ORCID Profile
0000-0001-6741-330X
Current Organisations
University of South Australia
,
RMIT University
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Publisher: IEEE
Date: 07-2013
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 02-03-2011
DOI: 10.1038/EJCN.2011.17
Abstract: The association between meat consumption and the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) has been controversial. One of the difficulties in determining this association has been measurement of different attributes of meat consumption, including cooking methods and level of doneness. We investigated the association between meat consumption and cooking practices and the risk of CRC in a population-based case-control study in the Western Australian Bowel Health Study. From July 2005 to February 2007, 567 incident CRC cases and 713 controls, who were frequency matched to cases for age- and sex, completed questionnaires on lifestyle and meat consumption. Estimated odds ratios (ORs) comparing meat consumption quartile groups were obtained from multivariate logistic regression models. The amount of red baked meat consumed had a statistically significant inverse trend of association with CRC (Q4 OR=0.73 95% confidence interval 0.53-1.01). When frequency was multiplied by serving size and by doneness, the association remained protective but was no longer statistically significant. The protective trends for red pan-fried meat were also borderline statistically significant. There were no other statistically significant or meaningful associations with any of the types of meat cooked by any method and the risk of CRC. Our data do not support the hypothesis that meat consumption is a risk factor for CRC.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 11-2012
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 30-12-2020
DOI: 10.1002/PON.5298
Abstract: The ACTIVATE Trial examined the efficacy of a wearable-based intervention to increase physical activity and reduce sedentary behavior in breast cancer survivors. This paper examines the effects of the intervention on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and fatigue at 12 weeks (T2 end of intervention) and 24 weeks (T3 follow-up). Inactive and postmenopausal women who had completed primary treatment for stage I-III breast cancer were randomized to intervention or waitlist control. Physical activity and sedentary behavior were measured by Actigraph and activPAL accelerometers at baseline (T1), end of the intervention (T2), and 12 weeks follow-up (T3). HRQoL and fatigue were measured using the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Breast (FACT-B) and the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue (FACIT-Fatigue). Primary intervention effects were evaluated comparing intervention and waitlist group at T2 using repeated measures mixed effects models. Overall, 83 women were randomized and trial retention was high (94%). A 4.6-point difference in fatigue score was observed between groups at T2 (95% CI: 1.3, 7.8) indicating improvement in fatigue profiles in the intervention group. In within groups analyses, the intervention group reported a 5.1-point increase in fatigue from baseline to T2 (95% CI: 2.0, 8.2) and a 3.3-point increase from baseline to T3 (95% CI: 0.1, 6.41). Despite small improvements in fatigue profiles, no effects on HRQoL were observed. While the ACTIVATE Trial was associated with improvements in physical activity and sedentary behavior, more intensive or longer duration interventions may be needed to facilitate changes in HRQoL.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 17-11-2018
DOI: 10.3390/RS10111825
Abstract: The prediction of forest biomass at the landscape scale can be achieved by integrating data from field plots with satellite imagery, in particular data from the Landsat archive, using k-nearest neighbour (kNN) imputation models. While studies have demonstrated different kNN imputation approaches for estimating forest biomass from remote sensing data and forest inventory plots, there is no general agreement on which approach is most appropriate for biomass estimation across large areas. In this study, we compared several imputation approaches for estimating forest biomass using Landsat time-series and inventory plot data. We evaluated 18 kNN models to impute three aboveground biomass (AGB) variables (total AGB, AGB of live trees and AGB of dead trees). These models were developed using different distance techniques (Random Forest or RF, Gradient Nearest Neighbour or GNN, and Most Similar Neighbour or MSN) and different combinations of response variables (model scenarios). Direct biomass imputation models were trained according to the biomass variables while indirect biomass imputation models were trained according to combinations of forest structure variables (e.g., basal area, stem density and stem volume of live and dead-standing trees). We also assessed the ability of our imputation method to spatially predict biomass variables across large areas in relation to a forest disturbance history over a 30-year period (1987–2016). Our results show that RF consistently outperformed MSN and GNN distance techniques across different model scenarios and biomass variables. The lowest error rates were achieved by RF-based models with generalized root mean squared difference (gRMSD, RMSE ided by the standard deviation of the observed values) ranging from 0.74 to 1.24. Whereas gRMSD associated with MSN-based and GNN-based models ranged from 0.92 to 1.36 and from 1.04 to 1.42, respectively. The indirect imputation method generally achieved better biomass predictions than the direct imputation method. In particular, the kNN model trained with the combination of basal area and stem density variables was the most robust for estimating forest biomass. This model reported a gRMSD of 0.89, 0.95 and 1.08 for total AGB, AGB of live trees and AGB of dead trees, respectively. In addition, spatial predictions of biomass showed relatively consistent trends with disturbance severity and time since disturbance across the time-series. As the kNN imputation method is increasingly being used by land managers and researchers to map forest biomass, this work helps those using these methods ensure their modelling and mapping practices are optimized.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 15-03-2018
DOI: 10.3390/RS10030460
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 03-12-2010
Abstract: Antismoking mass media c aigns have been shown to reduce smoking prevalence in the mainstream community, however there is little published research on their effect on Aboriginal Australian smokers. To evaluate the awareness and impact of a mainstream mass media advertising c aign (the 'Bubblewrap' c aign) on Aboriginal smokers in the state of Western Australia. A personal intercept survey was conducted in July 2008 across three sites (the Perth metropolitan area and the non-metropolitan towns of Kalgoorlie and Broome). An opportunity or convenience s ling strategy was used to recruit Aboriginal participants, and face-to-face interviews were conducted with 198 Aboriginal smokers to ascertain awareness of the c aign advertisements, whether they were seen as believable and relevant, and the impact the advertisements had on smoking behaviour. The majority of the participants interviewed had seen and/or heard the 'Bubblewrap' c aign advertisements, although there was considerably greater awareness of the television advertisement than the radio advertisements. Both forms of advertising were considered to be believable and relevant by the majority of Aboriginal smokers. Most of the smokers interviewed thought about cutting down and/or quitting after seeing or hearing the advertisements. Our findings suggest that mainstream antismoking mass media c aigns can positively influence the thoughts and behaviours that Aboriginal smokers have, and exhibit, towards quitting smoking. Notwithstanding this, advertisers should continue to look for better ways to incorporate Aboriginal themes in c aign messages. Future mainstream antismoking c aigns should source sufficient funds to ensure that advertising messages reach the large Aboriginal populations in regional and remote Australia.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 23-08-2012
DOI: 10.1093/JNCI/DJS354
Abstract: Although there is convincing epidemiological evidence that physical activity is associated with a reduced risk of colon cancer, it is unclear whether physical activity is differentially associated with the risks of proximal colon and distal colon cancers. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate this issue. MEDLINE and EMBASE were searched for English-language cohort and case-control studies that examined associations between physical activity and the risks of proximal colon and distal colon cancers. A random-effects meta-analysis was conducted to estimate the summary relative risks (RRs) for the associations between physical activity and the risks of the two cancers. All statistical tests were two-sided. A total of 21 studies met the inclusion criteria. The summary relative risk of the main results from these studies indicated that the risk of proximal colon cancer was 27% lower among the most physically active people compared with the least active people (RR = 0.73, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.66 to 0.81). An almost identical result was found for distal colon cancer (RR = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.68 to 0.80). The results of this systematic review and meta-analysis suggest that physical activity is associated with a reduced risk of both proximal colon and distal colon cancers, and that the magnitude of the association does not differ by subsite. Given this finding, future research on physical activity and colon cancer should focus on other aspects of the association that remain unclear, such as whether sedentary behavior and nonaerobic physical activity are associated with the risk of colon cancer.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-09-2013
DOI: 10.1038/BJC.2013.544
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 21-06-2022
DOI: 10.1038/S42003-022-03554-Y
Abstract: Hormone-related cancers, including cancers of the breast, prostate, ovaries, uterine, and thyroid, globally contribute to the majority of cancer incidence. We hypothesize that hormone-sensitive cancers share common genetic risk factors that have rarely been investigated by previous genomic studies of site-specific cancers. Here, we show that considering hormone-sensitive cancers as a single disease in the UK Biobank reveals shared genetic aetiology. We observe that a significant proportion of variance in disease liability is explained by the genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), i.e., SNP-based heritability on the liability scale is estimated as 10.06% (SE 0.70%). Moreover, we find 55 genome-wide significant SNPs for the disease, using a genome-wide association study. Pair-wise analysis also estimates positive genetic correlations between some pairs of hormone-sensitive cancers although they are not statistically significant. Our finding suggests that heritable genetic factors may be a key driver in the mechanism of carcinogenesis shared by hormone-sensitive cancers.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-11-2020
DOI: 10.1002/CNCR.32578
Abstract: High levels of sedentary behavior may negatively affect health outcomes in cancer survivors. A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to clarify whether postdiagnosis sedentary behavior is related to survival, patient-reported outcomes, and anthropometric outcomes in cancer survivors. The Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL (The Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature), and SPORTDiscus databases were searched from study inception to June 2019. Studies of adults who had been diagnosed with cancer that examined the association between sedentary behavior and mortality, patient-reported outcomes (eg, fatigue, depression), or anthropometric outcomes (eg, body mass index, waist circumference) were eligible for inclusion. Meta-analyses were performed to estimate hazard ratios for the highest compared with the lowest levels of sedentary behavior for all-cause and colorectal cancer-specific mortality outcomes. The ROBINS-E (Risk of Bias in Nonrandomized Studies-of Exposures tool) and the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) system were used to assess the risk of bias and the strength of evidence, respectively. Thirty-three eligible publications from a total of 3569 identified articles were included in the review. A higher level of postdiagnosis sedentary behavior was associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality (hazard ratio, 1.22 95% CI, 1.06-1.41 heterogeneity [I Although avoiding high levels of sedentary behavior after a cancer diagnosis may improve survival, further research is required to help clarify whether the association is causal.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2015
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 02-03-2023
DOI: 10.1002/JOC.8047
Abstract: The stable oxygen isotope composition of precipitation (δ 18 O p ) in southern China is considered as a valuable proxy of climatic conditions. However, their interpretations have been controversial. In this study, based on the observed and simulated data (isoGSM2) on oxygen isotope composition of precipitation, the linkage between summer precipitation ( P ) and δ 18 O p in the Dongting Lake basin and their possible influencing factors were investigated. The results indicate that the interannual variation of summer δ 18 O p is consistent with that of annual δ 18 O p . They both show a significantly negative correlation with the summer P , suggesting that the stable isotope composition in precipitation may be considered as a proxy of summer precipitation in the Dongting Lake basin. Statistically, the amount effect and circulation effect are significant in the isotope composition of precipitation in the basin. Based on either the observed data in Changsha or the simulated data for the basin, the local amount effect appears more important than large‐scale circulation for δ 18 O p during extreme summers. These results can potentially improve the reconstruction of paleoclimate in the East Asian monsoon region. Further study is needed to determine the contribution of local and large‐scale factors to the oxygen isotope composition of precipitation and to quantify the integral rainout along the moisture transporting paths.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 10-05-2021
DOI: 10.3390/RS13091850
Abstract: Floating and washed ashore marine plastic debris (MPD) is a growing environmental challenge. It has become evident that secluded locations including the Arctic, Antarctic, and remote islands are being impacted by plastic pollution generated thousands of kilometers away. Optical remote sensing of MPD is an emerging field that can aid in monitoring remote environments where in-person observation and data collection is not always feasible. Here we evaluate MPD spectral features in the visible to shortwave infrared regions for detecting varying quantities of MPD that have accumulated on beaches using a spectroradiometer. Measurements were taken from a range of in situ MPD accumulations ranging from 0.08% to 7.94% surface coverage. Our results suggest that spectral absorption features at 1215 nm and 1732 nm are useful for detecting varying abundance levels of MPD in a complex natural environment, however other absorption features at 931 nm, 1045 nm and 2046 nm could not detect in situ MPD. The reflectance of some in situ MPD accumulations was statistically different from s les that only contained organic debris and sand between 1.56% and 7.94% surface cover however other s les with similar surface cover did not have reflectance that was statistically different from s les containing no MPD. Despite MPD being detectable against a background of sand and organic beach debris, a clear relationship between the surface cover of MPD and the strength of key absorption features could not be established. Additional research is needed to advance our understanding of the factors, such as type of MPD assemblage, that contribute to the bulk reflectance of MPD contaminated landscapes.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 07-2023
DOI: 10.1136/BMJSEM-2023-001597
Abstract: To estimate the age-specific lifetime prevalence of skin cancer in a s le of Australian golf participants and estimate skin cancer risk in golf participants compared with a general population-based s le. Golf participants in Australia (n=336) completed the Australian Golf Health Survey which collected data on skin cancer diagnosis (self-reported history), physical activity levels and participant demographics. Data were compared with a s le of the Australian general population (n=15780, Australian Health Survey). Age-specific lifetime prevalence of skin cancer in golf and general population-based s les was determined, and modified Poisson regression (adjusted for age, sex, education and smoking status) was used to estimate the association between playing golf and the risk of a current or past skin cancer diagnosis. One in four golf participants (n=91 27%) had received a skin cancer diagnosis compared with 7% (n=1173) of the general population. Golf participants were 2.42 (2.01 to 2.91) (relative risk (95% CI)) times more likely to report a skin cancer diagnosis than the general population after adjusting for age, sex, education and smoking status. Playing golf in Australia is associated with a higher age-specific lifetime prevalence of skin cancer compared with the general population. Golf organisations, clubs and facilities should inform golf participants about the risk of skin cancer and promote preventive strategies including use of high-Sun Protection Factor (SPF) sunscreen, appropriate hats and clothing.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 18-03-2011
DOI: 10.1093/AJE/KWQ513
Abstract: Research suggests that sedentary behavior may increase the risk of some chronic diseases. The aims of the study were to examine whether sedentary work is associated with colorectal cancer and to determine whether the association differs by subsite. A total of 918 cases and 1,021 controls participated in a population-based case-control study of colorectal cancer in Western Australia in 2005-2007. Data were collected on lifestyle, physical activity, and lifetime job history. The estimated effects of sedentary work on the risk of cancers of the proximal colon, distal colon, and rectum were analyzed by using multinomial logistic regression. Compared with participants who did not spend any time in sedentary work, participants who spent 10 or more years in sedentary work had almost twice the risk of distal colon cancer (adjusted odds ratio = 1.94, 95% confidence interval: 1.28, 2.93) and a 44% increased risk of rectal cancer (adjusted odds ratio = 1.44, 95% confidence interval: 0.96, 2.18). This association was independent of recreational physical activity and was seen even among the most recreationally active participants. Sedentary work was not associated with the risk of proximal colon cancer. These results suggest that long-term sedentary work may increase the risk of distal colon cancer and rectal cancer.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 2018
DOI: 10.1111/EMR.12295
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 27-08-2021
DOI: 10.1038/S41366-021-00942-Y
Abstract: Observational and Mendelian randomization (MR) studies link obesity and cancer, but it remains unclear whether these depend upon related metabolic abnormalities. We used information from 321,472 participants in the UK biobank, including 30,561 cases of obesity-related cancer. We constructed three genetic instruments reflecting higher adiposity together with either "unfavourable" (82 SNPs), "favourable" (24 SNPs) or "neutral" metabolic profile (25 SNPs). We looked at associations with 14 types of cancer, previously suggested to be associated with obesity. All genetic instruments had a strong association with BMI (p < 1 × 10 Higher adiposity associated with a higher risk of non-hormonal cancer but a lower risk of some hormone related cancers. Presence of metabolic abnormalities might aggravate the adverse effects of higher adiposity on cancer. Further studies are warranted to investigate whether interventions on adverse metabolic health may help to alleviate obesity-related cancer risk.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.CANEP.2022.102183
