ORCID Profile
0000-0001-6894-5519
Current Organisation
University of South Australia
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Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 21-06-2012
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 11-2021
Abstract: The Australasian Society for Physical Activity aims to advance the science and practice of physical activity in Australia, New Zealand, the Pacific Islands, East Asia, South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Oceania. Fun, enjoyment, and cross-disciplinary discourse are important to ensure the network of physical activity professionals and our collective voice continues to grow. In May 2021, Australasian Society for Physical Activity’s Early Career Network curated an engaging online Physical Activity Debate attended by 206 professionals. This commentary provides a synopsis of the debate and the central arguments presented by the affirmative and negatives teams. The authors describe the debate format and interactive design of the online Physical Activity Debate to provide insights for future online events that aim to boost interaction among physical activity professionals from various disciplines.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 06-02-2010
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2011
Abstract: Sedentary behaviour has been linked with adverse health outcomes in young people however, the nature and context of being sedentary is poorly understood. Accurate quantification and description of sedentary behaviour using population-level data is required. The aim of this research was to describe sedentary behaviour among New Zealand (NZ) youth and examine whether sedentary behaviour differs by Body Mass Index (BMI) status in this population. A national representative cross-sectional survey of young people aged 5-24 years (n = 2,503) was conducted in 2008-2009. Data from this survey, which included subjectively (recall diary n = 1,309) and objectively (accelerometry n = 960) measured sedentary behaviour for participants aged 10-18 years were analysed using survey weighted methods. Participants self-reported spending on average 521 minutes per day (standard error [SE] 5.29) in total sedentary behaviour, 181 minutes per day (SE 3.91) in screen-based sedentary activities (e.g., television and video games), and 340 minutes per day (SE 5.22) in other non-screen sedentary behaviours (e.g., school, passive transport and self-care). Accelerometer-measured total sedentary behaviour was on average 420 minutes per day (SE 4.26), or 53% (SE 0.42%) of monitored time. There were no statistically significant differences in time spent in sedentary behaviour among overweight, obese and healthy/underweight young people. Both subjective and objective methods indicate that NZ youth spend much of their waking time being sedentary. No relationships were found between sedentary behaviour and BMI status. These findings extend previous research by describing engagement in specific sedentary activities, as well as quantifying the behaviour using an objective method. Differences in what aspects of sedentary behaviour the two methods are capturing are discussed. This research highlights the potential for future interventions to target specific sedentary behaviours or demographic groups.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 06-03-2020
DOI: 10.1002/OBY.22755
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 25-11-2016
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 26-08-2010
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 18-02-2009
DOI: 10.1038/EJCN.2009.7
Abstract: There are abundant data on secular trends in the body mass index (BMI) of children. However, BMI is an imperfect index of fatness, whereas skinfold thicknesses provide a more direct measure. This study aims to meta-analyse historical studies of triceps and subscapular skinfold thicknesses in young people aged 0-18 years in developed countries. A total of 154 studies conducted between 1951 and 2003 were analysed, covering 2390 reports at the age x sex x country level, and more than 458,547 young people from 30 developed countries. Percentage body fat (% BF) was estimated using the Slaughter equations. The distribution of fat on the body was indexed by the triceps/subscapular (T/S) ratio. The skewness of skinfold distributions was operationalized by the coefficient of variation and the mean-median difference. There have been increases in triceps and subscapular skinfold thicknesses, at the rate of 0.4-0.5 mm per decade over the period 1951-2003. % BF has been increasing at the rate of 0.9% BF per decade. The distribution of fat on the body, as indexed by the triceps/subscapular (T/S) ratio, has become more central. There has been an increasing positive skew in the distribution of subcutaneous fat thickness in the population. These trends describe very unfavourable changes in the body composition of young people, foreshadowing a potential increase in the incidence of cardiovascular and metabolic disease.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 20-05-2005
DOI: 10.1007/S00421-005-1321-8
Abstract: The purpose of the present article is to identify the most appropriate method of scaling VO2max for differences in body mass when assessing the energy cost of time-trial cycling. The data from three time-trial cycling studies were analysed (N = 79) using a proportional power-function ANCOVA model. The maximum oxygen uptake-to-mass ratio found to predict cycling speed was VO2max(m)(-0.32) precisely the same as that derived by Swain for sub-maximal cycling speeds (10, 15 and 20 mph). The analysis was also able to confirm a proportional curvilinear association between cycling speed and energy cost, given by (VO2max(m)(-0.32))0.41. The model predicts, for ex le, that for a male cyclist (72 kg) to increase his average speed from 30 km h(-1) to 35 km h(-1), he would require an increase in VO2max from 2.36 l min(-1) to 3.44 l min(-1), an increase of 1.08 l min(-1). In contrast, for the cyclist to increase his mean speed from 40 km h(-1) to 45 km h(-1), he would require a greater increase in VO2max from 4.77 l min(-1) to 6.36 l min(-1), i.e. an increase of 1.59 l min(-1). The model is also able to accommodate other determinants of time-trial cycling, e.g. the benefit of cycling with a side wind (5% faster) compared with facing a predominately head/tail wind (P<0.05). Future research could explore whether the same scaling approach could be applied to, for ex le, alternative measures of recording power output to improve the prediction of time-trial cycling performance.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2015
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 06-01-2022
DOI: 10.1186/S12966-021-01236-2
Abstract: In 2018, the Australian Government updated the Australian Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour Guidelines for Children and Young People. A requirement of this update was the incorporation of a 24-hour approach to movement, recognising the importance of adequate sleep. The purpose of this paper was to describe how the updated Australian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines for Children and Young People (5 to 17 years): an integration of physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep were developed and the outcomes from this process . The GRADE-ADOLOPMENT approach was used to develop the guidelines. A Leadership Group was formed, who identified existing credible guidelines. The Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines for Children and Youth best met the criteria established by the Leadership Group. These guidelines were evaluated based on the evidence in the GRADE tables, summaries of findings tables and recommendations from the Canadian Guidelines. We conducted updates to each of the Canadian systematic reviews. A Guideline Development Group reviewed, separately and in combination, the evidence for each behaviour. A choice was then made to adopt or adapt the Canadian recommendations for each behaviour or create de novo recommendations. We then conducted an online survey (n=237) along with three focus groups (n=11 in total) and 13 key informant interviews. Stakeholders used these to provide feedback on the draft guidelines. Based on the evidence from the Canadian systematic reviews and the updated systematic reviews in Australia, the Guideline Development Group agreed to adopt the Canadian recommendations and, apart from some minor changes to the wording of good practice statements, maintain the wording of the guidelines, preamble, and title of the Canadian Guidelines. The Australian Guidelines provide evidence-informed recommendations for a healthy day (24-hours), integrating physical activity, sedentary behaviour (including limits to screen time), and sleep for children (5-12 years) and young people (13-17 years). To our knowledge, this is only the second time the GRADE-ADOLOPMENT approach has been used to develop movement behaviour guidelines. The judgments of the Australian Guideline Development Group did not differ sufficiently to change the directions and strength of the recommendations and as such, the Canadian Guidelines were adopted with only very minor alterations. This allowed the Australian Guidelines to be developed in a shorter time frame and at a lower cost. We recommend the GRADE-ADOLOPMENT approach, especially if a credible set of guidelines that was developed using the GRADE approach is available with all supporting materials. Other countries may consider this approach when developing and/or revising national movement guidelines.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2015
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2021
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2015
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 23-12-2019
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 21-03-2202
DOI: 10.1111/IJPO.13029
Abstract: Evidence shows children gain more weight during the summer holidays versus the school year. To examine within‐child differences in activity and diet behaviours during the summer holidays versus the school year. Children (mean age 9.4 years 37% male) wore accelerometers (GENEActiv n = 133), reported activities (Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adolescents n = 133) and parents reported child diet ( n = 133) at five timepoints over 2 years capturing school and summer holiday values. Mixed‐effects models were used to compare school and summer holiday behaviours. Children spent less time in moderate‐ to vigorous‐physical activity (−12 min/day p = 0.001) and sleep (−12 min/day p 0.001) and more time sedentary (+27 min/day p 0.001) during summer holidays versus the school year. Screentime (+70 min/day p 0.001), domestic/social activities (+43 min/day p = .001), self‐care (+24 min/day p 0.001), passive transport (+22 min/day p = 0.001) and quiet time (+16 min/day p = 0.012) were higher during the summer holidays, compensating for less time in school‐related activities (−164 min/day p 0.001). Diet quality was lower (−4 points p 0.001) and children consumed fewer serves of fruit (−0.4 serves p 0.001) during the summer holidays versus the school year. Children are displaying poorer activity and diet behaviours during the summer holidays, which may contribute to accelerated weight gain over the holiday period.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2015
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2015
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2015
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2008
Abstract: If descriptors of the sensation of breathlessness are able to differentiate between medical conditions, the language of breathlessness could potentially have a role in differential diagnosis. This study investigated whether the language used to describe the sensation of breathlessness accurately categorized older in iduals with and without a prior diagnosis of COPD. Using a parallel-group design, participants with and without a prior diagnosis of COPD volunteered words and phrases and endorsed up to three statements to describe their sensation of breathlessness. Cluster analysis (v-fold cross-validation) was applied, and subjects were clustered by their choice of words. Cluster membership was then compared to original group membership (COPD vs non-COPD), and predictive power was assessed. Groups were similar for age and gender (COPD, n = 94 48 men mean age, 70 +/- 10 years [+/- SD] vs non-COPD, n = 55 21 men mean age, 69 +/- 13 years) but differed significantly in breathlessness-related impairment, intensity, and quality of life (p < 0.0001). Cluster membership corresponded accurately with original group classifications (volunteered, 85% and up to three statements, 68% agreement). Classification based on a single best descriptor (volunteered [62%] or endorsed [55%]) was less accurate for group membership. Language used to describe the sensation of breathlessness differentiated people with and without a prior diagnosis of COPD when descriptors were not limited to a single best word or statement.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2015
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-10-2013
Abstract: Retirement is a major life transition during which people restructure everyday activities however little is known about this. The primary aim of the Life After Work study is to comprehensively measure changes in time use and patterns of physical activity and sedentary behaviour, and its associations with health and wellbeing, across the retirement transition. A target s le of 120 participants aged 50 years and over will be recruited in two Australian state capital cities, Adelaide and Brisbane. Participants will undertake a battery of assessments approximately 3 months prior to retirement, and 3, 6 and 12 months post-retirement. Measures will include self-reported use of time (using the Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adults), objectively assessed physical activity and sedentary behaviour (using Actigraph GT3X+ accelerometers), self-reported health and well-being (using a battery of questionnaires including the Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36), Australian Unity Personal Well-being Index (AUPWI), Depression Anxiety Stress Scales 21 (DASS21), Short Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale, UCLA Loneliness Scale, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale), retirement circumstances and socio-demographic characteristics, objectively assessed anthropometric measures (height, weight and waist circumference), and resting blood pressure. Multivariate mixed models will be used to examine changes in use of time, health and well-being across retirement. The results will provide important new information that will inform the development of lifestyle and policy interventions to address and improve health and well-being in retirement.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.EXGER.2022.111971
Abstract: People's perceptions of the mental effort required for everyday activities may drive variation in the relationships between lifestyles and cognitive ability. We asked n = 259 healthy older adults aged 60 to 70 years (90 males, 169 females) to provide a rating of the Perceived Mental Effort (PME) for each activity instance they recalled over a 48-h period as part of a time-use recall. PME was rated on a 9-point scale from "very, very low" (score of 1) to "very, very high" (score of 9). Across the entire s le, participants rated a total of 196 different activities and 17,433 activity instances. The mean PME for in idual activities was 3.50 ± 1.58. PMEs varied significantly by activity domain, with highest ratings being for Work (5.48 ± 1.72) and the lowest for Self-Care (2.89 ± 0.98). In multivariate analyses, PME ratings were higher in males than females (+0.30), PMEs were higher later in the day, increased with task duration, and decreased with age (all p < 0.0001). Time-weighted average in idual PMEs across the two days of recall ranged from 1.86 to 6.50, and were 0.3 units higher for males, but unrelated to age. Repeated intra-in idual PME ratings for the same activity were very reliable (ICC = 0.995, mean absolute difference = 0.03 ± 0.17). PMEs show promise as a reliable measure of mental effort.
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 02-2019
Abstract: Purpose : This study investigated the relationship between outdoor time and physical activity (PA), sedentary time (SED), and body mass index z scores among children from 12 lower-middle-income, upper-middle-income, and high-income countries. Methods : In total, 6478 children (54.4% girls) aged 9–11 years participated. Outdoor time was self-reported, PA and SED were assessed with ActiGraph GT3X+ accelerometers, and height and weight were measured. Data on parental education, neighborhood collective efficacy, and accessibility to neighborhood recreation facilities were collected from parent questionnaires. Country latitude and climate statistics were collected through national weather data sources. Gender-stratified multilevel models with parental education, climate, and neighborhood variables as covariates were used to examine the relationship between outdoor time, accelerometry measures, and body mass index z scores. Results : Each additional hour per day spent outdoors was associated with higher moderate- to vigorous-intensity PA (boys: +2.8 min/d girls: +1.4 min/d), higher light-intensity PA (boys: +2.0 min/d girls: +2.3 min/d), and lower SED (boys: −6.3 min/d girls: −5.1 min/d). Effect sizes were generally weaker in lower-middle-income countries. Outdoor time was not associated with body mass index z scores. Conclusions : Outdoor time was associated with higher PA and lower SED independent of climate, parental education, and neighborhood variables, but effect sizes were small. However, more research is needed in low- and middle-income countries.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 23-01-2018
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2010
Abstract: Previous studies of the qualitative sensation of breathlessness have suggested that greater sensory discomfort is reported as airflow obstruction increases. This study investigated relationships between the language of breathlessness and severity of impairment in subjects with COPD. Using a prospective, observational approach, subjects completed a structured interview in which they volunteered words to describe their sensation of breathlessness and endorsed statements from a preexisting descriptor list. Global impairment was assessed by the BMI, airflow obstruction, dyspnea, and exercise capacity (BODE) index. Independent t tests and logistic regression analyses (odds ratios) were used to assess relationships between language categories and severity of impairment. In this group of 91 people (47 men, 70 +/- 10 years of age, percent predicted FEV(1) 54 +/- 23), subjects volunteering extreme affective descriptors (frightening, awful, worried) had greater impairment (BODE index, perceived respiratory disability, functional exercise capacity, and airways obstruction), and this language category was significantly associated with increasing BODE index scores (odds ratio [OR] = 1.49 95% CI, 1.18 to 1.86 P = .001). Descriptors denoting heavy, rapid, more, shallow, or does not go in or out all the way were significantly less likely to be selected as BODE index scored increased (OR = 0.75 95% CI, 0.16 to 0.93). Affective descriptors or the emotional response to the sensation of breathlessness have a significant relationship with severity of COPD impairments. Affective descriptors may reflect the degree of threat imposed by the sensation and predict the likelihood of long-term behavioral changes.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2010
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2015
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 02-2020
Abstract: Background : Substantial evidence links activity domains with health and well-being however, research has typically examined time-use behaviors independently, rather than considering daily activity as a 24-hour time-use composition. This study used compositional data analysis to estimate the difference in physical and mental well-being associated with reallocating time between behaviors. Methods : Participants (n = 430 74% female 41 [12] y) wore an accelerometer for 7 days and reported their body mass index health-related quality of life (QoL) and symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. Regression models determined whether time-use composition, comprising sleep, sedentary behavior, light physical activity (LPA), and moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA), was associated with well-being. Compositional isotemporal substitution models estimated the difference in well-being associated with reallocating time between behaviors. Results : Time-use composition was associated with body mass index and physical health-related QoL. Reallocating time to MVPA from sleep, sedentary behavior, and LPA showed favorable associations with body mass index and physical health-related QoL, whereas reallocations from MVPA to other behaviors showed unfavorable associations. Reallocations from LPA to sedentary behavior were associated with better physical health–related QoL and vice versa. Conclusion : Results reinforce the importance of MVPA for physical health but do not suggest that replacing sedentary behavior with LPA is beneficial for health and well-being.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2015
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2015
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 14-03-2023
DOI: 10.1186/S12966-023-01414-4
Abstract: Weather is a potentially important influence on how time is allocated to sleep, sedentary behaviour and physical activity across the 24-h day. Extremes of weather (very hot, cold, windy or wet) can create undesirable, unsafe outdoor environments for exercise or active transport, impact the comfort of sleeping environments, and increase time indoors. This 13-month prospective cohort study explored associations between weather and 24-h movement behaviour patterns. Three hundred sixty-eight adults (mean age 40.2 years, SD 5.9, 56.8% female) from Adelaide, Australia, wore Fitbit Charge 3 activity trackers 24 h a day for 13 months with minute-by-minute data on sleep, sedentary behaviour, light physical activity (LPA), and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) collected remotely. Daily weather data included temperature, rainfall, wind, cloud and sunshine. Multi-level mixed-effects linear regression analyses (one model per outcome) were used. Ninety thousand eight hundred one days of data were analysed. Sleep was negatively associated with minimum temperature (-12 min/day change across minimum temperature range of 31.2 °C, p = 0.001). Sedentary behaviour was positively associated with minimum temperature (+ 12 min/day, range = 31.2 oC, p = 0.006) and wind speed (+ 10 min/day, range = 36.7 km/h, p 0.001), and negatively associated with sunshine (-17 min/day, range = 13.9 h, p 0.001). LPA was positively associated with minimum temperature (+ 11 min/day, range = 31.2 °C, p = 0.002), cloud cover (+ 4 min/day, range = 8 eighths, p = 0.008) and sunshine (+ 17 min/day, range = 13.9 h, p 0.001), and negatively associated with wind speed (-8 min/day, range = 36.7 km/h, p 0.001). MVPA was positively associated with sunshine (+ 3 min/day, range = 13.9 h, p 0.001) and negatively associated with minimum temperature (-13 min/day, range = 31.2 oC, p 0.001), rainfall (-3 min/day, range = 33.2 mm, p = 0.006) and wind speed (-4 min/day, range = 36.7 km/h, p 0.001). For maximum temperature, a significant ( p 0.05) curvilinear association was observed with sleep (half-U) and physical activity (inverted-U), where the decrease in sleep duration appeared to slow around 23 °C, LPA peaked at 31 oC and MVPA at 27 °C. Generally, adults tended to be less active and more sedentary during extremes of weather and sleep less as temperatures rise. These findings have the potential to inform the timing and content of positive movement behaviour messaging and interventions. The study was prospectively registered on the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry (Trial ID: ACTRN12619001430123).
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 15-01-2014
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc
Date: 04-2021
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-01-2020
DOI: 10.1186/S12874-020-0896-4
Abstract: This study examined the criterion validity of the online Active Australia Survey, using accelerometry as the criterion, and whether self-report bias was related to level of activity, age, sex, education, body mass index and health-related quality of life. The online Active Australia Survey was validated against the GENEActiv accelerometer as a direct measure of activity. Participants ( n = 344) wore an accelerometer for 7 days, completed the Active Australia Survey, and reported their health and demographic characteristics. A Spearman’s rank coefficient examined the association between minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity recorded on the Active Australia Survey and GENEActiv accelerometer. A Bland-Altman plot illustrated self-report bias (the difference between methods). Linear mixed effects modelling was used to examine whether participant factors predicted self-report bias. The association between moderate-to-vigorous physical activity reported on the online Active Australia Survey and accelerometer was significant ( r s = .27, p .001). Participants reported 4 fewer minutes per day on the Active Australia Survey than was recorded by accelerometry (95% limits of agreement −104 – 96 min) but the difference was not significant ( t (343) = −1.40, p = .16). Self-report bias was negatively associated with minutes of accelerometer-recorded moderate-to-vigorous physical activity and positively associated with mental health-related quality of life. The online Active Australia Survey showed limited criterion validity against accelerometry. Self-report bias was related to activity level and mental health-related quality of life. Caution is recommended when interpreting studies using the online Active Australia Survey.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 29-11-2011
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2002
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 02-03-2018
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.SLEH.2019.08.002
Abstract: This study aimed to investigate sleep patterns in adolescent males over a 12-week period (a 10-week school term and pre and post term holidays). Intensive longitudinal design, with sleep data collected daily via actigraphy for 81 consecutive days. Five Secondary Schools in Adelaide, South Australia. Convenience s le of 47 adolescent males aged 14 to 17 years. Daily sleep duration, bedtimes, rise times, and sleep efficiency were collected via actigraphy with all (except sleep efficiency) also measured by sleep diary. Mood was measured weekly with Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21) and weekly wellbeing with the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS). Age, body mass index, self-reported mood, life satisfaction, and chronotype preference assessed at baseline (pre-term holiday week) were included as covariates. Dynamic Structural Equation Modeling indicated significant but small fixed-effect and random-effect auto-regressions for all sleep variables. Collectively, these findings demonstrate day-to-day fluctuations in sleep patterns, the magnitude of which varied between in iduals. Age, morningness, and mood predicted some of the temporal dynamics in sleep over time but other factors (BMI, life satisfaction) were not associated with sleep dynamics. Using intensive longitudinal data, this study demonstrated inter-in idual and intra-in idual variation in sleep patterns over 81 consecutive days. These findings provide important and novel insights into the nature of adolescent sleep and require further examination in future studies.
Publisher: Universidad de Costa Rica
Date: 25-10-2023
Publisher: Georg Thieme Verlag KG
Date: 1996
Abstract: Infrared (IR) thermometers (FirstTemp 2000A, Intelligent Medical Systems, California) were used to monitor tympanic temperature (Tty) in 12 collapsed fun-runners suspected of suffering exertion-induced heat exhaustion (EIHE). Rectal temperature (Tre) was monitored via digital clinical thermometers. Conditions during the fun-run and in the field treatment centre were cool (air temperature 16-18 degrees C, relative humidity 60-65%). On admission, Tty was (mean +/- SEM) 1.2 +/- 0.3 degrees C lower than Tre. For admission plus subsequent monitoring data pooled, although Tty correlated significantly with Tre (r = 0.86, p < 0.001), mean Tty (37.4 +/- 0.2 degrees C) was significantly lower (p or = 37.1 degrees C predicted a Tre > or = 38 degrees C (an established diagnostic criterion for EIHE) with a sensitivity of 0.93 and a specificity of 0.63. These data indicate that IR tympanic thermometry, when utilised in cool environments, can result in misdiagnosis of heat exhaustion. Although IR thermometry shows some promise as a rapid, non-invasive means of monitoring core temperature, it should not be used in the diagnosis and treatment of heat exhaustion unless further research validates the method.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 20-10-2021
DOI: 10.1111/PAI.13383
Abstract: Previous research suggests that children who experience asthma may be less physically active however, results have been inconclusive. This study aimed to investigate whether the presence of asthma or wheeze is associated with lower physical activity levels in children, and whether sex, body mass index or earlier asthma or wheeze status modifies the association. This study was conducted in 391 HealthNuts participants in Melbourne, Australia. Asthma and wheeze data were collected via questionnaire at age 4 and 6, and physical activity was measured through accelerometry. Using adjusted linear regression models, the cross‐sectional and longitudinal associations were investigated. There was no evidence of a difference in time spent in moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity (MVPA) at age 6 years between children with and without asthma at age 4 children with asthma spent 8.3 minutes more time physically active per day (95% CI: −5.6, 22.1, P = .24) than children without asthma. Similar results were seen for children with current wheeze (5.8 minutes per day more, 95% CI: −5.9, 17.5, P = .33) or ever wheeze or asthma (7.7 minutes per day more, 95% CI: −4.8, 20.2, P = .23) at age 4 years. Comparable null results were observed in the cross‐sectional analyses. Interaction with BMI could not be assessed however, previous asthma or wheeze status and sex were not found to modify these associations. This analysis found no evidence of asthma hindering physical activity in these young children. These results are encouraging, as they indicate that the Australian asthma and physical activity public health c aigns are being effectively communicated and adopted by the public.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 23-01-2021
DOI: 10.1093/TBM/IBAA139
Abstract: Technology-based physical activity programs are a novel solution to the major public health issue of physical inactivity. However, to be successful, there must be a large and population-appropriate uptake, which depends heavily on promotion. This study evaluates the effectiveness of an advertising c aign to disseminate a physical activity smartphone app. The experiment used a 3 × 3 × 3 full-factorial design, examining platforms (Facebook Facebook Messenger Instagram), selling-techniques (hard-sell—sending viewers directly to (a) Apple Store or (b) Google Play, and soft-sell—sending viewers from an ad to a (c) landing-page, then to an app store) and themes (Health and Wellbeing Body and Self-Confidence Social Enjoyment). Outcomes were reach, click-through, and app downloads. Advertisements reached 1,373,273 people, achieving 2,989 clicks and 667 downloads. Instagram and Facebook Messenger had higher reach compared to Facebook (F[2,27] = 27.17, p & .001), whilst Facebook and Facebook Messenger both produced higher click-through (F[2,27] = 8.98, p & .001) and downloads (F[2,27] = 4.649, p = .018). Selling-technique differed, with soft-selling ads producing greater reach (F[2,27] = 4,616.077, p & .001) however, both hard-selling ads (Apple Store and Google Play) had greater click-through (F[2,27] = 10.77, p & .001) and downloads (F[2,27] = 3.791, p & .001). Advertising theme varied, with Social Enjoyment themes producing less click-through (F[2,27] = 5.709, p = .009) and downloads (F[2,27] = 5.480, p = .010). We recommend future studies to consider Facebook and Facebook Messenger, using hard-selling techniques, with themes relating to Health and Wellbeing and Body and Self-Confidence.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 16-08-2021
DOI: 10.1093/TBM/IBAB101
Abstract: Social media provides a convenient platform for health c aigns. However, practitioners designing such c aigns are faced with a number of decisions regarding advertising formats and appeals. This study set out to compare the effectiveness of two advertising formats (image vs. video) and two advertising appeals (benefits of being active vs. app attributes and features) for promoting a physical-activity smartphone app. The advertising experiment was conducted on Facebook and employed a 2 × 2 full-factorial experimental design, examining two advertising formats: image versus video and two advertising appeals: benefit versus attribute. Outcome measures were advertisement cost (number of viewers reached according to the amount spent) and consumer engagement (rates of advertisement click-through and app downloads). Chi-Square analysis revealed that advertisement cost was found to differ according to the type of advertising format used, with image advertisements achieving a greater audience reach than video advertisements (χ 2(1) = 905.292, p & .001). Consumer engagement also differed according to advertising format and appeal: images achieved high rates of advertisement click-through (2.7% vs. 1.9% χ 2(1) = 196.9, p & .001) and app downloads (0.6% vs. 0.5% χ 2(1) = 4.0, p = .044) compared with videos. Furthermore, benefit appeal advertisements were more effective than attribute appeals, yielding a greater rate of advertisement click-through (2.8% vs. 1.8% χ 2(1) = 282.2, p & .001) and app downloads (0.7% vs. 0.4% χ 2(1) =106.0, p & .001). Overall, image advertisements were seen to be the most cost-effective and engaging. Advertisements employing a benefit appeal achieved greater consumer engagement than and attribute appeal advertisements.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2013
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 10-2006
DOI: 10.1080/02640410500432193
Abstract: This study is a meta-analysis of 109 reports of the performance of children and adolescents on the 20-m shuttle run test (20-mSRT). The studies were performed in 37 countries and included data on 418,026 children, tested between 1981 and 2003. Results were expressed as running speed (km x h(-1)) at the final completed stage of the 20-mSRT. Raw data were combined with pseudodata using Monte Carlo simulation. The 20-mSRT performances were expressed as z-scores relative to all children of the same age and sex from all countries. An overall "performance index" was derived for each country as the average of the age- and sex-specific z-scores for all children from that country. Factorial analysis of variance was used to compare scores among countries and regions, and between boys and girls of the same age. There was wide and significant (P < 0.0001) global variability in the performance of children. The best performing children were from the Northern European countries Estonia, Iceland, Lithuania, and Finland (0.6 - 0.9 standard deviations above the global average). The worst performing children were from Singapore, Brazil, USA, Italy, Portugal, and Greece (0.4 - 0.9 standard deviations below the global average). There is evidence that performance was negatively related to being overweight, as well as to a country's average temperature.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2020
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 21-05-2007
DOI: 10.1111/J.1469-8749.2007.00450.X
Abstract: Participation in regular physical activity (PA) provides health, psychological, and physiological benefits for people with and without a physical disability. This study investigated the physical and sedentary activity patterns of adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP). A cross-sectional, descriptive, postal survey was used, consisting of the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Adolescents (PAQ-A), self-reported level of gross motor function (based on the Gross Motor Function Classification System [GMFCS]), and specific questions regarding weekly sedentary activities. Following piloting to determine test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation [ICC] for PA=0.90 total weekly sedentary time=0.84) and concurrent validity (survey PA score vs pedometry, Pearson's r=0.24 survey PA score vs accelerometry, r=-0.21 survey weekly sedentary time vs logbook, r=0.38), the survey was mailed to all adolescents with CP in South Australia registered with Novita Children's Services (n=219). One hundred and twelve valid surveys were returned (76 males, 36 females age range 11-17y, mean age 13y 11mo [SD 23mo] GMFCS Level I, n=42 Level II, n=27 Level III, n=10 Level IV, n=17 Level V, n=15 level not reported, n=1). Results were compared with recent normative age- and sex-matched data sets. Key findings were that PA level of adolescents with CP was related to level of gross motor function and inversely related to age, and that adolescents with CP were less physically active than their peers without disability. Comparisons with normative data sets suggested that adolescents with CP tend to participate in less structured and lower intensity PA compared with non-disabled adolescents, though sedentary activity patterns (TV and computer use) of adolescents with and without CP were similar.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2023
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 03-03-2021
DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0248008
Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically impacted lifestyle behaviour as public health initiatives aim to “flatten the curve”. This study examined changes in activity patterns (physical activity, sedentary time, sleep), recreational physical activities, diet, weight and wellbeing from before to during COVID-19 restrictions in Adelaide, Australia. This study used data from a prospective cohort of Australian adults (parents of primary school-aged children n = 61, 66% female, aged 41±6 years). Participants wore a Fitbit Charge 3 activity monitor and weighed themselves daily using Wi-Fi scales. Activity and weight data were extracted for 14 days before (February 2020) and 14 days during (April 2020) COVID-19 restrictions. Participants reported their recreational physical activity, diet and wellbeing during these periods. Linear mixed effects models were used to examine change over time. Participants slept 27 minutes longer (95% CI 9–51), got up 38 minutes later (95% CI 25–50), and did 50 fewer minutes (95% CI -69–-29) of light physical activity during COVID-19 restrictions. Additionally, participants engaged in more cycling but less swimming, team sports and boating or sailing. Participants consumed a lower percentage of energy from protein (-0.8, 95% CI -1.5–-0.1) and a greater percentage of energy from alcohol (0.9, 95% CI 0.2–1.7). There were no changes in weight or wellbeing. Overall, the effects of COVID-19 restrictions on lifestyle were small however, their impact on health and wellbeing may accumulate over time. Further research examining the effects of ongoing social distancing restrictions are needed as the pandemic continues.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 05-2018
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.ORCP.2018.09.001
Abstract: The importance of different constructs of sedentary behaviours in relation to childhood obesity is uncertain. Thus, this study aimed to investigate relationships between volume, patterns and types of sedentary behaviour and adiposity in children. A case-control study was undertaken involving 234 children aged 10-13years who were either of a healthy-weight (74 boys, 56 girls) or classified as obese (56 boys, 48 girls). Percent body fat (by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) and waist-to-height ratio were assessed. Time, type (television, videogame, computer, eating, passive transport) and bout length of sedentary behaviours were measured using accelerometry and the Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adolescents. Time use (total daily energy expenditure, sleep, physical activity), age, household income and Tanner stage were covariates in sex-stratified partial least squares analyses. Daily energy expenditure and income were negatively associated with adiposity for both sexes. Television time was consistently positively associated with adiposity. In boys only, prolonged bouts of sedentary behaviour and time spent playing video games/computer were positively linked with adiposity. Non-screen sedentary behaviour was negatively associated with adiposity in girls. Independent of total energy expenditure, total sedentary time was only inconsistently associated with fatness. These data suggest that (1) characteristics of sedentary time other than duration are associated with adiposity in children, and (2) associations may be sex-specific.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 16-11-2020
DOI: 10.1093/SLEEP/ZSZ200
Abstract: Poor sleep patterns in older adults are associated with chromosomal telomere shortening, a marker of cellular senescence. However, studies have relied on self-reported sleep characteristics, with few data for younger in iduals. We investigated whether sleep measured via actigraphy was cross-sectionally associated with telomere length in children and midlife adults. A population-based s le of 1874 11–12 year olds and midlife adults (mean age 44 years, SD 5.1) had biological and physical assessments at centers across Australia in 2015–2016. Sleep characteristics, including duration, onset, offset, day-to-day variability, and efficiency, were derived from actigraphy. Relative telomere length (T/S ratio) was measured by quantitative polymerase chain reaction on genomic DNA from peripheral blood. Multivariable regression models estimated associations, adjusting for prespecified confounders. Both sleep and telomere data were available for 728 children and 1070 adults. Mean (SD) T/S ratio was 1.09 (0.55) in children and 0.81 (0.38) in adults. T/S ratio was not predicted by sleep duration (β 0.04, 95% confidence interval [CI] −0.02 to 0.09, p = .16, children β −0.004, 95% CI −0.03 to 0.02, p = .70, adults) or most other sleep metrics. The only exception was a weak association between later sleep timing (the midpoint of sleep onset and offset) and longer telomeres in adults (β 0.03, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.06, p = .01). Objective sleep characteristics show no convincing associations with telomere length in two largely healthy populations up to at least midlife. Sleep–telomere associations may be a late-life occurrence or may present only with a trigger such as presence of other morbidities.
Publisher: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
Date: 03-2012
Abstract: There is a common belief that children are not getting enough sleep and that children’s total sleep time has been declining. Over the century, many authors have proposed sleep recommendations. The aim of this study was to describe historical trends in recommended and actual sleep durations for children and adolescents, and to explore the rationale of sleep recommendations. A systematic literature review was conducted to identify recommendations for children’s sleep requirements and data reporting children’s actual total sleep time. For each recommendation identified, children’s actual sleep time was determined by identifying studies reporting the sleep duration of children of the same age, gender, and country in the same years. Historical trends in age-adjusted recommended sleep times and trends in children’s actual sleep time were calculated. A thematic analysis was conducted to determine the rationale and evidence-base for recommendations. Thirty-two sets of recommendations were located dating from 1897 to 2009. On average, age-specific recommended sleep decreased at the rate of –0.71 minute per year. This rate of decline was almost identical to the decline in the actual sleep duration of children (–0.73 minute per year). Recommended sleep was consistently ∼37 minutes greater than actual sleep, although both declined over time. A lack of empirical evidence for sleep recommendations was universally acknowledged. Inadequate sleep was seen as a consequence of “modern life,” associated with technologies of the time. No matter how much sleep children are getting, it has always been assumed that they need more.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 03-10-2011
Publisher: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
Date: 05-2012
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 24-03-2016
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 24-05-2017
DOI: 10.1002/OBY.21792
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2010
DOI: 10.1111/J.1753-6405.2010.00502.X
Abstract: This study aimed to explore sleep duration in young Australians on different types of days across weight classes. Use of time and anthropometric data were collected on 8,866 nights from 3,884 9-18 year old Australians. The association between sleep duration and weight status was examined using factorial ANOVA for four day types: S-S (to bed and waking on school days) S-NS (to bed on school day and waking on non-school day) NS-NS (to bed and waking on non-school days) NS-S (to bed on non-school day and waking on school day). Sleep duration varied with weight status when all day types were considered together (p=0.0012). Obese adolescents slept less than normal and underweight adolescents. However, the relationship varied for different day types with the strongest relationship for NS-S days (on which obese children slept 65 min less than very underweight children, p<0.0001). The association between weight status and sleep duration showed consistent gradients across weight categories, but only for certain day types. These patterns cast light on the direction of causation in the obesity-sleep duration relationship. Findings suggest that short sleep duration contributes to obesity, or that a third unidentified factor has an impact on both.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.SMRV.2011.03.005
Abstract: Sleep deficits are associated with a wide range of detrimental physical and mental health outcomes. There is concern that children are not getting enough sleep, and that sleep duration has been declining. However, evidence is sparse. A systematic review of world literature was conducted to locate studies reporting the sleep duration of children aged 5-18 years. Monte Carlo simulation was used to generate pseudodata from summary data, which were combined with raw data and analysed by linear regression of sleep duration on year of measurement at the age × sex × day type × country level. Data were available on 690,747 children from 20 countries, dating from 1905 to 2008. From these data, 641 regressions were derived. The s le-weighted median rate of change was -0.75 min nightly per year, indicating a decrease of more than 1 h per night over the study period. Rates of change were negative across age, sex and day type categories, but varied according to region, with Europe, the USA, Canada and Asia showing decreases and Australia, the UK and Scandinavia showing increases. Over the last 103 years, there have been consistent rapid declines in the sleep duration of children and adolescents.
