ORCID Profile
0000-0002-2836-7838
Current Organisation
Avondale University
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Publisher: RCN Publishing Ltd.
Date: 25-01-2017
Abstract: The onset of type 2 diabetes mellitus is associated with various modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors, including lifestyle factors. Obesity is the principal lifestyle factor associated with an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. It is essential for nurses to have an understanding of the pathophysiology associated with factors that contribute to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, particularly those associated with obesity. Nurses who have an understanding of the interaction between obesity and the onset of type 2 diabetes are better equipped to discuss the importance of weight loss and other necessary lifestyle adjustments in the prevention and management of obesity and diabetes associated with obesity, to implement evidence-based practice and to support patients to manage their health effectively.
Publisher: Dietitians of Canada
Date: 07-2014
DOI: 10.3148/75.2.2014.72
Abstract: Purpose: The short-term effectiveness of the nutrition-centred Complete Health Improvement Program (CHIP) lifestyle intervention for improving selected chronic disease risk factors was examined in the Canadian setting. Methods: A total of 1003 people (aged 56.3 ± 12.1 years, 68% female) were self-selected to participate in one of 27 CHIP interventions hosted in community settings by Seventh-day Adventist churches throughout Canada, between 2005 and 2011. The program centred on the promotion of a whole-food, plant-based eating pattern, and daily physical activity was also encouraged. Biometric measures, including body mass index (BMI), blood pressure (BP), blood lipid profile, and fasting blood sugar (FBS), were determined at program entry and 30 days into the intervention. Results: Over 30 days, significant overall reductions (P .001) were recorded in the participants’ BMI (-3.1%), systolic BP (-7.3%), diastolic BP (-4.3%), total cholesterol ([TC] -11.3%), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol ([LDL-C] -12.9%), triglycerides ([TG] -8.2%), and FBS (-7.0%). Participants with the highest classifications of TC, LDL-C, TG, and FBS at program entry experienced approximately 20% reductions in these measures in 30 days. Conclusions: The CHIP intervention, which centres on a whole-food, plant-based eating pattern, can lead to rapid and meaningful reductions in chronic disease risk factors in the Canadian context.
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 13-04-2021
DOI: 10.3389/FPSYG.2021.644337
Abstract: Mental health is reaching a crisis point due to the ramifications of COVID-19. In an attempt to curb the spread of the virus and circumvent health systems from being overwhelmed, governments have imposed regulations such as lockdown restrictions and home confinement. These restrictions, while effective for infection control, have contributed to poorer lifestyle behaviors. Currently, Positive Psychology and Lifestyle Medicine are two distinct but complimentary disciplines that offer an array of evidence-based approaches for promoting mental health and well-being across a universal population. However, these strategies for improving mental health are typically used in isolation. This perspective calls for a new paradigm shift to create and rollout well-designed interdisciplinary universal multicomponent mental health interventions that integrates the benefits of both disciplines, and uses innovative digital mental health solutions to achieve scalability and accessibility within the limitations and beyond the COVID-19 lockdown and restrictions.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 09-07-2017
DOI: 10.1111/JOSH.12535
Abstract: We examined the body mass index ( BMI ) of students attending Seventh‐day Adventist (Adventist) schools in Australia in 2001 and 2012. A total of 3069 students attending Adventist schools in Australia responded to a health and lifestyle survey in 2001 (N = 1335) and 2012 (N = 1734). The survey captured self‐reported height and weight, demographics (age, sex, year level, religion), and select health behaviors. Compared with national norms, lower rates of overweight and obesity were observed in the study cohort, but higher rates of underweight. There was no change in the mean BMI of the students attending Adventist schools in Australia from 2001 to 2012. Regression analyses indicated that a lower BMI was associated with age, sex, more regularly eating breakfast, consuming less soft drink, and having a regular exercise program. The students reported a high consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains compared with Australian national norms, and 29% claimed to be vegetarian. Students attending Adventist schools appear to have a lower prevalence of overweight and obesity than the secular population, but a higher prevalence of underweight. The mechanisms through which Adventist schools may influence student's BMI warrants further investigation.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2015
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 21-04-2015
Publisher: Avondale University
Date: 2014
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 11-2013
Publisher: Avondale University
Date: 11-2015
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.JSAMS.2009.10.487
Abstract: The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of posture and body type on the experience of exercise-related transient abdominal pain (ETAP). Postural and somatotype assessments were performed on 104 active males and 55 active females aged 18.6+/-0.4 years (mean+/-SD) and were correlated against their self-reported experience of ETAP. In iduals demonstrating kyphosis were more likely to be susceptible to ETAP (p<0.01). Among the in iduals susceptible to ETAP, the extent of kyphosis and lordosis influenced the pain severity (p<0.05). There was no relationship between any measure of body type and ETAP. The findings indicate that postural abnormality, particularly in the thoracic region, influences the experience of ETAP.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 23-03-2004
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 26-05-2023
DOI: 10.1177/15598276231178762
Abstract: In the wake of COVID-19, the American College of Lifestyle Medicine offered its members an online 10-week multicomponent mental health and wellbeing program (The Lift Project), and extended the invitation to members from sister organizations associated with the Lifestyle Medicine Global Alliance. A total of 1785 members registered for the program, representing 39 countries. The website hosting the program recorded 9815 total visits over the 10 weeks. In a post-program questionnaire completed by 145 participants, 91% agreed or strongly agreed that the program supported their mental wellbeing, and participants reported their wellbeing as higher after the program as compared to its commencement (X 2 = 80.8, P .01). Ninety-four percent of respondents indicated they would recommend the program to a friend. Thematic analysis of open-ended responses included in the post-program evaluation indicated that the participants liked: the structure of the program and content covered the style of the video presentations and the practical application of the program. Some participants indicated they would have liked more time to engage with the program and would have enjoyed the provision of group meetings. In conclusion, healthcare organizations can support their members’ mental health and wellbeing by offering large-scale, evidence-based interventions.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 2014
DOI: 10.1155/2014/798184
Abstract: Most Western chronic diseases are closely tied to lifestyle behaviors, and many are preventable. Despite the well-distributed knowledge of these detrimental behaviors, effective efforts in disease prevention have been lacking. Many of these chronic diseases are related to obesity and type 2 diabetes, which have doubled in incidence during the last 35 years. The Complete Health Improvement Program (CHIP) is a community-based, comprehensive lifestyle modification approach to health that has shown success in addressing this problem. This pilot study demonstrates the effectiveness of CHIP in an underserved, rural, and vulnerable Appalachian population. Two hundred fourteen participants in CHIP collectively demonstrated significant reductions in body mass index, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and fasting blood levels of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, and glucose. If these results can be repeated in other at-risk populations, CHIP has the potential to help reduce the burden of preventable and treatable chronic diseases efficiently and cost-effectively.