Abstract: Australian accreditation standards specify upper limits for percentages of women recalled for further assessment following screening mammography. These limits have been unchanged since national screening commenced circa 1990, although screening target ages have changed, and technology from analogue to digital mammography. This study compared 2804 women with interval cancers diagnosed since national screening began (cases) with 14,020 cancer-free controls (5 controls per case), randomly selected after matching by age, round, screen type and calendar year of screening episode, to determine the odds of interval cancer by differences in clinic recall to assessment percentages. Within low numbers of recalls that were within accepted accreditation ranges, results did not indicate more frequent recalls to assessment to be associated with fewer interval cancers in the analogue era. However, more frequent recalls were associated with reduced interval cancers for digital screens. These results are not conclusive, requiring confirmation in other screening environments, especially those with larger numbers of digital screens. If confirmed, frequency of recalls to assessment may need adjustment to get the best trade-offs in the digital era between reduced odds of interval cancers from more recalls and increases in financial and non-financial costs, including increased potential for overdiagnosis.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-08-2017
DOI: 10.1007/S10549-017-4449-4
Abstract: With only 5-10% of breast cancer cases attributed to genetic inheritance, prevention efforts have focused on modifiable risk factors. Physical activity plays a role in reducing breast cancer risk however, the interaction between physical activity and other modifiable risk factors, such as obesity, has received little attention. A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted of studies examining the relationship between physical activity and breast cancer and how it may be modified by body mass index (BMI). A total of 29 papers were included: 18 were cohort and 11 were case-control studies. Overall, a significant reduction in the relative risk of breast cancer was found in postmenopausal women with high versus low levels of physical activity for women with a BMI <25 kg/m The results of this meta-analysis suggest that physical activity is associated with a larger breast cancer risk reduction among women who are normal weight or overweight than among women who are obese. Since the included studies used erse methods for assessment of physical activity and categories of BMI, results should be interpreted with caution and additional work is needed.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2016
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.CCT.2017.10.015
Abstract: Physical activity is positively associated with survival and quality of life among breast cancer survivors. Despite these benefits, the majority of breast cancer survivors are insufficiently active. The potential health benefits of reducing sedentary behaviour (sitting time) in this population have not been extensively investigated. The ACTIVATE Trial will evaluate the efficacy of an intervention that combines wearable technology (the Garmin Vivofit2®) with traditional behavioural change approaches to increase physical activity and reduce sedentary behaviour performed by breast cancer survivors. This randomised controlled trial includes inactive, postmenopausal women diagnosed with stage I-III breast cancer who have completed their primary treatment. Participants are randomly assigned to the primary intervention group (Garmin Vivofit2® behavioural feedback and goal setting session and, five telephone-delivered health coaching sessions) or to the wait-list control group. The primary intervention is delivered over a 12-week period. The second 12-week period comprises a maintenance phase for the primary intervention group, and an abridged intervention (Garmin Vivofit2® only) for the wait-list control group. Moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA) and sedentary behaviour are assessed by accelerometry at baseline (T1), end of intervention (T2), and end of maintenance phase (T3). The ACTIVATE Trial is one of the first studies to incorporate wearable technology into an intervention for cancer survivors. If the use of wearable technology (in combination with behaviour change strategies, or alone) proves efficacious, it may become an inexpensive and sustainable addition to the health promotion strategies available to health care providers in the cancer survivorship context. ACTRN12616000175471.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 22-01-2023
DOI: 10.3390/W15030438
Abstract: The study on precipitation isotope variation can potentially improve the understanding of weather processes, regional water cycle and paleoclimate reconstruction in the subtropical monsoon region. Based on the measured stable isotope composition in precipitation (δ18Op) and daily precipitation from January 2010 to December 2021 in Changsha of the subtropical monsoon region of eastern China, the δ18Op variations, amount effect and local meteoric water line (LMWL) were analyzed and compared on daily, monthly and annual time scales, as well as under different precipitation intensities. The results showed that, on the daily time scale, δ18Op was significantly and negatively correlated with precipitation in the study area. Influenced by subcloud evaporation, small precipitation events (≤5 mm/d) could change the rainout level of precipitation isotopes. There were significant differences in the slope and intercept of the LMWL on different time scales, in different seasons and under different precipitation intensities. On the daily and monthly time scales, the slope and intercept of the LMWL in the cold half of the year were significantly smaller and larger than those in the warm half of the year, respectively, and the slope and intercept of the LMWL increased significantly with precipitation intensity, and then remained largely stable. On the annual time scale, the slope and intercept of the LMWL in the cold half of the year were smaller than those in the warm half of the year. The possible reasons for the differences in the LMWL on different time scales are the combined effects of seasonal differences in precipitation intensity and water vapor sources.
Publisher: American Geophysical Union (AGU)
Date: 03-2019
DOI: 10.1029/2018WR023954
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 20-06-2013
DOI: 10.1038/BJC.2013.310
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 09-2018
DOI: 10.1249/MSS.0000000000001644
Abstract: In the cancer survivorship context, physical activity and sedentary behavior have been measured using different methods. To conduct a narrative review of published research in cancer survivor populations to summarize the quality and identify gaps in reporting on accelerometer data collection, data processing, and outcome measures in cancer survivors. An initial PubMed® search of articles published in English was conducted in January 2017, and a final search was conducted in May 2017. Variables extracted included study characteristics, methods for accelerometry data collection (e.g., device used), data processing (e.g., cut points used), and data reporting (e.g., time spent in different activity intensities). A total of 46 articles were eligible for inclusion in the review. The majority of studies (34 of 46) targeted a single cancer group and 18 of these 34 studies were in survivors of breast cancer. Half (54%) of the studies used an ActiGraph® accelerometer. Methods of accelerometer data processing varied across studies. Definitions of non–wear time, vectors used during processing, and filters applied during processing were reported by 51%, 60%, and 8% of studies, respectively. Most studies reported moderate and vigorous physical activity (78%), 50% reported sedentary time, and 43% reported light-intensity activity. Cut points to categorize these activities varied between studies. This narrative review highlights inconsistency in the methods used to collect, process, and report accelerometry data across cancer survivor studies. Accelerometry has potential to add detailed knowledge of the levels and patterns of physical activities and sedentary behaviors across the cancer spectrum. Recommendations are made to improve data processing and reporting methods to maximize the scientific validity of future accelerometer research in this field.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 25-02-2014
DOI: 10.1038/BJC.2014.106
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2015
Publisher: American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing
Date: 08-2015
Abstract: Pulse density, the number of laser pulses that intercept a surface per unit area, is a key consideration when acquiring an Airborne Laser Scanning (ALS) dataset. This study compares area-based vegetation structure metrics derived from multi-return ALS simulated at six pulse densities (0.05 to 4 pl m -2 ) across a range of forest types: from savannah woodlands to dense rainforests. Results suggest that accurate measurement of structure metrics (canopy height, canopy cover, and vertical canopy structure) can be achieved with a pulse density of 0.5 pl m -2 across all forest types when compared to a dataset of 10 pl m -2 . For pulse densities .5 pl m -2 , two main sources of error lead to inaccuracies in estimation: the poor identification of the ground surface and sparse vegetation cover leading to under s ling of the canopy profile. This analysis provides useful information for land managers determining capture specifications for large-area ALS acquisitions.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 23-03-2023
DOI: 10.1007/S11764-022-01189-W
Abstract: Circadian rhythms control a wide range of physiological processes and may be associated with fatigue, depression, and sleep problems. We aimed to identify subgroups of breast cancer survivors based on symptoms of fatigue, insomnia, and depression and assess whether circadian parameters (i.e., chronotype, litude, and stability) were associated with these subgroups over time. Among breast cancer survivors, usual circadian parameters were assessed at 3–4 months after diagnosis (T0), and symptoms of fatigue, depression, and insomnia were assessed after 2–3 years (T1, N = 265) and 6–8 years (T2, N = 169). We applied latent class analysis to classify survivors in unobserved groups (“classes”) based on symptoms at T1. The impact of each of the circadian parameters on class allocation was assessed using multinomial logistic regression analysis, and changes in class allocation from T1 to T2 using latent transition models. We identified 3 latent classes of symptom burden: low (38%), moderate (41%), and high (21%). Survivors with a late chronotype (“evening types”) or low circadian litude (“languid types”) were more likely to have moderate or high symptom burden compared to “morning types” and “vigorous types,” respectively. The majority of survivors with moderate (59%) or high (64%) symptom burden at T1 had persistent symptom burden at T2. A late chronotype and lower circadian litude after breast cancer diagnosis were associated with greater symptoms of fatigue, depression, and insomnia at follow-up. These circadian parameters may potentially be novel targets in interventions aimed at alleviating symptom burden among breast cancer survivors.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.AMEPRE.2022.03.020
Abstract: This study aimed to systematically review and meta-analyze the relationship between resistance training and all-cause, cardiovascular disease, and cancer mortality. Systematic review and meta-analysis following PRISMA guidelines (International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews Registration Number CRD42019136654) was conducted. MEDLINE (OVID), Embase, Emcare, SPORTDiscus, The Cochrane Library, and SCOPUS were searched from inception to June 6, 2021. Included studies reported resistance training as the exposure and all-cause mortality, cardiovascular disease‒specific mortality, and/or cancer-specific mortality as outcome/s. Only studies conducted among nonclinical adult populations (aged ≥18 years) and written in English were included. A total of 10 studies were included in the meta-analyses. Compared with undertaking no resistance training, undertaking any amount of resistance training reduced the risk of all-cause mortality by 15% (RR of 6 studies=0.85 95% CI=0.77, 0.93), cardiovascular disease mortality by 19% (RR of 4 studies=0.81 95% CI=0.66, 1.00), and cancer mortality by 14% (RR of 5 studies=0.86 95% CI=0.78, 0.95). A dose-response meta-analysis of 4 studies suggested a nonlinear relationship between resistance training and the risk of all-cause mortality. A maximum risk reduction of 27% was observed at around 60 minutes per week of resistance training (RR=0.74 95% CI=0.64, 0.86). Mortality risk reductions diminished at higher volumes. This systematic review and meta-analysis provides the strongest evidence to date that resistance training is associated with reduced risk of all-cause, cardiovascular disease, and cancer-specific mortality. More research is needed to determine whether any potential mortality benefits gained from resistance training diminish at higher volumes.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 27-07-2023
Abstract: Workplace health and safety (WHS) is an important responsibility falling on both employers and employees and is most effective when the perspectives of all stakeholders are considered. This study aimed to explore the facilitators and barriers to a voluntary workplace lung function surveillance program from the perspective of urban firefighters and describe their perceptions of its value. Using a qualitative, descriptive methodology, firefighters who had participated in a longitudinal lung function surveillance study were invited to participate in semi-structured interviews. Purposeful, maximum variation s ling was used to achieve ersity in those firefighters invited to participate. We used inductive content analysis to identify themes. Interviews with 15 firefighters identified 3 main themes: (i) practical experience of surveillance (administration, communication, workplace culture change, convenience, acceptability, and appeal) (ii) value of surveillance (lung health efficacy and control, social support, workplace management support/motivations, contribution to global firefighter health) and (iii) contribution of surveillance to health (occupational risk, relevance in the context of total health, workability, and fitness and future value). Practical and psychosocial facilitators and barriers to providing lung function surveillance in the fire service were identified. In addition to the personal benefits of detecting adverse lung health and allowing for medical intervention, factors known to positively influence firefighter workplace wellbeing, such as providing peace of mind, feedback on good work practices, motivation to utilize control measures, management commitment to health, and providing data to assist with global knowledge were valued aspects of longitudinal lung function surveillance.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2023
DOI: 10.1016/J.METABOL.2022.155342
Abstract: Analyses to predict the risk of cancer typically focus on single biomarkers, which do not capture their complex interrelations. We hypothesized that the use of metabolic profiles may provide new insights into cancer prediction. We used information from 290,888 UK Biobank participants aged 37 to 73 years at baseline. Metabolic subgroups were defined based on clustering of biochemical data using an artificial neural network approach and examined for their association with incident cancers identified through linkage to cancer registry. In addition, we evaluated associations between 38 in idual biomarkers and cancer risk. In total, 21,973 in iduals developed cancer during the follow-up (median 3.87 years, interquartile range [IQR] = 2.03-5.58). Compared to the metabolically favorable subgroup (IV), subgroup III (defined as "high BMI, C-reactive protein & cystatin C") was associated with a higher risk of obesity-related cancers (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.26, 95 % CI = 1.21 to 1.32) and hematologic-malignancies (e.g., lymphoid leukemia: HR = 1.83, 95%CI = 1.44 to 2.33). Subgroup II ("high triglycerides & liver enzymes") was strongly associated with liver cancer risk (HR = 5.70, 95%CI = 3.57 to 9.11). Analysis of in idual biomarkers showed a positive association between testosterone and greater risks of hormone-sensitive cancers (HR per SD higher = 1.32, 95%CI = 1.23 to 1.44), and liver cancer (HR = 2.49, 95%CI =1.47 to 4.24). Many liver tests were in idually associated with a greater risk of liver cancer with the strongest association observed for gamma-glutamyl transferase (HR = 2.40, 95%CI = 2.19 to 2.65). Metabolic profile in middle-to-older age can predict cancer incidence, in particular risk of obesity-related cancer, hematologic malignancies, and liver cancer. Elevated values from liver tests are strong predictors for later risk of liver cancer.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 27-12-2012
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 08-09-2022
DOI: 10.1002/IJC.34266
Abstract: Non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is composed of a heterogeneous collection of subtypes with considerable differences in genetics, biology and aetiology. Studies to date on physical activity and NHL risk have not had sufficient s le size to evaluate whether associations differ by subtype. We pooled data from nine case‐control studies to examine the association between moderate‐to‐vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) and risk of NHL overall and by subtype (diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma, follicular lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukaemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma, marginal zone lymphoma and mature T‐cell lymphoma). A total of 5653 cases and 9115 controls were included in the pooled analysis. Physical activity was harmonised across nine studies and modelled as study‐specific tertiles. Multinomial logistic regression was used to estimate the association between physical activity and NHL, adjusting for confounders. The overall odds of NHL was 13% lower among participants in the most active tertile of MVPA compared to the least active tertile (adjusted odds ratio = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.80, 0.95). Similar decreases were observed across NHL subtypes. In summary, in this pooled analysis of case‐control studies, physical activity was associated with a modest risk reduction for each NHL subtype examined and with overall NHL.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 05-05-2012
DOI: 10.1007/S10552-012-9978-X
Abstract: Although there is convincing evidence that physical activity reduces colon cancer risk, research in this area has focused on aerobic activity. We conducted a case-control study to investigate whether resistance training was associated with the risk of colon and rectal cancers. Data were collected on various colorectal cancer risk factors, including recreational physical activity performed during three age periods, from 870 cases and 996 controls in Western Australia in 2005-2007. Participants were classified as having never, possibly, or definitely performed resistance training in each age period and over the adult lifetime. The association between resistance training and colon and rectal cancer risk was analyzed using multinomial logistic regression. Participants who definitely performed resistance training in their lifetime had a non-significant reduced risk of colon cancer compared with those who did no resistance training (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 0.70, 95 % confidence interval (CI) = 0.45-1.11). No association was found for rectal cancer risk (AOR = 1.16, 95 % CI = 0.71-1.87). Performing resistance training was associated with a lower risk of colon cancer in each age period, although none of the relationships were statistically significant. This study provides some initial evidence, albeit inconclusive, that resistance training may be inversely associated with colon cancer risk.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 27-04-2022
