bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of TiB2 addition on the microstructural, electrical, and mechanical behavior of Cu–TiB2 composites processed via spark plasma sintering
Authors: Ayyappadas C , Teja Ravi , Annamalai A. Raja , Agrawal Dinesh K , Dilkush Shaik , Muthuchamy A. 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
In this investigation, copper–TiB2 metal matrix composites were fabricated by spark plasma sintering. The effect of TiB2 (2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10 wt.%) additions on the microstructural, electrical, and mechanical properties of the composites was investigated. There was a remarkable reduction in processing time and temperature by this process as compared to conventional sintering. Scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy elemental maps revealed a homogeneous distribution of TiB2 in the copper matrix. The hardness of the composites exhibited no consistent trend with the addition of TiB2. An improvement in tensile strength was observed at the expense of ductility. Electrical conductivity showed a decreasing trend. Morphology of the fracture surfaces was analyzed to predict the nature of failure under tensile load.
Structural, linear and non-linear optical properties of Cr-doped ZnO thin film for optoelectronics applications
Authors: Mekhnache Mounira , Benzarouk Hayet , Drici Abdelaziz 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
In this work, optical properties of undoped zinc oxide (ZnO) and chromium (Cr) doped ZnO prepared at different concentrations of Cr (2, 3, and 5 wt.%) on glass substrates by a spray pyrolysis method are reported. The structural properties investigated by X-ray diffraction revealed the hexagonal wurtzite structure, noting that the crystallite size of the films decreases with increasing Cr content. The optical characterization of the samples was carried out using spectral transmittance. The refractive index, energy gap, and extinction coefficient of pure and Cr-doped ZnO thin films have been calculated. The single oscillator model of Wemple–DiDomenico was used to study the dispersion of the refractive index. The oscillator parameters, the single oscillator energy, the dispersion energy, and the static refractive index were determined. The linear optical susceptibility and non-linear optical susceptibility were also studied and discussed. These promising results achieved by Cr-doping of ZnO exhibited an important behavior for technological applications in electronic, optoelectronic devices and non-linear optical applications.
Microstructure and mechanical characteristics of Cu-12.5Ni-5Sn-xFe sintered alloys
Authors: Wang Xiaochao , Li Zhen , Du Sanming , Wang Jingbo , Zhang Yongzhen 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
The Cu-12.5Ni-5Sn-xFe alloys were prepared using powder metallurgy. The effect of the amount of Fe addition on the microstructure and mechanical characteristics of Cu-12.5Ni-5Sn-xFe alloys was investigated. The microstructure and morphology of alloys were examined by means of X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and cold field emission scanning electron microscope. Results indicate that the hardness and yield strength of the Cu-12.5Ni-5Sn alloy are improved by addition of trace amounts of Fe. The lamellar precipitates of Cu-12.5Ni-5Sn-xFe alloys are more and finer compared to those of Cu-12.5Ni-5Sn alloy. Fe can facilitate the aging process and strengthen the effect of aging-hardening.
Electrochemical study of nickel nucleation mechanisms on glassy carbon at different pH values in an industrial electrolyte
Authors: Xu Yangtao , Zhu Zhenxu , Liu Lubin , Liu Zhijian 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
The electrochemical behavior of nickel at different pH values in industrial electrolyte was investigated by means of cyclic voltammetry, chronoamperometry and scanning electron microscopy. The results show that the cathodic reaction of nickel ions on glassy carbon electrode surface in industrial electrolyte is a quasi-reversible nucleation and growth process controlled by diffusion. The process is carried out in a three-dimensional instantaneous nucleation and growth mode, and pH values only influence the growth process. The grain size decreased, the deposition rate increased and the density of deposition layer on electrode surface increased with the increase in pH. When the electrolyte pH is 4.8, the grains are uniformly distributed on the electrode surface in a spherical shape with the size of 80 nm, which is the optimum pH value for preparing fine-grained nano-nickel.
Glass formation, magnetic properties, and electrical resistivity of the multi-component FeNbBCuNiCo amorphous alloys
Authors: Zhu Man , Zhang Chi , Xu Tao , Yao Lijuan , Liu Yongqin , Cai Mengmeng , Jian Zengyun 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
The effects of additions of Co and Ni to the FeNbBCu alloys on the glass forming ability (GFA), soft magnetic properties and electrical resistivity of Fe-based amorphous alloys were studied by means of X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, vibrating sample magnetometry and four-probe testing. The Fe80–x–y
Nb5B14Cu1Co
x
Ni
y
alloys exhibit high thermal stability and excellent GFA with T
x1 ≥ 735 K and T
x1/T
m ≥ 0.539. They also show excellent soft magnetic properties with high saturation magnetization of 93– 101 emu g–1 and low coercivity of 0.04 –2.37 Oe. The electrical resistivity of these alloys ranges from 121 μΩ cm to 163 μΩ cm. The newly developed FeNbBCu-CoNi glassy alloys not only possess good GFA and high thermal stability, but also have excellent magnetic properties, high electrical resistivity and low cost. With such promising properties, these alloys have potential for industrial applications.
Use of osteopathic manipulative treatment for low back pain patients with and without pain medication history
Authors: Montrose Stephanie , Vogel Mark , Barber Kimberly R. 
Published: February 2021

