ORCID Profile
0000-0002-4445-8094
Current Organisation
Central Queensland University
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In Research Link Australia (RLA), "Research Topics" refer to ANZSRC FOR and SEO codes. These topics are either sourced from ANZSRC FOR and SEO codes listed in researchers' related grants or generated by a large language model (LLM) based on their publications.
Labour Economics | Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety | Health, Clinical and Counselling Psychology | Health Promotion | Biological Psychology (Neuropsychology, Psychopharmacology, Physiological Psychology) | Psychology | Public Health and Health Services |
Behaviour and Health | Productivity (excl. Public Sector) | Expanding Knowledge in Psychology and Cognitive Sciences | Occupational Health
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.SLEH.2018.06.002
Abstract: Insufficient sleep is being increasingly recognized as a public health issue. There is a need to identify correlates of insufficient sleep to guide future preventative health interventions. This study aims to determine the sociodemographic and behavioral correlates of frequent perceived insufficient sleep in the Australian population. Pooled analyses of two cross-sectional, self-report national telephone surveys were conducted in 2015 (July-August) and 2016 (June-August). Adults living in Australia. Data from participants (age 18 years and over) of both surveys were pooled for analysis (2015 n = 1041 2016 n = 1170), with 2211 participants being included in the current study. Participants self-reported their age, gender, education and employment level, language spoken at home, urbanization, chronic disease, and height and weight to calculate BMI. Self-reported physical activity, sitting time, smoking, and consumption of fruit, vegetables, fast food, alcohol and frequency of perceived insufficient sleep were also assessed. Binary logistic regression analysis examined the relationship between insufficient sleep (≥14 days out of 30), sociodemographic and behavioral variables. The overall prevalence of insufficient sleep was 24%. Female gender, obesity, >8 h/d sitting time, smoking, and frequent consumption of fast food were positively associated with frequent insufficient sleep (P < .05). Higher levels of physical activity and being aged 51 years or older were negatively associated with frequent insufficient sleep (P < .05). The sociodemographic and behavioral characteristics associated with frequent perceived insufficient sleep can be used to guide the development of future interventions to reduce sleep insufficiency.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 09-01-2019
DOI: 10.1080/15402002.2016.1266489
Abstract: Many young adults obtain less than the recommended sleep duration for healthy and safe functioning. Behavior change interventions have had only moderate success in increasing sleep duration for this cohort. This may be because the way young adults think about sleep, including their willingness and ability to change sleep behavior, is unknown. The purpose of the present study was to determine what changes, if any, young adults are willing to make to their sleep behavior, and to identify factors that may enable or prevent these changes. Fifty-seven young adults (16-25 years 57% female) took part in focus groups addressing (a) willingness to change, (b) desired outcomes of change, and (c) barriers to change in regards to sleep behavior. An inductive approach to data analysis was employed, involving data immersion, coding, categorization, and theme generation. Participants were willing to change sleep behavior, and had previously employed strategies including advancing bedtime and minimizing phone use, with limited success. Desired changes were improved waking function, advanced sleep onset, optimized sleep periods, and improved sleep habits. Barriers to making these changes included time demands, technology use, difficulty switching off, and unpredictable habits. Young adults want to improve sleep behavior and waking function this is an important first step in modifying behavior. Notably, participants wanted more efficient and better quality sleep, rather than increasing sleep duration. The reported barriers to sleep, particularly using technology for social purposes, will require innovative and specialized strategies if they are to be overcome.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 06-2022
DOI: 10.1136/BMJRESP-2022-001221
Abstract: A new smartphone app (QUT Inspire) has been developed to detect inspiratory sound and deliver virtual incentive spirometry (ISy), a respiratory therapy technique used in postoperative recuperation, management of some chronic conditions and with potential applications in SARS-CoV-2 rehabilitation. The aim of this study was to compare the usability of this new app with a clinical ISy device as measured by effectiveness, efficiency and satisfaction. In this mixed-methods randomised usability study, healthy volunteers (aged 39.2±12.2 years, n=24) compared inspirations using the QUT Inspire app and a Triflo II clinical ISy device. A post-test questionnaire and a semi-structured interview explored dimensions of usability regarding the new app. The duration of inspirations performed using the QUT Inspire app (7.3±2.0 s) were comparable with use of the Triflo II ISy device (7.5±2.3 s). No artefacts arising from the order of device testing were identified. App users held their phones adjacent but not proximal to their mouths (13.6±6.4 cm), notwithstanding instructions to keep the phone less than 5 cm away for optimal breath sound detection. The use of onscreen text or video instructional materials did not result in a significant reduction in this distance. Participants reported clear preferences for the app (100%, n=24) to motivate persistence with repeated inspirations. App gamification features such as a timer (75%, n=18) and breath counter (83.3%, n=20) were well regarded. Analysis of semi-structured interviews identified four main themes arising from this study: visual reward from responsive app animations, clinical look and feel influencing credibility, perceived effort affecting engagement and selective adoption of gamification features. This study demonstrates that a virtual ISy app can be effective, efficient and have high satisfaction. Improvements informed by this research include use of additional phone sensors to optimise sound detection and minimising the distance that phones are held from the user’s mouth. Further research in randomised controlled trials are needed to evaluate performance of this app in clinical contexts where ISy is currently employed.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 07-11-2017
DOI: 10.1007/S10865-017-9899-Y
Abstract: This study aimed to examine older adults' physical activity intentions and preferred implementation intentions, and how intentions and preferred implementation intentions differ between older, middle aged and younger adults. A cross-sectional Australian wide telephone survey of 1217 respondents was conducted in 2016. Multiple and ordinal regression analyses were conducted to compare intentions and preferred implementation intentions between older (65 +), middle aged (45-64) and younger adults (< 45). A higher percentage of older adults had no intentions to engage in regular physical activity within the next 6 months (60%) compared to younger adults (25%). Older adults' most popular preferences included being active at least once a day and for 30 min or less and were more likely to prefer more frequent and shorter sessions compared to younger adults. Both older and middle aged adults were more likely to prefer slower paced physical activity compared to younger adults who preferred fast paced physical activity. Physical activity interventions for older adults should address the high percentage of older adults with no intentions and public health c aigns for older adults should promote 30 min daily sessions of slow paced activity.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 20-10-2020
Abstract: (1) Background: Interventions using activity trackers and smartphone apps have demonstrated their ability to increase physical activity in children and adults. However, they have not been tested in whole families. Further, few family-centered interventions have actively involved both parents and assessed physical activity effects separately for children, mothers and fathers. Objective: To examine the feasibility and short-term effects of an activity tracker and app intervention to increase physical activity in the whole family (children, mothers and fathers). (2) Methods: This was a single-arm feasibility study with pre-post intervention measures. Between 2017–2018, 40 families (58 children aged 6–10 years, 39 mothers, 33 fathers) participated in the 6-week Step it Up Family program in Queensland, Australia. Using commercial activity trackers combined with apps (Garmin Vivofit Jr for children, Vivofit 3 for adults Garmin Australasia Pty Ltd., Sydney, Australia), the intervention included in idual and family-level goal-setting, self-monitoring, performance feedback, family step challenges, family social support and modelling, weekly motivational text messages and an introductory session. Parent surveys were used to assess physical activity effects measured as pre-post intervention changes in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in children, mothers and fathers. Objective Garmin activity tracker data was recorded to assess physical activity levels (steps, active minutes) during the intervention. (3) Results: Thirty-eight families completed the post intervention survey (95% retention). At post intervention, MVPA had increased in children by 58 min/day (boys: 54 min/day, girls: 62 min/day all p 0.001). In mothers, MVPA increased by 27 min/day (p 0.001) and in fathers, it increased by 31 min/day (p 0.001). The percentage of children meeting Australia’s physical activity guidelines for children (≥60 MVPA min/day) increased from 34% to 89% (p 0.001). The percentage of mothers and fathers meeting Australia’s physical activity guidelines for adults (≥150 MVPA min/week) increased from 8% to 57% (p 0.001) in mothers and from 21% to 68% (p 0.001) in fathers. The percentage of families with ‘at least one child and both parents’ meeting the physical activity guidelines increased from 0% to 41% (p 0.001). Objective activity tracker data recorded during the intervention showed that the mean (SD) number of active minutes per day in children was 82.1 (17.1). Further, the mean (SD) steps per day was 9590.7 (2425.3) in children, 7397.5 (1954.2) in mothers and 8161.7 (3370.3) in fathers. (4) Conclusions: Acknowledging the uncontrolled study design, the large pre-post changes in MVPA and rather high step counts recorded during the intervention suggest that an activity tracker and app intervention can increase physical activity in whole families. The Step it Up Family program warrants further efficacy testing in a larger, randomized controlled trial.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 20-03-2017
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 16-10-2013
Abstract: Despite the numerous health benefits, population physical activity levels are low and declining with age. A continued increase of Internet access allows for website-delivered interventions to be implemented across age-groups, though older people have typically not been considered for this type of intervention. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate a website-delivered computer-tailored physical activity intervention, with a specific focus on differences in tailored advice acceptability, website usability, and physical activity change between three age-groups. To mimic “real-life” conditions, the intervention, which provided personalized physical activity feedback delivered via the Internet, was implemented and evaluated without any personal contact for the entire duration of the study. Data were collected online at baseline, 1-week, and 1-month follow-up and analyzed for three age-groups (≤44, 45-59, and ≥60 years) using linear mixed models. Overall, 803 adults received the intervention and 288 completed all measures. The oldest age-group increased physical activity more than the other two groups, spent the most time on the website, though had significantly lower perceived Internet self-confidence scores when compared with the youngest age-group. No differences were found in terms of website usability and tailored advice acceptability. These results suggest that website-delivered physical activity interventions can be suitable and effective for older aged adults.
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: 12-01-2018
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2022
DOI: 10.1177/20552076221129083
Abstract: This study examined the feasibility of an activity tracker and app intervention to increase physical activity in whole families. This was a single-arm feasibility study with pre–post-intervention measures. Between 2017 and 2018, 40 families (58 children aged 6–10 years, 39 mothers, 33 fathers) participated in the 6-week Step it Up Family programme in Queensland, Australia. It was delivered using Garmin activity trackers and apps, weekly motivational text messages and an introductory session. Online surveys and semi-structured interviews conducted with parents assessed intervention usage, acceptability, usability, perceived usefulness, use of physical activity self-management strategies and programme influence. Analyses included descriptive statistics, Wilcoxon signed-rank test and qualitative content analysis. Overall, 38 families completed the post-intervention survey (95% family retention 90% children, 95% mothers, 88% fathers). Garmin activity tracker usage was high (i.e. nearly 24/7 during the 6 weeks intervention). Families also used the Garmin apps regularly (i.e. mostly 2–6 times per week). Further, 80% of mothers and 52% of fathers read the motivational mobile text messages. Usability and perceived usefulness of the Garmin activity trackers and apps were rated high. Both parents significantly increased their use of physical activity self-management strategies from pre to post-intervention. Parents expressed that the intervention had increased awareness of physical (in)activity in the family, encouraged to be active and promoted outdoor family activities. Using activity trackers and apps to increase physical activity in the whole family was well received by children and parents which suggests that this intervention approach is feasible. However, further testing is needed amongst more erse family populations. These early findings support the implementation of a randomised controlled trial to examine intervention efficacy.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 13-11-2013
DOI: 10.2196/JMIR.2588
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.HLC.2012.11.005
Abstract: Interventions that facilitate access to cardiac rehabilitation and secondary prevention programs are in demand. This pilot study used a mixed methods design to evaluate the feasibility of an Internet-based, electronic Outpatient Cardiac Rehabilitation (eOCR). Patients who had suffered a cardiac event and their case managers were recruited from rural primary practices. Feasibility was evaluated in terms of the number of patients enrolled and patient and case manager engagement with the eOCR website. Four rural general practices, 16 health professionals (cardiologists, general practitioners, nurses and allied health) and 24 patients participated in the project and 11 (46%) completed the program. Utilisation of the website during the 105 day evaluation period by participating health professionals was moderate to low (mean of 8.25 logins, range 0-28 logins). The mean login rate for patients was 16 (range 1-77 logins), mean time from first login to last (days using the website) was 51 (range 1-105 days). Each patient monitored at least five risk factors and read at least one of the secondary prevention articles. There was low utilisation of other tools such as weekly workbooks and discussion boards. It was important to evaluate how an eOCR website would be used within an existing healthcare setting. These results will help to guide the implementation of future internet based cardiac rehabilitation programs considering barriers such as access and appropriate target groups of participants.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 22-05-2018
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 07-2016
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 03-02-2020
DOI: 10.2196/16741
Abstract: More than a million health and well-being apps are available from the Apple and Google app stores. Some apps use built-in mobile phone sensors to generate health data. Clinicians and patients can find information regarding safe and effective mobile health (mHealth) apps in third party–curated mHealth app libraries. These independent Web-based repositories guide app selection from trusted lists, but do they offer apps using ubiquitous, low-cost smartphone sensors to improve health? This study aimed to identify the types of built-in mobile phone sensors used in apps listed on curated health app libraries, the range of health conditions these apps address, and the cross-platform availability of the apps. This systematic survey reviewed three such repositories (National Health Service Apps Library, AppScript, and MyHealthApps), assessing the availability of apps using built-in mobile phone sensors for the diagnosis or treatment of health conditions. A total of 18 such apps were identified and included in this survey, representing 1.1% (8/699) to 3% (2/76) of all apps offered by the respective libraries examined. About one-third (7/18, 39%) of the identified apps offered cross-platform Apple and Android versions, with a further 50% (9/18) only dedicated to Apple and 11% (2/18), to Android. About one-fourth (4/18, 22%) of the identified apps offered dedicated diagnostic functions, with a majority featuring therapeutic (9/18, 50%) or combined functionality (5/18, 28%). Cameras, touch screens, and microphones were the most frequently used built-in sensors. Health concerns addressed by these apps included respiratory, dermatological, neurological, and anxiety conditions. Diligent mHealth app library curation, medical device regulation constraints, and cross-platform differences in mobile phone sensor architectures may all contribute to the observed limited availability of mHealth apps using built-in phone sensors in curated mHealth app libraries. However, more efforts are needed to increase the number of such apps on curated lists, as they offer easily accessible low-cost options to assist people in managing clinical conditions.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 03-2017
Publisher: Springer International Publishing
Date: 08-12-2013
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 25-01-2021
DOI: 10.2196/23946
Abstract: Physical activity is an important health behavior, due to its association with many physical and mental health conditions. During distressing events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a concern that physical activity levels may be negatively impacted. However, recent studies have shown inconsistent results. Additionally, there is a lack of studies in Australia on this topic. The aim of this study is to investigate changes in physical activity reported through the 10,000 Steps program and changes in engagement with the program during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data between January 1, 2018, and June 30, 2020, from registered members of the 10,000 Steps program, which included 3,548,825 days with step data, were used. The number of daily steps were logged manually by the members or synced automatically from their activity trackers connected to the program. Measures on program usage were the number of new registered members per day, the number of newly registered organizations per day, the number of steps logged per day, and the number of step entries per day. Key dates used for comparison were as follows: the first case with symptoms in Wuhan, China the first case reported in Australia the implementation of a 14-day ban for noncitizens arriving in Australia from China the start of the lockdown in Australia and the relaxing of restrictions by the Australian Government. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used to test for significant differences in number of steps between subgroups, between engagement measures in 2019 versus 2020, and before and after an event. A decrease in steps was observed after the first case in Australia was reported (1.5% P=.02) and after the start of the lockdown (3.4% P .001). At the time that the relaxing of restrictions started, the steps had already recovered from the lockdown. Additionally, the trends were consistent across genders and age groups. New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory, and Victoria had the greatest step reductions, with decreases of 7.0% (P .001), 6.2% (P=.02), and 4.7% (P .001), respectively. During the lockdown, the use of the program increased steeply. On the peak day, there were more than 9000 step entries per day, with nearly 100 million steps logged per day in addition, more than 450 new users and more than 15 new organizations registered per day, although the numbers decreased quickly when restrictions were relaxed. On average per day, there were about 55 new registered users (P .001), 2 new organizations (P .001), 25.6 million steps (P .001), and 2672 log entries (P .001) more in 2020 compared to the same period in 2019. The pandemic has had negative effects on steps among Australians across age groups and genders. However, the effect was relatively small, with steps recovering quickly after the lockdown. There was a large increase in program usage during the pandemic, which might help minimize the health impact of the lockdown and confirms the important role of physical activity programs during times of distress and lockdowns.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 05-2003
DOI: 10.1093/HER/CYF027
Abstract: This study investigated the feasibility and acceptability of a new computer-tailored intervention promoting physical activity in a general population, and explored if there are differences in the reported feasibility and acceptability between stages of change, gender, age groups, education levels and familiarity with computer use. The computer-tailored intervention program consists of questionnaires concerning demographics, physical activity and psychosocial determinants, leading to a 'physical activity advice' and an 'action plan'. This feedback was constructed taking the stages of change into account, at content level as well as in the way participants were approached. One hundred and ninety-two participants, between 25 and 55 years of age, ran through the tailored materials, and completed an acceptability and feasibility questionnaire afterwards. This questionnaire contained feasibility and acceptability questions about all the intervention aspects: intervention questions, physical activity advice, action plan and computer use. High acceptability and feasibility scores were found for all intervention parts. Only a few significant differences in acceptability and feasibility scores between stages of change, gender, age groups, education levels and familiarity with computer use were found. These results suggest that this computer-tailored intervention is an acceptable and feasible tool for promoting physical activity for respondents having different stages of change, ages, gender, education levels and computer use.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 13-11-2017
DOI: 10.2196/JMIR.8484
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 04-09-2018
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 11-12-2019
Abstract: nterventions using activity trackers and smartphone apps have demonstrated their ability to increase physical activity in children and adults. However, they have not been tested in entire families. Further, few family-centred interventions have actively involved both parents, and assessed intervention efficacy separately for children, mothers and fathers. his study aimed to examine the short-term efficacy of an activity tracker and app intervention to increase physical activity in the entire family (children, mothers and fathers). his was a pilot single-arm intervention study with pre-post measures. Between 2017-2018, 40 families (58 children aged 6-10 years, 39 mothers, 33 fathers) participated in the 6-week Step it Up Family program in Queensland, Australia. Using commercial activity trackers combined with apps (Garmin Vivofit Jr for children, Vivofit 3 for adults), the intervention included in idual and family-level goal-setting, self-monitoring, performance feedback, family step challenges, family social support and modelling, weekly motivational text messages, and an introductory session delivered face-to-face or via telephone. Parent surveys were used to assess intervention efficacy measured as pre-post intervention changes in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in children, mothers and fathers. hirty-eight families completed the post intervention survey (95% retention). At post intervention, MVPA had increased in children by 58 min/day (boys: 54 min/day, girls: 62 min/day all P .001). In mothers, MVPA increased by 27 min/day (P .001), and in fathers, it increased by 31 min/day (P .001). Furthermore, the percentage of children meeting Australia’s physical activity guidelines for children (≥60 MVPA min/day) increased from 34% to 89% (P .001). The percentage of mothers and fathers meeting Australia’s physical activity guidelines for adults (≥150 MVPA min/week) increased from 8% to 57% (P .001) in mothers, and from 21% to 68% (P .001) in fathers. indings suggest that an activity tracker and app intervention is an efficacious approach to increasing physical activity in entire families to meet national physical activity guidelines. The Step it Up Family program warrants further testing in a larger, randomised controlled trial to determine its long-term impact. o trial registration as this is not an RCT. It is a pilot single-arm intervention study
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 03-2015
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 10-2018
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2018-026179
Abstract: Traditional behavioural weight loss trials targeting improvements in physical activity and diet are modestly effective. It has been suggested that sleep may have a role in weight loss and maintenance. Improving sleep health in combination with physical activity and dietary behaviours may be one strategy to enhance traditional behavioural weight loss trials. Yet the efficacy of a weight loss intervention concurrently targeting improvements in physical activity, dietary and sleep behaviours remains to be tested. The primary aim of this three-arm randomised controlled trial is to examine the efficacy of a multicomponent m-Health behaviour change weight loss intervention relative to a waitlist control group. The secondary aims are to compare the relative efficacy of a physical activity, dietary behaviour and sleep intervention (enhanced intervention), compared with a physical activity and dietary behaviour only intervention (traditional intervention), on the primary outcome of weight loss and secondary outcomes of waist circumference, glycated haemoglobin, physical activity, diet quality and intake, sleep health, eating behaviours, depression, anxiety and stress and quality of life. Assessments will be conducted at baseline, 6 months (primary endpoint) and 12 months (follow-up). The multicomponent m-Health intervention will be delivered using a smartphone/tablet ‘app’, supplemented with email and SMS and in idualised in-person dietary counselling. Participants will receive a Fitbit, body weight scales to facilitate self-monitoring, and use the app to access educational material, set goals, self-monitor and receive feedback about behaviours. Generalised linear models using an analysis of covariance (baseline adjusted) approach will be used to identify between-group differences in primary and secondary outcomes, following an intention-to-treat principle. The Human Research Ethics Committee of The University of Newcastle Australia provided approval: H-2017–0039. Findings will be disseminated via publication in peer-reviewed journals, conference presentations, community presentations and student theses. ACTRN12617000735358 UTN1111-1219-2050.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 24-06-2017
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 12-06-2014
DOI: 10.2196/JMIR.3107
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2007
DOI: 10.1016/J.PEC.2007.01.003
Abstract: To evaluate acceptability, feasibility and effectiveness of computer-tailored physical activity education among adolescents. Two classes of 7th graders from 10 randomly selected schools were assigned to the intervention (computer-tailored intervention, n=139) or control (no-intervention, n=142) condition. Questionnaires were completed 1 week before and 3 months after the intervention. The computer-tailored intervention was completed during classes. Students had few problems with the diagnostic questions and with the use of a computer. About half of the students evaluated the advice as interesting and easy to understand and about 40% as personally relevant, easy to use and credible. Half of students evaluated the advice as too long and only 33% reported to have used the advice. The computer-tailored intervention was effective for increasing school related physical activity levels with on average 25 min per week (F=3.4, P < or = .05), but not for increasing total physical activity or leisure time physical activity. A 1-h computer-tailored intervention offered during class-time has the potential to increase school related physical activity. Although favourable effects of large scale implementation may be expected, some adaptations that might increase effectiveness should be investigated in the future.