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 04-2004
Abstract: The present study investigated the effect of ingested fluid composition on the experience of exercise-related transient abdominal pain (ETAP). Forty subjects, susceptible to ETAP, completed 4 treadmill exercise trials: a no-fluid trial and flavored water (FW, no carbohydrate, osmolality = 48 mosmol/L, pH = 3.3), sports drink (SD, freshly mixed Gatorade ® , 6% total carbohydrate, 295 mosmol/L, pH = 3.3), and reconstituted fruit juice (FJ, BERRI ® orange, 10.4% total carbohydrate, 489 mosmol/L, pH = 3.2) trials. Measures of the experience of ETAP and gastrointestinal disturbances, particularly bloating, were quantified. The FJ was significantly ( p .01) more provocative of both ETAP and bloating than all other trials. There was no difference among the no-fluid, FW, and SD in the severity of ETAP experienced, although the difference between the no-fluid and SD approached significance at the .05 level ( p = .056). There was a significant relationship between both the mean ( r = 0.40, p .01) and peak ( r = 0.44, p .01) levels of ETAP and bloating. When the level of bloating was controlled for, the FJ remained significantly ( p .01) more provocative of ETAP than the other conditions, with no difference between the FW and SD ( p = .37). The results indicate that in order to avoid ETAP, susceptible in iduals should refrain from consuming reconstituted fruit juices and beverages similarly high in carbohydrate content and osmolality, shortly before and during exercise. Further, the mechanism responsible for the heightened experience of ETAP in the FJ trial extends beyond a gastric mass explanation.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 08-05-2020
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 22-04-2014
Abstract: The Complete Health Improvement Program (CHIP) is a premier lifestyle intervention targeting chronic disease that has been offered for more than 25 years. The intervention has been used in clinical, corporate, and community settings, and the short-term and long-term clinical benefits of the intervention, as well as its cost-effectiveness, have been documented in more than 25 peer-reviewed publications. Being an easily administered intervention, CHIP has been presented not only by health professionals but also by non-health-trained volunteers. The benefits of the program have been extensively studied under these 2 delivery channels, consistently demonstrating positive outcomes. This article provides a brief history of CHIP and describes the content and structure of the intervention. The published evaluations and outcomes of the intervention are presented and discussed and future directions are highlighted.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2023
Publisher: Avondale University
Date: 11-2017
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 04-10-2020
Abstract: This study examined the effectiveness of a 10-week multimodal intervention for improving the mental health and emotional well-being of college students when included as a mandatory component of the students’ course of study. A total of 67 students (20.9 ± 5.4 years, 30 male/37 female) participated in the intervention that introduced a variety of evidence-based strategies for improving mental health and emotional well-being from the Lifestyle Medicine and Positive Psychology literature. Significant reductions were recorded in symptoms of depression (−28%, P .05), anxiety (−31%, P .05), and stress (−28%, P .01), whereas significant improvements were observed in mental health (18%, P .01), vitality (14%, P .01) and overall life satisfaction (8%, P .05). Effect sizes were larger than those reported by studies that have examined the in idual effectiveness of the strategies incorporated into the intervention, suggesting a compounding effect. Stratified analyses indicated that participants with the lowest measures of mental health and emotional well-being at baseline experienced the greatest benefits. The findings of the study suggest that meaningful improvements in the mental health and emotional well-being of college students can be achieved, and potentially magnified, by utilizing a multidisciplinary approach involving evidence-based strategies from Lifestyle Medicine and Positive Psychology.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 24-03-2022
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.AMJCARD.2011.07.069
Abstract: Lifestyle modification has been demonstrated to effectively reduce the risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease, but there is a perception that it is costly to administer and resource. The present study examined the results achieved by a 30-day lifestyle modification program (Coronary Health Improvement Project) delivered by volunteers in a community setting. Changes in selected biometric measures of 5,070 participants in the Coronary Health Improvement Project programs delivered throughout North America (January 2006 to October 2009), were assessed. Overall, significant reductions (p 280 mg/dl recorded an average reduction of 19.8%. A mean decrease of 16.1% in low-density lipoprotein levels was observed among those who entered the program with a low-density lipoprotein level >190 mg/dl. In iduals who presented with triglycerides >500 mg/dl recorded a mean reduction of 44.1%. The Framingham assessment forecast that approximately 70 cardiac events would be averted during the subsequent decade in the cohort because of the program. In conclusion, significant reductions in cardiovascular disease risk factors can be achieved in a 30-day lifestyle intervention delivered by volunteers, providing a cost-effective mode of administering lifestyle medicine.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 20-09-2021
Abstract: Sarcomas are a erse group of bone and soft tissue tumors that account for over 10% of childhood cancers. Outcomes are particularly poor for children with refractory, relapsed, or metastatic disease. Chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR T) cells are an exciting form of adoptive cell therapy that potentially offers new hope for these children. In early trials, promising outcomes have been achieved in some pediatric patients with sarcoma. However, many children do not derive benefit despite significant expression of the targeted tumor antigen. The success of CAR T cell therapy in sarcomas and other solid tumors is limited by the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). In this review, we provide an update of the CAR T cell therapies that are currently being tested in pediatric sarcoma clinical trials, including those targeting tumors that express HER2, NY-ESO, GD2, EGFR, GPC3, B7-H3, and MAGE-A4. We also outline promising new CAR T cells that are in pre-clinical development. Finally, we discuss strategies that are being used to overcome tumor-mediated immunosuppression in solid tumors these strategies have the potential to improve clinical outcomes of CAR T cell therapy for children with sarcoma.
