ORCID Profile
0000-0001-6978-6249
Current Organisations
Rutgers University
,
Universidad de Granada
,
University of Western Australia
,
Edith Cowan University
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Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 13-08-2018
DOI: 10.3390/NU10081081
Abstract: The importance of vegetable ersity for the risk of falling and fractures is unclear. Our objective was to examine the relationship between vegetable ersity with injurious falling and fractures leading to hospitalization in a prospective cohort of older Australian women (n = 1429, ≥70 years). Vegetable ersity was quantified by assessing the number of different vegetables consumed daily. Vegetable intake (75 g servings/day) was estimated using a validated food frequency questionnaire at baseline (1998). Over 14.5 years, injurious falls (events = 568, 39.7%), and fractures (events = 404, 28.3%) were captured using linked health records. In multivariable-adjusted Cox regression models, women with greater vegetable ersity (per increase in one different vegetable/day) had lower relative hazards for falls (8% p = 0.02) and fractures (9% p = 0.03). A significant interaction between daily vegetable ersity (number/day) and total vegetable intake (75 g servings/day) was observed for falls (pinteraction = 0.03) and fractures (pinteraction 0.001). The largest benefit of higher vegetable ersity were observed in the one third of women with the lowest vegetable intake ( .2 servings/day falls HR 0.83 95% CI (0.71–0.98) fractures HR 0.74 95% CI (0.62–0.89)). Increasing vegetable ersity especially in older women with low vegetable intake may be an effective way to reduce injurious fall and fracture risk.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 11-2010
DOI: 10.1111/J.1532-5415.2010.03142.X
Abstract: To evaluate the effects of vitamin D treatment on muscle strength and mobility in older women with vitamin D insufficiency. One-year population-based, double-blind, randomized, controlled trial. Perth, Australia (latitude 32°S). Three hundred two community-dwelling ambulant elderly women aged 70 to 90 with a serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentration less than 24 ng/mL. Vitamin D(2) 1,000 IU/d or identical placebo calcium citrate (1 g calcium/d) in both groups. Lower limb muscle strength and mobility as assessed using the Timed Up and Go Test (TUAG). At baseline, mean ± standard deviation serum 25(OH)D was 17.7 ± 4.2 ng/mL this increased to 24.0 ± 5.6 ng/mL in the vitamin D group after 1 year but remained the same in the placebo group. For hip extensor and adductor strength and TUAG, but not for other muscle groups, a significant interaction between treatment group and baseline values was noted. In those with baseline values in the lowest tertile, vitamin D improved muscle strength and TUAG more than calcium alone (mean (standard error): hip extensors 22.6% (9.5%) hip adductors 13.5% (6.7%), TUAG 17.5% (7.6%), P < .05). Baseline 25(OH)D levels did not influence patient response to supplementation. Vitamin D therapy was observed to increase muscle function in those who were the weakest and slowest at baseline. Vitamin D should be given to people with insufficiency or deficiency to improve muscle strength and mobility.
Publisher: The Endocrine Society
Date: 03-2008
DOI: 10.1210/JC.2007-1466
Abstract: Context: Effects of long-term calcium, with or without vitamin D, on hip bone mineral density (BMD) and bone turnover in sunny climates have not been reported. Objective: The aim was to evaluate the effect of vitamin D added to calcium supplementation on hip dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry BMD and calcium-related analytes. Design, Setting, and Participants: The study was a 5-yr randomized, controlled, double-blind trial of 120 community-dwelling women aged 70–80 yr. Interventions: The interventions were 1200 mg/d calcium with placebo vitamin D (Ca group) or with 1000 IU/d vitamin D2 (CaD group), or double placebo (control). Main Outcome Measures: Hip BMD, plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D, biomarkers of bone turnover, PTH, and intestinal calcium absorption were measured. Results: Hip BMD was preserved in CaD (−0.17%) and Ca (0.19%) groups but not controls (−1.27%) at yr 1 and maintained in the CaD group only at yr 3 and 5. The beneficial effects were mainly in those with baseline 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels below the median (68 nmol/liter). At yr 1, compared with controls, the Ca and CaD groups had 6.8 and 11.3% lower plasma alkaline phosphatase, respectively (P ≤ 0.02), and 28.7 and 34.5% lower urinary deoxypyridinoline to creatinine ratio, respectively (P ≤ 0.05). At 5 yr, this suppression was maintained only in the CaD group. CaD reduced PTH at 3 and 5 yr cf. controls (27.8 and 31.3%, P ≤ 0.005) in those with baseline PTH levels above the median (3.6 pmol/liter). Therapy did not affect intestinal calcium absorption at high carrier loads. Conclusions: Addition of vitamin D to calcium has long-term beneficial effects on bone density in elderly women living in a sunny climate, probably mediated by a long-term reduction in bone turnover rate.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 16-01-2020
DOI: 10.3390/NU12010229
Abstract: Food connects people, and can significantly impact the physical, social and emotional development of young children. Food sharing and family-style mealtimes can support healthy eating practices and psychological well-being among young children, and carersother than family members, such as Early Childhood Education and Care staff, play an important role in the provision of these practices. Despite increasing numbers of Australian children attending Early Childhood Education and Care services, there is often reluctance among staff to promote such mealtime practices, to the detriment of children’s social and emotional development. The aim of this paper was to focus on the potential role of Early Childhood Education and Care services in facilitating food sharing and family-style mealtime practices in the earliest stages of the lifespan. A qualitative, netnographic approach was used, and data was collected as part of the broader ’Supporting Nutrition for Australian Childcare’ (SNAC) study, via online conversation threads, observations and qualitative interviews. Findings demonstrated that whilst many Early Childhood Education and Care services are committed to supporting food sharing and family-style mealtime practices, a number of barriers were reported. These included the perception that babies and toddlers could not participate in these practices, concerns about food hygiene and cross contamination of allergens, and negative parental influences on food sharing. In conclusion, this paper supports the practice of food sharing in Early Childhood Education and Care settings and calls for them to become embedded in everyday operations to support the physical, social and emotional development of Australia’s future generations.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 26-08-2015
DOI: 10.1111/JHN.12264
Abstract: Dairy intake is likely to influence dietary energy density (ED) and nutrient density (ND), which are factors representing aspects of dietary quality. Although evidence suggests dairy intake is unlikely to contribute to obesity, intake tends to decrease over adolescence, potentially as a result of concerns around weight gain. We examined associations between dairy intake, ED and ND, and investigated relationships with obesity in adolescents. The present study comprised a cross-sectional study of 1613 14-year-olds in the Western Australian Pregnancy Cohort (Raine) Study. Adolescents completed a 212-item food frequency questionnaire. Nutrient Rich Food index 9.3 (NRF9.3) was used to estimate ND. Age-specific body mass index (BMI) and waist-height cut-offs were used to categorise obesity risk. Mean (SD) dairy intake was: 2.62 (1.51) servings daily ED was 4.53 (0.83) (food and beverage) and 6.28 (1.33) (food only) ND was 373 (109). Dairy intake was inversely associated with ED and positively associated with ND. The odds of being overweight (as assessed by BMI) increased by 1.24 (95% confidence interval = 1.09-1.42) with each 100-point increase in ND, after adjustment for potential confounders and energy intake. ED measures and dairy intake were inversely associated with obesity after adjustment for confounders associations became nonsignificant after energy adjustment. The NRF9.3 was originally designed to assess foods, not diets. Further research in other cohorts to determine whether similar findings exist, or investigations into alternate measures of dietary ND, may prove useful. Our findings may be the result of factors such as an excess consumption of refined but fortified foods. Although higher dairy intakes were associated with higher ND, intakes were not associated with higher obesity risk.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2007
DOI: 10.1016/J.BONE.2007.03.014
Abstract: The decline in endogenous estrogen concentration after menopause is associated with accelerated bone loss. However, effects in older women remain controversial and the usefulness of estrogen status as a predictor of spine fracture has not been assessed. Therefore, we undertook a prospective cohort study of 1350 women mean age 75 years in order to study the role of endogenous estrogen concentration on the risk of morphometric X-ray absorptiometry (MXA)-defined vertebral deformity and atraumatic clinical spine fracture and the association of endogenous estrogen with bone structure. At 5 years 70 patients (5.2%) had sustained > or = 1 incident spine fracture. The fracture group had significantly lower concentrations of baseline free estradiol index (FEI) median (IQ range) (0.38 (0.22-0.60) vs. 0.49 (0.29-0.84) pmol/nmol, p=0.009). The patients in the lowest tertile of FEI (FEI 0.68) (HR 2.18: 95% CI 1.11-4.28). A low FEI was associated with an increased risk of a vertebral deformity over the 5-year study (OR 1.77: 95% CI 1.02-3.07) for the lowest compared to highest tertile. A low baseline FEI was associated with lower baseline QUS heel bone structure and DXA hip bone structure at 12 months and with deterioration in QUS heel bone structure 5 years later. The effect size of the FEI in predicting spine fracture was similar to the effect size for DXA BMD and heel QUS, probably because of the beneficial effect of the FEI on bone structure. The data suggest that the estrogen effect on reducing spine fracture is at least in part due to an effect on bone structure and its measurement does not significantly improve fracture prediction.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 25-06-2008
DOI: 10.1007/S00198-008-0666-3
Abstract: Few studies have investigated the long-term effects of potassium intake on BMD. In a cohort of 266 elderly women, we found that baseline potassium intake as reflected by 24-hour urine potassium excretion had positive association with BMD measured at 1 and/or 5 years later, suggesting a role of dietary potassium on osteoporosis prevention. High dietary potassium intake has been suggested to be beneficial for bone structure, but few studies have investigated the long-term effects of potassium intake on BMD in elderly women. We examined the relationship between potassium intake as reflected by 24-hour urine potassium excretion and bone density in a cohort of elderly women. The study subjects were 266 elderly postmenopausal women aged 70-80 years. Twenty-four-hour urinary potassium excretion was determined at baseline. At one year hip DXA BMD was measured, at 5 years hip and total body DXA BMD and distal radius and tibia pQCT vBMD were measured. The effects of potassium were evaluated by ANCOVA according to the quartile of baseline urinary potassium excretion. After adjustment for confounding factors, subjects in the highest quartile of urinary potassium excretion had significantly higher total hip BMD at 1 (5%) and 5 years (6%), and significantly higher total body BMD (4%) and 4% distal tibia total (7%) and trabecular vBMD (11%) at 5 years than those in the lowest quartile. Potassium intake shows positive association with bone density in elderly women, suggesting that increasing consumption of food rich in potassium may play a role in osteoporosis prevention.
