A kinematic comparison of on-ergometer and on-water kayaking.

The aim of this study was to compare the kinematic profile of on-water and on-ergometer kayaking during maximal paddling. Eleven elite junior female kayak athletes (Mean SD, age: 16.8 ± 1.2 years; body mass: 64.1 ± 8.1 kg) performed a 2-minute maximal kayaking exercise with their competition equipment on water, and a 2-minute maximal kayaking exercise on a standard ergometer. Kinematic data was recorded with an inertial motion capture system. Elbow, shoulder and knee angles and their respective angular velocities were extracted and normalised with respect to the stroke cycle. Statistical Parametric Mapping (SPM) was used to identify statistically significant differences between the two conditions. The stroke rate was significantly higher on ergometer (122.1 ± 6.8 strokes per minute) compared to on water (107.1 ± 4.6 strokes per minute, p < 0.05), with a difference of 8.4 ± 5.9 strokes per minute. Elite kayak female athletes exhibited differences in elbow, shoulder and knee kinematics when comparing on-ergometer to on-water performance. Moreover, the results demonstrated an increased range of motion in lateral bending in the thoracolumbar joint (p < 0.001). The current results support recent findings that a kayak ergometer may not replicate on-water kinematics.

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) for multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS): Results from a randomized controlled trial with 1 year follow-up.

OBJECTIVE: Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) is a medically unexplained condition characterized by symptoms from multiple organ systems following the perception of common odorants. The condition can cause severe functional impairment for afflicted individuals. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) for individuals with MCS. METHODS: The intention-to-treat sample (ITT) included 69 individuals who had been randomized to either MBCT or treatment as usual (TAU). The primary outcome measure was the Quick Environmental Exposure and Sensitivity Inventory (QEESI), which measures the following aspects of MCS: impact of MCS on daily life, symptoms, and reactions following chemical exposures. Secondary outcome measures included the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire (BIPQ) and the anxiety and depression subscales of the symptom checklist 92 (SCL-92). Participants were assessed at baseline and post treatment, and at follow-up periods of 6- and 12-months. RESULTS: We found no effect of MBCT on the primary outcome, nor did we find an effect on levels of depression or anxiety. We did, however, find positive changes in illness perceptions, which were sustained at 12-month follow-up. Dropout rates were low, suggesting MBCT was well received and regarded as an acceptable intervention by individuals with MCS. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, these results suggest that MBCT does not change overall illness status in individuals with MCS, but that MBCT positively changes emotional and cognitive representations. Possible explanations for these results are discussed.

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy for multiple chemical sensitivity: a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) is a condition characterized by recurrent, self-reported symptoms from multiple organ systems, attributable to exposure to a wide range of chemically unrelated substances at low levels. The pathophysiology is unknown, and affected individuals generally favor avoidance of the symptom triggering substances as a coping strategy. The impact of MCS on daily life may thus be severe. An intervention that may effectively reduce the impact of MCS, alleviate the symptoms and the psychological distress associated with the condition is therefore highly needed. In this study we will assess the effects of a mindfulness-based cognitive (MBCT) program on MCS. METHODS/DESIGN: Using a randomized controlled design (RCT), we will compare MBCT with treatment as usual (TAU). The MBCT intervention will include 8 weekly 2.5 hour sessions, and 45 minutes of mindfulness home practice 6 days each week. Participants will be asked to complete questionnaires at baseline, post-treatment, and at 6 and 12 months' follow-up. Based on sample size estimation, 82 participants will be randomized to either the MBCT intervention or to TAU. The primary outcome will be a measure of the impact of MCS on the participants' lives. The secondary outcome measures are physical symptoms of psychological distress, perceived stress, illness perceptions, QOL, and work ability. Lastly, we will assess whether any effect of MBCT on the primary effect measure is mediated by level of mindfulness, self-compassion, perceived stress, and rumination. DISCUSSION: This trial will provide important information on the effects of MBCT on MCS. TRIALS REGISTRATION: Clinical trials identifier NCT01240395.