Publisher: Avondale University
Date: 2013
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 18-04-2018
Publisher: Marwah Infotech
Date: 04-2015
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 19-08-2021
DOI: 10.3389/FPSYG.2021.716106
Abstract: Mental wellbeing amongst the general population is languishing—exacerbated by the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Digital mental health promotion interventions, that improve mental health literacy and encourage adoption of evidence-informed practical strategies are essential. However, attrition and non-adherence are problematic in digital interventions. Human support is often applied as an antidote yet, there is a paucity of randomized trials that compare different human support conditions amongst general population cohorts. Limited trials generally indicate that human support has little influence on adherence or outcomes in DMHPIs. However, providing participants autonomy to self-select automated support options may enhance motivation and adherence.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 04-05-2019
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 15-10-2015
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 14-04-2021
DOI: 10.2196/25358
Abstract: Digital mental health promotion interventions (MHPIs) present a scalable opportunity to attenuate the risk of mental health distress among nonclinical cohorts. However, adherence is frequently suboptimal, and little is known about participants’ perspectives concerning facilitators and barriers to adherence in community-based settings. This study aimed to examine participants’ perceptions of facilitators and barriers to adherence in a web- and mobile app–based MHPI for a nonclinical cohort. This qualitative study used inductive, reflexive thematic analysis to explore free-text responses in a postintervention evaluation of a 10-week digital MHPI. The intervention was administered using a web and mobile app from September to December 2018. Participants (N=320) were Australian and New Zealand members of a faith-based organization who self-selected into the study, owned a mobile phone with messaging capability, had an email address and internet access, were fluent in English, provided informed consent, and gave permission for their data to be used for research. The postintervention questionnaire elicited participants’ perceptions of facilitators and barriers to adherence during the intervention period. Key factors that facilitated adherence were engaging content, time availability and management, ease of accessibility, easy or enjoyable practical challenges, high perceived value, and personal motivation to complete the intervention. The primary perceived barrier to adherence was the participants’ lack of time. Other barriers included completing and recording practical activities, length of video content, technical difficulties, and a combination of personal factors. Time scarcity was the foremost issue for the nonclinical cohort engaged in this digital MHPI. Program developers should streamline digital interventions to minimize the time investment for participants. This may include condensed content, optimization of intuitive web and app design, simplified recording of activities, and greater participant autonomy in choosing optional features. Nonetheless, participants identified a multiplicity of other interin idual factors that facilitated or inhibited adherence.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 23-10-2017
Abstract: Lifestyle medicine interventions are typically intensive by design. This study explored the optimal “dosage” of a well-known lifestyle medicine intervention—the Complete Health Improvement Program (CHIP). A total of 2383 in iduals (mean age = 61.0 ± 9.2 years 34% males) participated in either an 8-session (N = 448) or 16-session (N = 1935) version of the CHIP intervention conducted over 4 weeks in community settings throughout North America. Both the 8- and 16-session groups experienced significant improvements in all the chronic disease risk factors measured. There was no difference between the changes experienced by the 8- and 16-session groups in lipid profile, fasting plasma glucose, or systolic blood pressure. The 8-session group experienced a significantly greater reduction in body mass (0.3 percentage points or 0.8 lbs, P .01), but the 16-session group recorded a significantly greater reduction in diastolic blood pressure (2.8 percentage points or 2.2 mm Hg, P .01). There was no clear difference between the outcomes achieved in 4 weeks by the 8- and 16-session versions of the CHIP lifestyle medicine intervention. This study suggests that the short-term outcomes achieved by a 16-session CHIP intervention can be achieved in half the number of sessions, which has implications from a resourcing and cost-effectiveness perspective.
