Browsing by Author "Neary, J. Patrick"

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Open Access
Assessing Pre-Frontal Cortex Oxygenation After Sport Concussion With Near Infrared Spectroscopy
(Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research, University of Regina, 2016-07) Bishop, Scott Allen; Neary, J. Patrick; Bruno, Paul; Dorsch, Kim
Clinicians typically rely on neuropsychological and balance tests to track concussion recovery. These balance and neuropsychological tests only imply impairments that are based on performance – the tests do not directly measure (or reliably track) brain physiology throughout concussion recovery. Because of these issues, there has been a call to find an objective biomarker that can index both severity and the timeline for recovery. An additional problem is that, with the amount of concussions occurring at a recreational activity level, an effective biomarker must be cost effective, easily applied, and easily interpreted for lay people. To address these issues, non-invasive near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) was used to assess pre-frontal cortex oxygenation, by measuring relative changes in oxy- (HbO2 ) and deoxy-hemoglobin (HHb), and the associated standard deviations. Resting hemoglobin, and hemoglobin changes in response to increases in CO2 (induced by 20s breath-holds), were measured in all participants. Data were aggregated into healthy baselines (n = 115), and concussed participants on days 1-3 (n =14), 4-6 (n = 8), and 7-14 (n = 11). The data were statistically compared using 1 x 4 ANOVAs. Results showed that resting HbO2 values progressively lowered from days 1-3 to 7-14 (with no differences compared to controls). This is a similar statistical trend to a previous functional magnetic resonance imaging study that focused on concussions (Meier et al., 2015). The second major finding showed that hypercapnic HbO2 standard deviation was lower than resting values in days 1-3 and 4-6, but reversed back towards the healthy control group as the injury abated. Monitoring pre-frontal cortex oxygenation changes is a viable biomarker to assess the physiological state of the brain following concussion. Keywords: concussion, pathophysiology, near-infrared spectroscopy, hypercapnia
Open Access
Assessing the impact of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) protocol and Emotional Resilience Skills Training (ERST) among diverse public safety personnel
(BMC, 2022-12-09) Carleton, R. Nicholas; McCarron, Michelle; Krätzig, Gregory P.; Sauer-Zavala, Shannon; Neary, J. Patrick; Lix, Lisa M.; Fletcher, Amber J.; Camp, Ronald D.; Shields, Robyn, E.; Jamshidi, Laleh; Nisbet, Jolan; Maguire, Kirby Q.; MacPhee, Renée, S.; Afifi, Tracie O.; Jones, Nicholas A.; Martin, Ronald, R.; Sareen, Jitender; Brunet, Alain; Beshai, Shadi; Anderson, Gregory S.; Cramm, Heidi; MacDermid, Joy C.; Ricciardelli, Rosemary; Rabbani, Rasheda; Teckchandani, Taylor A.; Asmundson, Gordon J.G.
Public safety personnel (PSP; e.g., border services personnel, correctional workers, firefighters, paramedics, police, public safety communicators) are frequently exposed to potentially psychologically traumatic events. Such events contribute to substantial and growing challenges from posttraumatic stress injuries (PTSIs), including but not limited to posttraumatic stress disorder.
Open Access
Associations Between Personality and Mental Health Among Royal Canadian Mounted Police Cadets
(Springer Science and Business Media LLC, 2024-01-27) Andrews, Katie L.; Jamshidi, Laleh; Nisbet, Jolan; Afifi, Tracie O.; Sauer-Zavala, Shannon; Krätzig, Gregory P.; Teckchandani, Taylor A.; Neary, J. Patrick; Carleton, R. Nicholas
AbstractRoyal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) report frequent exposures to diverse potentially psychological traumatic events (PPTEs) that can lead to symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health disorders. Personality traits may partially inform the substantial mental health challenges reported by serving RCMP. The current study examines associations between HEXACO personality factor and facet-level dimensions and mental health disorders of RCMP cadets starting the Cadet Training Program (CTP). RCMP cadets (n = 772) starting the CTP self-reported sociodemographics, personality, and mental health disorder symptoms. Emotionality was associated with MDD, GAD, and SAD (AORs ranged from 6.23 to 10.22). Extraversion and Agreeableness were inversely associated with MDD, GAD, and SAD (AORs ranged from 0.0159 to 0.43), whereas Openness to Experience was inversely associated with SAD (AOR = 0.36). Several facet-level personality dimensions were associated with mental health disorders. Inconsistent differences were observed between men and women for relationships between personality factors, facets, and positive screenings for mental disorders. The relationship patterns allude to possible risk and resilience factors associated with personality factors and facets. Early training, interventions, and resources tailored to cadet personality factors and facets might reduce risk and bolster mental health resilience.
Open Access
Cardiac cycle timing intervals in acute COVID-19 and recovered COVID-19 with sustained symptoms
(Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research, University of Regina, 2022-06) Singh, Jyotpal; Neary, J. Patrick; Bardutz, Holly; Bhagaloo, Lanishen; Mang, Cameron; Buttigieg, Josef; Eves, Neil D.