DOI: 10.3390/RS14092096
Abstract: Forest structure is an important variable in ecology, fire behaviour, and carbon management. New spaceborne lidar sensors, such as the Global Ecosystem Dynamics Investigation (GEDI), enable forest structure to be mapped at a global scale. Virtual GEDI-like observations can be derived from airborne laser scanning (ALS) data for given locations using the GEDI simulator, which was a tool initially developed for GEDI’s pre-launch calibration. This study compares the relative height (RH) and ground elevation metrics of real and simulated GEDI observations against ALS-derived benchmarks in southeast Australia. A total of 15,616 footprint locations were examined, covering a large range of forest types and topographic conditions. The impacts of canopy cover and height, terrain slope, and ALS point cloud density were assessed. The results indicate that the simulator produces more accurate canopy height (RH95) metrics (RMSE: 4.2 m, Bias: −1.3 m) than the actual GEDI sensor (RMSE: 9.6 m, Bias: −1.6 m). Similarly, the simulator outperforms GEDI in ground detection accuracy. In contrast to other studies, which favour the Gaussian algorithm for ground detection, we found that the Maximum algorithm performed better in most settings. Despite the determined differences between real and simulated GEDI observations, this study indicates the compatibility of both data sources, which may enable their combined use in multitemporal forest structure monitoring.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 03-09-2020
DOI: 10.1186/S12966-020-01008-4
Abstract: Prolonged sitting time is a risk factor for chronic disease, yet recent global surveillance is not well described. The aims were to clarify: (i) the countries that have collected country-level data on self-reported sitting time (ii) the single-item tools used to collect these data and (iii) the duration of sitting time reported across low- to high-income countries. Country-level data collected within the last 10 years using single-item self-report were included. The six-stage methodology: (1) reviewing Global Observatory for Physical Activity! Country Cards (2–4) country-specific searches of PubMed, the Demographic and Health Survey website and Google (5) analysing the Eurobarometer 88.4 and (6) country-specific searches for World Health Organization STEPwise reports. A total of 7641 records were identified and screened for eligibility. Sixty-two countries (29%) reported sitting time representing 47% of the global adult population. The majority of data were from high-income (61%) and middle income (29%) countries. The tools used were the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ n = 34), a modified IPAQ ( n = 1) or the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ n = 27). The median of mean daily sitting times was 4.7 (IQR: 3.5–5.1) hours across all countries. Higher-income countries recorded a longer duration of sitting time than lower-income countries (4.9 vs 2.7 h). This study provides an updated collation of countries collecting self-reported sitting time data. The daily sitting time findings should be interpreted cautiously. Current surveillance of sitting time is limited by a lack of coverage. Measures of population sitting time that are valid, feasible and sensitive to change should be embedded within global surveillance systems, to help guide future policy, research and practice. Not applicable.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 16-11-2022
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 11-11-2015
DOI: 10.1002/PON.4027
Abstract: Few studies have measured the physical activity levels of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) survivors, and no previous studies have measured sedentary behavior levels in this population. This study used accelerometers to measure the physical activity and sedentary time levels of NHL survivors and examined the demographic, behavioral, and medical correlates of these behaviors. A total of 156 NHL survivors (mean age = 64 years) completed a questionnaire and wore an accelerometer for seven consecutive days during waking hours. Descriptive statistics were used to describe physical activity and sedentary time levels, and linear regression was used to investigate correlates of these behaviors. Participants averaged 8.6 h of sedentary time per day (60% of their accelerometer wear time), 5.3 h of light-intensity physical activity (37%), and 30 min of moderate-intensity physical activity (3%). Only 12% of the participants accrued the duration of moderate-vigorous physical activity recommended by physical activity guidelines (30 min accrued in bouts of at least 10 min). Female participants, older participants, smokers, and participants with larger waist circumference had lower levels of moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity. Smokers and participants with larger waist circumference also had higher sedentary time levels. The NHL survivors in this study spent the majority of their waking hours sedentary, and few met physical activity guidelines. The results of this study emphasize the need for more research exploring the health consequences of sedentary behavior and physical inactivity in NHL survivors. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 16-08-2019
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2018
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2019
Abstract: Physical activity is recommended for kidney transplant recipents as it may improve outcomes including mortality, exercise capacity, muscle strength, and health-related quality of life. The objective of this study was to examine accelerometer-based physical activity and sedentary time profiles among kidney transplant recipients and examine possible demographic and clinical correlates of physical activity and sedentary time. Cross-sectional. Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Kidney transplant recipients were recruited (N = 1,284) from the Northern Alberta Renal Program’s Nephrology Information System database (1993-2016). Participants wore an ActiGraph GT3X+ accelerometer on their hip during waking hours for seven consecutive days. Kidney transplant recipients (1993-2016) recruited from the Northern Alberta Renal Program’s Nephrology Information System database wore an accelerometer and completed a self-reported questionnaire. Multiple linear regression was used to determine associations between activity level, demographic, and clinical characteristics. Participants’ (n = 133 11% response rate) mean age (SD) was 58 (14) years and 56% were female. Mean total sedentary time was 9.4 (1.4) hours per day total moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) time was 20.7 (19.6) minutes per day. MVPA was significantly associated with age where each additional year was associated with 0.48 fewer min/day (ie, ~30 seconds) (unstandardized beta: B = −0.48 min/day, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: −0.75, −0.22). Sedentary time was significantly associated with age ( B = 1.0 min/day, 95% CI: 0.03, 1.9), body mass index ( B = 2.7 min/day, 95% CI: 0.2, 5.13), education ( B = 39.1 min/day, 95% CI: 12.3, −65.8), and inversely associated with income ( B = −44.9 min/day, 95% CI: −73.1, −16.8). Limitations include the cross-sectional design, poor response rate, and limited generalizability of the results. Kidney transplant recipients showed high volumes of sedentary time and low volumes of health-enhancing physical activity. Understanding correlates of these behaviors may aid in the development of interventions to favorably change these behaviors.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2015
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 04-10-2022
DOI: 10.3390/JCM11195870
Abstract: This study aimed to examine sedentary behaviour (SB), physical activity (PA) and their associations with health-related measures at the time of diagnosis in people with inoperable lung cancer. People newly diagnosed with inoperable lung cancer were invited to participate in the study and asked to wear an accelerometer for seven consecutive days. Variables analysed included time spent in SB, light intensity PA (LIPA) and moderate-to-vigorous intensity PA (MVPA). Daily steps were also recorded. Data on symptoms, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), hand grip force, comorbidities and lung function were collected. Of the 120 patients referred to the study, 89 (74%) consented to participate, and SB/PA data were available for 79 (age 71 ± 11 years 29 females). Participants spent 71% of their waking time in SB, 28% in LIPA and 1% in MVPA. Regression models demonstrated that increased SB was associated with more symptoms of fatigue and dyspnoea (p ≤ 0.02 for both), poorer HRQoL (general health and physical component score p ≤ 0.02 for all) and lower hand grip force. For PA variables, higher daily step count was associated with better scores in all health-related measures (p 0.05 for all). LIPA was associated with more health-related outcomes than MVPA. These findings may guide future interventions in this population.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 30-01-2022
DOI: 10.1111/AJCO.13656
Abstract: Nonadherence to oral chemotherapy (OC) can lead to health complications, including premature death. Mobile phones are increasingly used to deliver medication adherence interventions. However, there is limited evidence about mobile phone-based interventions to increase adherence to OC, specifically. This study explores the proof-of-concept of a smartphone program to support adherence to OC in people with cancer. This was a 10-week, nonrandomized, multisite trial. The outcomes assessed were acceptability, satisfaction with the intervention, adherence to OC, knowledge about OC, and side-effects presence and severity. The program consisted of short message service (SMS) reminders to take OC, as well as information about OC, including the management of side-effects. Twenty-two participants (17-74 y/o, median age 60 y/o) were recruited at six hospitals. The s le included 10 different cancer diagnoses (predominance of breast cancer) and 11 OC medications. Acceptability of the intervention was high, with 95% of the enrolled participants completing postintervention measures, and 81% reporting high satisfaction with the program. The intervention was found to have no effect on supporting adherence to OC (assessed by self-report and medication event monitoring system) in this s le. An increase in knowledge about OC was observed at postintervention (p = 0.010). This study demonstrated proof-of-concept of the smartphone program and highlighted the need for intervention and trial design-related refinements. Future work should evaluate the effect of the program on adherence to OC with nonadherent patients.
Publisher: PeerJ
Date: 07-07-2021
DOI: 10.7717/PEERJ.11554
Abstract: Blood flow restricted exercise (BFRE) improves physical fitness, with theorized positive effects on vascular function. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to report (1) the effects of BFRE on vascular function in adults with or without chronic health conditions, and (2) adverse events and adherence reported for BFRE. Five electronic databases were searched by two researchers independently to identify studies reporting vascular outcomes following BFRE in adults with and without chronic conditions. When sufficient data were provided, meta-analysis and exploratory meta-regression were performed. Twenty-six studies were included in the review (total participants n = 472 n = 41 older adults with chronic conditions). Meta-analysis (k = 9 studies) indicated that compared to exercise without blood flow restriction, resistance training with blood flow restriction resulted in significantly greater effects on endothelial function (SMD 0.76 95% CI [0.36–1.14]). No significant differences were estimated for changes in vascular structure (SMD −0.24 95% CI [−1.08 to 0.59]). In exploratory meta-regression analyses, several experimental protocol factors (design, exercise modality, exercised limbs, intervention length and number of sets per exercise) were significantly associated with the effect size for endothelial function outcomes. Adverse events in BFRE studies were rarely reported. There is limited evidence, predominantly available in healthy young adults, on the effect of BFRE on vascular function. Signals pointing to effect of specific dynamic resistance exercise protocols with blood flow restriction (≥4 weeks with exercises for the upper and lower limbs) on endothelial function warrant further investigation.
Publisher: American Geophysical Union (AGU)
Date: 27-07-2019
DOI: 10.1029/2019JD030324
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 18-01-2023
DOI: 10.1093/IJE/DYAC238
Abstract: Genetic and lifestyle factors are associated with cancer risk. We investigated the benefits of adhering to lifestyle advice by the World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) with the risk of 13 types of cancer and whether these associations differ according to genetic risk using data from the UK Biobank. In 2006–2010, participants aged 37–73 years had their lifestyle assessed and were followed up for incident cancers until 2015–2019. Analyses were restricted to those of White European ancestry with no prior history of malignant cancer (n = 195 822). Polygenic risk scores (PRSs) were computed for 13 cancer types and these cancers combined (‘overall cancer’), and a lifestyle index was calculated from WCRF recommendations. Associations with cancer incidence were estimated using Cox regression, adjusting for relevant confounders. Additive and multiplicative interactions between lifestyle index and PRSs were assessed. There were 15 240 incident cancers during the 1 926 987 person-years of follow-up (median follow-up = 10.2 years). After adjusting for confounders, the lifestyle index was associated with a lower risk of overall cancer [hazard ratio per standard deviation increase (95% CI) = 0.89 (0.87, 0.90)] and of eight specific cancer types. There was no evidence of interactions on the multiplicative scale. There was evidence of additive interactions in risks for colorectal, breast, pancreatic, lung and bladder cancers, such that the recommended lifestyle was associated with greater change in absolute risk for persons at higher genetic risk (P & 0.0003 for all). The recommended lifestyle has beneficial associations with most cancers. In terms of absolute risk, the protective association is greater for higher genetic risk groups for some cancers. These findings have important implications for persons most genetically predisposed to those cancers and for targeted strategies for cancer prevention.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 09-2021
Abstract: It is unknown whether relationships between lifestyle and cancer differ by genetic risk. We investigated this for 13 cancer types using prospective data from the UK Biobank. In 2006-2010, participants aged 37-73 years completed an assessment and provided biological s les. Those of European ancestry with no history of malignant cancer were included in our analysis (n = 196,485). For each in idual, a healthy lifestyle index (HLI) was calculated based on recommendations, and polygenic risk scores (PRSs) were computed for 13 cancer types. Relationships with cancer incidence were assessed by cox regression, adjusting for age, sex, assessment centre, birth location, and measures of socioeconomic status. Interactions between the HLI and PRSs were explored. For all cancer outcomes, a high genetic risk was associated with an increased cancer risk, or there was a trend in that direction. Those in the top PRS tertile had a greater than 2-fold increased risk of colorectal cancer (HR[95%CI]=2.18[1.90,2.49]), pancreatic cancer (2.39[1.71,3.32]) and lymphocytic leukemia (2.45[1.67,3.59]). An unhealthy lifestyle was associated with a higher cancer risk for 8 cancer types, with strong relationships observed for lung (3.41[2.76,4.20]), pancreatic (2.06[1.47,2.91]), bladder (1.95[1.43,2.66]) and kidney cancers (1.90[1.43,2.54]). No interactions between HLI and PRSs were detected (all interaction p-values& .10). Associations between lifestyle and cancer incidence did not differ by genetic risk. A healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of several cancers, even in those who are genetically predisposed to develop cancer.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 11-10-2015
DOI: 10.1007/S00520-014-2453-3
Abstract: Research conducted on the general population indicates self-reported measures of physical activity and sedentary behaviour are inaccurate when compared with objective measures however, it is not clear if this also applies to cancer survivors. In this study, we compared accelerometer-based and self-reported measures of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA) and sedentary time among colon cancer survivors. A total of 176 colon cancer survivors, recruited from the Western Australia and Alberta cancer registries, wore an Actigraph GT3X+ accelerometer for 7 days and completed self-reported questions about recent MVPA (Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire) and usual sedentary time (Marshall Domain-Specific Sitting Questionnaire). Accelerometer data were processed using 60-s epochs and summarized using Freedson's cut points. Spearman's rho and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were used to assess correlation and agreement for daily MVPA and sedentary time estimates from the two methods. Total mean minutes per day spent in MVPA was 12 min based on accelerometer data and 26 min based on self-reported data (P Difference < 0.01). Correlation between the methods was fair (rho = 0.51) however, agreement was poor (ICC = 0.33). Mean daily time spent sedentary was similar in both methods (∼8.5 h) however, both correlation and agreement were poor (rho = 0.19, ICC = 0.16). We found fair correlation but poor agreement between the self-reported and accelerometer-based assessments of MVPA used in this study. For sedentary time, both correlation and agreement between the two methods were poor. Studies of colon cancer survivors using these self-report measures are likely to have a considerable amount of exposure misclassification.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 09-06-2016
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 2020
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 09-2021
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 14-02-2017
DOI: 10.1007/S00277-017-2942-9
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to examine potential effects of reallocating time between sleep, sedentary and active behaviours on fatigue symptoms and quality of life in a s le of non-Hodgkin lymphoma survivors. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma survivors identified from the Western Australian Cancer Registry (N = 149) (response rate = 36% median age = 64 years) wore an Actigraph® GT3X+ accelerometer for 7 days and completed the Fatigue Scale, the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. We used isotemporal substitution methods in linear regression models to examine the potential effects of reallocating time between sleep, sedentary and activity behaviours on fatigue and quality of life. Data collection was conducted in Western Australia in 2013. Significant differences were observed for fatigue symptoms when 30 min per day of bouted moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (10 min) was reallocated from 30 min per day of sleep (5.7 points, 95% CI = 1.8, 9.7), sedentary time bouts (20 min) (5.7 points, 95% CI = 1.6, 9.7), sedentary time non-bouts (5.1 points, 95% CI = 1.0, 9.3) or light intensity activity (5.5 points, 95% CI = 1.5, 9.5). Isotemporal substitution effects of reallocating sedentary time, sleep and light physical activity with bouted physical activity was significantly associated with fatigue, but not quality of life. Findings from the present study may aid in the development and delivery of health behaviour interventions that are more likely to influence the health outcome of interest.