Publisher: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
Date: 04-2021
Abstract: In this population-based cohort of 1179 children 11 to 12 years of age, equivalent benefits to adiposity and HRQoL were associated with different changes (trade-offs) in activities. Understanding equivalence of time-use trade-offs may inform tailored lifestyle choices. We explored which time reallocations were associated with equivalent changes in children’s health outcomes. Participants were from the cross-sectional Child Health CheckPoint Study (N = 1181 11–12 years 50% boys) nested within the population-based Longitudinal Study of Australian Children. Outcomes were adiposity (bioelectrical impedance analysis, BMI and waist girth), self-reported health-related quality of life (HRQoL Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory), and academic achievement (standardized national tests). Participants’ 24-hour time use (sleep, sedentary behavior, light physical activity, and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity [MVPA]) from 8-day 24-hour accelerometry was regressed against outcomes by using compositional log-ratio linear regression models. Children with lower adiposity and higher HRQoL had more MVPA (both P & .001) and sleep (P = .002 P = .008), and less sedentary time (P = .02 P = .001) and light physical activity (P & .001 P = .04), each relative to remaining activities. Children with better academic achievement had more sedentary time (P = .03) and less light physical activity (P = .006), each relative to remaining activities. A 0.1 standardized decrease in adiposity was associated with either 55 minutes more sleep, 89 minutes less sedentary time, 34 minutes less light physical activity, or 19 minutes more MVPA. A 0.1 standardized increase in HRQoL was associated with either 64 minutes more sleep, 65 minutes less sedentary time, 72 minutes less light physical activity, or 29 minutes more MVPA. Equivalent differences in outcomes were associated with several time reallocations. On a minute-for-minute basis, MVPA was 2 to 6 times as potent as sleep or sedentary time.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 06-2019
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 08-05-2014
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-1999
DOI: 10.1016/S1440-2440(99)80011-5
Abstract: Australian football has undergone considerable change over the past century. This evolution seems to have accelerated more recently since the introduction and major influence of the media, increased professionalism and the start of a national competition. In this study we have attempted to quantify the evolution in game 'style' by measuring events during elite football games (from video analysis) and gathering physical information on players involved at the highest level. These data are important to gain insight into the game demands so that player preparation may be enhanced and when predicting the nature of the game in the future. Understanding the patterns of play within the game may also be useful when assessing the possible impact of rule changes, for ex le, increasing the number of interchange players on the potential for injury. Four games were selected, one from each of the past 4 decades to determine the rate at which specific, measurable events occurred in the games. Height and mass data on players were also obtained from official records of registered players in the VFL/AFL competitions. The results indicate the 'speed' of the game has approximately doubled in the period 1961-1997. The proportion of the total game which involves 'play' time has been reduced significantly while breaks in play are more frequent and longer. Despite this pattern, however, the average game tempo has increased along with player height and mass and we present a case which suggests these are likely determinants of the increased incidence of player injuries and lost match time.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.JADOHEALTH.2018.05.025
Abstract: Puberty marks a transition in risk for body image disturbance and disordered eating. Yet few studies have examined these symptoms across puberty and none have examined links with adrenarche, the earliest phase in the pubertal hormonal cascade. Levels of adrenal androgens (dehydroepiandrosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate, and testosterone) were measured in a population-based study of 8- to 9-year-old children (516 males and 621 females). Body dissatisfaction was measured using the Kids' Eating Disorder Scale Silhouettes. Covariates included body mass index, age, and socioeconomic status. There were significant associations between adrenal androgen levels and greater body dissatisfaction in both males and females. Specifically, females with more advanced levels of dehydroepiandrosterone and testosterone relative to peers, and males with more advanced levels of testosterone relative to peers, reported greater body dissatisfaction. However, after adjusting for covariates, hormones levels were no longer associated with body dissatisfaction, and only higher body mass index had a clear association with body dissatisfaction. The adrenarchal transition brings a heightened risk for body dissatisfaction. Whether this arises from the neuroendocrine effects of adrenal androgens or as a reaction to the greater body mass that accompanies adrenarche requires further exploration.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2003
DOI: 10.2165/00007256-200333040-00003
Abstract: It is widely believed that the performance of children and adolescents on aerobic fitness tests is declining. To test this hypothesis, this meta-analysis compared the results of 55 reports of the performance of children and adolescents aged 6-19 years who have used the 20m shuttle run test (20mSRT). All data were collected in the period 1981-2000. Following corrections for methodological variation, the results of all studies were expressed using the common metric of running speed (km/h) at the last completed stage. Raw data were combined with pseudodata generated from reported means and standard deviations using Monte Carlo simulation. Where data were available on children and adolescents from the same country of the same age and sex, but tested at different times, linear regression was used to calculate rates of change. This was possible for 11 (mainly developed) countries, representing a total of 129,882 children and adolescents in 151 age x sex x country slices. There has been a significant decline in performance in the 11 countries where data were available, and in most age x sex groups, with a s le-weighted mean decline of 0.43% of mean values per year. The decline was most marked in older age groups and the rate of decline was similar for boys and girls. There has been a very rapid secular decline in the 20mSRT performance of children and adolescents over the last 20 years, at least in developed countries. The rate of decline is not related to the change in the country's relative wealth, as quantified by per capita gross domestic product (GDP).
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2003
DOI: 10.1016/S1440-2440(03)80025-7
Abstract: Data on the performance fitness of 50,385 Australian students aged between 12 and 15 years were used to determine whether students differed in physical fitness according to school sector (independent vs government vs Catholic). Students were tested between 1995 and 2001 as part of the Australian Sports Commission's Talent Search program. The results of the 20 m shuttle run (20mSRT), vertical jump and 40 m sprint tests were selected as being representative of aerobic, explosive and anaerobic performance. All results were expressed as age- and gender-specific z-scores. MANOVA showed that independent school students outperformed students from the Catholic and government sectors on the selected tests for both boys and girls (p < 0.0001). In the 20mSRT, the difference amounted to 0.28-0.43 SDs. In the sprint and jump tests, independent school students were superior by 0.05-0.17 SDs. A proxy for socio-economic status (SES) explained about 90% of the differences between sectors, with high SES schools consistently outperforming low SES schools. Nonetheless, even when SES was factored in, sectoral differences remained significant. Insofar as fitness is related to school activities, these findings raise equity concerns in Australian school physical education.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 16-08-2018
DOI: 10.1038/IJO.2017.204
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 07-01-2020
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 24-03-2018
DOI: 10.1111/IJPO.12276
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 30-05-2017
DOI: 10.1111/IJPO.12162
Abstract: No studies have examined if mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) can be an alternative screening tool for obesity in an international s le of children differing widely in levels of human development. Our aim is to determine whether MUAC could be used to identify obesity in children from 12 countries in five major geographic regions of the world. This observational, multinational cross-sectional study included 7337 children aged 9-11 years. Anthropometric measurements were objectively assessed, and obesity was defined according to the World Health Organization reference data. In the total s le, MUAC was strongly correlated with adiposity indicators in both boys and girls (r > 0.86, p < 0.001). The accuracy level of MUAC for identifying obesity was high in both sexes and across study sites (overall area under the curve of 0.97, sensitivity of 95% and specificity of 90%). The MUAC cut-off value to identify obesity was ~25 cm for both boys and girls. In country-specific analyses, the cut-off value to identify obesity ranged from 23.2 cm (boys in South Africa) to 26.2 cm (girls in the UK). Results from this 12-country study suggest that MUAC is a simple and accurate measurement that may be used to identify obesity in children aged 9-11 years. MUAC may be a promising screening tool for obesity in resource-limited settings.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 23-04-2017
Abstract: Poor academic performance has been linked with particular lifestyle behaviors, such as unhealthy diet, short sleep duration, high screen time, and low physical activity. However, little is known about how lifestyle behavior patterns (or combinations of behaviors) contribute to children's academic performance. We aimed to compare academic performance across clusters of children with common lifestyle behavior patterns. We clustered participants (Australian children aged 9-11 years, n = 284) into four mutually exclusive groups of distinct lifestyle behavior patterns, using the following lifestyle behaviors as cluster inputs: light, moderate, and vigorous physical activity sedentary behavior and sleep, derived from 24-hour accelerometry self-reported screen time and diet. Differences in academic performance (measured by a nationally administered standardized test) were detected across the clusters, with scores being lowest in the Junk Food Screenies cluster (unhealthy diet/high screen time) and highest in the Sitters cluster (high nonscreen sedentary behavior/low physical activity). These findings suggest that reduction in screen time and an improved diet may contribute positively to academic performance. While children with high nonscreen sedentary time performed better academically in this study, they also accumulated low levels of physical activity. This warrants further investigation, given the known physical and mental benefits of physical activity.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 23-08-2012
DOI: 10.1111/J.1651-2227.2012.02804.X
Abstract: Both reduced moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and increased screen time have been implicated in the aetiology of childhood overweight/obesity. This study aimed to determine which behaviour had the stronger association with overweight/obesity. 2200 randomly selected 9- to 16-year-old Australians provided four 24-h use-of-time recalls. Participants were classified into weight status categories and as high or low physical active, and high or low screen time according to Australian guidelines (≥60 min MVPA ≤120 min recreational screen time daily). Multivariate logistic regression was used to calculate the odds ratios (OR) for overweight/obesity for each screen time and MVPA category. Increased likelihood of overweight or obese was often associated with high screen time (ORs, 2.13-2.55 for boys and 1.47-1.72 for girls), but only sometimes and less strongly associated with low MVPA (ORs, 0.49-2.55 for boys and 1.06-1.47 for girls). Analyses conducted for combined screen time and MVPA categories showed screen time to be a stronger indicator of weight status than physical activity, especially in boys. Overweight and obesity were more strongly associated with screen time than physical activity. Screen time may be an important target for interventions aimed at reducing childhood overweight and obesity.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.JSAMS.2022.09.166
Abstract: Physical activity is holistically linked to culture and wellbeing among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, the First Nation Peoples of Australia. Socioecological correlates of high physical activity among Indigenous children include living in a remote area and low screen time but little is known about early life determinants of physical activity. This paper examines sociodemographic, family, community, cultural, parent social and emotional wellbeing determinants of physical activity among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. Longitudinal cohort study. The Longitudinal Study of Indigenous Children, the largest First Nations child cohort study in the world, primarily collects data through parental report. Multiple logistic regression analyses examined Wave 1 (age 0-5 years) predictors of achieving ≥1 h/day of physical activity at Wave 9 (aged 8-13 years). Of the 1181 children, 596 (50.5 %) achieved ≥1 h of physical activity every day. Achieving ≥1 h/day of physical activity at Wave 9 was associated with the following Wave 1 determinants: high parent social and emotional wellbeing (resilience adjusted odds ratio 1.87 (95 % confidence interval: 1.32-2.65)), living in remote (odds ratio 3.66 (2.42-5.54)), regional (odds ratio 2.98 (2.13-4.18)) or low socioeconomic areas (odds ratio 1.85 (1.08-3.17)), main source of family income not wages/salaries (odds ratio 0.66 (0.46-0.97)), and if families played electronic games (odds ratio 0.72 (0.55-0.94)). To achieve high physical activity levels among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, high parental culture specific social and emotional wellbeing and low family screen time in early life may compensate for apparently low socio-economic circumstances, including living in remote areas.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 31-01-2019
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 30-04-2014
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 23-07-2018
DOI: 10.1111/CCH.12497
Abstract: The 3 "movement behaviours" of sleep, screen time, and physical activity are associated with a wide range of health outcomes in children. This study examined whether these behaviours cluster together within in iduals in Australian primary school children. Three datasets including 4,449 9- to 11-year-old children were interrogated-(a) Obesity Prevention and Lifestyle (OPAL), (b) the International Study of Children, Obesity, Lifestyle and Environment (ISCOLE), and (c) the National Children's Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey (NCNPAS). The surveys measured movement behaviours using different instruments (accelerometry, use of time recall, and questionnaires) and different operationalizations of compliance. Observed frequencies of compliance with various combinations of guidelines were compared with expected frequencies based on the assumption of independence, using chi-square tests. Compliance with the sleep guidelines was relatively high (72%, 75%, and 79% in the OPAL, ISCOLE, and NCNPAS datasets, respectively), and compliance with the screen (18%, 35%, and 22%) and physical activity (33%, 57%, and 87%) guidelines was generally lower. Against expectation, there was no evidence of clustering in any of the datasets (p > .99). Compliance with movement behaviour guidelines does not cluster within in iduals in 9- to 11-year-old Australian children. It may be unlikely that fostering compliance with one guideline will have a flow-on effect to the others. Temporal trade-offs (i.e., the need to choose one movement behaviour above another) in the 24-hr day may contribute to the lack of clustering.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 09-09-2014
DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2013.832354
Abstract: The aim of the study was to validate the self-report Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adolescents (MARCA) against accelerometry for the assessment of physical activity in New Zealand children. Participants (n = 716, 10-18 years) recalled 3-4 days of activity using the MARCA and underwent a partially overlapping 7-day accelerometry protocol during a national survey. Spearman correlation coefficients (ρ) assessed the association between accelerometer-derived counts per minute and MARCA-derived physical activity level and time in locomotion. Both data sources estimated time spent in light and moderate-vigorous physical activity. Association and agreement between methods for light physical activity and moderate-vigorous physical activity was assessed using correlations and Bland-Altman plots respectively, and paired t-tests conducted. Accelerometer-derived activity counts were moderately correlated with both MARCA-derived physical activity level and locomotion (ρ = 0.38, P < 0.0001). The correlation between methods was -0.14 for light physical activity and 0.28 for moderate-vigorous physical activity (P < 0.0001). The MARCA overestimated moderate-vigorous physical activity compared with accelerometry (120 min, P < 0.0001), which increased as moderate-vigorous physical activity time increased. Some sex and ethnicity (Māori [indigenous] versus non-Māori) differences were observed. Overall, the MARCA indicated moderate validity for assessment of physical activity level, locomotion and moderate-vigorous physical activity and poor validity for assessment of light physical activity. This was comparable to other self-report tools. The MARCA has utility for future large-scale research.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 1995
DOI: 10.1007/BF00964131
Abstract: Non-gestational choriocarcinoma is a rare and aggressive germ cell tumor. Here we present the case of a post-menopausal 49-year-old woman who presented with metastatic disease and initially achieved a complete radiographic and biomarker response with seven cycles of EMA-CO chemotherapy. Upon recurrence, she received two separate courses of chemotherapy, initially with paclitaxel/cisplatin/etoposide and later FOLFOX. Tumor analysis revealed 22% PD-L1 positivity (tumor proportion score) and she was treated with pembrolizumab. However, βhCG levels rose abruptly and uncharacteristically through all three cycles of anti-PD1 therapy. The patient developed dyspnea on exertion, cough, and right flank pain. CT imaging demonstrated marked progression of liver metastases and innumerable new pulmonary metastases and the patient died 10 weeks after starting pembrolizumab. Here we describe the clinical presentation and management of this patient, along with analysis of molecular aberrations which could potentially explain hyperprogression in response to pembrolizumab.
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Date: 16-09-2011
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 10-2011
DOI: 10.5665/SLEEP.1266
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 14-07-2015
DOI: 10.1002/JOR.22969
Abstract: Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in people with knee osteoarthritis increases knee-specific and general physical function, but it has not been established if there is a relationship between changes in these elements of functional ability. This study investigated changes and relationships between knee biomechanics during walking, physical activity, and use of time after TKA. Fifteen people awaiting TKA underwent 3D gait analysis before and six months after surgery. Physical activity and use of time were determined in free-living conditions from a high resolution 24-h activity recall. After surgery, participants displayed significant improvements in sagittal plane knee biomechanics and improved their physical activity profiles, standing for 105 more minutes (p=0.001) and performing 64 min more inside chores on average per day (p=0.008). Changes in sagittal plane knee range of motion (ROM) and peak knee flexion positively correlated with changes in total daily energy expenditure, time spent undertaking moderate to vigorous physical activity, inside chores and passive transport (r=0.52-0.66, p=0.005-0.047). Restoration of knee function occurs in parallel and is associated with improvements in physical activity and use of time after TKA. Increased functional knee ROM is required to support improvements in total and context specific physical activity.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.SOCSCIMED.2014.08.024
Abstract: Family interactions about weight and health take place against the backdrop of the wider social discourse relating to the obesity epidemic. Parents (and children) negotiate complex and often contradictory messages in constructing a set of beliefs and practices around obesity and weight management. Despite this, very little research attention has been given to the nature of family-unit discourse on the subject of body weight and it's potential influence on the weight-related behaviours of family members. This includes the broad influence that dominant socio-cultural discourses have on family conceptualisations of weight and health. Using in-depth qualitative interviews with 150 family 'groups' comprised of at least one parent and one child in Victoria and South Australia, we explored how parents and children conceptualise and discuss issues of weight- and health-related lifestyle behaviours. Data were analysed using Attride-Stirling's (2001) thematic network approach. Three thematic clusters emerged from the analysis. First, both parents and children perceived that weight was the primary indicator of health. However, parents focused on the negative physical implications of overweight while children focused on the negative social implications. Second, weight and lifestyle choices were highly moralised. Parents saw it as their responsibility to communicate to children the 'dangers' of fatness. Children reported that parents typically used negatively-framed messages and scare tactics rather than positively-framed messages to encourage healthy behaviours. Third was the perception among parents and children that if you were thin, then eating habits and exercise were less important, and that activity could provide an antidote to food choices. Results suggest that both parents and children are internalising messages relating to obesity and weight management that focus on personal responsibility and blame attribution. These views reflect the broader societal discourse, and their consolidation at the family level is likely to increase their potency and make them resistant to change.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 09-06-2013
Abstract: This article aims to (1) identify instruments available to measure activity and participation in children with disabilities (2) describe the reliability and validity of these instruments and (3) consider whether the available instruments capture the extent of involvement, as well as the difficulty and satisfaction/enjoyment associated with performance in all life areas. A literature review was completed by undertaking an electronic search to identify instruments that measure activity and participation in children with disabilities. A further electronic search was conducted to obtain an adequate description of the instruments, including psychometric properties. The search identified 20 instruments purporting to measure activity and participation, however, no single instrument measured extent of involvement, difficulty and satisfaction/enjoyment in all life areas. There were instances in which each of these aspects was captured, but not within the one instrument. Instruments assessed combinations of frequency, difficulty, assistance, environment and satisfaction across varying contexts, for ex le, school, domestic life, recreational tasks, leisure tasks or all life areas. Although a large number of instruments exist to measure varying aspects of activity and participation, there is currently no single instrument available to measure the extent of involvement, difficulty and satisfaction/enjoyment in all life areas. This finding indicates that there is the opportunity to develop a single instrument to measure activity and participation across all life areas.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.JADOHEALTH.2012.06.015
Abstract: Recent research suggests that patterns or clusters of time use may affect health in ways that cannot be explained by the effect of in idual behaviors alone. The aim of this research was to systematically review the literature examining adolescent time use clusters and associated correlates. Systematic searches of six online databases for relevant observational studies were conducted. At least two authors reviewed abstract and full text selection meeting eligibility criteria. Included studies were quality scored, had data extracted, and cluster types and cluster associations interpreted. Nineteen studies were identified for inclusion, and 18 of them investigated cluster-correlate associations. Twenty-nine cluster types were identified, characterized by both in idual (e.g., church) and co-occurring behaviors (e.g., physical activity and screen [technoactive]). Nineteen correlate categories were identified (e.g., socioeconomic and weight status). Consistent patterns of cluster-correlate association were found. For ex le, the technoactive cluster type is more likely to be male and to have low school orientation. Despite the between-study differences, consistent cluster and cluster-correlate patterns were still evident. Cluster analysis of adolescent time use behaviors appears to be an emerging and useful classification technique, one which may have implications for targeted health-related interventions.
Publisher: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
Date: 08-2020
Abstract: To examine how overweight and obesity at specific ages and overall BMI growth patterns throughout childhood predict cardiometabolic phenotypes at 11 to 12 years. In a population-based s le of 5107 infants, BMI was measured every 2 years between ages 2 to 3 and 10 to 11 years. We identified 5 BMI trajectories using growth curve models. At ages 11 to 12 years, 1811 children completed assessments for metabolic syndrome risk scores, carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity, and carotid intima-media thickness. Multivariable regression models were used to estimate associations, adjusted for potential confounders (eg, age, sex, smoking exposure, and small for gestational age). Overweight and obesity from early childhood onward were strongly associated with higher cardiometabolic risk at 11 to 12 years of age. At age 6 to 7 years, compared with those with a healthy weight, children with overweight had higher metabolic syndrome risk scores by 0.23 SD units (95% confidence interval 0.05 to 0.41) and with obesity by 0.76 SD units (0.51–1.01), with associations almost doubling by age 10 to 11 years. Obese (but not overweight) children had higher outcome pulse wave velocity (0.64–0.73 SD units) from ages 6 to 7 years and slightly higher outcome carotid intima-media thickness (0.20–0.30 SD units) at all ages. Cumulative exposure to high BMI from 2 to 3 years of age carried the greatest cardiometabolic risk, with a gradient of risk across trajectories. High early-childhood BMI is already silently associated with the development of cardiometabolic risk by 11 to 12 years, highlighting the urgent need for effective action to reduce overweight and obesity in early childhood.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-02-2016
DOI: 10.1111/APA.13323
Abstract: The aim was to evaluate the impact of a brief activity bout outside the classroom on boys' attention and on-task behaviour in the classroom setting. Fifty-eight boys (mean age 11.2 ± 0.6 years) were recruited from a boys' elementary school in Adelaide, South Australia. Two year 5 and, similarly, two year 6 classes were assigned using a crossover design to either four weeks of a 10 minute Active Lesson Break followed by four weeks of a 10 minute Passive Lesson Break (reading) or visa versa. Attention was quantified using a computerised psychomotor vigilance task, and on-task behaviour by direct observation. Neither the Active Lesson nor the Passive Lesson condition significantly affected sustained attention or on-task behaviour, and there were no significant differences between conditions. There was no impact on participants' sustained attention or on-task behaviour after a short activity break between lessons. Brief activity breaks outside the classroom do not compromise participants' on-task behaviour or attention levels upon returning to the classroom, although improvement in these variables is not seen either. However, the results suggest that active breaks are effective for accruing moderate-to-vigorous physical activity without compromising classroom behaviours.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2015
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 20-09-2016
DOI: 10.1136/BJSPORTS-2016-096224
Abstract: To describe and compare 20 m shuttle run test (20mSRT) performance among children and youth across 50 countries to explore broad socioeconomic indicators that correlate with 20mSRT performance in children and youth across countries and to evaluate the utility of the 20mSRT as an international population health indicator for children and youth. A systematic review was undertaken to identify papers that explicitly reported descriptive 20mSRT (with 1-min stages) data on apparently healthy 9–17 year-olds. Descriptive data were standardised to running speed (km/h) at the last completed stage. Country-specific 20mSRT performance indices were calculated as population-weighted mean z-scores relative to all children of the same age and sex from all countries. Countries were categorised into developed and developing groups based on the Human Development Index, and a correlational analysis was performed to describe the association between country-specific performance indices and broad socioeconomic indicators using Spearman's rank correlation coefficient. Performance indices were calculated for 50 countries using collated data on 1 142 026 children and youth aged 9–17 years. The best performing countries were from Africa and Central-Northern Europe. Countries from South America were consistently among the worst performing countries. Country-specific income inequality (Gini index) was a strong negative correlate of the performance index across all 50 countries. The pattern of variability in the performance index broadly supports the theory of a physical activity transition and income inequality as the strongest structural determinant of health in children and youth. This simple and cost-effective assessment would be a powerful tool for international population health surveillance.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2015
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 06-2008
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 04-05-2018
DOI: 10.1002/OSP4.271
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2015
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2015
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 22-10-2019
DOI: 10.1186/S12889-019-7710-4
Abstract: Childhood obesity is a serious public health concern worldwide . Community-based obesity prevention interventions offer promise due to their focus on the broader social, cultural and environmental contexts rather than in idual behaviour change and their potential for sustainability and scalability. This paper aims to determine the effectiveness of a South Australian community-based, multi-setting, multi-strategy intervention, OPAL (Obesity Prevention and Lifestyle), in increasing healthy weight prevalence in 9 to 11-year-olds. A quasi-experimental repeated cross-sectional design was employed. This paper reports on the anthropometric, health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and behaviour outcomes of primary school children (9–11 years) after 2–3 years of intervention delivery. Consenting children from primary schools (20 intervention communities, INT 20 matched comparison communities, COMP) completed self-report questionnaires on diet, activity and screen time behaviours. HRQoL was measured using the Child Health Utility 9D. Body Mass Index (BMI) z-score and weight status were determined from children’s measured height and weight. A multilevel mixed-effects model, accounting for clustering in schools, was implemented to determine intervention effect. Sequential Bonferroni adjustment was used to allow for multiple comparisons of the secondary outcomes. At baseline and final, respectively, 2611 and 1873 children completed questionnaires and 2353 and 1760 had anthropometric measures taken. The prevalence of children with healthy weight did not significantly change over time in INT (OR 1.11, 95%CI 0.92–1.35, p = 0.27) or COMP (OR 0.85, 95%CI 0.68–1.06, p = 0.14). Although changes in the likelihood of obesity, BMI z-score and HRQoL favoured the INT group, the differences were not significant after Bonferroni adjustment. There were also no significant differences between groups at final for behavioural outcomes. OPAL did not have a significant impact on the proportion of 9 to 11-year-olds in the healthy weight range, nor children’s BMI z-score, HRQoL and behaviours. Long-term, flexible community-based program evaluation approaches are required . ACTRN12616000477426 (12th April 2016, retrospectively registered).
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 02-2016
Abstract: Australia has joined a growing number of nations that have evaluated the physical activity and sedentary behavior status of their children. Australia received a “D minus” in the first Active Healthy Kids Australia Physical Activity Report Card. An expert subgroup of the Australian Report Card Research Working Group iteratively reviewed available evidence to answer 3 questions: (a) What are the main sedentary behaviors of children? (b) What are the potential mechanisms for sedentary behavior to impact child health and development? and (c) What are the effects of different types of sedentary behaviors on child health and development? Neither sedentary time nor screen time is a homogeneous activity likely to result in homogenous effects. There are several mechanisms by which various sedentary behaviors may positively or negatively affect cardiometabolic, neuromusculoskeletal, and psychosocial health, though the strength of evidence varies. National surveillance systems and mechanistic, longitudinal, and experimental studies are needed for Australia and other nations to improve their grade. Despite limitations, available evidence is sufficiently convincing that the total exposure and pattern of exposure to sedentary behaviors are critical to the healthy growth, development, and wellbeing of children. Nations therefore need strategies to address these common behaviors.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.JSAMS.2010.08.006
Abstract: Measurement in behavioural epidemiology depends on high resolution and precise and accurate measures of the behaviour of interest. Few questionnaires in the adult population are able to simultaneously collect the multidimensional information that is emerging as being important in the relationship between behaviour and health. This project had two objectives: (1) to develop an adult version of the computer-delivered Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adolescents (MARCA), a 24-h activity recall instrument that can measure use-of-time and estimate energy expenditure and (2) to determine the test-retest reliability and convergent validity of the developed adult MARCA. Thirty-eight healthy subjects (mean±SD, 31.7±12.1 yr) completed two recalls of the adult MARCA within 24-h and accelerometer counts were measured on 30 of the subjects. Bland-Altman analysis and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were used to quantify the test-retest reliability of the adult MARCA. Spearman rank correlation coefficients (rho) were used to quantify convergent validity of the adult MARCA compared to accelerometer counts. The test-retest reliability coefficients of the adult MARCA were high with intra-class coefficients ranging from 0.99 to 1.00. Moderate to strong validity was observed for physical activity level (PAL) (MET.min score of accelerometer wear time) and accelerometer counts per minute (rho=0.72). The adult MARCA is a valid and reliable self-report measure of use-of-time and energy expenditure, capable of a wide variety of flexible use-of-time analyses related to a wide range of behaviours.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 11-12-2011
Abstract: There is conflicting evidence regarding the relationship between socio-economic position (SEP) and physical activity in adolescents. The aim of this study was to investigate associations between SEP and characteristics of physical activity in Australian adolescents using a high-resolution use-of-time tool. Use-of-time and pedometer data were collected on a random s le of 2071 9-16-year-old Australian children. Use-of-time was recorded using a computerised 24-h use-of-time recall, the Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adults. Reported household income was used as a marker of SEP. There were no differences in self-reported minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) across the income bands and only very small differences in the number of daily steps. However, the mix of MVPA components varied across income bands, with adolescents from low-SEP families experiencing less sport but more active transport. Because the mean rate of energy expenditure was greater in sport than in other forms of MVPA (play, active transport or chores), there were significant differences in MVPA-related and total daily energy expenditure across income bands, with the lower bands having significantly lower values. Differences in total daily energy expenditure were almost entirely explained by differences in energy expenditure associated with sport. Physical activity patterns vary across SEP bands in Australian adolescents, with sport being the major locus of differences. Instruments which do not account for the energy costs of various activities may fail to detect important relationships.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 13-10-2010
DOI: 10.1038/IJO.2009.211
Abstract: Popular media, health experts and researchers talk about a paediatric 'obesity epidemic' with exponentially increasing rates of obesity and overweight. However, some recent reports suggest that prevalence may have plateaued. This study examined trends in the prevalence of Australian childhood overweight and obesity since 1985. Specifically, it aimed to determine whether there have been (a) overall increases in average body mass index (BMI), (b) differential patterns of change within age groups and (c) increases in BMI within each weight-status category. Forty-one Australian studies of childhood weight status conducted between 1985 and 2008 were reviewed. The studies included data on 264 905 Australians aged 2-18 years, with raw data being available on 70 758 children (27%). Children were classified as overweight or obese based on BMI using the criteria of Cole et al. (BMJ, 2000). The prevalence estimates were adjusted for age and sex, and plotted against measurement year using Lowess plots and two-linear-segment models. Where raw data were available, BMI z-scores (UK 1990 standard) were plotted against measurement year for all children and children in various age groups. Lowess plots and two-linear-segment models were used to assess secular trends in BMI z-scores pre- and post-1996 within age, gender and weight-status categories. There has been a plateau, or only slight increase, in the percentage of boys and girls classified as overweight or obese, with almost no change over the last 10 years. In boys and girls, prevalence rates have settled around 21-25% for overweight and obesity together, and 5-6% for obesity alone. Similar trends were found for BMI z-scores. These patterns were fairly consistent across the age span. Within each weight-status category, average BMI has not increased. Although levels of Australian paediatric overweight remain high, the prevalence of overweight and obesity seems to have flattened and has not followed the anticipated exponential trajectory.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 19-10-2023
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.RMED.2011.10.014
Abstract: What is the best available research evidence (volume, quality, consistency, generalisability) for the active cycle of breathing technique (ACBT)? Systematic review with meta-analysis. Participants with respiratory conditions characterised by chronic sputum production. The active cycle of breathing or forced expiratory technique. COMPARATOR: All comparators including control conditions. All outcomes providing continuous data. Twenty-four studies were included. Ten comparators were identified with the most common being conventional chest physiotherapy, positive expiratory pressure and a control. The outcomes most frequently assessed were sputum wet weight (n = 17), forced vital capacity (n = 12) and forced expiratory volume in 1 s (n = 12). Meta-analysis was completed on the primary outcome of sputum wet weight. The standardised mean difference (SMD, random effects) showed an increase in sputum wet weight during and up to 1 h post ACBT compared to conventional physiotherapy (SMD 0.32, 95%CI 0.05-0.59), external oscillatory devices (0.75, 0.48-1.02), and control (0.24, 0.02-0.46). The overall body of evidence was classified as good (good volume, quality and consistency, excellent generalisability). High level, variable risk of bias research evidence favours ACBT over most alternatives for short-term improvements in secretion clearance.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 06-2022
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 06-2016
Abstract: To improve the scope of the Youth Compendium of Energy Expenditures , a range of everyday activities of varying intensity should be measured. This study measures the energy cost of children undertaking common household chores, rollerblading and riding a foot-propelled scooter. Participants were 9- to 14-year-old children. A metabolic cart was used to measure oxygen cost (VO 2 ) of a variety of household chores. A Cosmed K4b2 portable oxygen analyzer was used to measure VO 2 during rollerblading and riding a scooter at self-selected speeds. Energy costs for each participant were calculated as child METs. Mean child MET costs for the household chores ranged from 1.3 to 3.6 METs. Rollerblading and riding a scooter yielded mean child MET costs of 6.5 and 6.3 METs respectively. Household chores were found to be of light to moderate intensity, while rollerblading and riding a scooter were vigorous activities.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 2022
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2020-047888
Abstract: Approximately 40% of late-life dementia may be prevented by addressing modifiable risk factors, including physical activity and diet. Yet, it is currently unknown how multiple lifestyle factors interact to influence cognition. The ACTIVate Study aims to (1) explore associations between 24-hour time-use and diet compositions with changes in cognition and brain function and (2) identify duration of time-use behaviours and the dietary compositions to optimise cognition and brain function. This 3-year prospective longitudinal cohort study will recruit 448 adults aged 60–70 years across Adelaide and Newcastle, Australia. Time-use data will be collected through wrist-worn activity monitors and the Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adults. Dietary intake will be assessed using the Australian Eating Survey food frequency questionnaire. The primary outcome will be cognitive function, assessed using the Addenbrooke’s Cognitive Examination-III. Secondary outcomes include structural and functional brain measures using MRI, cerebral arterial pulse measured with diffuse optical tomography, neuroplasticity using simultaneous transcranial magnetic stimulation and electroencephalography, and electrophysiological markers of cognitive control using event-related potential and time frequency analyses. Compositional data analysis, testing for interactions between time point and compositions, will assess longitudinal associations between dependent (cognition, brain function) and independent (time-use and diet compositions) variables. The ACTIVate Study will be the first to examine associations between time-use and diet compositions, cognition and brain function. Our findings will inform new avenues for multidomain interventions that may more effectively account for the co-dependence between activity and diet behaviours for dementia prevention. Ethics approval has been obtained from the University of South Australia’s Human Research Ethics committee (202639). Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed manuscripts, conference presentations, targeted media releases and community engagement events. Australia New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12619001659190).