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 11-01-2018
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2014
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2022
DOI: 10.1177/20552076221139091
Abstract: Diet-related apps and websites are developed to help improve dietary intake. The aim of this study is to explore the use and acceptability of diet-related apps and websites in Australia. In a cross-sectional study, 241 participants (mean age = 40.6 years) completed an online survey about demographic characteristics, lifestyle behaviours and health concerns, experience and confidence in technology use, and preferences, attitudes and perception of diet app and website use. Descriptive analysis and unadjusted multiple logistic regression were used to explore data. Overall, 63.5% of participants were current or previous app users. App users were more confident in using technology, more concerned about diet and weight, and more trusting of information provided in diet-related apps compared to non-app users (p ≤ .05). Features such as food tracking, nutrient check and barcode scanning were preferred by both users and non-users. The likelihood of using diet-related apps was higher for those who trust the app information (OR 5.51, 95%CI: 2.40–12.66), often count calories (OR 2.28, 95%CI: 1.01–5.24) and are often on diet (OR 4.16, 95% CI: 1.21–14.21) compared to their counterparts. More than half of the Australians that participated in this study used diet-related apps and websites. App features that allow the user to accurately record and monitor food intake and scan barcodes may motivate app use. Future public health strategies may take advantage of diet-related apps and websites to improve dietary behaviour at the population level and reduce the burden of obesity and non-communicable diseases.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 12-05-2022
DOI: 10.2196/31352
Abstract: Physical activity is an integral part of healthy aging yet, most adults aged ≥65 years are not sufficiently active. Preliminary evidence suggests that web-based interventions with computer-tailored advice and Fitbit activity trackers may be well suited for older adults. The aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness of Active for Life, a 12-week web-based physical activity intervention with 6 web-based modules of computer-tailored advice to increase physical activity in older Australians. Participants were recruited both through the web and offline and were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 trial arms: tailoring+Fitbit, tailoring only, or a wait-list control. The computer-tailored advice was based on either participants’ Fitbit data (tailoring+Fitbit participants) or self-reported physical activity (tailoring-only participants). The main outcome was change in wrist-worn accelerometer (ActiGraph GT9X)–measured moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) from baseline to after the intervention (week 12). The secondary outcomes were change in self-reported physical activity measured by means of the Active Australia Survey at the midintervention point (6 weeks), after the intervention (week 12), and at follow-up (week 24). Participants had a face-to-face meeting at baseline for a demonstration of the intervention and at baseline and week 12 to return the accelerometers. Generalized linear mixed model analyses were conducted with a γ distribution and log link to compare MVPA and self-reported physical activity changes over time within each trial arm and between each of the trial arms. A total of 243 participants were randomly assigned to tailoring+Fitbit (n=78, 32.1%), tailoring only (n=96, 39.5%), and wait-list control (n=69, 28.4%). Attrition was 28.8% (70/243) at 6 weeks, 31.7% (77/243) at 12 weeks, and 35.4% (86/243) at 24 weeks. No significant overall time by group interaction was observed for MVPA (P=.05). There were no significant within-group changes for MVPA over time in the tailoring+Fitbit group (+3%, 95% CI –24% to 40%) or the tailoring-only group (–4%, 95% CI –24% to 30%) however, a significant decline was seen in the control group (–35%, 95% CI –52% to –11%). The tailoring+Fitbit group participants increased their MVPA 59% (95% CI 6%-138%) more than those in the control group. A significant time by group interaction was observed for self-reported physical activity (P=.02). All groups increased their self-reported physical activity from baseline to week 6, week 12, and week 24, and this increase was greater in the tailoring+Fitbit group than in the control group at 6 weeks (+61%, 95% CI 11%-133%). A computer-tailored physical activity intervention with Fitbit integration resulted in improved MVPA outcomes in comparison with a control group in older adults. Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12618000646246 anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?ACTRN=12618000646246
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2018
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2016
Abstract: This study examined chronic disease risks and the use of a smartphone activity tracking application during an intervention in Australian truck drivers (April-October 2014). Forty-four men (mean age=47.5 [SD 9.8] years) completed baseline health measures, and were subsequently offered access to a free wrist-worn activity tracker and smartphone application (Jawbone UP) to monitor step counts and dietary choices during a 20-week intervention. Chronic disease risks were evaluated against guidelines weekly step count and dietary logs registered by drivers in the application were analysed to evaluate use of the Jawbone UP. Chronic disease risks were high (e.g. 97% high waist circumference [≥ 94 cm]). Eighteen drivers (41%) did not start the intervention smartphone technical barriers were the main reason for drop out. Across 20-weeks, drivers who used the Jawbone UP logged step counts for an average of 6 [SD 1] days/week mean step counts remained consistent across the intervention (weeks 1-4=8,743[SD 2,867] steps/day weeks 17-20=8,994[SD 3,478] steps/day). The median number of dietary logs significantly decreased from start (17 [IQR 38] logs/weeks) to end of the intervention (0 [IQR 23] logs/week p<0.01) the median proportion of healthy diet choices relative to total diet choices logged increased across the intervention (weeks 1-4=38[IQR 21]% weeks 17-20=58[IQR 18]%). Step counts were more successfully monitored than dietary choices in those drivers who used the Jawbone UP. Smartphone technology facilitated active living and healthy dietary choices, but also prohibited intervention engagement in a number of these high-risk Australian truck drivers.
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 2014
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 20-02-2018
DOI: 10.2196/MHEALTH.8287
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.GAITPOST.2014.07.024
Abstract: The activPAL accelerometer is a commonly used device for the assessment of physical activity in cross-sectional and intervention research. These devices are usually attached directly to the skin however, recent studies report problems such as skin irritation associated with this attachment method and therefore adequate alternate methods are needed. The aim of this study was to validate the use of an elasticised pouch to secure an activPAL3c (PAL Technologies, Glasgow, UK) accelerometer for the assessment of sedentary and physical activity behaviours during laboratory and free-living conditions. Twenty-eight healthy adults wore two activPAL3c accelerometers, one secured in an elasticised pouch, and one directly attached to the skin, on the anterior surface of the right thigh during laboratory-based walking at a self-selected pace, treadmill walking at 0.89 ms(-1), 1.56 ms(-1) and running at 2.2 ms(-1), and during free-living conditions. Paired s les t-tests and intraclass correlation coefficients were used to investigate the difference and agreement between accelerometer outputs. No statistically significant difference in step count between pouch-mounted and skin-mounted activPAL3c accelerometers was evident during walking at any speed under laboratory conditions. No statistically significant difference in step count, upright time, sitting time or postural transitions was found between pouch-mounted and skin-mounted activPAL3c accelerometers during free-living conditions. Intraclass correlation coefficients showed a high to very high level of agreement between pouch-mounted and skin-mounted activPAL3c accelerometers for each outcome variable. The use of an elasticised pouch to secure the activPAL3c accelerometer appears to be a valid method of attachment and may offer advantages over direct skin mounting.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 22-07-2015
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 24-04-2012
DOI: 10.2196/JMIR.1959
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.GAITPOST.2016.06.013
Abstract: ActivPAL3c triaxial accelerometers are increasingly used to assess physical activity and sedentary behaviours. However, little is known how attachment site (left vs. right or upper vs. lower thigh) affects activPAL3c accelerometer outcomes. Twenty-eight adults wore four activPAL3c accelerometers attached 2cm above and below the midpoint of the left and right thigh during five minutes of laboratory-based walking at a self-selected pace, treadmill walking at 0.89 and 1.56m/s, and treadmill running at 2.22m/s, and during approximately seven hours of free-living conditions. One-way ANOVA revealed no statistically significant differences in accelerometer output between ActivPAL3c accelerometers at these locations during both laboratory-based, and free-living conditions. Intraclass correlation coefficients showed a high level of agreement between activPAL3c accelerometers during laboratory and free living activities (ICC(2,1) 0.76-1.00). The attachment sites used in this study do not appear to significantly influence outcomes for step count, sitting or walking time, or number of postural transitions from triaxial activPAL3c accelerometers during laboratory-based walking or free-living conditions. Therefore if necessary, to enhance participant compliance during monitoring periods, these sites could be used interchangeably. Studies of longer duration incorporating additional laboratory and recreational activities are needed to confirm these findings.
Publisher: American Psychological Association (APA)
Date: 02-2022
DOI: 10.1037/SPY0000278
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 20-04-2012
DOI: 10.2196/JMIR.1950
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 20-10-2015
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 18-05-2017
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.APERGO.2022.103806
Abstract: Excessive physical demand at work has traditionally been connected with adverse health outcomes, but excessive sitting is now also being recognised as an occupational hazard and emerging work-related risk. Traditional preventive occupational health and ergonomics programs are useful but limited through reliance on in idual behaviour change and time- ersion from productive work. A new 'Goldilocks Work Paradigm' aims to optimise health and productivity by using movements of productive tasks. Using rail driving as a specific case of a highly sedentary and inflexible working environment, we construct a conceptual framework for designing better jobs, arguing that a theoretical amalgamation of the new Goldilocks Work Paradigm with System Thinking, Participatory Ergonomics, and a Risk Management Framework, is needed, for establishing a unified, strategic approach-a 'just right' job design model. We extend this by outlining a practical process of designing better jobs with tools that can be used to achieve it.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 09-2013
DOI: 10.1080/10810730.2013.768731
Abstract: Within a health context, men in Western societies are a hard-to-reach population who experience higher rates of chronic disease compared with women. Innovative technology-based interventions that specifically target men are needed however, little is known about how these should be developed for this group. This study aimed to examine opinions and perceptions regarding the use of Internet and mobile phones to improve physical activity and nutrition behaviors for middle-aged men. The authors conducted 6 focus groups (n = 30) in Queensland, Australia. Their analyses identified 6 themes: (a) Internet experience, (b) website characteristics, (c) Web 2.0 applications, (d) website features, (e) self-monitoring, and (f) mobile phones as delivery method. The outcomes indicate that men support the use of the Internet to improve and self-monitor physical activity and dietary behaviors on the condition that the website-delivered interventions are quick and easy to use, because commitment levels to engage in online tasks are low. Participants also indicated that they were reluctant to use normal mobile phones to change health behaviors, although smartphones were perceived to be more acceptable. This pilot study suggests that there are viable avenues to engage middle-aged men in Internet- or in mobile-delivered health interventions. This study also suggests that to be successful, these interventions need to be tailor-made especially for men, with an emphasis on usability and convenience. A wider quantitative study would bring further support to these findings.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 12-12-2019
Abstract: Social media c aigns provide broad-reach and convenience for promoting freely-available health programs. However, their effectiveness and subsequent engagement of new users is unknown. This study aimed to assess the reach and new member registration rates resulting from a dedicated 10,000 Steps social media c aign (SMC) and to compare program engagement and time to non-usage attrition of new users from the SMC with other users. SMC reach (using Facebook, Instagram, and display advertisements engagement metrics), new-user numbers, engagement (usage of the website and its features), and time to non-usage attrition were assessed using generalized linear regression, binary logistic regression, and Cox proportion hazards regression models. During the SMC, Instagram and display advertisement impressions, Facebook reach and new daily registrations were significantly higher compared with six weeks and one year prior. There were no between-group differences in the average usage of most website rogram features. Risk of non-usage attrition was higher among new users from the SMC than new users from one year prior. The SMC was effective in promoting awareness of the 10,000 Steps program. Further research to identify long-term engagement strategies and the most effective combination of social media platforms for promotion of, and recruitment to, health programs is warranted.