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 2020
Abstract: Background : It is not always clear whether physical activity is causally related to health outcomes, or whether the associations are induced through confounding or other biases. Randomized controlled trials of physical activity are not feasible when outcomes of interest are rare or develop over many years. Thus, we need methods to improve causal inference in observational physical activity studies. Methods : We outline a range of approaches that can improve causal inference in observational physical activity research, and also discuss the impact of measurement error on results and methods to minimize this. Results : Key concepts and methods described include directed acyclic graphs, quantitative bias analysis, Mendelian randomization, and potential outcomes approaches which include propensity scores, g methods, and causal mediation. Conclusions : We provide a brief overview of some contemporary epidemiological methods that are beginning to be used in physical activity research. Adoption of these methods will help build a stronger body of evidence for the health benefits of physical activity.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 11-2021
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 16-09-2011
DOI: 10.1007/S10552-011-9841-5
Abstract: Although there is convincing evidence that physical activity reduces colon cancer risk, there are important questions that remain unanswered about the association. These include the timing and intensity of activity required to optimally reduce risk, and whether physical activity has a different effect on cancers at different sites within the colon. We conducted a case-control study to investigate these issues. A case-control study of colorectal cancer was conducted in Western Australia in 2005-2007. Data were collected on various risk factors. The estimated effects of recreational physical activity on the risk of cancers of the distal colon, proximal colon, and rectum were analyzed using multinomial logistic regression. This analysis included 870 cases and 996 controls. The risk of distal colon cancer was reduced by performing a high level of vigorous-intensity activity between the ages 19 and 34 years (women), 35 and 50 years (men), after the age of 51 years (men and women), and consistently over the adult lifetime (men and women). The risk of rectal cancer was reduced by performing a high level of vigorous activity between the ages 35 and 50 years (men), and consistently over the adult lifetime (men). Proximal colon cancer risk was not associated with physical activity in any of the age periods or over the adult lifetime. Moderate intensity activity did not reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. Physical activity may have a greater effect on the risk of distal colon cancer than proximal colon cancer. Vigorous physical activity is required to reduce colorectal cancer risk.
Publisher: American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO)
Date: 04-2023
DOI: 10.1200/JCO.22.01978
Abstract: A polygenic risk score (PRS) consisting of 313 common genetic variants (PRS 313 ) is associated with risk of breast cancer and contralateral breast cancer. This study aimed to evaluate the association of the PRS 313 with clinicopathologic characteristics of, and survival following, breast cancer. Women with invasive breast cancer were included, 98,397 of European ancestry and 12,920 of Asian ancestry, from the Breast Cancer Association Consortium (BCAC), and 683 women from the European MINDACT trial. Associations between PRS 313 and clinicopathologic characteristics, including the 70-gene signature for MINDACT, were evaluated using logistic regression analyses. Associations of PRS 313 (continuous, per standard deviation) with overall survival (OS) and breast cancer–specific survival (BCSS) were evaluated with Cox regression, adjusted for clinicopathologic characteristics and treatment. The PRS 313 was associated with more favorable tumor characteristics. In BCAC, increasing PRS 313 was associated with lower grade, hormone receptor–positive status, and smaller tumor size. In MINDACT, PRS 313 was associated with a low risk 70-gene signature. In European women from BCAC, higher PRS 313 was associated with better OS and BCSS: hazard ratio (HR) 0.96 (95% CI, 0.94 to 0.97) and 0.96 (95% CI, 0.94 to 0.98), but the association disappeared after adjustment for clinicopathologic characteristics (and treatment): OS HR, 1.01 (95% CI, 0.98 to 1.05) and BCSS HR, 1.02 (95% CI, 0.98 to 1.07). The results in MINDACT and Asian women from BCAC were consistent. An increased PRS 313 is associated with favorable tumor characteristics, but is not independently associated with prognosis. Thus, PRS 313 has no role in the clinical management of primary breast cancer at the time of diagnosis. Nevertheless, breast cancer mortality rates will be higher for women with higher PRS 313 as increasing PRS 313 is associated with an increased risk of disease. This information is crucial for modeling effective stratified screening programs.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 05-03-2019
DOI: 10.1002/RSE2.113
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 05-03-2012
Abstract: Despite the convincing evidence that physical activity reduces the risk of colon cancer, there are some aspects of the association that remain unclear. These include the appropriate timeframe of exposure, whether the intensity of physical activity matters, and whether sedentary behavior is a distinct risk factor. This review summarized the research that has investigated these issues. In terms of timing, physical activity at any age (with the exception of physical activity performed up to and including the late teens) has been shown to be associated with a significantly reduced risk of colon cancer. Physical activity performed between 30 and 50 years of age, as well as long-term or lifetime physical activity, has been most consistently shown to reduce risk. For intensity, research to date suggests that more intense activity (particularly vigorous activity) may be associated with a greater reduction in the risk of colon cancer for males but not for females. Finally, most of the studies that have investigated the effect of sedentary behavior on the risk of colon or colorectal cancer have shown an increased risk, suggesting that sedentary behavior may be a distinct risk factor for colon cancer.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 07-2015
DOI: 10.1007/S10549-015-3489-X
Abstract: To investigate the association between different types of physical activity (PA) and breast cancer. A case-control study of breast cancer was conducted in Western Australia from 2009 to 2011, in which 1205 women with breast cancer and 1789 frequency age-matched breast cancer-free control women were recruited. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect information about lifetime and age-period recreational, household, occupational and transport physical activities. Detailed questions about demographic characteristics, and relevant reproductive, medical and lifestyle factors were also included. Logistic regression and restrictive cubic spline analyses were applied to investigate the association and dose-response relationship between PA and breast cancer risk. Subgroup analysis was performed regarding menopausal status. We found non-linear dose-response associations between PA and risk of breast cancer. Overall, 95-130 MET-hours/week of total lifetime PA was associated with the lowest breast cancer risk. The effects were stronger among post-menopausal women. We also found that the medium amounts of recreational PA (up to 21 MET-hours/week) were associated with lower breast cancer risk among post-menopausal women. Further analysis on the intensity of recreational PA demonstrated different dose-response associations between moderate- and vigorous-intensity recreational PA and breast cancer risk. We found that PA was associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer among post-menopausal women, but not in a linear fashion. Recreational PA of different intensities may have different dose-response associations with risk of breast cancer.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 03-2011
Publisher: American Association for Cancer Research (AACR)
Date: 30-04-2015
DOI: 10.1158/1055-9965.EPI-14-1303
Abstract: Research regarding the association between physical activity and the risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is limited and inconsistent, and few studies have investigated whether the intensity and timing of physical activity influence the association. A case–control study of NHL was conducted in British Columbia, Canada, in 2000 to 2004. Data were collected on various NHL risk factors, including moderate-intensity and vigorous-intensity physical activity performed over the lifetime. Logistic regression was used to estimate the association between physical activity and the risk of NHL. This analysis included 818 controls and 749 cases. Lifetime vigorous-intensity physical activity was inversely associated with NHL risk. Participants in the second, third, and fourth quartiles of lifetime vigorous-intensity physical activity had an approximately 25% to 30% lower risk of NHL than those in the lowest quartile [adjusted odds ratios, 0.69 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.52–0.93) 0.68 (95% CI, 0.50–0.92) and 0.75 (95% CI, 0.55–1.01), respectively]. No consistent associations were observed for total or moderate-intensity physical activity. There were no apparent age periods in which physical activity appeared to confer a greater risk reduction. In this study, we found that lifetime vigorous-intensity physical activity was associated with a significantly reduced risk of NHL. Given this finding, more research on physical activity intensity and timing in relation to NHL risk is warranted. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 24(5) 873–7. ©2015 AACR.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 27-05-2023
DOI: 10.3390/IJGI12060219
Abstract: The effective extraction of impervious surfaces is critical to monitor their expansion and ensure the sustainable development of cities. Open geographic data can provide a large number of training s les for machine learning methods based on remote-sensed images to extract impervious surfaces due to their advantages of low acquisition cost and large coverage. However, training s les generated from open geographic data suffer from severe s le imbalance. Although one-class methods can effectively extract an impervious surface based on imbalanced s les, most of the current one-class methods ignore the fact that an impervious surface comprises varied geographic objects, such as roads and buildings. Therefore, this paper proposes an object-oriented deep multi-sphere support vector data description (OODMSVDD) method, which takes into account the ersity of impervious surfaces and incorporates a variety of open geographic data involving OpenStreetMap (OSM), Points of Interest (POIs), and trajectory GPS points to automatically generate massive s les for model learning, thereby improving the extraction of impervious surfaces with varied types. The feasibility of the proposed method is experimentally verified with an overall accuracy of 87.43%, and its superior impervious surface classification performance is shown via comparative experiments. This provides a new, accurate, and more suitable extraction method for complex impervious surfaces.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 05-2019
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2018-028369
Abstract: Physically active cancer survivors have substantially less cancer recurrence and improved survival compared with those who are inactive. However, the majority of survivors (70%–90%) are not meeting the physical activity (PA) guidelines. There are also significant geographic inequalities in cancer survival with poorer survival rates for the third of Australians who live in non-metropolitan areas compared with those living in major cities. The primary objective of the trial is to increase moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) among cancer survivors living in regional and remote Western Australia. Secondary objectives are to reduce sedentary behaviour and in conjunction with increased PA, improve quality of life (QoL) in non-metropolitan survivors. Tertiary objectives are to assess the effectiveness of the health action process approach (HAPA) model variables, on which the intervention is based, to predict change in MVPA. Eighty-six cancer survivors will be randomised into either the intervention or control group. Intervention group participants will receive a Fitbit and up to six telephone health-coaching sessions. MVPA (using Actigraph), QoL and psychological variables (based on the HAPA model via questionnaire) will be assessed at baseline, 12 weeks (end of intervention) and 24 weeks (end of follow-up). A general linear mixed model will be used to assess the effectiveness of the intervention. Ethics approval has been obtained from St John of God Hospital Subiaco (HREC/#1201). We plan to submit a manuscript of the results to a peer-reviewed journal. Results will be presented at conferences, community and consumer forums and hospital research conferences. ACTRN12618001743257 pre-results, U1111-1222-5698
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 30-10-2016
DOI: 10.1007/S10552-015-0683-4
Abstract: Understanding of the physical activity and sedentary behavior of cancer survivors is limited by reliance on self-reported data. Here, we report the correlates, and patterns of accumulation, of physical activity (light, and moderate-vigorous MVPA) and sedentary behavior, in colon cancer survivors, using accelerometer-based assessments. Colon cancer survivors from Alberta, Canada (n = 92), and Western Australia (n = 93) (overall response rate = 21 %) wore an Actigraph(®) GT3X+ accelerometer for seven consecutive days and completed a questionnaire in 2012-2013. Accelerometer data (60 s epochs) were summarized using Freedson activity cutpoints and were adjusted for wear time. Linear regression analyses, conducted 2014-2015, examined correlates for different intensities of activity. Younger age, being employed, higher family income, and lower BMI were significantly correlated with MVPA, while gender, educational attainment, and BMI were correlated with light-intensity physical activity. Gender, comorbidities, and BMI were correlated with sedentary time. MVPA did not vary by day of the week, whereas the remaining time (as a sedentary/light ratio) showed significant variation, with Saturdays being less sedentary than average [corrected]. When considering time of day, we found that evenings were when the likelihood of both MVPA and sedentary time was highest. The low level of MVPA and high volume of sedentary time demonstrated by these objective data highlight the need for intervention in colon cancer survivors. The correlates and accumulation patterns described by this study may better inform interventions and translational research designed to increase physical activity and reduce sedentary behavior in colon cancer survivors.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-11-2015
DOI: 10.1007/S00520-015-3011-3
Abstract: Physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior may influence the physical and mental health of breast cancer survivors however, few studies have objectively measured these behaviors in this population. We used accelerometers to measure the PA and sedentary time levels of breast cancer survivors and examined the demographic, behavioral, and medical correlates of these behaviors using two complementary approaches. A total of 259 breast cancer survivors wore an accelerometer for 7 days during waking hours and completed a questionnaire. We used linear regression and classification trees to investigate correlates of PA and sedentary time. The breast cancer survivors in this study (mean age = 61 years, mean time since diagnosis = 3 years) were sedentary for a daily average of 8.2 h, in light-intensity PA for 5.8 h and in moderate-to-vigorous intensity PA (MVPA) for 32 min, with 16 % meeting PA guidelines. Participants with high comorbidity were the least likely to be meeting guidelines (0 %), while a subgroup of participants with no/low comorbidity, a university degree, and higher levels of pre-diagnosis MVPA were the most likely to be meeting guidelines (47 %). Older participants (70+ years) were the most likely to have sedentary time levels at least twice as high as activity levels, while participants who were younger than 70 years and not in the lowest category of pre-diagnosis MVPA were the least likely. Interventions to facilitate physical activity and reduce sedentary time among breast cancer survivors should consider comorbidity status and previous PA experience.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 11-02-2021
Abstract: Fatigue is a frequent and debilitating symptom for people with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) receiving dialysis. Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) allows real-time data capture of day-to-day and diurnal variations. EMA has been used to study haemodialysis-related fatigue but not in people receiving peritoneal dialysis who are unique in their physical, environmental and logistical characteristics. The aim of this study is to explore the real-time associations between fatigue and mood (EMA mobile application) and objective physical activity levels (accelerometry) in people with EKSD receiving peritoneal dialysis. A 7-day intensive longitudinal study will be conducted. People receiving peritoneal dialysis within South Australia will be invited to participate. Five times throughout the day, participants will be prompted to answer 18 questions relating to fatigue (Visual Analogue Scale to Evaluate Fatigue Severity) and a single question for mood (Visual Analogue Mood Scale). Participants will continuously wear a GENEActiv accelerometer to capture physical activity levels during the 7-day period. At the completion of the data collection, participants will answer questions to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of using EMA. This study will be the first to explore the real-time relationships between fatigue, mood and physical activity in people with ESKD receiving peritoneal dialysis. Understanding the fluctuations people experience and the relationships between mood and physical activity and fatigue will inform clinical management and well-being intervention development.