Publisher: American Medical Association (AMA)
Date: 08-11-2011
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 02-08-2007
DOI: 10.1111/J.1532-5415.2007.01317.X
Abstract: To determine longitudinal predictors of incident and persistent fear of falling (FOF) in older women. Longitudinal study. Clinical research center based at a university hospital. One thousand two hundred eighty-two community-dwelling women aged 70 to 85. FOF at baseline and after 3 years of follow-up a range of baseline demographic and clinical variables, including mobility, balance, and depression. FOF was present in 418 subjects (33%) at baseline, developed in 30% of women who had been free of the symptom at baseline, and was reported by a total of 46% of the s le after 3 years of follow-up. In cross-sectional multivariable analysis, baseline FOF was independently associated with a range of variables, including living alone, obesity, cognitive impairment, depression, and impairments in balance and mobility. Baseline predictors of FOF that persisted after 3 years were similar, whereas obesity and slower timed up and go test scores predicted new-onset FOF. FOF in older women is a common and persistent complaint that is caused mainly by impairments of balance and mobility. A range of social, psychological, and physical risk factors for disability are associated with persistence of FOF. These results imply that early intervention may be important for the prevention of persistent FOF.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 12-2018
Abstract: WITH THE INCREASE IN prevalence of food allergy (FA) in young children, early childhood education and care (ECEC) providers are likely to have more enrolments of children who are at risk of anaphylaxis. This study examines the status of FA management in ECEC, and assesses the services’ current readiness to prevent and manage FA. A cross-sectional study comprising an online survey with multiple-choice and open-ended questions was conducted with 53 long day care services in Western Australia. Among the respondents, 83 per cent of services had at least one child enrolled with FA, 96 per cent had an FA policy, and 91 per cent required staff to undertake anaphylaxis training. A high level of self-reported confidence and skills were demonstrated however, gaps were identified in risk-minimisation knowledge, use of adrenaline (epinephrine) autoinjectors and available resources. Extensive promotion of available resources will help improve compliance with anaphylaxis guidelines.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 12-2018
Abstract: OPTIMAL NUTRITION IN THE early years of life is essential for long-term health. The Australian early childhood education and care (ECEC) sector offers a significant health promotion setting, but evidence indicates that the potential to promote healthy eating environments is not fully utilised. Supporting Nutrition for Australian Childcare (SNAC) is a web-based nutrition education resource developed to support ECEC professionals in providing healthy eating environments. SNAC provided additional support through forums intended to foster an online community of practice in this space. This particular aspect of the study sought to understand if ECEC staff demonstrated a sense of community by means of engaging with the website, and if they valued this as an additional means of support. After 12 months, the SNAC community had 1045 members. The sense of community was measured quantitatively with SCI-2 (n = 183), and qualitatively by netnographic analysis of conversation threads (n = 1179) and interviews (n = 42). Shared emotional connection was the only statistically significant SCI-2 construct and although social ties between in idual members were not apparent, there was a stronger connection between some members and the first researcher. SNAC continues to develop as an important online community of practice in the ECEC sector and is valued by those striving to provide healthy eating environments. It is a valuable platform on which to base future interventions.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2015
Abstract: Observational studies have linked tea drinking, a major source of dietary flavonoids, with higher bone density. However, there is a paucity of prospective studies examining the association of tea drinking and flavonoid intake with fracture risk. The objective of this study was to examine the associations of black tea drinking and flavonoid intake with fracture risk in a prospective cohort of women aged >75 y. A total of 1188 women were assessed for habitual dietary intake with a food-frequency and beverage questionnaire. Incidence of osteoporotic fracture requiring hospitalization was determined through the Western Australian Hospital Morbidity Data system. Multivariable adjusted Cox regression was used to examine the HRs for incident fracture. Over 10 y of follow-up, osteoporotic fractures were identified in 288 (24.2%) women 212 (17.8%) were identified as a major osteoporotic fracture, and of these, 129 (10.9%) were a hip fracture. In comparison with the lowest tea intake category (≤1 cup/wk), consumption of ≥3 cups/d was associated with a 30% decrease in the risk of any osteoporotic fracture (HR: 0.70 95% CI: 0.50, 0.96). Compared with women in the lowest tertile of total flavonoid intake (from tea and diet), women in the highest tertile had a lower risk of any osteoporotic fracture (HR: 0.65 95% CI: 0.47, 0.88), major osteoporotic fracture (HR: 0.66 95% CI: 0.45, 0.95), and hip fracture (HR: 0.58 95% CI: 0.36, 0.95). For specific classes of flavonoids, statistically significant reductions in fracture risk were observed for higher intake of flavonols for any osteoporotic fracture and major osteoporotic fracture, as well as flavones for hip fracture (P < 0.05). Higher intake of black tea and particular classes of flavonoids were associated with lower risk of fracture-related hospitalizations in elderly women at high risk of fracture.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 29-03-2019
DOI: 10.3390/NU11040738
Abstract: The objectives of this study were to: (i) Identify initiatives supporting healthy food availability, access and utilisation in the South West region of Western Australia (WA) and (ii) understand how they were functioning as a system to enhance community-level food security (FS). This study used a novel approach a Systemic Innovation Lab, to interview initiative leaders/stakeholders about their FS initiative. Initiative characteristics measured included those which were associated with creating the effective conditions for FS systems change. Information was uploaded to an innovative online tool, creating a ‘transition card’ (matrix) of initiatives and partnering organisations. Fifty-one participants reported on 52 initiatives. Initiatives were most likely to possess characteristics relating to reinforcing changes towards an enhanced way of working to address FS and creating disruption to the old way of working. The initiative characteristic that initiatives were least likely to possess related to identifying the different causal factors of FS, and working with other stakeholders on specific components of FS. The South West Food Community pilot project used a comprehensive yet defined approach to demonstrate the value of a place-based, co-design project. Participants and stakeholders could strengthen specific initiative characteristics to facilitate enhanced community-level FS.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 18-05-2017
DOI: 10.3390/NU9050511
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 07-2017
DOI: 10.1161/STROKEAHA.117.016844
Abstract: A short-term increase in dietary nitrate (NO 3 − ) improves markers of vascular health via formation of nitric oxide and other bioactive nitrogen oxides. Whether this translates into long-term vascular disease risk reduction has yet to be examined. We investigated the association of vegetable-derived nitrate intake with common carotid artery intima-media thickness (CCA-IMT), plaque severity, and ischemic cerebrovascular disease events in elderly women (n=1226). Vegetable nitrate intake, lifestyle factors, and cardiovascular disease risk factors were determined at baseline (1998). CCA-IMT and plaque severity were measured using B-mode carotid ultrasound (2001). Complete ischemic cerebrovascular disease hospitalizations or deaths (events) over 14.5 years (15 032 person-years of follow-up) were obtained from the West Australian Data Linkage System. Higher vegetable nitrate intake was associated with a lower maximum CCA-IMT (B=−0.015, P =0.002) and lower mean CCA-IMT (B=−0.012, P =0.006). This relationship remained significant after adjustment for lifestyle and cardiovascular risk factors ( P ≤0.01). Vegetable nitrate intake was not a predictor of plaque severity. In total 186 (15%) women experienced an ischemic cerebrovascular disease event. For every 1 SD (29 mg/d) higher intake of vegetable nitrate, there was an associated 17% lower risk of 14.5-year ischemic cerebrovascular disease events in both unadjusted and fully adjusted models ( P =0.02). Independent of other risk factors, higher vegetable nitrate was associated with a lower CCA-IMT and a lower risk of an ischemic cerebrovascular disease event.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2005
DOI: 10.1016/J.BONE.2005.01.006
Abstract: Postmenopausal osteoporosis and bone mass are influenced by multiple factors including genetic variation. The importance of LDL receptor-related protein 5 (LRP5) for the regulation of bone mass has recently been established, where loss of function mutations is followed by severe osteoporosis and gain of function is related to increased bone mass. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of polymorphisms in the LRP5 gene in regulating bone mass and influencing prospective fracture frequency in a well-described, large cohort of normal, ambulatory Australian women. A total of 1301 women were genotyped for seven different single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within the LRP5 gene of which five were potentially informative. The effects of these gene polymorphisms on calcaneal quantitative ultrasound measurements (QUS), osteodensitometry of the hip and bone-related biochemistry was examined. One SNP located in exon 15 was found to be associated with fracture rate and bone mineral density. Homozygosity for the less frequent allele of c.3357 A > G was associated with significant reduction in bone mass at most femoral sites. The subjects with the GG genotype, compared to the AA/AG genotypes showed a significant reduction in BUA and total hip, femoral neck and trochanter BMD (1.5% P = 0.032 2.7% P = 0.047 3.6% P = 0.008 3.1% P = 0.050, respectively). In the 5-year follow-up period, 227 subjects experienced a total of 290 radiologically confirmed fractures. The incident fracture rate was significantly increased in subjects homozygous for the GG polymorphism (RR of fracture = 1.61, 95% CI [1.06-2.45], P = 0.027). After adjusting for total hip BMD, the fracture rate was still increased (RR = 1.67 [1.02-2.78], P = 0.045), indicating factors other than bone mass are of importance for bone strength. In conclusion, genetic variation in LRP5 seems to be of importance for regulation of bone mass and osteoporotic fractures.
Publisher: American Physiological Society
Date: 05-2005
DOI: 10.1152/AJPENDO.00550.2004
Abstract: Osteoporosis is a disease that is strongly genetically determined. Aromatase converts androgens to estradiol in postmenopausal women, therefore polymorphisms of the gene for this enzyme may be associated with bone mass and fracture. We investigated the association of the TTTA microsatellite polymorphism in intron 4 of the aromatase (CYP19) gene with bone mineral density (BMD) and fracture in 1,257 women aged 70 yr and greater. The data obtained were stratified based on the presence or absence of a [TTTA]n of 7 (A2), determined from a preliminary analysis of hip dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry BMD, which was present in 27% of the population. The presence of an A2 allele was associated with a higher free estradiol index (0.52 ± 0.49, P = 0.049) compared with the absence of an A2 allele (0.47 ± 0.45) higher BMD at all sites of the hip (3.4% total hip, 2.3% femoral neck, 3.6% intertrochanter, 4.1% trochanter) and the lumbar spine (12.7%) higher values for the calcaneal quantitative ultrasound parameters broadband ultrasound (1.3%), speed of sound (0.4%), and stiffness (3.7%) and higher peripheral quantitative computed tomography measures for total (3.4%), trabecular (3.3%), and cortical BMD (3.3%) and the derived stress strain index (SSI) parameters SSI polar (6.4%) and SSI × (6.8%) values. A lower deoxypryridinoline creatinine ratio was observed in subjects with an A2 allele (30.3 ± 10.4 vs. 27.1 ± 9.1, P = 0.03). The A2 allele was associated with a lower prevalence of vertebral fracture in subjects who were osteoporotic (odds ratio 0.27, confidence interval 0.09–0.79). Therefore, a common polymorphism of the aromatase gene, perhaps in linkage disequilibrium with a functionally significant CYP19 polymorphism, is associated with bone structure and bone turnover, either by local effects or by effects on circulating bioactive estrogen.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 06-08-2016
DOI: 10.3390/NU8080481
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 09-11-2009
DOI: 10.1111/J.1365-2265.2009.03605.X
Abstract: To investigate the role of serum osteoprotegerin (OPG) and OPG gene polymorphisms in relation to cardiovascular (CV) and all-cause mortality in elderly women. The OPG/RANK/RANKL plays a vital role in bone cell biology. It has also been detected in myocardial tissue and atherosclerotic plaques. In some population studies, OPG and OPG gene polymorphisms have been associated with CV disease risk. In an 8.5-year cohort population study of 1333 postmenopausal women mean age 75.2 ± 2.7 years, serum OPG concentrations above the median were associated with an increased risk of all-cause [odds ratio (OR) 1.39 (1.04-1.85)], and in particular CV mortality [OR 1.83 (1.10-3.05)], before and after adjusting for age, BMI, treated hypertension, diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, previous HRT use, calcium supplementation and smoking. Genotyping the OPG gene did not provide further information on the association between OPG and CV risk or mortality events. Raised osteoprotegerin appears to be an independent risk factor for total and CV death and thus has potential as a useful biomarker of risk as well as a potential target for therapeutic intervention.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2008
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 10-2004
DOI: 10.1359/JBMR.040804
Publisher: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
Date: 07-02-2010
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.JAND.2018.09.004
Abstract: The Nutrition Care Process (NCP) and NCP Terminology (NCPT) is a systematic framework for critical thinking, decision making, and communication for dietetics practitioners worldwide, aiming to improve quality and patient safety in nutrition care. Although dietetics practitioners in several countries have implemented the NCP/NCPT during recent years, to date there is no globally validated instrument for the evaluation of NCP/NCPT implementation that is available in different languages and applicable across cultures and countries. The aim of this study was to develop and test a survey instrument in several languages to capture information at different stages of NCP/NCPT implementation across countries and cultures. In this collaboration between dietetics practitioners and researchers from 10 countries, an International NCP/NCPT Implementation Survey tool was developed and tested in a multistep process, building on the experiences from previous surveys. The tool was translated from English into six other languages. It includes four modules and describes demographic information, NCP/NCPT implementation, and related attitudes and knowledge. The survey was reviewed by 42 experts across 10 countries to assess content validity and clarity. After this, 30 dietetics practitioners participated in cognitive interviews while completing the survey. A pilot study was performed with 210 participants, of whom 40 completed the survey twice within a 2- to 3-week interval. Scale content validity index average was 0.98 and question clarity index was 0.8 to 1.0. Cognitive interviews and comments from experts led to further clarifications of the survey. The repeated pilot test resulted in Krippendorff's α=.75. Subsequently, refinements of the survey were made based on comments submitted by the pilot survey participants. The International NCP/NCPT Implementation Survey tool demonstrated excellent content validity and high test-retest reliability in seven different languages and across an international context. This tool will be valuable in future research and evaluation of implementation strategies.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 11-2010
DOI: 10.1007/S12603-010-0324-2
Abstract: As women age total dietary intake falls which may increase the risk of dietary deficiencies in some in iduals. The aims of this study were to investigate the changes in nutrient and dietary intakes that occurred with aging in a seven-year longitudinal study of elderly Australian women and to evaluate the adequacy of their dietary intakes. Longitudinal population based study on health with ageing. 911 free-living elderly women aged 70-85 years at baseline from a cohort of 1500 elderly women. At baseline, 60 and 84 months, self-reported Food Frequency Questionnaires (FFQ) and demographics were collected and anthropometry measured. During the 84 month subjects lost height (1.8 cm) and body weight (1.9 kg). Intakes of energy and macronutrients carbohydrate, fat and protein declined significantly over the 84 months. Mean energy derived from saturated fat was above, whereas energy derived from carbohydrate was below, recommended levels of intake at all time points. Intakes of vitamins and minerals all declined with age and subjects had suboptimal intakes of folate, vitamin E and calcium at all time points. The serve sizes for potato and meat and the consumption of milk, bread and variety of vegetables declined significantly over time reflecting changes in nutrient intake. Ageing is associated with reduced food intake resulting in inadequate intakes in energy, and some nutrients. Nutrition policy for elderly women should include advice to maintain or increase intakes of carbohydrate, milk, vegetables and fruit whilst continuing to reduce fat intake.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2004
