ORCID Profile
0000-0002-1663-5348
Current Organisation
University of the Sunshine Coast
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Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 08-07-2015
DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2015.1065340
Abstract: Limited data are available on the female athlete triad (Triad) in athletes from minority groups. We explored subclinical and clinical Triad components amongst adolescent elite Kenyan athletes (n = 61) and non-athletes (n = 49). Participants completed demographic, health, sport and menstrual history questionnaires as well as a 5-day weighed dietary record and exercise log to calculate energy availability (EA). Ultrasound assessed calcaneus bone mineral density (BMD). Eating Disorder Inventory subscales and the Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire's cognitive dietary restraint subscale measured disordered eating (DE). EA was lower in athletes than non-athletes (36.5 ± 4.5 vs. 39.5 ± 5.7 kcal ∙ kg FFM(-1) ∙ d(-1), P = 0.003). More athletes were identified with clinical low EA (17.9% vs. 2.2%, OR = 9.5, 95% CI 1.17-77, P = 0.021) and clinical menstrual dysfunction (32.7% vs. 18.3%, χ(2) = 7.1, P = 0.02). Subclinical (75.4% vs. 71.4%) and clinical DE (4.9% vs. 10.2%, P = 0.56) as well as BMD were similar between athletes and non-athletes. More athletes had two Triad components than non-athletes (8.9% vs. 0%, OR = 0.6, 95% CI 0.5-6.9, P = 0.05). Kenyan adolescent participants presented with one or more subclinical and/or clinical Triad component. It is essential that athletes and their entourage be educated on their energy needs including health and performance consequences of an energy deficiency.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2012
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 08-2015
Abstract: Modern culture has stereotyped the female body as one that is continually getting thinner. Internalization of the ‘thin’ ideal is partly attributable to the inner ideal to be successful combined with the external pressure imposed by media and others. Many in iduals attempt to achieve these ideals by behavior modification that imposes health risks. To investigate disordered eating (DE) behavior and energy status in female student dancers. Volunteer dancers ( n = 26) aged 19.0 (18.0 21.0) years, matched by controls ( n = 26) aged 20.0 (19.0 21.0) years were recruited. Eating Disorder Inventory-3 (EDI-3) subscales, Three-factor Eating Questionnaire (TFEQ) Cognitive Dietary Restraint (CDR) subscale, and EDI-3 Referral Form behavioral questions assessed DE behavior. Energy status was assessed with a food record and Actiheart monitor. Dancers achieved significantly higher scores than controls in all questionnaires, namely: EDI-3 Drive for Thinness [12.0 (3.0 19.0) vs. 4.5 (2.0 9.0), p = .023], EDI-3 Body Dissatisfaction [16.0 (10.0 25.0) vs. 6.5 (3.0 14.0), p = .004], and TFEQ-CDR [9.0 (2.0 15.0) vs. 3.0 (3.0 7.0), p = .032] dancers used excessive exercise to lose weight (19.2% vs. 0%, c 2 = 5.53, p = .019), and had lower energy availability (24% vs. 8%, p .05) than controls. The average energy balance (EB) was negative for both groups [dancers: EB = -3896 (-5236 -1222) vs. controls: EB = -2639 (-4744 -789) kJ/day]. Female dancers are at risk for DE behavior and many have suboptimal energy status which may be related to their quest to achieve a more desirable appearance education on healthy weight management practices is needed.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-04-2023
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2011
DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2011.588958
Abstract: This review updates and complements the review of energy balance and body composition in the Proceedings of the 2003 IOC Consensus Conference on Sports Nutrition. It argues that the concept of energy availability is more useful than the concept of energy balance for managing the diets of athletes. It then summarizes recent reports of the existence, aetiologies, and clinical consequences of low energy availability in athletes. This is followed by a review of recent research on the failure of appetite to increase ad libitum energy intake in compensation for exercise energy expenditure. The review closes by summarizing the implications of this research for managing the diets of athletes.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2018
Publisher: Research Square Platform LLC
Date: 21-11-2022
DOI: 10.21203/RS.3.RS-2294896/V1
Abstract: Virtual learning environments, including computer-assisted instruction and game-based learning, have become increasingly popular as educational tools. The present study sought to evaluate the potential of an online serious game to improve the clinical reasoning ability of pre-placement dietetic students during nutrition care planning (NCP). A pre-post-test study design investigated lower- and higher-level clinical reasoning skills in 43 pre-placement dietetics students, as well as perceptions on learning experiences, self-confidence, and views of NCP. Students’ ability to discriminate information, prioritise, and develop an appropriate nutrition intervention plan improved. Serious online games have potential to improve clinical reasoning skills in NCP.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 18-10-2019