Abstract

Context
Low back pain is one of the most frequent diagnoses in primary care, and prescription pain medication is commonly used for management. Osteopathic physicians may use osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) as an additional tool to help alleviate pain.

Objective
To determine if nonpharmacological options can improve back pain with the use of OMT.

Methods
Two groups were studied: patients receiving OMT but not using prescribed pain medications (OMT-only group) and patients who received prescribed pain medication and began receiving OMT after three months of pharmacologic therapy (OMT + medication group). All patients were enrolled in the study for one year. The amount of time between treatments was determined by the physician performing the OMT and the patient’s pain improvement. The Keele STarT survey and Oswestry Disability Index tool were used at each appointment to assess the patient’s functionality and pain.

Results
Thirty-six patients enrolled in the study: 26 in the OMT-only group and 10 in the OMT + medication group. Each group reported improvement in low back pain (LBP) according to both scales used. The OMT-only group reported improvement according to the Keele STarT survey (30% relative decrease in the mean score) and the Oswestry Disability Index tool (18% relative decrease in disability index), while patients in the OMT + medication group also reported improvement according to the Keele STarT survey (29.5% relative decrease in the mean score) and the Oswestry Disability Index tool (18% relative decrease in disability index). A decrease in Cyclobenzaprine usage was also observed in the OMT + medication group.

Conclusion
Both groups showed significant decreases in overall pain, and this similar effect in each group may indicate a lack of need for medications when OMT is used. Additional research on efficacy of OMT in this patient population is needed with larger, multicenter, randomized trials.
Impact of an osteopathic presence in a large categorical pediatric residency training program
Authors: Barnhardt Elizabeth W. , Comer Frances , Zmuda Elizabeth , Rakowsky Alexander 
Published: February 2021

Abstract

Context
Nationwide Children’s Hospital (NCH) has a large pediatric residency program with 43 residents in the categorical pediatric program and 10 residents in the Internal Medicine-Pediatrics (IM-Peds) program per class. Of the 43 categorical pediatric residents, four are in the osteopathic recognition track (ORT) and continue their osteopathic education throughout residency. There is currently a lack of data examining the effect of an ORT, and specifically a pediatric ORT, on a residency program.

Objective
To evaluate the impact of an ORT osteopathic recognition track on an overall residency program’s perceptions of osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) and to evaluate allopathic (MD) resident perception of osteopathic educational sessions.

Methods
An anonymous survey was conducted in June 2017 and distributed to 141 residents (both categorical and IM-Peds) to gather baseline information regarding perceptions and knowledge of OMT. Based on the initial results, a four-part case-based educational series was implemented during the 2018–2019 academic year to teach osteopathic principles to MD residents. A second survey was distributed following each session.