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc
Date: 02-2015
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 26-09-2017
Abstract: lectronic health (eHealth) and mobile health (mHealth) approaches to address low physical activity levels, sedentary behavior, and unhealthy diets have received significant research attention. However, attempts to systematically map the entirety of the research field are lacking. This gap can be filled with a bibliometric study, where publication-specific data such as citations, journals, authors, and keywords are used to provide a systematic overview of a specific field. Such analyses will help researchers better position their work. he objective of this review was to use bibliometric data to provide an overview of the eHealth and mHealth research field related to physical activity, sedentary behavior, and diet. he Web of Science (WoS) Core Collection was searched to retrieve all existing and highly cited (as defined by WoS) physical activity, sedentary behavior, and diet related eHealth and mHealth research papers published in English between January 1, 2000 and December 31, 2016. Retrieved titles were screened for eligibility, using the abstract and full-text where needed. We described publication trends over time, which included journals, authors, and countries of eligible papers, as well as their keywords and subject categories. Citations of eligible papers were compared with those expected based on published data. Additionally, we described highly-cited papers of the field (ie, top ranked 1%). he search identified 4805 hits, of which 1712 (including 42 highly-cited papers) were included in the analyses. Publication output increased on an average of 26% per year since 2000, with 49.00% (839/1712) of papers being published between 2014 and 2016. Overall and throughout the years, eHealth and mHealth papers related to physical activity, sedentary behavior, and diet received more citations than expected compared with papers in the same WoS subject categories. The Journal of Medical Internet Research published most papers in the field (9.58%, 164/1712). Most papers originated from high-income countries (96.90%, 1659/1717), in particular the United States (48.83%, 836/1712). Most papers were trials and studied physical activity. Beginning in 2013, research on Generation 2 technologies (eg, smartphones, wearables) sharply increased, while research on Generation 1 (eg, text messages) technologies increased at a reduced pace. Reviews accounted for 20 of the 42 highly-cited papers (n=19 systematic reviews). Social media, smartphone apps, and wearable activity trackers used to encourage physical activity, less sedentary behavior, and/or healthy eating were the focus of 14 highly-cited papers. his study highlighted the rapid growth of the eHealth and mHealth physical activity, sedentary behavior, and diet research field, emphasized the sizeable contribution of research from high-income countries, and pointed to the increased research interest in Generation 2 technologies. It is expected that the field will grow and ersify further and that reviews and research on most recent technologies will continue to strongly impact the field.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 12-2020
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2020-040350
Abstract: The increasing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Nepal underscores the importance of strengthening primary healthcare systems to deliver efficient care. In this study, we examined the barriers and facilitators to engaging community health workers (CHWs) for NCDs prevention and control in Nepal. We used multiple approaches including (a) review of relevant literature, (b) key personnel and stakeholders’ consultation meetings and (c) qualitative data collection using semistructured interviews. A grounded theory approach was used for qualitative data collection and the data were analysed thematically. Data were collected from health facilities across four districts in Nepal and two stakeholder consultative meetings were conducted at central level. We conducted in-depth interviews with CHWs (Health Assistants, Auxiliary Health Workers, Auxiliary Nurse Midwife) (n=5) key informant interviews with health policymakers/managers (n=3) and focus group discussions (FGDs) with CHWs (four FGDs total n=27). Participants in two stakeholder consultative meetings included members from the government (n=8), non-government organisations (n=7), private sector (n=3) and universities (n=6). The CHWs were engaged in a wide range of public health programmes and they also deliver NCDs specific programmes such as common NCDs screening, provisional diagnosis, primary care, health education and counselling, basic medication and referral and so on. These NCD prevention and control services are concentrated in those districts, where the WHO, Package for prevention and control of NCDs) program is being implemented. Some challenges and barriers were identified, including inadequate NCD training, high workload, poor system-level support, inadequate remuneration, inadequate supply of logistics and drugs. The facilitating factors included government priority, formation of NCD-related policies, community support systems, social prestige and staff motivation. Engaging CHWs has been considered as key driver to delivering NCDs related services in Nepal. Effective integration of CHWs within the primary care system is essential for CHW’s capacity buildings, necessary supervisory arrangements, supply of logistics and medications and setting up effective recording and reporting systems for prevention and control of NCDs in Nepal.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 09-02-2015
DOI: 10.2196/JMIR.3402
Publisher: American Psychological Association (APA)
Date: 2008
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 19-01-2016
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 19-05-2021
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 11-05-2018
DOI: 10.1080/07420528.2018.1466789
Abstract: This pilot study investigated the impact of breaking up prolonged sitting with light-intensity walking on postprandial glucose responses and sleep architecture. In a randomized, counterbalanced, crossover design, six healthy males completed a sitting condition and an active condition (sitting interrupted with light-intensity walking) for three consecutive days, following 5-h sleep opportunities at night. Postprandial glucose response and sleep (time spent in all stages) was assessed. Breaking up prolonged sitting with light-intensity walking did not affect postprandial glucose responses in sleep-restricted participants however a small increase (~9 min) in slow-wave sleep was observed.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 27-01-2014
DOI: 10.2196/JMIR.3094
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 26-03-2019
DOI: 10.1038/S41430-018-0135-9
Abstract: Probiotic supplements have a positive impact on several health outcomes. However, the majority of published studies have focused on populations with specific health pathologies. Therefore, this study reviewed the current literature on the health effects of probiotic consumption in "healthy adults." The findings from this review may help guide consumers, researchers, and manufacturers regarding probiotic supplementation. Relevant literature published between 1990 and August 2017 was reviewed. Studies were included if they were experimental trials, included healthy adults, used live bacteria, and had accessible full-text articles published in English. Included studies were classified according to common foci that emerged. Forty-five studies were included in this review. Five foci emerged: gut microbiota changes (n = 15) immune system response (n = 16) lipid profile and cardiovascular disease risk (n = 14) gastrointestinal discomfort (n = 11) and female reproductive health (n = 4). Results suggest that probiotic supplementation in healthy adults can lead to transient improvement in gut microbiota concentration of supplement-specific bacteria. Evidence also supports the role of probiotics in improving immune system responses, stool consistency, bowel movement, and vaginal lactobacilli concentration. There is insufficient evidence to support the role of probiotics to improve blood lipid profile. Probiotic consumption can improve in the immune, gastrointestinal, and female reproductive health systems in healthy adults. However, this review failed to support the ability of probiotics to cause persistent changes in gut microbiota, or improve lipid profile in healthy adults. The feasibility of probiotics consumption to provide benefits in healthy adults requires further investigation.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 02-08-2022
Abstract: In-Classroom physical activity breaks (IcPAB) are a promising way to promote children’s health behaviors, while contributing to the development of their academic and cognitive ability and health outcomes. Yet the effect of the activity breaks, which are exclusive to classroom settings, are still mixed and unclear. Hence, this review was conducted to identify the characteristics and the effects of IcPAB among primary school children. The review protocol was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42021234192). Following the Cochrane guidelines, PubMed, PsycINFO (ProQuest), MEDLINE (EBSCOhost), Embase/Ovid, SportDISCUS (EBSCOhost), Web of Science, Scopus and Academic Search Premier (EBSCOhost) databases were searched to collect data on randomised control trials without a time restriction. The final database search was conducted on the 8 November 2021. Random effects models were used to calculate the effect sizes. The systematic review identified ten eligible studies, nine of which were also included in the meta-analysis. Few studies used the theoretical frameworks and process evaluations. IcPAB showed mixed effectiveness on academic outcomes: i.e., IcPAB had effects on spelling performance (p 0.05) and foreign language learning (p 0.01) but not on mathematics and reading performance. Health behaviors such as moderate-to-vigorous physical activity levels were improved (p 0.01), but IcPAB did not have an impact on cognition outcomes and health outcomes. Given these mixed results, further research is needed underpinned by strong methodological quality, theoretical underpinnings and reliable process evaluation methods.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 23-03-2017
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 15-04-2019
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 23-08-2016
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 23-06-2017
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 28-08-2020
Abstract: hysical activity is an important health behavior, due to its association with many physical and mental health conditions. During distressing events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a concern that physical activity levels may be negatively impacted. However, recent studies have shown inconsistent results. Additionally, there is a lack of studies in Australia on this topic. he aim of this study is to investigate changes in physical activity reported through the 10,000 Steps program and changes in engagement with the program during the COVID-19 pandemic. ata between January 1, 2018, and June 30, 2020, from registered members of the 10,000 Steps program, which included 3,548,825 days with step data, were used. The number of daily steps were logged manually by the members or synced automatically from their activity trackers connected to the program. Measures on program usage were the number of new registered members per day, the number of newly registered organizations per day, the number of steps logged per day, and the number of step entries per day. Key dates used for comparison were as follows: the first case with symptoms in Wuhan, China the first case reported in Australia the implementation of a 14-day ban for noncitizens arriving in Australia from China the start of the lockdown in Australia and the relaxing of restrictions by the Australian Government. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used to test for significant differences in number of steps between subgroups, between engagement measures in 2019 versus 2020, and before and after an event. decrease in steps was observed after the first case in Australia was reported (1.5% i P /i =.02) and after the start of the lockdown (3.4% i P /i & .001). At the time that the relaxing of restrictions started, the steps had already recovered from the lockdown. Additionally, the trends were consistent across genders and age groups. New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory, and Victoria had the greatest step reductions, with decreases of 7.0% ( i P /i & .001), 6.2% ( i P /i =.02), and 4.7% ( i P /i & .001), respectively. During the lockdown, the use of the program increased steeply. On the peak day, there were more than 9000 step entries per day, with nearly 100 million steps logged per day in addition, more than 450 new users and more than 15 new organizations registered per day, although the numbers decreased quickly when restrictions were relaxed. On average per day, there were about 55 new registered users ( i P /i & .001), 2 new organizations ( i P /i & .001), 25.6 million steps ( i P /i & .001), and 2672 log entries ( i P /i & .001) more in 2020 compared to the same period in 2019. he pandemic has had negative effects on steps among Australians across age groups and genders. However, the effect was relatively small, with steps recovering quickly after the lockdown. There was a large increase in program usage during the pandemic, which might help minimize the health impact of the lockdown and confirms the important role of physical activity programs during times of distress and lockdowns.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 28-11-2018
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: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 18-06-2021
Abstract: hysical activity is an integral part of healthy aging yet, most adults aged ≥65 years are not sufficiently active. Preliminary evidence suggests that web-based interventions with computer-tailored advice and Fitbit activity trackers may be well suited for older adults. he aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness of i Active for Life /i , a 12-week web-based physical activity intervention with 6 web-based modules of computer-tailored advice to increase physical activity in older Australians. articipants were recruited both through the web and offline and were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 trial arms: tailoring+Fitbit, tailoring only, or a wait-list control. The computer-tailored advice was based on either participants’ Fitbit data (tailoring+Fitbit participants) or self-reported physical activity (tailoring-only participants). The main outcome was change in wrist-worn accelerometer (ActiGraph GT9X)–measured moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) from baseline to after the intervention (week 12). The secondary outcomes were change in self-reported physical activity measured by means of the Active Australia Survey at the midintervention point (6 weeks), after the intervention (week 12), and at follow-up (week 24). Participants had a face-to-face meeting at baseline for a demonstration of the intervention and at baseline and week 12 to return the accelerometers. Generalized linear mixed model analyses were conducted with a i γ /i distribution and log link to compare MVPA and self-reported physical activity changes over time within each trial arm and between each of the trial arms. total of 243 participants were randomly assigned to tailoring+Fitbit (n=78, 32.1%), tailoring only (n=96, 39.5%), and wait-list control (n=69, 28.4%). Attrition was 28.8% (70/243) at 6 weeks, 31.7% (77/243) at 12 weeks, and 35.4% (86/243) at 24 weeks. No significant overall time by group interaction was observed for MVPA ( i P /i =.05). There were no significant within-group changes for MVPA over time in the tailoring+Fitbit group (+3%, 95% CI –24% to 40%) or the tailoring-only group (–4%, 95% CI –24% to 30%) however, a significant decline was seen in the control group (–35%, 95% CI –52% to –11%). The tailoring+Fitbit group participants increased their MVPA 59% (95% CI 6%-138%) more than those in the control group. A significant time by group interaction was observed for self-reported physical activity ( i P /i =.02). All groups increased their self-reported physical activity from baseline to week 6, week 12, and week 24, and this increase was greater in the tailoring+Fitbit group than in the control group at 6 weeks (+61%, 95% CI 11%-133%). computer-tailored physical activity intervention with Fitbit integration resulted in improved MVPA outcomes in comparison with a control group in older adults. ustralian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12618000646246 anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?ACTRN=12618000646246
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 10-2014
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2014-006374
Abstract: Low levels of health-enhancing physical activity require novel approaches that have the potential to reach broad populations. Web-based interventions are a popular approach for behaviour change given their wide reach and accessibility. However, challenges with participant engagement and retention reduce the long-term maintenance of behaviour change. Web 2.0 features present a new and innovative online environment supporting greater interactivity, with the potential to increase engagement and retention. In order to understand the applicability of these innovative interventions for the broader population, ‘real-world’ interventions implemented under ‘everyday conditions’ are required. The aim of this study is to investigate the difference in physical activity behaviour between in iduals using a traditional Web 1.0 website with those using a novel Web 2.0 website. In this study we will aim to recruit 2894 participants. Participants will be recruited from in iduals who register with a pre-existing health promotion website that currently provides Web 1.0 features ( www.10000steps.org.au ). Eligible participants who provide informed consent will be randomly assigned to one of the two trial conditions: the pre-existing 10 000 Steps website (with Web 1.0 features) or the newly developed WALK 2.0 website (with Web 2.0 features). Primary and secondary outcome measures will be assessed by self-report at baseline, 3 months and 12 months, and include: physical activity behaviour, height and weight, Internet self-efficacy, website usability, website usage and quality of life. This study has received ethics approval from the University of Western Sydney Human Research Ethics Committee (Reference Number H8767) and has been funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council (Reference Number 589903). Study findings will be disseminated widely through peer-reviewed publications, academic conferences and local community-based presentations. Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry Number: ACTRN12611000253909, WHO Universal Trial Number: U111-1119-1755
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 31-05-2016
DOI: 10.2196/JMIR.5266
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2014.07.031
Abstract: To (1) compare occupational sitting between different socio-demographic, health-related, work-related and psychosocial categories, (2) identity socio-demographic, health-related, work-related and psychosocial correlates of occupational sitting, and (3) examine the moderating effect of work-related factors in the relation between correlates and occupational sitting. Randomly-selected Australian adults completed a web-based survey assessing socio-demographic (country of birth, gender, age, education, income), health-related (general health, weight, physical activity), work-related (employment status, occupational task, occupational classification) and sedentary-specific psychosocial (social norm, social support, self-efficacy, control, advantages, disadvantage, intention) factors, and occupational sitting-time. t-tests, ANOVAs and multiple linear regression analyses were conducted (in 2013) on a s le of employees (n=993). Respondents sat on average for 3.75 (SD=2.45) h/day during work. Investigated correlates explained 41% of the variance in occupational sitting. More occupational sitting was associated with being male, being younger, higher education and income, part-time and full-time employment, sedentary job tasks, white-collar rofessional occupations, higher BMI, and perceiving more advantages of sitting less at work. Employment status and occupational classification moderated the association between control to sit less and occupational sitting. A lack of control to sit less was associated with higher occupational sitting in part-time and full-time workers, but not in casual workers and in white-collar and professional workers, but not in blue-collar workers. Most important contributors to occupational sitting were work-related and socio-demographic correlates. More research is needed to confirm present results.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 25-11-2015
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 08-05-2014
DOI: 10.1007/S00520-014-2273-5
Abstract: To explore demographic, health, social-cognitive and behavioural correlates of resistance training among post-treatment breast cancer survivors. A s le of 330 post-treatment breast cancer survivors recruited from across Australia completed a mailed questionnaire. A multivariate logistical regression model was used to test associations between independent variables and meeting the resistance training guidelines. Less than a quarter of the participants were meeting the resistance training guidelines of at least two sessions of resistance training per week. Higher task self-efficacy for resistance training (p < 0.01) and greater goal-setting behaviour (p < 0.05) were identified as significant predictors of meeting the resistance training guidelines, with a one unit increase in task self-efficacy and goal setting, increasing the odds of meeting the resistance training guidelines by a factor of approximately 1.2 (odds ratio (OR) task self-efficacy = 1.23, 95 % confidence interval (CI) = 1.05-1.43 goal-setting OR = 1.20, 95 % CI = 1.04-1.38). No other variables significantly predicted meeting the resistance training guidelines in the multivariate analysis. Strategies targeting task self-efficacy and goal-setting behaviours are likely to be important intervention components in resistance training interventions for breast cancer survivors. The findings of this study will be useful for informing the development of evidence-based interventions aiming to promote resistance training among this group.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2011
Publisher: ACM
Date: 05-08-2014
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 13-04-2018
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 17-06-2017
DOI: 10.1007/S00520-017-3786-5
Abstract: Participating in regular physical activity is a recommended cancer recovery strategy for breast cancer survivors. However, tailored support services are not widely available and most survivors are insufficiently active to obtain health benefits. Delivering tailored programs via the Internet offers one promising approach. However, recent evaluations of such programs suggest that major improvements are needed to ensure programs meet the needs of users and are delivered in an engaging way. Understanding participants' experiences with current programs can help to inform the next generation of systems. The purposes of this study are to explore breast cancer survivor's perspectives of and experiences using a novel computer-tailored intervention and to describe recommendations for future iterations. Qualitative data from a sub-s le of iMove More for Life study participants were analysed thematically to identify key themes. Participants long-term goals for participating in the program were explored by analysing open-ended data extracted from action plans completed during the intervention (n = 370). Participants negative and positive perceptions of the website and recommendations for improvement were explored using data extracted from open-ended survey items collected at the immediate intervention follow-up (n = 156). The majority of participants reported multi-faceted goals, consisting of two or more outcomes they hoped to achieve within a year. While clear themes were identified (e.g. 'being satisfied with body weight'), there was considerable variability in the scope of the goal (e.g. desired weight loss ranged from 2 to 30 kg). Participants' perceptions of the website were mixed, but clear indications were provided of how intervention content and structure could be improved. This study provides insight into how to better accommodate breast cancer survivors in the future and ultimately design more engaging computer-tailored interventions.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 03-01-2017
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 03-01-2014
DOI: 10.2196/RESPROT.2776
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 25-02-2016
Abstract: Translating evidence-based interventions into community practice is vital to health promotion. This study used the RE-AIM framework to evaluate the larger dissemination of the ManUp intervention, an intervention which utilized interactive web-based technologies to improve the physical activity and nutrition behaviors of residents in Central Queensland, Australia. Data were collected for each RE-AIM measure (Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, Maintenance) using (i) computer-assisted telephone interview survey (N = 312) with adults (18 years and over) from Central Queensland, (ii) interviews with key stakeholders from local organizations (n = 12) and (iii) examination of project-related statistics and findings. In terms of Reach, 47% of participants were aware of the intervention Effectiveness, there were no significant differences between physical activity and healthy nutrition levels in those aware and unaware Adoption, 73 participants registered for the intervention and 25% of organizations adopted some part of the intervention Implementation, 26% of participants initially logged onto the website, 29 and 17% started the web-based physical activity and nutrition challenges, 33% of organizations implemented the intervention, 42% considered implementation and 25% reported difficulties Maintenance, an average of 0.57 logins and 1.35 entries per week during the 12 week dissemination and 0.27 logins and 0.63 entries per week during the 9-month follow-up were achieved, 22 and 0% of participants completed the web-based physical activity and nutrition challenges and 33.3% of organizations intended to continue utilizing components of the intervention. While this intervention demonstrated good reach, effectiveness, adoption and implementation warrant further investigation.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 04-07-2019