Publisher: American Medical Association (AMA)
Date: 10-12-2021
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-05-2017
DOI: 10.1111/BJH.14702
Abstract: There is limited information concerning the impact of physical activity and obesity on non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) prognosis. We examined the associations between pre-diagnosis physical activity and body mass index (BMI) with survival in 238 diffuse large B-cell (DLBCL) and 175 follicular lymphoma cases, with follow-up from 2000 to 2015. The most physically active DLBCL cases had 41% lower risk of dying in the follow-up period than the least active [Hazard ratio (HR) = 0·59, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0·36-0·96], while obese follicular lymphoma cases had a 2·5-fold risk of dying (HR = 2·52, 95% CI = 1·27-5·00) compared with cases with normal BMI. NHL-specific survival results were similar.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 07-03-2015
DOI: 10.1007/S11764-014-0409-8
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to determine associations of objectively assessed moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) and sedentary time with psychological health outcomes including depression symptoms, anxiety symptoms, and overall satisfaction with life in colon cancer survivors. Colon cancer survivors (N = 180) from Alberta, Canada (n = 91), and Western Australia (n = 89) completed a mailed survey that assessed depression symptom severity, state anxiety, and satisfaction with life (SWL). Sedentary time and MVPA were assessed using the Actigraph(®) GT3X+ accelerometer (60-s epochs) via a 7-day monitoring protocol. MVPA and sedentary time were corrected for wear time and then examined as quartiles (Q). Multivariate analysis of variance was used to examine associations of MVPA and sedentary time with psychological health. There was a significant association between psychological health outcomes and objectively assessed MVPA [Wilks' λ = 0.886, F(3382.2) = 2.156, p = 0.024] that suggested a small and significant association between MVPA and SWL (p = 0.032). A significant multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) [Wilks' λ = 0.945, F(3159) = 3.1, p = 0.028] suggested participants meeting guidelines reported significantly fewer anxiety symptoms (M(diff) = -1.23, p = 0.027) and higher perceptions of SWL (M(diff) = 3.0, p = 0.008). No significant associations emerged for sedentary time [Wilks' λ = 0.956, F(9382.3) = 0.788, p = 0.628]. Contrary to previously published research using self-reports, objectively assessed MVPA and sedentary time were not associated with depression symptoms. Objectively assessed MVPA was associated with SWL and anxiety outcomes in colon cancer survivors. Colon cancer survivors should continue to engage in regular and sustained MVPA for the accrual of psychological health benefits.
Publisher: American Association for Cancer Research (AACR)
Date: 10-2020
DOI: 10.1158/1055-9965.EPI-20-0515
Abstract: Tattoos may cause a variety of adverse reactions in the body, including immune reactions and infections. However, it is unknown whether tattoos may increase the risk of lymphatic cancers such as non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) and multiple myeloma. Participants from two population-based case–control studies were included in logistic regression models to examine the association between tattoos and risk of NHL and multiple myeloma. A total of 1,518 participants from the NHL study (737 cases) and 742 participants from the multiple myeloma study (373 cases) were included in the analyses. No statistically significant associations were found between tattoos and risk of NHL or multiple myeloma after adjusting for age, sex, ethnicity, education, body mass index, and family history. We did not identify any significant associations between tattoos and risk of multiple myeloma, NHL, or NHL subtypes in these studies. Though biologically plausible, tattoos were not associated with increased risk of NHL or multiple myeloma in this study. Future studies with greater detail regarding tattoo exposure may provide further insights.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.MAYOCP.2016.12.015
Abstract: To assess differences in accelerometer-assessed moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA), light-intensity physical activity, and sedentary time between cancer survivors and adults without cancer. Accelerometer data collected from 241 breast cancer survivors (ACCEL-Breast study, 2013) and 171 colon cancer survivors (ACCEL-Colon study, 2012-2013) were pooled with data collected from adults without cancer (Australian Diabetes, Obesity and Lifestyle accelerometer substudy, 2011-2012). Linear regression was used to estimate differences in physical activity and sedentary behavior levels between cancer survivors and adults without cancer, adjusted for potential confounding factors. The mean MVPA was significantly higher among breast cancer survivors than among females who had not had cancer (29 vs 22 min/d P<.001). Colon cancer survivors had significantly lower levels of light activity than did adults without cancer (311 vs 338 min/d P<.001), more sedentary time (532 vs 507 min/d P=.003), and more prolonged sedentary time (210 vs 184 min/d P=.002). Contrary to findings from previous research (based on self-reported physical activity), cancer survivors engaged in more (breast) or equivalent (colon) MVPA compared with adults without cancer. Differences between colon cancer survivors and adults without cancer for light activity and sedentary behavior highlight the importance of considering the full activity spectrum in the context of cancer control.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 29-01-2021
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2021
DOI: 10.1177/14799731211056092
Abstract: This descriptive qualitative study explored perspectives of people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and health professionals concerning blood flow restricted exercise (BFRE) training. People living with COPD and health professionals (exercise physiologists, physiotherapists, and hospital-based respiratory nurses and doctors) participated in interviews or focus groups, which included information about BFRE training and a facilitated discussion of positive aspects, barriers and concerns about BFRE training as a possible exercise-based intervention. Sessions were audio-recorded, and transcript data analysed using inductive content analysis. Thirty-one people participated (people with COPD n = 6 health professionals n = 25). All participant groups expressed positive perceptions of BFRE as a potential alternative low-intensity exercise mode where health benefits might be achieved. Areas of overlap in perceived barriers and concerns included the need to address the risk of potential adverse events, suitability of training sites and identifying processes to appropriately screen potential candidates. While potential benefits were identified, concerns about determining who is safe and suitable to participate, delivery processes, health professional training and effects on a variety of health-related outcomes need to be addressed before implementation of BFRE training for people with COPD.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 05-11-2022
DOI: 10.1186/S12894-022-01117-1
Abstract: The aim of this study was to describe changes in patient-reported functional outcome measures (PROMs) comparing pre-treatment and 12 months after radical prostatectomy (RP), external beam radiation therapy (EBRT), brachytherapy and active surveillance (AS). Men enrolled from 2010 to 2019 in the South Australian Prostate Cancer Clinical Outcomes Collaborative registry a prospective clinical registry were studied. Urinary, bowel, and sexual functions were measured using Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite (EPIC-26) at baseline and 12 months post-treatment. Higher scores on the EPIC-26 indicate better function. Multivariable regression models were applied to compare differences in function and extent of bother by treatment. Of the 4926 eligible men, 57.0% underwent RP, 20.5% EBRT, 7.0% brachytherapy and 15.5% AS. While baseline urinary and bowel function varied little across treatment groups, sexual function differed greatly (adjusted mean scores: RP = 56.3, EBRT = 45.8, brachytherapy = 61.4, AS = 52.8 p 0.001). Post-treatment urinary continence and sexual function declined in all treatment groups, with the greatest decline for sexual function after RP (adjusted mean score change − 28.9). After adjustment for baseline differences, post-treatment sexual function scores after EBRT (6.4 95%CI, 0.9–12.0) and brachytherapy (17.4 95%CI, 9.4–25.5) were higher than after RP. Likewise, urinary continence after EBRT (13.6 95%CI, 9.0-18.2), brachytherapy (10.6 95%CI, 3.9–17.3) and AS (10.6 95%CI, 5.9–15.3) were higher than after RP. Conversely, EBRT was associated with lower bowel function (− 7.9 95%CI, − 12.4 to − 3.5) than RP. EBRT and AS were associated with lower odds of sexual bother (OR 0.51 95%CI, 0.29–0.89 and OR 0.60 95%CI, 0.38–0.96, respectively), and EBRT with higher odds of bowel bother (OR 2.01 95%CI, 1.23–3.29) compared with RP. The four common treatment approaches for prostate cancer were associated with different patterns of patient-reported functional outcomes, both pre- and 12 months post-treatment. However, after adjustment, RP was associated with a greater decline in urinary continence and sexual function than other treatments. This study underscores the importance of collecting baseline PROMs to interpret post-treatment functional outcomes.
Publisher: Japan Epidemiological Association
Date: 2014
Publisher: IEEE
Date: 07-2013
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2022
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 10-05-2021
DOI: 10.1002/JOC.6624
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 12-11-2021
DOI: 10.3390/RS13224548
Abstract: Marine plastic debris (MPD) is a globally relevant environmental challenge, with an estimated 8 million tons of synthetic debris entering the marine environment each year. Plastic has been found in all parts of the marine environment, including the surface layers of the ocean, within the water column, in coastal waters, on the benthic layer and on beaches. While research on detecting MPD using remote sensing is increasing, most of it focuses on detecting floating debris in open waters, rather than detecting MPD on beaches. However, beaches present challenges that are unique from other parts of the marine environment. In order to better understand the spectral properties of beached MPD, we present the SWIR reflectance of weathered MPD and virgin plastics over a sandy substrate. We conducted spectral feature analysis on the different plastic groups to better understand the impact that polymers have on our ability to detect synthetic debris at sub-pixel surface covers that occur on beaches. Our results show that the minimum surface cover required to detect MPD on a sandy surface varies between 2–8% for different polymer types. Furthermore, plastic composition affects the magnitude of spectral absorption. This suggests that variation in both surface cover and polymer type will inform the efficacy of beach litter detection methods.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.CTRV.2018.07.001
Abstract: While a number of studies indicate tobacco smoking has a detrimental impact on survival and recurrence after a prostate cancer diagnosis, there has been no quantitative review of this literature and it is unclear whether tobacco smoking affects clinical populations differentially. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the associations between tobacco smoking and overall (OM) and prostate cancer-specific (PSM) mortality and recurrence after a prostate cancer diagnosis. EMBASE and ISI Web of Science were searched for English-language studies, published up to August 17, 2017, which conducted a survival analysis to estimate the association between tobacco smoking and OM, PSM and/or recurrence. A random-effects meta-analysis was conducted to estimate the summary hazard ratios (HRs) for the associations between tobacco smoking and the three outcomes. A total of 28 studies met the inclusion criteria. The results of the primary meta-analysis indicate current smokers have significantly poorer overall survival (Summary HR = 1.96, 95% CI = 1.69, 2.28), prostate cancer-specific survival (Summary HR = 1.79, 95% CI = 1.47, 2.20) and recurrence-free survival (Summary HR = 1.48, 95% CI = 1.28, 1.72) than never smokers. Similar results were found in population-based studies and in studies conducted in specific clinical populations. The results of this systematic review and meta-analysis indicate that tobacco smoking at prostate cancer diagnosis is associated with a significantly increased risk of overall mortality, prostate-cancer specific mortality and recurrence. We recommend future studies collect more detailed information about tobacco smoking to further understanding of the association between tobacco smoking and PCa prognosis. In addition, further research should concentrate on the impact of smoking cessation post-diagnosis and post-treatment on prognosis, and the feasibility and effectiveness of smoking cessation programs.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2021
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2023
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 18-12-2016
Abstract: The vertical arrangement of forest canopies is a key descriptor of canopy structure, a driver of ecosystem function and indicative of forest successional stage. Yet techniques to attribute for canopy vertical structure across large and potentially heterogeneously forested areas remain elusive. This study introduces a new technique to estimate the Number of Strata ( NoS ) that comprise a canopy profile, using discrete‐return Airborne Laser Scanning (ALS) data. Vertically resolved gap probability ( P gap ) aggregated over a plot is generalized with a nonparametric cubic spline regression ( P s ). Subsequently a count of the positive zero‐crossings of second derivative of 1 − P s is used to estimate NoS . Comparison with inventory derived estimates at 24 plots across three erse study areas shows a good agreement between the two techniques (RMSE = 0·41 strata). Furthermore, this is achieved without altering model parameters, indicating the transferability of the technique across erse forest types. NoS values ranged from 0 to 4 at a further 239 plots, emphasizing the need for a method to quantify canopy vertical structure across forested landscapes. Comparison of NoS with other commonly derived ALS descriptors of canopy structure (canopy height, canopy cover and return height coefficient of determination) returned only a moderate correlation ( r 2 0·4). It is proposed the presented method provides a primary descriptor of canopy structure to complement canopy height and cover, as well as a candidate Ecological Bio ersity Variable for characterizing habitat structure.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 23-04-2019
DOI: 10.1002/CNCR.32143
Abstract: The benefits of an active lifestyle after a breast cancer diagnosis are well recognized, but the majority of survivors are insufficiently active. The ACTIVATE Trial examined the efficacy of an intervention (use of the Garmin Vivofit 2 activity monitor coupled with a behavioral feedback and goal-setting session and 5 telephone-delivered health coaching sessions) to increase moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and reduce sedentary behavior in breast cancer survivors. This randomized controlled trial recruited 83 inactive, postmenopausal women diagnosed with stage I-III breast cancer who had completed primary treatment. Participants were randomly assigned to the intervention group or to the control group, and the intervention was delivered over a 12-week period. MVPA and sedentary behavior were measured with Actigraph and activPAL accelerometers at baseline (T1) and at the end of the intervention (T2). Retention in the trial was high, with 80 (96%) of participants completing T2 data collection. At T2, there was a significant between-group difference in MVPA (69 min/wk 95% CI = 22-116) favoring the intervention group. The trial resulted in a statistically significant decrease in both total sitting time and prolonged bouts (≥20 min) of sitting, with between-group reductions of 37 min/d (95% CI = -72 to -2) and 42 min/d (95% CI = -83 to -2), respectively, favoring the intervention group. Results from the ACTIVATE Trial suggest that the use of wearable technology presents an inexpensive and scalable opportunity to facilitate more active lifestyles for cancer survivors. Whether or not such wearable technology-based interventions can create sustainable behavioral change should be the subject of future research.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 10-2018