DOI: 10.3390/NU11102519
Abstract: This prospective study investigated the association between nutrient intake, dietary patterns, and changes in bone turnover and bone mineral density (BMD) in postmenopausal urban black South African women over two years. These women (n = 144) underwent BMD measurements at the distal radius, lumbar spine, femoral neck (FN), as well as a biochemical analysis which included the parathyroid hormone (PTH), 25-hydroxyvitamin D, C-Telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX-1) in 2010 and 2012. Their dietary intake was assessed in 2010 using a food frequency questionnaire, and sociodemographic and health information was collected. Four dietary patterns explained 54.4% of the variance of dietary intake, namely staple foods and processed meats, home cooking, snacking, and high sugar. Dietary magnesium negatively correlated with CTx-1 in 2012 (r = −0.21, p = 0.02), calcium correlated with distal radius BMD in 2010 (r = 0.22, p = 0.01) and 2012 (r = 0.24, p = 0.005), and the snacking dietary pattern score correlated with FN BMD in 2010 (r = 0.18, p = 0.03) and 2012 (r = 0.21, p = 0.02). The baseline CTx-1 and dietary magnesium intake predicted 22% of the variance in percentage change of CTx-1 over two years (p 0.001).The magnesium intake predicted short-term bone resorption over two years.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.CLNU.2022.08.003
Abstract: Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) is one of the most distressing cancer treatment side effects, affecting 20-70% of patients despite routine antiemetic prescription. Although dietary modifications are routinely recommended in clinical practice, there is lack of data synthesis to determine which dietary strategies for managing CINV are supported by quality evidence. This systematic review was conducted to examine the effect of dietary strategies on incidence and severity of CINV in adults compared with no intervention, usual care, or alternative strategies. Five electronic databases were searched from inception to 15th July 2021 for original research studies of interventional or observational design assessing dietary strategies for CINV. The quality of evidence was appraised, data were synthesized narratively, and Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) assessment of the certainty of the evidence was applied. Twenty-one studies were included, 10 (48%) interventional studies and 11 (52%) observational studies. Most interventional and observational studies had a high or neutral risk of bias (70% and 72%, respectively). Of the interventions studied, strongest evidence with highest certainty was found for the very large positive effect of CINV-specific education and support with a personalized meal plan from a dietician, implemented in person or in writing, for reducing the severity of nausea and overall CINV (effect size: very large GRADE: high). A statistically significant very large positive effect of ginger tea consumption was also found on overall CINV severity however, certainty in this effect was very low. Although confidence in the findings from observational studies was very low to low, a statistically significant positive association was also found between a moderate intake of alcohol and incidence of nausea, vomiting, or overall CINV as well as nausea severity the Mediterranean diet and nausea incidence and severity and adequate intake of energy, protein, fat, or carbohydrate and nausea or vomiting incidence. Improved CINV was associated with CINV-specific nutrition education and support from health professionals. Non-restrictive dietary patterns that include adequate energy and macronutrient intakes, particularly protein, and include ginger, and Mediterranean diet concepts may benefit CINV however, the confidence in the body of evidence to inform these conclusions is mostly very low to moderate. Future rigorous trials with adequate s le sizes, clearly defined dietary strategies, and valid outcome measures are warranted prior to dietary strategies being routinely prescribed alongside antiemetic regimens.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 28-04-2022
DOI: 10.1177/14697874221091596