Abstract: Our understanding of how multiple health-behaviours co-occur is in its infancy. This study aimed to: (1) identify patterns of physical activity, diet, sitting, and sleep and (2) examine the association between sociodemographic and health-risk indicators. Pooled data from annual cross-sectional telephone surveys of Australian adults (2015–2017, n = 3374, 51.4% women) were used. Participants self-reported physical activity, diet, sitting-time, sleep/rest insufficiency, sociodemographic characteristics, smoking, alcohol use, height and weight to calculate body mass index (BMI), and mental distress frequency. Latent class analysis identified health-behaviour classes. Latent class regression determined the associations between health-behaviour patterns, sociodemographic, and health-risk indicators. Three latent classes were identified. Relative to a ‘moderate lifestyle’ pattern (men: 43.2%, women: 38.1%), a ‘poor lifestyle’ pattern (men: 19.9%, women: 30.5%) was associated with increased odds of a younger age, smoking, BMI ≥ 30.0 kg/m2, frequent mental distress (men and women), non-partnered status (men only), a lower Socioeconomic Index for Areas centile, primary/secondary education only, and BMI = 25.0–29.9 kg/m2 (women only). An ‘active poor sleeper’ pattern (men: 37.0%, women: 31.4%) was associated with increased odds of a younger age (men and women), working and frequent mental distress (women only), relative to a ‘moderate lifestyle’ pattern. Better understanding of how health-behaviour patterns influence future health status is needed. Targeted interventions jointly addressing these behaviours are a public health priority.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 26-05-2017
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2013
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2016.06.012
Abstract: Growing evidence points to the benefits of addressing multiple health behaviors rather than single behaviors. This review evaluates the relative effectiveness of simultaneous and sequentially delivered multiple health behavior change (MHBC) interventions. Secondary aims were to identify: a) the most effective spacing of sequentially delivered components b) differences in efficacy of MHBC interventions for adoption/cessation behaviors and lifestyle/addictive behaviors, and c) differences in trial retention between simultaneously and sequentially delivered interventions. MHBC intervention trials published up to October 2015 were identified through a systematic search. Eligible trials were randomised controlled trials that directly compared simultaneous and sequential delivery of a MHBC intervention. A narrative synthesis was undertaken. Six trials met the inclusion criteria and across these trials the behaviors targeted were smoking, diet, physical activity, and alcohol consumption. Three trials reported a difference in intervention effect between a sequential and simultaneous approach in at least one behavioral outcome. Of these, two trials favoured a sequential approach on smoking. One trial favoured a simultaneous approach on fat intake. There was no difference in retention between sequential and simultaneous approaches. There is limited evidence regarding the relative effectiveness of sequential and simultaneous approaches. Given only three of the six trials observed a difference in intervention effectiveness for one health behavior outcome, and the relatively consistent finding that the sequential and simultaneous approaches were more effective than a usual/minimal care control condition, it appears that both approaches should be considered equally efficacious. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42015027876.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2014
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 21-07-2014
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2013
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 12-05-2016
DOI: 10.1093/JAC/DKW155
Abstract: The risk of patients with ALL and recipients of an allogeneic HSCT developing Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia is sufficiently high to warrant guidelines for the laboratory diagnosis, prevention and treatment of the disease. In this issue, the European Conference on Infections in Leukemia (ECIL) presents its recommendations in three companion papers.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2007
DOI: 10.1016/J.AMEPRE.2007.01.004
Abstract: Given the epidemic of lifestyle-related chronic diseases, building the evidence base for physical activity and dietary behavior change interventions with a wide population reach is of critical importance. For this purpose, telephone counseling interventions have considerable potential. To systematically review the literature on interventions for physical activity and dietary behavior change in which a telephone was the primary method of intervention delivery, with a focus on both internal and external validity. A structured search of PubMed, Medline, and PsycInfo was conducted for studies published in English from 1965 to January 2006. Studies targeted primary or secondary prevention in adults, used randomized designs, and included physical activity and/or dietary behavior outcomes. Twenty-six studies were reviewed, including 16 on physical activity, six on dietary behavior, and four on physical activity plus dietary behavior. Twenty of 26 studies reported significant behavioral improvements. Positive outcomes were reported for 69% of physical activity studies, 83% of dietary behavior studies, and 75% of studies addressing both outcomes. Factors associated with positive outcomes appear to be the length of intervention and the number of calls, with interventions lasting 6 to 12 months and those including 12 or more calls producing the most favorable outcomes. Data on the representativeness of participants, implementation of calls, and costs were reported much less frequently. There is now a solid evidence base supporting the efficacy of physical activity and dietary behavior change interventions in which the telephone is the primary intervention method. Thus, research studies on broader dissemination are necessary, and should address questions relevant to the translation of this body of work into population health practice.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 13-07-2015
DOI: 10.2196/JMIR.4086
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 21-10-2022
DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0274975
Abstract: Sustained engagement with Internet-based behavioural interventions is crucial to achieve successful behaviour change outcomes. As this has been problematic in many interventions, a lot of research has focused on participants with little or no engagement. However, few studies have attempted to understand users with continuous long-term engagement, the so called ‘super engaged users’, and why they keep on using programs when everybody else has long stopped. Therefore, the aim of this research was to qualitatively examine characteristics, usage profile and motivations of super engaged users in the 10,000 Steps program. Twenty 10,000 Steps users (10 with more than 1 year of engagement, and 10 with more than 10 years of engagement) participated in semi-structured interviews, that were transcribed and thematically analysed. Participants were aged 60 years on average, with more than half being overweight/obese and/or suffering from chronic disease despite logging high step counts (219 million steps per participant on average) on the 10,000 Steps platform. Participants indicated that the reasons for sustained use were that engaging the program had become a habit, that the program kept them motivated, and that it was easy to use. Few participants had suggestions for improvement or expressed there were program elements they did not like. Uptake of program innovations (e.g., app-version, use of advanced activity tracker instead of pedometer) was modest among the super engaged users. The findings from this study emphasise the need for digital health programs to incorporate features that will support the development of habits as soon as participants start to engage with the program. While a program’s usability, user-friendliness and acceptability are important to engage and retain new users, habit formation may be more important for sustained long-term engagement with the behaviour and the program.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2016
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 15-11-2017
Abstract: ngagement in electronic health (eHealth) and mobile health (mHealth) behavior change interventions is thought to be important for intervention effectiveness, though what constitutes engagement and how it enhances efficacy has been somewhat unclear in the literature. Recently published detailed definitions and conceptual models of engagement have helped to build consensus around a definition of engagement and improve our understanding of how engagement may influence effectiveness. This work has helped to establish a clearer research agenda. However, to test the hypotheses generated by the conceptual modules, we need to know how to measure engagement in a valid and reliable way. The aim of this viewpoint is to provide an overview of engagement measurement options that can be employed in eHealth and mHealth behavior change intervention evaluations, discuss methodological considerations, and provide direction for future research. To identify measures, we used snowball s ling, starting from systematic reviews of engagement research as well as those utilized in studies known to the authors. A wide range of methods to measure engagement were identified, including qualitative measures, self-report questionnaires, ecological momentary assessments, system usage data, sensor data, social media data, and psychophysiological measures. Each measurement method is appraised and ex les are provided to illustrate possible use in eHealth and mHealth behavior change research. Recommendations for future research are provided, based on the limitations of current methods and the heavy reliance on system usage data as the sole assessment of engagement. The validation and adoption of a wider range of engagement measurements and their thoughtful application to the study of engagement are encouraged.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 18-06-2021
DOI: 10.2196/22151
Abstract: Engagement is positively associated with the effectiveness of digital health interventions. It is unclear whether tracking devices that automatically synchronize data (eg, Fitbit) produce different engagement levels compared with manually entering data. This study examines how different step logging methods in the freely available 10,000 Steps physical activity program differ according to age and gender and are associated with program engagement. A subs le of users (n=22,142) of the free 10,000 Steps physical activity program were classified into one of the following user groups based on the step-logging method: Website Only (14,617/22,142, 66.01%), App Only (2100/22,142, 9.48%), Fitbit Only (1705/22,142, 7.7%), Web and App (2057/22,142, 9.29%), and Fitbit Combination (combination of web, app, and Fitbit 1663/22,142, 7.51%). Generalized linear regression and binary logistic regression were used to examine differences between user groups’ engagement and participation parameters. The time to nonusage attrition was assessed using Cox proportional hazards regression. App Only users were significantly younger and Fitbit user groups had higher proportions of women compared with other groups. The following outcomes were significant and relative to the Website Only group. The App Only group had fewer website sessions (odds ratio [OR] −6.9, 95% CI −7.6 to −6.2), whereas the Fitbit Only (OR 10.6, 95% CI 8.8-12.3), Web and App (OR 1.5, 95% CI 0.4-2.6), and Fitbit Combination (OR 8.0 95% CI 6.2-9.7) groups had more sessions. The App Only (OR −0.7, 95% CI −0.9 to −0.4) and Fitbit Only (OR −0.5, 95% CI −0.7 to −0.2) groups spent fewer minutes on the website per session, whereas the Fitbit Combination group (OR 0.2, 95% CI 0.0-0.5) spent more minutes. All groups, except the Fitbit Combination group, viewed fewer website pages per session. The mean daily step count was lower for the App Only (OR −201.9, 95% CI −387.7 to −116.0) and Fitbit Only (OR −492.9, 95% CI −679.9 to −305.8) groups but higher for the Web and App group (OR 258.0, 95% CI 76.9-439.2). The Fitbit Only (OR 5.0, 95% CI 3.4-6.6), Web and App (OR 7.2, 95% CI 5.9-8.6), and Fitbit Combination (OR 15.6, 95% CI 13.7-17.5) groups logged a greater number of step entries. The App Only group was less likely (OR 0.65, 95% CI 0.46-0.94) and other groups were more likely to participate in Challenges. The mean time to nonusage attrition was 35 (SD 26) days and was lower than average in the Website Only and App Only groups and higher than average in the Web and App and Fitbit Combination groups. Using a Fitbit in combination with the 10,000 Steps app or website enhanced engagement with a real-world physical activity program. Integrating tracking devices that synchronize data automatically into real-world physical activity interventions is one strategy for improving engagement.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2004
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2015
Publisher: American Psychological Association (APA)
Date: 2014
DOI: 10.1037/HEA0000027
Abstract: People living outside of urban areas are at higher risk for physical inactivity. Understanding physical activity correlates in different settings is important for understanding this risk. This study compared psychological, demographic, and health-related correlates of activity among adults living in major cities (urban areas) and regional (low-population density) towns and whether there were significant differences in how these potential determinants related to physical activity. Participants (n = 756) were male and female adults who were members of the Australian Health and Social Science panel. Participant characteristics and physical activity were assessed using standardized measures via an online survey. Differences in the strength of the relation between the physical activity correlates were tested using equality of regression coefficient tests. Few differences in physical activity determinants between major cities and regional settings were observed. For major city and regional areas, self-efficacy and outcome expectations were the most strongly related correlates to physical activity. The strength of associations between the correlates and physical activity did not differ between areas, with the exception of working status. Not working was associated with lower odds of meeting physical activity guidelines for major city residents but not for regional residents. Physical activity correlates were generally similar for people living in major city and regional areas. This suggests that physical activity interventions targeting personal factors do not need to tailor to a person's level of urbanization. Studies examining the interaction between psychological correlates of physical activity and environmental factors are needed.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 20-05-2016
DOI: 10.1080/17437199.2016.1183505
Abstract: Physical activity theories have almost exclusively focused on conscious regulatory processes such as plans, beliefs, and expected value. The aim of this review was to aggregate the burgeoning evidence showing that physical activity is also partially determined by non-conscious processes (e.g., habits, automatic associations, priming effects). A systematic search was conducted and study characteristics, design, measures, effect size of the principle summary measures, and main conclusions of 52 studies were extracted by two independent coders. The findings support that habitual regulatory processes measured via self-report are directly associated with physical activity beyond conscious processes, and that there is likely interdependency between habit strength and intentions. Response latency measures of automatic associations with physical activity were widely disparate, precluding conclusions about specific effects. A small body of evidence demonstrated a variety of priming effects on physical activity. Overall, it is evident that physical activity is partially regulated by non-conscious processes, but there remain many unanswered questions for this area of research. Future research should refine the conceptualisation and measurement of non-conscious regulatory processes and determine how to harness them to promote physical activity.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 2023
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPHTH-2022-001049
Abstract: To study the visual, refractive and surgical outcomes of intraocular lens (IOL) implantation versus aphakia in children with microspherophakia. Retrospective, comparative, non-randomised interventional study. All consecutive children with microspherophakia who satisfied the inclusion criteria were included. The eyes that underwent in-the-bag IOL implantation and those that were left aphakic were included in groups A and B, respectively. The postoperative visual outcomes, IOL stability and complications during the follow-up period were studied. 22 eyes (13 patients, male 76%), of which 12 eyes were in group A and 10 eyes in group B. The mean±SE of age at surgery was 9.4±1.4 and 7.3±0.9 years in group A and group B, respectively (p value 0.18). The mean follow-up of group A was 0.9±0.4 years (median 0.5 years Q1 0.04, Q3 2.16) and group B was 1.3±0.9 years (median 0.147 years Q1 0.08, Q3 0.39) (p value 0.76). All the baseline biometric variables including best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were comparable in each group. The final BCVA in logMAR adjusted for follow-up was comparable in both group A (0.29±0.06) and group B (0.52±0.09) (p value 0.06). Mean predictive error of IOL power in microspherophakia was 0.17±0.43. The most common complication in group A was visual axis opacification of two eyes (16.7%, 95% CI 2.9% to 49.1%), of which one eye (8.3%, 95% CI 0.4% to 40.2%) needed membranectomy. Vitreous in anterior chamber was the most common complication in group B, seen in two eyes (20%, 95% CI 3.5% to 55.8%), of which one eye (10%, 95% CI 0.5% to 45.9%) underwent YAG laser vitreolysis. The survival analysis (p value 0.18) was comparable in each group. In-the-bag IOL is an option, which can be considered in selected cases of microspherophakia in developing nations where regular follow-up and economic constraints are a major concern.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 29-06-2017
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 20-02-2022
Abstract: oor diet is a contributing factor to the risk and burden of noncommunicable diseases. Diet apps and websites are developed to help improve dietary intake. he aim of this study is to explore the use and acceptability of diet apps and associated websites in Australia. n a cross-sectional study, 241 participants (mean age = 40.6 years) completed an online survey between April and August 2021. The survey contained questions about demographic characteristics, lifestyle behaviours and health concerns, experience and confidence of technology and diet-related apps/website use, and preference, attitude and perception of diet-related apps/website use. Descriptive analysis and multiple logistic regression were used to explore data. verall, 63.5% of participants were current or previous app users. App users were more confident in using technology, more concerned about diet and weight, and more trusting of information provided in diet apps compared to non-app users (p ≤ .05). Features such as food tracking, nutrient check and barcode scanning were preferred by both users and non-users. The likelihood of using diet apps was higher for those who trust the app information (OR 5.51, 95%CI: 2.40 – 12.66), often count calories (OR 2.28, 95%CI: 1.01 – 5.24), and are often on diet (OR 4.16, 95% CI: 1.21 – 14.21) compared to their counterparts. ore than half of the Australians that participated in this study used diet app and websites. App features that allow to accurately record and monitor food intake and scan barcodes may motivate app use. Future public health strategies may take advantage of diet apps and websites to improve dietary behaviour at the population level and reduce the burden of obesity and NCDs.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 28-07-2021
DOI: 10.2196/28370
Abstract: Digital health interventions such as tailored websites are emerging as valuable tools to provide in idualized exercise and behavioral change information for in iduals diagnosed with cancer. The aim of this study is to investigate and iteratively refine the acceptability and usability of a web-based exercise intervention (ExerciseGuide) for men with metastatic prostate cancer and determine how well in iduals can replicate the video-based exercise prescription. A laboratory-based multi-methods design was used, incorporating questionnaires, think-aloud tests, interviews, and movement screening among 11 men aged 63 to 82 years with metastatic prostate cancer. Overall, 9 participants were undergoing androgen deprivation therapy, and 2 were completing chemotherapy. Data were collected in two waves, with changes made for quality improvement after participant 5. The intervention’s usability score was deemed moderate overall but improved after modifications (from 60, SD 2.9 to 69.6, SD 2.2 out of 100). Overall, the participants found the intervention acceptable, with scores improving from wave 1 (24.2, SD 1.1 out of 30) to wave 2 (26.3, SD 2.1 out of 30). The personalized multimodal exercise prescription and computer-tailored education were seen as valuable. After wave 1, website navigation videos were added, medical terminology was simplified, and a telehealth component was included after expert real-time telehealth support was requested. Wave 2 changes included the added variety for aerobic exercise modes, reduced computer-tailoring question loads, and improved consistency of style and grammar. Finally, the participants could replicate the resistance exercise videos to a satisfactory level as judged by the movement screen however, additional technique cueing within the videos is recommended to address safety concerns. The acceptability and usability of ExerciseGuide were deemed satisfactory. Various problems were identified and resolved. Notably, the participants requested the inclusion of personalized expert support through telehealth. The resistance training algorithms were shown to provide appropriate content safely, and the users could replicate the exercise technique unaided to a satisfactory level. This study has optimized the ExerciseGuide intervention for further investigation in this population. Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR) ACTRN12618001978257 anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?ACTRN=12618001978257
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-08-2023
DOI: 10.1002/HPJA.784
Abstract: Interventions targeting health care professionals' behaviours are assumed to support them in learning how to give behavioural advice to patients, but such assumptions are rarely examined. This study investigated whether key assumptions were held regarding the design and delivery of physical activity interventions among health care professionals in applied health care settings. This study was part of the ‘Physical Activity Tailored intervention in Hospital Staff’ randomised controlled trial of three variants of a web‐based intervention. We used data‐prompted interviews to explore whether the interventions were delivered and operated as intended in health care professionals working in four hospitals in Western Australia ( N = 25). Data were analysed using codebook thematic analysis. Five themes were constructed: (1) health care professionals' perceived role in changing patients' health behaviours (2) work‐related barriers to physical activity intervention adherence (3) health care professionals' use of behaviour change techniques (4) contamination between groups and (5) perceptions of intervention tailoring. The intervention was not experienced by participants, nor did they implement the intervention guidance, in the way we expected. For ex le, not all health care professionals felt responsible for providing behaviour change advice, time and shift constraints were key barriers to intervention participation, and contamination effects were difficult to avoid. Our study challenges assumptions about how health care professionals respond to behaviour change advice and possible knock‐on benefits for patients. Applying our learnings may improve the implementation of health promotion interventions in health care settings.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 25-07-2015
DOI: 10.1080/08964289.2015.1017549
Abstract: Physical activity is partly regulated by automatic processes such as habits (ie, well-learned responses to cues), but it remains unclear what cues trigger these processes. This study examined the relations of physical activity automaticity and behavior with the consistency of people, activity, routine, location, time, and mood cues present upon initiation of physical activity behavior. Australian adults (N = 1,244, 627 female, M age = 55 years) reported their physical activity automaticity, behavior, and the degree of consistency of these cues each time they start a physical activity behavior. Multiple regression models, which accounted for gender and age, revealed that more consistent routine and mood cues were linked to more physical activity automaticity whereas more consistent time and people cues were linked to more physical activity behavior. Interventions may more effectively translate into long-lasting physical activity habits if they draw people's attention to the salient cues of time, people, routine, and mood.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.JNEB.2015.12.006
Abstract: Because physical inactivity and unhealthy diets are highly prevalent, there is a need for cost-effective interventions that can reach large populations. Electronic health (eHealth) and mobile health (mHealth) solutions have shown promising outcomes and have expanded rapidly in the past decade. The purpose of this report is to provide an overview of the state of the evidence for the use of eHealth and mHealth in improving physical activity and nutrition behaviors in general and special populations. The role of theory in eHealth and mHealth interventions is addressed, as are methodological issues. Key recommendations for future research in the field of eHealth and mHealth are provided.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 11-08-2014
DOI: 10.1111/ECC.12225
Abstract: This observational study aimed to adapt a computer-tailored step advice for the general population into a feasible advice for breast cancer survivors and to test its usability. First, several adaptations were made to the original design (adding cancer-related physical activity (PA) barriers and beliefs, and self-management strategies to improve survivors' personal control). Second, the adapted advice was evaluated in two phases: (1) a usability testing in healthy women (n = 3) and survivors (n = 6) and (2) a process evaluation during 3 weeks in breast cancer survivors (n = 8). Preliminary usability testing revealed no problems during logging-in however, three survivors misinterpreted some questions. After refining the questionnaire and advice, survivors evaluated the advice as interesting, attractive to read, comprehensible and credible. Inactive survivors found the advice novel, but too long. The process evaluation indicated that the majority of the women (n = 5/8) reported increased steps. Monitoring step counts by using a pedometer was perceived as an important motivator to be more active. To conclude, this study provides initial support for the usability and acceptability of a computer-tailored pedometer-based PA advice for breast cancer survivors. After testing efficacy and effectiveness of this intervention, this tool can broaden the reach of PA promotion in breast cancer survivors.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 03-06-2019