DOI: 10.1007/S00223-002-0066-1
Abstract: Postmenopausal osteoporosis is a complex and heterogeneous disease influenced by multiple factors and related to peak bone mass achieved in early adult life, followed by a subsequent continuous bone loss. Genetic variance and polymorphisms have been shown to be of clinical significance for osteoporotic fragility fractures. Previous studies have related variations in the calcium sensor receptor (CASR) gene to circulating Ca levels and bone mass in young women and adolescent girls. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of the A986S polymorphism of the CASR gene on calcium homeostasis and bone metabolism in elderly women. We studied the distribution of the A986S polymorphism in a large cohort of 1252 ambulatory Australian women in relation to biochemical markers of bone metabolism, bone mass evaluated by quantitative ultrasound measurements (QUS) and DXA of the hip, prevalent and 36-month incident fracture data. No effect of the polymorphism was found on circulating calcium level, renal Ca excretion, or biochemical markers of bone turnover. Moreover, A986S was not associated with bone mass or prevalent or incident fractures. Power calculations revealed that a difference in circulating calcium levels of 0.05 mmol/l, a difference in DXA bone density of 24 mg, and a 1.6-fold difference in fracture rate could have been detected with a power of 80%. In conclusion, in a large cohort of elderly women the A986S polymorphism of the CASR gene was not found to be significant for calcium homeostasis or bone mass. It is questioned whether the polymorphism has any clinical significance for postmenopausal osteoporosis.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2002
DOI: 10.1016/S8756-3282(02)00851-7
Abstract: Some studies have reported an association between the apolipoprotein E4 (APOE4) allele and reduced bone density and increased propensity to fracture, but this remains controversial as other studies have not found an association between APOE4 and bone density or fracture. No information is available concerning the effect of the APOE4 allele on quantitative ultrasound (QUS) parameters. We therefore examined this issue in a population-based study of 1332 healthy elderly women, examining the effect of the APOE4 allele on QUS parameters at the calcaneus and comparing this to dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) bone mineral density (BMD) at the hip. In addition, we examined the effect of the APOE4 allele on fracture. Subjects who had at least one APOE4 allele (n = 308) had lower calcaneal QUS parameters and lower hip BMD at the total hip, trochanter, and intertrochanter, but not the femoral neck, compared to subjects without an APOE4 allele (n = 1024) after adjustment for age, body mass index (BMI), and smoking. The decrement in QUS parameters and BMD was approximately 2%. Those subjects having an APOE4 allele were also more likely to fall into a low bone density group, defined by a T score of <1 SD below the young normal range (odds ratio [OR] 1.55, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.08-2.22). We compared both prevalent and incident nontraumatic fractures over 2 years in the APOE4-present group compared with the APOE4-absent group. There were 354 subjects who entered the study with a history of one or more prevalent fractures, and 104 subjects sustained a nontraumatic fracture during the study. These fractures were not associated with the presence of the APOE4 allele, but a 2% decrement in BMD was unlikely to be associated with a statistically observable increase in fractures in this study. The APOE4 allele was not associated with a difference in any biochemical measures of bone formation or resorption, or in estrogen concentration, nor was it associated with a difference in BMI. Therefore, we conclude that the APOE4 allele is associated with a consistent decrease in both QUS parameters at the calcaneus and BMD at the clinically important hip site, and that this is not associated with differences in biochemical measures of bone formation or resorption.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-06-2005
DOI: 10.1007/S00198-004-1674-6
Abstract: A decline in postmenopausal estrogen concentration accelerates postmenopausal bone loss. We have examined the predictive power of endogenous estrogen production, DXA hip bone density (BMD), and heel quantitative ultrasound (QUS) on incident clinical fracture in a prospective 3-year population based, randomised controlled trial of calcium supplementation. Baseline blood testing on 1499 women mean (SD) age 75 (3) years for estradiol and sex hormone binding globulin measurements and ankle QUS measurements (Lunar Achilles) was undertaken. Bone density was measured using DXA (Hologic 4500A) at 1 year. Incident clinical fractures were confirmed by X-ray. At 3 years, 10% had sustained more than one incident fracture. The fracture group had significantly lower levels of free estradiol index (FEI) (0.40+/-0.44 versus 0.49+/-0.54 pmol/nmol), hip BMD (0.776+/-0.129 versus 0.815+/-0.124 g/cm(2)) and measures of QUS (BUA 98+/-8 versus 101+/-8 db/Hz, SOS 1504+/-22 versus 1514 +/-26 m/s stiffness 67+/-11 versus 71+/-11 % mean young adult), respectively, than the non-fracture group. After adjustment for age, weight, use of topical estrogen, calcium supplementation and prevalent fracture, incident fracture was predicted by free estradiol index (HR per SD: 1.43:95%CI: 1.08-1.91, P=0.013). After adjustment for BMD, SOS or stiffness, the free estradiol index no longer predicted fracture. When examined separately, the presence of a vertebral or an appendicular fracture was associated with an 18% lower free estradiol index compared with no fracture. The risk of vertebral fracture increased with decreased free estradiol index (HR per SD reduction: 1.63:95% CI: 0.91-2.92) the risk of appendicular fracture also increased with decreased free estradiol index (HR per SD reduction: 1.45:95% CI: 1.05-2.01) after adjustment for age, weight, use of topical estrogen, calcium supplementation and prevalent fracture. After further adjustment for hip BMD or QUS measures, the effect of free estradiol index was no longer significant for vertebral or appendicular fractures. Therefore, a low free estradiol index increases the probability of having an incident fracture as a result of decreased BMD. These data confirm the importance of postmenopausal estrogen concentration in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis in elderly women.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 04-2011
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 19-01-2017
DOI: 10.1071/HE16090
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2017
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2014
DOI: 10.1038/JID.2013.337
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 20-10-2024
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 30-09-2011
DOI: 10.1002/HEP.24666
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 20-03-2022
DOI: 10.1186/S12937-022-00770-4
Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the Australian food supply through changed consumer purchasing patterns, and potentially, household food security. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of COVID-19 on the prevalence of food insecurity and food supply issues, and perspectives of food supply stakeholders in regional Australia. A mixed-methods consumer survey and in-depth interviews with food supply stakeholders were conducted in regional Australia, more specifically South West Western Australia between May and July 2020, immediately after the 1 The prevalence of food insecurity was 21% among consumers, and significantly more prevalent for those aged less than 30 years and living with a disability. Most consumers (73%) agreed that the COVID-19 pandemic had impacted the food supply. Food insecure respondents were more likely to report that food was more expensive, resulting in changes to the types and quantities of food bought. Food supply stakeholders perceived that consumers increased their intention to buy locally grown produce. Panic buying temporarily reduced the availability of food for both food suppliers and consumers, regardless of their food security status. This study provided novel insights from South West Australian consumer and food supply stakeholder perceptions. Food insecure consumers provided insights about the high cost of food and the subsequent adaptation of their shopping habits, namely type and amount of food purchased. Stakeholder perceptions largely focused on supply chain issues and corroborated consumer reports.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 09-2005
DOI: 10.1007/S00223-004-0291-X
Abstract: Osteoporosis is known to have a strong genetic basis. It has been proposed that polymorphisms within the KL (klotho) gene have a significant effect on aging, in particular, the osteoblast defect of aging. The association between polymorphisms within this gene and biochemical markers of bone formation and resorption, bone structure, and fracture rates was studied in 1,190 postmenopausal women with a mean age of 75 years. Genotyping of these polymorphic sites was carried out using Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization--Time of Flight (MALDI-ToF) mass spectrometry. The G allele of SNP c.1775G>A was associated with a lower osteocalcin level than the A allele (P = 0.004) in a codominant model. SNPs C-387T and IVS1+8262c>t both showed nonsignificant associations with osteocalcin (P values of 0.063 and 0.068, respectively), but a haplotype analysis of 2 of 5 haplotypes of the three SNPs with a frequency greater than 4% revealed a significant association with osteocalcin (P = 0.036). None of the in idual polymorphisms or haplotypes analyzed showed any associations with a marker of bone resorption the deoxypyridinoline creatinine ratio, bone structure, or fracture data. Therefore, the G polymorphism within the c.1775G>A SNP site and a haplotype including this are associated with a reduced osteoblast product osteocalcin. These data suggest that variation in the KL gene product affects osteoblast activity independent of osteoclast activity but that this defect does not result in an effect on bone structure in this population, perhaps because of "rescue" by other genetic or environmental factors in this population.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 1997
DOI: 10.1007/BF01623455
Publisher: No publisher found
Date: 2002
DOI: 10.1046/J.1532-5415.2002.50012.X
Abstract: To examine whether fear of falling is a probable cause of reduced recreational physical activity levels in healthy older women. Cross-sectional analysis of baseline data from a longitudinal study. One thousand five hundred older, ambulatory women (aged 70-85), selected at random from the electoral roll. Self-reported recreational physical activity levels and fear of falling, demographic variables, anthropometric variables and measures of disability, and physical and cognitive function. The study subjects had low levels of physical and cognitive impairments 24.1% of the group was obese (body mass index> 30). Twenty-six percent of the women did not participate in recreational physical activity 39% participated in sufficient activity to gain probable health benefits. Although the women who did not participate in recreational activities were most likely to report fear of falling (45.2%), it was common in the group as a whole (33.9%), including the most active women (27.0%). Independent risk factors for nonparticipation in physical activity were fear of falling (odds ratio (OR)=0.70, 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.54-0.90, P=.006), obesity (OR=0.50, 95% CI=0.38-0.66, P=.001), and slower times on the timed up-and-go test (OR=0.88, 95% CI=0.84-0.92, P=.001). Fear of falling was also independently associated with lower recreational physical activity levels in women who were active (beta=-0.09, P=.003). Subgroup analysis suggested that fear of falls affected activity levels at a predisability stage in women with mildly impaired mobility. Fear of falling is common in healthy, high-functioning older women and is independently associated with reduced levels of participation in recreational physical activity. Fear of falling is an important psychological barrier that may need to be overcome in programs attempting to improve activity levels in older women.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 28-09-2013
DOI: 10.1007/S12603-012-0382-8
Abstract: Identify the extent of under-reporting of energy intake and the characteristics associated with implausible intakes in elderly women. Dietary intake was assessed using a 3-day weighed food record. Protein intake was validated by 24-hour urinary nitrogen. To examine under-reporting, participants were grouped according to their energy intake and compared to the Goldberg cut-off equation. Logistic regression was performed to assess the influence of body mass index (BMI) and social-demographic factors on under-reporting. Community dwelling elderly women from Perth, Western Australia. 217 elderly women aged 70-80 years. Under-reporters had a higher physical activity level (p<0.001) compared with acceptable-reporters. The under-reporters also had a higher body weight (p=0.006), body mass index (BMI) (p=0.001), waist (p=0.011), hip circumference (p<0.001), whole body fat mass (p<0.001) and percentage body fat (p<0.001) than acceptable-reporters. Under-reporters had a significantly lower intakes of protein, fat, carbohydrate and alcohol (p<0.001) and fewer reported food items, compared with acceptable reporters. However, 24-hour urinary nitrogen was only marginally different between the two groups (p=0.053). Participants with a higher BMI were more likely to under-report their energy intake (BMI=25-29.9: odds ratio=2.98[95% CI=1.46-6.09] BMI≥30: 5.84[2.41-14.14]). Under-reporting energy intake in elderly women was associated with a higher BMI, body fat and higher self-reported physical activity levels. A higher BMI (≥25) appears to be most significant factor in determining if elderly women will underreport their food intake and may be related to body image. These results have implications for undertaking surveys of food intake in elderly women.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 02-12-2006
DOI: 10.1007/S00198-006-0289-5
Abstract: Meaured spinal kyphosis, as a predictor of prevalent and incident vertebral deformity, was examined in older women (>70 years) and found to not have sufficient sensitivity or specificity to justify its use as a predictor of present or future vertebral deformity risk. Kyphosis may be attributable to vertebral deformity and was investigated as a clinical tool for predicting the presence and future risk of vertebral deformity. Kyphosis was measured in 434 women aged 70 years or older and the kyphosis index (KI) calculated. Prevalent and incident vertebral deformities were assessed by morphometric X-ray absorptiometry (MXA). The predictive value of KI was examined. Severity of kyphosis was categorised by tertile of KI 65% of anterior thoracic deformities occurred in the 33% of subjects in the highest (most kyphotic) tertile. Using this tertile as a predictor of anterior thoracic deformity, the probability for a positive test rose from 14% for the whole population to 28% and for a negative test the probability fell to 8%. For any spinal deformity the highest tertile of KI increased the probability of a positive test from 34% to 42% and reduced the probability for a negative test to 30%. The incidence of new deformities was 6% over 4 years a high KI tertile did not increase the probability of any vertebral deformity. Severe kyphosis does not increase the probability of detection of a prevalent or incident spinal deformity sufficiently to make it a useful method of selecting patients for further evaluation of spinal deformity.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 11-2009
DOI: 10.1359/JBMR.090513
Abstract: Long-term effects of high dietary protein intake on muscle and bone structure in the elderly are not clear. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between baseline protein intake and lean mass and BMC 5 yr later in a cohort of elderly postmenopausal women. A total of 862 community-dwelling women 75 +/- 3 yr of age provided baseline data including nutrient intake assessed by a food frequency questionnaire. At 5 yr, upper arm muscle area (UAMA) and body composition using DXA were measured. Baseline protein intake was 81 +/- 28 g/d (1.2 +/- 0.4 g/kg/d), contributing 19 +/- 3% of total energy intake. There were positive correlations between baseline protein intake and whole body and appendicular bone-free lean mass and BMC (r = 0.14-0.18, p < 0.001) and UAMA (r = 0.08, p < 0.05). Compared with those in the lowest tertile of protein intake ( 87 g/d) had 5.4-6.0% higher whole body and appendicular lean mass and UAMA and 5.3-6.0% higher whole body and appendicular BMC. These effects remained after adjusting for potential confounders. However, the effect on BMC disappeared after further adjustment for lean mass. This study shows that high protein intake is associated with long-term beneficial effects on muscle mass and size and bone mass in elderly women. The protein effect on bone may be partly mediated by its effects on muscle.