Research is available to show that COVID-19 can result in both acute and sustained cardiac damage. Acute cardiac damage may be due to elevated inflammatory responses and can result in ischemia, which can lead to impairments in the cardiac cycle timing events. The purpose of this project was threefold: 1) to characterise cardiac cycle timing intervals in patients with COVID-19, 2) to understand the mechanisms that compromise cardiac function in post-acute COVID-19 syndrome (PACS)/long COVID, and 3) to identify unique cardiac dysfunction which can occur due to COVID-19 as compared to cardiac and respiratory disease. First, case studies showed that daily observation of cardiac function provided detailed information about the overall dynamic changes by which cardiac dysfunction occurs, and thus can be beneficial study on a case by-case basis, day-to-day during acute infection. The literature review supports the findings of altered cardiac mechanics and suggests that right ventricular dysfunction, along with global longitudinal strain and diastolic dysfunction are common findings in patients with PACS/long COVID, and a more severe acute myocardial injury during the index hospitalization appears to exacerbate cardiac function on follow-up. Finally, a Kruskal-Wallis ANOVA showed that participants with COVID-19 and sustained symptoms present with elevated systolic time and decreased IVCT in comparison to acute COVID-19, and those with respiratory and cardiac disease. These are reflected by decreases in heart, diastolic, and systolic performance indices (HPI, DPI and SPI, respectively), thereby showcasing a unique cardiac dysfunction in patients with sustained symptoms from COVID-19. Future research must consider the details of cardiac complications during the acute infection period and relate this to the cardiac function in patients with long COVID during a mid- and long-term follow-up.
Open Access
Comparison of seismocardiography to echocardiography for measuring cardiac cycle events
(University of Regina Graduate Students' Association, 2011-04-02) Quarrie, David Mac; Neary, J. Patrick
Background Seismocardiography (SCG) measures timing and force of cardiac contraction. However, limited data is available to confirm its ability to accurately record these events in comparison to echocardiography (Echo). This study compared SCG with Echo to determine whether SCG provided a valid measure of cardiac performance. We hypothesized that the SCG measurements would not be different from Echo. Methods and Results SCG and Echo was performed on 28 (17 females) healthy volunteers (Mean ± SD; age=39.3±13.9 yrs; age range = 12-59 yrs). The SCG was recorded in the supine position. Following SCG collection, Doppler and M-mode Echo measurements were collected. Data analysis was performed on 10 cardiac cycles (SCG’s) and 1-3 Echo images. The results showed the % differences between the Echo and SCG for all comparable variables ranged from 0.90% to 11%, with similar coefficient of variation. Independent T-tests (p<0.05) showed no significant differences between the Echo and SCG, respectively, for aortic valve open to acceleration time of systole (71±13 vs 76±12 msec), mitral valve open to E-wave (111±33 vs 110±20 msec), E-wave to A-wave (370±118 vs 410±144 msec), mitral valve open to E-wave (159±20 vs 164±28 msec), and mitral valve open to mitral valve close (536±129 vs 573±148 msec). Statistically significant differences were found for aortic valve open to aortic valve close (292±18 vs 264±20 msec), and isovolumic relaxation time (81±15 vs 91±8 msec). Conclusion SCG reliably measured cardiac timing when compared to the reference method, suggesting that SCG could be used in applied and clinical research.
Open Access
Daily survey participation and positive changes in mental health symptom scores among Royal Canadian Mounted Police Cadets
(Frontiers, 2023-08-04) Shields, Robyn, E.; Teckchandani, Taylor A.; Asmundson, Gordon J.G.; Nisbet, Jolan; Krakauer, Rachel L.; Andrews, Katie L.; Maguire, Kirby Q.; Jamshidi, Laleh; Afifi, Tracie O.; Lix, Lisa M.; Brunet, Alain; Sauer-Zavala, Shannon; Krätzig, Gregory P.; Neary, J. Patrick; Sareen, Jitender; Carleton, R. Nicholas
Introduction: Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) officers self-report high levels of mental health disorder symptoms, such as alcohol use disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, panic disorder, and posttraumatic stress disorder. Participation in regular mental health monitoring has been associated with improved mental health disorder symptom reporting and may provide an accessible tool to support RCMP mental health. The current study assessed relationships between self-reported mental health disorder symptoms and the completion of daily surveys (i.e., daily mental health disorder symptom monitoring) by RCMP cadets during the Cadet Training Program (CTP). Methods: Participants were RCMP cadets (n = 394; 76.1% men) in the Standard Training Program who completed the 26-week CTP and daily self-monitoring surveys, as well as full mental health assessments at pre-training (i.e., starting the CTP) and pre-deployment (i.e., ~2 weeks prior to deployment to the field). Symptoms of alcohol use disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, panic disorder, and posttraumatic stress disorder were assessed. Changes in mental health disorder symptom reporting from pre-training to pre-deployment were calculated. Spearman’s rank correlations were estimated for number of daily surveys completed and change in mental health disorder symptom scores between pre-training and pre-deployment. Results: There were statistically significant inverse relationships between number of daily surveys completed and number of mental health disorder symptoms reported; specifically, cadets who completed more daily surveys during CTP reported fewer symptoms of alcohol use disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, panic disorder, and posttraumatic stress disorder. Conclusion: An inverse correlation between number of daily surveys completed and mental health disorder symptom scores indicated that participation in daily mental health monitoring was associated with improvements in self-reported mental health disorder symptoms between pre-training and pre-deployment. Regular self-monitoring of mental health disorder symptoms may help to mitigate mental health challenges among RCMP cadets and officers.