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 12-2006
Abstract: To determine whether changes in lung function are associated with exercise-related transient abdominal pain (ETAP). Twenty-eight subjects susceptible to ETAP performed a flow-volume loop before (pre) and after (post) treadmill exercise. Fourteen of the subjects developed symptoms of ETAP during the exercise and completed the flow-volume loop while the pain was present. The remaining 14 subjects reported no symptoms of ETAP. Forced inspiratory vital capacity was essentially unchanged from pre to post in both groups (ETAP group −0.8% ± 5.1%, comparison group −0.9% ± 6.5%). Peak inspiratory-flow rate increased in both the ETAP group (12.4% ± 16.2%) and the comparison group (17.9% ± 16.6%), but the difference between groups (−4.6%, standardized effect size [EF] = −0.17) was trivial. Forced expiratory vital capacity decreased by approximately 4% in both groups (ETAP group −3.9% ± 3.3%, comparison group −4.0% ± 5.1%). Small differences in the mean change from pre to post between groups were recorded for peak expiratory-flow rate (−7.4%, EF = −0.28) and the forced expiratory volume in the first second of the test (−4.4%, EF = −0.44). ETAP does not appear to be associated with reduced inspiratory performance, suggesting that the diaphragm is not implicated directly in the etiology of ETAP. Expiratory power might be slightly reduced during an episode of ETAP, but the magnitude of this effect is unlikely to compromise exercise performance.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 03-04-2018
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 28-12-2021
DOI: 10.1177/08901171211062581
Abstract: Lifestyle modification programs have been shown to effectively treat chronic disease. The Coronary Health Improvement Program has been delivered by both paid professional and unpaid volunteer facilitators. This study compared participant outcomes of each mode in the United States. Pre- ost-analysis of CHIP interventions delivered between 1999 and 2012. Professional-delivered programs in Rockford Illinois 1999-2004 and volunteer-delivered programs across North America 2005-2012. Adults ≥21 years (professional programs N = 3158 34.3% men, mean age = 54.0 ± 11.4 years volunteer programs N = 7115 33.4% men, mean age = 57.4 ± 13.0 years). Body mass index, blood pressure (systolic and diastolic), blood lipid profile (total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein), and fasting plasma glucose. Analysis of Covariance, with adjustment for age, gender, BMI change and baseline biometric and effect sizes. The professional-delivered programs achieved significantly greater reductions in BMI (.4%, P .001) and HDL (1.9%, P .001) and the volunteer-delivered programs achieved greater reductions in SBP (1.4%, P .001), DBP (1.1%, P .001), TC (1.4%, P = .004), LDL (2.3%, P .001), TG (4.0%, P = .006), and FPG (2.7%, P .001). However, the effect size differences between the groups were minimal (Cohen’s d .1-.2). Lifestyle modification programs have been shown to effectively treat chronic disease. The Complete Health Improvement Program (CHIP) lifestyle intervention has been delivered by both paid professional and unpaid volunteer facilitators. This study compared selected chronic disease biometric outcomes of participants in each mode in the United States. It found volunteer-delivered programs do not appear to be any less effective than programs delivered by paid professionals, which is noteworthy as volunteers may provide important social capital in the combat of chronic disease.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 28-10-2020
Abstract: igital mental health promotion interventions (MHPIs) present a scalable opportunity to attenuate the risk of mental health distress among nonclinical cohorts. However, adherence is frequently suboptimal, and little is known about participants’ perspectives concerning facilitators and barriers to adherence in community-based settings. his study aimed to examine participants’ perceptions of facilitators and barriers to adherence in a web- and mobile app–based MHPI for a nonclinical cohort. his qualitative study used inductive, reflexive thematic analysis to explore free-text responses in a postintervention evaluation of a 10-week digital MHPI. The intervention was administered using a web and mobile app from September to December 2018. Participants (N=320) were Australian and New Zealand members of a faith-based organization who self-selected into the study, owned a mobile phone with messaging capability, had an email address and internet access, were fluent in English, provided informed consent, and gave permission for their data to be used for research. The postintervention questionnaire elicited participants’ perceptions of facilitators and barriers to adherence during the intervention period. ey factors that facilitated adherence were engaging content, time availability and management, ease of accessibility, easy or enjoyable practical challenges, high perceived value, and personal motivation to complete the intervention. The primary perceived barrier to adherence was the participants’ lack of time. Other barriers included completing and recording practical activities, length of video content, technical difficulties, and a combination of personal factors. ime scarcity was the foremost issue for the nonclinical cohort engaged in this digital MHPI. Program developers should streamline digital interventions to minimize the time investment for participants. This may include condensed content, optimization of intuitive web and app design, simplified recording of activities, and greater participant autonomy in choosing optional features. Nonetheless, participants identified a multiplicity of other interin idual factors that facilitated or inhibited adherence.
Publisher: Frontline Medical Communications, Inc.
Date: 2022
DOI: 10.12788/JFP.0285
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.JNEB.2014.08.016
Abstract: To determine the differential effect of gender on outcomes of the Complete Health Improvement Program, a chronic disease lifestyle intervention program. Thirty-day cohort study. One hundred thirty-six venues around North America, 2006 to 2009. A total of 5,046 participants (33.5% men, aged 57.9 ± 13.0 years 66.5% women, aged 57.0 ± 12.9 years). Diet, exercise, and stress management. Body mass index, diastolic blood pressure, systolic blood pressure, lipids, and fasting plasma glucose (FPG). The researchers used t test and McNemar chi-square test of proportions, at P < .05. Reductions were significantly greater for women for high-density lipoprotein (9.1% vs 7.6%) but greater for men for low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (16.3% vs 11.5%), total cholesterol (TC) (13.2% vs 10.1%), triglycerides (11.4% vs 5.6%), FPG (8.2% vs 5.3%), body mass index (3.5% vs 3%), diastolic blood pressure (5.5% vs 5.1%), and TC/high-density lipoprotein (6.3% vs 1.4%) but not different for systolic blood pressure (6% vs 5%). The greatest reductions were in participants with the highest baseline TC, low-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, and FPG classifications. The Complete Health Improvement Program effectively reduced chronic disease risk factors among both genders, but particularly men, with the largest reductions occurring in in iduals at greatest risk. Physiological or behavioral factor explanations, including differences in adiposity and hormones, dietary intake, commitment and social support, are explored. Researchers should consider addressing gender differences in food preferences and eliciting commitment and differential support modes in the development of lifestyle interventions such as the Complete Health Improvement Program.