Results
For the initial survey, 59 (41.8%) residents responded. Survey results demonstrated that resident perceptions of OMT as an efficacious treatment option increased after starting their residency at NCH (p=0.04), and 25 of 43 (58.1%) MD residents stated an interest in learning OMT skills. A total of 140 attendees were present at the four educational sessions. One hundred and thirty-eight residents (98.5%) found the educational sessions beneficial and 132 (94.2%) stated they would refer a patient for OMT.

Conclusion
ORT residents make a significant impact on their colleagues’ perceptions and knowledge of OMT. This study suggests that further efforts to highlight the clinical applications of OMT in pediatric patients would be welcomed by residents.
Straight back syndrome as a clue to diagnosing asymptomatic congenital valvular heart disease and limiting the risk of weightlifting
Authors: Schiavone William A. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractAlthough both are initially asymptomatic, mitral valve prolapse/myxomatous mitral valve disease (MVP/MMVD) and bicuspid aortic valve (BAV), with its associated aortic disease, are currently the two most common congenital valvular heart diseases. Severe mitral regurgitation due to rupture of chordae tendineae (CTR) prompts surgery for MVP/MMVD. Surgery for BAV is performed for severe aortic stenosis and/or regurgitation, often with management of root and/or ascending aortic enlargement. There may be an association between straight back syndrome (SBS) and MVP/MMVD, which may be a key to earlier diagnosis. Other associations link weightlifting with ascending aortic enlargement and with CTR, where the common theme is blood pressure elevation. As the number of people with fitness center memberships continues to increase, this potentially exposes more undiagnosed individuals with MVP/MMVD or BAV to risk from weightlifting. Challenges include making the public aware of this risk and preparing the osteopathic physician to recognize patients at risk through a structured history-taking and targeted cardiovascular examination.
Osteopathic manipulative treatment and the Spanish flu: a historical literature review
Authors: Baroni Francesca , Mancini Damiana , Tuscano Silvia Clara , Scarlata Simone , Lunghi Christian , Cerritelli Francesco , Haxton Jason 
Published: February 2021

Abstract

Context
The Spanish flu pandemic of 1918 was approached with a variety of management techniques available at that time, including osteopathic care in addition to standard medical care.

Objective
To analyze the osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) techniques used for the management of patients affected by the Spanish flu according to four themes: the principles and procedures used, frequency and length of OMT, reported side effects, and advice for patients.

Methods
A structured review of the literature was performed by hand-searching texts at the Museum of Osteopathic Medicine International Center for Osteopathic History in Kirksville, Missouri, and online via PubMed (National Library of Medicine), ScienceDirect (Elsevier), and Google Scholar (Google, Inc). The literature search was carried out between February and March 2020. Three keywords were selected from the medical subject headings database of the National Library of Medicine: manipulation, osteopathic; influenza pandemic, 1918–1919; epidemics. Articles were then reviewed for relevance by screening for articles published between 1900 and 1940 that contained at least 1 of the following keywords in their title: Spanish influenza, flu, epidemic, grippe, pneumonia, or osteopathic management/treatment. All articles that provided information about OMT and advice met the inclusion criteria. Articles that did not report descriptions of manipulative intervention were excluded.

Results
Our search yielded 63 articles: 23 from the hand-search and 40 from the electronic search. No electronic source was selected for the review because none met inclusion criteria. A total of 16 articles from the hand-searched set met inclusion criteria and were analyzed according to the four main themes stated in the objective. The range of OMT approaches reported to be administered to patients with Spanish flu suggests that early osteopathic physicians treated patients with this disease using OMT in addition to offering advice on healthy lifestyle behaviors.

Conclusion
Conclusions from this study are limited by the historical and descriptive nature of the data gathered, which lacked the rigor of modern-day scientific studies. However, this review could lead to future research inquiries on the effectiveness of these approaches. Osteopathic physicians and osteopaths should embrace their historical osteopathic heritage by continuing the work of our predecessors and combining their hands-on experience and osteopathic principles with modern medical treatment and rigorous scientific standards.
Clinical characteristics and lifestyle behaviors among individuals with arthritis: an analysis of 2017 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data
Authors: Greiner Benjamin , Checketts Jake , Fishbeck Keith , Hartwell Micah 
Published: February 2021

Abstract

Context
The combination of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis affects nearly one-fourth of Americans. Many of the risk factors for arthritis are lifestyle related, such as obesity, physical activity, dietary behaviors, and alcohol and tobacco use.