Publisher: American Medical Association (AMA)
Date: 14-01-2008
DOI: 10.1001/ARCHINTERNMED.2007.31
Abstract: Ergocalciferol (vitamin D(2)) supplementation plays a role in fall prevention, but the effect in patients living in the community in sunny climates remains uncertain. We evaluated the effect of ergocalciferol and calcium citrate supplementation compared with calcium alone on the risk of falls in older women at high risk of falling. A 1-year population-based, double-blind, randomized controlled trial of 302 community-dwelling ambulant older women aged 70 to 90 years living in Perth, Australia (latitude, 32 degrees S), with a serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration of less than 24.0 ng/mL and a history of falling in the previous year. Participants were randomized to receive ergocalciferol, 1000 IU/d, or identical placebo (hereinafter, ergocalciferol and control groups, respectively). Both groups received calcium citrate, 1000 mg/d. Fall data were collected every 6 weeks. Ergocalciferol therapy reduced the risk of having at least 1 fall over 1 year after adjustment for baseline height, which was significantly different between the 2 groups (ergocalciferol group, 53.0% control group, 62.9% odds ratio [OR], 0.61 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.37-0.99). When those who fell were grouped by the season of first fall or the number of falls they had, ergocalciferol treatment reduced the risk of having the first fall in winter and spring (ergocalciferol group, 25.2% control group, 35.8% OR, 0.55 95% CI, 0.32-0.96) but not in summer and autumn, and reduced the risk of having 1 fall (ergocalciferol group, 21.2% control group, 33.8% OR, 0.50 95% CI, 0.28-0.88) but not multiple falls. Patients with a history of falling and vitamin D insufficiency living in sunny climates benefit from ergocalciferol supplementation in addition to calcium, which is associated with a 19% reduction in the relative risk of falling, mostly in winter.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2006
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 17-09-2010
DOI: 10.3390/NU2091036
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 08-2008
DOI: 10.1359/JBMR.080327
Abstract: There are few data on the relative effects of calcium supplementation with or without extra vitamin D on BMD in patients selected for low vitamin D status. The aim of this study is to evaluate the relative importance of vitamin D and calcium treatment on BMD and bone-related chemistry in elderly women with vitamin D insufficiency. Three hundred two elderly women (age, 77.2 +/- 4.6 yr) with serum 25(OH)D concentrations <60 nM participated in a 1-yr randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. All subjects received 1000 mg calcium citrate per day with either 1000 IU ergocalciferol (vitamin D(2)) or identical placebo (control). The effects of time and time treatment interactions were evaluated by repeated-measures ANOVA. At baseline, calcium intake was 1100 mg/d, and 25(OH)D was 44.3 +/- 12.9 nM this increased in the vitamin D group by 34% but not the control group after 1 year (59.8 +/- 13.8 versus 45.0 +/- 13.3 nM, p < 0.001). Total hip and total body BMD increased significantly, and procollagen type I intact N-terminal propeptide (PINP) decreased during the study with no difference between the treatment groups (hip BMD change: vitamin D, +0.5% control, +0.2% total body BMD change: vitamin D, +0.4% control, +0.4% PINP change: vitamin D, -3.9% placebo, -2.8%). Although the fasting plasma and urine calcium increased in both groups equally, there was no detectable change in serum PTH. The increase in 25(OH)D achieved with vitamin D supplementation had no extra effect on active fractional intestinal calcium absorption, which fell equally in both groups (vitamin D, -17.4% control, -14.8%). In patients with a baseline calcium intake of 1100 mg/d and vitamin D insufficiency, vitamin D(2) 1000 IU for 1 year has no extra beneficial effect on bone structure, bone formation markers, or intestinal calcium absorption over an additional 1000 mg of calcium. Vitamin D supplementation adds no extra short-term skeletal benefit to calcium citrate supplementation even in women with vitamin D insufficiency.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 11-2018
DOI: 10.3390/NU10111603
Abstract: Fruit and vegetables (F& V) are imperative for good health, yet less than one per cent of Australian children consume these food groups in sufficient quantities. As guided by Social Cognitive Theory (SCT), this paper aimed to: (i) understand key informant perspectives of the amount, types and quality of F& V consumed by rural and remote Western Australian (WA) children and, (ii) determine strategies that could increase F& V consumption among rural and remote WA children. This qualitative study included 20 semi-structured interviews with health, school/youth and food supply workers, focusing on topics including: quantity and type of F& V consumed and strategies to increase children’s consumption. A thematic analysis was conducted using NVivo qualitative data analysis software (Version 10, 2014. QSR International Pty Ltd., Doncaster, Victoria, Australia). Key informants reported children consumed energy-dense nutrient-poor foods in place of F& V. Strategy themes included: using relevant motivators for children to increase their preference for F& V (i.e., gaming approach, SCT construct of ‘expectations’) empowering community-driven initiatives (i.e., kitchen gardens, SCT construct of ‘environment’) increasing food literacy across settings (i.e., food literacy skills, SCT construct of ‘behavioural capacity’) developing salient messages and cooking tips that resonate with parents (i.e., parent newsletters, SCT construct of ‘self-control’) increasing F& V availability, safety, and convenience (i.e., school provision) and, considering the impact of role models that extend beyond the family (i.e., relatable role models, SCT construct of ‘observational learning’). Overall, a comprehensive strategy that incorporates relevant motivators for children and families, supports local initiatives, reinforces the range of role models that are involved with children and creates healthier environments, is required to increase F& V consumption among children.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2003
DOI: 10.1016/S8756-3282(03)00158-3
Abstract: Osteoporosis is a disease that is strongly genetically determined and polymorphisms present in a range of candidate genes may be involved. A number of previous studies have shown an association between the T869C functional polymorphism of the gene for transforming growth factor beta (TGF beta) and bone mineral density (BMD) and fracture, but these studies have been limited to relatively small studies of selected subjects. In a population-based study of 1337 white women over age 70 we examined the TGF beta T869 polymorphism in relation to BMD, calcaneal quantitative ultrasound (QUS), and prevalent and incident fracture. The TGF beta C allele was observed in 50% of the subjects and was associated with reduced hip BMD at all sites (2.8% total hip, 2.4% femoral neck, 2.6% intertrochanter, and 3.4% trochanter) compared to the TGF beta TT genotype. The TGF beta C allele was also associated with a reduction in the QUS parameters BUA, SOS, and stiffness of 0.87%, 0.26%, and 2.4%, respectively, compared to the TGF beta TT genotype. After adjustment for body mass index in an analysis of variance model, the effect of the TGF beta C allele remained significant at the total hip, the femoral neck, and the trochanter, and for the QUS SOS and stiffness parameters. The TGF beta C allele was associated with an increase in osteoporosis [T score < or =-2.5 SD odds ratio (OR) 2.07 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.19-3.60] and prevalent fracture (1.37 95% CI 1.06-1.75). After adjustment for BMD and QUS stiffness, the association of the TGF beta C allele with prevalent fracture was still present (OR 1.40 95% CI 1.04-1.89), suggesting that the effect of the C allele on fracture was independent of a reduction in BMD and QUS stiffness. Subjects with normal BMD and a TGF beta C allele had an increased risk of incident fracture over 3 years compared to subjects with normal BMD and a TGF beta TT genotype (relative risk 3.95 95% CI 1.52-10.29). This association was not found in osteopenic or in osteoporotic subjects, indicating a BMD-TGF beta C allele interaction in relation to the association of the TGF beta C allele with fracture risk. These findings are of potential clinical usefulness, as the TGF beta T869C genotype could be used, in conjunction with other genetic and clinical information, to determine an in idual's risk of osteoporosis.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 13-09-2011
DOI: 10.1017/S0007114511004740
Abstract: Short-term randomised, controlled trials have found that dietary protein relative to carbohydrate can reduce blood pressure. Our objective was to investigate the effects on blood pressure of an increase in protein intake from whey over 2 years in women aged over 70 years. From the general population, 219 women aged between 70 and 80 years were recruited to a 2-year randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled parallel-design trial: 181 women completed the trial to the end of year 2. Participants were randomly assigned to consume a daily whey protein-based beverage (protein) or an energy-matched low-protein high-carbohydrate beverage (control). Blood pressure measurements were performed at baseline, year 1 and year 2. For protein relative to control, the estimated mean net differences in protein and carbohydrate intakes were 18 (95 % CI 13, 23) and − 22 (95 % CI − 9, − 35) g/d at year 1, and 22 (95 % CI 17, 28) and − 18 (95 % CI − 6, − 31) g/d at year 2. Intention-to-treat analysis found no overall differences between groups in blood pressure ( P ·5). Net differences in systolic and diastolic blood pressure were − 2·3 (95 % CI − 5·3, 0·7) and − 1·5 (95 % CI − 3·6, 0·6) mmHg at year 1, and 1·6 (95 % CI − 1·5, 4·7) and 0·3 (95 % CI − 1·9, 2·4) mmHg at year 2. Similar differences in systolic and diastolic blood pressure at years 1 and 2 were observed with per-protocol analysis. Therefore, the present study did not provide evidence that a higher whey protein intake in older women can have prolonged effects on blood pressure.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 18-12-2020
DOI: 10.3390/NU12123876
Abstract: The Australia and New Zealand Ministerial Forum on Food Regulation has supported the recommendations set out in the 2019 Health Star Rating System Five Year Review Report. Specifically, the forum supported, in principle, Recommendation 9, to mandate the Health Star Rating if clear uptake targets were not achieved while the system is voluntary. Given that mandatory labelling is being considered, it is important to investigate how much consumers value the Health Star Rating in order to understand potential consumer uptake and inform industry. The aim of this study was to assess consumers’ valuation of the Health Star Rating system by analysing their willingness to pay for a packaged food product with the Health Star Rating label, utilising a double-bounded dichotomous choice contingent valuation approach. The results indicate that almost two-thirds of Australian household grocery shoppers were willing to pay more for a product with the Health Star Rating, on average up to an additional 3.7% of the price of the product. However, public health nutrition benefits associated with consumers’ willingness to pay more for products with the Health Star Rating is currently limited by the lack of guarantee of the systems’ accuracy. Given consumer support, a well validated and comprehensive Health Star Rating labelling system can potentially improve health outcomes, cost effectiveness and reduce environmental impacts.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 17-11-2014
DOI: 10.1080/19440049.2014.973457
Abstract: Children's dietary exposure to metals has received limited attention in Australia. This study undertook a market basket survey and analysed 253 food and beverages for metals. These data were used in conjunction with recent average diet data for children in Western Australia to model dietary metals exposure, with mean metals intakes calculated for boys and girls aged 8, 12, 13 and 16 years. Results show that for some metals, including cadmium, nickel and manganese, dietary intake guidelines have been exceeded in younger children. The mean modelled cadmium intake in children aged 8 years was almost 60% of the World Health Organisation (WHO) guideline and exceeded the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) guideline. Nickel and manganese intake was higher in younger children than reported in international studies. Modelling based on the 95% percentile of dietary consumption exceeded the respective guidelines or upper level of intake for several of the metals studied. The findings from this study support the need for further investigation into the exposure of children to metals from diet and the health implications of exposure.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 11-05-2018
DOI: 10.3390/NU10050595
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 10-06-2019
Abstract: Large-scale food system practices have diminished soil and water quality and negatively impacted climate change. Yet, numerous opportunities exist to harness food system practices that will ensure better outcomes for human health and ecosystems. The objective of this study was to consider food Production, Processing, Access and Consumption domains, and for each determine the challenges and successes associated with progressing towards a sustainable food system. A workshop engaging 122 participants including producers, consultants, consumers, educators, funders, scientists, media, government and industry representatives, was conducted in Perth, Western Australia. A thematic analysis of statements (Successes (n = 170) or Challenges (n = 360)) captured, revealed issues of scale, knowledge and education, economics, consumerism, big food, environmental/sustainability, communication, policies and legislation, and technology and innovations. Policy recommendations included greater investment into research in sustainable agriculture (particularly the evidentiary basis for regenerative agriculture), land preservation, and supporting farmers to overcome high infrastructure costs and absorb labour costs. Policy, practice and research recommendations included focusing on an integrated food systems approach with multiple goals, food system actors working collaboratively to reduce challenges and undertaking more research to further the regenerative agriculture evidence.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 11-04-2019
DOI: 10.1002/HPJA.61
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 12-04-2019
DOI: 10.3390/NU11040828
Abstract: Dietary compromises related to food insecurity profoundly undermine health and constitute a serious public health issue, even in developed nations. The aim of this study was to explore the impact of food labelling and product attributes on the purchasing choices of food-insecure households in Australia. An online survey containing 19 food choice and 28 purchasing behaviours questions was completed by 1056 adults responsible for household grocery shopping. The short form of the US Household Food Security Survey Module was used as the food security indicator. Multinomial logistic regression modelling was employed to analyse the survey data. Respondents were classified as having either high-marginal (63.4%, n = 670), low (19.8%, n = 209) or very low (16.8%, n = 177) food security. Respondents with low or very low food security status were less likely to self-report understanding the information on the back of packaging (p 0.001), find information on food labels useful (p = 0.002) or be influenced by product nutrition information (p = 0.002). Convenience (p 0.001), organic (p = 0.027) and supermarket-branded products (p 0.001) were more likely to be rated as important by food-insecure respondents when compared to their food-secure counterparts. When asked to rate “how healthy” their diet was, high–marginal FS respondents were twice as likely describe their diet as healthy than very low FS respondents (p = 0.001).