Open Access
The Development of Context-Specific Biofeedback Training Screens – An Application to Hockey Officials
(Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research, University of Regina, 2014-07) Chomos, Adam James Stephen Chomos; Dorsch, Kim; Neary, J. Patrick; Paskevich, David; MacLennan, Richard
The benefits and potential of biofeedback training for enhancing athletic performance has received noticeable consideration in both research and practice. While most biofeedback research applied to sport participants has focused primarily on athletes, one group of participants has been neglected in both research and training. This group is known as sports officials. Ice hockey officials are required to possess various physical, cognitive, and psychological skills, suggesting that biofeedback training to enhance their on-ice performance holds strong utility. Since biofeedback research applied to sport offers very little perspective into the needs and requirements of biofeedback protocols applied to officials of sport, the purpose of this research project is to develop the first context-specific biofeedback training screens applied to hockey officiating. Working in conjunction with and obtaining approval from the Saskatchewan Hockey Association (SHA), participating referees and linesman were outfitted with a Contour 1080p© helmet camera to capture various on-ice experiences from a game-to-game basis. A focus group was held with SHA official representatives (i.e., official supervisors, mentors) to gain a better understanding as to (a) the various physical and cognitive/mental skills and abilities that are necessary to the official while on the ice, (b) the potential utility of biofeedback training for enhancing hockey official’s performance, and (c) how the previously obtained videos could be incorporated into the training experience so as to make the training experience more applied and meaningful. The results of the focus group provided valuable insight as to how the biofeedback training screens and tasks could be developed around the acquired video segments. Once the video segments were identified and validated by contextual experts (participants of the focus group), they were incorporated and configured into formatted biofeedback training screens using software offered by Thought Technology™. The implications of this research include educating officials on how their psychophysiology can influence their on-ice performance as well how they can utilize biofeedback training methods to restore and improve their performance. As a result, this research project is a critical step for future biofeedback research and training applied to sports officials.
Open Access
The Effect of Hyperthermia on Cerebral Hemodynamics, Biological Fatigue and Cardiovascular Strain During 40km Time- Trial Cycling in Trained Triathletes
(Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research, University of Regina, 2013-07) Schaerz, Simon; Neary, J. Patrick; Bruno, Paul; Candow, Darren; Butcher, Scott
The 40 kilometer cycling time-trial (40kmTT) is a sanctioned event in the summer Olympics and is an integral part of the olympic distance triathlon. It is often performed in hot humid climates. Thus, both the exercising muscle and the brain are subject to significant biological fatigue and task failure. This study examined the influence of a 40kmTT performed in the heat on central (brain) and peripheral (muscle) variables. It was hypothesized that middle cerebral artery velocity (MCAv) and the degree of muscle activation ( integrated electromyography - iEMG) of the vastus lateralis would decrease during 40kmTT cycling in hyperthermia (HYP) when compared to thermoneutrality (TN). Cardiovascular strain (stroke volume – SV, mean arterial pressure - MAP, cardiac output – Q and heart rate – HR) was expected to be higher in the HYP versus the TN 40kmTT. Twelve triathletes completed a 40kmTT in HYP (40ºC) and TN (18ºC) on a Velotron cycle ergometer. iEMG (normalized to signal intensity at VO2max - %PP), MCAv (cm·s-1), performance measures, cardiovascular strain parameters, ventilatory measures were recorded and averaged over a one minute period immediately prior to the completion of every five kilometers. Results showed that iEMG was significantly lower at 30, 35 and 40km in HYP compared to TN (26.2 ± 7.7, 26.2 ± 5.4 and 26.7 ± 9.2 %PP versus 35.1± 10.2, 36.1 ± 10.1 and 40.7 ± 11.3 %PP respectively, p < 0.05). This coincided with slower 5km splits during HYP over these intervals (10.06 ± 1.4, 9.81 ± 1.2 and 10.03 ± 1.1 minutes versus 8.92 ± 1.0, 8.81 ± 0.9 and 8.51 ± 0.9 minutes, p < 0.05). No change in MCAv between and the HYP and TN 40kmTT (p < 0.05) were found, despite higher cardiovascular strain (i.e., reduced MAP and SV and increased HR). Protective mechanism of the cerebral circulatory system maintains cerebral blood flow over a wide range of physiological conditions. In this investigation the degree of muscle activation of the vastus lateralis was found to be significantly influenced by heat, likely contributing to the reduced 40kmTT performance.