Objective
To analyze lifestyle behaviors of patients with vs. those without arthritis.

Methods
A cross-sectional analysis of 2017 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data was conducted on patients with and without a history of arthritis. Physical activity, smoking status, alcohol use, and dietary behaviors were extracted. Logistic regression models were constructed to calculate adjusted risk ratios (ARRs). All confidence intervals (CIs) were reported at 95%.

Results
The median response rate for the 2017 BRFSS survey was 45.1% (sample n=292,808; population N=118,751,156). The overall prevalence of arthritis was 44% (n=128,850). Respondents with arthritis were significantly more likely to be physically inactive than nonarthritic respondents, with a significant gender interaction (male absolute risk reduction [ARR], 1.2 [CI, 1.15–1.25]; female ARR, 1.29 [CI, 1.24–1.33]). Those with arthritis were also more likely to be current smokers (ARR 1.1; CI, 1.05–1.15) and less likely to have attempted to quit smoking in the last 12 months (ARR, 0.91; CI, 0.87–0.96). Finally, men with arthritis were more likely to drink alcohol heavily (ARR, 1.14; CI, 1.02–1.27]).

Conclusion
Patients with arthritis were more likely to be women, White, current smokers, and physically inactive, and to have poor mental health, lower education levels, and difficulty paying for healthcare and medications than those without arthritis. Further efforts should be made to address these findings through resource allocation in the care of patients with arthritis. Practitioners should also seek increased understanding of the psychological, social, and economic impacts of physical activity and smoking in patients with arthritis.
Robotic microsurgical spermatic cord denervation for chronic orchialgia: a case series
Authors: Goedde Michael A. , Nguyen Kristy D. , Choi Kellen B. 
Published: February 2021

Abstract

Context
Chronic orchialgia is a frustrating urologic condition that is commonly refractory to conservative modes of therapy. Microscopic spermatic cord denervation is a proven solution for patients who do not achieve relief from nonsurgical treatments. However, current widely used techniques require additional training in microsurgery.

Objective
To describe an adaptation and improvement of spermatic cord microdenervation technique that leveraged the robotic surgical training common for new urologists and is also accessible for urologists not specifically trained in microsurgery.

Methods
Robotic-assisted microdenervation of the spermatic cord was performed in three patients using a fluorescence vascular imaging tool to improve visualization of vascular structures (Firefly™; Innovative Surgical, Sunnyvale, CA, USA), along with a tissue matrix allograft to allow for better healing (AminoFix™; MiMedx®, Marietta, GA, USA).

Results
All three patients (100%) experienced postoperative resolution of their chronic orchialgia, and none reported any new pain.

Conclusion
Utilization of robotic-assisted surgery offers more urologists the ability to use familiar techniques to treat chronic orchialgia when conservative measures are unsuccessful.
The seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in a rural southwest community
Authors: Santarelli Anthony , Lalitsasivimol Diana , Bartholomew Nate , Reid Sasha , Reid Joseph , Lyon Chris , Wells James , Ashurst John 
Published: February 2021

Abstract

Context
The true prevalence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), has been difficult to determine due to limited testing, inconsistent symptom severity, and asymptomatic infections. Systematic investigation of the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 has been limited to urban environments and large academic centers. Limited data on the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 is available for those who live in a rural community setting, leaving rural practitioners to extrapolate the epidemiology of COVID-19 to a nonhomogeneous population.

Objective
To determine the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in a community setting. The secondary objective of this study was to describe the difference in infection rate and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) testing in the same rural community.

Methods
A prospective convenience sample of community members and healthcare workers from the Kingman, Arizona area were tested for SARS-CoV-2–specific antibodies using a lateral flow immunoassay with the VITROS Anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG test (Ortho-Clinical Diagnostics, Inc.) from September 28, 2020 to October 09, 2020. Upon recruitment, participants were asked to complete a demographic survey assessing socioeconomic status, comorbidities, and COVID-19 symptoms in the preceding two months. Following enrollment, a retrospective chart review was completed to determine the percentage of patients who had undergone previous SARS-CoV-RT-PCR testing.