Publisher: Marwah Infotech
Date: 05-08-2020
DOI: 10.21276/APJHS.2020.7.3.2
Abstract: Lifestyle interventions can effectively reduce chronic disease risk factors. This study examined the effectiveness of an established lifestyle intervention contextualized for low-literacy communities in Fiji. Ninety-six adults from four villages, with waist circumference (WC) indicative of risk of chronic disease, were randomly selected to an intervention or control group. Process evaluation indicated one intervention and one control village fulfilled the study protocol. There were no differences between intervention and control for body mass index BMI (P = 0.696), WC (P = 0.662), total cholesterol (TC) (P = 0.386), and TC:high-density lipoprotein (HDL) ratio (P = 0.485). The intervention village achieved greater reductions than the control village at 30 and 90 days for systolic blood pressure (30 days: −11.1% vs. −2.5%, P = 0.006 90 days: −14.5% vs. −6.7%, P = 0.019) pulse rate (30 days: −7.0% vs. −1.1%, P = 0.866 90 days: −7.1% vs. 4.3%, P = 0.027), and HDL (30 days: −13.9% vs. 1.7%, P = 0.206 90 days: −18.9% vs. 2.2%, P = 0.001) at 90 days only for diastolic blood pressure (−14.4% vs. −0.2%, P = 0.010) at 30 days only for low-density lipoprotein (−11.6% vs. 8.0%, P = 0.009) and fasting plasma glucose (−10.2% vs. 4.3%, P = 0.032). However, for triglycerides, the control achieved greater reductions than the intervention village at 30 days (35.4% vs. −12.3%, P = 0.008 marginal at 90 days 16.4% vs. −23.5%, P = 0.054). This study provides preliminary evidence of the feasibility and potential effectiveness of the intervention to lower several risk factors for chronic disease over 30 days in rural settings in Fiji and supports consideration of larger studies.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 14-09-2018
DOI: 10.1007/S10943-017-0495-9
Abstract: Students attending Seventh-day Adventist (Adventist) schools in Australia have been shown to have better health status and behaviours compared to secular norms, yet these schools cater for a high percentage of non-Adventist students. The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of religious affiliation (Adventist/non-Adventist) on the health status and behaviours of students attending Adventist secondary schools in Australia. The s le included 1734 students who responded to a health and lifestyle survey that captured demographic details, self-reported height and weight, self-reported health status, mental health and select health behaviours. Students who identified themselves as Adventist reported significantly better health behaviours than the non-Adventist students in several behavioural domains, especially among the male students. However, this did not translate to a difference in health status. Further research is needed to understand the causal mechanisms responsible for the potential health advantage of Adventist students, which may include family or church religious influences.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 22-08-2017
Abstract: Neurology is often not discussed in lifestyle medicine circles, but it might be an area that will propel the cause of lifestyle medicine in the future. This is especially relevant in increasingly common neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, which have no known disease modifying therapy but lifestyle factors are implicated in causation.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2013
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2008
DOI: 10.1016/J.JSAMS.2007.06.006
Abstract: Skeletal muscle cr has been proposed as the aetiology of exercise-related transient abdominal pain (ETAP). The aim of this study was to determine whether or not localised electromyographic (EMG) activity indicative of skeletal muscle cr is elevated during ETAP. Surface EMG activity was quantified at the site of ETAP in 14 symptomatic in iduals (ETAP group) while the pain was present and after the pain subsided. Additionally, measurements were taken in another 14 subjects (Comparison group) who performed the same experimental procedure but did not experience ETAP. In the ETAP group, localised EMG activity did not increase when the pain was present or decrease when the pain subsided. The level of EMG activity detected while the pain was present was indistinguishable from noise (0.20+/-0.18microV). No difference was observed between the ETAP and Comparison groups in the level of localised EMG activity (p=0.89) at any time. After the pain subsided in the ETAP group, EMG activity was recorded at the site of the pain while the subjects performed a diaphragm-dependent sniff manoeuvre (8.3+/-0.7microV) and a maximum voluntary contraction of the abdominal muscles (17.5+/-0.7microV). It was concluded that ETAP is not associated with elevated EMG activity, suggesting that the pain is not the result of muscle cr ing.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 11-11-2021
DOI: 10.2196/29866
Abstract: The global prevalence of mental health disorders is at a crisis point, particularly in the wake of COVID-19, prompting calls for the development of digital interdisciplinary mental health promotion interventions (MHPIs) for nonclinical cohorts. However, the influence of gender and age on the outcomes of and adherence to MHPIs is not well understood. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of gender and age on the outcomes of and adherence to a 10-week digital interdisciplinary MHPI that integrates strategies from positive psychology and lifestyle medicine and utilizes persuasive systems design (PSD) principles in a nonclinical setting. This study involved 488 participants who completed the digital interdisciplinary MHPI. Participants completed a pre and postintervention questionnaire that used: (1) the “mental health” and “vitality” subscales from the Short Form 36 (SF-36) Health Survey (2) the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21) and (3) Satisfaction With Life Scale (SWL). Adherence to the digital interdisciplinary MHPI was measured by the number of educational videos the participants viewed and the extent to which they engaged in experiential challenge activities offered as part of the program. On average, the participants (N=488 mean age 47.1 years, SD 14.1 77.5% women) demonstrated statistically significant improvements in all mental health and well-being outcome measures, and a significant gender and age interaction was observed. Women tended to experience greater improvements than men in the mental health and well-being measures, and older men experienced greater improvements than younger men in the mental health and vitality subscales. Multiple analysis of variance results of the adherence measures indicated a significant difference for age but not gender. No statistically significant interaction between gender and age was observed for adherence measures. Digital interdisciplinary MHPIs that utilize PSD principles can improve the mental health and well-being of nonclinical cohorts, regardless of gender or age. Hence, there may be a benefit in utilizing PSD principles to develop universal MHPIs such as that employed in this study, which can be used across gender and age groups. Future research should examine which PSD principles optimize universal digital interdisciplinary MHPIs. Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12619000993190 www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=377889 and Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12619001009101 www.anzctr.org.au/ACTRN12619001009101.aspx
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-2014
DOI: 10.1071/HE14041
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 03-09-2015
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 07-05-2020