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2017
Abstract: To explore how determinants of food security affect children in regional and remote Western Australia (WA), across food availability, access and utilisation dimensions. The Determinants of Food Security framework guided the thematic analysis (using NVivo 10) of semi-structured interviews with 20 key informants. Food availability factors included availability, price, promotion, quality, location of outlets and variety. Food access factors included social support, financial resources, transport to food outlets, distance to food outlets and mobility. Food utilisation factors included nutrition knowledge and skills, children's food preferences, storage facilities, preparation and cooking facilities and time to purchase food. Key food availability recommendations include increasing local food supply options. Food access recommendations include ensuring equitable formal social support and empowering informal support options. Food utilisation recommendations include prioritising food literacy programs focusing on quick, healthy food preparation and budgeting skills. Implications for public health: Policymakers should invest in local food supply options, equitable social support services and experiential food literacy programs. Practitioners should focus child arent programs on improving attitude, knowledge and skills.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2015
Abstract: Protein may play a role in preventing muscle loss with aging. To our knowledge, there have been no long-term randomized controlled trials to examine the effects of increased dietary protein intake on muscle health in community-dwelling older women. In this study, we evaluated the effects of whey protein supplementation on muscle mass and physical function in community-dwelling older Australian women. In this 2 y randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, women aged 70-80 y (mean 74.3 ± 2.7 y) were randomly assigned to either a high protein drink containing 30 g of whey protein (n = 109) or a placebo drink containing 2.1 g protein (n = 110) daily. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry appendicular skeletal muscle mass, upper arm and calf (38% tibia) muscle cross-sectional area, physical function including hand grip strength, lower limb muscle strength and Timed Up and Go test, and 24 h urinary nitrogen were measured at baseline, 1 y, and 2 y. A total of 196 women with at least one follow-up measurement were included in this analysis. Baseline mean BMI was 26.7 ± 3.9 kg/m(2) and protein intake was 76 ± 17 g/d (1.1 ± 0.3 g · kg body weight(-1) · d(-1)). A mean increase in protein intake of ∼ 20 g/d in the protein group was confirmed by the estimates from 24 h urinary nitrogen. Over the 2 y in both groups there was a significant decrease in the upper arm (mean ± SE: -5.59 ± 0.75 cm(2)) and calf (-0.77 ± 0.11 cm(2)) muscle area, as well as hand grip strength (-1.30 ± 0.3 kg) (all P 0.05) at 1 and 2 y. This study showed that in protein-replete, healthy, ambulant, postmenopausal older women, 30 g/d of extra protein did not improve the maintenance of muscle mass or physical function despite evidence of deterioration in muscle measurements in the upper limb. This trial was registered at the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry as ACTRN012607000163404.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.APPET.2010.01.019
Abstract: Satiety is important in regulating food intake and has important public health significance in the control of obesity. Food containing protein and non-starch polysaccharides provides a satiety effect through various mechanisms but a comparison of the satiety effect on each has not previously been investigated. This study compared the satiety effect or reduction of hunger after consumption of (i) a whey protein-based drink versus an alginate-based drink of the same viscosity where only the protein content differed, (ii) two alginate-based drinks differing in alginate type and viscosity, and (iii) a whey protein-based drink versus an alginate-based drink differing in protein content and viscosity. Fasted subjects assessed the effect of a drink on hunger that was one of three variants: a low viscosity whey protein drink (LVHP) a high viscosity low protein alginate-based drink (HVLP) or a low viscosity low protein alginate-based drink (LVLP) over the 240 min postprandial period using a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). When protein differed and viscosity was the same, results showed subjects felt significantly less hungry after consuming the LVHP drink compared to the LVLP drink, so protein reduced hunger. Subjects reported reduced hunger from the HVLP drink compared to the LVLP drink where viscosity of drinks differed, suggesting viscosity and/or gelation reduced hunger. Subjects reported reduced hunger from the HVLP drink compared to LVHP drink where both protein and viscosity differed, suggesting that viscosity reduced hunger more than the protein effect. Results suggest the physical characteristics such as viscosity and/or gel strength and protein content reduce hunger. Further studies should investigate which of these parameters is more important.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.NUMECD.2014.11.005
Abstract: Protein consumption has been associated with cardio-metabolic benefits, including weight loss and improved insulin sensitivity, and may have potential benefits for in iduals with fatty liver disease (FLD). We investigated the effect of increasing dietary protein intake from whey relative to carbohydrate on hepatic steatosis. A two-year randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 30 g/day whey protein-supplemented beverage (protein) or an energy-matched low-protein high-carbohydrate beverage (control) for cardio-metabolic and bone health in 219 healthy elderly women, recruited from the Western Australian general population. Hepatic steatosis was quantified using computed tomographic liver-to-spleen (L/S) ratio. FLD was defined as liver-to-spleen difference <10 Hounsfield units. At baseline, FLD prevalence was 11.4%. Control and protein groups were similar in body mass index (BMI), insulin resistance, L/S ratio and FLD prevalence at baseline. At two-years, dietary protein increased by 20 g in the protein, but not the control, group. Total energy intake and physical activity remained similar between groups. At two-years, BMI and FLD prevalence increased in both groups, with no between group differences. L/S ratio increased in control, but not protein, group at two-years, with no between group differences. In a within group comparison, change in BMI correlated with changes in L/S ratio in control (r = 0.37, P = 0.0007), but not with protein group (r = 0.04, P = 0.73). Increasing dietary protein intake from whey relative to carbohydrate does not reduce weight, hepatic steatosis or the prevalence of FLD in elderly women. However, it may prevent worsening of hepatic steatosis associated with weight gain. Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (Registration no. ACTRN012607000163404).
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 25-11-2020
DOI: 10.3390/NU12123628
Abstract: Understanding the relationship between fruit and vegetable knowledge (FVK) and fruit and vegetable intake (FVI) is an important consideration for improved public health and successful targeting of health promotion messaging. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between FVK and FVI in Australian adults and to identify subgroups most at risk of poor knowledge. Using data from the Australian Diabetes, Obesity, and Lifestyle Study (AusDiab), we investigated associations between FVK and FVI, as well as demographic and lifestyle factors. Baseline FVK was measured using two self-reported questions. FVI was assessed using a validated, self-reported, food frequency questionnaire in 1999/00 (baseline), 2004/05, and 2011/12. Amongst the 8966 participants assessed at baseline, 24.1% had adequate, 73.0% had insufficient, and 2.9% had poor FVK. Using linear regression, those with insufficient or poor FVK reported significantly lower FVI (grams/day) compared to those with adequate FVK: baseline (coefficient (95%CI)): −67.1 (−80.0, −54.3) and −124.0 (−142.9, −105.1), respectively, whilst, at 12 years, the differences were −42.5 (−54.6, −30.5) and −94.6 (−133.8, −55.5) grams/day, respectively (all p 0.001). Poor FVK was more likely to be reported in males, older in iduals ( years), socio-economically disadvantaged, smokers, and those with insufficient physical activity/sedentary behavior. We demonstrate that having adequate knowledge of FVI, defined as knowing to consume fruit and vegetables several times a day for a well-balanced diet, is strongly associated with FVI, with several demographic and lifestyle factors predicting FVK. Health promotion messages aimed at increasing FVK should target these subgroups for maximal effect.
Publisher: Springer London
Date: 27-04-2010
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-11-2021
DOI: 10.1002/HPJA.433
Abstract: The South West Food Community (SWFC) project (2018) was implemented to identify initiatives working to enhance healthy food availability, access and use in the South West region of Western Australia (SWWA) and enhance how they functioned as a system. The SWFC project participants included government and community members. This study aimed to understand how a tailored food security website could be developed as a support mechanism to increase understanding of food security, connect participants and enhance the effectiveness of SWFC initiatives. Initiative leaders from the SWFC project (n = 46) were invited to participate in semi-structured telephone interviews which sought to understand needs for a food security website. Fifteen stakeholders completed the interviews (32% response rate). Data relating to desirable and undesirable website components were analysed thematically using QSR NVivo 12. Participants requested the website to include concise content, food security resources, inviting/useful images and information about initiatives. Undesirable features included academic literature, difficult-to-use functions, discussion boards and hard-to-view images. A tailored, co-designed website that is monitored, user-friendly and functional were key stakeholder requirements. A tailored, co-designed food security website that promotes partnership development, builds networks, increases understanding and communication about food security and implementation strategies is needed.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 20-11-2013
DOI: 10.1017/S136898001300311X
Abstract: Due to rising rates of obesity globally, the present study aimed to examine differences in overweight and underweight prevalence in Western Australian schoolchildren in 2008 compared with 2003. Cross-sectional study at two time points using two-stage stratified s ling, primary and secondary schools in both metropolitan and non-metropolitan Western Australia s le selected was representative of the State's population figures. Seventeen primary and thirteen secondary (2008) and nineteen primary and seventeen secondary (2003) schools. Government and non-government funded schools in metropolitan and non-metropolitan (regional/rural) Western Australia were recruited. Height and weight were measured for 1708 (961 primary and 747 secondary) students in 2008 and 1694 (876 primary and 817 secondary) students in 2003. Overweight and obesity prevalence in primary students was similar in 2008 (22·9 %) to 2003 (23·2 % P 0·05). In secondary girls overweight and obesity prevalence dropped from 23·1 % (2003) to 15·9 % (2008 P = 0·002). Secondary boys showed a slight decrease in overweight and obesity prevalence however, this was not statistically significant ( P = 0·102). Higher proportions of underweight in primary girls were observed in 2008 (9·9 %) compared with 2003 (4·2 % P 0·001) and in secondary girls in 2008 (9·4 %) compared with 2003 (5·5 % P 0·001). Prevalence of overweight and obesity in Western Australian primary students was stable however, it declined in secondary students. Both primary and secondary girls showed an increase in underweight prevalence. Public health interventions are needed for the high percentage of youth still overweight, whereas the observed increase in underweight girls warrants attention and further investigation.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 20-03-2015
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 21-05-2015
DOI: 10.1002/JBMR.2546
Abstract: Lipocalin 2 (LCN2) or neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) is expressed in a wide range of cells and pathological states. Mounting evidence suggests lipocalin 2 may be an important regulator of bone homeostasis. Recently it has been suggested LCN2 is a novel mechanoresponsive gene central to the pathological response to low mechanical force. We undertook a prospective study of 1009 elderly women over 70 years of age to study the association between circulating LCN2 and potential associated variables, including estimated glomerular filtration rate, physical activity, and baseline measures of hip bone density and heel bone quality. Osteoporotic fractures requiring hospitalizations were identified from the Western Australian Data Linkage System. Over 14.5 years, 272 (27%) of women sustained an osteoporotic fracture-related hospitalization of these, 101 were hip fractures. Circulating LCN2 levels were correlated with body mass index and estimated glomerular filtration rate (r = 0.249, p < 0.001 and r = -0.481, p < 0.001, respectively) that modified the association with hip and heel bone measures. Per standard deviation increase in LCN2, there was a 30% multivariable-adjusted increase in the risk of any osteoporotic fracture (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.30, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.13-1.50, p < 0.001). In participants with elevated LCN2 levels above the median (76.6 ng/mL), there was an 80% to 81% increase in the risk of any osteoporotic or hip fracture (HR = 1.81, 95% CI 1.38-2.36, p < 0.001 and HR = 1.80, 95% CI 1.16-2.78, p = 0.008, respectively). These associations remained significant after adjustment for total hip bone mineral density (p < 0.05). In conclusion, we have demonstrated that circulating LCN2 levels predict future risk of osteoporotic fractures requiring hospitalization. Measurement of LCN2 levels may improve fracture prediction in addition to current fracture risk factors in the elderly, particularly in those with impaired renal function.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 13-03-2015
Publisher: Deakin University
Date: 10-12-2021
DOI: 10.21153/JTLGE2021VOL12NO2ART1481
Abstract: Employability skills can be categorised as ‘people’ or ‘soft skills’ and ‘technical’ or ‘industry specific’ skills. Australian employers are increasingly seeking to employ university graduates with well-developed people skills. Evidence from industry suggests these skills, in particular communication skills are lacking in today’s graduates. The aim of this study was to raise student awareness of the importance of people skills, assess their perception of personal competence across a range of these skills and support them to develop plans that will help them strengthen these skills in preparation for graduation. An online survey was emailed to 222 first year undergraduate students 99 were completed. Analysis of quantitative data revealed students perceived themselves to be highly competent across a range of people skills. However, qualitative data found students also identified people skills that they needed to develop further. The study findings suggest that first-year students may have inflated and unrealistic perceptions of their people skills and highlights the importance of the introduction of these employability skills early in the curriculum. Recommendations from this study include the introduction of curriculum activities in the first year of their degree that raise student awareness of industry expectations of people skills upon graduation. The implementation of a people skills self-assessment tool for these students is also recommended as a benchmarking activity. Use of this tool can motivate students to engage with university support and industry opportunities that further strengthen these important skills.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2007
DOI: 10.1016/J.BONE.2006.06.022
Abstract: Bone mass is the single most important risk factor for osteoporotic fractures in the elderly and is mainly influenced by genetic factors accounting for 40-75% of the inter-in idual variation. Critical for the bone remodeling process is the balance between the newly discovered members of the tumor necrosis factor ligand and receptor superfamilies, osteoprotegerin (OPG) and receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappaB ligand, which mediate the effects of many upstream regulators of bone metabolism. In the present study, we evaluated the impact of sequence variations in the OPG gene on bone mass, bone-related biochemistry including serum OPG and fracture frequency in elderly Australian women. A total of 1101 women were genotyped for 3 different single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) within the OPG gene (G1181C, T950C and A163G). The effects of these SNPs and serum OPG on calcaneal quantitative ultrasound measurements, osteodensitometry of the hip and bone-related biochemistry were examined. We found no significant relationship between sequence variations in the OPG gene or serum OPG and bone mass, bone-related biochemistry or fracture frequency. Our findings confirm some recent publications investigating the same SNPs but erge from others, indicating that generalization of the relationships found in this type of study must be done with caution and signify the importance of determining associations between polymorphisms and osteoporosis in different ethnic groups.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 30-05-2023
DOI: 10.1111/JOSH.13351
Abstract: Obesity‐driven nutrition education in schools does not appear to result in healthier adolescent food choices. This study explored food systems as an alternative pedagogical approach to engage students in nutrition education. After playing a food systems computer game, 250 13‐ to 16‐year‐old students in 5 Western Australian secondary schools, participated in group discussions to distinguish learning and interests in food systems. Discussion records were thematically coded using constant comparative analysis. Students reported crop growth, food production and food waste, healthier food choices, and food systems as knowledge outcomes of game play. They requested additional content on food production, costing, handling, processing, and accessing local produce. Experiential activities were preferred pedagogical approaches. Cross‐curricular pedagogy which embraces human and planetary health through a food systems lens, can engage adolescents in nutrition education. Transformational computer games are effective to engage, educate and stimulate inquiry in food systems education.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 27-11-2008
DOI: 10.1007/S00198-008-0804-Y
Abstract: Few studies have evaluated the effects of homocysteine and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) genotype on age-related bone loss. In our 5-year cohort study with 1,213 women aged 70-85 years, high homocysteine is associated with greater hip bone loss but not fracture risk. The effect of MTHFR genotype on bone density and fracture is weak. Previous studies on the effects of homocysteine and MTHFR genotype on bone mineral density (BMD) and osteoporotic fracture risk have shown inconsistent results. Few studies have evaluated their effects on age-related bone loss. We evaluated the effects of homocysteine and MTHFR genotype variation on hip BMD and fracture risk over 5 years in a cohort of 1,213 community-dwelling women aged 70-85 years. Nutritional intake and prevalent fracture status were assessed at baseline, plasma homocysteine was measured at year 1, and hip dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) BMD was measured at years 1 and 5. Clinical incident osteoporotic fractures confirmed by radiographic report were collected throughout the study and the MTHFR gene C677T and A1298C polymorphisms genotyped. Data were analyzed using analysis of covariance and Cox proportional hazard regression. The highest tertile of homocysteine was associated with a greater hip BMD loss over 4 years (-2.8%) compared to the middle (-1.6%) and lowest tertiles (-1.2%) (P < 0.001). This effect remained after adjustment for covariates. There was no effect of homocysteine on fracture prevalence or incidence. MTHFR gene variation was only weakly related to one of the bone outcome measures. In this study population, high homocysteine is associated with greater hip bone loss but not fracture risk.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 19-12-2019
DOI: 10.3390/NU12010016
Abstract: The consortium of trillions of microorganisms that live inside the human gut are integral to health. Little has been done to collate and characterize the microbiome of children. A systematic review was undertaken to address this gap (PROSPERO ID: CRD42018109599). MEDLINE and EMBASE were searched using the keywords: “healthy preadolescent children” and “gut microbiome” to 31 August 2018. Of the 815 journal articles, 42 met the inclusion criteria. The primary outcome was the relative abundance of bacteria at the phylum, family, and genus taxonomic ranks. α- ersity, short chain fatty acid concentrations, diet, 16S rRNA sequencing region, and geographical location were documented. The preadolescent gut microbiome is dominated at the phylum level by Firmicutes (weighted overall average relative abundance = 51.1%) and Bacteroidetes (36.0%) genus level by Bacteroides (16.0%), Prevotella (8.69%), Faecalibacterium (7.51%), and Bifidobacterium (5.47%). Geographic location and 16S rRNA sequencing region were independently associated with microbial proportions. There was limited consensus between studies that reported α- ersity and short chain fatty acids. Broadly speaking, participants from non-Western locations, who were less likely to follow a Westernized dietary pattern, had higher α- ersity and SCFA concentrations. Confirmatory studies will increase the understanding of the composition and functional capacity of the preadolescent gut microbiome.