Open Access
The Effect of Isokinetic Exercise for Prehabilitation: ACL Reconstruction
(Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research, University of Regina, 2019-03) Tyson, Erin Edith Ann; Neary, J. Patrick; Candow, Darren; Bruno, Paul; Stuart-Hill, Lynneth
Preparing for the stress of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction (ACLR) surgery through prehabilitation may improve strength and function before surgery, and if effective, has the potential to contribute to postoperative recovery. The purpose of this experimental study was to investigate the effectiveness of using isokinetic exercise for prehabilitation of patients with complete ACL tears, awaiting ACLR surgery. Patients with complete ACL tears, and scheduled for ACLR were randomized into the isokinetic exercise training group or the control group. The isokinetic exercise training group completed an isokinetic strengthening program that included isokinetic concentric exercise for the injured knee, 20 times over 8 weeks before their ACLR. The control group did not receive the treatment. Both groups were encouraged to continue any exercise or activities they were currently participating in. Leg strength (isokinetic peak torque for knee extension and flexion) was assessed before randomization at baseline (T1), again 8-weeks (T2) preoperative, and 24-weeks (T3) postoperative. In addition, at 24-weeks (T3) postoperative, the single leg hop test for distance was added as a functional measure. Following the 8-week exercise intervention, quadriceps peak torque improved (p<0.05) from baseline in the exercise group compared to the control group at all three isokinetic speeds: 60˚/sec, 120˚/sec and 180˚/sec. At 24-weeks post-surgery, quadriceps peak torque was still higher compared to the control group at two isokinetic speeds: 60˚/sec, 120˚/sec (p<0.05), and approached significance at 180˚/sec (p=.059). At 24-weeks post-surgery, quadriceps peak torque at 60˚/sec in the exercise group had ii improved from baseline measures (p<0.05) and approached statistical significance at 120˚/sec (p=.053), compared to the control group. At 24-weeks post-surgery, the exercise group performed better on the single leg hop test, than the control group (p<0.05). Participants in the isokinetic exercise group had higher quadriceps peak torque both pre- and postoperatively compared to the control group (p<0.05). This increased peak torque lead to improved function, as reflected in the single leg hop tests scores (p<0.05). These results reflect that improving quadriceps strength preoperatively contributes to stronger quadriceps postoperatively. Improved quadriceps strength postoperatively would assist patient adaptation to the rehabilitative process, as well as increase quality of life and slow the progression of osteoarthritis. The rehabilitative process may be accelerated, allowing the patient to return to sport and activity sooner, and potentially prevent re-injury. This study supports prehabilitation for patients awaiting ACLR, however further studies need to be done to develop guidelines and protocols. Longitudinal research should examine the effects of prehabilitation programs for years after ACLR and include analysis of return to sport outcomes.
Open Access
The Effects of 'High-Low' Resistance Training and Creatine Supplementation in Aging Adults
(Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research, University of Regina, 2016-01) Johannsmeyer, Sarah; Candow, Darren; Bruno, Paul; Neary, J. Patrick; Wright, Kristi; Ditor, David
The purpose was to investigate the effects of high-low resistance training (2 sets of leg press, chest press, hack squat and lat pull-down exercises performed to muscle fatigue at 80% baseline 1-repetition maximum [1-RM] immediately followed by repetitions to muscle fatigue at 30% baseline 1-RM) and creatine supplementation in aging adults. Participants were randomized to one of two groups: Creatine (CR: n = 14, 7 females, 7 males; 0.1 g/kg/day of creatine + 0.1 g/kg/day of maltodextrin; age = 58.0 ± 3.0 years) or Placebo (PLA: n = 17, 7 females, 10 males; 0.2 g/kg/day of maltodextrin; age = 57.6 ± 5.0 years) during 12 weeks of high-low resistance training (3 days/week). Prior to and following training and supplementation, assessments were made for body composition (whole-body lean tissue mass, fat mass, bone mineral), strength (1-RM for the leg press, chest press, hack squat and lat pull-down exercise), muscle endurance (total number of repetitions performed for 1 set using 70% baseline 1-RM for the chest press exercise and 80% 1-RM for the leg press exercise), tasks of functionality (hand-grip strength, balance, falls, walking speed), muscle protein catabolism (urinary excretion of 3-methylhistidine, 3-MH) and diet. Results showed that high-low resistance training improved lean tissue mass, muscle strength, endurance and tasks of functionality (p < 0.05). The addition of creatine to high-low resistance training significantly increased body mass (p = 0.002) and lean tissue mass (p = 0.007) compared to placebo. Males on creatine increased muscle strength (lat pull-down only) to a greater extent than females on creatine (p = 0.005). Creatine enabled males to train at a greater capacity over time compared to males on placebo (p = 0.049) and females on creatine (p = 0.012). Males on creatine (p = 0.019) and females on placebo (p = 0.014) decreased 3-MH, while females on creatine showed an increase. In conclusion, high-low resistance training is an effective intervention for improving muscle mass, muscle performance and functionality in aging adults. The addition of creatine to high-low resistance training augments the gains in lean tissue mass from resistance training alone. Keywords: Sarcopenia, Muscle Mass, Strength, Endurance, Muscle Protein Catabolism
Open Access
Effects of Endurance Exercise on Cerebral and Muscle Oxygenation
(Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research, University of Regina, 2012-07) Duff, Whitney Ranelle Dorthy; Neary, J. Patrick; Candow, Darren; Somers, Christopher; Billaut, Francois
It has been suggested that during exhaustive exercise both a central and peripheral mechanism of fatigue exists. Indeed, a central debate in the exercise science literature is the nature of fatigue that determines exercise performance under different conditions (Swart et al., 2009a). Hypoxia, for example, has a small but direct role on the cessation of exercise, specifically during endurance performances (Millet, Aubert, Favier, Busso, & Benoit, 2008; Secher, Seifert, & Van Lieshout, 2008). Numerous studies to date have provided new information related to the factors implicated in short-term high intensity exercise, while more studies of a longer nature (endurance time trials), measuring central and peripheral fatigue factors simultaneously, and under hypoxic conditions, are needed to add additional information to guide our understanding of the mechanisms involved in central and peripheral fatigue. This thesis represents a contribution to the much needed research within this area. Four key papers, separated into four chapters, discuss this research in this thesis. To investigate these effects, an integrative physiological approach was used by including muscle and cerebral oxygenation changes (NIRS), cardiovascular and pulmonary responses and blood biochemistry during cycling exercise in a normoxic and hypoxic environment. The primary inference of this thesis is that in hypoxia the brain is protected and the muscle is in need of a similar oxygenation and extraction to do less work; a finding that contributes to the support of previous speculations in the literature. A secondary inference of this thesis is that a difference in the pattern of oxygenation between continuous and incremental exercise exists; a finding that has not been previously identified in the literature. The findings from this study have therefore furthered our understanding of the nature of fatigue, specifically in endurance exercise under acute hypoxic conditions, and the relationship between the central and peripheral factors associated with fatigue.