Abstract: he escalating prevalence of mental health disorders necessitates a greater focus on web- and mobile app–based mental health promotion initiatives for nonclinical groups. However, knowledge is scant regarding the influence of human support on attrition and adherence and participant preferences for support in nonclinical settings. his study aimed to compare the influence of 3 modes of human support on attrition and adherence to a digital mental health intervention for a nonclinical cohort. It evaluated user preferences for support and assessed whether adherence and outcomes were enhanced when participants received their preferred support mode. ubjects participated in a 10-week digital mental health promotion intervention and were randomized into 3 comparative groups: standard group with automated emails (S), standard plus personalized SMS (S+pSMS), and standard plus weekly videoconferencing support (S+VCS). Adherence was measured by the number of video lessons viewed, points achieved for weekly experiential challenge activities, and the total number of weeks that participants recorded a score for challenges. In the postquestionnaire, participants ranked their preferred human support mode from 1 to 4 (S, S+pSMS, S+VCS, S+pSMS & VCS combined). Stratified analysis was conducted for those who received their first preference. Preintervention and postintervention questionnaires assessed well-being measures (ie, mental health, vitality, depression, anxiety, stress, life satisfaction, and flourishing). nterested in iduals (N=605) enrolled on a website and were randomized into 3 groups (S, n=201 S+pSMS, n=202 S+VCS, n=201). Prior to completing the prequestionnaire, a total of 24.3% (147/605) dropped out. Dropout attrition between groups was significantly different ( i P /i =.009): 21.9% (44/201) withdrew from the S group, 19.3% (39/202) from the S+pSMS group, and 31.6% (64/202) from the S+VCS group. The remaining 75.7% (458/605) registered and completed the prequestionnaire (S, n=157 S+pSMS, n=163 S+VCS, n=138). Of the registered participants, 30.1% (138/458) failed to complete the postquestionnaire (S, n=54 S+pSMS, n=49 S+VCS, n=35), but there were no between-group differences ( i P /i =.24). For the 69.9% (320/458 S, n=103 S+pSMS, n=114 S+VCS, n=103) who completed the postquestionnaire, no between-group differences in adherence were observed for mean number of videos watched ( i P /i =.42) mean challenge scores recorded ( i P /i =.71) or the number of weeks that challenge scores were logged ( i P /i =.66). A total of 56 participants (17.5%, 56/320) received their first preference in human support (S, n=22 S+pSMS, n=26 S+VCS, n=8). No differences were observed between those who received their first preference and those who did not with regard to video adherence ( i P /i =.91) challenge score adherence ( i P /i =.27) or any of the well-being measures including, mental health ( i P /i =.86), vitality ( i P /i =.98), depression ( i P /i =.09), anxiety ( i P /i =.64), stress ( i P /i =.55), life satisfaction ( i P /i =.50), and flourishing ( i P /i =.47). arly dropout attrition may have been influenced by dissatisfaction with the allocated support mode. Human support mode did not impact adherence to the intervention, and receiving the preferred support style did not result in greater adherence or better outcomes. ustralian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR): 12619001009101 www.anzctr.org.au/ACTRN12619001009101.aspx
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 11-05-2021
DOI: 10.1186/S40359-021-00577-8
Abstract: There is an urgent need for efficacious interventions to combat the global mental health crisis, and mental health promotion and primary prevention approaches are paramount. The aim of this study is to examine whether an online interdisciplinary intervention that incorporates evidence-based strategies from the disciplines of Lifestyle Medicine and Positive Psychology improves measures of mental health and emotional wellness. A randomized controlled trial with a wait-list control (N = 425, aged 46.97 ± 14.5, 69.9% females) was conducted in Australia and New Zealand. The intervention group participated in a 10-week online interdisciplinary intervention. Primary outcome measures of mental health and emotional wellness were taken at baseline (Week 1), post-intervention (Week 12), and 12 weeks post-intervention (Week 24). The wait-list control completed the same assessments. General Linear Modelling analyses indicated that the intervention group experienced significantly greater improvements than the wait-list control group over time in all outcome measures: mental health (F(319) = 7.326, p = 0.007) and vitality (F(319) = 9.445, p = 0.002) subscales of the Short Form Survey (SF-36) depression (F(319) = 7.841, p = 0.005), anxiety (F(319) = 4.440, p = 0.36) and stress (F(319) = 12.494, p 0.001) scales of the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21) and life satisfaction (F(319) = 8.731, p = 0.003) as measured by the Satisfaction With Life Scale. Within the intervention group, significant improvements were observed from Week 1 to 12 in all outcome measures: mental health (10%, t(167) = − 6.423), p 0.001, dz = 0.50), vitality (22%, t(167) = − 7.043, p 0.001, dz = 0.54), depression (− 41%, t(167) = 6.189, p 0.001, dz = 0.48), anxiety (− 38%, t(167) = 5.030, p 0.001, dz = 0.39), stress (− 31%, t(167) = 6.702, p 0.001, dz = 0.52) and life satisfaction (8%, t(167) = − 6.199, p 0.001, dz = 0.48). Improvements in the outcome measures remained significant in the intervention group at 12 weeks post-intervention. The online interdisciplinary intervention improved measures of mental health and emotional wellness suggesting that such interventions may be useful for mental health promotion and prevention. Trial registration The Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry. ACTRN12619000993190. Registered on 12 July 2019 (Retrospectively registered). The ANZCTRN is part of the WHO Primary Registries.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 29-09-2020
DOI: 10.2196/19945
Abstract: The escalating prevalence of mental health disorders necessitates a greater focus on web- and mobile app–based mental health promotion initiatives for nonclinical groups. However, knowledge is scant regarding the influence of human support on attrition and adherence and participant preferences for support in nonclinical settings. This study aimed to compare the influence of 3 modes of human support on attrition and adherence to a digital mental health intervention for a nonclinical cohort. It evaluated user preferences for support and assessed whether adherence and outcomes were enhanced when participants received their preferred support mode. Subjects participated in a 10-week digital mental health promotion intervention and were randomized into 3 comparative groups: standard group with automated emails (S), standard plus personalized SMS (S+pSMS), and standard plus weekly videoconferencing support (S+VCS). Adherence was measured by the number of video lessons viewed, points achieved for weekly experiential challenge activities, and the total number of weeks that participants recorded a score for challenges. In the postquestionnaire, participants ranked their preferred human support mode from 1 to 4 (S, S+pSMS, S+VCS, S+pSMS & VCS combined). Stratified analysis was conducted for those who received their first preference. Preintervention and postintervention questionnaires assessed well-being measures (ie, mental health, vitality, depression, anxiety, stress, life satisfaction, and flourishing). Interested in iduals (N=605) enrolled on a website and were randomized into 3 groups (S, n=201 S+pSMS, n=202 S+VCS, n=201). Prior to completing the prequestionnaire, a total of 24.3% (147/605) dropped out. Dropout attrition between groups