Abstract: Although there is growing evidence that the flipped classroom approach (FCA) positively impacts the student learning experience and outcomes, much less is known about the educator’s experience. This study aimed to explore how educators across several disciplines in a regional Australian University describe their experience of using the FCA. Qualitative description methodology guided the research whereby in idual face-to-face semi-structured interviews collected qualitative data from educators who had used the FCA in the previous 4 years which was then analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Eleven educators across seven disciplines were recruited, eight of whom had fully and three partially flipped a course. Four broad themes described the educator’s experience of the FCA namely, the environmental influence, preparation and implementation, emotional response and metacognition. There were 20 sub-themes across the four themes. Educators in this study were both ambivalent and internally motivated by the FCA, valued scholarly and institutional support, highlighted the importance of reflexive teaching practice and appreciated the affordance of more active learning opportunities in class. The human aspect of competing emotions was clear when implementing the FCA. Educators need to prepare themselves for the emotional investment that accompanies the FCA, to be responsive and adaptive in what and how content is delivered. Institutions should provide adequate support to cater for both the well-being of educators as well as the practicalities of implementing the FCA.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 28-12-2016
DOI: 10.1017/S0007114516004244
Abstract: The WHO has called for governments to improve children’s food environment by implementing restrictions on the marketing of ‘unhealthy’ foods to children. Nutrient profiling (NP) models are used to define ‘unhealthy’ foods and support child-directed food marketing regulations. The aim of the present study was to assess the suitability of the South African NP model (SANPM), developed and validated for health claim regulations, for child-directed food marketing regulations. The SANPM was compared with four NP models specifically developed for such regulations. A representative list of 197 foods was compiled by including all foods advertised on South African free-to-air television channels in 2014 and foods commonly consumed by South African children. The nutritional information of the foods was sourced from food packaging, company websites and a food composition table. Each in idual food was classified by each of the five NP models. The percentage of foods that would be allowed according to the different NP models ranged from 6 to 45 % the models also varied considerably with regard to the type of foods allowed for marketing to children. The majority of the pairwise comparisons between the NP models yielded κ statistics ·4, indicating a moderate agreement between the models. An almost perfect pairwise agreement ( κ =0·948) existed between the SANPM and the UK Food Standards Agency model (United Kingdom Office of Communication nutrient profiling model), a model extensively tested and validated for such regulations. The SANPM is considered appropriate for child-directed food marketing regulations in South Africa.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 07-04-2020
DOI: 10.1111/NHS.12712
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2014
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 12-12-2019
DOI: 10.1080/17461391.2019.1698659
Abstract: Despite substantial growth in participation rates in physique sports, little is known about the modern day female physique athlete. The extreme physique traits of successful female physique athletes suggest this population may be particularly at risk of developing disordered eating (DE). The aim of this study was to determine if female physique athletes across the main isions of bikini, fitness, figure and bodybuilding were at risk of DE and to explore possible associated risk factors. Furthermore, we aimed to investigate differences in incidence of DE across isions given differences in physique requirements. Female physique athletes (
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 15-11-2022
Abstract: Diet and exercise are associated with the maintenance of physical function, independence and better health-related quality of life in cancer survivors. Adherence to healthy diet and exercise guidelines, however, remains low. The aim of this study was to explore the perceptions of hematological cancer survivors (HCS, ≥50 years) on the role of diet and exercise in navigating daily tasks using a qualitative descriptive research method. Eligible HCS completed an online survey gathering demographic information including physical functioning, exercise frequency, malnutrition and frailty risk. Following a semi-structured telephone interview, thematic analysis was used. Nine HCS (67 ± 2 years) were included in the final analysis, with 55.5% sufficiently active, three at risk of malnutrition and five of frailty. Three primary themes reflected the survivors’ perceptions: (1) beliefs about the impact of diet and exercise on physical and mental wellbeing, (2) the ability to overcome barriers to adhere to healthy diet and exercise behavior, and (3) diet and exercise empowered and gave hope. Participants had a more nuanced understanding of the role of exercise in physical function but lacked insight into the role of a healthy diet. Knowledge, support and instruction were key enablers of diet and exercise behavior, with community connection a unique enabler identified in this group.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 20-09-2017