DOI: 10.2196/12484
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2013
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2018
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 10-05-2021
Abstract: This study investigates changes in willingness to vaccinate against COVID-19 and the effect of the extended restrictions in metropolitan Victoria on this change. Longitudinal and repeated cross-sectional data were collected from online surveys distributed in April, between July and August, and December 2020. Australian adults who were ≥18 years old were recruited through email lists, social media networks, and paid Facebook advertisement. Willingness to vaccinate against COVID-19 was self-reported. The results showed that participants were more willing to vaccinate if the vaccine was safe at survey 1 (longitudinal: adjusted OR (aOR) = 1.88, 95%CI = 1.38, 2.56 cross-sectional: aOR = 3.73, 95%CI = 2.55, 5.45) and survey 2 (longitudinal: aOR = 1.54, 95%CI = 1.19, 2.00 cross-sectional: aOR = 2.48, 1.67, 3.67), compared to survey 3. The change in willingness to vaccinate if the vaccine was safe and effective was not significant for those in Metropolitan Victoria but was for those living in other Australian locations at survey 1 (OR = 2.13, 95%CI = 1.64, 2.76) and survey 2 (OR = 1.62, 95%CI = 1.30, 2.01), compared to survey 3. Willingness to vaccinate even if a vaccine had not been proven safe decreased at survey 3 (OR = 2.02, 95%CI = 1.14, 3.57) for those living in Metropolitan Victoria. In conclusion willingness to vaccinate against COVID-19 decreased over time among Australians, except for those living in metropolitan Victoria, where an additional strict and prolonged lockdown was implemented around the time of survey 2. Either the experience of the lockdown, or the presence of the COVID-19 virus itself had a positive influence on participants’ willingness to vaccinate, even if such a vaccine was not yet proven to be safe and effective.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2018.11.017
Abstract: Diet quality, physical activity, alcohol use, smoking, sleep and sitting-time are behaviors known to influence health. The aims of this study were to identify how these behaviors co-occur to form distinct health-behavior patterns, and to investigate the relationship between these patterns, and mental and self-rated health. Members of the Australian 10,000 Steps project were invited to participate in an online survey in November-December 2011. The participants self-reported demographic and behavioral characteristics (fruit and vegetable intake, fast food, soft drink and alcohol consumption, smoking, physical activity, sitting-time and sleep), frequency of mental distress and self-rated health. Latent Class Analysis was used to identify health-behavior patterns. Latent class regression was used to examine relationships between behavior patterns, mental and self-rated health, and socio-demographic and economic factors. Data were analyzed in October 2017. Complete datasets were obtained from 10,638 participants. Four latent classes were identified, characterized by 'Low-Risk Behavior', 'Poor Sleep, Low-Risk Daytime Behavior', 'Sound Sleep, High-Risk Daytime Behavior' and 'High-Risk Behavior'. The latter two classes, both characterized by high-risk daytime behaviors, were associated with poor self-rated health. Participants in classes with high-risk daytime behaviors were more likely to be younger, non-partnered, non-university educated, from lower income households and work longer hours. Classes characterized by poor sleep quality were associated with higher frequency of mental distress. Findings suggest that experiencing poor sleep is partly independent of daytime behaviors, demographic and socioeconomic factors, but has a strong association with mental health.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 07-03-2021
Abstract: igital health interventions such as tailored websites are emerging as valuable tools to provide in idualized exercise and behavioral change information for in iduals diagnosed with cancer. he aim of this study is to investigate and iteratively refine the acceptability and usability of a web-based exercise intervention ( i ExerciseGuide /i ) for men with metastatic prostate cancer and determine how well in iduals can replicate the video-based exercise prescription. laboratory-based multi-methods design was used, incorporating questionnaires, think-aloud tests, interviews, and movement screening among 11 men aged 63 to 82 years with metastatic prostate cancer. Overall, 9 participants were undergoing androgen deprivation therapy, and 2 were completing chemotherapy. Data were collected in two waves, with changes made for quality improvement after participant 5. he intervention’s usability score was deemed moderate overall but improved after modifications (from 60, SD 2.9 to 69.6, SD 2.2 out of 100). Overall, the participants found the intervention acceptable, with scores improving from wave 1 (24.2, SD 1.1 out of 30) to wave 2 (26.3, SD 2.1 out of 30). The personalized multimodal exercise prescription and computer-tailored education were seen as valuable. After wave 1, website navigation videos were added, medical terminology was simplified, and a telehealth component was included after expert real-time telehealth support was requested. Wave 2 changes included the added variety for aerobic exercise modes, reduced computer-tailoring question loads, and improved consistency of style and grammar. Finally, the participants could replicate the resistance exercise videos to a satisfactory level as judged by the movement screen however, additional technique cueing within the videos is recommended to address safety concerns. he acceptability and usability of i ExerciseGuide /i were deemed satisfactory. Various problems were identified and resolved. Notably, the participants requested the inclusion of personalized expert support through telehealth. The resistance training algorithms were shown to provide appropriate content safely, and the users could replicate the exercise technique unaided to a satisfactory level. This study has optimized the i ExerciseGuide /i intervention for further investigation in this population. ustralian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR) ACTRN12618001978257 anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?ACTRN=12618001978257
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-06-2010
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 16-11-2018
DOI: 10.2196/JMIR.9397
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: Informa UK Limited
Date: 24-02-2021
DOI: 10.1080/09286586.2021.1893341
Abstract: To investigate the relationship between falls, physical activity, and other socio-demographic and visual factors among cataract patients in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. A cross-sectional study was conducted between April and November 2018. Patients presenting to two hospitals with age-related unilateral or bilateral cataract, aged ≥50 years, literate, and scheduled for a first-eye cataract surgery were recruited. The International Physical Activity Questionnaires short form was used to measure physical activity. Visual disability score was self-reported using the Catquest-9SF. The number of falls in the last 12 months prior to data collection were self-reported. Visual acuity and contrast sensitivity were measured using standard protocols. A total of 340 patients had complete data, the majority of whom were women (62.4%), living with a spouse (66.5%), had an education level of Grade 5 or below (68.2%), and a monthly income from medium to high (58.5%). Average age was 65.7 years. A total of 135 falls were reported in the last 12 months with 27.6% reporting ≥1 fall and 7.1% ≥2 falls. Persons with high (adjusted Prevalence Ratio (aPR) = 2.4, 95%CI = 1.2, 4.7) and low (aPR = 2.4, 95%CI = 1.2, 4.6) physical activity levels had more falls compared to those with moderate levels. Women (aPR = 1.7, 95%CI = 1.04, 2.7) and those with medium income (aPR = 2.9, 95%CI = 1.2, 6.9) were more likely to fall. Poor binocular logMAR visual acuity with habitual correction (aPR = 2.3, 95%CI = 1.1, 4.6) and poor visual disability scores (aPR = 1.4, 95%CI = 1.02, 2.0) were associated with falling. Patients with a moderate level of physical activity were less likely to fall compared to those with low or high levels although this U-shape relationship needs to be further investigated in prospective interventional trials. Men and those with high monthly income, better visual acuity and visual disability score were also less likely to fall. Cataract patients might be advised to maintain a moderate level of physical activity while waiting for surgery. Strategies to prevent falls may also prioritise cataract surgery for women and those with lower income.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 28-11-2022
DOI: 10.1177/13591053221137184
Abstract: This study aims to compare the effectiveness, engagement, usability, and acceptability of a web-based, computer-tailored physical activity intervention (provided as video or text) between participants who were matched or mismatched to their self-reported learning style (visual and auditory delivery through video or text-based information). Generalised linear mixed models were conducted to compare time (baseline, 3 months) by group (matched, mismatched) on ActiGraph-GT3X+measured moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and steps. Generalised linear models were used to compare group (matched and mismatched) on session completion, time-on-site, usability, and acceptability. MVPA and steps improved from baseline to 3-months, however this did not differ between participants whose learning styles were matched or mismatched to the intervention they received. Session completion, time-on-site, usability, and acceptability did not differ between matched and mismatched participants. Therefore, aligning intervention delivery format to learning style is unlikely to influence intervention effectiveness or engagement.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 03-05-2013
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 11-01-2012
DOI: 10.2196/JMIR.1792
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 18-12-2018
DOI: 10.2196/11321
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 02-11-2017
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 02-2015
Abstract: A better understanding of how occupational indicators influence physical activity levels will aid the design of workplace interventions. Cross-sectional data were collected from 1194 participants through a telephone interview in Queensland, Australia. The IPAQ-long was used to measure physical activity. Multiple logistic regression was applied to examine associations. Of participants, 77.9% were employed full-time, 32.3% had professional jobs, 35.7% were engaged in shift work, 39.5% had physically-demanding jobs, and 66.1% had high physical activity levels. Participants with a physicallydemanding job were less likely to have low total (OR = 0.25, 95% CI = 0.17 to 0.38) and occupational (OR = 0.17, 95% CI = 0.12 to 0.25) physical activity. Technical and trade workers were less likely to report low total physical activity (OR = 0.44, 95% CI = 0.20 to 0.97) compared with white-collar workers. Part-time (OR = 1.74, 95% CI = 1.15 to 2.64) and shift workers (OR = 1.86, 95% CI = 1.21 to 2.88) were more likely to report low leisure-time activity. Overall, the impact of different occupational indicators on physical activity was not strong. As expected, the greatest proportion of total physical activity was derived from occupational physical activity. No evidence was found for compensation effects whereby physically-demanding occupations lead to less leisure-time physical activity or vice versa. This study demonstrates that workplaces are important settings to intervene, and that there is scope to increase leisure-time physical activity irrespective of occupational background.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 05-05-2022
DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2022.2067357
Abstract: This study aimed to assess occupational health professionals' application of the Goldilocks Work Paradigm in redesigning jobs for healthier physical behaviours while maintaining productivity. During a group simulation exercise, participants (
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2016
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-04-2013
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 17-08-2014
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 24-08-2018
DOI: 10.2196/10003
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2007
DOI: 10.1016/J.AMEPRE.2007.02.041
Abstract: Evidence-based physical activity interventions that can be delivered to large numbers of adults at an acceptable cost are a public health priority website-delivered programs have this potential. The purpose of this study was to systematically review the research findings and outcomes of website-delivered physical activity interventions and to identify relationships of intervention attributes with behavioral outcomes. A structured search of PubMed, Medline, PsycInfo, and Web of Science was conducted for intervention studies published up to July 2006. Studies included in the review were those that (1) used websites or e-mail, (2) had physical activity behavior as an outcome measure, (3) had randomized controlled or quasi-experimental designs, (4) targeted adults, and (5) were published in English. Of the fifteen studies reviewed, improvement in physical activity was reported in eight. Better outcomes were identified when interventions had more than five contacts with participants and when the time to follow-up was short ( 6 months, 40%) follow-up. There were no clear associations of outcomes with other intervention attributes. A little over half of the controlled trials of website-delivered physical activity interventions have reported positive behavioral outcomes. However, intervention effects were short lived, and there was limited evidence of maintenance of physical activity changes. Research is needed to identify elements that can improve behavioral outcomes, the maintenance of change and the engagement and retention of participants larger and more representative study s les are also needed.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 05-10-2015
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.GAITPOST.2013.06.013
Abstract: The aim of this study was to evaluate the interdevice variability in baseline signal magnitude of the ActivPAL3 (PALTechnologies, Glasgow, UK) activity monitor. Twenty consecutively numbered ActivPAL3 triaxial physical activity monitors were assessed for baseline signal magnitudes oriented in the X (vertical standing), Y (side lying), and Z (lying flat) planes. Data was recorded for 60s in each orientation and the three orthogonal axes were analysed for baseline signal magnitude each orientation. Our batch of devices demonstrated approximately 6.6% difference in raw acceleration calibration values compared to manufacturer specifications. Analysis of interdevice variability revealed three devices which exhibited baseline signal variability greater than 1.96 SD of the group mean. The impact of interdevice variability in baseline signal magnitude on data collection is unknown, however, supports the argument in the literature for the systematic checking of interdevice variability as routine maintenance.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 03-07-2015
DOI: 10.1080/17437199.2015.1022901
Abstract: Amidst strong efforts to promote the therapeutic benefits of physical activity for reducing depression and anxiety in clinical populations, little focus has been directed towards the mental health benefits of activity for non-clinical populations. The objective of this meta-meta-analysis was to systematically aggregate and quantify high-quality meta-analytic findings of the effects of physical activity on depression and anxiety for non-clinical populations. A systematic search identified eight meta-analytic outcomes of randomised trials that investigated the effects of physical activity on depression or anxiety. The subsequent meta-meta-analyses were based on a total of 92 studies with 4310 participants for the effect of physical activity on depression and 306 study effects with 10,755 participants for the effect of physical activity on anxiety. Physical activity reduced depression by a medium effect [standardised mean difference (SMD) = -0.50 95% CI: -0.93 to -0.06] and anxiety by a small effect (SMD = -0.38 95% CI: -0.66 to -0.11). Neither effect showed significant heterogeneity across meta-analyses. These findings represent a comprehensive body of high-quality evidence that physical activity reduces depression and anxiety in non-clinical populations.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 03-2022
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPHTH-2021-000744
Abstract: To evaluate visual outcomes and complications of infantile cataract surgery through a 1-year follow-up period in a real world scenario. Prospective observational study evaluating infants with cataract undergoing surgery. We analysed 173 eyes of 97 infants (76 bilateral) median age 18.7 weeks, (IQR: 11–33.9 weeks). Toxoplasmosis, rubella, cytomegalovirus and herpes infection was the most common aetiology in both unilateral 10 (47.6%) and bilateral 43 (55.1%) cases, followed by familial and syndromic cases. Fifty-four eyes (29.5%) received primary intraocular lens (IOL) implantation. Seventy-five infants (76%) were less than 6 months of age. At 1-year follow-up, mean log MAR best-corrected visual acuity was 1.00±0.08 and 1.21±0.03 in unilateral and bilateral cases respectively (p=0.012), which was not statistically significant. At 1-year follow-up, pseudophakic(1.09±0.05) eyes had a better mean log MAR visual acuity comparing aphakes(1.24±0.04) clinically but was not statistically significant after the application of Bonferroni correction (p=0.012). The mean myopic shift of −2.9 D±0.39 and −4.53 D±0.55 over 1 year was noted in aphakes and pseudophakes, respectively (p=0.016). Visual axis opacification and glaucoma were the most common complications noted in pseudophakes and aphakes, respectively. Primary IOL implantation in selected cases of infantile cataract is a feasible option, particularly in cases when optimal aftercare and refractive rehabilitation of aphakia are not possible.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 20-11-2015
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 24-09-2015
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2013.12.011
Abstract: This study examined the effectiveness of a fully automated web-based programme to increase physical activity in adults with Type 2 diabetes. Between May and July 2010, participants were randomly allocated into either a 12-week intervention (n=195) or a control (n=202) group. Participants were adults diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, residing in Australia. Participants were assessed at baseline, 12 and 36weeks. The primary physical activity outcome was self-reported minutes of total physical activity. Secondary physical activity outcomes included minutes spent walking, and engaged in moderate, and vigorous physical activity. Additional measures included website satisfaction and website usage. The intervention consisted of a 12-week web-based physical activity intervention developed based on the Theory of Planned Behavior and self-management framework. Data were analysed from 2011 to 2012. There was a significant group-by-time interaction (X(2) (df=1)=6.37, p<.05) for total physical activity favouring the intervention group d=0.11, for those who completed the intervention, however this was not significant in the intention-to-treat analysis d=0.01. The intervention yielded high website satisfaction and usage. In general, there is some evidence for the effectiveness of web-based interventions for improving physical activity levels however it is clear that maintaining improvements remains an issue.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 06-08-2016
DOI: 10.1007/S11764-016-0565-0
Abstract: The purpose of the study is to investigate the impact of differing delivery schedules of computer-tailored physical activity modules on engagement and physical activity behaviour change in a web-based intervention targeting breast cancer survivors. Insufficiently active breast cancer survivors (n = 492) were randomly assigned to receive one of the following intervention schedules over 12 weeks: a three-module intervention delivered monthly, a three-module intervention delivered weekly or a single module intervention. Engagement with the website (number of logins, time on site, modules viewed, action plans completed) was measured using tracking software. Other outcomes (website acceptability, physical activity behaviour) were assessed using online surveys. Physical activity outcomes were analysed using regression models for both study completers and when applying intention-to-treat (using multiple imputation). Completers allocated to the monthly module group rated the intervention higher (b = 2.2 95 % CI = 0.02-4.53) on acceptability and had higher levels of resistance-training (IRR = 1.88, 95 % CI = 1.16-3.04) than those in the single module group. When accounting for missing data, these differences were no longer significant. The completion of at least two action plans was higher among those allocated to the monthly module group compared to those in the weekly module group (53 vs 40 %, p = 0.02) though the completion of at least two modules was higher in the weekly module group compared to the monthly module group (60 vs 46 % p = 0.01). There were no other significant between group differences observed. This study provides preliminary evidence that web-based computer-tailored interventions can be used to increase physical activity among breast cancer survivors. Further, there were some outcome differences based on how the tailored modules were delivered, with the most favourable outcomes observed in the monthly delivery group. This study will be useful for informing the design of future web-based interventions targeting breast cancer survivors.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-10-2016
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 27-05-2016
DOI: 10.2196/RESPROT.4826
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-07-1970
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2010
DOI: 10.1111/J.1753-6405.2010.00521.X
Abstract: Regular monitoring of population levels of physical activity is an effective way to assess change over time towards meeting public health recommendations. The objective of this study was to determine physical activity trends in Central Queensland over the period 2002 to 2008. Data was obtained from the Central Queensland Social Survey (CQSS) conducted annually from 2002 to 2008. A total s le of 8,936 adults aged 18 and over participated in seven cross-sectional surveys. Physical activity was measured using the Active Australia Questionnaire. Binary logistic regression was used to examine trends in sufficient physical activity. Averaged over all survey years 46.5% of study participants met national physical activity guidelines. A small significant upward trend was found for meeting physical activity recommendations across all years (OR=1.03 95%CI=1.01-1.05), indicating that the odds of meeting the guidelines increased by an average of 3% per year from 2002 to 2008. Slightly more men than women met the activity guidelines (ns) however a significant positive trend in achieving sufficient activity levels was present in women only (4%). Although an increasing trend for sufficient physical activity was observed, overall physical activity levels in Central Queensland remain suboptimal and more efforts to increase physical activity are needed. The gender differences in physical activity trends indicate that men and women might need to be targeted differently in health promotion messages. The continuous monitoring of population levels of physical activity in Australia, which allow both state specific and international comparisons, is needed.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 28-09-2021
DOI: 10.3390/S21196472
Abstract: Background: Clinically valid and reliable simulated inspiratory sounds were required for the development and evaluation of a new therapeutic respiratory exergame application (i.e., QUT Inspire). This smartphone application virtualises incentive spirometry, a longstanding respiratory therapy technique. Objectives: Inspiratory flows were simulated using a 3 litre calibration syringe and validated using clinical reference devices. Syringe flow nozzles of decreasing diameter were applied to model the influence of mouth shape on audible sound levels generated. Methods: A library of calibrated audio inspiratory sounds was created to determine the reliability and range of inspiratory sound detection at increasing distances separating the sound source and smartphones running the app. Results: Simulated inspiratory sounds were reliably detected by the new application at higher air inflows (high, medium), using smaller mouth diameters ( mm) and where smartphones were held proximal (≤5 cm) to the mouth (or at distances up to 50 cm for higher airflows). Performance was comparable for popular smartphone types and using different phone orientations (i.e., held horizontally, at 45° or 90°). Conclusions: These observations inform future application refinements, including prompts to reduce mouth diameter, increase inspiratory flow and maintain proximity to the phone to optimise sound detection. This library of calibrated inspiratory sounds offers reproducible non-human reference data suitable for development, evaluation and regression testing of a therapeutic respiratory exergame application for smartphones.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 14-08-2017
DOI: 10.2196/IJMR.6685
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 07-2020
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2020-040613