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 09-2021
Abstract: Greater physical activity (PA) and less sitting time (ST) have been associated with lower breast cancer (BC) risk in observational studies, but causality is undetermined. Mendelian randomization (MR) investigates causality by using genotype to simulate randomized trials within observational data. A recent summary-data MR study assessed PA and BC by estrogen-receptor (ER) status. We aimed to examine PA and ST in relation to invasive BC risk overall and by molecular subtype. We performed two-s le MR using in idual-level Breast Cancer Association Consortium data from 125,684 women (69,869 cases), and summary-level UK Biobank genetic data for the exposure (n = 91,105). We used imputed single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) previously associated (p & 5x10-8) with accelerometer-measured PA (n-SNPs=5) or ST (n = 6). We estimated odds ratios (OR) from inverse-variance weighted MR. Greater PA was associated with lower risk of BC (OR = 0.48 %CI=0.30-0.78 per standard deviation [SD] in activity). Estimates were inverse for all subtypes, particularly ER + (OR=0.45 95%CI=0.25-0.83), PR + (OR=0.43 %CI=0.22-0.85), and HER2 + (OR = 0.48 95%CI=0.26-0.89). Greater ST was associated with higher risk of hormone-receptor-negative tumours, particularly triple-negative (ER-/PR-/HER2-) (OR = 2.04 95%CI=1.06-3.93 per SD in ST). Estimates overall and for most other subtypes were elevated but had wide CIs crossing null. Sensitivity analyses (weighted-median MR and MR-Egger) did not suggest strong pleiotropic effects for either exposure. Greater PA and lower ST reduces risk of all breast cancers, and hormone-receptor negative tumours, respectively. More widespread adoption of active lifestyles will lower burden from the most common cancer in women. More active and less sedentary lifestyles reduce risk of breast cancer.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 26-04-2019
DOI: 10.1002/PON.5090
Abstract: The objective of this study was to ascertain whether wearable technology coupled with action planning was effective in increasing physical activity (PA) in colorectal and endometrial cancer survivors at cardiovascular risk. Sixty-eight survivors who had cardiovascular risk factors and were insufficiently active were randomized to intervention and control arms. Intervention participants were given a wearable tracker for 12 weeks, two group sessions, and a support phone call. Participants in the control arm received print materials describing PA guidelines. Assessments at baseline and 12 weeks measured triaxial and uniaxial estimates of moderate-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), sedentary behaviour, blood pressure, and body mass index (BMI). The intervention group significantly increased MVPA by 45 min/wk compared with a reduction of 21 min/wk in the control group. Group by time interactions were significant for minutes of MVPA (F Significant improvements in MVPA were observed following the intervention. The results display promise for the use of pragmatic, low-intensity interventions using wearable technology.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 23-04-2019
DOI: 10.1002/CNCR.32142
Abstract: This brief report examines the maintenance of moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and sedentary behavior changes approximately 12 weeks after the delivery of the ACTIVATE Trial primary intervention (use of the Garmin Vivofit 2 activity tracker coupled with a behavioral feedback and goal-setting session and 5 telephone-delivered health coaching sessions). We also examine the efficacy of an abridged intervention (use of the Garmin Vivofit 2 only) in the waitlist control group. A pre-post design was employed to examine the secondary aims of the ACTIVATE Trial (n = 80 mean age = 62 years). MVPA and sedentary behavior were measured using Actigraph and activPAL accelerometers after delivery of the primary intervention (T2), and again 12 weeks later (T3). Linear mixed models with random effects were used to examine within-group changes in MVPA and sitting time variables. After the 12-week follow-up period, women in the primary intervention group had maintained their higher levels of MVPA (change from T2 to T3 = 14 min/wk 95% CI = -18 to 46 P = .37). However, their sitting time increased slightly, by 7 min/d (95% CI = -20 to 34 P = .58), but it did not return to its preintervention level. After receiving the Garmin Vivofit 2, the waitlist control group increased their MVPA by 33 min/wk (95% CI = 3-64 P = .03) and reduced their sitting time by 38 min/d (95% CI = -69 to -7 P = .02) over the same 12-week period. The secondary outcomes from the ACTIVATE Trial suggest that wearable technology may generate sustainable changes in MVPA and sitting time. Wearable technology alone may be sufficient to change behavior, at least in the short term.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2023
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 08-04-2019
DOI: 10.1007/S10552-019-01138-6
Abstract: Research on the association between physical activity and the risk of prostate cancer is inconsistent. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the timing, intensity, and type of recreational physical activity influence prostate cancer risk. A population-based case-control study was conducted in Western Australia in 2001-2002. Data were collected on lifetime recreational physical activity from a self-reported questionnaire. The estimated effects of recreational physical activity on prostate cancer risk were analyzed using logistic regression, adjusting for demographic and lifestyle factors. This analysis included 569 incident cases and 443 controls. There was a significant, inverse dose-response relationship between vigorous-intensity recreational physical activity between the ages 19 and 34 years and the risk of prostate cancer (p A high level of vigorous recreational physical activity in early adulthood may be required to reduce the risk of prostate cancer.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2015
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 30-09-2023
DOI: 10.1111/RESP.14382
Abstract: Urban firefighters are routinely exposed to both physical and chemical hazards that can negatively impact lung health, but it is unclear if firefighters experience accelerated decline in spirometry parameters due to chronic exposure and acute insults. This study aimed to describe sub‐groups of firefighters with differing spirometry trajectories and examine the relationship between the identified trajectories and demographic, lifestyle and occupational characteristics. Data from six waves of the Respiratory Function Measurement and Surveillance for South Australian Metropolitan Fire Service Study (2007–2019) were used to identify spirometry parameter z‐score trajectories, using group‐based multi‐trajectory modelling (GBMTM). Analysis of variance and chi‐square statistics were used to assess trajectory group differences in baseline self‐reported demographic, lifestyle and occupational characteristics. In the 669 included firefighters, we identified five trajectories for the combination of Forced Expiratory Volume in the first second z‐score (FEV 1 z), Forced Vital Capacity z‐score (FVCz) and the ratio of FEV 1 and FVC z‐score (FEV 1 /FVCz). There were three stable trajectories of low, average and very high lung function and two declining trajectories of average and high lung function. Analysis of subgroup characteristics revealed no significant differences between expected and actual group proportions for the occupational characteristics of years of service and respiratory protection use. Significant differences were seen in respiratory health and body mass index. GBMTM defined distinct, plausible spirometry trajectory sub‐groups. Firefighter longitudinal spirometry trajectory group membership was associated with BMI and respiratory disease or symptoms but not with self‐reported smoking history or occupational factors.
Publisher: SPIE
Date: 02-11-2017
DOI: 10.1117/12.2276913
Publisher: American Meteorological Society
Date: 10-2019
Abstract: In this study, trends of seasonal precipitation are investigated in subregions of Hunan Province in China over 1960–2013 by discrete wavelet transform (DWT) and Mann–Kendall (MK) tests. The main purpose of trend analysis is to detect the most dominant periodic components affecting the observed trends of seasonal precipitation in each subregion. For this purpose, the homogeneous precipitation regions are first delineated by combining rotated empirical orthogonal functions with agglomerative hierarchical clustering. Results suggest iding the precipitation of Hunan Province into five subregions for winter and three subregions for spring, summer, and autumn. Delineated subregions for each season show strongly coherent spatial patterns, all of which are along the strip extending in the southwest–northeast direction. After regionalization, areal seasonal precipitation series in each subregion are decomposed into several detail and approximation component subseries, and then the decomposed subseries are analyzed by three types of MK tests. Results reveal that winter and summer precipitations experience an increasing trend in all of the isions—winter precipitation in southeast-central and southern Hunan and summer precipitation in southwest-central Hunan especially exhibit a statistically significant tendency. However, spring and autumn precipitations show a nonsignificant decreasing trend in all of the isions. Results from DWT and sequential MK analyses suggest that detail component 1 (plus approximation) of seasonal precipitations in all subregions is the most dominant periodic mode affecting their observed trends, except for summer precipitation in the subregion of southern Hunan, where detail component 2 is the most dominant one. Therefore, short-term periodicity (2–4 yr) is the most influential in affecting the observed trends of seasonal precipitation over Hunan Province.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 28-05-2020
DOI: 10.1136/OEMED-2019-106315
Abstract: Increased mammographic density is one of the strongest risk factors for breast cancer. Night shiftwork and its related factors, which include light at night, phase shift and sleep disruption, are believed to increase breast cancer risk however, their effects on mammographic density have barely been studied. This study included 1821 women enrolled in the Breast Cancer Environment and Employment Study between 2009 and 2011. Mammographic density was measured using the Cumulus software program. The association of night shiftwork factors with square root transformed absolute dense area (DA) and percentage dense area (PDA) were modelled using linear regression adjusted for confounders. Ever doing graveyard shiftwork (between 24:00 and 05:00 hours) was not associated with PDA (β=−0.10 95% CI −0.27 to 0.08)) and DA (β=−0.12 95% CI −0.33 to 0.09)). No association was found between night shiftwork related factors (light at night, phase shift and sleep disturbance) with PDA or DA. Shiftwork and its related factors are not associated with mammographic density. Using high-quality, comprehensive shiftwork data from a large population-based breast cancer case–control study, this study suggests that mammographic density does not play a role in the relationship between shiftwork and breast cancer risk.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 03-02-2018
DOI: 10.1136/OEMED-2017-104657
Abstract: Research indicates that shiftwork may be associated with increased risks of adverse health outcomes, including some cancers. However, the evidence of an association between shiftwork and colorectal cancer risk is limited and inconclusive. Further, while several possible pathways through which shiftwork might result in cancer have been proposed, few studies have taken these factors into account. We investigated the association between two types of shiftwork (graveyard shiftwork and early-morning shiftwork) and six mechanistic shiftwork variables (including light at night and phase shift) and the risk of colorectal cancer among females in an Australian population-based case–control study. Graveyard shiftwork was the primary exposure of interest. Participants (350 cases and 410 controls) completed a lifetime occupational history, and exposure to each of the eight shiftwork variables was assigned to participants through a job exposure matrix. We used logistic regression to calculate odds ratios (OR) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the association between different shiftwork variables and the risk of colorectal cancer, adjusting for potential demographic, lifestyle and medical confounders. Working in an occupation involving long-term exposure ( .5 years) to graveyard shiftwork was not associated with colorectal cancer risk (adjusted OR 0.95, 95% CI 0.57 to 1.58). Similarly, no increased risks of colorectal cancer were seen for any of the other seven shiftwork variables examined. No evidence of an increased risk of colorectal cancer among females who had worked in occupations involving shiftwork was observed in this study.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 16-03-2022
DOI: 10.1007/S00421-022-04931-5
Abstract: Exercise improves measures of cardiovascular (CV) health and function. But as traditional measures improve gradually, it can be difficult to identify the effectiveness of an exercise intervention in the short-term. Left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LVGLS) is a highly sensitive CV imaging measure that detects signs of myocardial dysfunction prior to more traditional measures, with reductions in LVGLS a strong prognostic indicator of future CV dysfunction and mortality. Due to its sensitivity, LVGLS may offer useful method of tracking the effectiveness of an exercise intervention on CV function in the short-term, providing practitioners useful information to improve patient care in exercise settings. However, the effect of exercise on LVGLS is unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the effect exercise has on LVGLS across a range of populations. Included studies assessed LVGLS pre–post an exercise intervention (minimum 2 weeks) in adults 18 years and over, and were published in English from 2000 onwards. Study-level random-effects meta-analyses were performed using Stata (v16.1) to calculate summary standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). 39 studies met selection criteria, with 35 included in meta-analyses (1765 participants). In primary analyses, a significant improvement in LVGLS was observed in populations with CV disease (SMD = 0.59 95% CI 0.16–1.02 p = 0.01), however, no significant effect of exercise was observed in CV risk factor and healthy populations. In populations with CV disease, LVGLS could be used as an early biomarker to determine the effectiveness of an exercise regime before changes in other clinical measures are observed.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 19-06-2022
DOI: 10.1002/AJIM.22428
Abstract: Although job-related diseases result in more deaths per year than job-related injuries, most research concerning ethnic minority workers has concerned accidents and injuries rather than disease-causing exposures such as carcinogens. We conducted a telephone-based cross-sectional survey to estimate the prevalence of occupational exposure to carcinogens among a s le of ethnic minority workers in Australia, and compared their exposure prevalence to that of a s le of the general Australian-born working population ('Australian workers'). One-third of the ethnic minority workers were exposed to at least one carcinogen at work. The likelihood of exposure to carcinogens was not significantly different from that of Australian workers, although the likelihood of exposure to in idual carcinogens varied by ethnicity. Knowing the prevalence of exposure to carcinogens in the workplace in different ethnic groups will allow better targeted and informed occupational health and safety measures to be implemented where necessary.
