Kenneth E. Sparks

Cardiac rehabilitation using simultaneous voice and electrocardiographic transtelephonic monitoring

Abstract Based on the results of this survey, we conclude that simultaneous TEM technology is expanding and is an appropriate adjunct to hospital-based cardiac rehabilitation programs.

Tympanic Membrane Temperature and Hemispheric Cognitive Style

ABSTRACT The authors tested the hypothesis that there is a correlation between hemispheric cognitive style and ear temperature. A sample of 100 participants completed a measure of hemispheric cognitive style, the Hemispheric Consensus Prediction Profile. Ear temperatures were taken in 2 sessions, 2 times for each ear at each session. Average left ear temperature was subtracted from average right ear temperature as an index of dominant temperature. Only 56 of the participants showed a stable dominant ear temperature. For these 56 participants, there was a statistically significant positive correlation between scores on the Hemispheric Consensus Prediction Profile and tympanic member temperature (Spearmans ρ =.29, 95% CI [.04,.51]). Individuals with a left hemispheric cognitive style tended to have a warmer left tympanic membrane temperature while those with a right hemispheric cognitive style tended to have a warmer right tympanic membrane temperature. Tympanic membrane temperatures are easily obtained using inexpensive and noninvasive technology. The relationship suggested by these findings may open new opportunities for the study of cerebral asymmetry.

Physiological responses and exercise preference between the Trikke and the bicycle ergometer

Background/Objective The positive relationship between health benefits or the wellbeing of individuals and their engagement in physical activity is well-documented. Nevertheless, many Americans show no interest or perceive that “exercise is boring” as one of the reasons for not exercising. For these reasons, it is important to promote fun and enjoyment aspects of the activity to motivate people to participate in physical activity. The purpose of this study was to examine the physiological responses and the perception of enjoyment between the Trikke and the bicycle ergometer. Methods Thirty college students (15 males and 15 females) aged 18–45 years old voluntarily participated in the study and showed up on three occasions. The first session involved a 5-minute instructional video and practice on the Trikke. Participants were then randomized into sessions which involved either riding the Trikke or the bicycle ergometer. Participants of each group performed a 20-minute ride at 75–80% of maximal predicted heart rate. Results Results of mixed design analysis of variance (ANOVAs) indicated that VO2, energy expenditure, and rate of perceived exertion (RPE) of the participants were significantly (p < 0.001) higher when using the bicycle ergometer than the Trikke, and female participants were able to manipulate the Trikke more efficiently than their male counterparts. Conclusion Participants were more efficient in using the Trikke than the bicycle ergometer. The Trikke may be an enjoyable alternative for those individuals, particularly women, who have lost interest in traditional forms of exercise.