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 05-01-2018
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 29-12-2022
DOI: 10.3390/SU15010576
Abstract: Over the past 2 years, the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic has had a pronounced impact on the foodservice sector, including compliance to new food provision guidelines. International sporting events’ over-crowded communal eating areas are considered to be high-risk areas for contracting infectious disease. The purpose of this study was to explore the perceptions, level of preparedness and perceived challenges of key stakeholders when providing food at major athletic competition events during a global pandemic. A qualitative methodology was employed using semi-structure interviews and data was analyzed using interpretive phenomenology. Inductive thematic analysis identified six major themes of COVID-19′s impact on foodservice systems. Adapting foodservice models to pandemic planning is pre-determined and dictated by settings and environments. There were common heightened concerns over sustainability practices, increase in waste management, costs and negative impact on social dining experience, which were all perceived to be impacted by the changes relevant to COVID-19. There was a renewed attention to improving food safety and quality control measures. The outcomes of this study suggest that International organizing committees of major competitions must now be tasked with updated guidelines, including supporting adequate budgets and communication, if stakeholders are to adapt their operations to control the spread of viruses, such as COVID-19, within all foodservice operations at major competitions. Attention should be directed to determine whether food provision changes continue to be recommended and how this will impact foodservice delivery, sustainability and the social dining experience at future sporting events.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 15-12-2022
DOI: 10.3390/NU14245319
Abstract: Low-grade systemic inflammation is a key driver of muscle degeneration in older adults, and diets with pro-inflammatory properties may further contribute to loss of muscle mass, strength and function. Therefore, this research aimed to explore the associations between the inflammatory potential of the diet and measures of sarcopenia symptomology in community-dwelling older adults. Upper (handgrip strength, HGS) and lower extremity (sit-to-stand) muscle strength, physical performance (timed-up-and-go, TUG) and appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM) was assessed according to the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People version 2 (EWGSOP2) criteria. Multiple 24-hr dietary recalls were used to calculate the Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII), which was then used to group participants into anti- and pro-inflammatory dietary groups. Multiple linear regression investigated associations between DII, muscle strength, physical performance, and muscle quantity adjusted for age, gender, comorbidities, waist circumference and physical activity. Adults 65–85 years (n = 110, 72.1 ± 4.7 years, 76.4% female) were recruited. One participant was identified with sarcopenia, 35.2% were pre-frail, or frail. More participants with a pro-inflammatory DII score had low muscle quantity than those with anti-inflammatory DII (3.4% vs. 6.4%, x2 = 4.537, p = 0.043) and DII was negatively associated with HGS (β = −0.157, p = 0.016) and ASM (β = −0.176, p = 0.002) which remained significant after adjusting for covariates. In this population, DII was associated with less favorable muscle strength, physical performance, and muscle quantity.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 29-01-2020
DOI: 10.1038/S41430-020-0566-Y
Abstract: In an effort to combat childhood obesity the WHO has called on governments to restrict the marketing of unhealthy foods to children. Regulators have turned to nutrient profiling (NP) to provide the evidence for their decisions. This has resulted in the development of NP models, of which the validity of only a few have been established. The aim of this study was to assess the construct validity of various NP models for the purpose of restricting the marketing of unhealthy foods to children in South Africa by comparing the classification of foods by the models to the ranking of the same foods by registered dietitians. Six current NP models were identified, then a representative food database of 120 foods was developed and each in idual food was classified by each of the six models. Lastly dietitians were recruited to rank the healthfulness of the same 120 foods. Dietitians allowed 24% of the included foods for marketing to children, whereas the percentage of foods allowed by the included models ranged from 7 to 47%. Majority of pairwise comparisons between the NP models and dietitians yielded ҡ statistics >0.6, indicating substantial agreement. An almost perfect pairwise agreement was found between dietitians and the WHO Regional Office for Europe model. The included NP models displayed good construct validity by agreeing with dietitians on what are 'less healthy' foods, thus the foods not allowed for marketing. The findings of this study contributes to the process of establishing validity of NP models.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 2021