Publisher: American Medical Association (AMA)
Date: 24-04-2006
DOI: 10.1001/ARCHINTE.166.8.869
Abstract: Increased dietary calcium intake has been proposed as a population-based public health intervention to prevent osteoporotic fractures. We have examined whether calcium supplementation decreases clinical fracture risk in elderly women and its mechanism of action. Five-year, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 1460 women recruited from the population and older than 70 years (mean age, 75 years) who were randomized to receive calcium carbonate, 600 mg twice per day, or identical placebo. The primary end points included clinical incident osteoporotic fractures, vertebral deformity, and adverse events ascertained in 5 years. Bone structure was also measured using dual x-ray absorptiometry of the hip and whole body, quantitative ultrasonography of the heel, and peripheral quantitative computed tomography of the distal radius. Among our patients, 16.1% sustained 1 or more clinical osteoporotic fractures. In the intention-to-treat analysis, calcium supplementation did not significantly reduce fracture risk (hazard ratio, 0.87 95% confidence interval, 0.67-1.12). However, 830 patients (56.8%) who took 80% or more of their tablets (calcium or placebo) per year had reduced fracture incidence in the calcium compared with the placebo groups (10.2% vs 15.4% hazard ratio, 0.66 95% confidence interval, 0.45-0.97). Calcium-treated patients had improved quantitative ultrasonography findings of the heel, femoral neck and whole-body dual x-ray absorptiometry data, and bone strength compared with placebo-treated patients. Of the 92 000 adverse events recorded, constipation was the only event increased by the treatment (calcium group, 13.4% placebo group, 9.1%). Supplementation with calcium carbonate tablets supplying 1200 mg/d is ineffective as a public health intervention in preventing clinical fractures in the ambulatory elderly population owing to poor long-term compliance, but it is effective in those patients who are compliant.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2016
DOI: 10.1007/S12603-016-0669-2
Abstract: Evaluate a 4-week dementia specific nutrition education intervention to determine long term knowledge and healthy dietary behaviour changes in 72 elderly men and women. A mixed method design used qualitative findings to triangulate quantitative within-subject changes to determine efficacy and sustained dietary behaviour change. Community. 72 independently-living in iduals. 4-week dementia specific nutrition education intervention. Change in participant attitude, confidence, dietary patterns, cooking behaviour, and knowledge were analysed within-subjects using non-parametric repeated-measures procedures. Significance level was set at 5% (α = 0.05). Effect size (ES) was reported and identified as small (S), medium (M) or large (L) if a significant change was observed. Compared to before the nutrition education intervention participants had an increase in total knowledge (p < 0.001, ES = 0.972 (L)), consumed a greater variety of vegetables (p = 0.007, ES = 0.35 (M)), used less salt (p = 0.006, ES = -0.42 (M-L)) and increased spice use (p < 0.001, ES = 0.40 (M-L)). Participants overcame barriers to enable sustained change, held a positive view on healthy living and believed government should invest in this sector of the community. Sharing and socialisation emerged as important themes that increased program satisfaction. The dementia specific nutrition program produced a large effect in knowledge improvement from pre to post, which was retained at follow up, consolidated observational and participatory learning which produced a moderate increase in healthy dietary behaviours which participants valued and sustained.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-05-2017
Abstract: Nitrate from vegetables improves vascular health with short-term intake. Whether this translates into improved long-term health outcomes has yet to be investigated. To enable reliable analysis of nitrate intake from food records, there is a strong need for a comprehensive nitrate content of vegetables database. A systematic literature search (1980-2016) was performed using Medline, Agricola and Commonwealth Agricultural Bureaux abstracts databases. The nitrate content of vegetables database contains 4237 records from 255 publications with data on 178 vegetables and 22 herbs and spices. The nitrate content of in idual vegetables ranged from Chinese flat cabbage (median range: 4240 3004-6310 mg/kg FW) to corn (median range: 12 5-1091 mg/kg FW). The database was applied to estimate vegetable nitrate intake using 24-h dietary recalls (24-HDRs) and food frequency questionnaires (FFQs). Significant correlations were observed between urinary nitrate excretion and 24-HDR (r = 0.4, P = 0.013), between 24-HDR and 12 month FFQs (r = 0.5, P < 0.001) as well as two 4 week FFQs administered 8 weeks apart (r = 0.86, P < 0.001). This comprehensive nitrate database allows quantification of dietary nitrate from a large variety of vegetables. It can be applied to dietary records to explore the associations between nitrate intake and health outcomes in human studies.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 23-06-2021
DOI: 10.3390/NU13072159
Abstract: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common functional gastrointestinal disorder affecting 4–5% of the global population. This disorder is associated with gut microbiota, diet, sleep, and mental health. This scoping review therefore aims to map existing research that has administrated fibre-related dietary intervention to IBS in iduals and reported outcomes on at least two of the three following themes: gut microbiota, sleep, and mental health. Five digital databases were searched to identify and select papers as per the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Five articles were included in the assessment, where none reported on all three themes or the combination of gut microbiota and sleep. Two studies identified alterations in gut microbiota and mental health with fibre supplementation. The other three studies reported on mental health and sleep outcomes using subjective questionnaires. IBS-related research lacks system biology-type studies targeting gut microbiota, sleep, and mental health in patients undergoing diet intervention. Further IBS research is required to explore how human gut microbiota functions (such as short-chain fatty acids) in sleep and mental health, following the implementation of dietary pattern alteration or component supplementation. Additionally, the application of objective sleep assessments is required in order to detect sleep change with more accuracy and less bias.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 04-12-2023
DOI: 10.1002/HPJA.682
Abstract: Locating fast‐food outlets near schools is a potential public health risk to schoolchildren, given the easy access and repeated exposure to energy‐dense, nutrient‐poor foods they provide. Fast‐food outlet availability near schools has not been previously investigated in Perth, Western Australia. This study aimed to quantify fast‐food outlet availability near Perth schools and determine whether differences in area‐level disadvantage and school type exist. Fast‐food outlet locations were sourced from Perth Local Governments in 2018/2019. All Perth Primary (n = 454), Secondary (n = 107) and K‐12 (n = 94) schools were assigned an area‐level disadvantage decile ranking based on the Australian Bureau of Statistics Socio‐Economic Index for Areas (SEIFA). Regression models assessed whether fast‐food outlet availability within 400 m, 800 m and 1 km of schools differed by school type (ie, Primary/Secondary/K‐12) or SEIFA. Secondary schools were significantly more likely than Primary and K‐12 schools to have a higher presence and density of fast‐food outlets and the “Top 4” fast‐food outlet chains (McDonalds, Hungry Jacks, KFC and Red Rooster) nearby. Schools located in low socio‐economic status (SES) areas had a significantly higher density of fast‐food outlets within 400 m, and “Top 4” fast‐food outlet chains within 400 m and 1 km, than schools located in high SES area. Perth schools are surrounded by fast‐food outlets with densities significantly higher around secondary schools and schools located in lower SES areas. Policies and regulations aimed at reducing fast‐food outlets near schools is an essential strategy to improve dietary intakes and reduce obesity in schoolchildren.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 24-11-2008
DOI: 10.1007/S00198-007-0517-7
Abstract: The 1p36 region of the human genome has been identified as containing a QTL for BMD in multiple studies. We analysed the TNFRSF1B gene from this region, which encodes the TNF receptor 2, in two large population-based cohorts. Our results suggest that variation in TNFRSF1B is associated with BMD. The TNFRSF1B gene, encoding the TNF receptor 2, is a strong positional and functional candidate gene for impaired bone structure through the role that TNF has in bone cells. The aims of this study were to evaluate the role of variations in the TNFRSF1B gene on bone structure and osteoporotic fracture risk in postmenopausal women. Six SNPs in TNFRSF1B were analysed in a cohort of 1,190 postmenopausal Australian women, three of which were also genotyped in an independent cohort of 811 UK postmenopausal women. Differences in phenotypic means for genotype groups were examined using one-way ANOVA and ANCOVA. Significant associations were seen for IVS1+5580A>G with BMD and QUS parameters in the Australian population (P = 0.008 - 0.034) and with hip BMD parameters in the UK population (P = 0.005 - 0.029). Significant associations were also observed between IVS1+6528G>A and hip BMD parameters in the UK cohort (P = 0.0002 - 0.003). We then combined the data from the two cohorts and observed significant associations between both IVS1+5580A>G and IVS1+6528G>A and hip BMD parameters (P = 0.002 - 0.033). Genetic variation in TNFRSF1B plays a role in the determination of bone structure in Caucasian postmenopausal women, possibly through effects on osteoblast and osteoclast differentiation.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 02-2004
DOI: 10.1079/BJN20031046
Abstract: Tea and coffee are rich in polyphenols with a variety of biological activities. Many of the demonstrated activities are consistent with favourable effects on the risk of chronic diseases. 4- O -methylgallic acid (4OMGA) and isoferulic acid are potential biomarkers of exposure to polyphenols derived from tea and coffee respectively. 4OMGA is derived from gallic acid in tea, and isoferulic acid is derived from chlorogenic acid in coffee. Our major objective was to explore the relationships of tea and coffee intake with 24 h urinary excretion of 4OMGA and isoferulic acid in human subjects. The relationships of long-term usual (111 participants) and contemporaneously recorded current (344 participants) tea and coffee intake with 24 h urinary excretion of 4OMGA and isoferulic acid were assessed in two populations. 4OMGA was related to usual ( r 0·50, P ·001) and current ( r 0·57, P ·001) tea intake, and isoferulic acid was related to usual ( r 0·26, P =0·008) and current ( r 0·18, P ·001) coffee intake. Overall, our present results are consistent with the proposal that 4OMGA is a good biomarker for black tea-derived polyphenol exposure, but isoferulic acid may be of limited usefulness as a biomarker for coffee-derived polyphenol exposure.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 20-12-2019
Abstract: Fresh fruits and vegetables are a cornerstone of a balanced diet their consumption has health, environmental, ethical, and economic implications. This pilot study aimed to: (i) measure fruit and vegetable consumption (ii) understand consumer perceptions of the perceived importance of regionally grown fresh fruit and vegetables (RGFFV) and (iii) identify the barriers and enablers of access and consumption of RGFFV. The study took place in Tasmania (TAS) and South Western Australia (SWA). A 54-item survey included questions relating to purchasing and consumption patterns barriers and enablers related to access and consumption of RGFFV and sociodemographic information. Survey data were analyzed using Chi-square test and binary logistic regression. A total of n = 120 TAS and n = 123 SWA adult respondents participated. SWA respondents had higher intakes of fruit (p 0.001) and vegetables (p 0.001). Almost all respondents (97%) rated purchasing of RGFFV as important. Top enablers included produce freshness (97%), and to financially support local farmers (94%) and the local community (91%). Barriers included limited seasonal availability of the produce (26%), the belief that RGFFV were expensive (12%) and food budgetary constraints (10%). Recommendations include broader marketing and labelling of seasonal RGFFV increasing ‘buy local’ c aigns consumer information about how RGFFV benefits producers and communities and pricing produce according to quality.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2015
Abstract: The reduction of saturated fatty acid (SFA) intake has been the basis of long-standing dietary recommendations. However, recent epidemiologic studies have reported conflicting evidence in the relation between SFA consumption and risk of atherosclerotic vascular disease (ASVD) mortality. We investigated the association of SFA intake with serum lipid profiles and ASVD mortality in a population-based 10-y cohort study. At baseline (1998) 1469 women living in Perth, Western Australia, with a mean ± SD age of 75.2 ± 2.7 y had SFA intake measured by using a validated food-frequency questionnaire. Outcome data were serum lipids at baseline and ASVD deaths over 10 y (13,649 person-years of follow-up), retrieved from the Western Australian Data Linkage System. Other risk factors for ASVD were assessed and adjusted for in multivariable analyses. ASVD deaths occurred in 9.1% (134) of participants. The highest quartile of SFA intake (>31.28 g/d) had an ~16% cumulative mortality risk compared with ~5% in the lowest quartile (<17.39 g/d) (HR: 3.07 95% CI: 1.54, 6.11 P = 0.001). Baseline SFA intake was associated with baseline serum total and LDL cholesterol in multivariable-adjusted models (β: 0.199, SE: 0.056, P < 0.001 and β: 0.190, SE: 0.051, P < 0.001, respectively). However, baseline serum total and LDL cholesterol were not associated with ASVD mortality. High SFA intake was associated with the risk of ASVD mortality in this population of elderly women. Although there was a strong positive association between SFA intake and LDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol was not associated with ASVD mortality in this cohort. Nevertheless, these data support dietary advice to reduce SFA intake.