was significantly different (P=.009): 21.9% (44/201) withdrew from the S group, 19.3% (39/202) from the S+pSMS group, and 31.6% (64/202) from the S+VCS group. The remaining 75.7% (458/605) registered and completed the prequestionnaire (S, n=157 S+pSMS, n=163 S+VCS, n=138). Of the registered participants, 30.1% (138/458) failed to complete the postquestionnaire (S, n=54 S+pSMS, n=49 S+VCS, n=35), but there were no between-group differences (P=.24). For the 69.9% (320/458 S, n=103 S+pSMS, n=114 S+VCS, n=103) who completed the postquestionnaire, no between-group differences in adherence were observed for mean number of videos watched (P=.42) mean challenge scores recorded (P=.71) or the number of weeks that challenge scores were logged (P=.66). A total of 56 participants (17.5%, 56/320) received their first preference in human support (S, n=22 S+pSMS, n=26 S+VCS, n=8). No differences were observed between those who received their first preference and those who did not with regard to video adherence (P=.91) challenge score adherence (P=.27) or any of the well-being measures including, mental health (P=.86), vitality (P=.98), depression (P=.09), anxiety (P=.64), stress (P=.55), life satisfaction (P=.50), and flourishing (P=.47). Early dropout attrition may have been influenced by dissatisfaction with the allocated support mode. Human support mode did not impact adherence to the intervention, and receiving the preferred support style did not result in greater adherence or better outcomes. Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR): 12619001009101 www.anzctr.org.au/ACTRN12619001009101.aspx
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 15-07-2019
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 28-11-0011
Abstract: he global prevalence of mental health disorders is at a crisis point, particularly in the wake of COVID-19, prompting calls for the development of digital interdisciplinary mental health promotion interventions (MHPIs) for nonclinical cohorts. However, the influence of gender and age on the outcomes of and adherence to MHPIs is not well understood. he aim of this study was to determine the influence of gender and age on the outcomes of and adherence to a 10-week digital interdisciplinary MHPI that integrates strategies from positive psychology and lifestyle medicine and utilizes persuasive systems design (PSD) principles in a nonclinical setting. his study involved 488 participants who completed the digital interdisciplinary MHPI. Participants completed a pre and postintervention questionnaire that used: (1) the “mental health” and “vitality” subscales from the Short Form 36 (SF-36) Health Survey (2) the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21) and (3) Satisfaction With Life Scale (SWL). Adherence to the digital interdisciplinary MHPI was measured by the number of educational videos the participants viewed and the extent to which they engaged in experiential challenge activities offered as part of the program. n average, the participants (N=488 mean age 47.1 years, SD 14.1 77.5% women) demonstrated statistically significant improvements in all mental health and well-being outcome measures, and a significant gender and age interaction was observed. Women tended to experience greater improvements than men in the mental health and well-being measures, and older men experienced greater improvements than younger men in the mental health and vitality subscales. Multiple analysis of variance results of the adherence measures indicated a significant difference for age but not gender. No statistically significant interaction between gender and age was observed for adherence measures. igital interdisciplinary MHPIs that utilize PSD principles can improve the mental health and well-being of nonclinical cohorts, regardless of gender or age. Hence, there may be a benefit in utilizing PSD principles to develop universal MHPIs such as that employed in this study, which can be used across gender and age groups. Future research should examine which PSD principles optimize universal digital interdisciplinary MHPIs. ustralian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12619000993190 www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=377889 and Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12619001009101 www.anzctr.org.au/ACTRN12619001009101.aspx
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 25-01-2023
DOI: 10.3389/FPSYG.2023.1127068
Abstract: Affective disorders are becoming more pervasive worldwide, including in Southern Africa, where treating patients with these conditions is challenging due to social and financial constraints. A variety of non-pharmacological approaches including lifestyle medicine (e.g., exercise, nutrition, sleep) and positive psychology practices (e.g., gratitude, service), are effective for treating mental health (MH) conditions. Twenty-six in iduals from South Africa with a diagnosed MH condition participated in a 10-week multimodal intervention incorporating a erse range of non-pharmacological strategies for improving MH. MH metrics were assessed pre-and post-intervention, including general MH, vitality/energy (VIT), depression, anxiety, stress, and satisfaction with life. MH and VIT were also measured weekly. Improvements were observed in all mental metrics from pre-to post-intervention: MH (59%, p & 0.001, Cohen’s D = 1.36), VIT (110%, p & 0.001, Cohen’s D = 1.71), depression (−46%, p & 0.001, Cohen’s D = −1.06), anxiety (−48%, p & 0.001, Cohen’s D = −1.21), stress (−36%, p & 0.001, Cohen’s D = −1.08) and life satisfaction (23%, p & 0.001, Cohen’s D = 0.66). Significant improvements in MH and VIT were observed after only 1 week of the intervention and progressively increased until the seventh week, after which further improvements were not statistically significant. The findings of this cohort study indicate that a multimodal intervention that incorporates lifestyle and positive psychology practices may benefit in iduals living with an affective disorder. Non-pharmacological, multimodal interventions might offer a stigma-free way of providing MH promotion and treatment at a population level.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 08-2003
Abstract: The causes of exercise related transient abdominal pain remain to be elucidated.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2005
DOI: 10.1016/S1440-2440(05)80006-4
Abstract: A questionnaire was administered to 848 participants (76% runners, 24% walkers) at the conclusion of the 14 km City to Surf community run in order to investigate their experience of exercise-related transient abdominal pain (ETAP). Twenty-seven percent of respondents reported experiencing ETAP during the event, with the condition reported more frequently (p< 0.01) by runners (30%) than walkers (16%). ETAP was mostly described as well-localised (88%) and of an aching (25%), sharp (22%) or cr ing (22%) sensation. The most commonly-reported sites of the pain were the right (46%) and left lumbar (23%) regions of the abdomen. Forty-two percent of the respondents who experienced ETAP reported that the pain was detrimental to their performance. Reports of ETAP decreased with age (r= -0.23, p< 0.01) but were unrelated to gender, body mass index or the time taken to complete the event. Among respondents who ran, those who consumed a large mass of food relative to body weight in the time interval 1-2 hr before the event were more likely to develop symptoms of ETAP (p < 0.05). The nutritional content of the pre-event meal did not influence the experience of ETAP. Sufferers of ETAP were more likely to experience nausea (r = 0.12, p< 0.01) and report shoulder tip pain (r= 0.14, p< 0.01). The results indicate that ETAP is a commonly experienced problem and provide insights into the cause of the complaint.