Abstract: Prolonged sitting and inadequate sleep are a growing concern in society and are associated with impairments to cardiometabolic health and cognitive performance. However, the combined effect of prolonged sitting and inadequate sleep on measures of health and cognitive performance are unknown. In addition, the circadian disruption caused by shiftwork may further impact workers’ cardiometabolic health and cognitive performance. This protocol paper outlines the methodology for exploring the impact of simultaneous exposure to prolonged sitting, sleep restriction and circadian disruption on cardiometabolic and cognitive performance outcomes. This between-subjects study will recruit 208 males and females to complete a 7-day in-laboratory experimental protocol (1 Adaptation Day, 5 Experimental Days and 1 Recovery Day). Participants will be allocated to one of eight conditions that include all possible combinations of the following: dayshift or nightshift, sitting or breaking up sitting and 5 hour or 9 hour sleep opportunity. On arrival to the laboratory, participants will be provided with a 9 hour baseline sleep opportunity (22:00 to 07:00) and complete five simulated work shifts (09:00 to 17:30 in the dayshift condition and 22:00 to 06:30 in the nightshift condition) followed by a 9 hour recovery sleep opportunity (22:00 to 07:00). During the work shifts participants in the sitting condition will remain seated, while participants in the breaking up sitting condition will complete 3-min bouts of light-intensity walking every 30 mins on a motorised treadmill. Sleep opportunities will be 9 hour or 5 hour. Primary outcome measures include continuously measured interstitial blood glucose, heart rate and blood pressure, and a cognitive performance and self-perceived capacity testing battery completed five times per shift. Analyses will be conducted using linear mixed models. The CQUniversity Human Ethics Committee has approved this study (0000021914). All participants who have already completed the protocol have provided informed consent. Study findings will be disseminated via scientific publications and conference presentations. This study has been registered on Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (12619001516178) and is currently in the pre-results stage.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2012.05.003
Abstract: Associations between the combined effect of physical activity and screen based activities on health related quality of life remain largely undetermined. During 2008-2010, cross-sectional data for self-reported health related quality of life, physical activity, and screen-time were collected for 3796 Australian adults. Logistic regression was conducted to examine associations for six combinations of physical activity (none, insufficient, and sufficient), and screen-time (low and high) on health related quality of life. In comparison to the reference category (sufficient physical activity and low screen-time) men and women who reported no physical activity and either high (OR=4.52, 95% CI 2.82-7.25) or low (OR=2.29, 95% CI 1.37-3.80) screen-time, were significantly more likely to report over 14 unhealthy days. Men reporting either no physical activity and high (OR=3.15, 95% CI 1.92-5.15), or low (OR=2.17, 95% CI 1.30-3.63) screen-time insufficient physical activity and high (OR=1.68, 95% CI 1.08-2.60), or low (OR=1.79, 95% CI 1.14-2.82) screen-time were more likely to rate their health as poor or fair. In women this was significant for those who reported no physical activity and high screen-time (OR=1.98, 95% CI, 1.19-3.31). Results suggest that the combination of no physical activity and high screen-time demonstrated the greatest negative impact on health related quality of life.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 26-08-2020
Abstract: Background: This study compared the efficacy of two multi-component m-health interventions with a wait-list control group on body weight (primary outcome), and secondary outcomes of cardiovascular risk factors, lifestyle behaviours, and mental health. Methods: Three-arm randomised controlled trial (Enhanced: physical activity, diet, sleep, Traditional: physical activity, diet, Control) with assessments conducted at baseline, 6 and 12 months. Participants (n = 116) were overweight or obese adults aged 19–65 (M = 44.5 [SD = 10.5]). The 6-month intervention was delivered via a smartphone app providing educational materials, goal-setting, self-monitoring and feedback, and also included one face-to-face dietary consultation, a Fitbit and scales. The trial was prospectively registered and conducted between May 2017 and September 2018. Group differences on primary and secondary outcomes were examined between the Pooled Intervention groups (Pooled Intervention = Enhanced and Traditional) and Control groups, and then between Enhanced and Traditional groups. Results: Nineteen participants (16.4%) formally withdrew from the trial. Compared with the Control group, average body weight of the Pooled Intervention group did not differ at 6 (between-group difference = −0.92, (95% CI −3.33, 1.48)) or 12 months (0.00, (95% CI −2.62, 2.62)). Compared with the Control group, the Pooled Intervention group significantly increased resistance training (OR = 7.83, (95% CI 1.08, 56.63)) and reduced energy intake at 6 months (−1037.03, (−2028.84, −45.22)), and improved insomnia symptoms at 12 months (−2.59, (−4.79, −0.39)). Compared with the Traditional group, the Enhanced group had increased waist circumferences (2.69, (0.20, 5.18)) and sedentary time at 6 months (105.66, (30.83, 180.48)), and improved bed time variability at 12 months (−1.08, (−1.86, −0.29)). No other significant differences were observed between groups. Conclusions: Relative to Controls, the Pooled Intervention groups did not differ on body weight but improved resistance training, and reduced energy intake and insomnia symptom severity. No additional weight loss was apparent when targeting improvements in physical activity, diet and sleep in combination compared with physical activity and diet.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 09-06-2015
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: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 30-11-2015
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 08-12-2016
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 30-08-2022
Abstract: Health behavior interventions implemented in Asian countries often lack economic evaluations that effectively address the problems of type 2 diabetes mellitus. This review systematically assessed the existing literature on economic evaluation of health behavior interventions to prevent and manage type 2 diabetes mellitus for people living in Asian countries. Eligible studies were identified through a search of six bibliographic databases, namely, PubMed, Scopus, Public Health Database by ProQuest, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature Complete, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Randomized controlled trials of health behavior interventions and studies published in the English language from January 2000 to May 2022 were included in the review. The search yielded 3867 records, of which 11 studies were included in the review. All included studies concluded that health behavior interventions were cost-effective. Eight of these studies undertook an evaluation from a health system perspective, two studies used both societal and health system perspectives, and one study utilized a societal and multi-payer perspective. This review identified the time horizon, direct and indirect medical costs, and discount rates as the most important considerations in determining cost effectiveness. These findings have implications in extending health behavior interventions to prevent and manage type 2 diabetes mellitus in low-resource settings, and are likely to yield the most promising outcomes for people with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 03-2018
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2017-019516
Abstract: Fly-in fly-out (FIFO) work involves commuting long distances to the worksite and living in provided accommodation for 1–4 weeks while on shift. While the potentially detrimental impact of FIFO work on the health and well-being of workers has been documented, little attention has been paid to how workers, or their partners, cope with this impact. This study sought to investigate how workers and their partners negotiate the impact of FIFO on their mental health and well-being. The study design was qualitative. FIFO workers and partners responded to open-ended questions on concerns about the FIFO lifestyle and the support they use. Australian FIFO workers and partners responded to the questions via email. Participants were 34 FIFO workers (25 men, M age=41 years) and 26 partners of FIFO workers (26 women, M age=40 years). Participant-validated thematic analysis generated three main themes: managing multiple roles, impact on mental health and well-being, and social support needs. Results revealed difficulties in adjusting between the responsibilities of perceptually distinct on-shift and off-shift lives, and managing potential psychological distance that develops while workers are on site. Participants emphasised the importance of maintaining quality communication and support from family members. Workers and partners attempted to maintain mental health and well-being by regularly engaging with support networks, although many felt organisational support was tokenistic, stigmatised or lacking. Recommendations for enhancing support provided by FIFO organisations are offered. In particular, organisations should emphasise the importance of good mental health and well-being, maintain transparency regarding potential challenges of FIFO lifestyles, and offer professional support for managing multiple social roles and effective communication.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2012
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 15-10-2016
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 12-2018
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2018-023631
Abstract: Fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) work involves long commutes, living on-site for consecutive days and returning home between shifts. This unique type of work requires constant transitioning between the roles and routines of on-shift versus off-shift days. This study aims to examine health behaviour patterns of FIFO workers and FIFO partners during on-shift and off-shift time frames. This study used ecological momentary assessment and multilevel modelling to examine daily health behaviours. FIFO workers and FIFO partners from across Australia responded to daily online surveys for up to 7 days of on-shift and up to 7 days of off-shift time frames. Participants included 64 FIFO workers and 42 FIFO worker partners. Workers and partners reported poorer sleep and nutrition quality for on-shift compared with off-shift days. Both workers and partners exercised less, smoked more cigarettes, took more physical health medication and drank less alcohol during on-shift compared with off-shift days. FIFO organisations should consider infrastructure changes and support services to enhance opportunities for quality sleep and nutrition, sufficient exercise, moderate alcohol consumption and cigarette cessation for workers on-site and their partners at home.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 26-11-2021
DOI: 10.2196/28577
Abstract: Behavioral eHealth and mobile health interventions have been moderately successful in increasing physical activity, although opportunities for further improvement remain to be discussed. Chatbots equipped with natural language processing can interact and engage with users and help continuously monitor physical activity by using data from wearable sensors and smartphones. However, a limited number of studies have evaluated the effectiveness of chatbot interventions on physical activity. This study aims to investigate the feasibility, usability, and effectiveness of a machine learning–based physical activity chatbot. A quasi-experimental design without a control group was conducted with outcomes evaluated at baseline and 6 weeks. Participants wore a Fitbit Flex 1 (Fitbit LLC) and connected to the chatbot via the Messenger app. The chatbot provided daily updates on the physical activity level for self-monitoring, sent out daily motivational messages in relation to goal achievement, and automatically adjusted the daily goals based on physical activity levels in the last 7 days. When requested by the participants, the chatbot also provided sources of information on the benefits of physical activity, sent general motivational messages, and checked participants’ activity history (ie, the step counts/min that were achieved on any day). Information about usability and acceptability was self-reported. The main outcomes were daily step counts recorded by the Fitbit and self-reported physical activity. Among 116 participants, 95 (81.9%) were female, 85 (73.3%) were in a relationship, 101 (87.1%) were White, and 82 (70.7%) were full-time workers. Their average age was 49.1 (SD 9.3) years with an average BMI of 32.5 (SD 8.0) kg/m2. Most experienced technical issues were due to an unexpected change in Facebook policy (93/113, 82.3%). Most of the participants scored the usability of the chatbot (101/113, 89.4%) and the Fitbit (99/113, 87.6%) as at least “OK.” About one-third (40/113, 35.4%) would continue to use the chatbot in the future, and 53.1% (60/113) agreed that the chatbot helped them become more active. On average, 6.7 (SD 7.0) messages/week were sent to the chatbot and 5.1 (SD 7.4) min/day were spent using the chatbot. At follow-up, participants recorded more steps (increase of 627, 95% CI 219-1035 steps/day) and total physical activity (increase of 154.2 min/week 3.58 times higher at follow-up 95% CI 2.28-5.63). Participants were also more likely to meet the physical activity guidelines (odds ratio 6.37, 95% CI 3.31-12.27) at follow-up. The machine learning–based physical activity chatbot was able to significantly increase participants’ physical activity and was moderately accepted by the participants. However, the Facebook policy change undermined the chatbot functionality and indicated the need to use independent platforms for chatbot deployment to ensure successful delivery of this type of intervention.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2014
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 16-10-2017
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2012
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 07-06-2020
Abstract: The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has enforced dramatic changes to daily living including economic and health impacts. Evidence for the impact of these changes on our physical and mental health and health behaviors is limited. We examined the associations between psychological distress and changes in selected health behaviors since the onset of COVID-19 in Australia. An online survey was distributed in April 2020 and included measures of depression, anxiety, stress, physical activity, sleep, alcohol intake and cigarette smoking. The survey was completed by 1491 adults (mean age 50.5 ± 14.9 years, 67% female). Negative change was reported for physical activity (48.9%), sleep (40.7%), alcohol (26.6%) and smoking (6.9%) since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Significantly higher scores in one or more psychological distress states were found for females, and those not in a relationship, in the lowest income category, aged 18–45 years, or with a chronic illness. Negative changes in physical activity, sleep, smoking and alcohol intake were associated with higher depression, anxiety and stress symptoms. Health-promotion strategies directed at adopting or maintaining positive health-related behaviors should be utilized to address increases in psychological distress during the pandemic. Ongoing evaluation of the impact of lifestyle changes associated with the pandemic is needed.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 28-10-2016
DOI: 10.1071/HE16026
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 08-11-2017
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.SLEEP.2012.12.007
Abstract: The relationship between short sleep and obesity remains unclear, and a possible explanation is that many studies have not included sufficient control variables in the analyses. We examined the association between sleep and being overweight or obese after adjusting for the confounding contributions of 17 variables. A random s le of 1162 Australian adults from three regional cities in central Queensland, Australia, participated in a telephone survey. A series of increasingly complex multinomial logistic regression models were employed to assess the association between short sleep ( or = 30 kg/m2), while controlling for several demographic, lifestyle, work, and health-related variables. The results suggested obesity was significantly associated with short sleep, age, male gender, lower education level, less physical activity, more sitting time, working longer hours, drinking more alcohol, having diabetes mellitus (DM), and having hypertension. Being overweight was significantly associated with age, male gender, smoking, and working more than 43hours per week. After adjustment of several confounding variables, a significant association between short sleep and obesity was obtained, but there was no association between short sleep and being overweight. Additional studies applying comprehensive analytic models and stronger research designs are needed to confirm our findings.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2012
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 13-09-2019
DOI: 10.1080/08964289.2017.1361902
Abstract: The most common reported barrier to physical activity is a lack of sufficient time. Just like most resources in economics are finite, so too is time within a day. We utilized a time-utility model to better understand how people are allocating time for physical activity. Additionally, we tested whether the allocation of physical activity time impacts people's perception of "lack of time" as a barrier for physical activity or their likelihood of being sufficiently physical active. Australian adults (N = 725 participants, 54% men) reported their time use throughout their day, perceived lack of time as a barrier to activity, and physical activity. Cluster analysis and χ
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 06-07-2020
Abstract: ngagement is positively associated with the effectiveness of digital health interventions. It is unclear whether tracking devices that automatically synchronize data (eg, Fitbit) produce different engagement levels compared with manually entering data. his study examines how different step logging methods in the freely available 10,000 Steps physical activity program differ according to age and gender and are associated with program engagement. subs le of users (n=22,142) of the free 10,000 Steps physical activity program were classified into one of the following user groups based on the step-logging method: Website Only (14,617/22,142, 66.01%), App Only (2100/22,142, 9.48%), Fitbit Only (1705/22,142, 7.7%), Web and App (2057/22,142, 9.29%), and Fitbit Combination (combination of web, app, and Fitbit 1663/22,142, 7.51%). Generalized linear regression and binary logistic regression were used to examine differences between user groups’ engagement and participation parameters. The time to nonusage attrition was assessed using Cox proportional hazards regression. pp Only users were significantly younger and Fitbit user groups had higher proportions of women compared with other groups. The following outcomes were significant and relative to the Website Only group. The App Only group had fewer website sessions (odds ratio [OR] −6.9, 95% CI −7.6 to −6.2), whereas the Fitbit Only (OR 10.6, 95% CI 8.8-12.3), Web and App (OR 1.5, 95% CI 0.4-2.6), and Fitbit Combination (OR 8.0 95% CI 6.2-9.7) groups had more sessions. The App Only (OR −0.7, 95% CI −0.9 to −0.4) and Fitbit Only (OR −0.5, 95% CI −0.7 to −0.2) groups spent fewer minutes on the website per session, whereas the Fitbit Combination group (OR 0.2, 95% CI 0.0-0.5) spent more minutes. All groups, except the Fitbit Combination group, viewed fewer website pages per session. The mean daily step count was lower for the App Only (OR −201.9, 95% CI −387.7 to −116.0) and Fitbit Only (OR −492.9, 95% CI −679.9 to −305.8) groups but higher for the Web and App group (OR 258.0, 95% CI 76.9-439.2). The Fitbit Only (OR 5.0, 95% CI 3.4-6.6), Web and App (OR 7.2, 95% CI 5.9-8.6), and Fitbit Combination (OR 15.6, 95% CI 13.7-17.5) groups logged a greater number of step entries. The App Only group was less likely (OR 0.65, 95% CI 0.46-0.94) and other groups were more likely to participate in Challenges. The mean time to nonusage attrition was 35 (SD 26) days and was lower than average in the Website Only and App Only groups and higher than average in the Web and App and Fitbit Combination groups. sing a Fitbit in combination with the 10,000 Steps app or website enhanced engagement with a real-world physical activity program. Integrating tracking devices that synchronize data automatically into real-world physical activity interventions is one strategy for improving engagement.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 30-04-2013
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 31-01-2018
Abstract: obile technologies have great potential to promote an active lifestyle in lower educated working young adults, an underresearched target group at a high risk of low activity levels. he objective of our study was to examine the effect and process evaluation of the newly developed evidence- and theory-based smartphone app “Active Coach” on the objectively measured total daily physical activity self-reported, context-specific physical activity and self-reported psychosocial variables among lower educated working young adults. e recruited 130 lower educated working young adults in this 2-group cluster randomized controlled trial and assessed outcomes at baseline, posttest (baseline+9 weeks), and follow-up (posttest+3 months). Intervention participants (n=60) used the Active Coach app (for 9 weeks) combined with a Fitbit activity tracker. Personal goals, practical tips, and educational facts were provided to encourage physical activity. The control group received print-based generic physical activity information. Both groups wore accelerometers for objective measurement of physical activity, and in idual interviews were conducted to assess the psychosocial variables and context-specific physical activity. Furthermore, intervention participants were asked process evaluation questions and generalized linear mixed models and descriptive statistics were applied. o significant intervention effects were found for objectively measured physical activity, self-reported physical activity, and self-reported psychosocial variables (all P .05). Intervention participants evaluated the Active Coach app and the combined use with the Fitbit wearable as self-explanatory (36/51, 70.6%), user friendly (40/51, 78.4%), and interesting (34/51, 66.7%). Throughout the intervention, we observed a decrease in the frequency of viewing graphical displays in the app (P .001) reading the tips, facts, and goals (P .05) and wearing the Fitbit wearable (P .001). Few intervention participants found the tips and facts motivating (10/41, 24.4%), used them to be physically active (8/41, 19.6%), and thought they were tailored to their lifestyle (7/41, 17.1%). he lack of significant intervention effects might be due to low continuous user engagement. Advice or feedback that was not perceived as adequately tailored and the difficulty to compete with many popular commercial apps on young people’s smartphones may be responsible for a decrease in the engagement. A stand-alone app does not seem sufficient to promote an active lifestyle among lower educated working young adults therefore, multicomponent interventions (using both technological and human support), as well as context-specific sensing to provide tailored advice, might be needed in this population. linicalTrials.gov NCT02948803 t2/show/results/NCT02948803 (Archived by WebCite at 1OPFwaoA)
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 08-04-2014
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2020
DOI: 10.1016/J.WOMBI.2018.12.007
Abstract: Most pregnant women report using the internet to source health information during pregnancy. However, little is known about the information presented on the internet and whether it is consistent with current evidence-based guidelines. Pregnancy is considered a risk period for women as it is associated with poorer health behaviours including an inadequate diet, decreased physical activity and reduced sleep. As a result, pregnant women and their unborn child are at a greater risk of adverse health outcomes. The purpose of this study was to review pregnancy related information about nutrition, physical activity and sleep provided on Australian government and leading industry body websites, and to compare this information to current evidence-based guidelines. A systematic online search was conducted to identify Australian Government, and leading industry websites that provided information on nutrition, physical activity, or sleep during pregnancy. The content of each website was reviewed and compared against current nutrition, physical activity and sleep guidelines. 27 government and leading industry websites were included in this study. 18 websites included nutritional information, none of which aligned 100% with guidelines. Nine websites included physical activity information, only one of which was 100% in accordance with guidelines. Two websites included information on sleep during pregnancy, however neither were in accordance with guidelines. Women are accessing information via the internet that is not in accordance with current evidence-based guidelines. These results call to attention the need for government and leading industry websites to review and update their website information in accordance with current evidence-based guidelines.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 21-04-2014
DOI: 10.1080/10810730.2014.894597
Abstract: Website-delivered interventions are increasingly used to deliver physical activity interventions, yet problems with engagement and retention result in reduced effectiveness. Hence, alternative modes of online intervention delivery need to be explored. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the acceptability and effectiveness of a computer-tailored physical activity intervention delivered on the Internet in 3 delivery modes: video, text, or both. Australian adults (N = 803), recruited through e-mail, were randomized into the three delivery modes and received personal physical activity advice. Intervention content was identical across groups. Repeated measures analyses of variance were used to compare the three groups regarding acceptability, website usability, and physical activity. Participants in the video group accepted the content of the physical activity advice significantly better (F = 5.59 p < .01), and spent significantly more time on the website (F = 21.19 p < .001) compared with the text and combination groups. Total physical activity improved significantly over time in all groups (F = 3.95 p < .01). Although the combination group increased physical activity the most, few significant differences between groups were observed. Providing video-tailored feedback has advantages over the conventional text-tailored interventions however, this study revealed few behavioral differences. More studies, examining alternative delivery modes, that can overcome the limitations of the present study, are needed.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 15-07-2015
DOI: 10.2196/JMIR.4339
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 30-08-2020
DOI: 10.1111/NHS.12643
Abstract: Lack of time, financial issues, and stressful clinical and educational environments in nursing studies promote higher intakes of convenience and fast foods loaded with fat and sugar, which are linked to reduced mental and physical health. In this study, we examined the dietary patterns of nursing students and their associated sociodemographic factors to inform the development of future health-promotion interventions. A total of 548 Bachelor of Nursing students were invited to complete a survey. Associations were explored using χ