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 23-06-2023
DOI: 10.1038/S41746-023-00856-1
Abstract: Chatbots (also known as conversational agents and virtual assistants) offer the potential to deliver healthcare in an efficient, appealing and personalised manner. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the efficacy of chatbot interventions designed to improve physical activity, diet and sleep. Electronic databases were searched for randomised and non-randomised controlled trials, and pre-post trials that evaluated chatbot interventions targeting physical activity, diet and/or sleep, published before 1 September 2022. Outcomes were total physical activity, steps, moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), fruit and vegetable consumption, sleep quality and sleep duration. Standardised mean differences (SMD) were calculated to compare intervention effects. Subgroup analyses were conducted to assess chatbot type, intervention type, duration, output and use of artificial intelligence. Risk of bias was assessed using the Effective Public Health Practice Project Quality Assessment tool. Nineteen trials were included. S le sizes ranged between 25–958, and mean participant age ranged between 9–71 years. Most interventions ( n = 15, 79%) targeted physical activity, and most trials had a low-quality rating ( n = 14, 74%). Meta-analysis results showed significant effects (all p 0.05) of chatbots for increasing total physical activity (SMD = 0.28 [95% CI = 0.16, 0.40]), daily steps (SMD = 0.28 [95% CI = 0.17, 0.39]), MVPA (SMD = 0.53 [95% CI = 0.24, 0.83]), fruit and vegetable consumption (SMD = 0.59 [95% CI = 0.25, 0.93]), sleep duration (SMD = 0.44 [95% CI = 0.32, 0.55]) and sleep quality (SMD = 0.50 [95% CI = 0.09, 0.90]). Subgroup analyses showed that text-based, and artificial intelligence chatbots were more efficacious than speech/voice chatbots for fruit and vegetable consumption, and multicomponent interventions were more efficacious than chatbot-only interventions for sleep duration and sleep quality (all p 0.05). Findings from this systematic review and meta-analysis indicate that chatbot interventions are efficacious for increasing physical activity, fruit and vegetable consumption, sleep duration and sleep quality. Chatbot interventions were efficacious across a range of populations and age groups, with both short- and longer-term interventions, and chatbot only and multicomponent interventions being efficacious.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 06-06-2020
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 07-09-2022
DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0272343
Abstract: Reallocations of time between daily activities such as sleep, sedentary behavior and physical activity are differentially associated with markers of physical, mental and social health. An in idual’s most desirable allocation of time may differ depending on which outcomes they value most, with these outcomes potentially competing with each other for reallocations. We aimed to develop an interactive app that translates how self-selected time reallocations are associated with multiple health measures. We used data from the Australian Child Health CheckPoint study ( n = 1685, 48% female, 11–12 y), with time spent in daily activities derived from a validated 24-h recall instrument, %body fat from bioelectric impedance, psychosocial health from the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory and academic performance (writing) from national standardized tests. We created a user-interface to the compositional isotemporal substitution model with interactive sliders that can be manipulated to self-select time reallocations between activities. The time-use composition was significantly associated with body fat percentage (F = 2.66, P .001), psychosocial health (F = 4.02, P .001), and academic performance (F = 2.76, P .001). Dragging the sliders on the app shows how self-selected time reallocations are associated with the health measures. For ex le, reallocating 60 minutes from screen time to physical activity was associated with -0.8 [95% CI -1.0 to -0.5] %body fat, +1.9 [1.4 to 2.5] psychosocial score and +4.5 [1.8 to 7.2] academic performance. Our app allows the health associations of time reallocations to be compared against each other. Interactive interfaces provide flexibility in selecting which time reallocations to investigate, and may transform how research findings are disseminated.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 03-2018
Publisher: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
Date: 07-2017
Abstract: To describe 24-hour time-use patterns and their association with health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in early adolescence. The Child Health CheckPoint was a cross-sectional study nested between Waves 6 and 7 of the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children. The participants were 1455 11- to 12-year-olds (39% of Wave 6 51% boys). The exposure was 24-hour time use measured across 259 activities using the Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adolescents. “Average” days were generated from 1 school and 1 nonschool day. Time-use clusters were derived from cluster analysis with compositional inputs. The outcomes were self-reported HRQoL (Physical and Psychosocial Health [PedsQL] summary scores Child Health Utility 9D [CHU9D] health utility). Four time-use clusters emerged: “studious actives” (22% highest school-related time, low screen time), “techno-actives” (33% highest physical activity, lowest school-related time), “stay home screenies” (23% highest screen time, lowest passive transport), and “potterers” (21% low physical activity). Linear regression models, adjusted for a priori confounders, showed that compared with the healthiest “studious actives” (mean [SD]: CHU9D 0.84 [0.14], PedsQL physical 86.8 [10.8], PedsQL psychosocial 79.9 [12.6]), HRQoL in “potterers” was 0.2 to 0.5 SDs lower (mean differences [95% confidence interval]: CHU9D −0.03 [−0.05 to −0.00], PedsQL physical −5.5 [−7.4 to −3.5], PedsQL psychosocial −5.8 [−8.0 to −3.5]). Discrete time-use patterns exist in Australian young adolescents. The cluster characterized by low physical activity and moderate screen time was associated with the lowest HRQoL. Whether this pattern translates into precursors of noncommunicable diseases remains to be determined.
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 02-2017
Abstract: Brief classroom-based episodes of physical activity (active lesson breaks, ALBs) have improved schoolchildren’s classroom behaviors in some studies, and may also increase the likelihood of children meeting the recommended daily minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA). However, there is emerging evidence that increases in physical activity at particular times of the day may lead to compensatory declines at other times. This study explored evidence for compensatory declines in response to a 10 min ALB during the school day. Thirty-eight 12-year-old boys from a single elementary school completed intervention and control conditions in a cross-over design, with each phase lasting one week. The intervention consisted of a single 10-min active lesson break delivered on each of three days in the intervention week. Twenty-four hour accelerometry was used to quantify moderate and vigorous physical activity. ALBs increased in-school MVPA by 5.8 min ( p .0001), but overall daily MVPA was similar between intervention and control conditions (77.2 vs 77.4 min/d, p .05), However, vigorous physical activity increased significantly over the whole day (11.2 vs 8.9 min, p = .0006). A brief episode of classroom-based play led to a modest increase in vigorous physical activity in elementary school students, but did not increase MVPA across the day.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.SLEEP.2015.02.534
Abstract: The present study investigated the effectiveness of a school-based sleep education programme in improving key sleep behaviours, sleep knowledge, and sleep hygiene. A cross-sectional cluster-randomised controlled trial with two groups (Intervention and Control) and three assessment time points [baseline, immediately post intervention (6 weeks post baseline) and follow-up (18 weeks post baseline)] was employed. A total of 296 students (mean age = 12.2 ± 0.6 years 59% female) from 12 schools in Adelaide, South Australia, were recruited, with 149 participants in the Intervention group and 147 in the Control group. The intervention consisted of four classroom lessons delivered at weekly intervals, followed by a group project on sleep topics, which students presented at a parental information evening. Sleep patterns were assessed objectively (actigraphy, n = 175) and subjectively (time-use recall, n = 251) at three time points. Sleep knowledge and sleep hygiene (n = 296) were also measured. Generalised estimating equations were used to compare changes in the Intervention and Control groups. The programme increased time in bed by 10 min (p = 0.03) for the Intervention group relative to the Control group, due to a 10-min delay in wake time (p = 0.00). These changes were not sustained at follow-up. There was no impact on sleep knowledge or sleep hygiene. Investment in the sleep health of youth through sleep education is important but changes to sleep patterns are difficult to achieve. More intensive programmes, programmes with a different focus or programmes targeting different age groups may be more effective.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 28-03-2012
DOI: 10.1002/AJPA.22051
Abstract: Measurements of whole body surface area (WBSA) have important applications in numerous fields including biological anthropology, clinical medicine, biomechanics, and sports science. Currently, WBSA is most often estimated using predictive equations due to the complex and time consuming methods required for direct measurement. The main aim of this study was to identify whether there were significant and meaningful differences between WBSA measurements taken using a whole body three-dimensional (3D) scanner (criterion measure) and the estimates derived from each WBSA equation identified from a systematic review. The study also aimed to determine whether differences varied according to body mass index (BMI), sex, or athletic status. Fifteen WBSA equations were compared with direct measurements taken on 1,714 young adult subjects, aged 18-30 years, using the Vitus Smart 3D whole body scanner, including 1,452 subjects (753 males, 699 females) from the general Australian population and 262 rowers (148 males, 114 females). Mixed-design analysis of variances determined significant differences and accuracy was quantified using Bland-Altman analysis and effect sizes. Thirteen of the 15 equations overestimated WBSA. With a few exceptions, equations were accurate with a low-systematic error (bias ≤2%) and low-random error (standard deviation of the differences 1.5-3.0%). However, BMI did have a substantial impact with the accuracy of some WBSA equations varying between the four BMI categories. The Shuter and Aslani: Eur J Appl Physiol 82 (2000) 250-254 equation was identified as the most accurate equation and should be used for Western populations 18-30 years of age. Care must be taken when deciding which equation to use when estimating WBSA.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2001
DOI: 10.1080/026404101750158295
Abstract: The aim of this study was to assess the effects of the age and sex of the competitor on orienteering speed during competitive events. The results of the fastest three male and fastest three female competitors in each 5-year age band (21-79 years), from four national orienteering events, were analysed. The data for age and orienteering speed were log-transformed and regression analyses were conducted to determine the relationships between age and sex and orienteering speed. For comparison, data for the fastest Great Britain finisher in the 10,000-m track and 10-km cross-country events for age groups 40-69 years at the World Masters Ch ionships were also analysed. The results showed that, before the age of 40 years, there was no substantial slowing in orienteering speed for males (0.5-4.2% per decade) but a moderate decline (4.7-10.0% per decade) for females. After the age of 45 years, the orienteering speed of males and females slowed by 13+/-2% and 16+/-4% per decade (mean +/- s), respectively, until around the age of 69, after which the deterioration was accentuated. The orienteering speed of the females was 81+/-4, 74+/-6 and 69+/-7% that of the males at ages 21, 45 and 65 years, respectively. The magnitudes of the age-related slowing of orienteering speed and of the difference in orienteering speed between males and females aged 45 years and over were greater than those reported for the other endurance running events. This may reflect the physical demands of running in orienteering terrain, tactical and cognitive aspects of the sport, or sociocultural aspects of the participating population.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.JSAMS.2015.08.001
Abstract: This study sought to better understand the interrelationships between physical activity and sedentary behaviour and the relationship to risk of cardiovascular disease (CVDR) in adults aged 30-75 years. Cross-sectional. Data from two-year waves (2003-2004 and 2005-2006) of the National Health and Nutritional Examination survey were analysed in 2014. Accelerometer-derived time and proportion of time spent sedentary and on moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) were calculated to generate four activity profiles based on cut-points to define low and high levels for the respective behaviours. Using health outcome data, CVDR was calculated for each person. Weighted multiple linear regression models were used to evaluate the predicted effects of sedentary and physical activity behaviours on the CVDR score, adjusting for participants' sex, age group, race, annual household income, and accelerometer wear time. The lowest CVDR was observed among Busy Exercisers (high MVPA and low sedentary 8.5%), whereas Couch Potatoes (low MVPA and high sedentary) had the highest (18.6%). Compared with the reference group (Busy Exercisers), the activity profile associated with the highest CVDR was Couch Potatoes (adjusted mean difference 3.6, SE 0.38, p<0.0001). A smoothed three-dimensional response surface "risk landscape" was developed to better visualise the conjoint associations of MVPA and sedentary behaviour on CVDR for each activity profile. The association between MVPA was greater than that of sedentary behaviour however, for people with low MVPA, shifts in sedentary behaviour may have the greatest impact on CVDR. Activity profiles that consider the interrelationships between physical activity and sedentary behaviour differ in terms of CVDR. Future interventions may need to be tailored to specific profiles and be dynamic enough to reflect change in the profile over time.
Publisher: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
Date: 31-07-2021
DOI: 10.1101/2021.07.28.21261299
Abstract: Approximately 40% of late-life dementia may be prevented by addressing modifiable risk factors, including physical activity and diet. Yet, it is currently unknown how multiple lifestyle factors interact to influence cognition. The ACTIVate Study aims to 1) Explore associations between 24-hour time-use and diet compositions with changes in cognition and brain function and 2) Identify durations of time-use behaviours and the dietary compositions to optimise cognition and brain function. This three-year prospective longitudinal cohort study will recruit 448 adults aged 60-70 years across Adelaide and Newcastle, Australia. Time-use data will be collected through wrist-worn activity monitors and the Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adults (MARCA). Dietary intake will be assessed using the Australian Eating Survey food frequency questionnaire. The primary outcome will be cognitive function, assessed using the Addenbrooke’s Cognitive Examination-III (ACE-III). Secondary outcomes include structural and functional brain measures using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), cerebral arterial pulse measured with Diffuse Optical Tomography (Pulse-DOT), neuroplasticity using simultaneous Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Electroencephalography (EEG), and electrophysiological markers of cognitive control using event-related potential (ERP) and time-frequency analyses. Compositional data analysis, testing for interactions between time-point and compositions, will assess longitudinal associations between dependent (cognition, brain function) and independent (time-use and diet compositions) variables. The ACTIVate Study will be the first to examine associations between time-use and diet compositions, cognition and brain function. Our findings will inform new avenues for multidomain interventions that may more effectively account for the co-dependence between activity and diet behaviours for dementia prevention. Ethics approval has been obtained from University of South Australia’s Human Research Ethics committee (202639). Findings will be disseminated through peer reviewed manuscripts, conference presentations, targeted media releases and community engagement events. Australia New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12619001659190). The ACTIVate Study will collect comprehensive measures of lifestyle behaviours and dementia risk over time in 448 older adults aged 60-70 years. Using newly developed Compositional Data Analysis (CoDA) techniques we will examine the associations between time-use and diet compositions, cognition and brain function. Data will inform the development of a digital tool to help older adults obtain personalised information about how to reduce their risk of cognitive decline based on changes to time use and diet. Recruitment will be focussed on older adults to maximise the potential of making an impact on dementia prevention in the next 10 years. Findings may not be generalisable to younger adults.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 30-11-2016
DOI: 10.3390/NU8120770
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.SLEH.2017.07.006
Abstract: Sleep is important for the physical, social and mental well-being of both children and adults. Over the years, there has been a general presumption that sleep will inevitably decline with the increase in technology and a busy 24-hour modern lifestyle. This narrative review discusses the empirical evidence for secular trends in sleep duration and the implications of these trends.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 25-11-2021
Abstract: To investigate relationships between takeaway food and sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption with cardiometabolic phenotypes during childhood and mid-adulthood. Design: Cross-sectional Child Health CheckPoint within the national population-representative Longitudinal Study of Australian Children. Participants: 1838 children (mean age 11.5 years 49.1% female) and 1846 adults (mean age 43.7 years 87.6% female). Exposures: Self-reported takeaway food and SSB consumption (‘frequent’: ≥ weekly). Outcomes: Functional (pulse wave velocity (PWV), blood pressure (BP)) and structural (carotid intima-media thickness, retinal microvascular calibre) preclinical cardiovascular phenotypes lipids (total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), triglycerides). Analysis: Linear regression (exposure: takeaway or SSB consumption, in idually or together) adjusted for age, sex and socio-economic position and mediation analysis for body mass index (BMI). Associations were small among children (standardized mean difference (SMD) ≤0.15). In adults, associations were stronger with functional, but not structural, cardiovascular phenotypes and lipids, particularly for frequent takeaway food consumption (e.g. PWV (0.20 m/s 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.03 to 0.37) systolic (3.3 mmHg 95% CI 1.3 to 5.3) and diastolic BP (1.4 mmHg 95% CI 0.2 to 2.6) LDL (0.10 mmol/L 95% CI 0.02 to 0.18) HDL (−0.14 mmol/L 95% CI −0.19 to −0.10) and triglycerides (0.30 mmol/L 95% CI 0.12 to 0.48)]. BMI mediated associations between takeaway food consumption and PWV, BP, HDL and TG (proportion of mediation 34% to 75%), while mediation effects were smaller for SSB consumption. Frequent takeaway food consumption in adults was associated with adverse blood lipids and vascular function (mainly via BMI). Lack of strong associations in children highlights opportunities for prevention.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 08-2008
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 19-01-2021
DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0245501
Abstract: Daily time spent on one activity cannot change without compensatory changes in others, which themselves may impact on health outcomes. Optimal daily activity combinations may differ across outcomes. We estimated optimal daily activity durations for the highest fitness and lowest adiposity. Cross-sectional Child Health CheckPoint data (1182 11-12-year-olds 51% boys) from the population-based Longitudinal Study of Australian Children were used. Daily activity composition (sleep, sedentary time, light physical activity [LPA], moderate-to-vigorous physical activity [MVPA]) was from 8-day, 24-hour accelerometry. We created composite outcomes for fitness (VO 2max standing long jump) and adiposity (waist-to-height ratio body mass index fat-to-fat-free log-ratio). Adjusted compositional models regressed activity log-ratios against each outcome. Best activity compositions ( optimal time-use zones ) were plotted in quaternary tetrahedrons the overall optimal time-use composition was the center of the overlapping area. Time-use composition was associated with fitness and adiposity (all measures p .001). Optimal time use differed for fitness and adiposity. While both maximized MVPA and minimized sedentary time, optimal fitness days had higher LPA (3.4 h) and shorter sleep (8.25 h), but optimal adiposity days had lower LPA (1.0 h) and longer sleep (10.9 h). Balancing both outcomes, the overall optimal time-use composition was (mean [range]): 10.2 [9.5 10.5] h sleep, 9.9 [8.8 11.2] h sedentary time, 2.4 [1.8 3.2] h LPA and 1.5 [1.5 1.5] h MVPA. Optimal time use for children’s fitness and adiposity involves trade-offs. To best balance both outcomes, estimated activity durations for sleep and LPA align with, but for MVPA exceed, 24-h guidelines.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.JSAMS.2014.08.004
Abstract: Sedentary behaviour (SB) is associated with a range of negative health outcomes, but little is known about the validity of self-report methods for measuring SB in older adults. Thus, the aim was to assess the reliability and validity of two instruments for measuring SB in older adults. Cross-sectional study. 41 community-dwelling older adults (14/27 male/female, 74.5 ± 7.6 years) wore an ActivPAL(3)™ (AP) for 7 consecutive days, then completed (1) a single question (SQ) to assess sitting time on a usual weekday, weekend day and yesterday (i.e. the last day of monitoring), and (2) a computer-delivered 24-h recall (MARCA) for the last two days. Intraclass correlation (ICC) and standard error of measurement (SEM) were used to assess test-retest reliability validity was examined using Spearman's correlation, mean bias and limits of agreement, and kappa for classifying tertiles of time in SB, with AP as the reference standard. For the SQ, the ICC ranged from 0.64 to 0.79, with SEM 1.03-1.42 h/day. ICC for the MARCA ranged from 0.72 to 0.96, with SEM 0.47-1.18 h/day. The SQ showed modest correlation with AP (r = 0.13-0.33), with mean biases of about -3.5 h/day. The MARCA showed moderate correlation with AP (r = 0.49-0.67), with mean biases of about 1.4 h/day. When categorised into tertiles, agreement was significant but fair for the SQ, and moderate for the MARCA. Both measures have acceptable reliability, but the MARCA provides more valid estimates of SB than the SQ, which underestimates SB in this group of older adults.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 2006
DOI: 10.1002/AJPA.20262
Abstract: The aims of this study were to assess 1) whether the stature-adjusted body mass index (BMI) is a valid proxy for adiposity across both athletic and nonathletic populations, and 2) whether skinfold measurements increase in proportion to body size, thus obeying the principle of geometric similarity. The research design was cross-sectional, allowing the relationship between skinfold calliper readings (at eight sites and between specific athletic and nonathletic groups, n = 478) and body size (either mass, stature, or both) to be explored both collectively, using proportional allometric MANCOVA, and in idually (for each site) with follow-up ANCOVAs. Skinfolds increase at a much greater rate relative to body mass than that assumed by geometric similarity, but taller subjects had less rather than more adiposity, calling into question the use of the traditional skinfold-stature adjustment, 170.18/stature. The best body-size index reflective of skinfold measurements was a stature-adjusted body mass index similar to the BMI. However, sporting differences in skinfold thickness persisted, having controlled for differences in body size (approximate BMI) and age, with male strength- and speed-trained athletes having significantly lower skinfolds (32% and 23%, respectively) compared with controls. Similarly, female strength athletes had 29% lower skinfold measurements compared to controls, having controlled for body size and age. These results cast serious doubts on the validity of BMI to represent adiposity accurately and its ability to differentiate between populations. These findings suggest a more valid (less biased) assessment of fatness will be obtained using surface anthropometry such as skinfolds taken by experienced practitioners following established procedures.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 16-05-2017
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 07-09-2013
DOI: 10.1111/J.2047-6310.2012.00083.X
Abstract: What is already known about this subject? Compared with their healthy-weight peers, children with obesity have impaired physical health-related quality of life reduced physical activity levels reduced capacity to perform certain weight-bearing tasks in field-based fitness tests What this study adds? First investigation of obesity-related disability in children using the International Classification for Functioning, Disability and Health framework for Children and Youth. Obesity in children appears to be associated with disability impacting basic locomotor skills and physical health-related quality of life. Children's participation in key life areas related to physical functioning appears to be minimally impacted by obesity. The aim of this study was to investigate whether obesity is related to impaired day-to-day physical functioning and disability in children. An observational case-control study was conducted in three Australian states. Obese (n = 107) and healthy-weight (n = 132) 10- to 13-year-olds (132 male, 107 female) were recruited via media advertisements. Assessment of body composition (dual energy X-ray absorptiometry), locomotor capacity (six-minute walk test [6MWT], timed up and down stairs test [TUDS] and timed up and go [TUG]) and child-reported physical health-related quality of life (HRQoL) were undertaken. Participants wore an accelerometer for 8 days and completed two use-of-time telephone interviews to assess participation in key life areas. Compared with their healthy-weight counterparts, obese children had lower physical HRQoL scores (P < 0.01) and reduced locomotor capacity (TUDS z-score, TUG and 6MWT P < 0.01). Higher percent body fat was significantly related to lower physical HRQoL scores (r = -0.48, P < 0.01), slower performance times for the TUDS and TUG (r = 0.59 and 0.26 respectively, P < 0.01), shorter 6MWT distances (r = -0.51, P < 0.01) and reduced time spent in community participation activities (r = -0.23, P < 0.01). As anticipated, obesity appears to undermine physical functioning in children, including the capacity to perform basic locomotor skills yet, unexpectedly, participation in key life areas related to physical functioning appeared largely unaffected.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 10-2015
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 03-2023
DOI: 10.1186/S12966-023-01416-2
Abstract: For adults, vacations represent a break from daily responsibilities of work – offering the opportunity to re-distribute time between sleep, sedentary behaviour, light physical activity (LPA) and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) across the 24-h day. To date, there has been minimal research into how activity behaviour patterns change on vacation, and whether any changes linger after the vacation. This study examined how daily movement behaviours change from before, to during and after vacations, and whether these varied based on the type of vacation and vacation duration. Data collected during the Annual Rhythms In Adults’ lifestyle and health (ARIA) study were used. 308 adults (mean age 40.4 years, SD 5.6) wore Fitbit Charge 3 fitness trackers 24 h a day for 13 months. Minute-by-minute movement behaviour data were aggregated into daily totals. Multi-level mixed-effects linear regressions were used to compare movement behaviours during and post-vacation (4 weeks) to pre-vacation levels (14 days), and to examine the associations with vacation type and duration. Participants took an average of 2.6 (SD = 1.7) vacations of 12 (SD = 14) days’ ( N = 9778 days) duration. The most common vacation type was outdoor recreation (35%) followed by family/social events (31%), rest (17%) and non-leisure (17%). Daily sleep, LPA and MVPA all increased (+ 21 min [95% CI = 19,24] p 0.001, + 3 min [95% CI = 0.4,5] p 0.02, and + 5 min [95% CI = 3,6] p 0.001 respectively) and sedentary behaviour decreased (-29 min [95% CI = -32,-25] p 0.001) during vacation. Post-vacation, sleep remained elevated for two weeks MVPA returned to pre-vacation levels and LPA and sedentary behaviour over-corrected, with LPA significantly lower for 4 weeks, and sedentary behaviour significantly higher for one week. The largest changes were seen for “rest” and “outdoor” vacations. The magnitude of changes was smallest for short vacations ( 3 days). Vacations are associated with favourable changes in daily movement behaviours. These data provide preliminary evidence of the health benefits of vacations. The study was prospectively registered on the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry (Trial ID: ACTRN12619001430123).
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2020
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2010
Abstract: Much attention has been paid to adolescents' screen time, however very few studies have examined non-screen sedentary time (NSST). This study aimed to (1) describe the magnitude and composition of screen sedentary time (SST) and NSST in Australian adolescents, (2) describe the socio-demographic correlates of SST and NSST, and (3) determine whether screen time is an adequate surrogate for total sedentary behaviour in this population. 2200 9-16 year old Australians provided detailed use of time data for four days. Non-screen sedentary time (NSST) included time spent participating in activities expected to elicit METs whilst seated or lying down (other than sleeping), excluding screen-based activities (television, playing videogames or using computers). Total sedentary time was the sum of screen time and NSST. Adolescents spent a mean (SD) of 345 (105) minutes/day in NSST, which constituted 60% of total sedentary time. School activities contributed 42% of NSST, socialising 19%, self-care (mainly eating) 16%, and passive transport 15%. Screen time and NSST showed opposite patterns in relation to key socio-demographic characteristics, including sex, age, weight status, household income, parental education and day type. Because screen time was negatively correlated with NSST (r = -0.58), and exhibited a moderate correlation (r = 0.53) with total sedentary time, screen time was only a moderately effective surrogate for total sedentary time. To capture a complete picture of young people's sedentary time, studies should endeavour to measure both screen time and NSST.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 27-11-2013
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 13-10-2019
DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2018.1523672
Abstract: Previous data have indicated relative stability over time of paediatric jumping performance, but few data exist since the early 2000s. This study quantified the 30-year secular changes in jumping performance of Australian children aged 11-12-years using data from the Australian Schools Health and Fitness Survey (1985, n = 1967) and Growing Up in Australia's Child Health CheckPoint (2015, n = 1765). Both cohorts measured jumping performance (standing long jump distance), anthropometric and demographic data. Secular changes in jumping performance means and quantiles were examined using multivariable linear and quantile regression. Between 1985 and 2015, jumping performance declined by 16.4 cm or by 11.2% (standardised change 0.66 SD, 95%CI 0.60 to 0.73). Adjustment for body mass reduced the effect by 32%, although the decline remained (absolute change - 11.1 cm, 95%CI -12.5 to -9.7 percent change 7.7%, 95%CI 6.7 to 8.6 standardised change 0.51 SD, 95%CI 0.44 to 0.57). This decline was evident across all quantiles. The jumping performance of Australian children aged 11-12-years has declined between 1985 and 2015, with body mass changes accounting for only part of the decline. Efforts should continue to promote paediatric muscular fitness, reduce adiposity, and aim to reverse this decline in jumping performance.
Publisher: Springer International Publishing
Date: 2021
Publisher: Georg Thieme Verlag KG
Date: 04-2007
Abstract: There is increasing evidence that the aerobic fitness performance of children is declining, at least in developed countries. To see if there was evidence of similar trends in a non-Western country, this study analysed data on 6-18-year-old Koreans tested between 1968 and 2000 using distance runs ranging from 600 to 1200 m. All existing data on the results of children's aerobic fitness tests in Korea were collated. In addition to six in idual studies, very large datasets were available from the Korean Ministries of Education, and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. Data on a total of 22,127,265 6-18-year-old children were available in the form of group means and standard deviations. Data were collated for each age x sex x test group, and performances were expressed as percentages of the fitted values for the year 1992 to standardise across tests, ages and sexes. All age x sex x test groups were then combined, and curves were fitted using weighted regression. A two-linear segment model best described the pattern of change (r = 0.83, p < 0.001). There was a relatively slow decline (0.26 % per year) in the aerobic performance of Korean children between 1968 and 1984. After 1984, however, there was a steep decline in performance, averaging 0.80 % per year. The rate of decline was greater in boys, younger children and children from outside the capital Seoul. Changes in running performance showed a similar pattern to changes in estimated body mass index. Compared to other countries, there has been a sharp decline in Korean children's performance on tests of aerobic fitness, which has been concurrent with increases in estimated body mass index.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 07-2019
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2018-023698
Abstract: Overweight and obesity remain at historically high levels, cluster within families and are established risk factors for multiple diseases. We describe the epidemiology and cross-generational concordance of body composition among Australian children aged 11–12 years and their parents. The population-based cross-sectional Child Health CheckPoint study, nested within the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children (LSAC). Assessment centres in seven major Australian cities and eight regional cities, or home visits February 2015–March 2016. Of all participating CheckPoint families (n=1874), body composition data were available for 1872 children (49% girls) and 1852 parents (mean age 43.7 years 88% mothers), including 1830 biological parent-child pairs. Height, weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference and waist-to-height ratio for all participants body fat and fat-free mass by four-limb bioimpedence analysis (BIA) at assessment centres, or body fat percentage by two-limb BIA at home visits. Analysis: parent-child concordance was assessed using (i) Pearson’s correlation coefficients, and (ii) partial correlation coefficients adjusted for age, sex and socioeconomic disadvantage. Survey weights and methods accounted for LSAC’s complex s le design. 20.7% of children were overweight and 6.2% obese, as were 33.5% and 31.6% of parents. Boys and girls showed similar distributions for all body composition measures but, despite similar BMI and waist-to-height ratio, mothers had higher proportions of total and truncal fat than fathers. Parent-child partial correlations were greatest for height (0.37, 95% CI 0.33 to 0.42). Other anthropometric and fat/lean measures showed strikingly similar partial correlations, ranging from 0.25 (95% CI 0.20 to 0.29) for waist circumference to 0.30 (95% CI 0.25 to 0.34) for fat-free percentage. Whole-s le and sex-specific percentile values are provided for all measures. Excess adiposity remains prevalent in Australian children and parents. Moderate cross-generational concordance across all measures of leanness and adiposity is already evident by late childhood.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 04-2013
DOI: 10.5665/SLEEP.2538
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.JSAMS.2010.10.461
Abstract: The aim of this study was to identify the most prevalent reported activities performed by Australian children during the lunchtime and after school periods and estimate the mean duration of a typical bout of the most prevalent activities performed during the lunchtime and after school periods. This study was a secondary data analysis of the 2007 Australian National Children's Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey. Use of time data were collected from Australian children aged 10.0-13.9 years (n=794) using the Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adults (MARCA). The most prevalent self-reported activities for the lunchtime and after school period on school days were determined by mean duration across the s le. The estimated energy cost for each of the activities was reported based on the Compendium of Energy Expenditures for Youth. A list of the 20 most prevalent lunchtime activities and 30 most prevalent after school activities is presented. Of the most prevalent lunchtime activities, 35% were classified as sedentary and 65% as moderate to vigorous physical activities. During the after school period, 57% of the most prevalent activities were classified as sedentary and only 43% as moderate to vigorous physical activities. These data may assist in the development or refinement of activity checklists with greater content validity, which may be used in combination with objective measures to provide important contextual information about the types of activities being performed and inform the development of appropriately targeted interventions.
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 02-2016
Abstract: The Canadian Assessment of Physical Literacy (CAPL) was conceptualized as a tool to monitor children’s physical literacy. The original model (fitness, activity behavior, knowledge, motor skill) required revision and relative weights for calculating/interpreting scores were required. Nineteen childhood physical activity/fitness experts completed a 3-round Delphi process. Round 1 was open-ended questions. Subsequent rounds rated statements using a 5-point Likert scale. Recommendations were sought regarding protocol inclusion, relative importance within composite scores and score interpretation. Delphi participant consensus was achieved for 64% (47/73) of statement topics, including a revised conceptual model, specific assessment protocols, the importance of longitudinal tracking, and the relative importance of in idual protocols and composite scores. Divergent opinions remained regarding the inclusion of sleep time, assessment/scoring of the obstacle course assessment of motor skill, and the need for an overall physical literacy classification. The revised CAPL model (overlapping domains of physical competence, motivation, and knowledge, encompassed by daily behavior) is appropriate for monitoring the physical literacy of children aged 8 to 12 years. Objectively measured domains (daily behavior, physical competence) have higher relative importance. The interpretation of CAPL results should be reevaluated as more data become available.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 05-1998
Abstract: In cycling stage races a small group of riders will often form a "breakaway" and establish a lead over the main group. This paper examines the factors that affect the likelihood of success for the breakaway. A mathematical approach is used, drawing on a model of cycling previously developed and validated (Olds et al. J Appl Physiol 78:1596 1611, 1995). In a breakaway group, the power required to overcome air resistance is reduced because the lead can be shared, with trailing riders sheltering or drafting behind leading riders. The benefit of drafting can be quantified as a function of the distance between riders using previously obtained data. Of course, this advantage is even greater in the (larger) chasing group, so that eventually the chasing group will catch the breakaway, assuming identical bicycles and physiological characteristics. The question addressed is: what factors determine how great a lead the breakaway must have in order for the chasing group to be unable to catch the breakaway before the finish of the race? Demand-side simulations show that the critical factors are: the distance remaining in the race the speed of the breakaway group the number of riders in the chasing and breakaway groups: how closely riders in each group draft one another the grade surface roughness as well as head- and cross-winds. When supply-side physiological factors are incorporated, the maximum sustainable speed and maximum lead time can be calculated.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 26-10-2015
Abstract: Prolonged sedentary behaviour has been associated with a number of chronic health conditions. This issue is compounded by inactivity increasing with age. This systematic review aimed to identify evidence regarding changes in sedentary behaviours as people move into retirement. Nine databases (Ageline, CINAHL, Cochrane, Embase, MEDLINE, ProQuest, PubMed, SportDiscus and Web of Science) were searched in May 2014. Search terms included retirement, time use and a range of sedentary behaviours, with no date limit. Articles were selected and appraised for risk of bias by two independent reviewers. Due to the variations in measures used for reporting, data synthesis of results was qualitative. Two studies measured total sitting time and reported declines across retirement. Several studies examined self-reported time spent in specific sedentary leisure activities and generally reported increases in duration, prevalence or frequency (television: 7/9 studies reading: 4/6 studies). Few other sedentary behaviours were considered. Changes in sedentary time across retirement are currently poorly understood with varying patterns of change identified by different study methodologies (total sitting time versus specific leisure sedentary activities). Future research that simultaneously investigates changes in a comprehensive range of sedentary behaviours across retirement is required. To date, findings suggest that interventions aimed at improving the health of this population need to be targeted at specific sedentary behaviours to provide maximum benefit.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.NEUROSCIENCE.2017.12.034
Abstract: Acute exercise studies using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can provide important insights into the mechanisms underpinning the positive relationship between regular engagement in physical activity and cortical neuroplasticity. Emerging evidence indicates that a single session of aerobic exercise can promote the response to an experimentally induced suppressive neuroplasticity paradigm however, little is known about the neuroplasticity response to facilitatory paradigms, including intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS). To more fully characterize the effects of exercise on brain plasticity we investigated if a single 30 min bout of high-intensity cycling (80% predicted heart rate reserve) modulated the response to an iTBS paradigm compared to rest. In 18 participants (9 females 25.5 ± 5.0 years, range: 18-35 years) iTBS was applied using standard repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation techniques immediately following exercise or 30 min of rest. Motor evoked potentials (MEPs) were recorded from the right first dorsal interosseous muscle at baseline, after the exercise/rest period but before iTBS, and at 5 time points following iTBS (0, 5, 10, 20 and 30 min). Contrary to our hypothesis, MEPs were suppressed following iTBS after a single 30 min bout of lower limb aerobic exercise compared to rest. These results indicate that acute aerobic exercise may not always enhance the response to an experimentally induced neuroplasticity paradigm. Further investigation of the factors that influence the relationship between exercise and neuroplasticity is warranted.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 29-03-2012
Abstract: The way an in idual uses one’s time can greatly affect his or her health. The purpose of this article was to examine the cross-sectional cross-elasticity relationships for use of time domains in a s le of Australian adolescents. This study analyzed 24-hour recall time use data collected using the Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adults ( N = 2,200). Using simple linear regression, the authors calculated the difference in time devoted to a reference activity (i.e., screen time, sleep, or social) given 1 hour extra in the time devoted to a criterion activity (i.e., physical activity). The most elastic activities were screen time and school-related time. Every additional hour committed to physical activity was associated with 32 minutes less screen time. This relationship was more pronounced in obese adolescents (−56 minutes screen time) compared with normal (−31 minutes) and overweight (−27 minutes) adolescents. Promising behavior patterns exist, with screen time appearing as a highly elastic behavior.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 28-06-2011
DOI: 10.1038/IJO.2011.128
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 27-11-2019
DOI: 10.2196/14645
Abstract: The success of a mobile phone app in changing health behavior is thought to be contingent on engagement, commonly operationalized as frequency of use. This subgroup analysis of the 2 intervention arms from a 3-group randomized controlled trial aimed to examine user engagement with a 100-day physical activity intervention delivered via an app. Rates of engagement, associations between user characteristics and engagement, and whether engagement was related to intervention efficacy were examined. Engagement was captured in a real-time log of interactions by users randomized to either a gamified (n=141) or nongamified version of the same app (n=160). Physical activity was assessed via accelerometry and self-report at baseline and 3-month follow-up. Survival analysis was used to assess time to nonuse attrition. Mixed models examined associations between user characteristics and engagement (total app use). Characteristics of super users (top quartile of users) and regular users (lowest 3 quartiles) were compared using t tests and a chi-square analysis. Linear mixed models were used to assess whether being a super user was related to change in physical activity over time. Engagement was high. Attrition (30 days of nonuse) occurred in 32% and 39% of the gamified and basic groups, respectively, with no significant between-group differences in time to attrition (P=.17). Users with a body mass index (BMI) in the healthy range had higher total app use (mean 230.5, 95% CI 190.6-270.5 F2=8.67 P .001), compared with users whose BMI was overweight or obese (mean 170.6, 95% CI 139.5-201.6 mean 132.9, 95% CI 104.8-161.0). Older users had higher total app use (mean 200.4, 95% CI 171.9-228.9 F1=6.385 P=.01) than younger users (mean 155.6, 95% CI 128.5-182.6). Super users were 4.6 years older (t297=3.6 P .001) and less likely to have a BMI in the obese range (χ22=15.1 P .001). At the 3-month follow-up, super users were completing 28.2 (95% CI 9.4-46.9) more minutes of objectively measured physical activity than regular users (F1,272=4.76 P=.03). Total app use was high across the 100-day intervention period, and the inclusion of gamified features enhanced engagement. Participants who engaged the most saw significantly greater increases to their objectively measured physical activity over time, supporting the theory that intervention exposure is linked to efficacy. Further research is needed to determine whether these findings are replicated in other app-based interventions, including those experimentally evaluating engagement and those conducted in real-world settings. Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12617000113358 www.anzctr.org.au/ACTRN12617000113358.aspx
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 02-01-2018
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 16-09-2016
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2011
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 12-2014
DOI: 10.2147/COPD.S74298
Publisher: American Medical Association (AMA)
Date: 27-07-2023
DOI: 10.1001/JAMANETWORKOPEN.2023.26038
Abstract: Obesity is a major global health concern. A better understanding of temporal patterns of weight gain will enable the design and implementation of interventions with potential to alter obesity trajectories. To describe changes in daily weight across 12 months among Australian adults. This cohort study conducted between December 1, 2019, and December 31, 2021 in Adelaide, South Australia, involved 375 community-dwelling adults aged 18 to 65 years. Participants wore a fitness tracker and were encouraged to weigh themselves, preferably daily but at least weekly, using a body weight scale. Data were remotely gathered using custom-developed software. Time assessed weekly, seasonally, and at Christmas/New Year and Easter. Data were visually inspected to assess the overall yearly pattern in weight change. Data were detrended (to remove systematic bias from intrain idual gradual increases or decreases in weight) by calculating a line of best fit for each in idual’s annual weight change relative to baseline and subtracting this from each participant’s weight data. Multilevel mixed-effects linear regression analysis was used to compare weight across days of the week and seasons and at Christmas/New Year and Easter. Of 375 participants recruited, 368 (mean [SD] age, 40.2 [5.9] years 209 [56.8%] female mean [SD] baseline weight, 84.0 [20.5] kg) provided at least 7 days of weight data for inclusion in analyses. Across the 12-month period, participants gained a median of 0.26% body weight (218 g) (range, −29.4% to 24.0%). Weight fluctuated by approximately 0.3% (252 g) each week, with Mondays and Tuesdays being the heaviest days of the week. Relative to Monday, participants’ weight gradually decreased from Tuesday, although not significantly so (mean [SE] weight change, 0.01% [0.03%] P = .83), to Friday (mean [SE] weight change, −0.18% [0.03%] P & .001) and increased across the weekend to Monday (mean [SE] weight change for Saturday, −0.16% [0.03%] P & .001 mean [SE] weight change for Sunday, −0.10% [0.03%] P & .001). Participants’ weight increased sharply at Christmas/New Year (mean [SE] increase, 0.65% [0.03%] z score, 25.30 P & .001) and Easter (mean [SE] weight change, 0.29% [0.02%], z score, 11.51 P & .001). Overall, participants were heaviest in summer (significantly heavier than in all other seasons), were lightest in autumn (mean [SE] weight change relative to summer, −0.47% [0.07%] P & .001), regained some weight in winter (mean [SE] weight change relative to summer, −0.23% [0.07%] P = .001), and became lighter in spring (mean [SE] weight change relative to summer, −0.27% [0.07%] P & .001). In this cohort study of Australian adults with weekly and yearly patterns in weight gain observed across 12 months, high-risk times for weight gain were Christmas/New Year, weekends, and winter, suggesting that temporally targeted weight gain prevention interventions may be warranted.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 18-07-2019
DOI: 10.1038/S41366-019-0407-Z
Abstract: Snacks contribute to overconsumption of energy-dense foods and thence obesity. Previous studies in this area are limited by self-reported data and small s les. In a large population-based cohort of parent-child dyads, we investigated how modification of pre-packaged snack food, i.e. (a) item quantity and variety, and (b) dishware (boxed container) size affected intake. Design: Randomized trial nested within the cross-sectional Child Health CheckPoint of the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children, clustered by day of visit. 1299 11-12 year olds, 1274 parents. 2 × 2 manipulation of snack box container size and item quantity/variety: (1) small box, few items, (2) large box, few items, (3) small box, more items, (4) large box, more items. Participants received a snack box during a 15 min break within their 3.5 h visit any snacks remaining were weighed. Consumed quantity (grams) and energy intake (kilojoules). Unadjusted linear regression. Children who were offered a greater quantity and variety of snack items consumed considerably more energy and a slightly higher food mass (main effect for energy intake: 349 kJ, 95% CI 282-416, standardized mean difference (effect size) 0.66 main effect for mass: 10 g, 95% CI 3-17, effect size 0.17). In contrast, manipulating box size had little effect on child consumption, and neither box size nor quantity/variety of items consistently affected adults' consumption. In children, reducing the number and variety of snack food items available may be a more fruitful intervention than focusing on container or dishware size. Effects observed among adults were small, although we could not exclude social desirability bias in adults aware of observation.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2006
DOI: 10.1111/J.1467-842X.2006.TB00106.X
Abstract: Excessive 'screen time' has been associated with a range of psychosocial disturbances and increasing pediatric obesity. This study describes the magnitude, distribution, composition and time-distribution of children's screen use examines correlates of screen use and characterises 'extreme' screen users (top quartile). 1,039 South Australian children aged 10-13 years old completed a multimedia 24-hour activity recall diary on 2-4 occasions in 2002, including at least one school day and one non-school day. The median screen time was 229 minutes.d(-1). This was higher in boys (264 vs. 196 minutes p<0.001) and on non-school days (260 vs. 190 minutes p 25% of screen time playing video games (OR=1.8), sleep less, and be of lower SES. Interventions to reduce screen time should target inactive, low-SES boys, encourage earlier bedtimes, and limit video game use.