Open Access
Effects of Exercise Training on Heart Failure Measured Using Seismocardiography
(Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research, University of Regina, 2019-12) Silbernatel, Jonathan Eric; Neary, J. Patrick; Candow, Darren; Dorsch, Kim; Buttigieg, Josef
Heart failure has become a growing health concern across most of the Western world and will soon become a global health focus. The nature of the disease presents with a very high mortality rate. In Canada alone, the average mortality rate is approximately 50% within the first five years of diagnosis [1]. Exercise has now become a common treatment modality for many chronic disease conditions including heart failure. As heart failure advances, the myocardium goes through a remodeling phase that alters the contractility of the heart and its pumping efficiency. Exercise is known to lead to a positive remodeling of the myocardium in healthy populations, but the degree to which exercise reverses pathological remodeling in individuals with heart failure remains to be determined. The purpose of this study was to analyze the Systolic Timing Intervals (STI) of the myocardium, specifically left ventricular ejection time (LVET) and the pre-ejection period (PEP) using seismocardiography (SCG), as well as to investigate the functional health changes measured using the six-minute walk test (6MWT). Participants exercised three times per week for a period of 12 weeks involving a combination of aerobic and resistance type activities. The SCG screening and 6MWT were performed at the commencement, and at the 12 week point of their exercise program. Eleven individuals participated in this study with varying etiologies for heart failure (ischemic n=6 and nonischemic n=5). Among the individuals with ischemic heart failure, significant improvement were observed in 6MWT distance, (477.0±127.0m to 539.3±113.9m t(5)=- 3.01, p=0.030), but no significant improvements were noted in indices of myocardial function. However, in the non-ischemic group, significant changes were noted in indices iii of myocardial function including LVET (449.6±36.0ms to 438.4±30.5ms t(149)=4.28, p=<0.001), and PEP (128.0±23.5ms to 119.9±18.5ms t(149)=6.87, p=<0.001), but no statistically significant changes were observed in 6MWT distance (p=0.056). This study showed that SCG can be used to record the mechanical function of the heart in individuals with heart failure, that exercise training can produce positive mechanical changes to the heart for individuals with non-ischemic heart failure, and exercise capacity can increase in for individuals with ischemic based heart failure.
Open Access
The Effects of Mild Bilateral Jugular Vein Compression on Cerebrovascular Physiology
(Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research, University of Regina, 2019-12) Dech, Ryan Tyler; Neary, J. Patrick; Candow, Darren; Dorsch, Kim; Doyle-Baker, Patricia K.
Cerebrovascular physiology is a branch of study surrounding the relationship between the brain and heart. This relationship is critical for health, performance, and survival and must be maintained in a metabolically balanced state to prevent any adverse effects. Recently, there have been efforts by groups of researchers to challenge this system via external jugular vein compression to investigate the effect of brain blood-flow and hemodynamics. So far positive outcomes using the Q-Collar™ have been observed in neuroanatomical and neurophysiological studies. However, there has yet to be validation of Q-Collar™ use through real-time monitoring of cerebrovascular physiology, specifically during acute exercise. This project examined the effects of the Q-Collar™ on cerebrovascular physiology through monitoring various indices. Using near-infrared spectroscopy, capnograpahy, electrocardiography and photoplethysmography, a detailed understanding of the Q-Collar™ effect was ascertained. Data was acquired over an 87-minute protocol that tested the effect of Q-Collar™ application during seated rest, postural change, and acute aerobic exercise. Results showed that there were significant increases in blood volume (via deoxyhemoglobin and total hemoglobin, p = <0.05) during postural change and exercise when using the collar. This study suggests that the Q-Collar™ does not present any known physiological risk during short-term acute exercise and should continue to be used and researched. Further research is warranted to examine the chronic use of the collar over a season(s) of sport to see whether adaptive processes occur.