Results
A total of 566 participants were included in the final analysis: 380 (67.1%) were women, 186 (32.9%) were men, a majority (458; 80.9%) self-identified as White, and 303 (53.5%) were employed as healthcare professionals. Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 was found to be 8.0% (45 of 566) across the sample and 9.9% (30 of 303) in healthcare workers. No statistical difference in seroprevalence was found between men and women, healthcare workers and other participants, amongst racial groups, by socioeconomic status, by comorbid conditions, or by education level. Among the participants, 108 (19.1%) underwent previous RT-PCR testing. Of the 45 patients who were antibody positive, 27 (60%) had received a previous RT-PCR test, with 20 (44.4%) testing positive for SARS-CoV-2. Participants with symptoms of anosmia/ageusia (p<0.001), chest congestion (p=0.047), fever (p=0.007), and shortness of breath (p=0.002) within the past two months were more likely to have antibodies to SARS-CoV-2.

Conclusion
Only 8% of 566 participants in this rural community setting were found to have antibodies for SARS-CoV-2. A large minority (18; 40%) of patients testing seropositive for SARs-CoV-2 had never received a prior test, suggesting that the actual rates of infection are higher than publicly available data suggest. Further large-scale antibody testing is needed to determine the true prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in the rural setting.
Monitoring Training Loads in Basketball: A Narrative Review and Practical Guide for Coaches and Practitioners
Authors: Piedra Aitor , Peña Javier , Caparrós Toni 
Published: February 2021

ABSTRACT
Monitoring training load provides information about the physical demands of the sport in which athletes are competing. Strength and conditioning coaches need to use this information to periodize and make decisions on training to optimize performance and prevent injuries. The following narrative review presents the current state of knowledge on monitoring external and internal loads in basketball. The reviewed articles were classified according to the sample represented, considering 3 groups: elite, subelite, and young basketball players. In addition, we analyzed the recording procedures and methodology used in technological and ecological terms. Articles were classified, considering what was monitored and the context in which it was monitored. These settings included competition, training, and small-sided games. Performance and sports injury variables were also taken into account in our review.
Training Load Monitoring and Injury Prevention in Military Recruits: Considerations for Preparing Soldiers to Fight Sustainably
Authors: Dijksma Iris , Sharma Jagannath , Gabbett Tim J. 
Published: February 2021

ABSTRACT
Musculoskeletal injuries (MSIs) during basic military training (BMT), frequently resulting in dropout, are well-recognized as a substantial problem both logistically and financially. Seven key evidence-informed principles of load management to minimize the risk of injury have been proposed in sport. A pertinent question is whether these principles can also be applied to military recruits by reducing the incidence and impact of MSIs and attrition from training. In this review, we address the challenges and possibilities of applying load management principles to BMT and suggest practical applications for military strength and conditioning professionals.
Optimizing Verbal Communication in the Instruction of Weightlifting to Weightlifting Naïve Athletes
Authors: Laakso Lassi A. 
Published: February 2021

ABSTRACT
Motor learning theories should be used by coaches to optimally apply their technical knowledge of weightlifting. The OPTIMAL (Optimizing Performance Through Intrinsic Motivation and Attention for Learning) theory of motor learning highlights the importance of motivation and attention in the motor learning process, with enhanced expectancies and autonomy underpinning the athlete's motivation and an external focus of attention optimizing the athlete's attention. Better results are obtained by collaborating with athletes in an athlete-centered approach, giving them a sense of control and ownership of their learning process and making them feel able to succeed in the learning process. The success resulting from the right balance between the athlete's confidence and task difficulty leads to an increase in the athlete's self-efficacy, further improving the learning process. When instructing weightlifting, coaches should say as much as necessary, but as little as possible, while using an implicit coaching strategy that focuses on the task goal. Instructions and cues should have an external focus of attention, relative to the athlete's body, or use analogies to provide a clear task goal while using simple language associated with familiar motor skills.