DOI: 10.1017/JNS.2021.33
Abstract: Adherence to a Mediterranean lifestyle may be a useful primary and secondary prevention strategy for chronic kidney disease (CKD). This cross-sectional study aimed to explore adherence to a Mediterranean lifestyle and its association with cardiometabolic markers and kidney function in 99 people aged 73⋅2 ± 10⋅5 years with non-dialysis dependant CKD (stages 3–5) at a single Australian centre. Adherence was assessed using an a priori index, the Mediterranean Lifestyle (MEDLIFE) index. Cardiometabolic markers (total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, HbA1c and random blood glucose) and kidney function (estimated GFR) were sourced from medical records and blood pressure measured upon recruitment. Overall, adherence to a Mediterranean lifestyle was moderate to low with an average MEDLIFE index score of 11⋅33 ± 3⋅31. Adherence to a Mediterranean lifestyle was associated with employment ( r 0⋅30, P = 0⋅004). Mediterranean dietary habits were associated with cardiometabolic markers, such as limiting sugar in beverages was associated with lower diastolic blood pressure ( r 0⋅32, P = 0⋅002), eating in moderation with favourable random blood glucose ( r 0⋅21, P = 0⋅043), having more than two snack foods per week with HbA1c ( r 0⋅29, P = 0⋅037) and LDL-cholesterol ( r 0⋅41, P = 0⋅002). Interestingly, eating in company was associated with a lower frequency of depression ( χ 2 5⋅975, P = 0⋅015). To conclude, Mediterranean dietary habits were favourably associated with cardiometabolic markers and management of some comorbidities in this group of people with non-dialysis dependent CKD.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2021
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 05-2018
Abstract: The ergogenic effect of caffeine on endurance exercise is commonly accepted. We aimed to elucidate realistically the effect of caffeine on triathlon event performance using a field study design, while allowing investigation into potential mechanisms at play. A double-blind, randomized, crossover field trial was conducted. Twenty-six triathletes (14 males and 12 females mean ± SD : age = 37.8 ± 10.6 years, habitual caffeine intake = 413 ± 505 mg/day, percentage body fat = 14.5 ± 7.2%, and training/week = 12.8 ± 4.5 hr) participated in this study. Microencapsulated caffeine (6 mg/kg body weight) was supplemented 60 min pretrial. Performance data included time to completion, rating of perceived exertion, and profile of mood states. Blood s les taken before, during, and postrace were analyzed for cortisol, testosterone, and full blood count. Capillary blood lactate concentrations were assessed prerace, during transitions, and 3, 6, 9, 12, and 15 min after triathlons. Caffeine supplementation resulted in a 3.7% reduction in swim time (33.5 ± 7.0 vs. 34.8 ± 8.1 min, p .05) and a 1.3% reduction in time to completion (149.6 ± 19.8 vs. 151.5 ± 18.6 min, p .05) for the whole group. Gender differences and in idual responses are also presented. Caffeine did not alter the rating of perceived exertion significantly, but better performance after caffeine supplementation suggests a central effect resulting in greater overall exercise intensity at the same rating of perceived exertion. Caffeine supplementation was associated with higher postexercise cortisol levels (665 ± 200 vs. 543 ± 169 nmol/L, p .0001) and facilitated greater peak blood lactate accumulation (analysis of variance main effect, p .05). We recommend that triathlon athletes with relatively low habitual caffeine intake may ingest 6 mg/kg body weight caffeine, 45–60 min before the start of Olympic-distance triathlon to improve their performance.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 26-01-2021
Abstract: A concept‐based approach to dietetic curriculum design has been proposed to prevent content overload and promote critical thinking. Fifty‐six concepts were identified in a previous study. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether the dietetic profession views these concepts as representative of current practice and key for nutrition and dietetics education, and identify any new or emerging concepts. Accredited Practising Dietitians (APDs) were invited to participate in a self‐administered online survey that included scale responses on the relevance of the 56 concepts and open‐ended suggestions of additional concepts. Respondent characteristics were also collected. Ninety‐eight APDs completed the survey. Greater than 65% of respondents agreed/strongly agreed that all 56 concepts were relevant. There was less agreement on the concepts of acid‐base balance leadership management physical activity, exercise and health quality assurance and improvement risk safety stakeholder standards sustainability systems and technology and health informatics. Respondents working in regional, rural and remote areas were less likely to agree that leadership was a key concept ( χ 2 = 4.45, P = .035). Respondents working in teaching and education were more likely to agree that sustainability was a key concept ( χ 2 = 7.02, P = .008). No new concepts were identified. The existing 56 concepts were considered key for nutrition and dietetics education. Although the respondents to this survey view these concepts as relevant to current practice, this may not represent the entire profession. It is yet to be determined if the concepts will meet future priorities for the dietetic workforce.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 02-10-2021
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2010
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 04-07-2013
DOI: 10.1017/S000711451300189X
Abstract: Little is known about the effects of combined micronutrient and sugar consumption on growth and cognition. In the present study, we investigated the effects of micronutrients and sugar, alone and in combination, in a beverage on growth and cognition in schoolchildren. In a 2 × 2 factorial design, children ( n 414, 6–11 years) were randomly allocated to consume beverages containing (1) micronutrients with sugar, (2) micronutrients with a non-nutritive sweetener, (3) no micronutrients with sugar or (4) no micronutrients with a non-nutritive sweetener for 8·5 months. Growth was assessed and cognition was tested using the Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children version II (KABC-II) subtests and the Hopkins Verbal Learning Test (HVLT). Micronutrients decreased the OR for Fe deficiency at the endpoint (OR 0·19 95 % CI 0·07, 0·53). Micronutrients increased KABC Atlantis (intervention effect: 0·76 95 % CI 0·10, 1·42) and HVLT Discrimination Index (1·00 95 % CI 0·01, 2·00) scores. Sugar increased KABC Atlantis (0·71 95 % CI 0·05, 1·37) and Rover (0·72 95 % CI 0·08, 1·35) scores and HVLT Recall 3 (0·94 95 % CI 0·15, 1·72). Significant micronutrient × sugar interaction effects on the Atlantis, Number recall, Rover and Discrimination Index scores indicated that micronutrients and sugar in combination attenuated the beneficial effects of micronutrients or sugar alone. Micronutrients or sugar alone had a lowering effect on weight-for-age z -scores relative to controls (micronutrients − 0·08 95 % CI − 0·15, − 0·01 sugar − 0·07 95 % CI − 0·14, − 0·002), but in combination, this effect was attenuated. The beverages with micronutrients or added sugar alone had a beneficial effect on cognition, which was attenuated when provided in combination.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 11-10-2013
Publisher: Canadian Science Publishing
Date: 04-2017
Abstract: The relationship between 25 hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D), parathyroid hormone (PTH) and metabolic traits appear to differ among ethnicities and may be influenced by obesity. The aim of the study was to examine the association of serum 25(OH)D or PTH with metabolic syndrome (MetS) while controlling for adiposity in black women. Using a cross-sectional study design, 209 urban black women aged ≥ 43 years from the North West Province, South Africa, were included. Multiple regression models were used to explore the relationship between 25(OH)D or PTH and body composition. To explore the association between 25(OH)D or PTH and MetS, a separate variable was created including at least 3 of the MetS criteria, but excluding elevated waist circumference as a diagnostic criterion in a logistic regression model. The majority of the women (69.9%) were overweight or obese and 65.5% of the women had excessive adiposity using the age-specific cut-off points for body fat percentage. All body composition variables were positively associated with PTH, whereas body mass index and waist circumference, but not body fat percentage, had negative associations with 25(OH)D also after adjusting for confounders. Before and after adjusting for age, body fat, habitual physical activity, tobacco use, season of data collection, and estimated glomerular filtration rate, neither 25(OH)D nor PTH showed significant associations with MetS. Although PTH was positively associated and 25(OH)D was negatively associated with adiposity in black women, there was no association between either 25(OH)D or PTH and MetS in this study population, nor did adiposity influence these relationships.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 21-03-2021
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 21-01-2015