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 11-2016
Abstract: Two years on from the inaugural Active Healthy Kids Australia (AHKA) Physical Activity Report Card, there has been little to no change with the majority of Australian children still insufficiently active. The 2016 AHKA Report Card was developed using the best available national- and state-based physical activity data, which were evaluated by the AHKA Research Working Group using predetermined weighting criteria and benchmarks to assign letter grades to the 12 Report Card indicators. In comparison with 2014, Overall Physical Activity Levels was again assigned a D - with Organized Sport and Physical Activity Participation increasing to a B (was B -) and Active Transport declining to a C - (was C ). The settings and sources of influence again performed well ( A - to a C +), however Government Strategies and Investments saw a decline ( C + to a D ). The traits associated with physical activity were also graded poorly ( C - to a D ). Australian youth are insufficiently active and engage in high levels of screen-based sedentary behaviors. While a range of support structures exist, Australia lacks an overarching National Physical Activity Plan that would unify the country and encourage the cultural shift needed to face the inactivity crisis head on.
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc
Date: 04-2016
Abstract: This study examined relationships between adiposity, physical functioning, and physical activity. Obese (N = 107) and healthy-weight (N = 132) children aged 10-13 years underwent assessments of percent body fat (%BF, dual energy X-ray absorptiometry) knee extensor strength (KE, isokinetic dynamometry) cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF, peak oxygen uptake by cycle ergometry) physical health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and worst pain intensity and walking capacity [six-minute walk (6MWT)]. Structural equation modelling was used to assess relationships between variables. Moderate relationships were observed between %BF and (1) 6MWT, (2) KE strength corrected for mass, and (3) CRF relative to mass (r -0.36 to -0.69, p ≤ 0.007). Weak relationships were found between %BF and physical HRQOL (r -0.27, p = 0.008) CRF relative to mass and physical HRQOL (r -0.24, p = 0.003) physical activity and 6MWT (r 0.17, p = 0.004). Squared multiple correlations showed that 29.6% variance in physical HRQOL was explained by %BF, pain, and CRF relative to mass while 28.0% variance in 6MWT was explained by %BF and physical activity. It appears that children with a higher body fat percentage have poorer KE strength, CRF, and overall physical functioning. Reducing percent fat appears to be the best target to improve functioning. However, a combined approach to intervention, targeting reductions in body fat percentage, reductions in pain, and improvements in physical activity and CRF may assist physical functioning.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 04-2012
DOI: 10.2522/PTJ.20110013
Abstract: The generation of research can be likened to the production of consumer goods, with a producer (the study authors and funders), a product (the study and publications arising from it), and consumers (those who read and cite the published study). The aim of this study was to use bibliometric indexes to track changes in the producers, products, and consumers of the journal Physical Therapy from 1945 through 2010. An analysis of published manuscripts (excluding letters, editorials, corrections, commentaries, and book reviews) in Physical Therapy was performed using a reliable bibliometric audit tool. Articles were s led every 3 months and at 5-year intervals over a 65-year period. Information relating to authorship, the research methods used, and citation patterns was collected. Data were analyzed descriptively. There have been substantial shifts in the nature of research published over the last 65 years in Physical Therapy. In 1945, the typical paper was anecdotal and authored by 1.4 American authors (working in hospitals), and consisted of 4 pages and 4 references. In 2010, the typical paper used a cross-sectional survey or randomized controlled trial design, with 4.6 multinational authors (working in universities), and consisted of 12 pages and 49 references. Findings are specific to the articles published in Physical Therapy that were s led in this bibliometric analysis. The changes seen in the research published in Physical Therapy mirror the shifts that have occurred in other industries: increasing quantification, standardization, collaboration, and internationalization. These trends are likely to continue in the future.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 10-2014
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.SMRV.2009.12.002
Abstract: To quantify the relationships between age, sex and country of residence and sleep time (time in bed) in young people aged 9-18 years. Thirty studies of sleep patterns in healthy adolescents from the last 30 years in 20 countries were reviewed. Monte Carlo simulation generated pseudo-data where only summary statistics were available. Raw and pseudo-data were combined, generating a total of 92,977 data points. A mixed model, clustering on countries, analysed data for school and non-school days separately. Sleep time varied with sex, age and geographical region. School day sleep differed slightly between boys and girls, girls sleeping 11 min/night more than boys (p = 0.003). On non-school days, girls slept 29 min more each day (p = 0.003). Sleep time declined with age, - 14 min/day per year of age (school days), and seven min/night per year of age (non-school days). Large differences between countries, showed adolescents from Asian countries sleeping 40-60 min less each night than Americans, and 60-120 min less than Europeans. Sex, age, geographical region and day type interact and predict sleep patterns in adolescents. One consistent trend is the increasing gap between sleep on school days and non-school days as adolescents get older.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 06-07-2021
DOI: 10.1186/S12889-021-11420-5
Abstract: The inverse relationship between moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) duration and childhood adiposity is well established. Less is known about how characteristics of MVPA accumulation may be associated with adiposity, independent of MVPA duration. This study aimed to investigate how the MVPA characteristics of children, other than duration (bout length, time of day, day-to-day consistency, intensity), were associated with adiposity. Cross-sectional study of the Australian arm of the International Study of Childhood Obesity, Lifestyle and the Environment (ISCOLE) (participants: n = 424, age range 9–11, 44% male). Adiposity was determined by percent body fat via bioelectrical impedance. MVPA duration and characteristics (bout length, time of day, consistency, intensity) were derived from 7-day, 24-h accelerometry. Generalised estimating equations were used to examine the in idual and multivariate associations between MVPA characteristics and adiposity. Univariate analyses showed that higher MVPA duration (β range = − 0.26,-0.15), longer bouts of MVPA (β range = 0.15,0.22) and higher MVPA intensity (β range = − 0.20,-0.13) were all inversely associated with adiposity (all p 0.05). When models were adjusted for MVPA duration, only MVPA intensity (β range = − 0.16,-0.04) showed consistent significant associations with adiposity. Characteristics of MVPA other than duration and intensity appear to be unrelated to adiposity.
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc
Date: 06-2022
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 24-05-2007
DOI: 10.1111/J.1651-2227.2007.00278.X
Abstract: To compare self-reported school-day sleep duration in 10- to 15-year-old South Australians between 1985 and 2004. Data were collected from 10- to 15-year-old participants in the 1985 Australian Schools Health and Fitness Survey (n = 390) and the 2004 South Australian Physical Activity Survey (n = 510). Identical self-report questionnaires were administered in both surveys, providing data on school-day bed-time, wake-time and sleep duration as well as age, gender and socioeconomic status (SES). Analysis of co-variance (ANCOVA), controlling for age and SES, was used to compare all sleep variables between surveys. Declines in sleep duration were found for both girls (28 min) and boys (33 min) between surveys. The reduction was more pronounced in 'lower SES' boys (44 min) than 'higher SES' boys (23 min). Boys reported later bed-time than girls in the 2004 survey, while no gender differences were apparent in the 1985 survey. Our findings suggest reductions in school-day sleep duration have occurred in Australian children and adolescents over the last 20 years, due largely to later bed-times. The physiological significance of these declines and mediating influences, such as SES, are yet to be explicated.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 02-2016
DOI: 10.2522/PTJ.20140522
Abstract: Excessive sitting time is linked to cardiovascular disease morbidity. To date, no studies have accurately measured sitting time patterns in people with stroke. The purpose of this study was to investigate the amount and pattern of accumulation of sitting time, physical activity, and use of time in people with stroke compared with age-matched healthy peers. This study used an observational design. Sitting time (total and time accumulated in prolonged, unbroken bouts of ≥30 minutes) was measured with an activity monitor. Physical activity and daily energy expenditure were measured using an accelerometer and a multisensory array armband, respectively. All monitors had a 7-day wear protocol. Participants recalled 1 day of activity (during monitor wear time) using the Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adults. Sixty-three adults (40 with stroke and 23 age-matched healthy controls) participated. The participants (35% female, 65% male) had a mean age of 68.4 years (SD=10.0). Participants with stroke spent significantly more time sitting (X̅=10.9 h/d, SD=2.0) compared with controls (X̅=8.2 h/d, SD=2.0), with much of this sitting time prolonged (stroke group: X̅=7.4 h/d, SD=2.8 control group: X̅=3.7 h/d, SD=1.7). Participants with stroke accumulated most of their sitting time while watching television and in general quiet time, whereas control participants spent more time reading and on the computer. Physical activity and daily energy expenditure were lower in the stroke group compared with the control group. A s le of convenience was used to select participants for the stroke and control groups, which may reduce the generalizability of results. Participants with stroke spent more time sitting and less time in activity than their age-matched peers. Further work is needed to determine whether reducing sitting time is feasible and leads to clinically important reductions in cardiovascular risk in this population.
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc
Date: 07-2023
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 09-11-2018
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 24-11-2022
DOI: 10.3389/FNHUM.2022.1051793
Abstract: Physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep are associated with cognitive function in older adults. However, these behaviours are not independent, but instead make up exclusive and exhaustive components of the 24-h day. Few studies have investigated associations between 24-h time-use composition and cognitive function in older adults. Of these, none have considered how the quality of sleep, or the context of physical activity and sedentary behaviour may impact these relationships. This study aims to understand how 24-h time-use composition is associated with cognitive function across a range of domains in healthy older adults, and whether the level of recreational physical activity, amount of television (TV) watching, or the quality of sleep impact these potential associations. 384 healthy older adults (age 65.5 ± 3.0 years, 68% female, 63% non-smokers, mean education = 16.5 ± 3.2 years) participated in this study across two Australian sites (Adelaide, n = 207 Newcastle, n = 177). Twenty-four-hour time-use composition was captured using triaxial accelerometry, measured continuously across 7 days. Total time spent watching TV per day was used to capture the context of sedentary behaviours, whilst total time spent in recreational physical activity was used to capture the context of physical activity (i.e., recreational accumulation of physical activity vs. other contexts). Sleep quality was measured using a single item extracted from the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Cognitive function was measured using a global cognition index (Addenbrooke’s Cognitive Examination III) and four cognitive domain composite scores (derived from five tests of the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery: Paired Associates Learning One Touch Stockings of Cambridge Multitasking Reaction Time Verbal Recognition Memory). Pairwise correlations were used to describe independent relationships between time use variables and cognitive outcomes. Then, compositional data analysis regression methods were used to quantify associations between cognition and 24-h time-use composition. After adjusting for covariates and false discovery rate there were no significant associations between time-use composition and global cognition, long-term memory, short-term memory, executive function, or processing speed outcomes, and no significant interactions between TV watching time, recreational physical activity engagement or sleep quality and time-use composition for any cognitive outcomes. The findings highlight the importance of considering all activities across the 24-h day against cognitive function in older adults. Future studies should consider investigating these relationships longitudinally to uncover temporal effects.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.PUHE.2016.06.022
Abstract: To identify current prevalence and sociodemographic distribution of adherence to national diet and physical activity and sedentary behaviour guidelines among Australian primary school children. Cross-sectional survey of children (n = 4637, 9-11 years) participating at baseline in the South Australian Obesity Prevention and Lifestyle (OPAL) programme evaluation. Self-reported diet, physical activity (PA) and screen time (ST) behaviours were assessed via questionnaire. Children were classified as meeting or not meeting each guideline (two or more serves of fruit, five or more serves of vegetables, two or less serves of discretionary food, ≥60 min of PA, and ≤2 h of ST per day). Although 65% of children met fruit recommendations, only 22% met vegetable recommendations (17% consumed no vegetables). Approximately one-quarter (28%) of children met discretionary food recommendations. Only 17% of children met the ST recommendations and 33% met PA recommendations. Less than 1% of children met all five recommendations. Rural children were more likely to meet both PA (OR = 1.45, 95% CI: 1.21-1.74, P < 0.001) and ST (OR = 1.37, 95% CI: 1.14-1.66, P < 0.01) recommendations than urban counterparts. Children at least socio-economic disadvantage performed better than those at greatest disadvantage for most behaviours. Improvement in Australian children's diet and physical activity and sedentary behaviours, particularly urban children and those at greatest socio-economic disadvantage, is urgently warranted.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 10-03-2021
DOI: 10.1111/APA.15813
Abstract: To examine associations between patterns of language use and early adolescent well‐being. Participants were 1763 Australian 11‐ to 12‐year‐olds in the Child Health CheckPoint. Six patterns of language use were identified from a writing activity using Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count and factor analysis: Acting in the present and future , Positive emotion , Gender and relationships , Self‐aware, Inquisitive and time focused, and Confident . Well‐being measures represented a spectrum from negatively to positively framed psychosocial health. Associations between language use and well‐being were estimated using linear regression adjusted for age, sex and social disadvantage. Positive emotion (high emotional tone, positive emotion) was associated with better general well‐being (standardised regression coefficient (SRC) 0.05 95% confidence interval 0.00 to 0.11 p = 0.04), life satisfaction (0.06 0.01 to 0.11 p = 0.03), psychosocial health (0.07 0.02 to 0.12 p = 0.01) and quality of life (QoL) (0.06 0.01 to 0.11 p = 0.02). Similarly, Self‐aware (high first person singular pronouns, authentic, low clout) was associated with better general well‐being, life satisfaction and psychosocial health (SRC 0.05, 0.09, 0.08), but Confident (high clout, first person plural pronouns, affiliation) was associated with worse life satisfaction, psychosocial health and QoL (SRC −0.06, −0.09, −0.06). If replicated in ‘real‐world’ settings (e.g., social media), language patterns could provide naturalistic insights into early adolescents’ well‐being.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 16-03-2018
Abstract: Descriptions of time use patterns in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are scarce and the relationship between use-of-time and COPD severity remains unclear. This study aimed to describe a typical day for people with COPD and to explore the differences in time-use patterns across the Body Mass-Index, Airflow Obstruction, Dyspnoea and Exercise Capacity (BODE) index using compositional analyses. Using a cross-sectional design, 141 adults with clinically stable COPD had their demographics, objective measures of function (pulmonary, exercise capacity and physical activity), and self-reported COPD-related impairment recorded. Daily time-use compositions were derived from 24-h accelerometry and 24-h use-of-time recall interviews. Compositional multiple linear regression models were used to explore the relationship between the BODE index and 24-h time-use compositions. These models were used to predict daily time (min/d) that is spent in time-use components across the BODE index. The BODE index score was clearly associated with 24-h accelerometry (p 0.0001) and 24-h use-of-time recall (p 0.0001) compositions. Relative to the remaining time-use components, higher BODE index scores were associated with greater sedentary behaviour (p 0.0001), Quiet time (p 0.0001), Screen time (p = 0.001) and Self-care (p = 0.022), and less daily Chores (p 0.0001) and Household administration (p = 0.015) time. As the BODE index scores increased, time-use predictions were strongly associated with decreases in Chores (up to 206 min/d), and increases in Screen (up to 156 min/d) and Quiet time (up to 131 min/d). Time–use patterns may provide a basis for planning interventions relative to the severity of COPD.
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 11-2015
Abstract: The detailed patterns of physical activity and sedentary behaviors of overweight and obese adolescents are unknown, but may be important for health outcomes and targeted intervention design. Participants completed Curtin University’s Activity, Food and Attitudes Program (CAFAP), an 8-week intervention with 12 months of maintenance intervention. Physical activity and sedentary time were assessed at 6 time periods with accelerometers and were analyzed by 1) time and type of day, 2) intensity bout patterns using exposure variation analysis, and 3) in idual case analysis. Participants (n = 56) spent a lower percentage of time at baseline in light activity during school days compared with weekend days (24.4% vs 29.0%, P = .004). The majority of time was in long uninterrupted sedentary bouts of greater than 30 minutes (26.7% of total time, 36.8% of sedentary time at baseline). Moderate activity was accumulated in short bouts of less than 5 minutes (3.1% of total time, 76.0% moderate time). Changes varied by in iduals. Exposure variation analysis revealed specific changes in activity patterns in overweight and obese adolescents who participated in a lifestyle intervention. A better understanding of these patterns can help to design interventions that meaningfully affect specific behaviors, with unique health consequences.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-05-2017
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2008
DOI: 10.1016/J.HEALTHPLACE.2007.08.005
Abstract: Two studies were conducted to examine the interactions between gender, play area, motor skills and free play activity in 8-11 year old school children. In both studies, boys were more active than girls. In boys, but not in girls, energy expenditure was greater for high-skill than for low-skill children (p = 0.0002), and increased as play area increased (p = 0.01). These results suggest that motor skills and play space are important variables in determining the free play activity of boys, but not of girls. This may be related to widely different play styles among boys and girls.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 02-09-2020
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 13-07-2015
DOI: 10.2196/JMIR.4086
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 03-2015
Abstract: To date, most health-related time-use research has investigated behaviors in isolation more recently, however, researchers have begun to conceptualize behaviors in the form of multidimensional patterns or clusters. The study employed 2 techniques: radar graphs and centroid vector length, angles and distance to quantify pairwise time-use cluster similarities among adolescents living in Australia (N = 1853) and in New Zealand (N = 679). Based on radar graph shape, 2 pairs of clusters were similar for both boys and girls. Using vector angles (VA), vector length (VL) and centroid distances (CD), 1 pair for each sex was considered most similar (boys: VA = 63°, VL = 44 and 50 units, and CD = 48 units girls: VA = 23°, VL = 65 and 85 units, and CD = 36 units). Both methods employed to determine similarity had strengths and weaknesses. Conclusions: The description and quantification of cluster similarity is an important step in the research process. An ability to track and compare clusters may provide greater understanding of complex multidimensional relationships, and in relation to health behavior clusters, present opportunities to monitor and to intervene.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2016
Abstract: The trichomonads are a remarkably successful lineage of ancient, predominantly parasitic protozoa. Recent molecular analyses have revealed extensive duplication of certain genetic loci in trichomonads. Consequently, their genomes are exceptionally large compared to other parasitic protozoa. Retention of these large gene expansions across different trichomonad families raises the question: do these duplications afford an advantage? Many duplicated genes are linked to the parasitic lifestyle and some are regulated differently to their paralogues, suggesting they have acquired new functions. It is proposed that these large genomes encode a Swiss army knife of sorts, packed with a multitude of tools for use in many different circumstances. This may have bestowed trichomonads with the extraordinary versatility that has undoubtedly contributed to their success.
Publisher: Queensland University of Technology
Date: 06-08-2018
Abstract: Starting university changes the way students must structure their day. This study describes the patterns of time use of 444 Australian first year students and explores differences between gender and age groups. Overall, students were studying on average four hours per day (h/day), sleeping eight h/day and meeting Australian physical activity guidelines. A sizable portion of students’ days were spent engaging in ‘non-modifiable’ activities including self-care, chores and travel. Stereotypical gender and age differences were observed, with males accumulating significantly more screen-time (+68 minutes per day [min/d]) and physical activity (+21 min/d), while females did more chores (+18 min/d) and self-care (+26 min/d). Younger students slept more (+42 min/d), and did fewer chores (-43 min/d). Given there are strong associations between how students use their time and health, well-being and academic success, a better understanding of how students allocate their time on a day-to-day basis will enable more effective support for students in making these changes.
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc
Date: 18-10-2023
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 11-12-2016
DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2015.1123285
Abstract: Fitness is an important component of health, and obese adolescents regularly have poor fitness. Unfortunately, few have assessed the impact of community-based lifestyle interventions on multiple components of fitness. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of participation in a community-based intervention involving adolescents and parents on multiple components of fitness of obese adolescents. In a within-subject, waitlist controlled clinical trial with 12 months follow-up in Western Australia, participants (n = 56) completed multiple fitness measures at baseline, immediately prior to beginning an 8-week intervention and at 3, 6 and 12 months during a maintenance period. Performance on the shuttle walk was improved immediately post-intervention (increase of 42.8 m, 95% CI: 7.5, 78.2) and at 12 months post-intervention (increase of 44.6 m, 95% CI: 1.3, 87.8) compared with pre-intervention. Muscle performance of quadriceps and deltoids were improved post-intervention (increase of 1.1 (95% CI: 0.1, 2.1) kg · F and 1.0 (0.02, 2.1) kg · F, respectively) and all muscle performance measures were improved at 12 months following the intervention. There were no changes in waist circumference. A community-based lifestyle programme such as Curtin University's Activity, Food and Attitudes Program (CAFAP) may be a viable strategy for improving fitness in overweight adolescents.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 04-08-2010
DOI: 10.1111/J.1365-2214.2010.01105.X
Abstract: Health outcomes measurement is integral to planning and evaluating paediatric health care. Recent outcome measures have been developed to capture children's participation in everyday activities, a core component of which is the child's perceived satisfaction. Satisfaction, however, is a complex concept and it is not known how children conceptualize satisfaction and hence how it should best be measured. The purpose of this study was to explore children's conceptualization of the term 'satisfaction' and compare this with the description of satisfaction given in the literature to inform how satisfaction can be assessed in children. Forty children aged between 10 and 15 years participated in eight focus groups, guided by a descriptive qualitative approach, to describe how they conceptualize 'satisfaction'. Children with disabilities were excluded as it was considered important to first ascertain how children without disabilities conceptualize satisfaction. Recruitment occurred through seven urban and rural public schools. Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis. Participants identified three methods by which a person may determine their level of satisfaction (i) making comparisons with previous experiences, and other's and self-expectations (ii) evaluating one's emotions and (iii) receiving positive external feedback. Participants described drawing upon one of these methods in isolation, rather than integrating outcomes from each method into one judgement of satisfaction. Participants also demonstrated confusion between the terms 'satisfaction' and 'satisfactory'. Partial congruence between children's conceptualization of satisfaction and that reported in the literature was observed in this study. Not all children between the ages of 10 and 15, however, have a full understanding of satisfaction. Caution must therefore be taken when using the term satisfaction in children's assessments to minimize the potential for varying interpretations of the question. Further studies are required to explore how children with disabilities view the term satisfaction and if their understanding differs to that of typically developing children.
Publisher: Active Healthy Kids Australia
Date: 2016
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 11-02-2015
Publisher: OMICS Publishing Group
Date: 2015
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 16-08-2019
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 29-12-2012
Abstract: Background. To influence adolescent health, a greater understanding of time use and covariates such as gender is required. Purpose. To explore gender-specific time use patterns in Australian adolescents using high-resolution time use data. Method. This study analyzed 24-hour recall time use data collected as part of the 2007 Australian National Children’s Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey ( n = 2,200). Univariate analyses to determine gender differences in time use were conducted. Results. Boys spent more ( p .0001) time participating in screen-based (17.7 % vs. 14.2% daily time) and physical activities (10.7% vs. 9.2%). Girls spent more ( p .0001) time being social (4.7% vs. 3.4% daily time), studying (2.0% vs. 1.7%), and doing household chores (4.7% vs. 3.4%). Conclusions. There are gender-specific differences in time use behavior among Australian adolescents. The results reinforce existing time use gender-based stereotypes. Implications. The gender-specific time use behaviors offer intervention design possibilities.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 07-01-2021
DOI: 10.1186/S12889-020-10054-3
Abstract: Almost one in three Australian adults are now obese, and the rate continues to rise. The causes of obesity are multifaceted and include environmental, cultural and lifestyle factors. Emerging evidence suggests there may be temporal patterns in weight gain related, for ex le, to season and major festivals such as Christmas, potentially due to changes in diet, daily activity patterns or both. The aim of this study is to track the annual rhythm in body weight, 24 h activity patterns, dietary patterns, and wellbeing in a cohort of Australian adults. In addition, through data linkage with a concurrent children’s cohort study, we aim to examine whether changes in children’s body mass index, activity and diet are related to those of their parents. A community-based s le of 375 parents aged 18 to 65 years old, residing in or near Adelaide, Australia, and who have access to a Bluetooth-enabled mobile device or a computer and home internet, will be recruited. Across a full year, daily activities (minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity, light physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep) will be measured using wrist-worn accelerometry (Fitbit Charge 3). Body weight will be measured daily using Fitbit wifi scales. Self-reported dietary intake (Dietary Questionnaire for Epidemiological Studies V3.2), and psychological wellbeing (WHOQOL-BREF and DASS-21) will be assessed eight times throughout the 12-month period. Annual patterns in weight will be examined using Lowess curves. Associations between changes in weight and changes in activity and diet compositions will be examined using repeated measures multi-level models. The associations between parent’s and children’s weight, activity and diet will be investigated using multi-level models. Temporal factors, such as day type (weekday or weekend day), cultural celebrations and season, may play a key role in weight gain. The aim is to identify critical opportunities for intervention to assist the prevention of weight gain. Family-based interventions may be an important intervention strategy. Australia New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry, identifier ACTRN12619001430123 . Prospectively registered on 16 October 2019.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 16-02-2023
DOI: 10.1136/BJSPORTS-2022-106195
Abstract: To synthesise the evidence on the effects of physical activity on symptoms of depression, anxiety and psychological distress in adult populations. Umbrella review. Twelve electronic databases were searched for eligible studies published from inception to 1 January 2022. Systematic reviews with meta-analyses of randomised controlled trials designed to increase physical activity in an adult population and that assessed depression, anxiety or psychological distress were eligible. Study selection was undertaken in duplicate by two independent reviewers. Ninety-seven reviews (1039 trials and 128 119 participants) were included. Populations included healthy adults, people with mental health disorders and people with various chronic diseases. Most reviews (n=77) had a critically low A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews score. Physical activity had medium effects on depression (median effect size=−0.43, IQR=−0.66 to –0.27), anxiety (median effect size=−0.42, IQR=−0.66 to –0.26) and psychological distress (effect size=−0.60, 95% CI −0.78 to –0.42), compared with usual care across all populations. The largest benefits were seen in people with depression, HIV and kidney disease, in pregnant and postpartum women, and in healthy in iduals. Higher intensity physical activity was associated with greater improvements in symptoms. Effectiveness of physical activity interventions diminished with longer duration interventions. Physical activity is highly beneficial for improving symptoms of depression, anxiety and distress across a wide range of adult populations, including the general population, people with diagnosed mental health disorders and people with chronic disease. Physical activity should be a mainstay approach in the management of depression, anxiety and psychological distress. CRD42021292710.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.MATURITAS.2016.05.009
Abstract: How people use their time has health implications, but use of time may be influenced by factors such as age, sex, education and health. This study aimed to provide detailed information on the daily activity patterns of older working people. 139 older Australian adults (aged 50-79 years) undertook comprehensive interviews on their use of time. This paper presents a cross-sectional analysis of the baseline findings from a longitudinal study. Use of time was measured using the Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adults (MARCA), administered via computer-assisted phone interview. Activity patterns were described, and compared on the basis of sex, education and health status. The main activities undertaken were sleep (mean 466min/day), work (mean 233min/day) and chores (mean 160min/day), with little time spent on physical activity (mean 13min/day). Women spent more time doing chores (p<0.001) while men spent more time on vigorous activities (p<0.001). Participants with "fair" health spent less time on inside chores (p=0.05) and grooming (p=0.02) than healthier participants. Healthy lifestyle interventions for older workers should aim to increase physical activity levels by targeting specific activities, depending on sex and health status.
Publisher: Georg Thieme Verlag KG
Date: 10-2000
DOI: 10.1055/S-2000-7421
Abstract: This study investigated using reticulocyte (retic) parameters as indirect markers of human recombinant erythropoietin (r-HuEPO) abuse in elite athletes. Absolute reticulocyte count (# retic), the per cell haemoglobin content of reticulocytes (CHr), reticulocyte haemoglobin mass per litre of blood (RetHb) and red blood cell:reticulocyte haemoglobin (RBCHb:RetHb) ratio were assessed using flow cytometry. Venous blood was drawn from 155 elite athletes from six sports during regular training to establish reference ranges (95% confidence interval) for these parameters. The reference ranges were compared with those of a non-athletic population (n = 23), four groups of athletes (n = 24) before and after exposure to simulated altitudes (2,500-3,000 m for 11-23 nights), two groups of elite cyclists (n = 13) before and after four weeks of training at natural altitude (1,780 and 2,690 m), and with those of non-athletic subjects from a separate study (n =24) before and 1-2 days after they were injected with 1,200 U x kg(-1) r-HuEPO over a 9-10 day period. Generally the changes induced by r-HuEPO injection exceeded by approximately 100% the magnitude of the changes associated with natural altitude exposure. Simulated altitude exposure did not significantly alter the reticulocyte parameters. From the s le of 155 non-users and 24 r-HuEPO users, the population mean and variance, as well as the 95% confidence limits for the population mean and population variance, were estimated. Relative to arbitrarily chosen cut-off levels, the confidence limits for the rate of true positives and rate of true negatives were also calculated. Based on the lowest rate of false positives and highest rate of true positives, the best discriminator between r-HuEPO users and non-users was # retic, marginally superior to RBCHb: RetHb ratio and RetHb. At a cut-off for # retic of 221 x 10(9)x L(-1) we could be 95% sure that we would find no more than 7 false positives in every 100,000 tests. We would expect to pick up 51.8% of users, and could be 95% sure of picking up at least 38% of current or recent users. This result highlights the potential power of retic parameters for detecting r-HuEPO abuse among athletes. However, the efficacy of these cut-offs for detecting r-HuEPO abuse is unknown if an athlete is a chronic user or stops using r-HuEPO several weeks before being tested.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 03-06-2019
DOI: 10.2196/12484
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 23-02-2023
DOI: 10.1111/JSR.13855
Abstract: Micronutrients, particularly amino acids, are thought to play an important role in sleep regulation and maintenance. While tryptophan is a known predictor of sleep, less is known about branched‐chain amino acids (BCAAs), which compete with tryptophan for transport across the blood–brain barrier. The aim of this study was to determine the association between BCAAs and actigraphy‐derived sleep duration, timing and efficiency, and self‐reported trouble sleeping. This study examined data on children and adults collected as part of the Child Health CheckPoint study. Linear mixed models, adjusted for geographic clustering, were used to determine the association between BCAAs and sleep characteristics. Complete‐case analysis was conducted for 741 children aged 11–12 years old (51% females) and 941parents (87% mothers). While BCAAs were significantly associated with children's sleep duration, timing and self‐reported trouble sleeping, no associations were observed in adults, in fully adjusted models. In children, higher levels of BCAAs are associated with shorter sleep duration, delayed sleep timing, and more frequent reports of trouble sleeping.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.PUHE.2017.07.010
Abstract: To examine whether meeting vs not meeting movement/non-movement guidelines (moderate-to-vigorous physical activity [MVPA], screen time, sleep duration), and combinations of these recommendations, are associated with health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in children from 12 countries in five major geographic regions of the world and explore whether the associations vary by study site. Observational, multinational cross-sectional study. This study included 6106 children aged 9-11 years from sites in Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Colombia, Finland, India, Kenya, Portugal, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Participants completed the KIDSCREEN-10 to provide a global measure of their HRQoL. Sleep duration and MVPA were assessed using 24-h accelerometry. Screen time was assessed through self-report. Meeting the recommendations was defined as ≥60 min/day for MVPA, ≤2 h/day for screen time, and between 9 and 11 h/night for sleep duration. Age, sex, highest parental education, unhealthy diet pattern score, and body mass index z-score were included as covariates in statistical models. In the full s le, children meeting the screen time recommendation, the screen time + sleep recommendation, and all three recommendations had significantly better HRQoL than children not meeting any of these guidelines. Differences in HRQoL scores between sites were also found within combinations of movement/non-movement behaviors. For ex le, while children in Australia, Canada, and USA self-reported better HRQoL when meeting all three recommendations, children in Kenya and Portugal reported significantly lower HRQoL when meeting all three recommendations (relative to not meeting any). Self-reported HRQoL is generally higher when children meet established movement/non-movement recommendations. However, differences between study sites also suggest that interventions aimed at improving lifestyle behaviors and HRQoL should be locally and culturally adapted.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 11-06-2015
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 20-03-2012
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 10-05-2018
DOI: 10.1111/JOSH.12631
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to determine whether there was an association between dietary patterns and children's academic performance. This cross-sectional study involved 315 children aged 9-11 years from 26 schools in Australia. Academic performance was measured in 4 domains (reading, writing, numeracy, and language-subdomains: spelling, grammarm and punctuation) using the National Assessment Program in Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN). A self-reported child questionnaire collected dietary intake data. "Core" (healthy) and "noncore" (unhealthy) dietary patterns were derived using principal components analysis. The noncore pattern was associated with lower NAPLAN scores across all academic domains (mean: -12.6, 95% CI: -18.7 to -6.4, r Academic performance was deleteriously associated with a nutrient-poor, energy-dense diet, yet not associated with a nutritious diet.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 1999
Abstract: Several studies have reported values for projected frontal area in cycling. Even when similar systems (i.e. riders and bicycles) have been measured, the results have erged widely. It seems likely that this variability is due to methodological differences. The aims of the present study were to compare three methods of determining the frontal area in cyclists, and to determine the effects on the measured frontal area of variables which contribute to distortion and perspective in photographs. Theoretical models were developed to describe the expected effects of changing the relative position of the cyclist and the reference dimension, the position of the camera relative to the cyclist, and the focal length of the camera. Photographs were then taken of cyclists using different camera positions and settings, and analysed using three different methods: photographic weighing and manual and computerized planimetry. All three methods showed high precision and reliability, and yielded results that were substantially similar (mean values differed by 8% for focal lengths ranging from 28 to 70 mm. These results showed close agreement with the theoretical models, and can be explained in terms of the perspective and distortion effects which occur in photography. The results demonstrate the importance of standardization in measuring the frontal area of cyclists.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 08-1993
DOI: 10.1007/BF00376659
Abstract: Natural language processing (NLP) research combines the study of universal principles, through basic science, with applied science targeting specific use cases and settings. However, the process of exchange between basic NLP and applications is often assumed to emerge naturally, resulting in many innovations going unapplied and many important questions left unstudied. We describe a new paradigm of
Publisher: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
Date: 04-2014
Abstract: To explore the relationship between weight status (BMI) and health-related quality of life in children and adolescents through application of the Child Health Utility 9D, a new generic preference-based instrument. Data were collected from primary and high school students in rural and metropolitan regions of South Australia. Consenting participants (2588 in grades 4–6 and 765 in grades 9–10) were weighed and measured and categorized as underweight, healthy weight, overweight, or obese according to International Obesity Taskforce BMI cutoff points (primary outcome). Participants also completed a questionnaire including the Child Health Utility 9D and standardized measures of physical activity, sedentary behavior, sleep patterns, and eating behavior (secondary outcomes). Descriptive and multivariate linear regression analyses were undertaken to calculate mean utility differences. In comparison with healthy-weight primary school students, adjusted mean utilities were lower for overweight (−0.016, P = .02) or obese (−0.039, P = .001) students. For high school students, the adjusted mean utilities were also lower for overweight and obese students but were nonsignificant (−0.018, P & .10). Physical activity, sedentary behavior, sleep patterns, and eating behavior were all found to be significantly associated with utilities. Irrespective of BMI, young people engaging in more physical activities or less sedentary behavior, and having healthier sleep patterns or eating behavior exhibited higher utilities. Associations between utilities and sleep patterns or eating behavior were stronger than the associations with BMI. Future economic evaluations for obesity interventions should more formally investigate the relationship between changes over time in weight status and health-related quality of life for children and adolescents.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 05-08-2016
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 25-03-2013
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2009
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 30-05-2018
Abstract: The health effects of daily activity behaviours (physical activity, sedentary time and sleep) are widely studied. While previous research has largely examined activity behaviours in isolation, recent studies have adjusted for multiple behaviours. However, the inclusion of all activity behaviours in traditional multivariate analyses has not been possible due to the perfect multicollinearity of 24-h time budget data. The ensuing lack of adjustment for known effects on the outcome undermines the validity of study findings. We describe a statistical approach that enables the inclusion of all daily activity behaviours, based on the principles of compositional data analysis. Using data from the International Study of Childhood Obesity, Lifestyle and the Environment, we demonstrate the application of compositional multiple linear regression to estimate adiposity from children’s daily activity behaviours expressed as isometric log-ratio coordinates. We present a novel method for predicting change in a continuous outcome based on relative changes within a composition, and for calculating associated confidence intervals to allow for statistical inference. The compositional data analysis presented overcomes the lack of adjustment that has plagued traditional statistical methods in the field, and provides robust and reliable insights into the health effects of daily activity behaviours.