Publisher: American Association for Cancer Research (AACR)
Date: 02-2017
DOI: 10.1158/1055-9965.EPI-16-0545
Abstract: Background: Moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) is inversely associated with waist circumference and body mass index (BMI) among breast cancer survivors. Limited research has focused on behaviors that account for larger portions of the day [sleep, sedentary time, and light-intensity physical activity (LPA)]. We investigated the interdependent associations of self-reported sleep, objectively assessed prolonged and short bouts of sedentary time, total LPA, and total MVPA with waist circumference and BMI. Methods: A cross-sectional s le of breast cancer survivors (N = 256, mean age = 60 years mean time since diagnosis = 3 years) wore an Actigraph GT3X+ accelerometer during waking hours for 7 days. Participants completed the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and self-reported their waist circumference, height, and weight. An isotemporal substitution approach was used in linear regression models to explore the associations of reallocating time to sleep, sedentary and active behaviors on waist circumference, and BMI, after adjusting for potential confounders. Results: Reallocating 30 minutes to MVPA was significantly associated with lower waist circumference when allocated from sleep (−2.50 cm), prolonged sedentary time (−2.51 cm), or LPA (−2.71 cm). Reallocating 30 minutes of prolonged sedentary time to nonprolonged sedentary time was significantly associated with lower waist circumference (−0.94 cm). Similar results were observed for BMI. Conclusions: Reallocating 30 minutes to MVPA was associated with significantly lower waist circumference and BMI, as was reallocating 30 minutes of prolonged sedentary time to 30 minutes of nonprolonged sedentary time. Impact: Increasing MVPA levels and decreasing time spent in prolonged, unbroken sedentary bouts may be avenues for improving body composition in this population. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 26(2) 254–60. ©2016 AACR.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 06-09-2022
DOI: 10.1136/BJSPORTS-2021-105132
Abstract: Physical inactivity and sedentary behaviour are associated with higher breast cancer risk in observational studies, but ascribing causality is difficult. Mendelian randomisation (MR) assesses causality by simulating randomised trial groups using genotype. We assessed whether lifelong physical activity or sedentary time, assessed using genotype, may be causally associated with breast cancer risk overall, pre ost-menopause, and by case-groups defined by tumour characteristics. We performed two-s le inverse-variance-weighted MR using in idual-level Breast Cancer Association Consortium case-control data from 130 957 European-ancestry women (69 838 invasive cases), and published UK Biobank data (n=91 105–377 234). Genetic instruments were single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated in UK Biobank with wrist-worn accelerometer-measured overall physical activity (n snps =5) or sedentary time (n snps =6), or accelerometer-measured (n snps =1) or self-reported (n snps =5) vigorous physical activity. Greater genetically-predicted overall activity was associated with lower breast cancer overall risk (OR=0.59 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.42 to 0.83 per-standard deviation (SD ~8 milligravities acceleration)) and for most case-groups. Genetically-predicted vigorous activity was associated with lower risk of pre erimenopausal breast cancer (OR=0.62 95% CI 0.45 to 0.87,≥3 vs. 0 self-reported days/week), with consistent estimates for most case-groups. Greater genetically-predicted sedentary time was associated with higher hormone-receptor-negative tumour risk (OR=1.77 95% CI 1.07 to 2.92 per-SD (~7% time spent sedentary)), with elevated estimates for most case-groups. Results were robust to sensitivity analyses examining pleiotropy (including weighted-median-MR, MR-Egger). Our study provides strong evidence that greater overall physical activity, greater vigorous activity, and lower sedentary time are likely to reduce breast cancer risk. More widespread adoption of active lifestyles may reduce the burden from the most common cancer in women.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 16-01-2020
DOI: 10.3390/LAND9010027
Abstract: Land use and land cover change (LULCC) are dynamic over time and space due to human and biophysical factors. Accurate and up-to-date LULCC information is a mandatory part of environmental change analysis and natural resource management. In Sri Lanka, there is a significant temporal gap in the existing LULCC information due to the civil war that took place from 1983 to 2009. In order to fill this gap, this study presents a whole-country LULCC map for Sri Lanka over a 25-year period using Landsat time-series imagery from 1993 to 2018. The LandTrendr change detection algorithm, utilising the normalised burn ratio (NBR) and normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI), was used to develop spectral trajectories over this time period. A land cover change and disturbance map was created with random forest, using 2117 manually interpreted reference pixels, of which 75% were used for training and 25% for validation. The model achieved an overall accuracy of 94.14%. The study found that 890,003.52 hectares (ha) (13.5%) of the land has changed, while 72,266.31 ha (1%) was disturbed (but not permanently changed) over the last 25 years. LULCC was found to concentrate on two distinct periods (2000 to 2004 and 2010 to 2018) when social and economic stability allowed greater land clearing and investment opportunities. In addition, LULCC was found to impact forest reserves and protected areas. This new set of Sri Lanka-wide land cover information describing change and disturbance may provide a reference point for policy makers and other stakeholders to aid in decision making and for planning purposes.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 09-08-2023
Abstract: Cerebral white matter hyperintensities on MRI are markers of cerebral small vessel disease, a major risk factor for dementia and stroke. Despite the successful identification of multiple genetic variants associated with this highly heritable condition, its genetic architecture remains incompletely understood. More specifically, the role of DNA methylation has received little attention. We investigated the association between white matter hyperintensity burden and DNA methylation in blood at ∼450 000 cytosine-phosphate-guanine (CpG) sites in 9732 middle-aged to older adults from 14 community-based studies. Single CpG and region-based association analyses were carried out. Functional annotation and integrative cross-omics analyses were performed to identify novel genes underlying the relationship between DNA methylation and white matter hyperintensities. We identified 12 single CpG and 46 region-based DNA methylation associations with white matter hyperintensity burden. Our top discovery single CpG, cg24202936 (P = 7.6 × 10−8), was associated with F2 expression in blood (P = 6.4 × 10−5) and co-localized with FOLH1 expression in brain (posterior probability = 0.75). Our top differentially methylated regions were in PRMT1 and in CCDC144NL-AS1, which were also represented in single CpG associations (cg17417856 and cg06809326, respectively). Through Mendelian randomization analyses cg06809326 was putatively associated with white matter hyperintensity burden (P = 0.03) and expression of CCDC144NL-AS1 possibly mediated this association. Differentially methylated region analysis, joint epigenetic association analysis and multi-omics co-localization analysis consistently identified a role of DNA methylation near SH3PXD2A, a locus previously identified in genome-wide association studies of white matter hyperintensities. Gene set enrichment analyses revealed functions of the identified DNA methylation loci in the blood–brain barrier and in the immune response. Integrative cross-omics analysis identified 19 key regulatory genes in two networks related to extracellular matrix organization, and lipid and lipoprotein metabolism. A drug-repositioning analysis indicated antihyperlipidaemic agents, more specifically peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha, as possible target drugs for white matter hyperintensities. Our epigenome-wide association study and integrative cross-omics analyses implicate novel genes influencing white matter hyperintensity burden, which converged on pathways related to the immune response and to a compromised blood–brain barrier possibly due to disrupted cell–cell and cell–extracellular matrix interactions. The results also suggest that antihyperlipidaemic therapy may contribute to lowering risk for white matter hyperintensities possibly through protection against blood–brain barrier disruption.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2023
Publisher: Copernicus GmbH
Date: 23-06-2016
DOI: 10.5194/ISPRSARCHIVES-XLI-B8-673-2016
Abstract: This paper presents a methodology for the attribution and characterisation of Sclerophyll forested landscapes over large areas. First we define a set of woody vegetation data primitives (e.g. canopy cover, leaf area index (LAI), bole density, canopy height), which are then scaled-up using multiple remote sensing data sources to characterise and extract landscape woody vegetation features. The advantage of this approach is that vegetation landscape features can be described from composites of these data primitives. The proposed data primitives act as building blocks for the re-creation of past woody characterisation schemes as well as allowing for re-compilation to support present and future policy and management and decision making needs. & br& & br& Three main research sites were attributed representative of different sclerophyll woody vegetated systems (Box Iron-bark forest Mountain Ash forest Mixed Species foothills forest). High resolution hyperspectral and full waveform LiDAR data was acquired over the three research sites. At the same time, land management agencies (Victorian Department of Environment, Land Water and Planning) and researchers (RMIT, CRC for Spatial Information and CSIRO) conducted fieldwork to collect structural and functional measurements of vegetation, using traditional forest mensuration transects and plots, terrestrial lidar scanning and high temporal resolution in-situ autonomous laser (VegNet) scanners. & br& & br& Results are presented of: 1) inter-comparisons of LAI estimations made using ground based hemispherical photography, LAI 2200 PCA, CI-110 and terrestrial and airborne laser scanners 2) canopy height and vertical canopy complexity derived from airborne LiDAR validated using ground observations and, 3) time-series characterisation of land cover features. & br& & br& 1. Accuracy targets for remotely sensed LAI products to match within ground based estimates are ± 0.5 LAI or a 20% maximum (CEOS/GCOS) with new aspirational targets of 5%). In this research we conducted a total of 67 ground-based method-to-method pairwise comparisons across 11 plots in five sites, incorporating the previously mentioned LAI methods. Out of the 67 comparisons, 29 had an RMSE ≥ 0.5 LAIe. This has important implications for the validation of remotely sensed products since ground based techniques themselves exhibit LAI variations greater than internationally recommended guidelines for satellite product accuracies. & br& & br& 2. Two methods of canopy height derivation are proposed and tested over a large area (4 Million Ha). 99th percentile maximum height achieved a RMSE of 6.6%, whilst 95th percentile dominant height a RMSE = 10.3%. Vertical canopy complexity (i.e. the number of forest layers of strata) was calculated as the local maxima of vegetation density within the LiDAR canopy profile and determined using a cubic spline smoothing of Pgap. This was then validated against in-situ and LiDAR observations of canopy strata with an RMSE 0.39 canopy layers. & br& & br& 3. Preliminary results are presented of landcover characterisation using LandTrendr analysis of Landsat LEDAPS data. kNN is then used to link these features to a dense network of 800 field plots sites.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 18-02-2017
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 05-09-2019
DOI: 10.1002/JOC.5830
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 09-2023
DOI: 10.1002/HYP.14999
Publisher: IEEE
Date: 07-2013
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2017
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2022
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 27-03-2013
DOI: 10.1093/JNCI/DJT069
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 25-05-2023
DOI: 10.3390/F14061098
Abstract: Research Highlights: We used Landsat time series data to investigate the role forest tenure and protection status play in the recovery of a forest after a fire. Background and Objectives: Changing fire regimes put forests in southeast Australia under increasing pressure. Our investigation aimed to explore the impact of different forest management structures on a forest’s resilience to fire by looking at the post-fire recovery duration. Materials and Methods: The analysis included a total of 60.6 Mha of land containing 25.4 Mha of forest in southeast Australia. Multispectral time series data from Landsat satellites and a local reference dataset were used to model attributes of disturbance and recovery over a period of 33 years. Results: Protected public forest spectrally recovered 0.4 years faster than protected private forest. No other significant effects in relation to different tenure and protection status were found. Climatic and topographic variables were found to have much greater influence on post-fire spectral recovery. Conclusions: Protected area status in public forests resulted in slightly faster recovery, compared with the private protected forest estate. However, factors outside the control of land managers and policy makers, i.e., climatic and topographic variables, appear to have a much greater impact on post-fire recovery.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 18-08-2016
DOI: 10.1136/OEMED-2015-103537
Abstract: There is limited research on the association between sedentary behaviour and breast cancer risk, particularly whether sedentary behaviour is differentially associated with premenopausal and postmenopausal breast cancer. We pooled data from 2 case-control studies from Australia and Canada to investigate this association. This pooled analysis included 1762 incident breast cancer cases and 2532 controls. Participants in both studies completed a lifetime occupational history and self-rated occupational physical activity level. A job-exposure matrix (JEM) was also applied to job titles to assess sedentary work. Logistic regression analyses (6 pooled and 12 study-specific) were conducted to estimate associations between both self-reported and JEM-assessed sedentary work and breast cancer risk among premenopausal and postmenopausal women. No association was observed in the 6 pooled analyses, and 10 of the study-specific analyses also showed null results. 2 study-specific analyses provided inconsistent and contradictory results, with 1 showing statistically significant increased risk of breast cancer for self-reported sedentary work among premenopausal women cancer in the Canadian study, and the other a non-significant inverse association between JEM-assessed sedentary work and breast cancer risk among postmenopausal women in the Australian study. While a suggestion of increased risk was seen for premenopausal women in the Canadian study when using the self-reported measure, overall this pooled study does not provide evidence that sedentary work is associated with breast cancer risk.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 23-09-2015
DOI: 10.3390/RS70912563
Publisher: American Public Health Association
Date: 11-2018
Abstract: Sitting has frequently been equated with smoking, with some sources even suggesting that smoking is safer than sitting. This commentary highlights how sitting and smoking are not comparable. The most recent meta-analysis of sedentary behavior and health outcomes reported a hazard ratio of 1.22 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.09, 1.41) for all-cause mortality. The relative risk (RR) of death from all causes among current smokers, compared with those who have never smoked, is 2.80 (95% CI = 2.72, 2.88) for men and 2.76 for women (95% CI = 2.69, 2.84). The risk is substantially higher for heavy smokers ( 40 cigarettes per day: RR = 4.08 [95% CI = 3.68, 4.52] for men, and 4.41 [95% CI = 3.70, 5.25] for women). These estimates correspond to absolute risk differences of more than 2000 excess deaths from any cause per 100 000 persons per year among the heaviest smokers compared with never smokers, versus 190 excess deaths per 100 000 persons per year when comparing people with the highest volume of sitting with the lowest. Conflicting or distorted information about health risks related to behavioral choices and environmental exposures can lead to confusion and public doubt with respect to health recommendations.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2019
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 16-03-2021
DOI: 10.1111/EMR.12468
Abstract: The Koala ( Phascolarctos cinereus ) is an arboreal marsupial found throughout southeastern Australia. A high risk of extinction in some areas requires adherence to legislation mandating protection of high‐quality habitat. The Koala primarily eats leaves of the Eucalyptus genus and wildlife managers are, in most cases, currently dependent on habitat maps depicting food resource availability derived from low‐resolution regional‐extent (~100,000 hectares) vegetation maps. These maps might not capture resource variability at planning extents (0.1–300 ha), or at resolutions where Koala ecology processes operate (5–50 ha). Consequently, potentially high‐quality habitat may not be considered in planning decisions. Whether low‐resolution habitat mapping adequately captures food resource variability is therefore relevant to map users at non‐regional extents. We examined four different broad‐scale low‐resolution habitat maps within a small area (150 ha) in southeast Queensland and compared the classifications of each. Map units were generally ranked in the same hierarchical order however, differences in methodologies meant that, between maps, some units varied widely in assigned habitat quality. Two maps were assessed using quantitative Queensland Herbarium data, and field data we collected. Assessment using overstorey species emphasised habitat quality differences between habitat map units better than the alternative whole‐of‐canopy method. Maps relying on interpretation of vegetation descriptions for habitat class definition sometimes overestimated food tree cover proportions and stakeholders need to be cognisant of these limitations. One method assigned Very Low Suitability to a 60‐ha focal study site containing evidence of Koala use, and we strongly recommend that field validation should be an integral part of habitat management at these scales. We conclude that, rather than mapping approaches encompassing several habitat attributes within a single map, layered datasets, each with specific attributes, would provide greater utility for stakeholders by allowing them to use layers in idually or in combination as required.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 27-12-2019
DOI: 10.3390/RS12010098
Abstract: The free open access data policy instituted for the Landsat archive since 2008 has revolutionised the use of Landsat data for forest monitoring, especially for estimating forest aboveground biomass (AGB). This paper provides a comprehensive review of recent approaches utilising Landsat time-series (LTS) for estimating AGB and its dynamics across space and time. In particular, we focus on reviewing: (1) how LTS has been utilised to improve the estimation of AGB (for both single-date and over time) and (2) recent LTS-based approaches used for estimating AGB and its dynamics across space and time. In contrast to using single-date images, the use of LTS can benefit forest AGB estimation in two broad areas. First, using LTS allows for the filling of spatial and temporal data gaps in AGB predictions, improving the quality of AGB products and enabling the estimation of AGB across large areas and long time-periods. Second, studies have demonstrated that spectral information extracted from LTS analysis, including forest disturbance and recovery metrics, can significantly improve the accuracy of AGB models. Throughout the last decade, many innovative LTS-based approaches for estimating forest AGB dynamics across space and time have been demonstrated. A general trend is that methods have evolved as demonstrated through recent studies, becoming more advanced and robust. However, most of these methods have been developed and tested in areas that are either supported by established forest inventory programs and/or can rely on Lidar data across large forest areas. Further investigations should focus on tropical forest areas where inventory data are often not systematically available and/or out-of-date.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.LUNGCAN.2018.03.010
Abstract: No studies have examined objectively assessed physical activity, sedentary time, and patient-reported outcomes among lung cancer survivors. The objective of this study was to determine associations of objectively assessed moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) and sedentary time with health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and fatigue among lung cancer survivors. Lung cancer survivors in Southern Alberta (N = 540) were invited to complete a mailed survey that assessed HRQoL [Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Lung (FACT-L)], physical and functional well-being [Trial Outcome Index (TOI)], and fatigue [Fatigue Scale (FS)]. Physical activity and sedentary time data was collected using an Actigraph A total of 127 lung cancer survivors participated for a 24% response rate (Mean age = 71 years Mean time since diagnosis = 75 months). Total MVPA minutes was positively associated with fewer fatigue symptoms at the 25th percentile (β = 0.16, p = 0.046). Total sedentary time was inversely associated with HRQoL at the 75th percentile (β = -0.07, p = 0.014) and inversely associated with fatigue symptoms at the 50th percentile (β = -0.04, p = 0.009). Total sedentary time was also inversely associated with physical and functional well-being scores at the 25th (β = -0.07, p = 0.045), 50th (β = -0.07, p = 0.004) and 75th (β = -0.04, p = 0.035) percentiles. Across the HRQoL, fatigue, and physical and functional well-being distributions, sedentary time was inversely associated with HRQoL, fatigue, and physical and functional well-being in lung cancer survivors. Small associations were observed between MVPA and fatigue, but no associations emerged with HRQoL or physical and functional well-being.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 07-2017
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2017
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 08-12-2018
DOI: 10.1136/OEMED-2017-104795
Abstract: Colorectal cancer is the third most prevalent cancer in the world and is twice as common in developed countries when compared with low-income and middle-income countries. Few occupational risk factors for colorectal cancer have been identified. This case–control study aimed to assess the association between colorectal cancer and occupational exposure to selected solvents, combustion products, metals, dusts and other agents. Cases (n=918) were enrolled from the Western Australian Cancer Registry from June 2005 to August 2007. Controls (n=1021) were randomly selected from the Western Australian electoral roll. We collected lifetime occupational history from cases and controls, in addition to their demographic and lifestyle characteristics. We applied the INTEROCC job exposure matrix to convert the occupational history to occupational exposure for 18 selected agents. Three exposure indices were developed: (1) exposed versus non-exposed (2) lifetime cumulative exposure and (3) total duration of exposure. The associations between colorectal cancer and the selected agents were estimated using logistic regression models adjusting for sex and age. None of the 18 selected agents showed an association with colorectal cancer. No dose–response relationships with lifetime cumulative exposure or duration of exposure were observed. There was no evidence to suggest that occupational exposure to 18 selected agents increased the risk of colorectal cancer.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 06-04-2014
Abstract: Limited research indicates that using English language only surveys in prevalence studies conducted in the general population or in specific ethnic populations may result in unrepresentative s les and biased results. In this study, we investigated whether participants from ethnic minorities who chose to answer a study interview in a language other than English (LOTE) differed from those who completed the interview in English. This study was conducted within an Australian population-based telephone survey that assessed the prevalence of occupational exposure to carcinogens among 749 ethnic minority workers. We used modified Poisson regression to determine the factors associated with completing the interview in a LOTE. Participants who elected to complete the interview in a LOTE differed from those who completed it in English on several factors, including sex, country of birth, education, occupation, and occupational exposure to carcinogens (40% compared with 29%, P < 0.01). The participants who chose to complete the study interview in their native language had several demographic differences from those participants who completed it in English, and were more likely to be exposed to carcinogens at work. Prevalence studies that offer only English language study instruments are unlikely to produce representative s les of minority groups, and may therefore produce biased results.