Abstract: Age-related muscle and fat mass (FM) changes are ethnicity specific. We aimed to develop a cut-point for the muscle mass component of sarcopenia for black South African (SA) women, and to assess its predictive value, in comparison to established cut-points, to identify functional ability among older black SA women. In a cross-sectional study, a sarcopenia cut-point was calculated from dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA)-derived appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM) indexes (ASMI) from two young black SA reference groups. The new cut-point was compared with the most recent Foundation for the National Institutes of Health (FNIH) criteria (ASM <15.02 kg and ASM(BMI) <0.512), an internationally accepted cut-point (ASMI <5.5 kg/m(2)) and a residual method adjusting for FM. All cut-points were then applied to 221 older black women to predict gait speed and handgrip strength. A cut-point of ASMI <4.94 kg/m(2) was derived from the young SA reference groups. Using this cut-point, 9.1% of older women were classified as sarcopenic, compared with 16.7-38.7% using other cut-points. The only cut-points that significantly predicted low functional ability (low gait speed and low handgrip strength) in older black women were the new SA cut-point and the FNIH ASM criterion. Multivariate logistic regression models for both these cut-points significantly predicted low handgrip strength (odds ratio (OR)=3.71, P=0.007 and OR=3.42, P=0.001, respectively) and low gait speed (OR=9.82, P=0.004 and OR=8.71, P=0.008, respectively). The new SA cut-point had similar or greater odds of predicting reduced functional ability in older SA women when compared with other internationally accepted cut-points.
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 08-2022
Abstract: The main aim of this study was to explore the views and perceptions of dietetic educators on their ability to assess communication skills of undergraduate student dietitians in a telehealth setting. A secondary aim was to provide recommendations to educators when assessing these skills using telehealth. A descriptive qualitative study design was used. Australian and New-Zealand dietetic educators used a validated global communication rating scale to evaluate three pre-recorded telehealth encounters. Educators then answered a series of open-ended questions on their ability to assessed communication skills in the telehealth environment. Inductive analysis allowed the emergence of themes and sub-themes independent of a specific framework or theory. Peer debriefing and triangulation increased research rigor. Twenty-four educators were included in this study with the majority (87.5%) having & 10 years experience as a dietetic educator, and 41.6% ( n = 10) with experience in assessing dietetics student using telehealth. Most (76%) educators reported the assessment of non-verbal communication skills were challenging in the telehealth environment. Five themes and 15 subthemes emerged relating to advice for students and educators when assessing communication skills and a checklist was developed from recommendations that students and educators can use when preparing, planning, implementing, and assessing telehealth consultations. Assessing student communication skills via telehealth provides a useful opportunity with the growing use of the online environment, however, it also presents challenges that must be taken into consideration. While verbal communication skills are easier to assess than non-verbal, both need to be adapted for the telehealth setting.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 20-07-2020
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of a simulation-based learning (SBL) experience on perceived confidence in monitoring and evaluation, as part of the delivery of nutrition care of pre-placement dietetic students, and to describe their perceived value of the learning experience post-placement. A mixed method explanatory sequential study design was used. A confidence appraisal scale was developed and completed by students before (n = 37) and after (n = 33) a low fidelity simulation using a volunteer patient in an acute care setting. Two semi-structured focus group discussions with post-placement students (n = 17) were thematically analysed, grounded in phenomenology. Overall perceived confidence in monitoring and evaluating, as part of nutrition care, improved after the simulation [pre-SBL: 74 (62–83) vs. post-SBL: 89 (81–98.5), p = 0.00]. Two factors emerged to modulate confidence, namely (i) structure and (ii) authentic learning. Structure in turn was modulated by two key factors safety and process. A low fidelity simulation using a standardised patient can improve students’ perceived confidence in monitoring and evaluation, and a well-structured authentic learning experience was valued and positively perceived by most dietetic students.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 02-03-2015
DOI: 10.1007/S12603-015-0492-1