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2022
DOI: 10.1039/D2MH00263A
Abstract: Doped metal oxide nanostructures with tunable plasmonic features enable a variety of high-performance biological applications.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 09-05-2019
Abstract: he success of a mobile phone app in changing health behavior is thought to be contingent on engagement, commonly operationalized as frequency of use. his subgroup analysis of the 2 intervention arms from a 3-group randomized controlled trial aimed to examine user engagement with a 100-day physical activity intervention delivered via an app. Rates of engagement, associations between user characteristics and engagement, and whether engagement was related to intervention efficacy were examined. ngagement was captured in a real-time log of interactions by users randomized to either a gamified (n=141) or nongamified version of the same app (n=160). Physical activity was assessed via accelerometry and self-report at baseline and 3-month follow-up. Survival analysis was used to assess time to nonuse attrition. Mixed models examined associations between user characteristics and engagement (total app use). Characteristics of super users (top quartile of users) and regular users (lowest 3 quartiles) were compared using italic t /italic tests and a chi-square analysis. Linear mixed models were used to assess whether being a super user was related to change in physical activity over time. ngagement was high. Attrition (30 days of nonuse) occurred in 32% and 39% of the gamified and basic groups, respectively, with no significant between-group differences in time to attrition ( italic P /italic =.17). Users with a body mass index (BMI) in the healthy range had higher total app use (mean 230.5, 95% CI 190.6-270.5 italic F /italic sub /sub =8.67 italic P /italic & .001), compared with users whose BMI was overweight or obese (mean 170.6, 95% CI 139.5-201.6 mean 132.9, 95% CI 104.8-161.0). Older users had higher total app use (mean 200.4, 95% CI 171.9-228.9 italic F /italic sub /sub =6.385 italic P /italic =.01) than younger users (mean 155.6, 95% CI 128.5-182.6). Super users were 4.6 years older (t sub /sub =3.6 italic P /italic & .001) and less likely to have a BMI in the obese range (χ sup /sup sub /sub =15.1 italic P /italic & .001). At the 3-month follow-up, super users were completing 28.2 (95% CI 9.4-46.9) more minutes of objectively measured physical activity than regular users ( italic F /italic sub ,272 /sub =4.76 italic P /italic =.03). otal app use was high across the 100-day intervention period, and the inclusion of gamified features enhanced engagement. Participants who engaged the most saw significantly greater increases to their objectively measured physical activity over time, supporting the theory that intervention exposure is linked to efficacy. Further research is needed to determine whether these findings are replicated in other app-based interventions, including those experimentally evaluating engagement and those conducted in real-world settings.
Publisher: The Haworth Press
Date: 2008
Abstract: Health Related Quality of Life (HRQOL) is an important outcome in the delivery of health care. Research on the HRQOL in young people with cerebral palsy (CP) has relied on proxy-reports from parents. The purpose of this study was to investigate the self-reported HRQOL of young people with CP. A survey was mailed to 229 adolescents with CP in South Australia, of which 118 responded (51.5%). Seventy-one participants 11 to 17 years of age, self-reported HRQOL on the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0 (PedsQL). Thirty-eight youth were deemed by their parent/guardian as having insufficient cognitive ability to self-report HRQOL and nine respondents returned their surveys incomplete. The mean PedsQL Physical Function score was 57.3 (SD = 24.3), the mean Psychosocial Function score was 64.5 (SD = 15.9), and the Overall PedsQL score was 62.0 (SD = 16.7). Compared to norms for children without disabilities, 67% of participants had an Overall PedsQL score greater than 1 SD below the mean. PedsQL scores were related to gross motor function classification level (Spearman's rho = -0.54), number of health issues (rho = -0.51), and socioeconomic status (rho = 0.28), but not age, gender, quality of sleep, or whether parent assistance was needed to complete the PedsQL. The results have implications for policy and efforts to identify and address barriers to full and satisfying participation in mainstream schools and community activities.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 07-2019
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2017-020895
Abstract: To describe objectively measured sleep characteristics in children aged 11–12 years and in parents and to examine intergenerational concordance of sleep characteristics. Population-based cross-sectional study (the Child Health CheckPoint), nested within the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children. Data were collected between February 2015 and March 2016 across assessment centres in Australian major cities and selected regional towns. Of the participating CheckPoint families (n=1874), sleep data were available for 1261 children (mean age 12 years, 50% girls), 1358 parents (mean age 43.8 years 88% mothers) and 1077 biological parent–child pairs. Survey weights were applied and statistical methods accounted for the complex s le design, stratification and clustering within postcodes. Parents and children were asked to wear a GENEActive wrist-worn accelerometer for 8 days to collect objective sleep data. Primary outcomes were average sleep duration, onset, offset, day-to-day variability and efficiency. All sleep characteristics were weighted 5:2 to account for weekdays versus weekends. Biological parent–child concordance was quantified using Pearson’s correlation coefficients in unadjusted models and regression coefficients in adjusted models. The mean sleep duration of parents and children was 501 min (SD 56) and 565 min (SD 44), respectively the mean sleep onset was 22:42 and 22:02, the mean sleep offset was 07:07 and 07:27, efficiency was 85.4% and 84.1%, and day-to-day variability was 9.9% and 7.4%, respectively. Parent–child correlation for sleep duration was 0.22 (95% CI 0.10 to 0.28), sleep onset was 0.42 (0.19 to 0.46), sleep offset was 0.58 (0.49 to 0.64), day-to-day variability was 0.25 (0.09 to 0.34) and sleep efficiency was 0.23 (0.10 to 0.27). These normative values for objective sleep characteristics suggest that, while most parents and children show adequate sleep duration, poor-quality (low efficiency) sleep is common. Parent–child concordance was strongest for sleep onset/offset, most likely reflecting shared environments, and modest for duration, variability and efficiency.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 10-12-2018
DOI: 10.2196/10911
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 21-10-2015
DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2014.951067
Abstract: Tudor-Locke and colleagues previously assessed steps/day for 1 year. The aim of this study was to use this data set to introduce a novel approach for the investigation of whether in idual's physical activity exhibits periodicity fluctuating round a mean and, if so, the degree of fluctuation and whether the mean changes over time. Twenty-three participants wore a pedometer for 365 days, recorded steps/day and whether the day was a workday. Fourier transform of each participant's daily steps data showed the physical activity had a periodicity of 7 days in half of the participants, matching the periodicity of the workday pattern. Activity level remained stable in half of the participants, decreased in ten participants and increased in two. In conclusion, the 7-day periodicity of activity in half of the participants and correspondence with the workday pattern suggest a social or environmental influence. The novel analytical approach introduced herein allows the determination of the periodicity of activity, the degree of variability in activity that is tolerated during day-to-day life and whether the activity level is stable. Results from the use of these methodologies in larger data sets may enable a more focused approach to the design of interventions that aim to increase activity.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 28-06-2018
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 10-07-2017
DOI: 10.1111/APA.13929
Abstract: Time use could profoundly affect adolescents' health-related quality of life (HRQL). Ideally, overall time use patterns would be considered, because activities within a 24-hour day are inherently correlated (more in one activity means less in another). This review focused on the associations of (i) overall time use patterns and (ii) components of time use patterns with HRQL in adolescents. More physical activity, less screen time and more/adequate sleep, in isolation, are associated with better profile-based HRQL subscales. Greater understanding of adolescents' overall time use patterns and HRQL is, therefore, a priority for policy development.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 15-06-2023
DOI: 10.1186/S12966-023-01471-9
Abstract: While there is evidence that physical activity, sedentary behaviour (SB) and sleep may all be associated with modified levels of inflammatory markers in adolescents and children, associations with one movement behaviour have not always been adjusted for other movement behaviours, and few studies have considered all movement behaviours in the 24-hour day as an exposure. The aim of the study was to explore how longitudinal reallocations of time between moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), light physical activity (LPA), SB and sleep are associated with changes in inflammatory markers in children and adolescents. A total of 296 children/adolescents participated in a prospective cohort study with a 3-year follow-up. MVPA, LPA and SB were assessed by accelerometers. Sleep duration was assessed using the Health Behavior in School-aged Children questionnaire. Longitudinal compositional regression models were used to explore how reallocations of time between movement behaviours are associated with changes in inflammatory markers. Reallocations of time from SB to sleep were associated with increases in C3 levels (difference for 60 min/d reallocation [ d 60 ] = 5.29 mg/dl 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.28, 10.29) and TNF-α ( d 60 = 1.81 mg/dl 95% CI = 0.79, 15.41) levels. Reallocations from LPA to sleep were also associated with increases in C3 levels ( d 60 = 8.10 mg/dl 95% CI = 0.79, 15.41). Reallocations from LPA to any of the remaining time-use components were associated with increases in C4 levels ( d 60 ranging from 2.54 to 3.63 mg/dl p 0.05), while any reallocation of time away from MVPA was associated with unfavourable changes in leptin ( d 60 ranging from 3088.44 to 3448.07 pg/ml p 0.05). Reallocations of time between 24-h movement behaviours are prospectively associated with some inflammatory markers. Reallocating time away from LPA appears to be most consistently unfavourably associated with inflammatory markers. Given that higher levels of inflammation during childhood and adolescence are associated with an increased risk of chronic diseases in adulthood, children and adolescents should be encouraged to maintain or increase the level of LPA to preserve a healthy immune system.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 16-07-2013
Publisher: Daedalus Enterprises
Date: 09-2012
Abstract: This study investigated whether descriptors of breathlessness differed after participation in an 8 week pulmonary rehabilitation program and whether changes in sensory quality would be reflected in responsiveness to pulmonary rehabilitation. People with COPD provided descriptors for their sensation of breathlessness before and after an 8 week pulmonary rehabilitation program. Primary outcomes for responsiveness to pulmonary rehabilitation were the 6 minute walk distance (6MWD) and the St George Respiratory questionnaire. Significant proportional shifts for sensory categories after rehabilitation were identified using the McNemar test. Random effects mixed modeling was used to determine significance of differences for primary outcomes between subjects modifying or not modifying descriptors of breathlessness. Of the 107 people referred to the pulmonary rehabilitation program, 94 met the spirometric criteria for COPD, with 58 having data for pre and post assessments (36 males, 71 ± 9 years old, percent of predicted FEV(1) 58 ± 24%). A significant proportion of subjects reduced descriptors of air hunger (P = .03, odds ratio 0.31, 95% CI 0.09-0.89) and depressed, regret, helpless (P = .04, odds ratio 0.36, 95% CI 0.10-1.05) following rehabilitation. Subjects reducing their use of descriptors of air hunger had greater improvements in the 6MWD after rehabilitation (P = .006, mean increase 46 m). The sensory quality of breathlessness was modified for approximately one third of subjects after pulmonary rehabilitation, with significant improvements in the 6MWD for subjects who reduced their use of descriptors of air hunger.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 11-2017
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 02-11-2017
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 03-05-2022
DOI: 10.1038/S41366-022-01130-2
Abstract: Modelling genetic pre-disposition may identify children at risk of obesity. However, most polygenic scores (PGSs) have been derived in adults, and lack validation during childhood. This study compared the utility of existing large-scale adult-derived PGSs to predict common anthropometric traits (body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and body fat) in children and adults, and examined whether childhood BMI prediction could be improved by combining PGSs and non-genetic factors (maternal and earlier child BMI). Participants (n = 1365 children, and n = 2094 adults made up of their parents) were drawn from the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children. Children were weighed and measured every two years from 0-1 to 12-13 years, and adults were measured or self-reported measurements were obtained concurrently (average analysed). Participants were genotyped from blood or oral s les, and PGSs were derived based on published genome-wide association studies. We used linear regression to compare the relative utility of these PGSs to predict their respective traits at different ages. BMI PGSs explained up to 12% of child BMI z-score variance in 10-13 year olds, compared with up to 15% in adults. PGSs for waist circumference and body fat explained less variance (up to 8%). An interaction between BMI PGSs and puberty (p = 0.001-0.002) suggests the effect of some variants may differ across the life course. In idual BMI measures across childhood predicted 10-60% of the variance in BMI at 12-13 years, and maternal BMI and BMI PGS each added 1-9% above this. Adult-derived PGSs for BMI, particularly those derived by modelling between-variant interactions, may be useful for predicting BMI during adolescence with similar accuracy to that obtained in adulthood. The level of precision presented here to predict BMI during childhood may be relevant to public health, but is likely to be less useful for in idual clinical purposes.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2013
Abstract: To describe New Zealand adolescent time use clusters and correlate cluster profiles. Data were from the cross-sectional 2008/2009 National Survey of Children and Young People's Physical Activity and Dietary Behaviours, which surveyed a random s le of 10-16 year-old New Zealanders (study subset n=679). Time use data were collected using the Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adults, and collapsed into 17 age-adjusted variables for sex-specific cluster analysis. Cluster associations with socio-demographic, anthropometric, physical activity and dietary variables were analysed. Three time use clusters were discovered for both boys and girls. For boys, the Techno-active cluster was characterised by high levels of team sports and TV the Quiet movers cluster by transport (active and passive) and quiet time and the Social studious cluster by reading, study activities and social interaction. The boys' clusters were associated with ethnicity. The girls'Social sporty cluster was characterised by sports and social interaction the Screenie tasker cluster by TV, computer, chores and work and the Super studious cluster by reading, study and school-based activities. The girls' time use cluster membership was associated with weight status and serves of extra foods. Distinct sex-specific time use clusters and correlate profiles exist among NZ adolescents. These findings may assist the development of targeted time use interventions to improve adolescent health and well-being.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 21-02-2019
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.JPEDS.2018.12.030
Abstract: To evaluate how the reallocation of time between sleep, sedentary time, light, and moderate-vigorous activities is associated with children's body composition. Population-based cross-sectional Child Health CheckPoint within the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children (n = 938 11-12 year-olds, 50% boys). Twenty-four hour activity composition via accelerometry (minutes/day of sleep, sedentary time, light, and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity [MVPA]) and 3-part body composition (percentage truncal fat, percentage nontruncal fat, and percentage fat-free mass) via bioelectrical impedance analysis were measured. We estimated differences in 3-part body composition associated with the incremental reallocation of time between activities, using dual-compositional regression models adjusted for sex, age, puberty, and socioeconomic position. Reallocation of time between MVPA and any other activity was strongly associated with differences in body composition. Adverse body composition differences were larger for a given MVPA decrease than were the beneficial differences for an equivalent MVPA increase. For ex le, 15 minutes less MVPA (relative to remaining activities) was associated with absolute percentage differences of +1.7% (95% CI 1.2 2.4) for truncal fat, +0.8% (0.6 1.2) for nontruncal fat, and -2.6% (-3.5 -1.9) for fat-free mass, and a 15-minute increase was associated with -0.7% (-0.9 -0.5) truncal fat, -0.4% (-0.5 -0.3) nontruncal fat, and +1.1% (0.9 1.5) fat-free mass. Reallocations between sleep, sedentary time, and light physical activity were not associated with differences in body composition. Preventing declines in MVPA during inactive periods (eg, holidays) may be an important intervention goal. More MVPA, instead of other activities, may benefit body composition.
Publisher: Emerald
Date: 17-07-2007
DOI: 10.1108/13612020710763083
Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to compare the three‐dimensional (3D) shapes of a s le of 18‐30 year old Australian women, to the 3D shapes assumed by the Standards Australia (SA) garment sizing system, using the newly developed L ‐statistic, to suggest methods of improving current garment sizing systems. The L‐statistic is a new method for quantifying the lack of fit between two sets of dimensions defining 3D shapes. Using the L ‐value, 28 measurements were calculated from 3D scans on 294 18‐30 year old Australian women and compared to the SA sizing system. Each participant was assigned to a best‐fit size, which was the size yielding the lowest L ‐value. The results showed that there is a significant mismatch between the real 3D shapes of young Australian women and the shapes assumed by the SA sizing system, and that there is a difference of more than two sizes when comparing reported dress sizes and best‐fit clothing sizes. Results suggest a need for revision of the current system, or development of a new system. Revision of current clothing sizes, or development of new sizes would be optimised by using 3D body scanning technology. This paper outlines the use of the L ‐statistic, a new method of comparing the shape of Australian women to the SA sizing system. The L ‐statistic can also be used to compare any in idual to any sizing system and to assess the lack‐of‐fit between any sizing system and a s le of scanned bodies.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.MATURITAS.2017.02.018
Abstract: This study aimed to investigate how daily use of time changes across the retirement transition and how these changes may differ according to socio-demographic characteristics. This longitudinal cohort study was based on interviews with 124 people at pre-retirement and at three, six and 12 months after retirement. The Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adults (MARCA), a computer-assisted telephone interview, measured use of time. Random effects mixed modelling (REMM) was used to examine time use changes across retirement, and ANCOVA to investigate the extent of the change by sex, education and health. Apart from the decrease in time spent in work across retirement (-122min/day, p<0.001), less time was also spent in both active and passive transport (-26min/day, p<0.001). There were significant increases in time spent on Chores (+55min/day, p<0.001), Screen time (+32min/day, p<0.001), Sleep (+32min/day, p<0.001), Quiet time (+17min/day, p=0.02), Self-care (+8min/day, p=0.01) and Physical activity (+7min/day, p=0.01). There was little variation in change between sex, education and health sub-groups. Most changes occurred at retirement, with time use patterns fairly stable between three and 12 months post-retirement. The small amount of time spent in physical activity, combined with less time spent in active transport and increased time spent watching television, indicate the need for a more active lifestyle.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2022
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.JPEDS.2016.12.048
Abstract: To evaluate the relationship between children's lifestyles and health-related quality of life and to explore whether this relationship varies among children from different world regions. This study used cross-sectional data from the International Study of Childhood Obesity, Lifestyle and the Environment. Children (9-11 years) were recruited from sites in 12 nations (n = 5759). Clustering input variables were 24-hour accelerometry and self-reported diet and screen time. Health-related quality of life was self-reported with KIDSCREEN-10. Cluster analyses (using compositional analysis techniques) were performed on a site-wise basis. Lifestyle behavior cluster characteristics were compared between sites. The relationship between cluster membership and health-related quality of life was assessed with the use of linear models. Lifestyle behavior clusters were similar across the 12 sites, with clusters commonly characterized by (1) high physical activity (actives) (2) high sedentary behavior (sitters) (3) high screen time/unhealthy eating pattern (junk-food screenies) and (4) low screen time/healthy eating pattern and moderate physical activity/sedentary behavior (all-rounders). Health-related quality of life was greatest in the all-rounders cluster. Children from different world regions clustered into groups of similar lifestyle behaviors. Cluster membership was related to differing health-related quality of life, with children from the all-rounders cluster consistently reporting greatest health-related quality of life at sites around the world. Findings support the importance of a healthy combination of lifestyle behaviors in childhood: low screen time, healthy eating pattern, and balanced daily activity behaviors (physical activity and sedentary behavior). ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01722500.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2021
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 26-03-2020
Abstract: In recent years, the focus of activity behavior research has shifted away from univariate paradigms (e.g., physical activity, sedentary behavior and sleep) to a 24-h time-use paradigm that integrates all daily activity behaviors. Behaviors are analyzed relative to each other, rather than as in idual entities. Compositional data analysis (CoDA) is increasingly used for the analysis of time-use data because it is intended for data that convey relative information. While CoDA has brought new understanding of how time use is associated with health, it has also raised challenges in how this methodology is applied, and how the findings are interpreted. In this paper we provide a brief overview of CoDA for time-use data, summarize current CoDA research in time-use epidemiology and discuss challenges and future directions. We use 24-h time-use diary data from Wave 6 of the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children (birth cohort, n = 3228, aged 10.9 ± 0.3 years) to demonstrate descriptive analyses of time-use compositions and how to explore the relationship between daily time use (sleep, sedentary behavior and physical activity) and a health outcome (in this ex le, adiposity). We illustrate how to comprehensively interpret the CoDA findings in a meaningful way.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2021
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 30-01-2021
Abstract: Sleep plays an important role in cardiometabolic health. Although the importance of considering sleep as a multidimensional construct is widely appreciated, studies have largely focused on in idual sleep characteristics. The association between actigraphy-derived sleep profiles and cardiometabolic health in healthy adults and children has not been examined. This study used actigraphy-measured sleep data collected between February 2015 and March 2016 in the Child Health CheckPoint study. Participants wore actigraphy monitors (GENEActiv Original, Cambs, UK) on their nondominant wrist for 7 days and sleep characteristics (period, efficiency, timing, and variability) were derived from raw actigraphy data. Actigraphy-derived sleep profiles of 1,043 Australian children aged 11–12 years and 1,337 adults were determined using K-means cluster analysis. The association between cluster membership and biomarkers of cardiometabolic health (blood pressure, body mass index, apolipoproteins, glycoprotein acetyls, composite metabolic syndrome severity score) were assessed using Generalized Estimating Equations, adjusting for geographic clustering, with sex, socioeconomic status, maturity stage (age for adults, pubertal status for children), and season of data collection as covariates. Four actigraphy-derived sleep profiles were identified in both children and adults: short sleepers, late to bed, long sleepers, and overall good sleepers. The overall good sleeper pattern (characterized by adequate sleep period time, high efficiency, early bedtime, and low day-to-day variability) was associated with better cardiometabolic health in the majority of comparisons (80%). Actigraphy-derived sleep profiles are associated with cardiometabolic health in adults and children. The overall good sleeper pattern is associated with more favorable cardiometabolic health.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.JSAMS.2016.02.010
Abstract: To examine the relationships between children's moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), sedentary behaviours, and academic performance. This study investigated cross-sectional relationships between children's accelerometer-measured physical activity and sedentary behaviour patterns, and academic performance using a standardised, nationally-administered academic assessment. A total of 285 Australian children aged 9-11 years from randomly selected schools undertook 7-day 24h accelerometry to objectively determine their MVPA and sedentary behaviour. In the same year, they completed nationally-administered standardised academic testing (National Assessment Program-Literacy and Numeracy NAPLAN). BMI was measured, and socio-demographic variables were collected in a parent-reported survey. Relationships between MVPA, sedentary behaviour and academic performance across five domains were examined using Generalised Linear Mixed Models, adjusted for a wide variety of socio-demographic variables. Higher academic performance was strongly and consistently related to higher sedentary time, with significant relationships seen across all five academic domains (range F=4.13, p=0.04 through to F=18.65, p=<0.01). In contrast, higher academic performance was only related to higher MVPA in two academic domains (writing F=5.28, p=0.02, and numeracy F=6.28, p=0.01) and was not related to language, reading and spelling performance. Findings highlight that sedentary behaviour can have positive relationships with non-physical outcomes. Positive relationships between MVPA and literacy and numeracy, as well as the well documented benefits for MVPA on physical and social health, suggest that it holds an important place in children's lives, both in and outside of school.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.BONE.2018.04.011
Abstract: To examine cross-sectional associations of children's bone health (size, density, strength) with moderate-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and sedentary behaviour by considering: (1) duration of activity, (2) fragmentation, and (3) duration/fragmentation combined. Design: Population-based cross-sectional study. 11-12 year-olds in the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children's Child Health CheckPoint. Exposures: MVPA and sedentary behaviour (7-day accelerometry), yielding (1) daily average durations (min/day) and (2) fragmentations (the parameter alpha, representing the relationship between activity bout frequency and bout length). Tibial peripheral quantitative computed tomography (bone density, geometry, strength). Multivariable regression models including activity durations and fragmentations separately and combined. Of 1357 children attending the CheckPoint, 864 (64%) provided both bone and accelerometry data (mean age 11.4 years (standard deviation (SD) 0.5) 49% male). Mean daily MVPA and sedentary behaviour durations were 34.4 min/day (SD 28.3) and 667.9 min/day (SD 71.9) respectively for boys and girls combined. Each additional daily hour of MVPA was associated with small bone health benefits comprising greater periosteal and endosteal circumference (standardised effect sizes 0.25, 95% CI 0.10 to 0.40 and 0.21, 95% CI 0.03 to 0.39, respectively) and bone strength (0.26, 95% CI 0.14 to 0.38). Sedentary duration and fragmentation of either MVPA or sedentary behaviour showed little association with bone health. In early adolescence, MVPA duration showed associations with better bone health that, while modest, could be of population-level importance. MVPA fragmentation and sedentary behaviour duration and fragmentation seemed less important.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 03-03-2009
DOI: 10.1038/IJO.2009.42
Abstract: This review addresses the effect of overweight and obese weight status on pediatric health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Web of Science, Medline, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, AMED and PubMed were searched for peer-reviewed studies in English reporting HRQOL and weight status in youth (<21 years), published before March 2008. Twenty-eight articles were identified. Regression of HRQOL against body mass index (BMI) using pooled data from 13 studies utilizing the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory identified an inverse relationship between BMI and pediatric HRQOL (r=-0.7, P=0.008), with impairments in physical and social functioning consistently reported. HRQOL seemed to improve with weight loss, but randomized controlled trials were few and lacked long-term follow-up. Little is known about the factors associated with reduced HRQOL among overweight or obese youth, although gender, age and obesity-related co-morbidities may play a role. Few studies have examined the differences in HRQOL between community and treatment-seeking s les. Pooled regressions suggest pediatric self-reported HRQOL can be predicted from parent proxy reports, although parents of obese youths tend to perceive worse HRQOL than children do about themselves. Thus, future research should include both pediatric and parent proxy perspectives.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2022
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 11-2016
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2008
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 24-02-2017
Abstract: Physical activity, sedentary and sleep behaviours have strong associations with health. This systematic review aimed to identify how clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) for the management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) report specific recommendations and strategies for these movement behaviours. A systematic search of databases (Medline, Scopus, CiNAHL, EMbase, Clinical Guideline), reference lists and websites identified current versions of CPGs published since 2005. Specific recommendations and strategies concerning physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep were extracted verbatim. The proportions of CPGs providing specific recommendations and strategies were reported. From 2370 citations identified, 35 CPGs were eligible for inclusion. Of these, 21 (60%) provided specific recommendations for physical activity, while none provided specific recommendations for sedentary behaviour or sleep. The most commonly suggested strategies to improve movement behaviours were encouragement from a healthcare provider (physical activity n = 20 sedentary behaviour n = 2) and referral for a diagnostic sleep study (sleep n = 4). Since optimal physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep durations and patterns are likely to be associated with mitigating the effects of COPD, as well as with general health and well-being, there is a need for further COPD-specific research, consensus and incorporation of recommendations and strategies into CPGs.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.JPAINSYMMAN.2017.02.015
Abstract: Feasibility and pilot study designs are common in palliative care research. Finding standard guidelines on the structure and reporting of these study types is difficult. In feasibility and pilot studies in palliative care research, to determine 1) how commonly a priori feasibility are criteria reported and whether results are subsequently reported against these criteria? and 2) how commonly are participants' views on acceptability of burden of the study protocol assessed? Four databases (OVID Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, and PubMed via caresearch.com.au.) were searched. Search terms included palliative care, terminal care, advance care planning, hospice, pilot, feasibility, with a publication date between January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2013. Articles were selected and appraised by two independent reviewers. Fifty-six feasibility and/or pilot studies were included in this review. Only three studies had clear a priori criteria to measure success. Sixteen studies reported participant acceptability or burden with measures. Forty-eight studies concluded feasibility. The terms "feasibility" and "pilot" are used synonymously in palliative care research when describing studies that test for feasibility. Few studies in palliative care research outline clear criteria for success. The assessment of participant acceptability and burden is uncommon. A gold standard for feasibility study design in palliative care research that includes both clear criteria for success and testing of the study protocol for participant acceptability and burden is needed. Such a standard would assist with consistency in the design, conduct and reporting of feasibility and pilot studies.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2001
DOI: 10.1080/026404101750158312
Abstract: Data on 1420 high-standard rugby union players measured between 1905 and 1999 were collated to chart the evolution of body size and shape in rugby union football. In idual data were available for 843 players. Where only summary statistics were presented, Monte Carlo simulation was used to generate pseudo-data. Anthropometric variables included height, body mass, body mass index (BMI) and somatotype where available. The rates of increase in body mass (2.6 kg per decade) and BMI (0.4 kg x m(-2) per decade) were well above those of the general population of young males. The increase in height (1.0 cm per decade) was comparable to the secular increase. The increases in body mass and BMI since 1975 have been three to four times those between 1905 and 1975. Since 1975, players have been less endomorphic (-0.3 units per decade) and less ectomorphic (-0.4 units per decade), but much more mesomorphic (+1.1 units per decade) than before. There is a close association between body size and success. Final ranking in the 1999 World Cup showed significant correlations with the average mass of the squads.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2010
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 14-07-2015
DOI: 10.1002/OBY.21152
Abstract: The aim was to assess associations between lifestyle behaviors and obesity in a multinational study of children from 12 countries representing a wide range of human development. The s le included 6,025 children 9-11 years of age. Behavioral risk factors included nocturnal sleep duration, moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA), television viewing (TV time), and healthy and unhealthy diet pattern scores. Multilevel analyses were used to obtain odds ratios for obesity expressed per standard deviation of each behavioral risk factor. The odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) for obesity from multilevel, multivariable models were 0.79 (0.71-0.90) for nocturnal sleep duration, 0.52 (0.45-0.60) for MVPA, 1.15 (1.05-1.27) for TV time, 1.08 (0.96-1.20) for healthy diet score, and 0.93 (0.83-1.04) for unhealthy diet score in boys and 0.71 (0.63-0.80) for nocturnal sleep duration, 0.43 (0.35-0.53) for MVPA, 1.07 (0.96-1.19) for TV time, 1.05 (0.93-1.19) for healthy diet score, and 0.96 (0.82-1.11) for unhealthy diet score in girls. Behavioral risk factors are important correlates of obesity in children, particularly low MVPA, short sleep duration, and high TV viewing.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 15-04-2019
DOI: 10.3390/NU11040848
Abstract: The purpose of this review is to summarize the scientific contributions of the International Study of Childhood Obesity, Lifestyle and the Environment (ISCOLE) in extending our understanding about obesity in children from around the world. ISCOLE was a multi-national study of 9 to 11 year-old children from sites in 12 countries from all inhabited continents. The primary purpose was to investigate relationships between lifestyle behaviors and obesity, and the influence of higher-order characteristics such as behavioral settings, and physical, social and policy environments. ISCOLE has made several advances in scientific methodology related to the assessment of physical activity, dietary behavior, sleep and the neighborhood and school environments. Furthermore, ISCOLE has provided important evidence on (1) epidemiological transitions in obesity and related behaviors, (2) correlates of obesity and lifestyle behaviors at the in idual, neighborhood and school levels, and (3) 24-h movement behaviors in relation to novel analytical techniques. A key feature of ISCOLE was the development of a platform for international training, data entry, and data quality for multi-country studies. Finally, ISCOLE represents a transparent model for future public-private research partnerships across low, middle and high-income countries.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 11-09-2015
DOI: 10.1007/S00737-014-0461-4
Abstract: Test-retest reliability of the English version of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) has not been established. This study aimed to address this gap in psychometrics by examining test-retest reliability in a s le of 118 Australian mothers with babies aged under 12 months, with a mean of 2.82 (SD 1.38) days between test occasions. The EPDS was found to have a high level of test-retest reliability for total scores (ICC = 0.92) and PND risk categories (90.7 % agreement).
