Mode-specific physical activity and leukocyte telomere length among U.S. adults: Implications of running on cellular aging

BackgroundPrevious research demonstrates that physical activity participation is associated with longer leukocyte telomere length, with shorter leukocyte telomere length being a hallmark characteristic of cellular aging. What remains under-investigated, however, is whether there is a mode-specific association of physical activity on leukocyte telomere length, which was this study's purpose.MethodsData from the 1999–2002 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were used (N = 6474 adults analyzed). Leukocyte telomere length was assessed using quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Physical activity was assessed via self-report, with participants classified as meeting physical activity guidelines (≥ 2000 metabolic equivalent of task-min-month) for 9 separate physical activities, including aerobics (unweighted percent meeting guidelines: 2.98%; n = 193), basketball (2.0%; n = 129), bicycling (3.71%; n = 240), dance (2.30%; n = 149), running (3.09%; n = 200), stair climbing (1.33%, n = 86), swimming (1.85%, n = 120), walking (13.53%; n = 876), and weight lifting (2.61%; n = 169).ResultsIn a single multivariable linear regression model including the independent variables of age, gender, race-ethnicity, weight status, total cholesterol, C-reactive protein, total metabolic equivalent of task-min-month of physical activity and the 9 binary meeting physical activity guideline variables, the only mode of physical activity that was significantly associated with leukocyte telomere length was meeting physical activity guidelines from running (β = 0.06; 95% CI: 0.01–0.11; P = 0.03).ConclusionRunning-specific physical activity was the only evaluated physical activity associated with leukocyte telomere length, which may provide one potential mechanism (i.e., leukocyte telomere length) through which running-based physical activity may help to prevent cardiovascular disease and premature mortality.     

Methods to elicit beliefs for Bayesian priors: a systematic review

ObjectiveBayesian analysis can incorporate clinicians' beliefs about treatment effectiveness into models that estimate treatment effects. Many elicitation methods are available, but it is unclear if any confer advantages based on principles of measurement science. We review belief-elicitation methods for Bayesian analysis and determine if any of them had an incremental value over the others based on its validity, reliability, and responsiveness.Study Design and SettingA systematic review was performed. MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Health and Psychosocial Instruments, Current Index to Statistics, MathSciNet, and Zentralblatt Math were searched using the terms (prior OR prior probability distribution) AND (beliefs OR elicitation) AND (Bayes OR Bayesian). Studies were evaluated on: design, question stem, response options, analysis, consideration of validity, reliability, and responsiveness.ResultsWe identified 33 studies describing methods for elicitation in a Bayesian context. Elicitation occurred in cross-sectional studies (n = 30, 89%), to derive point estimates with individual-level variation (n = 19; 58%). Although 64% (n = 21) considered validity, 24% (n = 8) reliability, 12% (n = 4) responsiveness of the elicitation methods, only 12% (n = 4) formally tested validity, 6% (n = 2) tested reliability, and none tested responsiveness.ConclusionsWe have summarized methods of belief elicitation for Bayesian priors. The validity, reliability, and responsiveness of elicitation methods have been infrequently evaluated. Until comparative studies are performed, strategies to reduce the effects of bias on the elicitation should be used.     

Gender differences in the longitudinal associations of depressive symptoms and leisure-time physical activity with cognitive decline in ≥ 57 year-old Taiwanese

ObjectiveThis study investigates the role of gender in the associations of long-term depressive symptoms and leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) with the risk of cognitive decline in elderly Taiwanese.MethodWe analyzed 3679 subjects (age ≥ 57) in the 2003 and 2007 datasets of the Taiwan Longitudinal Survey on Aging, of which data were collected via face-to-face interviews by trained interviewers. We excluded proxy respondents. Multivariable logistic regression analysis examined the associations of long-term depressive symptoms (increased symptoms: CES-D10 scores from < 10 to ≥ 10; decreased symptoms: from ≥ 10 to < 10) and LTPA (frequency, duration, and intensity) with cognitive decline (a decrease of two or more SPMSQ scores).ResultsWomen had significant higher percentages of cognitive impairment, compared to men, at the baseline (5.9 vs. 1.5%; χ² = 51.24, p < 0.001) and end-point (10.8 vs. 5.2%;χ² = 39.5, p < 0.001). Men with long-term depressive symptoms had 5.28 greater odds of cognitive decline (OR = 5.28, 95%CI = 2.84–9.82, p < 0.001) and men with increased depressive symptoms had 2.09 greater odds (2.09, 1.24–3.51, p = 0.006). No such association was observed in women. Men with consistently high LTPA had 65% (0.35, 0.19–0.65, p = 0.001) and women with increased LTPA had 43% (0.57, 0.34–0.93, p = 0.024) reduction in odds of developing cognitive decline.ConclusionWe found gender differences in the longitudinal association between depressive symptoms and cognitive decline. Long-term LTPA may loosen the association between long-term depressive symptoms and cognitive decline. These findings are useful in the identification of vulnerable elderly in the Taiwanese population and public health interventions should focus on assisting their cognitive aging.     

Investigating links between moderate-to-vigorous physical activity and cognitive performance in elementary school students

BackgroundResearch has noted both physical and psychological benefits when children participate in physical activity. Recent studies indicate there may also be academic benefits and students may be more efficient learners after physical activity. This study investigated the influence of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) on four cognitive processes: planning, attention, simultaneous processing, and successive processing.MethodsParticipants were two classes of fourth-grade students in Ontario (n = 40). Using a counterbalanced design, students in the two classes completed standardized tests for each cognitive process both after no physical activity and following it (20 min MVPA within a 45 min lesson).ResultsThe results indicate that performance on the planning test significantly improved after physical activity (p < 0.001), controlling for sequence and habituation/retesting effects. No improvement was observed for attention, simultaneous processing, or successive processing.ConclusionPlanning is associated with problem solving skills and behaviour self-regulation. These skills may be improved in elementary school students immediately following physical activity.     