Abstract: To examine the association between body composition (fat mass, lean mass and body mass index, BMI) and bone health (bone mineral density, BMD and fracture risk) in urban black South African women. A cross sectional study examining associations between body composition, dietary intake (food frequency questionnaire), habitual physical activity (Activity energy expenditure (AEE) measured using an accelerometer with combined heart rate monitor and physical activity questionnaire) and bone health (BMD using dual-energy X ray absorptiometry, DXA and fracture risk). Urban community dwellers from Ikageng in the North-West Province of South Africa. One hundred and eighty nine (189) healthy postmenopausal women aged ≥43 years. Fat mass and lean mass were significantly associated with BMD and fracture risk when adjusted for potential confounders. However, lean mass and not fat mass remained significantly associated with femoral neck BMD (β = 0.49, p <0.001), spine BMD (β = 0.48, p< 0.0001) and hip BMD (β = 0.59, p< 0.0001). Lean mass was also negatively associated with fracture risk (β = -0.19 p =0.04) when both lean and fat mass were in the same model. Lean mass and fat mass were positively associated with femoral neck, spine and hip BMDs and negatively associated with fracture risk in urban black South African women. Our finding suggests that increasing lean mass rather than fat mass is beneficial to bone health. Our study emphasises the importance of positive lifestyle changes, intake of calcium from dairy and adequate weight to maintain and improve bone health of postmenopausal women.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 22-12-2020
DOI: 10.1111/JORC.12311
Abstract: To evaluate dietary sodium intake in people with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and identify contributing factors to low sodium intake by applying the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) framework. Non-dialysed people with CKD completed a 24-hour urinary sodium excretion test and Scored Salt Questionnaire (SSQ). A survey including socio-demographic information, Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire, Short Sodium Knowledge Survey and Dietary Sodium Restriction Questionnaire based on TPB measured the factors contributing to dietary adherence. Sixty-three people [age: 71 (IQR: 64-77) 27% female] participated with 80% having high urinary sodium excretion [median: 134 mmol/day (111 183)] but only 40% reported high sodium intake [SSQ score = 53 (39 75)]. Overall sodium knowledge was high in 57% of participants although only 33% had seen a dietitian. There was a positive correlation between attitude towards a low-sodium diet and subjective norm (social expectations), r = 0.44, p < 0.01 urinary sodium and the extent of perceived consequences of CKD (r = 0.26, p < 0.05) and the extent to which willpower was perceived as a barrier to adherence to dietary sodium restriction (r = 0.27, p < 0.05). Multiple regression analysis revealed taste of low-salt foods (β = 8.9, p < 0.01) explained 26.4% of variance in dietary sodium intake (R TPB successfully identified barriers to follow a low-sodium diet in non-dialysed people with CKD. Taste preferences, willpower, meeting social expectations and disease concern were identified as key contributing factors to adherence.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 11-05-2011
DOI: 10.1038/EJCN.2011.60
Abstract: The objective of this study is to determine the relative validity of reported energy intake (EI) derived from multiple 24-h recalls against estimated energy expenditure (EE(est)). Basal metabolic rate (BMR) equations and physical activity factors were incorporated to calculate EE(est). This analysis was nested in the multidisciplinary PhysicaL Activity in the Young study with a prospective study design. Peri-urban black South African adolescents were investigated in a subs le of 131 learners (87 girls and 44 boys) from the parent study s le of 369 (211 girls and 158 boys) who had all measurements taken. Pearson correlation coefficients and Bland-Altman plots were calculated to identify the most accurate published equations to estimate BMR (P<0.05 statistically significant). EE(est) was estimated using BMR equations and estimated physical activity factors derived from Previous Day Physical Activity Recall questionnaires. After calculation of EE(est), the relative validity of reported energy intake (EI(rep)) derived from multiple 24-h recalls was tested for three data subsets using Pearson correlation coefficients. Goldberg's formula identified cut points (CPs) for under and over reporting of EI. Pearson correlation coefficients between calculated BMRs ranged from 0.97 to 0.99. Bland-Altman analyses showed acceptable agreement (two equations for each gender). One equation for each gender was used to calculate EE(est). Pearson correlation coefficients between EI(rep) and EE(est) for three data sets were weak, indicating poor agreement. CPs for physical activity groups showed under reporting in 87% boys and 95% girls. The 24-h recalls measured at five measurements over 2 years offered poor validity between EI(rep) and EE(est).
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2013
No related grants have been discovered for Hattie H Wright.