCT), conducted on a sample of 50 participants (40% male), aged 13–18 ([M] = 15.38, [SD] = 2.05) years within 7–21 days of a SRC between October 2018 and January 2020. Participants completed the Vestibular/Ocular Motor Screening (VOMS) and General Anxiety Disorder 7 (GAD-7) at initial visit, and 2 and 4 week follow-ups. Patients were categorized using GAD-7 scores as having mild, moderate or severe anxiety.

Results

Numerous positive correlations ranging from .28 to .52 among VOMS and GAD-7 scores were supported. The severe (99.6, 26.6) anxiety group scored highest on total VOMS followed by the moderate (76.5, 30.1), and mild (63.1, 45.9) anxiety groups (p = .006). Results of logistic regression indicated that total VOMS score was a significant predictor of GAD-7 generalized anxiety score (R = .389, r2 = .151 p = .001).

Conclusions

Higher scores on VOMS were associated with higher post-injury anxiety. Participants with higher VOMS scores following SRC may be at increased risk for developing anxiety symptoms. The current findings can help clinicians target concussion treatment to each specific patient based on their VOMS and GAD-7 scores in combination, rather than in isolation.
A-41 Exploring the Influence of Referral Source on State Anxiety Levels of Concussed Patients
Authors: Stephenson K , Womble M N , Elbin R J
Published: June 2020

Objective

To explore the influence of referral source on state anxiety in concussed athletes.

Method

One hundred thirty athletes (mean age = 16.46, SD = 1.93 yrs; 42% female) seeking care for a concussion at a specialty clinic within 30 days of injury (M = 8.83, SD = 6.12 days) were enrolled in the study. Demographic (e.g., age, sex, and history of anxiety) and referral source (e.g., emergency department/urgent care, primary care/pediatrician, and athletic trainer) information were collected, and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) was administered to all participants. A one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted to compare STAI scores between referral groups, and a logistic regression (LR) was used to assess the relationship between referral sources and patients with and without clinical levels of state anxiety (STAI > 40). Statistical significance for all analyses was (p < .05).

Results

Approximately 25% (32/130) of patients reported a history of anxiety, and 46% (60/130) scored above clinical cutoffs for clinical anxiety. The referral groups did not differ on STAI scores (F(3, 130) = 1.12, p = .34), and the LR was not significant, (χ2(2, N = 130) = 3.75, p = 0.15).

Conclusions

History of anxiety was highly correlated with state anxiety at the first clinical visit; however, patients referred from different medical sources did not differ on clinical levels of anxiety at the first clinical visit following concussion.
A-43 Post-Traumatic Stress Symptoms in Sport-Related Concussion and Orthopedic Injury: An Initial Comparison
Authors: Tarkenton T , Presley C , Hynan L S , Miller S , Silver C H , Didehbani N , Cullum C M
Published: June 2020

Objective

Few studies have compared psychological responses to injury following sport-related concussion versus injury in general. The aim of this pilot investigation was to explore whether trauma-related stress symptoms differ between adolescents with sport-related concussion (SRC) vs. orthopedic injury (OI).

Method

Participants age 12-18 with SRC (n=48) or OI (n=12) presented to specialty clinics in the North Texas Concussion Registry (ConTex) within 21 days of injury (M= 6.7). Total scores from the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5) were calculated (range=0-80). Independent t-test compared PCL-5 symptom scores between SRC and OI, and post-hoc analyses examined frequency of symptoms reported within each group.

Results

There was no significant difference between mean PCL-5 scores in SRC and OI groups, and both obtained scores above the typical cutoff for PTSD, defined as scores >30 (range= 0-46; SRC=10%, OI=16%). Most commonly reported symptoms for both SRC and OI were sleep problems, feeling jumpy, and being “super alert.” SRC subjects were more likely to report difficulty concentrating (SRC=42%; OI=16%), while OI subjects were more likely to report feeling distant from other people (OI=50%; SRC=20%).

Conclusions

While total post-traumatic stress symptoms may not differ between SRC and OI groups, there may be differences in individual trauma-related symptoms based upon the nature of injury. Both injury groups may be susceptible to sleep difficulties and hypervigilance, yet SRC individuals may experience more cognitive complaints, while OI may report more feelings of isolation. Furture studies will need to use the PCL-5 with larger sample sizes and recovery indices to provide a more detailed comparison of the injury groups.
A-44 ImPACT of Amnesia Related Concussions Across Developmental Stages
Authors: Unjia K , Bennett R , Lashley L
Published: June 2020

Objective

This study aimed to examine the relationship between developmental stages and concussions that resulted in amnesia as measured by ImPACT.

Method

Participants were selected from an archival de-identified sports medicine ImPACT database. The sample (N = 4,200) was primarily male (62.2%) student athletes with ages ranging from 10 to 25 years. Participants were divided into three groups: Young athletes (n = 1,400), Adolescent (n = 1,400), and Adult (n = 1,400). A One-Way ANOVA was conducted to determine the relationship between age group and prevalence of concussions resulting in anterograde or retrograde amnesia.

Results

The One-Way ANOVA revealed significant differences between age group and anterograde F(2,4197) = 107.449, p < .001 and retrograde amnesia F(2,4197) = 82.949, p < .001. Bonferroni pairwise comparison revealed the adolescent athlete group experienced more concussions that result in both anterograde and retrograde amnesia compared to young and adult athletes. There was no significant difference between young and adult athletes. Additionally, there is a significant difference regarding total games missed following concussion F(2,4197) = 117.723, p < .001, with adolescent athletes missing more games compared to young and adult athletes.

Conclusions

The findings of this study suggest adolescent athletes tend to experience more amnesia-related concussions compared to young and adult athletes. Additionally, adolescent athletes miss more games following these types of concussions. This study highlights the impact that certain types of concussions have on athletes across the developmental stages. Future research should analyze the cognitive effects of various types of concussions across the developmental stages.
A-47 Resting-State Functional Connectivity Associated with Contact Level in Female Varsity Athletes
Authors: Wilson A , Stevens W D , Wojtowicz M
Published: June 2020

Objective

The effects of participation in contact sports on brain functioning is a growing area of concern in the athlete population. This pilot study examined differences in resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) associated with level of contact in female varsity student athletes.

Method

Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scans were collected from 29 female university athletes. Level of contact was characterized by active participation in collision sports (n = 13) and contact sports (n = 16). Athletes completed baseline testing including self-reported psychological measures. RsFC was compared between groups using Independent Component Analysis (ICA) within the default mode (DMN), frontoparietal (FPN), dorsal attention (DAN), salience (SN), and sensorimotor (SMN) networks.

Results

Collision sport athletes reported younger age at first sport (M = 4.7, SD = 1.2) and fewer past concussions (Md = 0, Range = 0–3) compared to contact sport athletes (M = 7.5, SD = 3.4; Md = 7.5, Range = 0–6; ps < .05). Collision sport athletes also reported fewer symptoms of depression on the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (p = 0.03). Collision sport athletes had decreased rsFC between the SMN and the left inferior frontal gyrus (T = −5.6, pFDR = 0.008) compared to the contact sport athletes. This difference in rsFC was not associated with age at first sport or prior concussion history.

Conclusions

Consistent with prior studies of varsity athletes, altered patterns of rsFC were observed in areas supporting somatomotor function in female athletes with suspected greater contact exposure. Further research is necessary to examine whether these neural changes are attributable to greater exposure to sub-concussive hits or other factors, such as differences in visuomotor abilities.