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.JSAMS.2016.09.014
Abstract: To describe secular trends in the prevalence of overweight and obesity in Australian children in each state and territory. Systematic search and numerical meta-analysis. A systematic search was conducted to identify all sources that objectively measured the height and weight of Australian children (aged 2-18 years) and had a s le size of at least 300. Raw and summary data were requested from authors and ided into age×sex×state×yearly slices to derive estimates of the prevalence of overweight and obesity. Following a double arcsine transformation to facilitate meta-analysis, all estimates were standardised for age, stratified by sex and analysed using s le-weighted non-linear regressions. The systematic search identified 73 eligible sources (47 raw and 26 summary datasets), with 72.8% of data sourced from Victoria and South Australia. Prevalence trends varied from state to state, with three states or territories showing a marked plateau, two showing a decline in the more recent years and three showing continued linear increases. Tasmania and Northern Territory generally had the highest prevalence (30.2% and 24.3% overweight and obesity respectively), and the Australian Capital Territory had the lowest (12.4% overweight and obesity). Prevalence, as well as prevalence trends, varied amongst Australian states and territories. At a national level, the prevalence trend has nearly plateaued for the past 15 years. However, upward prevalence trends appear to be persisting in Western Australia, South Australia and Tasmania. Findings highlight the need for ongoing efforts to address the issue of childhood obesity.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 08-10-2012
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.JSAMS.2019.03.006
Abstract: Estimates of adults' moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) based on self-report are generally higher than estimates derived from criterion measures. This study examines a possible explanation for part of this discrepancy: the cutpoint bias hypothesis. This hypothesis proposes that inter- and intra-in idual variability in energy expenditure, combined with the fact that adults perform a high proportion of daily activities at or just above the traditional 3 MET cutpoint, result in systematic over-estimates of MVPA. Cross-sectional. Time-use recalls (n = 6862) were collected using the Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adults from 2210 adults (1215 female, age 16-93 years) from 16 studies conducted in Australia and New Zealand between 2008-2017. Minutes spent in MVPA were estimated using models with varying levels of intra- and inter-in idual (total variability) Unadjusted (0% total variability), Low (11.9%), Best Guess (20.7%), and High (30.0%). In the Unadjusted model, participants accumulated an average of 129 (standard deviation 127) min/day of MVPA. Estimated MVPA was 98 (110), 99 (107) and 108 (107) min/day in the Low, Best Guess and High variability models, respectively, with intra-class correlation coefficients with the Unadjusted model ranging from 0.78 to 0.83. These findings support the hypothesis of a cutpoint bias, which probably contributes to the large disparities seen between self-reported and criterion measures of MVPA. Future studies are needed to confirm these findings using other self-report instruments and in other populations.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 19-09-2004
DOI: 10.1002/AJPA.10351
Abstract: Human physique classification by somatotype assumes that adult humans are geometric similar to each other. However, this assumption has yet to be adequately tested in athletic and nonexercising human populations. In this study, we assessed this assumption by comparing the mass exponents associated with girth measurements taken at 13 different sites throughout the body in 478 subjects (279 athletic subjects, and 199 nonexercising controls). Corrected girths which account for subcutaneous adipose tissue at the upper arm, thigh, and calf sites, and which simulate muscle circumference, were also calculated. If subjects are geometrically similar to each other, girth exponents should be approximately proportional to M(1/3), where M is the subjects' body mass. This study confirms that human adult physiques are not geometrically similar to each other. In both athletic subjects and nonexercising controls, body circumferences/limb girths develop at a greater rate than that anticipated by geometric similarity in fleshy sites containing both muscle and fat (upper arms and legs), and less than anticipated in bony sites (head, wrists, and ankles). Interestingly, head girths appear to remain almost constant, irrespective of subjects' body size/mass. The results also suggest that thigh muscle girths of athletes and controls increase at a greater rate than that predicted by geometric similarity, proportional to body mass (M(0.439) and M(0.377), respectively). These systematic deviations from geometric similarity have serious implications for the allometric scaling of variables such as energy expenditure, oxygen uptake, anaerobic power, and thermodynamic or anthropometric studies involving in iduals of differing size.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 1995
DOI: 10.1007/BF00361538
Publisher: Queensland University of Technology
Date: 24-06-2014
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 2015
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 02-11-2022
DOI: 10.1177/26350106221137896
Abstract: The purpose of the study was to determine the association between objective and self-report measures of sleep and cardiometabolic risk factors for type 2 diabetes. This study examines data on Australian adults, collected as part of the Child Health CheckPoint study. Sleep was examined in terms of actigraphy-derived sleep duration, timing, efficiency and variability and self-report trouble sleeping. Cardiometabolic risk factors for type 2 diabetes were examined in terms of body mass index and biomarkers of inflammation and dyslipidemia. Generalized estimating equations, adjusted for geographic clustering, were used to determine the association between measures of sleep and cardiometabolic risk factors. Complete case analysis was conducted for 1017 parents (87% mothers). Both objective and self-report measures of sleep were significantly but weakly associated with cardiometabolic risk factors. Both objective and self-report measures of sleep are significantly associated with cardiometabolic risk factors for type 2 diabetes. Self-report troubled sleep is associated with poorer cardiometabolic health, independent of actigraphy-derived sleep parameters.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2013
DOI: 10.3109/03014460.2012.739643
Abstract: Relationships between sitting height (SH) and leg length (LL) in adults are almost always studied in terms of ratios such as the Cormic Index (CI), SH/stature, rather than as primary variables. They are affected by genetics and childhood nutrition. To characterize these relationships and test whether the CI is ideal as an index of relative LL. Regression and reduced major axis (RMA) equations were calculated for 1653 men and women of European descent. For other population groups the RMA parameters were calculated from published means and standard deviations of SH and LL. Linear and 'allometric' (power) equations fit the data equally well. For people of European origin the RMA equations for men and women do not differ significantly. Corresponding equations for other populations differ in line with published CIs. The linear equations suggest that LL tends to vary in proportion to SH minus a quantity similar to head height. A new index of relative LL may therefore be preferable to the CI for some research purposes to reflect this, but there is otherwise no strong reason to abandon the use of the CI.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 17-10-2018
Abstract: o date, many online health behavior programs developed by researchers have not been translated at scale. To inform translational efforts, health researchers must work with marketing experts to design cost-effective marketing c aigns. It is important to understand the characteristics of end users of a given health promotion program and identify key market segments. his study aimed to describe the characteristics of the adopters of Active Team, a gamified online social networking physical activity app, and identify potential market segments to inform future research translation efforts. articipants (N=545) were Australian adults aged 18 to 65 years who responded to general advertisements to join a randomized controlled trial (RCT) evaluating the Active Team app. At baseline they provided demographic (age, sex, education, marital status, body mass index, location of residence, and country of birth), behavioral (sleep, assessed by the Pittsburgh Quality Sleep Index) and physical activity (assessed by the Active Australia Survey), psychographic information (health and well-being, assessed by the PERMA [Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, Achievement] Profile depression, anxiety and stress, assessed by the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale [DASS-21] and quality of life, assessed by the 12-Item Short Form Health Survey [SF-12]). Descriptive analyses and a k-medoids cluster analysis were performed using the software R 3.3.0 (The R Foundation) to identify key characteristics of the s le. luster analyses revealed four clusters: (1) younger inactive women with poor well-being (218/545), characterized by a higher score on the DASS-21, low mental component summary score on the SF-12, and relatively young age (2) older, active women (153/545), characterized by a lower score on DASS-21, a higher overall score on the SF-12, and relatively older age (3) young, active but stressed men (58/545) with a higher score on DASS-21 and higher activity levels and (4) older, low active and obese men (30/545), characterized by a high body mass index and lower activity levels. nderstanding the characteristics of population segments attracted to a health promotion program will guide the development of cost-effective research translation c aigns. ustralian New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry ACTRN12617000113358 www.anzctr.org .au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=371463 R2-10.1186/s12889-017-4882-7
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2018
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.SMRV.2019.04.011
Abstract: Sleep is essential for children's health and well-being. Characteristics of children's sleep such as sleep duration, timing, quality and variability are increasingly being associated with a wide range of health outcomes. The purpose of this study is to conduct a meta-review (systematic review of systematic reviews) to examine the relationship between sleep and health in children. A systematic search of four electronic databases (Medline, PsychInfo, Scopus, and Embase) was conducted to identify systematic reviews that examine the association between characteristics of children's sleep and health. Key findings, as well as areas in need of further research were synthesised descriptively. A total of 39 systematic reviews were identified for inclusion, covering areas of cognition, psychosocial health, cardiometabolic health, adiposity and other outcomes such as musculoskeletal pain. There is substantial and consistent evidence relating sleep duration to adiposity and emotional outcomes. The relationships between sleep quality and timing and blood lipids and glycaemic control merit further research. Links between sleep and metabolic syndrome in children appear to be weak and inconsistent. Key areas identified in need for further research included studies that objectively assess children's sleep and move beyond cross-sectional study designs and consider characteristics of sleep other than duration. It was also noted that covariates applied across studies varied considerably and the issue of residual confounding was raised in a number of reviews. Lastly, all reviews reported studies adopted a traditional approach of examining only one aspect of children's sleep. Systematic reviews support the notion that sleep is important for children's health. However, further studies that objectively assess sleep and consider characteristics of sleep other than duration and outcomes other than adiposity are needed. An understanding of sleep as a multidimensional construct and as a component of the 24-h d, is also needed to better understand the relationship between sleep and health in children.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 20-11-2019
Abstract: How people use their time has been linked with their health. For ex le, spending more time being physically active is known to be beneficial for health, whereas long durations of sitting have been associated with unfavourable health outcomes. Accordingly, public health messages have advocated swapping strategies to promote the reallocation of time between parts of the time-use composition, such as “Move More, Sit Less”, with the aim of achieving optimal distribution of time for health. However, the majority of research underpinning these public health messages has not considered daily time use as a composition, and has ignored the relative nature of time-use data. We present a way of applying compositional data analysis to estimate change in a health outcome when fixed durations of time are reallocated from one part of a particular time-use composition to another, while the remaining parts are kept constant, based on a multiple linear regression model on isometric log ratio coordinates. In an ex le, we examine the expected differences in Body Mass Index z-scores for reallocations of time between sleep, physical activity and sedentary behaviour.
Publisher: American Institute of Mathematical Sciences (AIMS)
Date: 2016
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2007
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 03-2021
Abstract: Background : Emerging evidence suggests that Indigenous children have higher physical activity levels that non-Indigenous children, yet little is known of the factors that influence these levels or how they may be optimized. This study examines correlates of achieving ≥1 hour/day of physical activity among Indigenous Australian children aged 8–13 years. Methods : Data were collected through parental self-report in the Longitudinal Study of Indigenous Children. Proportions of children achieving ≥1 hour/day physical activity, approximating the Australian aerobic physical activity recommendations, were calculated, and associations with sociodemographic, family composition, and movement-related factors were quantified using multiple logistic regression analyses. Results : Half of the 1233 children achieved ≥1 hour/day physical activity. Children from families with low parental education and unemployment, remote residence, low socioeconomic status, and without a father in the household were more likely to meet the recommendations. Achieving ≥1 hour/day of physical activity was also associated with low levels of playing electronic games and total screen time. Conclusions : Sociodemographic correlates of physical activity among Indigenous Australian children run counter to those typically found in non-Indigenous Australian children. Further longitudinal examination of the predictors of these associations would provide a greater understanding of Indigenous physical activity determinants, to inform strategies to facilitate participation.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 24-06-2019
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 05-2013
DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2012.759660
Abstract: Somatotyping is the quantification of human body shape, independent of body size. Hitherto, somatotyping (including the most popular method, the Heath-Carter system) has been based on subjective visual ratings, sometimes supported by surface anthropometry. This study used data derived from three-dimensional (3D) whole-body scans as inputs for cluster analysis to objectively derive clusters of similar body shapes. Twenty-nine dimensions normalised for body size were measured on a purposive s le of 301 adults aged 17-56 years who had been scanned using a Vitus Smart laser scanner. K-means Cluster Analysis with v-fold cross-validation was used to determine shape clusters. Three male and three female clusters emerged, and were visualised using those scans closest to the cluster centroid and a caricature defined by doubling the difference between the average scan and the cluster centroid. The male clusters were decidedly endomorphic (high fatness), ectomorphic (high linearity), and endo-mesomorphic (a mixture of fatness and muscularity). The female clusters were clearly endomorphic, ectomorphic, and the ecto-mesomorphic (a mixture of linearity and muscularity). An objective shape quantification procedure combining 3D scanning and cluster analysis yielded shape clusters strikingly similar to traditional somatotyping.
Publisher: PeerJ
Date: 27-04-0027
DOI: 10.7717/PEERJ.4604
Abstract: Little is known about how to achieve enduring improvements in physical activity (PA), sedentary behaviour (SB) and sleep for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This study aimed to: (1) identify what people with COPD from South Australia and the Netherlands, and experts from COPD- and non-COPD-specific backgrounds considered important to improve behaviours and (2) identify areas of dissonance between these different participant groups. A four-round Delphi study was conducted, analysed separately for each group. Free-text responses (Round 1) were collated into items within themes and rated for importance on a 9-point Likert scale (Rounds 2–3). Items meeting a priori criteria from each group were retained for rating by all groups in Round 4. Items and themes achieving a median Likert score of ≥7 and an interquartile range of ≤2 across all groups at Round 4 were judged important. Analysis of variance with Tukey’s post-hoc tested for statistical differences between groups for importance ratings. Seventy-three participants consented to participate in this study, of which 62 (85%) completed Round 4. In Round 4, 81 items (PA n = 54 SB n = 24 sleep n = 3) and 18 themes (PA n = 9 SB n = 7 sleep n = 2) were considered important across all groups concerning: (1) symptom/disease management, (2) targeting behavioural factors, and (3) less commonly, adapting the social hysical environments. There were few areas of dissonance between groups. Our Delphi participants considered a multifactorial approach to be important to improve PA, SB and sleep. Recognising and addressing factors considered important to recipients and providers of health care may provide a basis for developing behaviour-specific interventions leading to long-term behaviour change in people with COPD.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.ACAP.2009.04.003
Abstract: To describe time adolescents spend using electronic media (television, computer, video games, and telephone) and to examine associations between self-reported health/well-being and daily time spent using electronic media overall and each type of electronic media. Design-Cross-sectional data from the third (2005) wave of the Health of Young Victorians Study, an Australian school-based population study. Outcome Measures-Global health, health-related quality of life (HRQoL KIDSCREEN), health status (Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0 PedsQL), depression/anxiety (Kessler-10), and behavior problems (Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire). Exposure Measures-Duration of electronic media use averaged over 1 to 4 days recalled with the Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adolescents (MARCA) computerized time-use diary. Analysis-Linear and logistic regression adjusted for demographic variables and body mass index z score. A total of 925 adolescents (mean +/- standard deviation age, 16.1+/-1.2 years) spent, on average, 3 hours 16 minutes per day using electronic media (television, 128 minutes per day video games, 35 computers, 19 telephone, 13). High overall electronic media use was associated with poorer behavior, health status, and HRQoL. Associations with duration of specific media exposures were mixed there was a favorable association between computer use (typing/Internet) and psychological distress, whereas high video game use was associated with poorer health status, HRQoL, global health, and depression/anxiety. Television and telephone durations were not associated with any outcome measure. Despite television's associations with obesity, time spent in other forms of media use appear more strongly related to adolescent health and well-being. This study supports efforts to reduce high video game use and further exploration of the role of computers in health enhancement.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 24-08-2016
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 03-05-2012
Abstract: A systematic review of qualitative studies was undertaken to understand the barriers to physical activity experienced by adolescents who were overweight or obese. From a search of electronic databases and ‘grey’ literature, published between 1950 and 2009, 15 studies met the inclusion criteria. Bronfenbrenner’s model of human development provided an ecological lens for identifying and synthesising barriers to physical activity. Two reviewers appraised study quality. Miles and Huberman’s cross-case analysis was integrated with thematic networking to synthesize the in idual, interpersonal and environmental level barriers for boys and girls of different ethnicities and socioeconomic status, across school settings and generalised context. Thirty-five barriers were identified, 13 of which occurred in physical activity situations in the school setting, 18 were not linked to a specific setting, and the remainder were common across both contexts. The fact that these barriers emerged from studies that focused on topics such as victimisation and mental health is particularly poignant and reflects the potentially pervasive influence of adolescent’s excessive weight not only in relation to physical activity situations but other aspects of their lives. Furthermore, socioeconomic status and ethnicity was poorly considered, with only one study linking these participant characteristics to quotations and discussing the potential implications. At present, there are few qualitative studies with sufficiently thick description or interpretive validity that provide insight into this vulnerable group of adolescents, and give them a voice to influence policy and practice.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2019
DOI: 10.1186/S12966-019-0847-9
Abstract: Despite the ongoing promotion of physical activity, the rates of physical inactivity remain high. Drawing on established methods of analysing consumer behaviour, this study seeks to understand how physical activity competes for finite time in a day – how Exercise and Sport compete with other everyday behaviours, and how engagement in physical activity is shared across Exercise and Sport activities. As targeted efforts are common in physical activity intervention and promotion, the existence of segmentation is also explored. Time-use recall data ( n = 2307 adults) is analysed using the Duplication of Behaviour Law, and tested against expected values, to document what proportion of the population that engage in one activity, also engage in another competing activity. Additionally, a Mean Absolute Deviation approach is used to test for segmentation. The Duplication of Behaviour Law is evident for everyday activities, and Exercise and Sport activities – all activities ‘compete’ with each other, and the prevalence of the competing activity determines the extent of competition. However, some activities compete more or less than expected, suggesting the combinations of activities that should be used or avoided in promotion efforts. Competition between everyday activities is predictable, and there are no specific activities that are sacrificed to engage in Exercise and Sport. How people share their physical activity across different Exercise and Sport activities is less predictable – Males and younger people (under 20 years) are more likely to engage in Exercise and Sport, and those who engage in Exercise and Sport are slightly more likely to Work and Study. High competition between Team Sports and Non-Team Sports suggests strong preferences for sports of different varieties. Finally, gender and age-based segmentation does not exist for Exercise and Sport relative to other everyday activities however, segmentation does exist for Team Sports, Games, Active Play and Dance. The Duplication of Behaviour Law demonstrates that population-level patterns of behaviour can yield insight into the competition between different activities, and how engagement in physical activity is shared across different Exercise and Sport activities. Such insights can be used to describe and predict physical activity behaviour and may be used to inform and evaluate promotion and intervention.
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 02-2019
Abstract: Facebook has over 1.8 billion users and offers unique opportunities for health intervention delivery due to its popularity, flexibility, high engagement, and social connectedness. This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of the Mums Step It Up (MSIU) Facebook app, a team-based, 50-day physical activity intervention for postpartum women. A total of 120 postpartum women were recruited and randomly allocated to 1 of 3 conditions: MSIU (n = 41), pedometer only (n = 39), and control (n = 40). Assessments were completed at baseline, 6 weeks, and 6 months. Primary outcomes were accelerometer moderate to vigorous physical activity and self-reported walking. Analyses were undertaken on an intention to treat basis using random effects mixed modeling (P ≤ .05). Compliance and engagement with the MSIU app were analyzed, descriptively. There were no significant differences in changes in moderate to vigorous physical activity (P = .81, 6 wk P = .91, 6 mo) or self-reported walking (P = .55, 6 wk P = .90, 6 mo) across the 3 conditions. High engagement with the MSIU app was evident, with participants on average visiting the app 26 times and logging steps for 48/50 days. Although engagement with the MSIU app was promising, the nonsignificant results suggest that further work needs to be done to enhance efficacy for postpartum women.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 30-09-2013
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 11-02-2014
Publisher: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
Date: 02-2013
Abstract: Presleep activities have been implicated in the declining sleep duration of young people. A use-of-time approach may be used to describe the presleep period. The study aims were to describe the activities undertaken 90 minutes before sleep onset and to examine the association between activities and time of sleep onset in New Zealand young people. Participants (N = 2017 5–18 years) self-reported their time use as part of a national survey. All activities reported in the 90 minutes before sleep were extracted. The top 20 activities were grouped into 3 behavioral sets: screen sedentary time, nonscreen sedentary time, and self-care. An adjusted regression model was used to estimate presleep time spent in each behavioral set for 4 distinct categories of sleep onset (very early, early, late, or very late), and the differences between sleep onset categories were tested. In the entire s le, television watching was the most commonly reported activity, and screen sedentary time accounted for ∼30 minutes of the 90-minute presleep period. Participants with a later sleep onset had significantly greater engagement in screen time than those with an earlier sleep onset. Conversely, those with an earlier sleep onset spent significantly greater time in nonscreen sedentary activities and self-care. Screen sedentary time dominated the presleep period in this s le and was associated with a later sleep onset. The development of interventions to reduce screen-based behaviors in the presleep period may promote earlier sleep onset and ultimately improved sleep duration in young people.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 18-08-2021
DOI: 10.1038/S41366-021-00916-0
Abstract: Body mass index (BMI, body mass/height Height, weight, and percent body fat (%BF) were measured at ages 8, 10, and 12 years (1855 sets of measures). Age-specific relationships between BMI and height were derived, adjusting for %BF, to estimate the degree of height bias inherent in BMI. Then, from cross-sectional measurements recorded in 1985 (N = 2388) and 1995 (N = 2148) in 8, 10, and 12 year olds, changes in overweight/obesity prevalences were calculated before and after accounting for the BMI-height bias. Estimates of the effect of height on BMI following adjustment for %BF were similar across age groups and all were significant at p < 0.001. Referring to 12 year olds, at the same %BF for a 1% increase in height there was 0.77% (95% CI 0.55, 0.99) increase in BMI in boys, and 0.74% (0.28, 1.02) increase in girls. Between 1985 and 1995, mean height of 12-year-old boys and girls increased 3.9 and 3.2 cm, respectively. In 1985 unadjusted prevalences of combined overweight/obesity in boys and girls were 13.5% and 13.0%, respectively, and in 1995 were 24% and 24.5%. The latter values were reduced to 21.6% and 22.6% after adjusting for increased height. Previously reported increases in childhood overweight/obesity in Australia between 1985 and 1995 were likely to be moderately overestimated as a result of increased population height suggesting that population height be taken into account in any pediatric investigation of changes in overweight/obesity prevalence over time.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 25-11-2020
Abstract: This study used a bibliometric analysis through the Scopus database to examine papers that combined physical activity and sleep, published between 1979 and 2018. Bibliometric indicators of productivity included publication volume and citation distribution, top 10 authors, average authors per paper, single- and multicountry collaboration, collaborative index, top 10 countries, leading journals, highly cited papers and network visualization for coauthorship, international collaboration, and co-occurrence of author keywords. The initial search identified 1,509 papers, of which 607 passed through comprehensive screening and were included in the final analysis. Most of the papers were research articles (90.8%) and published in English (90.8%). Most papers (81.4%) were published within the past decade, 2009–2018. The mean number of papers published per year was 15.2, the mean number of citations per paper was 257.3, and the mean number of authors per paper was 5.5. International collaboration was evident for 21.6% of the papers, and 95.6% of papers were multiauthored. The most prolific publishing institutions and authors were from the United States, Canada, Australia, Switzerland, and Brazil. Keyword analysis suggested that almost all age groups and study designs were covered, but most papers focus on noncommunicable diseases. Although there has been a rise in scientific production on combined physical activity and sleep research in recent years, future work in this area should include researchers from developing countries.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 07-2019
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2018-023194
Abstract: To describe the epidemiology and parent–child concordance of objectively measured physical activity in a population-based s le of Australian parent–child dyads. Cross-sectional study (Child Health CheckPoint) nested within the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children. Assessment centres in seven Australian cities and eight regional towns or home visits February 2015–March 2016. Of all CheckPoint families (n=1874), 1261 children (50% girls) and 1358 parent (88% mothers) provided objectively measured activity data, comprising 1077 parent–child dyads. Activity behaviour was assessed by GENEActiv accelerometer. Duration of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and vigorous physical activity and sedentary behaviour (SB) were derived using Cobra custom software, along with MVPA/SB fragmentation and mean daily activity. Pearson’s correlation coefficients and linear regression estimated parent–child concordance. Survey weights and methods accounted for the complex s le design and clustering. Although parents had average lower accelerometry counts than children (mean [SD] 209 [46] vs 284 [71] g.min), 93% of parents met MVPA daily duration guidelines on published cutpoints (mean [SD] 125 [63] min/day MVPA), compared with only 15% of children (mean 32 [27] min). Parents showed less daily SB duration (parents: 540 [101], children: 681 [69] minutes) and less fragmented accumulation of MVPA (parents: α=1.85, children: α=2.00). Parent–child correlation coefficients were 0.16 (95% CI 0.11 to 0.22) for MVPA duration, 0.10 (95% CI 0.04 to 0.16) for MVPA fragmentation, 0.16 (95% CI 0.11 to 0.22) for SB duration and 0.18 (95% CI 0.12 to 0.23) for SB fragmentation. Standardised cutpoints are needed for objective activity measures to inform activity guidelines across the lifecourse. This may reflect large amounts of time in non-shared environments (school and work).
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 04-2004
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2020
DOI: 10.1016/J.SLEH.2019.09.006
Abstract: Previous studies have linked short sleep duration, poor sleep quality, and late sleep timing with lower health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in children. However, almost all studies relied solely on self-reported sleep information, and most studies were conducted in high-income countries. To address these gaps, we studied both device-measured and self-reported sleep characteristics in relation to HRQoL in a s le of children from 12 countries that vary widely in terms of economic and human development. The study s le included 6,626 children aged 9-11 years from Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Colombia, Finland, India, Kenya, Portugal, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Waist-worn actigraphy was used to measure total sleep time, bedtime, wake-up time, and sleep efficiency on both weekdays and weekends. Children also reported ratings of sleep quantity and quality. HRQoL was measured by the KIDSCREEN-10 survey. Multilevel regression models were used to determine the relationships between sleep characteristics and HRQoL. Results showed considerable variation in sleep characteristics, particularly duration and timing, across study sites. Overall, we found no association between device-measured total sleep time, sleep timing or sleep efficiency, and HRQoL. In contrast, self-reported ratings of poor sleep quantity and quality were associated with HRQoL. Self-reported, rather than device-based, measures of sleep are related to HRQoL in children. The discrepancy related to sleep assessment methods highlights the importance of considering both device-measured and self-reported measures of sleep in understanding its health effects.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2018.10.025
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to examine whether meeting movement behavior recommendations (i.e., ≥60 min of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity [MVPA] per day, ≤2 h of recreational screen time per day, and between 9 and 11 h of nightly sleep), and combinations of these recommendations, are associated with dietary patterns of children. This cross-sectional study was conducted between 2011 and 2013 and included 5873 children 9-11 years of age from 12 countries around the world. MVPA and nightly sleep duration were measured using 24-hour waist-worn accelerometry. Screen time habits were assessed via self-report. A food frequency questionnaire was used to assess dietary patterns, and the whole diet was described by two components derived from principal component analysis: "healthy" and "unhealthy" dietary pattern scores. Covariates included in the multilevel statistical models included age, sex, highest parental education, and body mass index z-score. A healthier dietary pattern score was observed when more movement behavior recommendations were met. Among the three movement behaviors, limiting screen time habits to the recommended amount was most strongly associated with healthier dietary patterns. Similarly, a less unhealthy dietary pattern was observed when more movement behavior recommendations were met. Surprisingly, the highest unhealthy dietary pattern was associated with children meeting the MVPA recommendation alone. Combinations including ≤2 h of screen time per day were those most strongly associated with a less unhealthy dietary pattern. Findings were similar across study sites and in boys and girls. In conclusion, meeting more movement behavior recommendations is generally associated with better dietary patterns in children from around the world, with limiting screen time habits showing the strongest relationships.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2020
DOI: 10.1016/J.MVR.2019.103966
Abstract: Traditional retinal microvascular parameters (smaller arteriolar and greater venular caliber) are associated with cardiovascular risk factors, pre-clinical vascular phenotypes and clinical cardiovascular events in adults. Although novel retinal microvascular geometric parameters showed analogous associations in adults, less is known whether these parameters are associated with cardiovascular health from childhood. In a population-based cross-sectional study in children (n = 1126, mean age 11.4 years, 50.3% girls), we examined associations of cardiovascular risk factors and pre-clinical arterial phenotypes with retinal geometric parameters. Cardiovascular parameters included body mass index (BMI), an inflammatory marker (GlycA), low-density lipoprotein and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure, large artery functional (pulse wave velocity, PWV and carotid arterial elasticity) and structural (carotid intima-media thickness) phenotypes. Retinal geometric parameters (fractal dimension (D
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.SLEH.2018.05.004
Abstract: Sleep is important for the physical, social and mental well-being of both children and adults. In this paper, we discuss the need to consider sleep as a multidimensional construct and as a component of total 24-hour activity. First, we make a case for considering sleep as a multidimensional construct, whereby all characteristics of sleep (including duration, quality, timing, and variability) and their links with health are examined. Second, we argue that sleep should also be conceptualized as part of the daily spectrum of time-use, along with other types of activity. We propose novel statistical models, in particular compositional data analysis (CoDA), as appropriate analytical methods for a new sleep paradigm.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.JSAMS.2012.11.885
Abstract: To describe time use clusters and correlate-cluster profiles of Australian youth. Secondary analysis of cross-sectional national survey. Data were from the National Children's Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey, a random s le (n=1853) of 9-16 years old Australians (February-August 2007). Time use data were collected using the Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adults, and collapsed into 17 age-adjusted variables for sex-specific cluster analysis. Cluster associations with socio-demographic, anthropometric, health and dietary variables were analysed. For boys (n=930), the Social tasker cluster was characterised by social interaction and chores & work, the Techno-active cluster by team sport and TV and the Techno-studious cluster by video games and study. Average daily pedometer steps, age and remoteness were significant cluster correlates. For the girls (n=923), the Social screenie cluster was characterised by TV and social interaction, the Quiet actives cluster by quiet time and non-team sport and the Techno-studious cluster by video games and study. Pedometer steps, age, parental income and education, parent-child age difference, "extra foods", fat and fruit intakes were significant correlates. Distinct sex-specific time use clusters and profiles exist among Australian youth. These findings may assist the development of targeted time use interventions to improve health and well-being.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 03-07-2017
DOI: 10.1007/S11136-017-1639-9
Abstract: To investigate associations between aspects of time use and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in youth. 239 obese and healthy-weight 10- to 13-year-old Australian children completed the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL™) quantifying their health-related quality of life. Time use was evaluated over four days using the Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adolescents (MARCA), a validated 24 h recall tool. The average number of minutes/day spent in physical activity ( ided into sport, active transport and play), screen time ( ided into television, videogames and computer use), and sleep were calculated. Percent fat was measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, Tanner stage by self-report, and household income by parental report. Sex-stratified analysis was conducted using Partial Least Squares regression, with percent fat, Tanner stage, household income, and use-of-time as the independent variables, and PedsQL™ total, physical and psychosocial subscale scores as the dependent variables. For boys, the most important predictors of HRQoL were percent fat (negative), videogames (negative), sport (positive), and Tanner stage (negative). For girls, the significant predictors were percent fat (negative), television (negative), sport (positive), active transport (negative), and household income (positive). While body fat was the most significant correlate of HRQoL, sport was independently associated with better HRQoL, and television and videogames with poorer HRQoL. Thus, parents and clinicians should be mindful that not all physical activity and screen-based behaviours have equivocal relationships with children's HRQoL. Prospective research is needed to confirm causation and to inform current activity guidelines.
Publisher: Canadian Science Publishing
Date: 06-2016
Abstract: Leaders from the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology convened representatives of national organizations, content experts, methodologists, stakeholders, and end-users who followed rigorous and transparent guideline development procedures to create the Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines for Children and Youth: An Integration of Physical Activity, Sedentary Behaviour, and Sleep. These novel guidelines for children and youth aged 5–17 years respect the natural and intuitive integration of movement behaviours across the whole day (24-h period). The development process was guided by the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research Evaluation (AGREE) II instrument and systematic reviews of evidence informing the guidelines were assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. Four systematic reviews (physical activity, sedentary behaviour, sleep, integrated behaviours) examining the relationships between and among movement behaviours and several health indicators were completed and interpreted by expert consensus. Complementary compositional analyses were performed using Canadian Health Measures Survey data to examine the relationships between movement behaviours and health indicators. A stakeholder survey was employed (n = 590) and 28 focus groups/stakeholder interviews (n = 104) were completed to gather feedback on draft guidelines. Following an introductory preamble, the guidelines provide evidence-informed recommendations for a healthy day (24 h), comprising a combination of sleep, sedentary behaviours, light-, moderate-, and vigorous-intensity physical activity. Proactive dissemination, promotion, implementation, and evaluation plans have been prepared in an effort to optimize uptake and activation of the new guidelines. Future research should consider the integrated relationships among movement behaviours, and similar integrated guidelines for other age groups should be developed.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 04-2016
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 11-08-2016
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 21-03-2018
Publisher: Routledge
Date: 03-09-2019
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 23-03-2021
DOI: 10.1186/S12877-021-02148-3
Abstract: It is unclear whether adiposity leads to changes in movement behaviors, and there is a lack of compositional analyses of longitudinal data which focus on these associations. Using a compositional approach, this study aimed to examine the associations between baseline adiposity and 7-year changes in physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SB) among elderly women. We also explored the longitudinal associations between change in adiposity and change in movement-behavior composition. This longitudinal study included 176 older women (mean baseline age 62.8 (4.1) years) from Central Europe. Movement behavior was assessed by accelerometers and adiposity was measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis at baseline and follow-up. A set of multivariate least-squares regression analyses was used to examine the associations of baseline adiposity and longitudinal changes in adiposity as explanatory variables with longitudinal changes in a 3-part movement-behavior composition consisting of SB, light PA (LPA) and moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) as outcome variables. No significant associations were found between baseline adiposity and longitudinal changes in the movement-behavior composition ( p 0.05). We found significant associations of changes in body mass index (BMI) and fat mass percentage (FM%) with changes in the movement-behavior composition. An increase in BMI was associated with an increase of SB at the expense of LPA and MVPA ( β = 0.042, p = 0.009) and with a decrease of MVPA in favor of SB and LPA ( β = − 0.059, p = 0.037). An increase in FM% was significantly associated only with an increase of SB at the expense of LPA and MVPA ( β = 0.019, p = 0.031). This study did not support the assumption that baseline adiposity is associated with longitudinal changes in movement behaviors among elderly women, but we found evidence for change-to-change associations, suggesting that a 7-year increase in adiposity is associated with a concurrent increase of SB at the expense of LPA and MVPA and with a concurrent decrease of MVPA in favor of LPA and SB. Public health interventions are needed to simultaneously prevent weight gain and promote physically active lifestyle among elderly women.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2020
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 29-05-2013
Abstract: Physical activity is reduced during the post-partum period. Facebook is frequently used by Australian mothers, and offers flexibility, high levels of engagement and the ability to disseminate information and advice via social contacts. The Mums Step it Up Program is a newly developed 50 day team-based physical activity intervention delivered via a Facebook app. The program involves post-partum women working in teams of 4–8 friends aiming to achieve 10,000 steps per day measured by a pedometer. Women are encouraged to use the app to log their daily steps and undertake social and supportive interactions with their friends and other participants. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of the Mums Step it Up Program. A s le of 126 women up to 12 months post-partum will be recruited through community-based health and family services. Participants will be randomly allocated into one of three groups: control, pedometer only and the Mums Step it Up Program. Assessments will be completed at baseline, 6 weeks and 6 months. The primary outcome (objective physical activity) and the secondary outcomes (sleep quality and quantity, depressive symptoms, weight and quality of life) will be used to determine the effectiveness of the Mums Step it Up Program compared with the control and pedometer only groups. Analyses will be undertaken on an intention-to-treat-basis using random effects mixed modeling. The effect of theorized mediators (physical activity attitudes, subjective norms and perceived behavioral control) will also be examined. This study will provide information about the potential of a Facebook app for the delivery of health behavior interventions. If this intervention proves to be effective it will be released on a mass scale and promoted to the general public. Australia and New Zealand Clinical Trials Register: ACTRN12613000069752
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 19-07-2018
DOI: 10.1038/S41366-018-0170-6
Abstract: Hearing loss is a disabling condition whose prevalence rises with age. Obesity-a risk factor common to many non-communicable diseases-now appears to be implicated. We aimed to determine: (1) cross-sectional associations of body composition measures with hearing in mid-childhood and mid-life and (2) its longitudinal associations with 10-year body mass index (BMI) trajectories. Design & Participants: There were 1481 11-12-year-old children and 1266 mothers in the population-based cross-sectional CheckPoint study nested within the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children (LSAC). Anthropometry (CheckPoint): BMI, fat/fat-free mass indices, waist-to-height ratio LSAC wave 2-6-biennial measured BMI. Audiometry (CheckPoint): Mean hearing threshold across 1, 2 and 4 kHz hearing loss (threshold > 15 dB HL, better ear). Latent class models identifying BMI trajectories linear/logistic regression quantifying associations of body composition/trajectories with hearing threshold/loss. Measures of adiposity, but not fat-free mass, were cross-sectionally associated with hearing. Fat mass index predicted the hearing threshold and loss in children (β 0.6, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.3-0.8, P < 0.001 , odds ratio (OR) 1.2, 95% CI 1.0-1.4, P = 0.05) and mothers (β 0.8, 95% CI 0.5-1.2, P < 0.001 OR 1.2, 95% CI 1.1-1.4, P = 0.003). Concurrent obesity (OR 1.5, 95% CI 1.1-2.1, P = 0.02) and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) ≥ 0.6 (OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.2-2.3, P = 0.01) predicted maternal hearing, with similar but attenuated patterns in children. In longitudinal analyses, mothers', but not children's, BMI trajectories predicted hearing (OR for severely obese 3.0, 95% CI 1.4-6.6, P = 0.01). Concurrent adiposity and decade-long BMI trajectories showed small, but clear, associations with poor hearing in mid-life women, with emergent patterns by mid-childhood. This suggests that obesity may play a role in the rising global burden of hearing loss. Replication and mechanistic and body compositional studies could elucidate possible causal relationships.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 18-05-2020
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-09-2014
Publisher: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
Date: 16-05-2023
DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.15.23289982
Abstract: Increasing physical activity (PA) is an effective strategy to slow reductions in cortical volume and maintain cognitive function in older adulthood. However, PA does not exist in isolation, but coexists with sleep and sedentary behaviour to make up the 24-hour day. We investigated how the balance of all three behaviours (24-hour time-use composition) is associated with grey matter volume in healthy older adults, and whether grey matter volume influences the relationship between 24-hour time-use composition and cognitive function. This cross-sectional study included 378 older adults (65.6 ± 3.0 years old, 123 male) from the ACTIVate study across two Australian sites (Adelaide and Newcastle). Time-use composition was captured using 7-day accelerometry, and T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging was used to measure grey matter volume both globally and across regions of interest (ROI: frontal lobe, temporal lobe, hippoc i, and lateral ventricles). Pairwise correlations were used to explore univariate associations between time-use variables, grey matter volumes and cognitive outcomes. Compositional data analysis linear regression models were used to quantify associations between ROI volumes and time-use composition, and explore potential associations between the interaction between ROI volumes and time-use composition with cognitive outcomes. After adjusting for covariates (age, sex, education), there were no significant associations between time-use composition and any volumetric outcomes. There were significant interactions between time-use composition and frontal lobe volume for long-term memory (p=0.018) and executive function (p=0.018), and between time-use composition and total grey matter volume for executive function (p=0.028). Spending more time in moderate-vigorous PA was associated with better long-term memory scores, but only for those with smaller frontal lobe volume (below the s le mean). Conversely, spending more time in sleep and less time in sedentary behaviour was associated with better executive function in those with smaller total grey matter volume. Although 24-hour time use was not associated with total or regional grey matter independently, total grey matter and frontal lobe grey matter volume mediated the relationship between time-use composition and several cognitive outcomes. Future studies should investigate these relationships longitudinally to assess whether changes in time-use composition correspond to changes in grey matter volume and cognition.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2020
DOI: 10.1016/J.AMEPRE.2019.09.009
Abstract: Appealing approaches to increasing physical activity levels are needed. This study evaluated whether a social and gamified smartphone app (Active Team) could be one such approach. A 3-group cluster RCT compared the efficacy of Active Team with a basic self-monitoring app and waitlist control group. Australian adults (N=444, mean age of 41 years, 74% female) were recruited in teams (n=121) and randomly assigned (1:1:1) to the Active Team (n=141, 39 teams), self-monitoring app (n=160, 42 teams), or waitlist group (n=143, 40 teams). Data were collected in 2016-2017, and analysis was conducted in 2018-2019. Active Team is a 100-day app-based, gamified, online social networking physical activity intervention. The primary outcome was change in objective physical activity from baseline to 3-month follow-up. Secondary outcomes included objective physical activity at 9 months and self-reported physical activity, quality of life, depression, anxiety and stress, well-being, and engagement. Mixed models indicated no significant differences in objective physical activity between groups at 3 (F=0.17, p=0.84 Cohen's d=0.03, 95% CI= -0.21, 0.26) or 9 months (F=0.23, p=0.92 d=0.06, 95% CI= -0.17, 0.29) and no significant differences for secondary outcomes of quality of life, depression, anxiety and stress, or well-being. Self-reported moderate-to-vigorous physical activity was significantly higher in the Active Team group at the 9-month follow-up (F=3.05, p=0.02 d=0.50, 95% CI=0.26, 0.73). Engagement was high the Active Team group logged steps on an average of 72 (SD=35) days and used the social and gamified features an average of 89 (SD=118) times. A gamified, online social networking physical activity intervention did not change objective moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, though it did increase self-reported moderate-to-vigorous physical activity and achieve high levels of engagement. Future work is needed to understand if gamification, online social networks, and app-based approaches can be leveraged to achieve positive behavior change. This study is registered at Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry (protocol: ANZCTR12617000113358).