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 06-01-2020
DOI: 10.2196/15592
Abstract: The rapid increase in mental health disorders has prompted a call for greater focus on mental health promotion and primary prevention. Web- and mobile app–based interventions present a scalable opportunity. Little is known about the influence of human support on the outcomes of these interventions. This study aimed to compare the influence of 3 modes of human support on the outcomes (ie, mental health, vitality, depression, anxiety, stress, life satisfaction, and flourishing) of a 10-week, Web- and mobile app–based, lifestyle-focused mental health promotion intervention among a healthy adult cohort. Participants were recruited voluntarily using a combination of online and offline advertising. They were randomized, unblinded into 3 groups differentiated by human support mode: Group 1 (n=201): standard—fully automated emails (S) Group 2 (n=202): standard plus personalized SMS (S+pSMS) and Group 3 (n=202): standard plus weekly videoconferencing support (S+VCS), hosted by 1 trained facilitator. Participants accessed the intervention, including the questionnaire, on a Web-based learning management system or through a mobile app. The questionnaire, administered at pre- and postintervention, contained self-reported measures of mental well-being, including the “mental health” and “vitality” subscales from the Short Form Health Survey-36, Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale-21, Diener Satisfaction With Life Scale (SWLS), and Diener Flourishing Scale. Of 605 potential participants, 458 (S: n=157, S+pSMS: n=163, and S+VCS: n=138) entered the study by completing registration and the preintervention questionnaire. At post intervention, 320 out of 458 participants (69.9% S: n=103, S+pSMS: n=114, and S+VCS: n=103) completed the questionnaire. Significant within-group improvements were recorded from pre- to postintervention in all groups and in every outcome measure (P≤.001). No significant between-group differences were observed for outcomes in any measure: mental health (P=.77), vitality (P=.65), depression (P=.93), anxiety (P=.25), stress (P.57), SWLS (P=.65), and Flourishing Scale (P=.99). Adherence was not significantly different between groups for mean videos watched (P=.42) and practical activity engagement (P=.71). Participation in videoconference support sessions (VCSSs) was low 37 out of 103 (35.9%) participants did not attend any VCSSs, and only 19 out of 103 (18.4%) attended 7 or more out of 10 sessions. Stratification within the S+VCS group revealed that those who attended 7 or more VCSSs experienced significantly greater improvements in the domains of mental health (P=.006 d=0.71), vitality (P=.005 d=0.73), depression (P=.04 d=0.54), and life satisfaction (P=.046 d=0.50) compared with participants who attended less than 7. A Web- and mobile app–based mental health promotion intervention enhanced domains of mental well-being among a healthy cohort, irrespective of human support. Low attendance at VCSSs hindered the ability to make meaningful between-group comparisons. Supplementing the intervention with VCSSs might improve outcomes when attendance is optimized. Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR): 12619001009101 www.anzctr.org.au/ACTRN12619001009101.aspx
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2017
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2017
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 03-2010
DOI: 10.1123/IJSPP.5.1.55
Abstract: To evaluate the physiological challenges of competitive cross-country hang gliding. Seventeen experienced male pilots (age = 41 ± 9 y mean ± SD) were fitted with a monitor that recorded heart rate and altitude at 0.5 Hz throughout a competitive fight. Fluid losses were evaluated by comparing pilot pre- and postfight mass. The pilots’ displacement was 88.4 ± 43.7 km in 145.5 ± 49.4 min. Mean fight altitude was 1902 ± 427 m (range = 1363-2601 m) with a maximum altitude of 2925 ± 682 m (1870-3831 m). The mean in-fight heart rate of the pilots was 112 ± 11 bpm (64 ± 6% predicted HRmax). For all except one subject, heart rate was highest while launching (165 ± 12 bpm, 93 ± 7% predicted HRmax), followed by landing (154 ± 13 bpm, 87 ± 7% predicted HRmax). No statistically significant relationship was observed between heart rate during the launch and reported measures of state anxiety. Heart rate was inversely related ( P .01) to altitude for all pilots except one. Fluid loss during the fight was 1.32 ± 0.70 L, which approximated 0.55 L/h, while mean in-fight fluid consumption was 0.39 ± 0.44 L. Six pilots consumed no fluid during the fight. Even among experienced pilots, high heart rates are more a function of state anxiety than physical work demand. Fluid losses during fight are surprisingly moderate but pilots may still benefit from attending to fluid balance.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2009
No related grants have been discovered for Darren Morton.