Publisher: IEEE
Date: 07-2013
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-06-2011
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 02-04-2019
DOI: 10.1002/HYP.13430
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.MEHY.2011.06.002
Abstract: Shift work has been associated with various adverse health outcomes. In particular, there has been a recent flourish in investigating potential cancer risk associated with working night shifts and other shift schedules. Epidemiologic studies have revealed generally weak associations due to several methodological challenges such as lack of standard classifications of shift or night work. The field also has been hindered by a lack of clarity about the possible mechanisms by which shiftwork could have an effect on cancer risk. One possible mechanism is reduced production of melatonin caused by exposure to light at night. Although there is a growing body of evidence that provides some support for this mechanism, several other mechanisms also make sense from a biological point of view. Further, the relatively weak magnitude of the associations between light at night and melatonin level suggests that multiple factors may be operating along the pathway between shift work and adverse health consequences (including cancer risk). Here we propose four additional mechanisms that should be considered for a comprehensive investigation of these potential pathways. These are: phase shift sleep disruption lifestyle factors (such as poor quality diets, less physical activity and higher BMI) and lower vitamin D. Consideration of all these mechanisms is necessary in order to design effective preventative workplace strategies. In developed countries, approximately 20% of the population undertake shiftwork and, while we are unlikely to be able to eliminate shiftwork from current work practices, there are aspects of shiftwork that can be modified and there may be facets of in idual susceptibility that we may be able to identify and target for prevention.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2018
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 06-03-2023
DOI: 10.1007/S11547-023-01611-Y
Abstract: Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Breast arterial calcification (BAC) on mammograms is not associated with breast cancer risk. However, there is increasing evidence supporting its association with cardiovascular disease (CVD). This study examines the association between BAC and ASCVD and their risk factors within an Australian population-based breast cancer study. Data from the controls who participated in the breast cancer environment and employment study (BCEES) were linked with the Western Australian Department of Health Hospital Morbidity database and Mortality Registry to obtain ASCVD outcomes and related risk factor data. Mammograms from participants with no prior history of ASCVD were assessed for BAC by a radiologist. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to examine the association between BAC and later occurrence of an ASCVD event. Logistic regression was used to investigate the factors associated with BAC. A total of 1020 women with a mean age of 60 (sd = 7.0 years) were included and BAC found in 184 (18.0%). Eighty (7.8%) of the 1020 participants developed ASCVD, with an average time to event of 6.2 years (sd = 4.6) from baseline. In univariate analysis, participants with BAC were more likely to have an ASCVD event (HR = 1.96 95% CI 1.29–2.99). However, after adjusting for other risk factors, this association attenuated (HR = 1.37 95% CI 0.88–2.14). Increasing age (OR = 1.15, 95% CI 1.12–1.19) and parity ( p LRT 0.001) were associated with BAC. BAC is associated with increased ASCVD risk, but this is not independent of cardiovascular risk factors.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.JCLINEPI.2011.11.007
Abstract: The Breast Cancer Environment and Employment Study (BCEES) is a case--control study that began in 2009. The study experienced a lower than expected response fraction, a trend that appears to be occurring internationally. A 32-page questionnaire was included in the initial invitation to participate, and previous research suggests that long questionnaires decrease response fractions. The aim of this study was to test whether removal of the questionnaire from the invitation package increased participation. A randomized controlled trial was undertaken among the BCEES controls from June to August 2010. One group of 250 received the questionnaire in the initial invitation package, and the other group of 250 received only the invitation package and was sent the questionnaire after their consent was received. The proportion of responses for the two groups was compared using contingency tables and chi-square statistics. Those who received the questionnaire with the invitation package were more likely to consent to participate than those who did not (40.8% and 33.2%, respectively). However, this difference was not statistically significant (P=0.078). To improve response fractions and reduce time in following up nonresponses, questionnaires should be included in the invitation package.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 30-10-2018
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 14-08-2022
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-10-2014
DOI: 10.1007/S10552-014-0470-7
Abstract: Although previous research has identified factors that may determine willingness to participate in research, relatively few studies have attempted to quantify the impact non-participation may have on exposure-disease associations. The aims of this study were to (a) investigate the associations between smoking, alcohol, diabetes, obesity, and socioeconomic status and the risk of colorectal cancer in a case-control study (59.7 and 47.2 % response fractions among cases and controls, respectively) and (b) perform sensitivity analyses to examine the possible influence of non-participation. Logistic regression was used to estimate the exposure-disease associations. We then investigated the associations between various demographic and health factors and the likelihood that an in idual would participate in the case-control study and then performed two sensitivity analyses (s ling weights and multiple imputation) to examine whether non-participation bias may have influenced the exposure-disease associations. The exposures alcohol, smoking, and diabetes were associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer. We found some differences between cases and controls when examining the factors associated with the participation in the study, and in the sensitivity analyses, the exposure-disease associations were slightly attenuated when compared with those from the original analysis. Non-participation may have biased the risk estimates away from the null, but generally not enough to change the conclusions of the study.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 29-10-2021
DOI: 10.3390/F12111494
Abstract: Previous research has shown that the Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) prefers larger trees, potentially making this a key factor influencing koala habitat quality. Generally, tree height is considered at regional scales which may overlook variation at patch or local scales. In this study, we aimed to derive a set of parameters to assist in classifying koala habitat in terms of tree height, which can then be used as an overlay for existing habitat maps. To determine canopy height variation within a specific forest community across a broad area in eastern Australia, we used freely available Airborne Laser Scanning (ALS) data and adopted a straightforward approach by extracting maximum-height ALS returns within a total of 288 30 m × 30 m “virtual” ALS plots. Our findings show that while maximum tree heights generally fall within published regional-scale parameters (mean height 33.2 m), they vary significantly between subregions (mean height 28.8–39.0 m), within subregions (e.g., mean height 21.3–29.4 m), and at local scales, the tree heights vary in response to previous land-use (mean height 28.0–34.2 m). A canopy height dataset useful for habitat management needs to recognise and incorporate these variations. To examine how this information might be synthesised into a usable map, we used a wall-to-wall canopy height map derived from ALS to investigate spatial and nonspatial clustering techniques that capture canopy height variability at both intra-subregional (100s of hectares) and local (60 hectare) scales. We found that nonspatial K-medians clustering with three or four height classes is suited to intra-subregional extents because it allows for simultaneous assessment and comparison of multiple forest community polygons. Spatially constrained clustering algorithms are suited to in idual polygons, and we recommend the use of the Redcap algorithm because it delineates contiguous height classes recognisable on a map. For habitat management, an overlay combining these height classification approaches as separate attributes would provide the greatest utility at a range of scales. In addition to koala habitat management, canopy height maps could also assist in managing other fauna identifying forest disturbance, regenerating forest, and old-growth forest and identifying errors in existing forest maps.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2019
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 04-01-2018
DOI: 10.1002/PON.4608
Abstract: To determine demographic and clinical correlates of accelerometer assessed physical activity and sedentary time among a population-based s le of lung cancer survivors. Lung cancer survivors in Southern Alberta, Canada (N = 527) were invited to complete a mailed survey assessing socio-demographics and wear an Actigraph® GT3X+ accelerometer for 7 days. Average daily minutes of physical activity and sedentary time were derived from the accelerometer data. Accelerometer data were processed using standard Freedson cutpoints, and correlates of physical activity and sedentary time were determined with linear regression. A total of 127 lung cancer survivors participated (mean age = 71 years), for a 24% response rate. Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity was negatively associated with being >60 years of age (β = -7.4, CI: -14.7, -0.10). Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity accumulated in 10-minute bouts was associated with receiving surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy (β = 9.1, CI: 2.1, 16.1). Sedentary time was associated with being >60 years of age (β = 32.4, CI: 3.1, 61.7), smoking (β = 63.9, CI: 22.5, 105.4), and being overweight/obese (β = 28.6, CI: 6.4, 50.1). Age, smoking history, and body mass index emerged as correlates of accelerometer assessed light, moderate, and vigorous physical activity, and sedentary time among lung cancer survivors. Identifying correlates of physical activity and sedentary time may aid in the development of targeted behavioral interventions for this population.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 04-06-2014
DOI: 10.1002/CNCR.28779
Abstract: The primary purpose of this study was to determine associations of accelerometer-assessed moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA) and sedentary time with health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and physical function and well-being in colon cancer survivors. Colon cancer survivors (N = 178) from Alberta, Canada (n = 92) and Western Australia (n = 86) completed a mailed survey that assessed HRQoL (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Colorectal), physical function and well-being (Trial Outcome Index-Colorectal), and relevant covariates. MVPA and sedentary time were assessed using the Actigraph GT3X+ accelerometer (60-second epochs) via a 7-day monitoring protocol. Average daily MVPA and sedentary time was corrected for wear time and then examined as quartiles. Adjusting for relevant demographic, behavioral, and clinical covariates, a significant difference in HRQoL scores emerged between quartile 1 (Q1) and Q4 (M(diff) = 11.5, P = .038). For physical function and well-being, a significant difference emerged between Q1 and Q4 (M(diff) = 9.1, P = .009). For fatigue, a significant difference emerged between Q1 and Q4 (M(diff) = 7.1, P = .05). Significant differences were also observed for between Q1 and Q3 (M(diff) = 2.4, P = .041), and Q1 and Q4 (M(diff) = 3.5, P = .002) for colorectal cancer-specific symptoms. There were no statistically significant associations of sedentary time with HRQoL, physical function and well-being, fatigue, or colorectal cancer-specific symptoms. Objectively measured MVPA, but not sedentary time, was associated with better HRQoL, physical function and well-being, and colorectal cancer-specific symptoms in colon cancer survivors. For MVPA, differences met or exceeded contemporary cutpoints for determining clinically important differences.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 08-06-2023
DOI: 10.1002/JOC.8135
Abstract: Understanding the unevenness of precipitation distribution within a year is important for water resources management and agricultural production. In this study, spatiotemporal variations of precipitation unevenness in the Yangtze River basin (YRB) during 1961–2020 and its main influencing factors are investigated by the relative entropy (RE) and rotated empirical orthogonal function. The timings of different percentiles of annual total precipitation show that the temporal distribution of precipitation in the YRB is uneven. The unevenness of precipitation distribution exhibits a large spatial variability with a high‐value centre in the northeast and a low value centre in the northwest of the YRB, and an upward trend in almost the entire YRB. Precipitation becomes more uneven with the decrease of annual number of wet days and low‐intensity precipitation amount and the increase of high‐intensity precipitation amount during the study period. Precipitation unevenness of different regions is modulated by the different combinations of different seasonal climate indices with specific time lags. For ex le, in the south‐central YRB, precipitation unevenness generally tends to be enhanced by the positive Tropical Northern Atlantic Index in current summer and sea surface temperature anomalies over South China Sea (SCS) in previous summer, and negative North Atlantic Oscillation in current winter, while in the northeast YRB, be weakened by negative Quasi‐Biennial Oscillation in current spring, Atlantic Meridional Mode in current summer and positive SCS in current autumn. Besides, the identified significant climate indices can partly explain the temporal changes of precipitation unevenness, and their explanatory ability is more powerful in the south‐central, southeast and northwest YRB than in the north‐central and northeast YRB, which reveals a strong negative correlation with the degree of precipitation unevenness.
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