Publisher: Springer New York
Date: 1998
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 09-08-2018
DOI: 10.3390/NU10081059
Abstract: Food insecurity is considered a “wicked” problem due to the highly complex and at times undefined casual factors. Although many stakeholders are working to address the problem, a possible ergence exists between their views on food insecurity and those of the people who are actually experiencing the problem. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether there was a difference between the opinions of those “at risk” and stakeholders. A total of seven focus groups (two stakeholder groups n = 10, five “at-risk” groups n = 34) and three interviews (stakeholders n = 3) were conducted to ascertain perceptions. Thematic analysis generated 329 (209 “at-risk” and 120 stakeholder) coded statements related to food insecurity drivers. Respondents were in agreement for the majority of factors, and limited income was considered the primary driver of food insecurity. However, there were notable deviations in the perceived importance of certain drivers, particularly around the price of food and the lack of food literacy. Differences in the perception of causes of food insecurity may in part be attributed to the varied role each group plays in working towards the resolution of the problem, either at the household or system level.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 04-2019
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2018-024872
Abstract: A potential link exists between prostate cancer (PCa) disease and treatment and increased inflammatory levels from gut dysbiosis. This study aims to examine if exercise favourably alters gut microbiota in men receiving androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) for PCa. Specifically, this study will explore whether: (1) exercise improves the composition of gut microbiota and increases the abundance of bacteria associated with health promotion and (2) whether gut health correlates with favourable inflammatory status, bowel function, continence and nausea among patients participating in the exercise intervention. A single-blinded, two-armed, randomised controlled trial will explore the influence of a 3-month exercise programme (3 days/week) for men with high-risk localised PCa receiving ADT. Sixty patients will be randomly assigned to either exercise intervention or usual care. The primary endpoint (gut health and function assessed via feacal s les) and secondary endpoints (self-reported quality of life via standardised questionnaires, blood biomarkers, body composition and physical fitness) will be measured at baseline and following the intervention. A variety of statistical methods will be used to understand the covariance between microbial ersity and metabolomics profile across time and intervention. An intention-to-treat approach will be utilised for the analyses with multiple imputations followed by a secondary sensitivity analysis to ensure data robustness using a complete cases approach. Ethics approval was obtained from the Human Research Ethics Committee of Edith Cowan University (ID: 19827 NEWTON). Findings will be reported in peer-reviewed publications and scientific conferences in addition to working with national support groups to translate findings for the broader community. If exercise is shown to result in favourable changes in gut microbial ersity, composition and metabolic profile, and reduce gastrointestinal complications in PCa patients receiving ADT, this study will form the basis of a future phase III trial. ANZCTR12618000280202.
Publisher: American Physiological Society
Date: 02-2005
DOI: 10.1152/AJPENDO.00140.2004
Abstract: High postmenopausal endogenous estrogen concentrations are an important determinant of preservation of bone mass and reduced fracture in elderly women. Calcium supplementation can also reduce bone loss in these patients, suggesting an interaction between estrogen deficiency and calcium balance. Potential mechanisms of estrogen on calcium transport include direct effects on the bone, the kidney, and the bowel. Previous studies have demonstrated effects of estrogen on renal phosphate handling. We have used a cross-sectional, population-based analysis of biochemical data obtained from ambulant elderly women to determine the association of endogenous estradiol with urine calcium and phosphorus excretion. The subjects were 293 postmenopausal women yr old. Factors associated with renal calcium and phosphate excretion were measured, including the filtered calcium and phosphate load, parathyroid hormone (PTH), estradiol, and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG). The free estradiol concentration (FE) was calculated from a previously described formula. A high plasma estradiol concentration ( r 2 = 0.023, P = 0.01) and a high FE ( r 2 = 0.045, P = 0.001) were associated with reduced renal calcium excretion. The estradiol and FE effect on renal calcium excretion remained significant after adjusting for calcium filtered at the glomerulus and serum PTH. A high FE was associated with a reduced renal phosphate threshold in univariate analysis ( r 2 = 0.023, P = 0.010). The effect remained significant after adjustment for serum PTH. The size of the effect of the FE was of the same order of magnitude as the effect of PTH on reducing renal calcium excretion and increasing renal phosphate excretion. These data support in vitro and animal data demonstrating an effect of estradiol on renal calcium and phosphate handling and indicate that, in elderly postmenopausal women, the effect is of a similar magnitude to the well-recognized effects of PTH on these physiologically regulated parameters.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 15-09-2004
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 09-10-2010
DOI: 10.1017/S1041610209991190
Abstract: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the major form of age-related dementia worldwide, accounting for more than two-thirds of all dementia cases. The disease is characterized by a progressive loss of cognitive and intellectual functioning (Gilman, 1997). A number of risk factors for AD have been identified. The prevalence of AD increases with age, diabetes, depression, family history of Parkinson's disease and following head injury or exposure to solvents (Jorm et al ., 1991 van Duijn et al ., 1991 Ott et al ., 1995 Yoshitake et al ., 1995 Devanand et al ., 1996). Published research further suggests that low education levels are associated with increased prevalence of clinical AD (Gatz et al ., 2001 Qiu et al ., 2001 Ravaglia et al ., 2002). Women also have a higher risk for developing the disease than men, with the risk being markedly increased following menopause (Sherwin, 2002 Sherwin 2003). Additionally, slightly more severe cognitive deficits have been reported in AD in women compared to men (Buckwalter et al ., 1993, Henderson and Buckwalter, 1994). These epidemiological trends may be a consequence of reproductive hormonal changes. Specifically, menopause results in a marked diminution in gonadal estrogen production in women (see Sherwin, 2003, for a review). Estrogen plays a pivotal role in the maintenance and function of neuronal circuits in the brain and in resistance to neuronal damage (McEwen, 2001). The neuroprotective properties of estrogen are thought to be mediated at least in part by anti-amyloidogenic, anti-oxidative and ant-inflammatory mechanisms (reviewed in Barron et al ., 2006a). However, limited and somewhat mixed data exist regarding the association between endogenous levels of estrogen and cognitive decline (Manly et al ., 2000 Schupf et al ., 2003). Based on some of our own findings, we here consider the factors that may be useful in predicting memory decline as a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease in older post-menopausal women.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 30-03-2022
Abstract: This study aimed to explore how food supply chains were impacted by COVID-19 and identify how the region could be better prepared for future crises. An online survey was completed by 107 consumers. In-depth interviews were conducted with 27 food supply stakeholders working in food production, distribution, retail, hospitality, institutions (i.e., childcare), logistics/freight and local government. Pre-COVID-19, farmer-direct distribution options and hospitality businesses comprised a substantial proportion of local food producer businesses. During the COVID-19 pandemic, consumers favoured local food supply options, farmers collaborated, and produce usually destined for export was redirected into local markets. Critical food supply actions included keeping borders open to food freight, enhancing social capital through real-time business communication, and business flexibility. Solutions included business adaptation, for ex le, farmers selling produce boxes and hospitality businesses selling excess stock, COVID-safe delivery, and collaboration through digital networks. To better prepare the region for future crises, actions to support communities could include a community approach to agriculture, increasing food supply ersity, facilitating transport to aid food distribution and purchasing, and more effective messaging to discourage panic buying. Actions to support retailers could include increasing access to wholesalers through online platforms. Actions to support producers could include improving infrastructure, such as more regional distribution facilities.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 24-04-2021
DOI: 10.3390/NU13051447
Abstract: Increasing prevalence of mental health disorders within the Australian population is a serious public health issue. Adequate intake of fruits and vegetables (FV), dietary fibre (DF) and resistant starch (RS) is associated with better mental and physical health. Few longitudinal studies exist exploring the temporal relationship. Using a validated food frequency questionnaire, we examined baseline FV intakes of 5845 Australian adults from the AusDiab study and estimated food group-derived DF and RS using data from the literature. Perceived mental health was assessed at baseline and 5 year follow up using SF-36 mental component summary scores (MCS). We conducted baseline cross-sectional analysis and prospective analysis of baseline dietary intake with perceived mental health at 5 years. Higher baseline FV and FV-derived DF and RS intakes were associated with better 5 year MCS (p 0.001). A higher FV intake (754 g/d vs. 251 g/d, Q4 vs. Q1) at baseline had 41% lower odds (OR = 0.59: 95% CI 0.46–0.75) of MCS below population average ( ) at 5 year follow up. Findings were similar for FV-derived DF and RS. An inverse association was observed with discretionary food-derived DF and RS. This demonstrates the association between higher intakes of FV and FV-derived DF and RS with better 5 year mental health outcomes. Further RCTs are necessary to understand mechanisms that underlie this association including elucidation of causal effects.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 06-2017
Abstract: THE PROVISION OF A nutritious diet early in life can have an immense effect on future health and wellbeing. The number of children attending child care is increasing, thus this setting is strategically placed to establish positive eating habits. This qualitative study sought to understand the needs of Australian early childhood education and care staff in relation to the provision of a healthy eating environment. Key stakeholders formed a consultancy group to provide feedback and advice. The study was underpinned by the Spiral Action Research model. Analysis of 48 in-depth interviews identified the following themes: healthy eating activities, resources, nutrition training, attitudes towards healthy eating and the proposed intervention, and barriers to healthy eating. Participants were open to using an online repository of nutrition resources and information wrapped in support. This formative data informed the development of a ‘best practice’ website including discussion boards intended to foster an online ‘community of practice’.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-2007
DOI: 10.1359/JBMR.061115
Abstract: A population-based study on 1008 postmenopausal women identified that the 24% of women achieving high levels of PA and CI had 3.4-4.4% higher femoral bone strength in axial compression and 1.7-5.2% in bending than those achieving low levels, indicating that lifestyle factors influence bone strength in the proximal femur. Extensive research has shown that increased physical activity (PA) and calcium intake (CI) decrease the rate of bone loss however, there is little research on how these lifestyle variables affect bone geometry. This study was designed to investigate the effects of modifiable lifestyle variables, habitual PA and dietary CI, on femoral geometry in older women. Femoral geometry, habitual PA, and dietary CI were measured in a population-based s le of 1008 women (median age+/-interquartile range, 75+/-4years) enrolled in a randomized controlled trial (RCT) of calcium supplementation. Baseline PA and CI were assessed by validated questionnaires, and 1-year DXA scans (Hologic 4500A) were analyzed using the hip structural analysis technique. Section modulus (Z), an index of bending strength, cross-sectional area (CSA), an index of axial compression strength, subperiosteal width (SPW), and centroid position, the position of the center of mass, were measured at the femoral neck (NN), intertrochanter (IT), and femoral shaft (FS) sites. These data were ided into tertiles of PA and CI, and the results were compared using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), with corrections for age, height, weight, and treatment (calcium lacebo). PA showed a significant dose-response effect on CSA all hip sites (p<0.03) and Z at the narrow neck and intertrochanter sites (p<0.02). For CI, there was a dose-response effect for centroid position at the intertrochanter (p=0.03). These effects were additive, such that the women (n=240) with PA in excess of 65.5 kcal/day and CI in excess of 1039 mg/day had significantly greater CSA (NN, 4.4% IT, 4.3% FS, 3.4%) and Z (NN, 3.9% IT, 5.2%). These data show a favorable association between PA and aspects of bone structural geometry consistent with better bone strength. Association between CI and bone structure was only evident in 1 of 15 variables tested. However, there was evidence that there may be additive effects, whereby women with high levels of PA and CI in excess of 1039 mg/day had significantly greater CSA (NN, 0.4% FS, 2.1%) and Z (IT, 3.0%) than women with high PA but low CI. These data show that current public health guidelines for PA and dietary CI are not inappropriate where bone structure is the health component of interest.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 19-08-2011
DOI: 10.1002/JBMR.429
Abstract: The effects of dietary protein on bone structure and metabolism have been controversial, with evidence for and against beneficial effects. Because no long-term randomized, controlled studies have been performed, a two-year study of protein supplementation in 219 healthy ambulant women aged 70 to 80 years was undertaken. Participants were randomized to either a high-protein drink containing 30 g of whey protein (n = 109) or a placebo drink identical in energy content, appearance, and taste containing 2.1 g of protein (n = 110). Both drinks provided 600 mg of calcium. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometric (DXA) hip areal bone mineral density (aBMD), 24-hour urinary calcium excretion, and serum insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) were measured at baseline and at 1 and 2 years. Quantitative computed tomographic (QCT) hip volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD) and a femoral neck engineering strength analysis were undertaken at baseline and at 2 years. Baseline average protein intake was 1.1 g/kg of body weight per day. There was a significant decrease in hip DXA aBMD and QCT vBMD over 2 years with no between-group differences. Femoral neck strength was unchanged in either group over time. The 24-hour urinary calcium excretion increased significantly from baseline in both groups at 1 year but returned to baseline in the placebo group at 2 years, at which time the protein group had a marginally higher value. Compared with the placebo group, the protein group had significantly higher serum IGF-1 level at 1 and 2 years (7.3% to 8.0%, p < .05). Our study showed that in protein-replete healthy ambulant women, 30 g of extra protein increased IGF-1 but did not have beneficial or deleterious effects on bone mass or strength. The effect of protein supplementation in populations with low dietary protein intake requires urgent attention.