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 19-04-2018
Abstract: Whether outdoor time is linked to dietary patterns of children has yet to be empirically tested. The objective of this study was to examine the association between outdoor time and dietary patterns of children from 12 countries around the world. This multinational, cross-sectional study included 6229 children 9–11 years of age. Children self-reported the time that they spent outside before school, after school and on weekends. A composite score was calculated to reflect overall daily outdoor time. Dietary patterns were assessed using a food frequency questionnaire, and two components were used for analysis: healthy and unhealthy dietary pattern scores. On average, children spent 2.5 h outside per day. After adjusting for age, sex, parental education, moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, screen time and body mass index z-score, greater time spent outdoors was associated with healthier dietary pattern scores. No association was found between outdoor time and unhealthy dietary pattern scores. Similar associations between outdoor time and dietary patterns were observed for boys and girls and across study sites. Greater time spent outside was associated with a healthier dietary pattern in this international s le of children. Future research should aim to elucidate the mechanisms behind this association.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 10-08-2016
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 24-08-2022
DOI: 10.1007/S40279-022-01752-6
Abstract: The measurement of physical fitness has a history that dates back nearly 200 years. Recently, there has been an increase in international research and surveillance on physical fitness creating a need for setting international priorities that could help guide future efforts. This study aimed to produce a list of the top 10 international priorities for research and surveillance on physical fitness among children and adolescents. Using a twin-panel Delphi method, two independent panels consisting of 46 international experts were identified (panel 1 = 28, panel 2 = 18). The panel participants were asked to list up to five priorities for research or surveillance (round 1), and then rated the items from their own panel on a 5-point Likert scale of importance (round 2). In round 3, experts were asked to rate the priorities identified by the other panel. There was strong between-panel agreement (panel 1: r s = 0.76, p 0.01 panel 2: r s = 0.77, p 0.01) in the priorities identified. The list of the final top 10 priorities included (i) “conduct longitudinal studies to assess changes in fitness and associations with health”. This was followed by (ii) “use fitness surveillance to inform decision making”, and (iii) “implement regular and consistent international/national fitness surveys using common measures”. The priorities identified in this study provide guidance for future international collaborations and research efforts on the physical fitness of children and adolescents over the next decade and beyond.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 09-11-2021
Abstract: Sport may promote academic performance through physiological and psychosocial mechanisms. We aimed to examine the association between sports participation and academic performance in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. Participants were from four successive waves of Australia’s Longitudinal Study of Indigenous Children ( n = 303, baseline age 5–6 y). Cumulative sports participation was regressed against academic performance from two standardised tests. Children participating in sport at all four waves performed significantly better than children participating in sport in 0, 2 or 3 waves in Progressive Achievement Test (PAT) Maths (110 vs. 103, 105 and 105, p = 0.007, 0.02 and 0.02, respectively), and better than children participating at two waves in National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) numeracy (438 vs. 409, p = 0.006). There were no significant differences in PAT reading or NAPLAN literacy. Sports participation appears to be associated with subsequent better numeracy (2–7 months of learning) in a s le of Australian indigenous children. Fostering sports participation among indigenous children may be an avenue for reducing disadvantage.
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 02-2016
Abstract: This study investigated associations between weather conditions, physical activity, and sedentary time in primary school-aged children in Australia and Canada. Cross-sectional data on 9–11-year-old children from the Australian ( n = 491) and Canadian ( n = 524) sites of the International Study of Childhood Obesity, Lifestyle and the Environment were used. Minutes of daily moderate-to-vigorous-physical-activity (MVPA) and sedentary time were determined from 7-day, 24-h accelerometry (Actigraph GT3X+ triaxial accelerometer). Day-matched weather data (temperature, rainfall, snowfall, relative humidity, wind speed) were obtained from the closest weather station to participants’ schools. Covariates included parental highest education level, day type, sex, and BMI z-scores. Generalized mixed model analyses allowing for clustering of participants within schools were completed. Scatterplots with Loess curves were created for maximum temperature, MVPA, and sedentary time. Daily maximum temperature was significantly associated with MVPA and sedentary time in Australia (MVPA p = .05, sedentary p = .01) and Canada ( p .001, p = .001). Rainfall was negatively associated with MVPA in Australia ( p .001) and positively associated with sedentary time in Canada ( p = .02). MVPA and sedentary time appear to be optimal when the maximum temperature ranges between 20°C and 25°C in both countries. The findings have implications for study design and interpretation for surveillance and intervention studies.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 20-04-2015
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 30-11-2014
DOI: 10.1002/AJHB.22490
Abstract: This study quantified differences in body shape of people differing in body mass index (BMI), using three-dimensional (3D) scan-extracted segmental body volumes. Eight segmental volumes were measured on 340 young adults (169 males and 171 females) aged 18-30 years, using the Vitus Smart 3D whole body scanner. Body volumes were also expressed as a ratio of the sex-specific mean volume (segmental or whole body) and compared to BMI using simple linear regression, multiple-segment-linear regression and Lowess curves. While all segmental volumes increased significantly as BMI increased, the BMI-related patterns of increase varied among different body segments. For ex le, pelvis and abdomen volumes increased at a significantly greater rate than whole body volume, with the rates of increase greatest in the overweight and obese. Body shape changes due to variations in body volume could have important implications in a range of fields that currently use 1D anthropometric measurements that do not capture body shape differences in the same detail.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.APMR.2015.10.094
Abstract: To test the safety, feasibility, and effectiveness of reducing sitting time in stroke survivors. Randomized controlled trial with attention-matched controls and blinded assessments. Community. Stroke survivors (N=35 22 men mean age, 66.9±12.7y). Four counseling sessions over 7 weeks with a message of sit less and move more (intervention group) or calcium for bone health (attention-matched control group). Measures included safety (adverse events, increases in pain, spasticity, or fatigue) and feasibility (adherence to trial protocol). Secondary measures included time spent sitting (including in prolonged bouts ≥30min), standing, and stepping as measured by the thigh-worn inclinometer (7d, 24h/d protocol) and time spent in physical activity of at least moderate intensity as measured by a triaxial accelerometer. The Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adults was used to describe changes in use of time. Thirty-three participants completed the full protocol. Four participants reported falls during the intervention period with no other adverse events. From a baseline average of 640.7±99.6min/d, daily sitting time reduced on average by 30±50.6min/d (95% confidence interval [CI], 5.8-54.6) in the intervention group and 40.4±92.5min/d in the control group (95% CI, 13.0-93.8). Participants in both groups also reduced their time spent in prolonged sitting bouts (≥30min) and increased time spent standing and stepping. Our protocol was both safe and feasible. Participants in both groups spent less time sitting and more time standing and stepping postintervention, but outcomes were not superior for intervention participants. Attention matching is desirable in clinical trials and may have contributed to the positive outcomes for control participants.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 29-05-2015
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-09-2010
DOI: 10.1111/J.1440-1754.2010.01830.X
Abstract: To determine whether adolescent health and well-being are associated with having a pet in the household (any pet, or specifically dogs, cats or horses onies) or average daily time spent caring for laying with pet(s). Design, setting and participants--Cross-sectional data from the third wave of the Health of Young Victorians Study (HOYVS), a school-based population study in Victoria, Australia. Predictors--Adolescent-reported pet ownership and average daily time spent caring for laying with pet(s). Outcomes--Self-reported quality of life (KIDSCREEN) average 4-day daily physical activity level from a computerised diary parent-proxy and self-reported physical and psychosocial health status (PedsQL) measured BMI status (not overweight, overweight, obese) and blood pressure. Statistical Analysis--Regression methods, adjusted for socio-demographic factors, and non-parametric methods. Household pet data were available for 928 adolescents (466 boys mean age of 15.9 (SD 1.2) years). Most adolescents (88.7%) reported having a pet in their household. Of these, 75.1% reported no activity involving pets over the surveyed days. It appeared that neither owning a pet nor time spent caring for laying with a pet was related, positively or negatively, to adolescent health or well-being. Despite high rates of pet ownership, adolescents had little interaction with pets. It appears that owning a pet and time spent caring for laying with a pet was not clearly associated with adolescents' health or well-being.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 25-11-2013
DOI: 10.1111/J.1365-2214.2011.01352.X
Abstract: No studies to date have examined the daily time spent across a variety of activity types (sleep, screen time, physical activity, domestic and school-related) in children with cerebral palsy (CP). To investigate the activity patterns of adolescents with CP and contrast them with those of typically developing (TD) adolescents, using a use-of-time approach. Forty-one Australian adolescents with CP and 82 TD adolescents matched for age, sex, weight status and socio-economic status undertook structured interviews using a validated computerized use of time recall administered over 4 days. Time devoted to sleep, screen time, physical activity, domestic and school-related activity were compared using anova and Mann-Whitney tests. Adolescents with CP spent less time in physical activity (91 vs. 147 min/day, P= 0.0003), and in particular, its sub-components of active transport (28 vs. 52 min/day, P= 0.0013) and team sports (25 vs. 39 min/day, P= 0.04). They experienced significantly more quiet time (116 vs. 80 min/day, P= 0.0025) but spent less time in social interaction (6 vs. 22 min/day, P= 0.0016). There were no significant differences in sleep, screen time, domestic activities or school-related time. By and large, the activity patterns of ambulatory adolescents with CP were similar to their TD peers. Results highlight physical activity in younger adolescents (11-13 years) as an area for targeted interventions.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 23-10-2019
DOI: 10.1186/S12889-019-7671-7
Abstract: Emerging evidence suggests that children become fatter and less fit over the summer holidays but get leaner and fitter during the in-school period. This could be due to differences in diet and time use between these distinct periods. Few studies have tracked diet and time use across the summer holidays. This study will measure rates of change in fatness and fitness of children, initially in Grade 4 (age 9 years) across three successive years and relate these changes to changes in diet and time use between in-school and summer holiday periods. Grade 4 Children attending Australian Government, Catholic and Independent schools in the Adelaide metropolitan area will be invited to participate, with the aim of recruiting 300 students in total. Diet will be reported by parents using the Automated Self-Administered 24-h Dietary Assessment Tool. Time use will be measured using 24-h wrist-worn accelerometry (GENEActiv) and self-reported by children using the Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adults (e.g. chores, reading, sport). Measurement of diet and time use will occur at the beginning (Term 1) and end (Term 4) of each school year and during the summer holiday period. Fitness (20-m shuttle run and standing broad jump) and fatness (body mass index z -score, waist circumference, %body fat) will be measured at the beginning and end of each school year. Differences in rates of change in fitness and fatness during in-school and summer holiday periods will be calculated using model parameter estimate contrasts from linear mixed effects model. Model parameter estimate contrasts will be used to calculate differences in rates of change in outcomes by socioeconomic position (SEP), sex and weight status. Differences in rates of change of outcomes will be regressed against differences between in-school and summer holiday period diet and time use, using compositional data analysis. Analyses will adjust for age, sex, SEP, parenting style, weight status, and pubertal status, where appropriate. Findings from this project may inform new, potent avenues for intervention efforts aimed at addressing childhood fitness and fatness. Interventions focused on the home environment, or alternatively extension of the school environment may be warranted. Australia New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry, identifier ACTRN12618002008202 . Retrospectively registered on 14 December 2018.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.METABOL.2012.07.021
Abstract: Low levels of daily energy expenditure (insufficient physical activity and increased sedentary time) have been associated with adverse health outcomes in young people. The Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adolescents (MARCA) is a computerized, self-report, use-of-time tool that can assess daily energy expenditure. The study aim was to validate the MARCA for the estimation of energy expenditure in young people, using the criterion standard doubly labeled water. Over a 15 day assessment period, 32 participants (10-18 years) completed the MARCA and underwent a doubly labeled water protocol. Indirect calorimetry was used to assess resting metabolic rate. Total daily energy expenditure (TEE) and activity-related energy expenditure (AEE) were estimated from both the MARCA and doubly labeled water. Association and agreement between methods for TEE and AEE were assessed using Spearman correlations and Bland-Altman plots, respectively. Compared to doubly labeled water, the MARCA over-estimated TEE by an average of 50 kcal/day (limits of agreement -1 589 to 1 490 kcal/day) and under-estimated AEE 105 kcal/day (limits of agreement -1 404 to 1 614 kcal/day). The MARCA showed strong correlation with doubly labeled water for TEE (rho=0.70, p<0.0001) and moderate correlation for AEE (rho=0.56, p=0.0009). Overall, the MARCA indicated moderate validity for the assessment of daily TEE and AEE. The wide limits of agreement indicate the MARCA has greater utility for group-level rather than in idual-level estimates.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.JSAMS.2014.01.004
Abstract: The objective of this study was to investigate changes in use of time when undertaking a structured exercise program. This study used a randomized, multi-arm, controlled trial design. A total of 129 insufficiently active adults aged 18-60 years were recruited and randomly allocated to one of three groups, a Moderate or Extensive six-week exercise group (150 and 300 additional minutes of exercise per week, respectively) or a Control group. Prescribed exercise was accumulated through both group and in idual sessions. Use of time was measured at baseline and end-program using the Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adults, a computerized 24-h recall instrument. Daily minutes of activity in activity domains and energy expenditure zones were determined. Relative to changes in the control group, daily time spent in the physical activity [F (2, 108)=20.21, p<0.001] and Active Transport [F (2, 108)=3.71, p=0.03] time use domains significantly increased in the intervention groups by 21-45 min/day. Comparatively, the intervention groups spent significantly less time watching television [F (2, 108)=5.02, p=0.008 -50-52 min/day], relative to Controls. Additionally, time spent in the moderate to vigorous energy expenditure zone had significantly increased in the intervention groups by end-program [F (2, 108)=6.35, p=0.002 48-50 min/day], relative to Controls. This study is the first to comprehensively map changes in time use across an exercise program. The results suggest that exercise interventions should be mindful not only of compliance but also of "isotemporal displacement" of behaviors.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.SLEH.2017.10.010
Abstract: To examine the relationships between socioeconomic status (SES household income and parental education) and objectively measured sleep patterns (sleep duration, sleep efficiency, and bedtime) among children from around the world and explore how the relationships differ across country levels of human development. Multinational, cross-sectional study from sites in Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Colombia, Finland, India, Kenya, Portugal, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The International Study of Childhood Obesity, Lifestyle and the Environment. A total of 6040 children aged 9-11 years. Sleep duration, sleep efficiency, and bedtime were monitored over 7 consecutive days using waist-worn accelerometers. Multilevel models were used to examine the relationships between sleep patterns and SES. In country-specific analyses, there were no significant linear trends for sleep duration and sleep efficiency based on income and education levels. There were significant linear trends in 4 countries for bedtime (Australia, United States, United Kingdom, and India), generally showing that children in the lowest income group had later bedtimes. Later bedtimes were associated with lowest level of parental education in only 2 countries (United Kingdom and India). Patterns of associations between sleep characteristics and SES were not different between boys and girls. Sleep patterns of children (especially sleep duration and efficiency) appear unrelated to SES in each of the 12 countries, with no differences across country levels of human development. The lack of evidence for an epidemiological transition in sleep patterns suggests that efforts to improve sleep hygiene of children should not be limited to any specific SES level.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 10-2011
DOI: 10.3109/17477166.2011.605895
Abstract: Until quite recently, there has been a widespread belief in the popular media and scientific literature that the prevalence of childhood obesity is rapidly increasing. However, high quality evidence has emerged from several countries suggesting that the rise in the prevalence has slowed appreciably, or even plateaued. This review brings together such data from nine countries (Australia, China, England, France, Netherlands, New Zealand, Sweden, Switzerland and USA), with data from 467,294 children aged 2-19 years. The mean unweighted rate of change in prevalence of overweight and obesity was +0.00 (0.49)% per year across all age ×sex groups and all countries between 1995 and 2008. For overweight alone, the figure was +0.01 (0.56)%, and for obesity alone -0.01 (0.24)%. Rates of change differed by sex, age, socioeconomic status and ethnicity. While the prevalence of overweight and obesity appears to be stabilizing at different levels in different countries, it remains high, and a significant public health issue. Possible reasons for the apparent flattening are hypothesised.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 12-2014
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-03-2012
DOI: 10.1002/AJHB.22258
Abstract: These were to examine the relationship between leg cross-sectional areas (CSAs) and leg length while making allowance for other factors, such as fatness and the load on the legs. Body mass, stature, and sitting height were directly measured and volumes and leg CSAs were obtained by 3D scanning for 155 men and 162 women. Leg CSAs were regressed simultaneously on upper body mass and leg length. With allowance made for positive correlations with upper body mass, leg CSAs showed a negative correlation with leg length (P = 0.00006-0.027). There is a negative correlation between leg lengths and CSAs that is largely obscured by other influences.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.JSAMS.2011.05.011
Abstract: While there is consistent evidence that rural adults in Australia are less active than their urban counterparts, studies relating geographical remoteness to activity patterns in Australian adolescents have yielded inconsistent results. The aim of this study was to describe objectively and subjectively measured patterns of physical activity and sedentary behaviours across remoteness categories in a representative s le of 9-16 year old Australians. Cross-sectional observational study. 2071 Australian adolescents provided self-report use of time data on four days and wore a pedometer for at least 6 days within the 2007 Australian National Children's Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey. Comparisons of activity patterns were made across four objectively-determined remoteness categories (Major City, Inner Regional, Outer Regional and Remote), adjusting for household income, parental education and age. Adolescents living in major cities self-reported 11-29 min less moderate to vigorous physical activity each day than their counterparts living in geographically more remote areas, and took 150-850 fewer steps each day. While there were no differences in time spent in sport or active transport, differences in free play participation were significant. Males in major cities also reported higher levels of screen time. Differences were somewhat more marked among males than among females. Activity levels among Australian adolescents show contrasting patterns of geographical differences to those found in Australian adults. Higher levels of free play among rural Australian adolescents may be due to more available space and less fear of traffic and stranger risks.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 06-04-2021
DOI: 10.1038/S41366-021-00800-X
Abstract: To investigate associations between early-life diet trajectories and preclinical cardiovascular phenotypes and metabolic risk by age 12 years. Participants were 1861 children (51% male) from the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children. At five biennial waves from 2-3 to 10-11 years: Every 2 years from 2006 to 2014, diet quality scores were collected from brief 24-h parent/self-reported dietary recalls and then classified using group-based trajectory modeling as 'never healthy' (7%), 'becoming less healthy' (17%), 'moderately healthy' (21%), and 'always healthy' (56%). At 11-12 years: During children's physical health Child Health CheckPoint (2015-2016), we measured cardiovascular functional (resting heart rate, blood pressure, pulse wave velocity, carotid elasticity/distensibility) and structural (carotid intima-media thickness, retinal microvasculature) phenotypes, and metabolic risk score (composite of body mass index z-score, systolic blood pressure, high-density lipoproteins cholesterol, triglycerides, and glucose). Associations were estimated using linear regression models (n = 1100-1800) adjusted for age, sex, and socioeconomic position. Compared to 'always healthy', the 'never healthy' trajectory had higher resting heart rate (2.6 bpm, 95% CI 0.4, 4.7) and metabolic risk score (0.23, 95% CI 0.01, 0.45), and lower arterial elasticity (-0.3% per 10 mmHg, 95% CI -0.6, -0.1) and distensibility (-1.2%, 95% CI -1.9, -0.5) (all effect sizes 0.3-0.4). Heart rate, distensibility, and diastolic blood pressure were progressively poorer for less healthy diet trajectories (linear trends p ≤ 0.02). Effects for systolic blood pressure, pulse wave velocity, and structural phenotypes were less evident. Children following the least healthy diet trajectory had poorer functional cardiovascular phenotypes and metabolic syndrome risk, including higher resting heart rate, one of the strongest precursors of all-cause mortality. Structural phenotypes were not associated with diet trajectories, suggesting the window to prevent permanent changes remains open to at least late childhood.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 07-01-2021
DOI: 10.1186/S12889-020-10100-0
Abstract: Regular engagement in physical activity has well-established physical and psychological health benefits. Despite this, over a quarter of the global adult population is insufficiently physically active. Physical activity interventions grounded in behaviour change theory, such as the social-cognitive theory, are widely considered to be more effective than non-theoretical approaches. Such interventions set out to intervene on the ultimate outcome (physical activity), but also influence intermediate factors (social-cognitive theory constructs) which in turn, are believed to influence physical activity behaviour. The primary aim of the study was to use mediation analysis to examine whether changes in the social-cognitive theory and related constructs, in particular self-efficacy, outcome expectations, intentions, barriers and goal setting, mediated the effects of a smartphone-based social networking physical activity intervention. Mediation analyses were conducted using the PROCESS Macro in SPSS to (i) calculate the regression coefficients for the effect of the independent variable (group allocation) on the hypothesised mediators (social-cognitive theory constructs), (ii) calculate the regression coefficient for the effect of the hypothesised mediators (social-cognitive theory constructs) on the dependent variable (objectively measured physical activity or self-report physical activity), independent of group assignment and (iii) determine the total, direct and indirect intervention effects. Data from 243 participants were included in the mediation analysis. There was no evidence of mediation for change in objectively measured MVPA or self-reported MVPA. There was no conclusive evidence that any of the social-cognitive theory constructs mediated the relationship between an app-based intervention and change in physical activity. Ongoing efforts to develop and understand components that make physical activity app-based interventions effective are recommended. This trial was registered with the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry ( ACTRN12617000113358 , date of registration 23 January, 2017).
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2012
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2006
DOI: 10.1080/17477160600684260
Abstract: To investigate secular trends in waist girth and skinfold measures among Australian children from 1985 and 1997/2002, matched for body size. A total of 2604 children (10-12 years old) measured in the 1985 Australian Health and Fitness Survey and in two later surveys of South Australian schoolchildren (1997/2002), were matched for age, stature, weight and body mass index (BMI). Measurements. The matched children were compared by ANOVA on waist and hip girths, waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and abdominal and triceps skinfolds, taken by trained anthropometrists. Between the survey periods, there were significant increases in waist girth, WHR, and the two skinfold measures, but more so for abdominal skinfold. The differences in abdominal skinfold, waist girth and WHR were greater for girls than boys. In Australian children matched for body size, there have been increases in measures of fatness and central adiposity over the last 20 years. This suggests that reported secular trends in BMI may be under-estimating the looming public health crisis.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 1998
DOI: 10.1016/S1440-2440(98)80007-8
Abstract: Recently Sports Medicine Australia (SMA) and the Australian Association for Exercise and Sport Science (AAESS) developed guidelines for pre-exercise screening and supervision of fitness testing, based on the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) system. The procedure involves classifying in iduals into one of three risk groups (apparently healthy, at higher risk, with known disease). Using data collected in a 1992 survey of 2298 Australian adults aged 18-78 years conducted by the Department of the Arts, Sport, the Environment and Territories (DASET), we calculated the percentage of the general population falling within each risk group and therefore exclusion rates (ie the proportion of subjects who, it is recommended, would require medical clearance prior to exercise or exercise testing). The analysis of data found that between 43-73% of males and 44-61% of females would require clearance. A cost analysis suggests that a rigorous application of the SMA-AAESS guidelines would cost between $250 million and $1.2 billion each year. On the basis of the results, suggestions for reviewing the guidelines have been proposed.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2015
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 30-04-2018
Abstract: he popularity and reach of social media make it an ideal delivery platform for interventions targeting health behaviors, such as physical inactivity. Research has identified a dose-response relationship whereby greater engagement and exposure are positively associated with intervention effects, hence enhancing engagement will maximize the potential of these interventions. his study examined the social media activity of successful commercial activity tracker brands to understand which creative elements (message content and design) they use in their communication to their audience, which social media platforms attract the most engagement, and which creative elements prompted the most engagement. osts (n=509) made by Fitbit and Garmin on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram over a 3-month period were coded for the presence of creative elements. User engagement regarding the total number of likes, comments, or shares per post was recorded. Negative binomial regression analyses were used to identify creative elements associated with higher engagement. ngagement on Instagram was 30-200 times higher than on Facebook, or Twitter. Fitbit and Garmin tended to use different creative elements from one another. A higher engagement was achieved by posts featuring an image of the product, highlighting new product features and with themes of self-improvement (P .01). indings suggest that Instagram may be a particularly promising platform for delivering engaging health messaging. Health messages which incorporate inspirational imagery and focus on a tangible product appear to achieve the highest engagement. Fitbit and Garmin employed difference creative elements, which is likely to reflect differences in their target markets. This underscores the importance of market segmentation in health messaging c aigns.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2023
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2018
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 21-03-2019
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 03-2021
Abstract: To evaluate the performance of Facebook advertisements for a physical activity smartphone app at different times of the year. A repeated cross-sectional study examined the cost and engagement levels of advertisements during 3 time points: Post-Easter April-May 2019 , Pre-Summer October 2019 , and New Year January 2020 . Advertisements were delivered on Facebook. The target population was Australian females aged 25-60 years. Cost was evaluated in terms of reach per dollar. Engagement was evaluated in terms of click-through and app downloads per reach. ANOVA and Chi-square were used to assess differences in reach per dollar, click-through, and app downloads per reach between time points. Reach per dollar was highest in Post-Easter, but declined in Pre-Summer and New Year (reach/$ 34.8 vs 31.5 vs 27.5 p = .004). Click-through was highest in New Year followed by Post-Easter, then Pre-Summer (click-through 3.2% vs 1.9% vs 1.2% p .001). New Year and Post-Easter advertisements achieved higher app downloads per reach than Pre-Summer (downloads 0.9% vs 0.7% vs 0.3% p .001). Facebook advertisements were cheaper in the first time-point, and appear to be getting more expensive (i.e. declining reach/$). Advertisements in the New Year achieved the highest click-through and app downloads per reach, suggesting a useful time of year to promote physical activity products.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 06-2019
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2009
DOI: 10.1016/J.JADOHEALTH.2008.05.003
Abstract: A knowledge of how young people use their time could be instrumental in informing health interventions, modeling consumer behaviors, and planning service delivery. The aim of the present study was to describe age- and gender-related patterns in the self-reported use of time on school days in a large s le of Australian children and adolescents aged between 10 and 18 years. A single, detailed use-of-time diary for a school day was collected from 6024 Australians aged 10-18 from several state and regional surveys conducted in the states of South Australia (SA) and Victoria between 2001 and 2006. Time-use profiles were analyzed for a range of active and sedentary state behaviors. Boys reported higher physical activity levels (PALs), moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), and sports than girls. There were no differences in free play, and girls used more active transport. All activity-related variables decreased with age, except active transport, which peaked at 14-15 years. Boys exhibited higher levels of screen time, whereas girls had higher levels of passive transport. Screen time and its components (television, videogames, and computer use) peaked in the peripubertal years. Age- and gender-related patterns of time use vary greatly within adolescence. This may reflect a mix of biological and social factors.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 08-2019
Abstract: To date, time-use studies in palliative care have been limited to exploration of time commitments of caregivers. Understanding time-use in people with a life-limiting illness might provide insight into disease progression, symptom management and quality of life. To determine the feasibility of a repeated-measures, time-use study in people with a life-limiting illness, and their primary caregivers, and to explore associations between time-use and perceived quality of life. An observational repeated-measures feasibility pilot study. A priori criteria were established for study uptake (70%), retention (80%) and study value/burden (⩾7 Numerical Rating Scale 0–10). Burden and value of the study, use of time (Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adults with adjunctive accelerometry) and quality of life data (EuroQol-5 Dimension-5-Level Health Questionnaire and Australia-modified Karnofsky Performance Status scale) were assessed at time-points across five consecutive months. People living with a life-limiting illness and caregivers recruited from Southern Adelaide Palliative Services outpatient clinics. A total of 10 participants (2 caregivers and 8 people with a life-limiting illness) enrolled in the study. All but one of the criteria thresholds was met: 66% of participants who consented to be screened were enrolled in the study, 80% of enrolled participants ( n = 8) completed all assessments (two participants died during the study) and mean Numerical Rating Scale scores for acceptable burden and value of the study exceeded the criteria thresholds at every time-point. A repeated-measures time-use study design is feasible and was not unduly burdensome for caregivers and people living with a life-limiting illness.