Open Access
An exploratory consideration of cognition and physiology in athletes following concussion
(Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research, University of Regina, 2023-03) Lillie, Garrett Richard; Dorsch, Kim; Neary, J. Patrick; Mang, Cameron; Brigham, Mark
A mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), colloquially known as a concussion, is an injury of the brain that often results in significant functional impairment for days, weeks, or even months. While the most common symptoms of concussion have been well documented and studies frequently note a deficit in either higher-level cognitive functioning and autonomic physiological control, there is a lack of research describing the effect of concussion on executive functioning and heart rate variability (HRV). The aim of this study was to address gaps in literature by describing changes in an individual’s executive functioning and physiology simultaneously following a concussion using two investigative approaches, using the theory of neurovisceral integration as a guiding framework. Secondary data from University of Regina athletes was used to examine baseline executive functioning (measured by Neurotracker®) and athlete HRV transformed from ECG. These results were subsequently compared to the same measures postinjury. Prior to review of data from the 2019-2020 academic year, there was an expectation that occurrence of a concussion would be associated with a decrease in Neurotracker® performance, Mean R-R intervals (Mean R-R), and Root-Mean-Square-Difference of successive R-R intervals (RMSSD) while also being associated with increases in Low-Frequency/High-Frequency (LF/HF) ratio and Standard Deviation 2/Standard Deviation 1 (SD2/SD1) ratios. Across a sample of eight participants, only one participant experienced the expected change in variable while the two participants that experienced symptoms the longest, featured smaller deviations from their baselines. My study was exploratory in nature and suggests directions for future research.
Open Access
Exploring the Relationship Between Cheerleading Injury, Coping Skills, and Athlete Burnout with Performance
(Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research, University of Regina, 2014-10) Shuya, Daysha; Dorsch, Kim; Neary, J. Patrick; Riemer, Harold; Forsberg, Nicholas J.
Cheerleading is transitioning from a dance-like activity to an acrobatic, gymnastic-like sport. In the process, injuries have increased substantially, including higher rates of catastrophic injury. To date, no studies have addressed the psychological wellness of performers in relation to injury rates among cheerleaders, or used these psychometric measures over short time-frames. This study has two main objectives. Objective #1 is to explore the difference in scores between the Athlete Burnout Questionnaire (ABQ; Raedeke & Smith, 2001) and the Athletic Coping Skills Inventory-28 (ACSI-28; Smith, Schutz, Smoll, & Ptacek, 1995) over a short duration, high-intensity performance timeframe. Objective #2 is to explore the possible relationship between psychological variables from the ABQ and the ACSI-28, in terms of injuries, over a short period, high-intensity time-frame to see if they are related to: performance errors and injuries. These objectives were accomplished with a prospective study of injury surveillance using descriptive data from psychometric questionnaires for a cheerleading team of 37 athletes (8 males, 29 females) from the Canadian Football League (CFL) with a mean age of 22.2 years. The team was followed over a high intensity, 4-day performance schedule, using the ABQ and the ACSI- 28 that were completed pre- and post-performance, to explore a possible relationship between short-term changes in the psychometric ratings of burnout and coping with performance. Performance was measured by tracking rates of performance error and injury during the 4-day intensive performance schedule. During the football game event, 20 errors were noted, involving 40 athletes and causing injuries. The number of injuries increased each day for the 4-day schedule (Day 1 = 2 injuries, Day 2 = 3 injuries, Day 3 = 4 injuries, Day 4 = 5 injuries). Paired t-tests were used to compare the changes pre- and postpsychometric measures, with statistically significant changes found in the athletes’ perception of coping with adversity (t = 2.2; p = .05) and freedom from worry (t = 2.6; p = .02). No statistically significant changes were seen in athlete burnout, though the athletes scored higher than average for each subset, compared to normative values at Time 1. Emotional and physical exhaustion levels increased (Time 1: M = 2.4, SD = .82; Time 2: M = 2.7, SD = .64); however, the athletes reported an increased sense of accomplishment (Time 1: M = 2.0, SD = .53; Time 2: M = 1.9, SD = .40) after completing the 4-day intensive performance schedule. In this study, athlete errors and safety risks increased during the high volume performance schedule. Little change occurred in the psychometric variables pre- and post-performance, but a correlation was seen between the pre- and post-testing of the ABQ (r =.82) and in comparing the ABQ with the ACSI-28 (r = .49).