Publisher: Research Square Platform LLC
Date: 30-04-2021
DOI: 10.21203/RS.3.RS-442718/V1
Abstract: Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the Australian food supply through changed consumer purchasing patterns, and potentially, household food security. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of COVID-19 on the prevalence of food insecurity and food supply issues, and perspectives of food supply stakeholders in regional Australia. Methods: A mixed-methods consumer survey and in-depth interviews with food supply stakeholders were conducted in South West Western Australia between May and July 2020, immediately after the 1 st wave of the pandemicResults: The prevalence of food insecurity was 21%, and significantly more prevalent for those aged less than 30 years and living with a disability. Most consumers (73%) agreed that the COVID-19 pandemic had impacted the food supply. Food insecure respondents were more likely to report that food was more expensive, resulting in changes to the types and quantities of food bought. Food supply stakeholders perceived that consumers increased their intention to buying locally grown produce. Panic buying temporarily reduced the availability of food for both consumers and food suppliers.Conclusions: Further government support at a local, regional, and national level is necessary to support households at risk of food insecurity and to bolster regional food systems to support equitable access to food.
Publisher: Springer New York
Date: 1998
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 14-05-2019
DOI: 10.3390/NU11051066
Abstract: Food insecurity is a complex ‘wicked’ problem that results from a range of unstable and uncertain physical, social, cultural, and economic factors that limit access to nutritious food [...]
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 05-1993
DOI: 10.1007/BF00310199
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 31-03-2020
DOI: 10.3390/NU12040968
Abstract: Early childhood education and care services are a significant feature of Australian family life, where nearly 1.4 million children attended a service in 2019. This paper reports on the cost of food provided to children in long day-care (LDC) services and extrapolates expenditure recommendations to support food provision compliance. A cross-sectional audit of LDC services in metropolitan Perth was conducted to determine food group provision by weighing raw ingredients of meal preparation—morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea (MT, L, AT). Ingredients were costed at 2017 online metropolitan pricing from a large supermarket chain. Across participating services, 2 days of food expenditure per child/day ranged between $1.17 and $4.03 across MT, L, AT, and averaged $2.00 per child/day. Multivariable analysis suggests that an increase of $0.50 per child/day increases the odds of a LDC service meeting % of Australian Dietary Guideline (ADG) recommendations across ≥4 core food groups by fourfold (p = 0.03). Given the fact that the literature regarding food expenditure at LDC services is limited, this study provides information about food expenditure variation that impacts planning and provision of nutritionally balanced menus recommended for children. An average increase of food expenditure of $0.50 per child/day would increase food provision compliance.
Publisher: Scientific Societies
Date: 03-2016
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2017
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 08-2007
Publisher: American Medical Association (AMA)
Date: 10-10-2011
DOI: 10.1001/ARCHINTERNMED.2011.434
Abstract: Two major factors associated with skeletal fracture in older persons are intrinsic bone strength and risk of falling. This study examined the role of Timed Up and Go (TUG) test performance, a validated predictor of falling, and hip areal bone mineral density (BMD), a validated predictor of bone strength in fracture prediction in a 10-year longitudinal study. The study participants were 1126 women (mean [SD] age at baseline, 75.0 [2.6] years) living in Perth, Western Australia. Assessments included TUG test at baseline and dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry total hip areal BMD measurement at year 1. Incident clinical osteoporotic fracture over 10 years was confirmed by radiographic records. Complete incident hip fracture data were obtained from a hospital morbidity database. One-third (32.7%) of participants had slow TUG test performance (>10.2 seconds), and 54.2% of participants had low hip areal BMD (T-score of less than -1). Relative to risks among participants having normal TUG test performance and normal BMD, risks of nonvertebral fracture and hip fracture were significantly higher among participants who had slow TUG test performance and normal hip BMD (nonvertebral fracture hazard ratio [HR], 1.84 hip fracture HR, 2.48) or both slow TUG test performance and low hip BMD (nonvertebral fracture HR, 2.51 hip fracture HR, 4.68). For nonvertebral fracture and hip fracture, the population-attributable risks of slow TUG test performance with normal hip BMD were 19.3% and 32.3%, of normal TUG test performance with low hip BMD were 31.3% and 50.3%, and of both slow TUG test performance and low hip BMD were 30.1% and 55.9%, respectively. TUG test performance is an independent risk factor for incident nonvertebral fracture and a feasible inexpensive physical performance assessment for use in clinical practice to screen patients with increased risk of fracture.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 20-10-2021
DOI: 10.1002/HPJA.427
Abstract: Vulnerable populations are disproportionately affected by food insecurity, resulting in heightened risk of suboptimal dietary intake. Food insecure people appear to implement several coping strategies and dietary compromises to avoid hunger. Less explored in the literature is how these strategies impact consumption of food inside and outside of the home. An online survey was completed by adults (n = 1292) residing in one of five Australian states. The questionnaire comprised of the six‐item US Household Food Security Survey Module, 12 socio‐demographic variables and 32 questions related to elements of food literacy. Food insecure respondents were more likely to frequent fast food vs ( P = .002), takeaway ( P .001) and food courts ( P .001) than their food secure counterparts. Food secure respondents reported greater use of raw ( P = .043) and fresh, pre‐prepared produce ( P = .002) when cooking, whereas food insecure respondents were more likely to prepare food using only frozen, pre‐packaged products ( P .001). No significant differences were found between food security status and the enjoyment and social bonding derived from cooking. Food insecure respondents appeared to be accessing a poorer quality of food through greater consumption of takeaway and fast food. These dietary compromises are most likely related to perceived financial, time or cooking facility constraints and to a lesser extent food literacy skills. This study highlights some of the health and social inequities apparent within food insecure populations. Food insecure households should be supported to access healthy fresh food and in‐home cooking practices. While a multi strategy approach is required, healthy food environment policy, particularly in disadvantaged areas, should be considered to guarantee that all Australians have dignified access to nutritious food.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 25-04-2014
DOI: 10.1093/HMG/DDU150
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 22-08-2016
Abstract: This study investigated determinants of fruit and vegetable (F&V) consumption among regional and remote Western Australian (WA) children, using an Ecological Model of Health Behaviour. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 key informants (Health Workers, Food Supply Workers, and School/Youth Workers) purposively s led from across regional and remote WA. Interviews were transcribed, analysed thematically using QSR-NVivo 10 software, and embedded within an Ecological Model of Health Behaviour to demonstrate the multiple levels of influence on health. Key determinants of F&V consumption at the intrapersonal level included attitude and food literacy among children. Key interpersonal level determinants included role modelling and parental food literacy. Institutional determinants included health service provision, school nutrition education and food skill programs. F&V availability, community networks and health-promoting spaces were key themes affecting families at the community level. The public policy level influencer included implementation of a store policy within local food outlets. Study findings suggested participatory programs with an emphasis on parental involvement and role modelling could increase F&V intake among children living in regional and remote areas while school curriculum linkages were essential for school-based programs. Policy makers should consider further investment in school food literacy programs and family programs that are delivered collaboratively. Further, support of local food supply options and support for healthy food policies in food outlets are critical next steps. This study contributes new knowledge to build the evidence base and facilitate the development of targeted strategies to increase consumption of F&V among children living in regional and remote areas.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2017
Abstract: Inequities can negatively impact the health outcomes of children. The aims of this study were to: i) ascertain the prevalence of food insecurity (FI) among regional and remote Western Australian (WA) children and ii) determine which socio-demographic factors predicted child FI. Caregiver-child dyads (n=219) completed cross-sectional surveys. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analyses were conducted using IBM SPSS version 23. Overall, 20.1% of children were classified as FI. Children whose family received government financial assistance were more likely to be FI (OR 2.60 CI 1.15, 5.91 p=0.022), as were children living in a Medium disadvantage area (OR 2.60 CI 1.18, 5.72 p=0.017), compared to High or Low SEIFA ratings. Study findings are suggestive of the impact low income has on capacity to be food secure. The higher FI prevalence among children from families receiving financial assistance and living in medium disadvantage areas indicates more support for these families is required. Recommendations include: ensuring government plans and policies adequately support disadvantaged families increasing employment opportunities establishing evidence on the causes and the potential impact of FI on children's health. Implications for public health: One in five children were FI, demonstrating that FI is an issue in Western Australia.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 23-05-2016
DOI: 10.3390/NU8050314
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 07-2021
DOI: 10.1111/ELE.13822
Abstract: Explaining large‐scale ordered patterns and their effects on ecosystem functioning is a fundamental and controversial challenge in ecology. Here, we coupled empirical and theoretical approaches to explore how competition and spatial heterogeneity govern the regularity of colony dispersion in fungus‐farming termites. In iduals from different colonies fought fiercely, and inter‐nest distances were greater when nests were large and resources scarce—as expected if competition is strong, large colonies require more resources and foraging area scales with resource availability. Building these principles into a model of inter‐colony competition showed that highly ordered patterns emerged under high resource availability and low resource heterogeneity. Analysis of this dynamical model provided novel insights into the mechanisms that modulate pattern regularity and the emergent effects of these patterns on system‐wide productivity. Our results show how environmental context shapes pattern formation by social‐insect ecosystem engineers, which offers one explanation for the marked variability observed across ecosystems.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2005
DOI: 10.1016/J.BONE.2004.12.005
Abstract: The pathogenesis of osteoporosis involves both genetic and environmental factors. On the basis of linkage data suggesting gene effects on bone density at chromosome 14q and data locating the BMP4 gene to 14q, we performed a positional candidate study to examine a possible association of BMP4 gene polymorphisms, hip bone density (n = 1012) and fracture rates (n = 1232) in postmenopausal women (mean age 75). On genotype analysis of the three selected single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP), the 6007C > T polymorphism was associated with total and intertrochanteric hip BMD and BMD was lower in the 32% of subjects homozygous for the C allele. This polymorphism codes for a nonsynonymous amino acid change with the T allele coding for valine, while the C allele codes for alanine. The difference in BMD was 3.1% (TT vs. CC) and 2.3% (CT versus CC) for the total hip (P = 0.023), and 3.7% (TT vs. CC) and 2.8% (CT versus CC) for the intertrochanter site (P = 0.012). Haplotype analysis demonstrated 6 haplotypes of frequency greater than 2%. A major haplotype defined by G-C-T alleles in SNPs -5826G > A, 3564C > T and 6007C > T respectively, showed association with high bone mass. No SNP showed association with fracture rates. We conclude that a polymorphism found in the BMP4 gene, affecting amino acid sequence, is associated with hip bone density in postmenopausal women, presumably via regulation of anabolic effects on the skeleton.
Publisher: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
Date: 05-12-2011
Abstract: The metabolic machinery of marine microbes can be remarkably plastic, allowing organisms to persist under extreme nutrient limitation. With some exceptions, most theoretical approaches to nutrient uptake in phytoplankton are largely dominated by the classic Michaelis–Menten (MM) uptake functional form, whose constant parameters cannot account for the observed plasticity in the uptake apparatus. Following seminal ideas by earlier researchers, we propose a simple cell-level model based on a dynamic view of the uptake process whereby the cell can regulate the synthesis of uptake proteins in response to changes in both internal and external nutrient concentrations. In our flexible approach, the maximum uptake rate and nutrient affinity increase monotonically as the external nutrient concentration decreases. For low to medium nutrient availability, our model predicts uptake and growth rates larger than the classic MM counterparts, while matching the classic MM results for large nutrient concentrations. These results have important consequences for global coupled models of ocean circulation and biogeochemistry, which lack this regulatory mechanism and are thus likely to underestimate phytoplankton abundances and growth rates in oligotrophic regions of the ocean.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 04-2011
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 08-04-2020
DOI: 10.3390/NU12041026
Abstract: Regional food systems are complex networks, with numerous retail sources that underpin a local economy. However, evidence is limited regarding how consumers define, identify, and source regionally grown fresh fruits and vegetables (RGFFV). A cross-sectional study was conducted in Tasmania (TAS) and South Western Australia (SWA) to compare how RGFFV are defined, identified and sourced by consumers, including self-reported consumption of selected RGFFV. Survey data were analyzed using the Chi-square test and t-tests. Results (TAS n = 120, SWA n = 123) identified that consumers had mixed perceptions of how RGFFV are defined, including produce sold at farmers markets, or grown within their region (TAS/SWA). RGFFV were commonly identified using product labelling (55% TAS, 69% SWA p 0.05). Respondents reported frequently shopping for RGFFV at major supermarkets, with more TAS respondents shopping weekly in comparison to SWA respondents (67% vs. 38% p 0.001). Supermarkets offered convenience and consumers enjoyed the experience of farmers’ markets, especially in TAS (42%) in comparison to SWA (21% p = 0.012). The major RGFFV consumed were root vegetables and apples ears, but consumers were frequently unsure about the produce’s provenance. Our findings indicate multiple opportunities to improve consumption of fresh, regional produce in TAS and SWA, which may positively impact regional economic growth and community health.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2008
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 03-01-2017
Location: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Location: Australia
No related grants have been discovered for Amanda Devine.