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 05-2011
DOI: 10.1123/JPAH.8.4.548
Abstract: Low physical activity has been associated with increased fatness and deceased fitness. This observational study aimed to describe the magnitude, composition, and time-distribution of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in Australian children. A total of 1132 10 to 13 year old schoolchildren completed a 24-h activity recall diary on 2 to 4 occasions. MVPA was defined as any activity requiring ≥3METs, including sport, play, active transport, chores, and other activities. MVPA was higher in boys than girls (173 vs 140 min/day P .0001), higher on nonschool days than school days (166 vs 143 min/day P .0001), and decreased with age (9 min/day per year of age). MVPA consisted of structured sport (37%), active transport (26%), unstructured play (24%), and chores/miscellaneous activities (13%). Every hour of MVPA was associated with a reduction in screen time (26.5 min), non-screen-based sedentary pastimes (8 min), and sleep (5.5 min). The least active quartile of children were more likely to be girls (OR = 3.4), have higher screen time, and sleep more. From 4:00−6:30 PM on school days there were large differences in participation between high-active and low-active children. Findings suggest MVPA interventions should target girls, screen time and focus on the after-school period.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 13-01-2016
DOI: 10.1111/JOSH.12357
Abstract: We attempted to determine whether there was a socioeconomic gradient in 9- to 11-year-old Australian children's moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), and whether school facilities or policies supporting physical activity were associated with school-level socioeconomic status (SES) and MVPA. Children (N = 528) from 26 randomly selected schools participated in the International Study of Childhood Obesity, Lifestyle and the Environment. School-level SES was determined by the Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage. MVPA was determined from 7-day, 24-hour accelerometry. School facilities (21 items) were evaluated with an objective school ground audit. School policies related to physical activity were collected (18 items) in a school administrator survey. Relationships among SES, MVPA, school facilities, and policies were examined using bivariate regression, correlation analyses, and analysis of variance. There was a clear SES gradient in daily and in-school MVPA. School facilities or physical activity policies were not associated with SES or in-school MVPA, with the exception of presence of a sports field which was associated with lower SES schools (p = .02) and lower in-school MVPA (p = .001). School-built, policy, and resource environments are similar across different SES-level schools. Therefore, some other mechanism must be underlying the SES gradients seen in MVPA participation in Australian children.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 28-09-2012
DOI: 10.1111/APA.12024
Abstract: To develop prediction equations for total and regional (trunk, abdominal, arms and legs) body fat using surface anthropometric measures in children aged 6-17 years. This was a cross-sectional correlation study of 70 Caucasian children aged 6-17 years recruited from a larger randomly s led population-based study. The independent variables included age, mass, height, body mass index, waist and hip girth, and skinfold thicknesses at eight sites. Subscapular/triceps skinfold ratio was also calculated and entered as an independent variable. The dependent variables were total body percentage fat, and fat mass for total body, trunk, abdominal region of interest, arms and legs measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Partial least squares regression was used to determine the best predictive equation for fat percentage or fat mass in each body region in each sex. Sex-specific prediction equations were developed with high coefficients of determination (r(2)), ranging from 0.869 to 0.936 in boys and from 0.900 to 0.979 in girls, absolute bias was low, and limits of agreement were narrow. Equations were developed, which were able to predict total and regional body fat of Caucasian children aged 6-17 years using surface anthropometric measurements with high predictive accuracy.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 12-2007
DOI: 10.1080/02640410701607296
Abstract: Evidence of the importance of physique in the athletics disciplines is supported by the persistence of certain characteristics over long periods, despite marked secular changes in the source population. These characteristics may also result in physiological benefits such as effective thermoregulation or a greater power-to-weight ratio. Coaches and athletes are often convinced of weight or fat loss benefits based on personal or anecdotal experience, intuition, and "trained eye" observation of successful competitors. This may entice athletes into adopting unbalanced, erratic or highly restrictive eating patterns that increase the risk for nutrient deficiencies, and disordered eating. Despite heavy training loads and often extreme diets, some athletes fall short of their physique goals as ultimately phenotype is under genetic control. Professionals assisting athletes with physique management need to be highly skilled in anthropometry and require a thorough understanding of sports-specific nutrition requirements. Careful assessment of the risks and benefits of various approaches to weight and fat loss is required before they are recommended to athletes.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 26-08-2020
Abstract: Previous research has examined associations between in idual activity behaviors and academic achievement. Yet activity behaviors should be analyzed together because they are codependent parts of the 24-hour day. This study aims to explore the associations between all daily activity behaviors (sleep, sedentary time, light physical activity [LPA], and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity [MVPA]) and academic achievement using compositional data analysis. Participants for this study were drawn from two cohorts: the Australian arm of the cross-sectional International Study of Childhood Obesity, Lifestyle and the Environment ( n = 452 mean age 10.7 years ( SD = 0.4) 54% female) and CheckPoint ( n = 1278 mean age 12 years [ SD = 0.4] 50% female), a cross-sectional study nested between Waves 6 and 7 of the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children. Objective daily activity behavior data (sleep, sedentary time, LPA, and MVPA) were collected using 8-day, 24-hour accelerometry. Academic achievement was assessed using a nationally administered standardized test in literacy (spelling, grammar and punctuation, writing and reading) and numeracy. Compositional models (adjusted for age, sex, socioeconomic position, and pubertal development) regressed academic scores against isometric log ratios of activity behaviors. We used the models to estimate academic achievement for observed daily activity mixes. Estimated outcomes were plotted against time spent in each in idual activity domain, and loess curves were fitted. In two different cohorts using two different accelerometers, lower LPA was related to better numeracy and literacy and higher sedentary time to better literacy (relative to time spent in other domains). Discussion and conclusion. LPA likely “drains time” from other movement behaviors, which are beneficial for academic achievement.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.HEALTHPLACE.2017.05.013
Abstract: We investigated whether associations of neighborhood social environment attributes and physical activity differed among 12 countries and levels of economic development using World Bank classification (low/lower-middle-, upper-middle- and high- income countries) among 9-11 year old children (N=6161) from the International Study of Childhood Obesity, Lifestyle, and the Environment (ISCOLE). Collective efficacy and perceived crime were obtained via parental/guardian report. Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) was assessed with waist-worn Actigraph accelerometers. Neighborhood environment by country interactions were tested using multi-level statistical models, adjusted for covariates. Effect estimates were reported by country and pooled estimates calculated across World Bank classifications for economic development using meta-analyses and forest plots. Associations between social environment attributes and MVPA varied among countries and levels of economic development. Associations were more consistent and in the hypothesized directions among countries with higher levels economic development, but less so among countries with lower levels of economic development.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 23-09-2020
DOI: 10.1002/JBMR.4143
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 14-06-2021
DOI: 10.1136/THORAXJNL-2021-217271
Abstract: Breathlessness is a major cause of suffering and disability globally. The symptom relates to multiple factors including asthma and lung function, which are influenced by hereditary factors. No study has evaluated potential inheritance of breathlessness itself across generations. We analysed the association between breathlessness in parents and their offspring in the Respiratory Health in Northern Europe, Spain and Australia generation study. Data on parents and offspring aged ≥18 years across 10 study centres in seven countries included demographics, self-reported breathlessness, asthma, depression, smoking, physical activity level, measured Body Mass Index and spirometry. Data were analysed using multivariable logistic regression accounting for clustering within centres and between siblings. A total of 1720 parents (mean age at assessment 36 years, 55% mothers) and 2476 offspring (mean 30 years, 55% daughters) were included. Breathlessness was reported by 809 (32.7%) parents and 363 (14.7%) offspring. Factors independently associated with breathlessness in parents and offspring included obesity, current smoking, asthma, depression, lower lung function and female sex. After adjusting for potential confounders, parents with breathlessness were more likely to have offspring with breathlessness, adjusted OR 1.8 (95% CI 1.1 to 2.9). The association was not modified by sex of the parent or offspring. Parents with breathlessness were more likely to have children who developed breathlessness, after adjusting for asthma, lung function, obesity, smoking, depression and female sex in both generations. The hereditary components of breathlessness need to be further explored.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.MATURITAS.2015.12.014
Abstract: This study aimed to evaluate the preliminary effectiveness and feasibility of a theory-informed program to reduce sitting time in older adults. Pre-experimental (pre-post) study. Thirty non-working adult (≥ 60 years) participants attended a one hour face-to-face intervention session and were guided through: a review of their sitting time normative feedback on sitting time and setting goals to reduce total sitting time and bouts of prolonged sitting. Participants chose six goals and integrated one per week incrementally for six weeks. Participants received weekly phone calls. Sitting time and bouts of prolonged sitting (≥ 30 min) were measured objectively for seven days (activPAL3c inclinometer) pre- and post-intervention. During these periods, a 24-h time recall instrument was administered by computer-assisted telephone interview. Participants completed a post-intervention project evaluation questionnaire. Paired t tests with sequential Bonferroni corrections and Cohen's d effect sizes were calculated for all outcomes. Twenty-seven participants completed the assessments (71.7 ± 6.5 years). Post-intervention, objectively-measured total sitting time was significantly reduced by 51.5 min per day (p=0.006 d=-0.58) and number of bouts of prolonged sitting by 0.8 per day (p=0.002 d=-0.70). Objectively-measured standing increased by 39 min per day (p=0.006 d=0.58). Participants self-reported spending 96 min less per day sitting (p<0.001 d=-0.77) and 32 min less per day watching television (p=0.005 d=-0.59). Participants were highly satisfied with the program. The 'Small Steps' program is a feasible and promising avenue for behavioral modification to reduce sitting time in older adults.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 23-04-2018
DOI: 10.1017/S1368980018000976
Abstract: To examine the relationships between objectively measured sleep patterns (sleep duration, sleep efficiency and bedtime) and sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption (regular soft drinks, energy drinks, sports drinks and fruit juice) among children from all inhabited continents of the world. Multinational, cross-sectional study. The International Study of Childhood Obesity, Lifestyle and the Environment (ISCOLE). Children ( n 5873) 9–11 years of age. Sleep duration was 12 min per night shorter in children who reported consuming regular soft drinks ‘at least once a day’ compared with those who reported consuming ‘never’ or ‘less than once a week’. Children were more likely to sleep the recommended 9–11 h/night if they reported lower regular soft drink consumption or higher sports drinks consumption. Children who reported consuming energy drinks ‘once a week or more’ reported a 25-min earlier bedtime than those who reported never consuming energy drinks. Children who reported consuming sports drinks ‘2–4 d a week or more’ also reported a 25-min earlier bedtime compared with those who reported never consuming sports drinks. The associations between sleep efficiency and SSB consumption were not significant. Similar associations between sleep patterns and SSB consumption were observed across all twelve study sites. Shorter sleep duration was associated with higher intake of regular soft drinks, while earlier bedtimes were associated with lower intake of regular soft drinks and higher intake of energy drinks and sports drinks in this international study of children. Future work is needed to establish causality and to investigate underlying mechanisms.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.SOCSCIMED.2018.04.018
Abstract: Sport and physical activity (PA) hold particular significance in Australian Indigenous communities, and have the potential to address many of the health and education challenges faced by Indigenous communities. Optimal levels of PA are an important foundation in efforts to build healthy communities and reduce social disadvantage experienced to date. Yet little evidence relating to the current levels of PA within these communities, or the relationship between PA and outcomes, has been available. Drawing on national survey data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, we examine levels of PA in the Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Survey 2012-13. These data describe PA levels among Indigenous Australians, aged 5-17 years, in remote and non-remote communities. We also examine the relationship between PA and participation in education and self-reported health among 15-17 year olds. Overall, participation rates appear to be high, with 64-84% of youth reporting at least 60 min of PA on the previous day. A gender gap was also evident, with lower levels of activity among girls. PA decreased with age, particularly at or around the age of puberty. There were no significant associations between PA and either self-reported health or engagement in study. There was a relationship between high PA and low area-level socio-economic status in remote areas, but no association in non-remote areas. The differences between remote and non-remote areas highlight the importance of disaggregated analysis of Indigenous populations and are consistent with qualitative studies identifying locally contextualised factors influential in promoting PA.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 13-07-2018
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 24-10-2013
Abstract: The quantity and quality of studies in child and adolescent physical activity and sedentary behaviour have rapidly increased, but research directions are often pursued in a reactive and uncoordinated manner. To arrive at an international consensus on research priorities in the area of child and adolescent physical activity and sedentary behaviour. Two independent panels, each consisting of 12 experts, undertook three rounds of a Delphi methodology. The Delphi methodology required experts to anonymously answer questions put forward by the researchers with feedback provided between each round. The primary outcome of the study was a ranked set of 29 research priorities that aimed to be applicable for the next 10 years. The top three ranked priorities were: developing effective and sustainable interventions to increase children’s physical activity long-term policy and/or environmental change and their influence on children’s physical activity and sedentary behaviour and prospective, longitudinal studies of the independent effects of physical activity and sedentary behaviour on health. These research priorities can help to guide decisions on future research directions.
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 09-2019
Abstract: Background : Homophily is the tendency to associate with friends similar to ourselves. This study explored the effects of homophily on team formation in a physical activity challenge in which “captains” signed up their Facebook friends to form teams. Methods : This study assessed whether participants (n = 430) were more similar to their teammates than to nonteammates with regard to age, sex, education level, body mass index, self-reported and objectively measured physical activity, and negative emotional states and whether captains were more similar to their own teammates than to nonteammates. Variability indices were calculated for each team, and a hypothetical variability index, representing that which would result from randomly assembled teams, was also calculated. Results : Within-team variability was less than that for random teams for all outcomes except education level and depression, with differences (SDs) ranging from +0.15 (self-reported physical activity) to +0.47 (age) ( P .001 to P = .001). Captains were similar to their teammates except in regard to age, with captains being 2.6 years younger ( P = .003). Conclusions : Results support hypotheses that self-selected teams are likely to contain in iduals with similar characteristics, highlighting potential to leverage team-based health interventions to target specific populations by instructing in iduals with risk characteristics to form teams to help change behavior.
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 02-2021
Abstract: Background : An international physical activity (PA) questionnaire is beneficial to make cross-country comparisons among children and adolescents. This study assesses the validity of the PA questions in the World Health Organization Health Behavior in School-Aged Children (WHO HBSC) survey in Japanese children and adolescents. Methods : Participants were fifth- to sixth-grade Japanese primary school students (67 students aged 10.8 [0.5] y) and first- to third-grade junior high school students (108 students aged 13.0 [0.7] y). The Japanese version of the PA questions in the WHO HBSC (WHO HBSC-J) was used. To assess the validity of the PA questions, the authors used a partial correlation adjusted for sex, age, and relative weight between the answers to the survey questions and objectively measured moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA) by an accelerometer. Results : A significant positive correlation was found between accelerometer-measured MVPA and the number of reported days with at least 60 minutes/day of MVPA in primary school students ( r = .39, P = .002) and junior high school students ( r = .32, P .001). Conclusion : The HBSC-J has moderate validity for evaluating MVPA in Japanese primary school and junior high school students.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 10-08-2020
DOI: 10.1111/OBR.13121
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 05-03-2020
DOI: 10.1111/MCN.12984
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2020
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2013
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 08-01-2013
DOI: 10.1038/IJO.2012.212
Abstract: To determine whether sleep timing behaviour is associated with energy intake and diet quality in children and adolescents. Cross-sectional analysis of nationally representative survey data. A total of 2200 participants of the 2007 Australian National Children's Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey aged 9-16 years with 2 days of food intake data, 4 days of use of time data and complete anthropometry. Participants were grouped into one of four sleep-wake behaviour categories: early bed-early rise (EE) early bed-late rise (EL) late bed-early rise (LE) and late bed-late rise (LL). The four categories were compared for body mass index (BMI) z-score, energy intake and diet quality assessed using the Dietary Guideline Index for Children and Adolescents. Analyses were adjusted for survey design, sociodemographic characteristics, sleep duration and physical activity level (PAL). In adjusted multivariate regression models with sleep timing behaviour group as the independent variable, the 'LL' category compared with the 'EE' category had a higher BMI z-score (β=0.20, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.06 to 0.34, P=0.007), and lower diet quality (β=-4.0, 95% CI -5.7 to -2.3, P<0.001). Children and adolescents who went to bed late also had a higher intake of extra foods (that is, energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods) while those whom went to bed early consumed more fruit and vegetables. Energy intake was associated with sleep duration (β=-4.5 kJ, 95% CI -6.7 to -2.4, P<0.001), but not sleep timing behaviour. Late bedtimes and late wake up times are associated with poorer diet quality, independent of sleep duration, PAL and child and sociodemographic characteristics.
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 04-2014
Abstract: The Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adults (MARCA) is a computerized recall instrument that records use of time during 24 hr the previous day and has been developed to address limitations of current self-report physical activity measures for those in advanced age. Test–retest reliability and convergent validity of the adult MARCA were assessed in a s le of 45 advanced-age adults (age 84.9 SD ± 1.62 yr) as a subs le of the Life and Living in Advanced-Age Cohort Study New Zealand (LiLACS NZ). Test–retest methods required participants to recall the previous day’s activity using the MARCA twice within the same day. Convergent validity was assessed against accelerometry. Test–retest reliability was high, with ICCs greater than .99 for moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and physical activity level (PAL). Compared with accelerometry, the MARCA demonstrated validity comparable to other self-report instruments with Spearman’s coefficients of .34 and .59 for time spent in nonsedentary physical activity and PAL. The MARCA is a valid and reliable self-report tool for physical activity behaviors in advanced-age adults.
Publisher: American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM)
Date: 15-07-2014
DOI: 10.5664/JCSM.3874
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2009
DOI: 10.1016/J.JSAMS.2008.09.009
Abstract: Children's physical activity (PA) patterns change from day to day. This intra-in idual variability affects precision when measuring key physical activity and sedentary behaviour variables. This paper discusses strategies used to reduce the random error associated with intra-in idual variability and demonstrates the implications for assessing PA when varying number of days are s led. Self-reported data collected on two hundred and ninety eight 13-14-year-olds were used to compare estimates of PA and sedentary behaviour derived from between 1 and 7 days of recall data. Large intra-in idual coefficients of variation were calculated for physical activity level (14.5%), moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (83.4%), screen time (60.8%) and sleep (12.2%). While the magnitude of error associated with estimating means decreased as more days were s led, the paper notes that depending on the nature of the research question being asked, s ling fewer days may yield sufficiently precise estimates. Therefore, researchers should conduct power analyses based on estimated inter- and intra-in idual variability and s le size to determine how many days to s le when assessing children's PA patterns.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 25-07-2020
DOI: 10.1080/15438627.2018.1502183
Abstract: Our aim was to identify the best anthropometric index associated with waist adiposity. The six weight-status indices included body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), waist-to-height ratio (WHTR), and a new waist-by-height
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2010.07.001
Abstract: Examine: (1) the anthropometric, socio-demographic and use-of-time characteristics of thin adolescents, and (2) compare these characteristics to other weight status categories. Data were from the 2007 National Children's Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey which collected data on a random s le of 2200 9 to 16 year old Australians from February to August 2007. Seven socio-demographic variables, anthropometric data (height and weight were measured) and nine use-of-time variables were used, and compared across the weight status categories. Physical activity was measured using pedometers and the Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adults. 5.3% of adolescents were classified as thin, a percentage which did not significantly vary by age, sex, indigenous status, household income, education level or family structure. Relative to other adolescents, thin adolescents were shorter and lighter. Thin adolescents were less active than their normal weight peers, but walked further and accumulated significantly less screen and TV time than obese adolescents. Thin adolescents were found in similar proportions across all socio-demographic bands. Thin adolescents recorded similar physical activity levels to their normal weight peers, but were more active than obese adolescents. The findings from the study support in part the theory of thinness related developmental delay.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 05-2010
DOI: 10.1080/02640411003645703
Abstract: The main aim of this study was to assess the effect of site location on various girth measurements by using a novel method of three-dimensional whole-body scanning. We also wished to identify interactions between distances from the criterion site (site variants), sex, and body mass index (BMI) categories. Two hundred participants were analysed across the sexes and all BMI categories. Girth measurements were extracted 5, 10, 15, and 20 mm distal and proximal to the criterion site. The criterion site was identified by an ISAK-accredited (Level 2) anthropometrist. Error was quantified using the technical error of measurement (TEM). A limit of TEM < or = 1.0% was applied when determining the practical significance of this error at each site location. Analysis of variance was used to determine the interaction effects between site variants, sex, and BMI categories. Post hoc analysis was completed using t-tests with sequential Bonferroni correction to identify where the significant differences occurred. We found that site location error can have a significant impact on various girth measurements. The magnitude of this error varies according to the girth measurement being taken, sex, and BMI. Special care should be applied when measuring girths on females, especially waist girths on lean females.
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 2016
Abstract: Little is known about the physical activity levels and behaviors of advanced age New Zealanders. A cross-sectional analysis of data from Life and Living in Advanced Age: A Cohort Study in New Zealand (LiLACS NZ), Te Puāwaitanga O Nga Tapuwae Kia ora Tonu, measures of physical activity (PASE) ( n = 664, aged 80–90 [ n = 254, Māori, aged 82.5(2), n = 410 non-Māori, aged 85(.5)]) was conducted to determine physical activity level (PAL). A substudy ( n = 45) was conducted to attain detailed information about PAL and behaviors via the Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adults (MARCA) and accelerometry. The main study was analyzed by sex for Māori and non-Māori. Men consistently had higher levels of physical activity than women for all physical activity measures. Sex was significant for different domains of activity.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 25-08-2016
DOI: 10.1002/OBY.21618
Abstract: Household factors (electronic media equipment, play equipment, physical activity in the home, and social support) have been associated with childhood moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA), but little is known about how these factors differ across erse countries. The objective was to explore household correlates of objective MVPA in children from 12 countries. Overall, 5,859 nine- to eleven-year-old children from 12 countries representing a range of human and socioeconomic development indicators wore an accelerometer for 7 days and parents reported on household factors. Multilevel general linear models explored associations among household factors and MVPA variables controlling for age, sex, and parental education. Across sites, children with at least one piece of bedroom electronic media had lower MVPA (∼4 min/day P < 0.001) than those who did not. More frequent physical activity in the home and yard, ownership of more frequently used play equipment, and higher social support for physical activity were associated with more MVPA (all P < 0.001). The association between play equipment ownership and MVPA was inconsistent across countries (interaction P < 0.01). With the exception of play equipment ownership, modifiable household factors showed largely consistent and important associations with MVPA across high-, mid-, and low-income countries.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 20-12-2013
DOI: 10.1007/S40279-012-0008-7
Abstract: The ActivityStat hypothesis suggests that when physical activity is increased or decreased in one domain, there will be a compensatory change in another domain, in order to maintain an overall stable level of physical activity or energy expenditure over time. The ActivityStat debate is gaining momentum in the literature and most of the research to date is based on observational studies. The objective of this paper is to conceptually clarify the ActivityStat hypothesis and to examine the experimental research aiming to demonstrate or refute compensation using a systematic review process. A systematic review was conducted using electronic database searches with the aim of detecting studies experimentally investigating the ActivityStat hypothesis or compensation in physical activity or energy expenditure. Included studies were critically appraised using a specifically designed tool to address the conceptual considerations of the ActivityStat hypothesis. Searches identified 28 studies that met the inclusion criteria. Publications spanned 26 years and had multiple methodological approaches, including randomized and non-randomized controlled trials, crossover designs, cluster randomized controlled trials and pre-post trials. Populations of the included studies ranged from children, to adults and the elderly, across a range of weight statuses and used both aerobic, resistance and mixed-exercise interventions. The timeframe of interventions ranged from 1 day to 4 years and outcomes were measured using doubly labelled water, accelerometry, heart rate monitoring, resting metabolic rate, indirect calorimetry, pedometry, subjective recall questionnaire and the activity-related time index. Fifteen of 28 included studies provided evidence of compensation, while 13 did not. Subgroup analyses by population, type and duration of intervention, weight status and study quality also showed mixed findings. There is a substantial body of experimental literature investigating compensation that has largely been overlooked in the ActivityStat debate. However, this evidence is currently inconclusive and lacks a cohesive approach to the question of an ActivityStat. Recommendations for the design of future experimental research investigating the ActivityStat hypothesis are presented.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 14-11-2019
DOI: 10.1186/S12966-019-0875-5
Abstract: Globally, the International Classification of Activities for Time-Use Statistics (ICATUS) is one of the most widely used time-use classifications to identify time spent in various activities. Comprehensive 24-h activities that can be extracted from ICATUS provide possible implications for the use of time-use data in relation to activity-health associations however, these activities are not classified in a way that makes such analysis feasible. This study, therefore, aimed to develop criteria for classifying ICATUS activities into sleep, sedentary behaviour (SB), light physical activity (LPA), and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), based on expert assessment. We classified activities from the Trial ICATUS 2005 and final ICATUS 2016. One author assigned METs and codes for wakefulness status and posture, to all subclass activities in the Trial ICATUS 2005. Once coded, one author matched the most detailed level of activities from the ICATUS 2016 with the corresponding activities in the Trial ICATUS 2005, where applicable. The assessment and harmonisation of each ICATUS activity were reviewed independently and anonymously by four experts, as part of a Delphi process. Given a large number of ICATUS activities, four separate Delphi panels were formed for this purpose. A series of Delphi survey rounds were repeated until a consensus among all experts was reached. Consensus about harmonisation and classification of ICATUS activities was reached by the third round of the Delphi survey in all four panels. A total of 542 activities were classified into sleep, SB, LPA, and MVPA categories. Of these, 390 activities were from the Trial ICATUS 2005 and 152 activities were from the final ICATUS 2016. The majority of ICATUS 2016 activities were harmonised into the ICATUS activity groups ( n = 143). Based on expert consensus, we developed a classification system that enables ICATUS-based time-use data to be classified into sleep, SB, LPA, and MVPA categories. Adoption and consistent use of this classification system will facilitate standardisation of time-use data processing for the purpose of sleep, SB and physical activity research, and improve between-study comparability. Future studies should test the applicability of the classification system by applying it to empirical data.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 07-06-2016
Abstract: the aim of this study was to explore the associations between use of time and momentary hedonic affect ('enjoyment') in adults in the peri-retirement period. a total of 124 adults [61 males, 63 females age 62 (4) years] completed a computerised use-of-time recall on 4 days at each of four time points (3-6 months pre-, 3, 6 and 12 months post-retirement), as well as surveys regarding self-reported health, well-being, sleep quality and loneliness. They reported how much they enjoyed each activity on a 0-10 scale. An in idual Enjoyment Index was calculated as the time-weighted average of each participant's enjoyment ratings. Time-weighted enjoyment ratings were also calculated for nine mutually exclusive and exhaustive activity domains (Sleep, Chores, Work, Social, Screen Time, Self-care, Quiet Time, Transport, Physical Activity) and sub-domains. the mean (±SD) Enjoyment Index was 7.43 ± 0.61, and was significantly and positively associated with well-being (P = 0.003 to P < 0.0001) and sleep quality (P = 0.03 to P < 0.0001), and negatively associated with loneliness (P = 0.003 to P < 0.0001). Mean Enjoyment Index values increased significantly (P < 0.0001) from pre-retirement (7.19 ± 0.82) to post-retirement (7.46 ± 0.89, 7.42 ± 0.91 and 7.49 ± 0.89 at 3, 6 and 12 months post-retirement). There were significant differences in enjoyment across domains, with Physical Activity (7.86 ± 1.11) and Social (7.66 ± 0.85) being the most enjoyable, and Work (7.10 ± 0.89) and Chores (7.09 ± 0.85) the least enjoyable. enjoyment of everyday activities increased after retirement and remained elevated for at least 12 months. Work appears to constitute a relative hedonic deficit.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 26-05-2016
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 08-2010
DOI: 10.3758/BRM.42.3.754
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.JSAMS.2016.04.013
Abstract: Choice of accelerometer wear-site may facilitate greater compliance in research studies. We aimed to test whether a simple method could automatically discriminate whether an accelerometer was worn on the hip or wrist from free-living data. Cross-sectional. Twenty-two 10-12y old children wore a GENEActiv at the wrist and at the hip for 7-days. The angle between the forearm and the total acceleration vector for the wrist-worn monitor and between the pelvis and the total acceleration vector for the hip-worn monitor (i.e. the angle between the Y-axis component of the acceleration and the total acceleration vector) was calculated for each 5s epoch. The standard deviation of this angle (SDangle) was calculated over time for the wrist-worn and hip-worn monitor for windows of varying lengths. We hypothesised that the wrist angle would be more variable than the hip angle. Wear site could be discriminated based on SDangle the shorter the time window the lower the optimal threshold and Area under the Receiver-Operating-Characteristic curve (AUROC) for discrimination of wear-site (AUROC=0.833 (1min) - 0.952 (12h)). Classification accuracy was good for windows of 8min (sensitivity=90%, specificity=87%, AUROC=0.92) and plateaued for windows of ≥60min (sensitivity and specificity >90%, AUROC=0.95-0.96). We have presented a robust, computationally simple method that detects whether an accelerometer is being worn on the hip or wrist from 8 to 60min of data. This facilitates the use of wear-site specific algorithms to analyse accelerometer data.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 06-11-2014
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 25-10-2023
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 06-2014
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2023
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 12-08-2021
Abstract: One size rarely fits all in population health. Differing outcomes may compete for best allocations of time. Among children aged 11–12 years, we aimed to (1) describe optimal 24-hour time use for erse physical, cognitive/academic and well-being outcomes, (2) pinpoint the ‘Goldilocks Day’ that optimises all outcomes and (3) develop a tool to customise time-use recommendations. In 2004, the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children recruited a nationally-representative cohort of 5107 infants with biennial follow-up waves. We used data from the cross-sectional Child Health CheckPoint module (2015–2016, n=1874, 11–12 years, 51% males). Time use was from 7-day 24-hour accelerometry. Outcomes included life satisfaction, psychosocial health, depressive symptoms, emotional problems, non-verbal IQ vocabulary, academic performance, adiposity, fitness, blood pressure, inflammatory biomarkers, bone strength. Relationships between time use and outcomes were modelled using compositional regression. Optimal daily durations varied widely for different health outcomes (sleep: 8.3–11.4 hours sedentary: 7.3–12.2 hours light physical activity: 1.7–5.1 hours moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA): 0.3–2.7 hours, all models p≤0.04). In general, days with highest physical activity (predominantly MVPA) and low sedentary time were optimal for physical health, while days with highest sleep and lowest sedentary time were optimal for mental health. Days with highest sedentary time and lowest physical activity were optimal for cognitive health. The overall Goldilocks Day had 10 hours 21 min sleep, 9 hours 44 min sedentary time, 2 hours 26 min light physical activity and 1 hour 29 min MVPA. Our interactive interface allows personalisation of Goldilocks Days to an in idual’s outcome priorities. ‘Goldilocks Days’ necessitate compromises based on hierarchies of priorities for health, social and economic outcomes.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 04-06-2026
Abstract: The incidence of infectious complications, compared with the general population and the pre-transplant status of the recipient, increases substantially following kidney transplantation, causing significant morbidity and mortality. The potent immunosuppressive therapy given to prevent graft rejection in kidney transplant recipients results in an increased susceptibility to a wide range of opportunistic infections including bacterial, viral and fungal infections. Over the last five years, several advances have occurred that may have changed the burden of infectious complications in kidney transplant recipients. Due to the availability of direct-acting antivirals to manage donor-derived hepatitis C infection, this has opened the way for donors with hepatitis C infection to be considered in the donation process. In addition, there have been the development of medications targeting the growing burden of resistant cytomegalovirus, as well as the discovery of the potentially important role of the gastrointestinal microbiota in the pathogenesis of post-transplant infection. In this narrative review, we will discuss these three advances and their potential implications for clinical practice.
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2012
DOI: 10.1071/PY11115
Abstract: Adolescents engage in a complex range of low energy-consuming and active behaviours not easily captured by single behavioural measures. This study aims to describe the associations among adolescent active and low energy behaviours. Data were obtained from adolescents aged 12–16 years (n = 1532) participating in a nationally representative survey. Thirty-nine variables measuring activities were stratified by sex and age and then analysed using principal components analysis with Varimax rotation. Four components were derived for younger girls (21.7% of the variance) and younger boys (20.2%), six for older girls (29.7%) and five for older boys (25.6%). Academic-related behaviours positively correlated with each other and negatively with television use for all age–sex groups. Computer use correlated positively with academic-related behaviours for older boys but negatively with active behaviours for younger boys and girls. Active behaviours correlated positively with each other. For older girls, low energy expenditure, household-based behaviours were negatively correlated with active behaviours. Computer use appears to differ across age groups, and leisure and academic use should be differentiated. The positive associations among different active behaviours and their negative associations with home-based, low energy expenditure behaviours are of interest for intervention development.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 31-07-2023
DOI: 10.1186/S12889-023-16277-4
Abstract: Obesity is a growing, global public health issue. This study aimed to describe the weight management strategies used by a s le of Australian adults examine the socio-demographic characteristics of using each strategy and examine whether use of each strategy was associated with 12-month weight change. This observational study involved a community-based s le of 375 healthy adults (mean age: 40.1 ± 5.8 years, 56.8% female). Participants wore a Fitbit activity monitor, weighed themselves daily, and completed eight online surveys on socio-demographic characteristics. Participants also recalled their use of weight management strategies over the past month, at 8 timepoints during the 12-month study period. Most participants (81%) reported using at least one weight management strategy, with exercise hysical activity being the most common strategy at each timepoint (40–54%). Those who accepted their current bodyweight were less likely to use at least one weight management strategy (Odds ratio = 0.38, 95% CI = 0.22–0.64, p 0.01) and those who reported being physically active for weight maintenance had a greater reduction in bodyweight, than those who did not (between group difference: -1.2 kg, p 0.01). The use of supplements and fasting were associated with poorer mental health and quality of life outcomes (p 0.01). The use of weight management strategies appears to be common. Being physically active was associated with greater weight loss. In iduals who accepted their current body weight were less likely to use weight management strategies. Fasting and the use of supplements were associated with poorer mental health. Promoting physical activity as a weight management strategy appears important, particularly considering its multiple health benefits.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 27-12-2016
DOI: 10.1111/IJPO.12196
Abstract: The relationship between children's adiposity and lifestyle behaviour patterns is an area of growing interest. The objectives of this study are to identify clusters of children based on lifestyle behaviours and compare children's adiposity among clusters. Cross-sectional data from the International Study of Childhood Obesity, Lifestyle and the Environment were used. the participants were children (9-11 years) from 12 nations (n = 5710). 24-h accelerometry and self-reported diet and screen time were clustering input variables. Objectively measured adiposity indicators were waist-to-height ratio, percent body fat and body mass index z-scores. sex-stratified analyses were performed on the global s le and repeated on a site-wise basis. Cluster analysis (using isometric log ratios for compositional data) was used to identify common lifestyle behaviour patterns. Site representation and adiposity were compared across clusters using linear models. Four clusters emerged: (1) Junk Food Screenies, (2) Actives, (3) Sitters and (4) All-Rounders. Countries were represented differently among clusters. Chinese children were over-represented in Sitters and Colombian children in Actives. Adiposity varied across clusters, being highest in Sitters and lowest in Actives. Children from different sites clustered into groups of similar lifestyle behaviours. Cluster membership was linked with differing adiposity. Findings support the implementation of activity interventions in all countries, targeting both physical activity and sedentary time.
Publisher: Georg Thieme Verlag KG
Date: 11-2000
DOI: 10.1055/S-2000-8479
Abstract: Departures from perfect bilateral symmetry are thought to mirror an organism's ability to maintain developmental homeostasis. There is evidence showing that symmetry is negatively correlated with evolutionary and physical fitness. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between symmetry and health-related physiological characteristics in males and females. Forty-six male and female subjects participated in this study. Both facial and anthropometric traits were investigated for deviations from perfect bilateral symmetry. After measurements were made the subjects were tested on a range of physiological variables. There was no pattern of consistent significant correlations between fluctuating asymmetry and the physiological variables across all traits, and poor inter-correlations between the fluctuating asymmetries measured at different sites. The study failed to confirm the hypothesis that symmetric in iduals were physiologically fitter when compared to their asymmetric counterparts.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-02-2021
DOI: 10.1186/S12966-021-01095-X
Abstract: The Structured Days Hypothesis (SDH) posits that children’s behaviors associated with obesity – such as physical activity – are more favorable on days that contain more ‘structure’ (i.e., a pre-planned, segmented, and adult-supervised environment) such as school weekdays, compared to days with less structure, such as weekend days. The purpose of this study was to compare children’s moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) levels on weekdays versus weekend days using a large, multi-country, accelerometer-measured physical activity dataset. Data were received from the International Children’s Accelerometer Database (ICAD) July 2019. The ICAD inclusion criteria for a valid day of wear, only non-intervention data (e.g., baseline intervention data), children with at least 1 weekday and 1 weekend day, and ICAD studies with data collected exclusively during school months, were included for analyses. Mixed effects models accounting for the nested nature of the data (i.e., days within children) assessed MVPA minutes per day (min/day MVPA) differences between weekdays and weekend days by region/country, adjusted for age, sex, and total wear time. Separate meta-analytical models explored differences by age and country/region for sex and child weight-status. Valid data from 15 studies representing 5794 children (61% female, 10.7 ± 2.1 yrs., 24% with overweight/obesity) and 35,263 days of valid accelerometer data from 5 distinct countries/regions were used. Boys and girls accumulated 12.6 min/day (95% CI: 9.0, 16.2) and 9.4 min/day (95% CI: 7.2, 11.6) more MVPA on weekdays versus weekend days, respectively. Children from mainland Europe had the largest differences (17.1 min/day more MVPA on weekdays versus weekend days, 95% CI: 15.3, 19.0) compared to the other countries/regions. Children who were classified as overweight/obese or normal weight/underweight accumulated 9.5 min/day (95% CI: 6.9, 12.2) and 10.9 min/day (95% CI: 8.3, 13.5) of additional MVPA on weekdays versus weekend days, respectively. Children from multiple countries/regions accumulated significantly more MVPA on weekdays versus weekend days during school months. This finding aligns with the SDH and warrants future intervention studies to prioritize less-structured days, such as weekend days, and to consider providing opportunities for all children to access additional opportunities to be active.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.ACAP.2016.12.014
Abstract: There is growing concern that rising rates of electronic media use might be harmful. However, the extent to which different types of electronic media use might be associated with emotional and behavioral problems is unclear. In this study we examined associations between emotional and behavioral problems and electronic media use during late childhood, in a large community s le. Participants were 876 8- to 9-year-old children taking part in the Childhood to Adolescence Transition Study in Australia. Parents reported on their child's emotional and behavioral problems using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire and on their child's duration of electronic media use (in hours: television, video games, general computer use). Logistic regression analyses were conducted with adjustments for age, socioeconomic status, and body mass index z score, separately for male and female participants. Boys who played more video games had significantly greater odds of scoring borderline/abnormal on conduct (odds ratio [OR], 1.07 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.02-1.12) and emotional problems (OR, 1.07 95% CI, 1.04-1.11) for each additional hour of weekly use. This equates to 2.58-fold greater odds for a boy who plays on average 2 hours per day per week. Television viewing was associated with greater odds of hyperactivity/inattention in boys (OR, 1.04 95% CI, 1.00-1.07). There were no significant relationships for girls. Because of the increasing rates of electronic media use in children, these results might have important implications for child mental health. Future interventions might be more effective if they are targeted at specific types of electronic media use.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 30-04-2018
DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2018.1470373
Abstract: The ability to compare published group-level estimates of objectively measured moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) across studies continues to increase in difficulty. The objective of this study was to develop conversion equations and demonstrate their utility to compare estimates of MVPA derived from the wrist and hip. Three studies of youth (N = 232, 9-12yrs, 50% boys) concurrently wore a hip-worn ActiGraph and a wrist-worn GENEActiv for 7-days. ActiGraph hip count data were reduced using four established cutpoints. Wrist accelerations were reduced using the Hildebrand MVPA 200 mg threshold. Conversion equations were developed on a randomly selected subs le of 132 youth. Equations were cross-validated and absolute error, absolute percent error, and modified Bland-Altman plots were evaluated for conversion accuracy. Across equations R
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 27-03-2015
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 28-11-2017
DOI: 10.1038/S41598-017-16525-9
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to describe children’s daily compliance with moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) recommendations across a week in different parts of the world, and to identify in idual- and school-level correlates that may explain differences in daily MVPA compliance. The s le included 6553 children aged 9–11 years from 12 countries, and multilevel statistical analyses were used, including both child- and school-level variables. Most children did not comply with the MVPA guidelines on a daily basis: Chinese children complied the least, whereas Finnish, Australian, Colombian, UK, and Kenyan children complied the most. Boys (rate ratio [RR] = 1.47) and children with higher unhealthy diet scores (RR = 1.08) complied more, but overweight/obese children (RR = 0.81), earlier maturing children (RR = 0.93), and those who spent more time in screen activities (RR = 0.98) and sleeping (RR = 0.96) had the lowest compliance. At the school level, children with access to playground or sport equipment (RR = 0.88, for both) tended to comply less, whereas those with access to a gymnasium outside the school hours complied more with the MVPA guidelines (RR = 1.14). Significant between-country differences in children’s daily MVPA compliance were observed, reflecting not only site characteristics, but also the importance of in idual traits and local school contexts.
Publisher: Active Healthy Kids Australia
Date: 2018
Start Date: 2024
End Date: 2027
Funder: Marsden Fund
View Funded Activity