Open Access
The Impact of a Cardiac Rehabilitation Program and Gender on Depressive Symptoms in Cardiac Patients
(Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research, University of Regina, 2014-03) Marshall-Prain, Natalie Kym; Dorsch, Kim; Neary, J. Patrick; Daschuk, James; Riemer, Harold; Hampton, Mary
A cardiac event affects the physical and psychological well being of individuals. Among the psychological consequences, researchers have found that a cardiac event can lead to high levels of depressive symptoms in both males and females (Milani, Lavie, & Cassidy, 1996). To date, research has confirmed the beneficial effects of a cardiac rehabilitation (CR) program on depressive symptoms (Casey, Hughes, Waechter, Josephson, & Rosneck, 2008; Zellweger, Osterwalder, Langewitz, & Pfisterer, 2004); however, there has been a limited focus on how males and females differ in their depressive symptoms both prior to commencing and after completing a CR program. Previous research has shown that patients with heart disease and co-morbid depressive symptoms have a high risk for subsequent major cardiac events and potentially fatal cardiac consequences (Irwin, Artin, & Oxman, 1999). This can place a significant economic burden on society, lead to treatment drop-out and program non-compliance, and reduce the overall well-being of the patient (Tylee & Gandhi, 2005). However, understanding the impact of a CR program on depressive symptoms may reduce these health risks. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the effect of a CR program on depressive symptoms in male and female heart disease patients after a cardiac event. The study used secondary data based on the treatment of a twelve-week, physician supervised, community-based CR program. Responses from 272 participants (178 men and 94 women) who completed the center for epidemiological studies depression (CES-D) scale questionnaire were collected twice over the course of the rehabilitation program (at baseline and twelve weeks). Although previous research has shown that females have an increased susceptibility to depressive symptoms in both the cardiac and general population (Lindwall, Stain-Malmgren, Andersson, Aberg-Wistedt, & Schenck-Gustafsson, 2007), the female participants in this study did not score higher than males for depressive symptoms at the start or at the completion of the CR program. Moreover, male and female participants did not possess a high score for depressive symptoms at the start of the CR program or after completing the program; despite preceding studies that indicate a high score for depressive symptoms at the commencement of a CR program and an overall improvement in depressive symptoms over the course of a CR program (Milani & Lavie, 2007; Shepherd & While, 2012). It is also worth noting that only 35% of the sample were women. In order to understand some of reasons why the participants in this study did not show signs of depressive symptoms, there needs to be additional questions that address barriers to participation in cardiac rehabilitation as part of the questionnaires that are already in place. Moreover, to ensure that attendance in cardiac rehabilitation is effective and immediate, there needs to be more efficient strategies that allow for continued contact between the health care provider and the cardiac patient.
Open Access
Impairments, Health-Related Physical Fitness, and Leisure Time: Physical Activity Following Spinal Cord Injury
(Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research, University of Regina, 2014-04) Arora, Tarun; Staples, Kerri; Neary, J. Patrick; Bhambhani, Yagesh; Farthing, Jonathan P.
A spinal cord injury (SCI) can lead to impairments that impact fitness, health and quality of life. Although advances in medical technology have increased survival rates, individuals with SCI continue to experience various health problems that may be associated with a decrease in overall fitness. Physical activity has the potential to improve health-related physical fitness levels. According to the most recent physical activity guidelines, individuals with SCI should participate in 20 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous intensity leisure time physical activity (LTPA) two times per week (Ginis et al., 2011). These physical activity guidelines also recommend 3 sets of 8 to 12 repetitions of strengthening exercises twice weekly targeting all major muscle groups. These guidelines are aimed towards improving fitness components, including cardiovascular endurance, and muscular strength. Of particular concern are results that suggest approximately 50% of individuals with SCI are already meeting or exceeding these recommendations (Ginis et al, 2010 b). Despite already exceeding the recommendations, many individuals with SCI continue to have lower levels of fitness, frequent health complications, and lower QOL (Noreau et al., 2000; Warburton et al., 2008). The purpose of this thesis was to examine the potential differences in health-related physical fitness components and quality of life between individuals with SCI who meet the SCI-specific physical activity guidelines and those individuals with SCI who do not. The study also examined the potential differences in the health-related physical fitness components between individuals with complete and incomplete injuries. This study used the methods that have been validated for individuals with SCI. Using the Leisure Time Physical Activity Questionnaire for Individuals with SCI (Ginis et al., 2012), eight out of the 10 participants in this research study were meeting the recommended levels of physical activity. The results of this study also suggest that completeness of injury impacts LTPA participation with all inactive participants having complete injuries. Subjective QOL as assessed using the World Health Organization Quality of Life -BREF (1998) was not significantly different between the active and inactive participants. Cardiovascular endurance was measured using a direct VO2peak test using arm crank ergometry as the mode of exercise. The VO2peak of active individuals was significantly higher than that of inactive individuals. Also, VO2peak was significantly higher for participants with incomplete injury versus complete injuries. Shoulder muscle fitness (strength and endurance) was assessed using an isokinetic dynamometer. Peak torque and total work done were significantly different between active and inactive participants. Participants with complete injuries had higher values of peak torque than participants with incomplete injuries. Ratios of the peak strength of antagonist muscles showed alterations from the normal ratios for most of the participants. Results of dual energy X-ray absorptiometry demonstrated significantly higher fat percentages among inactive participants than active participants. Alterations in body composition appear to be the most severe in lower extremities. Overall, participants who are inactive appear to have lower health-related physical fitness levels. All inactive participants in this study had complete injuries. Participants with complete injuries appear to have lower health-related fitness levels than participants with incomplete injuries.