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 14-02-2014
DOI: 10.2196/JMIR.2952
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 23-09-2020
DOI: 10.1007/S12529-020-09932-2
Abstract: Few in iduals with metastatic prostate cancer have access to prostate cancer-specific exercise support, despite demonstrated benefits. eHealth tools, such as websites, may be viable options for increasing access. To be effective and acceptable, future eHealth websites need to consider end-users' perspectives, capacity and needs. We aim to provide insight into these factors by exploring daily priorities, activities and health literacy of in iduals with metastatic prostate cancer and their perspectives towards exercise and exercise-based web-based eHealth interventions. Semi-structured interviews explored participant's experiences and understanding of their disease, exercise levels, advice received from health care providers, as well as acceptability of and suggested content for an eHealth tool. A thematic analysis was undertaken. Interviews were conducted with eighteen Australians (55-83 years M = 71.5, SD = 8.9) living with metastatic prostate cancer. Needing to perform daily responsibilities was a key priority. Participants had limited understanding of the benefits of prostate cancer-specific exercise, and less than half discussed exercise with their health team. Fourteen men felt they could report metastases location, but only four could provide detailed information, which has clinical implications for exercise prescription. A potential web-based intervention was considered acceptable by seventeen men for reasons such as affordability, accessibility and convenience. User-friendly design and practitioner support were important. Results identified key aspects useful for person-centred design of exercise programs. Participants were positive towards the proposed web-based tool and expressed the need for in idualised, user-friendly and reliable information with support from a professional embedded. Lastly, not all participants could accurately report metastasis locations.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2014
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 20-10-2014
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 18-03-2011
Abstract: People may incorrectly perceive that their body weight or Physical Activity (PA) meets health recommendations this provides an obstacle for change. In this study self-reported BMI and PA were assessed in relation to questions regarding perception of meeting weight and PA recommendations. Signal detection analysis was used to identify population subgroups. Study outcomes showed that 34.4 per cent of the 2535 adult participants underestimated weight health risks low income, male participants who believed they were sufficiently active underestimated weight health risks the most (52.6%). A total of 23.7 per cent of participants overestimated PA health benefits older age, low educated participants who did not believe their body weight was a health risk overestimated PA health benefits the most (58.3%). In conclusion, as weight and PA misperceptions are high, efforts are needed to reduce these misperceptions, so that behaviour change initiatives can be more effective.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.CCT.2018.08.007
Abstract: Poor sleep health is common and has a substantial negative health impact. Physical activity has been shown to improve sleep health. Many sleep interventions do not explicitly target physical activity, potentially limiting changes in activity and also sleep. Few intervention target those with poor sleep health but without a diagnosed disorder. This study aims to examine the efficacy of a combined physical activity and sleep intervention to improve sleep quality in middle-aged adults and its effect on physical activity, depression and quality of life. A three-arm randomised trial with a three-month primary time-point, will be conducted. Adults (N = 275) aged 40-65 years, who report physical inactivity and poor sleep quality, will be randomly allocated to either a combined Physical Activity and Sleep Health, a Sleep Health-Only or a Wait List Control group. The multi-component m-health intervention will be delivered using a smartphone/tablet "app", supplemented with email and SMS. Participants will use the app to access educational material, set goals, self-monitor and receive feedback about behaviours. Assessments will be conducted at baseline, three-month primary time-point and six-month follow-up. Generalized linear models using an ANCOVA (baseline-adjusted) approach, will be used to identify between-group differences in sleep quality, following an intention-to-treat principle. This study will determine whether the addition of a physical activity intervention enhances the effectiveness of a sleep intervention to improve sleep quality, relative to a sleep-only intervention, in physically inactive middle-aged adults who report poor sleep health, but without a sleep disorder.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 10-2018
DOI: 10.1111/AJR.12476
Abstract: To report that prevalence rates of osteoporosis and osteopenia differ according to different levels of remoteness in Queensland, Australia. Retrospective analysis of bone mineral density scans undertaken between April 2015 and April 2016. Mobile laboratory housing a dual energy X-ray absorptiometry in rural and remote Queensland. Four-thousand-four-hundred-and-twenty-seven referred in iduals 70 years of age or older. Bone mineral density (g cm A slightly higher percentage of women was screened and the percentage screened in both men and women decreased as levels of remoteness increased. Women in outer regional areas had significantly higher odds of having osteopenia over normal bone mineral density, compared to women in an urban setting. As the level of remoteness increased, there was a decrease in the percentage of men and women being screened to determine their risk of osteoporosis. Furthermore, the current data suggest that women in more remote areas have significantly lower bone density, compared to an urban female population. Finally, men and women have similar levels of osteopenia across Queensland, Australia.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2023
DOI: 10.1177/20552076231158033
Abstract: Vaccine hesitancy has been ranked by the World Health Organization among the top 10 threats to global health. With a surge in misinformation and conspiracy theories against vaccination observed during the COVID-19 pandemic, attitudes toward vaccination may be worsening. This study investigates trends in anti-vaccination attitudes during the COVID-19 pandemic and within the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Vaccine-related English tweets published between 1 January 2020 and 27 June 2021 were used. A deep learning model using a dynamic word embedding method, Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers (BERTs), was developed to identify anti-vaccination tweets. The classifier achieved a micro F1 score of 0.92. Time series plots and country maps were used to examine vaccination attitudes globally and within countries. Among 9,352,509 tweets, 232,975 (2.49%) were identified as anti-vaccination tweets. The overall number of vaccine-related tweets increased sharply after the implementation of the first vaccination round since November 2020 (daily average of 6967 before vs. 31,757 tweets after 9/11/2020). The number of anti-vaccination tweets increased after conspiracy theories spread on social media. Percentages of anti-vaccination tweets were 3.45%, 2.74%, 2.46%, and 1.86% for the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada, respectively. Strategies and information c aigns targeting vaccination misinformation may need to be specifically designed for regions with the highest anti-vaccination Twitter activity and when new vaccination c aigns are initiated.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 28-10-2020
Abstract: Background: Web-based computer-tailored interventions can assist prostate cancer survivors to become more physically active by providing personally relevant behaviour change support. This study aimed to explore how changing the website architecture (free choice vs. tunnelled) impacted engagement within a physical activity computer-tailored intervention targeting prostate cancer survivors. Methods: On a 2:2:1 ratio, 71 Australian prostate cancer survivors with local or locally advanced disease (mean age: 66.6 years ± 9.66) were randomised into either a free-choice (N = 27), tunnelled (N = 27) or minimal intervention control arm (N =17). The primary outcome was differences in usage of the physical activity self-monitoring and feedback modules between the two intervention arms. Differences in usage of other website components between the two intervention groups were explored as secondary outcomes. Further, secondary outcomes involving comparisons between all study groups (including the control) included usability, personal relevance, and behaviour change. Results: The average number of physical activity self-monitoring and feedback modules accessed was higher in the tunnelled arm (M 2.6 SD 1.3) compared to the free-choice arm (M 1.5 SD 1.4), p = 0.01. However, free-choice participants were significantly more likely to have engaged with the social support (p = 0.008) and habit formation (p = 0.003) ‘once-off’ modules compared to the standard tunnelled arm. There were no other between-group differences found for any other study outcomes. Conclusion: This study indicated that website architecture influences behavioural engagement. Further research is needed to examine the impact of differential usage on mechanisms of action and behaviour change.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 03-07-2018
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 18-06-2018
Abstract: eb-based interventions that provide personalized physical activity advice have demonstrated good effectiveness but rely on self-reported measures of physical activity, which are prone to overreporting, potentially reducing the accuracy and effectiveness of the advice provided. his study aimed to examine whether the effectiveness of a Web-based computer-tailored intervention could be improved by integrating Fitbit activity trackers. articipants received the 3-month TaylorActive intervention, which included 8 modules of theory-based, personally tailored physical activity advice and action planning. Participants were randomized to receive the same intervention either with or without Fitbit tracker integration. All intervention materials were delivered on the Web, and there was no face-to-face contact at any time point. Changes in physical activity (Active Australia Survey), sitting time (Workforce Sitting Questionnaire), and body mass index (BMI) were assessed 1 and 3 months post baseline. Advice acceptability, website usability, and module completion were also assessed. total of 243 Australian adults participated. Linear mixed model analyses showed a significant increase in total weekly physical activity (adjusted mean increase=163.2 95% CI 52.0-274.5 P=.004) and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (adjusted mean increase=78.6 95% CI 24.4-131.9 P=.004) in the Fitbit group compared with the non-Fitbit group at the 3-month follow-up. The sitting time and BMI decreased more in the Fitbit group, but no significant group × time interaction effects were found. The physical activity advice acceptability and the website usability were consistently rated higher by participants in the Fitbit group. Non-Fitbit group participants completed 2.9 (SD 2.5) modules, and Fitbit group participants completed 4.4 (SD 3.1) modules. ntegrating physical activity trackers into a Web-based computer-tailored intervention significantly increased intervention effectiveness. ustralian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12616001555448 www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=371793 (Archived by WebCite at 3ioTxQX2)
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2017
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 13-11-2014
DOI: 10.1017/S1463423614000498
Abstract: To explore GPs’ perceptions of their role in primary prevention, barriers experienced and willingness to accommodate an automated, computer-tailored intervention. General practice is an attractive setting for primary prevention of chronic disease. Due to constraints in time and knowledge it is underutilised. Telephone interviews of 13 GPs in Brisbane, Australia, whose patients were previously involved in a lifestyle change research project. Qualitative responses were grouped into themes. GPs perceived their role in lifestyle change as ‘educators’, ‘supporters’ and ‘prompters’. Smoking and physical activity were addressed more often than alcohol and salt intake. Longer lifestyle-focussed consultations and computer-generated reminders were suggested to overcome barriers. A computer-tailored approach was appreciated due to its minimal impact on practice routine. GPs understand their role in primary prevention but need help to overcome barriers. GP initiated consultations focusing on lifestyle and prevention along with computer support systems could improve capability for prevention in general practice.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 11-2015
DOI: 10.4278/AJHP.141204-CIT-605
Abstract: Despite their popularity and potential to promote health in large populations, the effectiveness of online social networks (e.g., Facebook) to improve health behaviors has been somewhat disappointing. Most of the research examining the effectiveness of such interventions has used randomized controlled trials (RCTs). It is asserted that the modest outcomes may be due to characteristics specific to both online social networks and RCTs. The highly controlled nature of RCTs stifles the dynamic nature of online social networks. Alternative and ecologically valid research designs that evaluate online social networks in real-life conditions are needed to advance the science in this area.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 18-05-2016
Abstract: This study aimed to identify and compare the demographic, health behavior, health status, and social media use correlates of online health-seeking behaviors among men and women. Cross-sectional self-report data were collected from 1,289 Australian adults participating in the Queensland Social Survey. Logistic regression analyses were used to identify the correlates of online health information seeking for men and women. Differences in the strength of the relation of these correlates were tested using equality of regression coefficient tests. For both genders, the two strongest correlates were social media use (men: odds ratio [ OR] = 2.57, 95% confidence interval [CI: 1.78, 3.71] women: OR = 2.93, 95% CI [1.92, 4.45]) and having a university education (men: OR = 3.63, 95% CI [2.37, 5.56] women: OR = 2.74, 95% CI [1.66, 4.51]). Not being a smoker and being of younger age were also associated with online health information seeking for both men and women. Reporting poor health and the presence of two chronic diseases were positively associated with online health seeking for women only. Correlates of help seeking online among men and women were generally similar, with exception of health status. Results suggest that similar groups of men and women are likely to access health information online for primary prevention purposes, and additionally that women experiencing poor health are more likely to seek health information online than women who are relatively well. These findings are useful for analyzing the potential reach of online health initiatives targeting both men and women.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 08-10-2015
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 12-04-2021
Abstract: Anti-vaccination attitudes have been an issue since the development of the first vaccines. The increasing use of social media as a source of health information may contribute to vaccine hesitancy due to anti-vaccination content widely available on social media, including Twitter. Being able to identify anti-vaccination tweets could provide useful information for formulating strategies to reduce anti-vaccination sentiments among different groups. This study aims to evaluate the performance of different natural language processing models to identify anti-vaccination tweets that were published during the COVID-19 pandemic. We compared the performance of the bidirectional encoder representations from transformers (BERT) and the bidirectional long short-term memory networks with pre-trained GLoVe embeddings (Bi-LSTM) with classic machine learning methods including support vector machine (SVM) and naïve Bayes (NB). The results show that performance on the test set of the BERT model was: accuracy = 91.6%, precision = 93.4%, recall = 97.6%, F1 score = 95.5%, and AUC = 84.7%. Bi-LSTM model performance showed: accuracy = 89.8%, precision = 44.0%, recall = 47.2%, F1 score = 45.5%, and AUC = 85.8%. SVM with linear kernel performed at: accuracy = 92.3%, Precision = 19.5%, Recall = 78.6%, F1 score = 31.2%, and AUC = 85.6%. Complement NB demonstrated: accuracy = 88.8%, precision = 23.0%, recall = 32.8%, F1 score = 27.1%, and AUC = 62.7%. In conclusion, the BERT models outperformed the Bi-LSTM, SVM, and NB models in this task. Moreover, the BERT model achieved excellent performance and can be used to identify anti-vaccination tweets in future studies.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2019.105773
Abstract: The mental health benefits of resistance training (RT) alone or beyond those provided by aerobic physical activity (PA) are unclear. This study aimed to determine the association between meeting recommendations for aerobic PA and/or RT, and symptoms of depression and/or anxiety. Participants were Australian female members of the 10,000 Steps project (n = 5180, 50.0 ± 11.5 years). Symptoms of depression and anxiety were determined using the Depression Anxiety Stress Score. Participants were grouped as 'depression only', 'anxiety only', 'co-occurring depression and anxiety' or 'neither depression nor anxiety' based on relevant subscale score (cut-points: depression≥14 points, anxiety≥10 points). The International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Long Form questionnaire was used to determine PA with an additional item to specify RT frequency. Participants were classified as adhering to 'aerobic PA only' (≥150 min PA/week), 'RT only' (RT ≥ 2 days/week), 'aerobic PA + RT' (≥150 min PA/week+RT ≥ 2 days/week), or 'neither aerobic PA nor RT' (<150 min PA/week+RT < 2 days/week). Adjusted relative risk ratios (RRR [95%CI]) were estimated using multinomial logistic regression models. Relative to the 'neither PA nor RT' (n = 2215), the probabilities of 'depression only' (n = 317) and 'co-occurring depression and anxiety' (n = 417) were lower for the 'aerobic PA only' (n = 1590) (RRR = 0.74 [0.56-0.97] and RRR = 0.76 [0.59-0.97] respectively), and 'both PA + RT' (n = 974) groups (RRR = 0.61 [0.43-0.86] and RRR = 0.47 [0.33-0.67] respectively). There were no associations between adhering to one or both recommendations and 'anxiety only' (n = 317), or between 'RT only' (n = 401) and depression and/or anxiety. Prevention and treatment strategies including both aerobic PA and RT may provide additional benefits for depression with or without comorbid anxiety.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 28-02-2018
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 12-08-2016
DOI: 10.2196/JMIR.5664
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2007
DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2006.11.010
Abstract: To examine if a website-delivered physical activity intervention, that provides participants with computer-tailored feedback, can improve physical activity in the general population. Healthy adults (n=434), recruited from parents and staff of 14 primary and secondary schools in Belgium in the spring of 2005, were allocated into one of two intervention groups (receiving intervention with or without repeated feedback) or a no-intervention control group. Physical activity-levels were self-reported at baseline and at 6 months (n=285), using a computerized long version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire online. Repeated measures analysis of co-variances were used to examine differences between the three groups. Intent-to-treat analysis showed significant time by group interaction effects in favor of both intervention groups compared with the control group. Significant increases were found for active transportation (+20, +24, +11 min/week respectively) and leisure-time physical activity (+26, +19, -4 min/week respectively) a significant decrease for minutes sitting on weekdays (-22, -34, +4 min/day respectively). No significant differences were found between both intervention groups. A website-delivered intervention, including computer-tailoring, was able to increase physical activity when compared to a no-intervention control group. High drop-out rate and the low number of participants who received repeated feedback indicated that engagement and retention are important challenges in e-health studies.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2016
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 22-07-2020
DOI: 10.1111/NHS.12749
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 30-07-2016
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2016
Abstract: To identify subgroups of Australian adults likely to receive physical activity advice from their general practitioner and to evaluate the content of the advice provided. Participants (n=1,799), recruited from the Australian Health and Social Science panel, completed an online survey. Signal Detection Analysis was used to identify subgroups that were more/less likely to have received physical activity recommendations. Overall, 18% of participants received a physical activity recommendation from their general practitioner in the past 12 months and eight unique subgroups were identified. The subgroup with the highest proportion (54%) of participants reporting that they received a physical activity recommendation was those with poor physical and mental health-related quality of life and an average daily sitting time of <11 hours. Other subgroups with high proportions of in iduals receiving recommendations were characterised by higher weight and/or the presence of co-morbidities. The most commonly prescribed physical activity type was aerobic activity. Few participants received specific physical activity advice. General practitioners are incorporating physical activity promotion into their practice, but primarily as a disease management tool and with limited specificity. Strategies to assist Australian general practitioners to effectively promote physical activity are needed.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 03-11-2020
DOI: 10.1136/BJSPORTS-2020-102521
Abstract: Some online, personally tailored, text-based physical activity interventions have proven effective. However, people tend to ‘skim’ and ‘scan’ web-based text rather than thoroughly read their contents. In contrast, online videos are more engaging and popular. We examined whether web-based personally tailored physical activity videos were more effective in promoting physical activity than personally tailored text and generic information. 501 adults were randomised into a video-tailored intervention, text-tailored intervention or control. Over a 3-month period, intervention groups received access to eight sessions of web-based personally tailored physical activity advice. Only the delivery method differed between intervention groups: tailored video versus tailored text. The primary outcome was 7-day ActiGraph-GT3X+ measured moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) assessed at 0, 3 and 9 months. Secondary outcomes included self-reported MVPA and website engagement. Differences were examined using generalised linear mixed models with intention-to-treat and multiple imputation. Accelerometer-assessed MVPA increased 23% in the control (1.23 (1.06, 1.43)), 12% in the text-tailored (1.12 (0.95, 1.32)) and 28% in the video-tailored (1.28 (1.06, 1.53)) groups at the 3-month follow-up only, though there were no significant between-group differences. Both text-tailored (1.77 (1.37, 2.28]) and video-tailored (1.37 (1.04, 1.79)) groups significantly increased self-reported MVPA more than the control group at 3 months only, but there were no differences between video-tailored and text-tailored groups. The video-tailored group spent significantly more time on the website compared with text-tailored participants (90 vs 77 min, p=0.02). The personally tailored videos were not more effective than personally tailored text in increasing MVPA. The findings from this study conflict with pilot study outcomes and previous literature. Process evaluation and mediation analyses will provide further insights. ACTRN12615000057583
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 2005
DOI: 10.1123/JPAH.2.1.63
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to examine the reliability and validity of a newly developed computerized Dutch version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Subjects ( N = 53) completed the computerized IPAQ at three specified times. Subjects wore a CSA activity monitor during seven full days and simultaneously completed a 7-d physical activity diary. Finally, respondents filled out a paper and pencil IPAQ. Intraclass correlation coefficient ranged from 0.60 to 0.83. Correlations for “total physical activity” between the computerized IPAQ and the CSA activity counts were moderate (min: r = 0.38 kcal: r = 0.43). Correlations with the physical activity diary were also moderate (min: r = 0.39 kcal: r = 0.46). Correlations between the computerized and the paper and pencil IPAQ were high (min: r = 0.80 kcal: r = 0.84). The computerized Dutch IPAQ is a reliable and reasonably valid physical activity measurement tool for the general adult population.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.YPMED.2014.05.009
Abstract: Prolonged sitting is an emerging risk factor for poor health yet few studies have examined awareness of the risks associated with sitting behaviours. This study identifies the population subgroups with the highest levels of unawareness regarding the cardiovascular disease (CVD) risks associated with sitting behaviours. Adults (n=1256) living in Queensland, Australia completed a telephone-based survey in 2011, analysis conducted in 2013. The survey assessed participant's socio-demographic characteristics, physical activity, sitting behaviours and awareness of CVD risks associated with three sitting behaviours: 1) sitting for prolonged periods, 2), sitting for prolonged periods whilst also engaging in regular physical activity, and 3) breaking up periods of prolonged sitting with short activity breaks. Population sub-groups with the highest levels of unawareness were identified based on socio-demographic and behavioural characteristics using signal detection analysis. Unawareness ranged from 23.3% to 67.0%. Age was the most important variable in differentiating awareness levels younger adults had higher levels of unawareness. Body mass index, physical activity, TV viewing, employment status and time spent at work also identified population sub-groups. Unawareness of CVD risk for prolonged sitting was moderately high overall. Younger adults had high levels of unawareness on all of the outcomes examined.