Open Access
Measures of Cardioautonomic Dysfunction as Markers of Sport Related Concussion
(Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research, University of Regina, 2020-12) Teckchandani, Taylor A.; Neary, J. Patrick; Candow, Darren; Mang, Cameron; Brigham, Mark
The field of concussion research is vast but lacking in uniformity when implementing or recommending evaluative protocols. Of the pathological characteristics associated with concussion, autonomic dysfunction includes but is not limited to a dysregulation of autonomic afferent and efferent pathways in both cortical and medullary regions, resulting in impaired intrinsic autoregulatory function influencing inotropic and chronotropic aspects of myocardial contractility, as well as vascular smooth muscle regulation (1,2). Popular methods of assessing autonomic function in the wake of a concussion include heart rate variability (HRV) analysis, blood pressure variability analysis (BPV), and spontaneous baroreceptor sensitivity (SBRS). This project aims to examine the impact of concussive trauma on cardioautonomic functioning and multilevel cardioautonomic integration across two studies in 65 otherwise healthy college-aged athletes, with a focus on heart rate variability, blood pressure variability, and the multilevel autonomic integration required for cardiac baroreflex functioning across six time epochs (baseline, days 1-3, days 4-7, days 8-11, days 12-15, and days 16+) using rest and rhythmic breathing portions (0.1 Hz) of the Neary Protocol. Two within-subject repeated-measures multilevel modelling approaches were used for statistical analysis to address non-equidistant sampling intervals present in the data set, with a Sidak post-hoc test for pairwise comparisons with alpha set at p<0.05. I conclude that rhythmic breathing is the preferred methodology to assess cardioautonomic dysfunction in the wake of a concussion, integrate heart rate variability and baroreceptor sensitivity values, and speculate about a potential mechanism responsible for patterns of cardioautonomic dysfunction to paint a picture of the multilevel autonomic integration that can be readily evaluated to diagnose concussion.
Open Access
Mental health disorder symptom changes among public safety personnel after emotional resilience skills training.
(Elsevier Inc., 2025-02-05) Carleton, R. Nicholas; Sauer-Zavala, Shannon; Teckchandani, Taylor A.; Maguire, Kirby Q.; Jamshidi, Laleh; Shields, Robyn, E.; Afifi, Tracie O.; Nisbet, Jolan; Andrews, Katie L.; Stewart, Sherry H.; Fletcher, Amber J.; Martin, R; MacPhee, Renée, S.; MacDermid, J.C.; Keane, Terence M.; Brunet, Alain; McCarron, Michelle C. E.; Lix, Lisa M.; Jones, N.A.; Krätzig, Gregory P.; Neary, J. Patrick; Anderson, Gregory S.; Ricciardelli, Rosemary; Cramm, Heidi; Sareen, Jitender; Asmundson, Gordon J.G.
Public safety personnel (PSP) are frequently exposed to psychologically traumatic events. The exposures potentiate posttraumatic stress injuries (PTSIs), including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Protocol was designed to mitigate PTSIs using ongoing monitoring and PSP-delivered Emotional Resilience Skills Training (ERST) based on the Unified Protocol for the Transdiagnostic Treatment of Emotional Disorders. The current study pilot-tested ERST effectiveness among diverse PSP.
Open Access
Mental Health of Royal Canadian Mounted Police at the Start of the Cadet Training Program
(SAGE Publications, 2023-05-02) Carleton, R. Nicholas; Jamshidi, Laleh; Maguire, Kirby Q.; Lix, Lisa M.; Stewart, Sherry H.; Afifi, Tracie O.; Sareen, Jitender; Andrews, Katie L.; Jones, Nicholas A.; Nisbet, Jolan; Sauer-Zavala, Shannon; Neary, J. Patrick; Brunet, Alain; Krätzig, Gregory P.; Fletcher, Amber J.; Teckchandani, Taylor A.; Keane, Terence M.; Asmundson, Gordon J.G.
Objective Serving Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) have screened positive for one or more mental disorders based on self-reported symptoms with substantial prevalence (i.e., 50.2%). Mental health challenges for military and paramilitary populations have historically been attributed to insufficient recruit screening; however, cadet mental health when starting the Cadet Training Program (CTP) was unknown. Our objective was to estimate RCMP Cadet mental health when starting the CTP and test for sociodemographic differences. Method Cadets starting the CTP completed a survey assessing self-reported mental health symptoms (n = 772, 72.0% male) and a clinical interview (n = 736, 74.4% male) with a clinician or supervised trainee using the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview to assess current and past mental health. Results The percentage of participants screening positive for one or more current mental disorders based on self-reported symptoms (15.0%) was higher than the diagnostic prevalence for the general population (10.1%); however, based on clinical interviews, participants were less likely to screen positive for any current mental disorder (6.3%) than the general population. Participants were also less likely to screen positive for any past mental disorder based on self-report (3.9%) and clinical interviews (12.5%) than the general population (33.1%). Females were more likely to score higher than males (all ps<.01; Cohen's ds .23 to .32) on several self-report mental disorder symptom measures. Conclusions The current results are the first to describe RCMP cadet mental health when starting the CTP. The data evidenced a lower prevalence of anxiety, depressive, and trauma-related mental disorders than the general population based on clinical interviews, contrasting notions that more rigorous mental health screening would reduce the high prevalence of mental disorders among serving RCMP. Instead, protecting RCMP mental health may require ongoing efforts to mitigate operational and organizational stressors.