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: SAGE Publications
Date: 13-09-2013
Abstract: Objectives. Limited research exists addressing the development of health-related smartphone apps, a new and potentially effective health promotion delivery strategy. This article describes the development and formative evaluation of a smartphone app associated with a physical activity promotion website. Methods. A combination of qualitative and quantitative techniques (performance measures, direct observation, and subjective participant preferences) were implemented during two usability testing sessions (pre- and postmodification) while participants were completing tasks using the app. Results. Design improvements to the app resulted in a reduction in the problems experienced and a decrease in the time taken to complete tasks. Four usability themes emerged from the data: design, feedback, navigation, and terminology. Conclusion. This study demonstrates the relevance of usability testing to the design and modification of a smartphone app related to a health promotion website. This study resulted in an app with much higher usability, which might increase usage and maintenance of health behavior change in the long term. Practical implications. This study demonstrates the need for formative evaluation in health-related smartphone apps. Attention should be given to basic design principles as well as feedback, navigation, and terminology in order to ensure utility and ease of use of future smartphone app designs.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.AMEPRE.2019.05.009
Abstract: Interventions that improve both physical activity and sleep quality may be more effective in improving overall health. The purpose of the Synergy Study is to test the efficacy of a mobile health combined behavior intervention targeting physical activity and sleep quality. Randomized, waitlist-controlled trial. This study had an app-based delivery mode, Australia-wide. The participants were 160 adults who reported insufficient physical activity and poor sleep quality in an eligibility survey. The intervention was a mobile app providing educational resources, goal setting, self-monitoring, and feedback strategies. It included 12 weeks of personalized support including weekly reports, tool sheets, and prompts. Outcomes were assessed at baseline, 3 months (primary), and 6 months (secondary endpoint). Self-reported minutes of moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity and sleep quality were co-primary outcomes. Resistance training sitting time sleep hygiene sleep timing variability insomnia severity daytime sleepiness quality of life and depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms were secondary outcomes. Data were collected between June 2017 and February 2018 and analyzed in August 2018. At 3 months, between-group differences in moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity were not statistically significant (p=0.139). Significantly more participants in the intervention group engaged in ≥2 days/week (p=0.004) of resistance training. The intervention group reported better overall sleep quality (p=0.009), subjective sleep quality (p=0.017), sleep onset latency (p=0.013), waketime variability (p=0.018), sleep hygiene (p=0.027), insomnia severity (p=0.002), and lower stress symptoms (p=0.032) relative to waitlist controls. At 6 months, group differences were maintained for sleep hygiene (p=0.048), insomnia severity (p=0.002), and stress symptoms (p=0.006). Differences were observed for bedtime variability (p=0.023), sleepiness (p<0.001), daytime dysfunction (p=0.039), and anxiety symptoms (p=0.003) at 6 months, but not 3 months. This remotely delivered intervention did not produce statistically significant between-group differences in minutes of moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity. Significant short-term differences in resistance training and short- and medium-term differences in sleep health in favor of the intervention were observed. This study is registered at anzctr.org.au ACTRN12617000376347.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 27-05-2020
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 04-2012
DOI: 10.2165/11597220-000000000-00000
Abstract: Physical inactivity is one of the main modifiable risk factors for a range of noncommunicable diseases. Of particular interest are adult males, a hard-to-reach population group for health promotion interventions. The purpose of this review is to provide a critical evaluation of the published health-related physical activity interventions that have targeted adult males. A comprehensive search of MEDLINE, CINAHL®, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, PsycINFO, the Cochrane Library, and SPORTDiscus™ was conducted for intervention studies published in English, between January 1990 and August 2010. Studies including community-dwelling adult men (≥ 18 years), or including both males and females where data on male participants could be extracted and examined, were included in this review. Studies assessing changes in levels of physical activity, physical fitness or changes in biomarkers of disease risk relevant to physical activity (e.g. body weight, waist circumference, lipids, blood pressure) were the primary focus. A total of 14 studies focusing on physical activity only and nine combined physical activity and nutrition studies were also included in this review. Ten of the 14 physical activity only studies and four of the nine combined physical activity and nutrition studies demonstrated significant increases in physical activity outcomes. Face-to-face, group-based and print-based methods were most commonly employed in these interventions. Within each mode of delivery, a number of elements including regular feedback, access to self-monitoring tools, elements of social support, variety in activities and a degree of friendly competition, were revealed as positive inclusions for this population group. Males are generally under-represented in health-promotion interventions and should therefore be targeted specifically, and while results of the included studies are encouraging, there is a lack of intervention studies targeting adult males. Further research into this population group is therefore required.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 03-05-2017
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 22-07-2016
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 04-2018
Abstract: This study examined sitting time, knowledge, and intentions to change sitting time in older adults. An online survey was completed by 494 Australians aged 65+. Average daily sitting was high (9.0 hr). Daily sitting time was the highest during TV (3.3 hr), computer (2.1 hr), and leisure (1.7 hr). A regression analysis demonstrated that women were more knowledgeable about the health risks of sitting compared to men. The percentage of older adults intending to sit less were the highest for TV (24%), leisure (24%), and computer (19%) sitting time. Regression analyses demonstrated that intentions varied by gender (for TV sitting), education (leisure and work sitting), body mass index (computer, leisure, and transport sitting), and physical activity (TV, computer, and leisure sitting). Interventions should target older adults' TV, computer, and leisure time sitting, with a focus on intentions in older males and older adults with low education, those who are active, and those with a normal weight.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 19-01-2021
Abstract: Controversy around the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines may lead to low vaccination rates. Survey data were collected in April and August 2020 from a total of 2343 Australian adults. A quarter (n = 575, 24%) completed both surveys. A generalized linear mixed model analysis was conducted to determine whether willingness to vaccinate changed in the repeated s le, and a multinominal logistic regression was conducted in all participants to determine whether willingness to vaccinate was associated with demographics, chronic disease, or media use. Willingness to vaccinate slightly decreased between April (87%) and August (85%) but this was not significant. Willingness to vaccinate was lower in people with a certificate or diploma (79%) compared to those with a Bachelor degree (87%), p 0.01 and lower in infrequent users of traditional media (78%) compared to frequent users of traditional media (89%), p 0.001. Women were more likely to be unsure if they would be willing to vaccinate (10%) compared to men (7%), p 0.01. There were no associations between willingness to vaccinate and age, chronic disease, or social media use. Promotion of a COVID-19 vaccine should consider targeting women, and people with a certificate or diploma, via non-traditional media channels.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 29-02-2012
DOI: 10.2196/JMIR.1998
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 18-04-2018
DOI: 10.2196/JMIR.8954
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 03-2016
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 17-12-2021
Abstract: Prolonged high salt (sodium) intake can increase the risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Behavioral interventions may help reduce sodium intake at the population level. The effectiveness of behavior change interventions to reduce sodium intake in adults was investigated in this systematic review and meta-analysis. The PubMed, Cochrane Library, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and EMBASE databases were searched. Narrative synthesis and random-effects meta-analyses were used to determine intervention efficacy. A total of 61 trials (46 controlled trials and 15 quasi-experimental studies) were included. Behavior change interventions resulted in significant improvements in salt consumption behavior (eg, decrease in purchase of salty foods increase in use of salt substitutes), leading to reductions in sodium intake as measured by urinary sodium in 32 trials (N = 7840 participants mean difference, –486.19 mg/d [95%CI, –669.44 to –302.95] P & 0.001 I2 = 92%) and dietary sodium in 19 trials (N = 3750 participants mean difference –399.86 mg/d [95%CI, –581.51 to –218.20] P & 0.001 I2 = 96%), equivalent to a reduction of & g of salt intake daily. Effects were not significantly different based on baseline sodium intakes, blood pressure status, disease status, the use of behavior change theories, or the main method of intervention delivery (ie, online vs face-to-face). Behavior change interventions are effective at improving salt consumption practices and appear to reduce salt intake by & g/d. PROSPERO registration no. CRD42020185639.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 26-06-2021
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 19-08-2015
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 02-2018
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2017-018997
Abstract: There is a need to reduce physical inactivity and poor sleep health in the adult population to decrease chronic disease rates and the associated burden. Given the high prevalence of these risk behaviours, effective interventions with potential for wide reach are warranted. The aim of this two-arm RCT will be to test the effect of a three month personalised mobile app intervention on two main outcomes: minutes of moderate-to-vigorous-intensity physical activity and overall sleep quality. In addition, between-group changes in health-related quality of life and mental health status will be assessed as secondary outcomes. The pre-specified mediators and moderators include social cognitive factors, the neighbourhood environment, health (BMI, depression, anxiety, stress), sociodemographic factors (age, gender, education) and app usage. Assessments will be conducted after three months (primary endpoint) and six months (follow-up). The intervention will provide access to a specifically developed mobile app, through which participants can set goals for active minutes, daily step counts, resistance training, sleep times and sleep hygiene practice. The app also allows participants to log their behaviours daily and view progress bars as well as instant feedback in relation to goals. The personalised support system will consist of weekly summary reports, educational and instructional materials, prompts on disengagement and weekly facts. The Human Research Ethics Committee of The University of Newcastle, Australia granted full approval: H-2016–0181. This study will assess the efficacy of a combined behaviour intervention, mechanisms of behaviour change and gather high-quality process data, all of which will help refine future trials. Dissemination of findings will include publication in a peer-reviewed journal and presentation at national or international conferences. Participants will receive a plain English summary report of results. ACTRN12617000376347 Pre-results.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 27-07-2009
DOI: 10.2196/JMIR.1084
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 25-11-2021
Abstract: Preliminary research has shown the effectiveness of supervised exercise-based interventions in alleviating sequela resulting from metastatic prostate cancer. However, many in iduals encounter barriers that limit the uptake of face-to-face exercise. Technology-enabled interventions offer a distance-based alternative. This pilot study aimed to explore the acceptability, safety and preliminary efficacy of a web-based exercise intervention (ExerciseGuide) in in iduals with metastatic prostate cancer. Forty participants (70.2 ± 8.5 years) with metastatic prostate cancer were randomised into the 8-week intervention (N = 20) or a wait-list control (N = 20). The intervention arm had access to a computer-tailored website, personalised exercise prescription and remote supervision. ExerciseGuide was deemed acceptable with a score ≥20 on the client satisfaction questionnaire however, the usability score was just below the pre-specified score of ≥68 on the software usability scale. There were no serious adverse events reported. Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity levels between baseline and follow-ups were significantly higher (10.0 min per day 95% CI = (1.3–18.6) p = 0.01) in the intervention group compared to wait-list control. There were also greater improvements in step count (1332 95% CI = (159–2505) p = 0.02) and identified motivation (0.4, 95% CI = (0.0, 0.7) p = 0.04). Our findings provide preliminary evidence that ExerciseGuide is acceptable, safe and efficacious among in iduals with metastatic prostate cancer.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 07-03-2021
Abstract: ehavioral eHealth and mobile health interventions have been moderately successful in increasing physical activity, although opportunities for further improvement remain to be discussed. Chatbots equipped with natural language processing can interact and engage with users and help continuously monitor physical activity by using data from wearable sensors and smartphones. However, a limited number of studies have evaluated the effectiveness of chatbot interventions on physical activity. his study aims to investigate the feasibility, usability, and effectiveness of a machine learning–based physical activity chatbot. quasi-experimental design without a control group was conducted with outcomes evaluated at baseline and 6 weeks. Participants wore a Fitbit Flex 1 (Fitbit LLC) and connected to the chatbot via the Messenger app. The chatbot provided daily updates on the physical activity level for self-monitoring, sent out daily motivational messages in relation to goal achievement, and automatically adjusted the daily goals based on physical activity levels in the last 7 days. When requested by the participants, the chatbot also provided sources of information on the benefits of physical activity, sent general motivational messages, and checked participants’ activity history (ie, the step counts/min that were achieved on any day). Information about usability and acceptability was self-reported. The main outcomes were daily step counts recorded by the Fitbit and self-reported physical activity. mong 116 participants, 95 (81.9%) were female, 85 (73.3%) were in a relationship, 101 (87.1%) were White, and 82 (70.7%) were full-time workers. Their average age was 49.1 (SD 9.3) years with an average BMI of 32.5 (SD 8.0) kg/m2. Most experienced technical issues were due to an unexpected change in Facebook policy (93/113, 82.3%). Most of the participants scored the usability of the chatbot (101/113, 89.4%) and the Fitbit (99/113, 87.6%) as at least “OK.” About one-third (40/113, 35.4%) would continue to use the chatbot in the future, and 53.1% (60/113) agreed that the chatbot helped them become more active. On average, 6.7 (SD 7.0) messages/week were sent to the chatbot and 5.1 (SD 7.4) min/day were spent using the chatbot. At follow-up, participants recorded more steps (increase of 627, 95% CI 219-1035 steps/day) and total physical activity (increase of 154.2 min/week 3.58 times higher at follow-up 95% CI 2.28-5.63). Participants were also more likely to meet the physical activity guidelines (odds ratio 6.37, 95% CI 3.31-12.27) at follow-up. he machine learning–based physical activity chatbot was able to significantly increase participants’ physical activity and was moderately accepted by the participants. However, the Facebook policy change undermined the chatbot functionality and indicated the need to use independent platforms for chatbot deployment to ensure successful delivery of this type of intervention.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 19-04-2012
Abstract: Little attention has been paid to the physical activity (PA) and nutrition behaviors of middle-aged men thus, the aim of this study was to gather information and gain insight into the PA and nutrition behaviors of these men. Six focus group sessions were undertaken with middle-aged men ( N = 30) from regional Australia to explore the challenges and motivations to PA participation and healthy eating. Men had a good understanding of PA and nutrition however, this was sometimes confounded by inconsistent media messages. Work commitments and family responsibilities were barriers to PA, while poor cooking skills and abilities were barriers to healthy eating. Disease prevention, weight management, and being a good role model were motivators for PA and healthy eating. By understanding what a man wants, PA and nutrition interventions can be designed and delivered to meet the needs of this hard-to-reach population.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2016
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 14-02-2023
Abstract: Wearable activity trackers and smartphone apps have been shown to increase physical activity in children and adults. However, interventions using activity trackers and apps have rarely been tested in whole families. This study examined the experience and satisfaction with an activity tracker and app intervention (Step it Up Family) to increase physical activity in whole families. Telephone interviews were conducted with Queensland-based families (n = 19) who participated in the Step it Up Family intervention (N = 40, single-arm, pre ost feasibility study) in 2017/2018. Using commercial activity trackers combined with apps, the intervention included an introductory session, in idual and family-level goal setting, self-monitoring, family step challenges, and weekly motivational text messages. Qualitative content analysis was conducted to identify themes, categories and sub-categories. In summary, parents reported that children were engaged with the activity tracker and app features to reach their daily step goals. Some technical difficulties were experienced with app navigation, syncing of activity tracker data, and tracker band discomfort. Although families liked that the weekly text messages reminded them to be active, they did not find them very motivating. Using text messages for physical activity motivation in families requires further testing. Overall, the intervention was well-received by families for increasing physical activity motivation.
Publisher: The Optical Society
Date: 03-08-2017
DOI: 10.1364/OE.25.019497
Start Date: 2019
End Date: 2022
Funder: Australian Research Council
View Funded ActivityStart Date: 2013
End Date: 2017
Funder: National Health and Medical Research Council
View Funded ActivityStart Date: 2015
End Date: 2019
Funder: National Health and Medical Research Council
View Funded ActivityStart Date: 01-2022
End Date: 01-2026
Amount: $1,099,480.00
Funder: Australian Research Council
View Funded ActivityStart Date: 2019
End Date: 06-2023
Amount: $626,825.00
Funder: Australian Research Council
View Funded Activity