Rasch analysis informed the development of a classification system for a diabetes-specific preference-based measure of health

ObjectiveTo develop a classification system (CS) for a diabetes-specific preference-based measure of health titled the Diabetes Utility Index (DUI).Study Design and SettingFactor analysis of the Audit of Diabetes-Dependent Quality-of-Life (ADDQoL) items (n = 385) identified plausible attributes. An expert panel provided qualitative input, including additional items. Data from three pilot rounds on patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes were analyzed using Rasch analysis (RA). In a validation survey, the final version of the CS was mailed along with the SF-12v2, Well-Being Questionnaire, and Diabetes Empowerment Scale Short Form to a convenience sample (type 1 or type 2 diabetes).ResultsFactor analysis identified two plausible attributes. Experts rated the importance of ADDQoL and additional items, described attributes from item sets and suggested severity levels. Three pilot rounds (n1 = 52, n2 = 65, n3 = 111) tested versions of a CS, containing five attributes with severity levels that were modified using RA and expert input. The final attributes were Physical Ability and Energy, Relationships, Mood and Feelings, Enjoyment of Diet, and Satisfaction with Management of Diabetes. The validation survey (n = 396) results indicated satisfactory Rasch fit statistics, reliability, and severity scaling, whereas correspondence of responses to the CS with included measures suggested validity.ConclusionResults provide initial report of the validity and reliability of the CS of the DUI.     

Implementing classroom physical activity breaks: Associations with student physical activity and classroom behavior

ObjectiveTo investigate the relation of classroom physical activity breaks to students' physical activity and classroom behavior.MethodsSix elementary-school districts in California implemented classroom physical activity interventions in 2013–2014. Students' (N = 1322) accelerometer-measured moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) during school and teachers' (N = 397) reports of implementation and classroom behavior were assessed in 24 schools at two time points (both post-intervention). Mixed-effects models accounted for nested data.ResultsMinutes/day of activity breaks was positively associated with students' MVPA (βs = .07–.14; ps = .012–.016). Students in classrooms with activity breaks were more likely to obtain 30 min/day of MVPA during school (OR = 1.75; p = .002). Implementation was negatively associated with students having a lack of effort in class (β = − .17; p = .042), and student MVPA was negatively associated with students being off task or inattentive in the classroom (β = − .17; p = .042). Students provided with 3–4 physical activity opportunities (classroom breaks, recess, PE, dedicated PE teacher) had ≈ 5 more min/day of school MVPA than students with no opportunities (B = 1.53 min/opportunity; p = .002).ConclusionsImplementing classroom physical activity breaks can improve student physical activity during school and behavior in the classroom. Comprehensive school physical activity programs that include classroom-based activity are likely needed to meet the 30 min/day school physical activity guideline.     

The likelihood of participation in clinical trials can be measured: the Clinical Research Involvement Scales

ObjectiveWe developed the Clinical Research Involvement Scales (CRIS) to assess the willingness to participate in a clinical trial.Study Design and SettingDiverse populations (N = 919) aged 18 years or older from Atlanta, Georgia, were included in comprehensive testing of the 41-item CRIS instrument. The formative phase focused on item content for the new measures (n = 54). Questionnaires from potential vaccine trial participants (n = 865), collected at multiple time points, resulted in the evaluation of scale reliability and validity (i.e., attitudes, behavioral and normative beliefs, perceived social support for clinical research participation, social norm compliance, perceptions of the clinical research organization, and perceived relevance of the research endeavor).ResultsQualitative testing revealed adequate comprehension and content validity of the initial item set. The subjective norms domain (n = 3) initially exhibited poor internal consistency in pilot testing (Cronbach's α = 0.525); yet, rewording of the items resulted in consistently stable measurement improvement (Cronbach's α = 0.850). Each of the CRIS subscales demonstrated extremely high reliability, ranging from 0.734 to 0.918. Confirmatory factor analysis verified item–factor relationships and determined construct and convergent validity (root mean square error of approximation = 0.068; comparative fit index = 0.835).ConclusionsCRIS is a reliable instrument for measuring community attitudes toward participation in biomedical research studies. Results of this study support the use of these scales to recruit diverse populations to clinical trials.     

Preliminary state of development of prediction models for primary care physical therapy: a systematic review

ObjectiveTo summarize the methodological quality and developmental stage of prediction models for musculoskeletal complaints that are relevant for physical therapists in primary care.Study Design and SettingA systematic literature search was carried out in the databases of Medline, Embase, and Cinahl. Studies on prediction models for musculoskeletal complaints that can be used by primary care physical therapists were included. Methodological quality of the studies was assessed and relevant study characteristics were extracted.ResultsThe search retrieved 4,702 references of which 29 studies were included in this review. The study quality of the included studies showed substantial variation. The studied populations consisted mostly of back (n = 10) and neck pain (n = 6) patients, and patients with knee complaints (n = 4). Most studies (n = 22) used “perceived recovery” as primary outcome. Most prediction models (n = 18) were at the derivation level of development.ConclusionsMany prediction models are available for a wide range of patient populations. The developmental stage of most models is preliminary and the study quality is often moderate. We do not recommend physiotherapist to use these models yet. All models reviewed here are in the developmental stage and need validation and impact evaluation before using them in daily practice.     

Self-determined motivation and physical activity in children and adolescents: A systematic review and meta-analysis

ObjectiveSelf-determination theory is used as a framework for examining the relation between motivation and physical activity. The purpose of this review was to systematically review studies that assessed the association between self-determined motivation and physical activity levels in children and adolescents.MethodWe searched electronic databases in April 2013. Included studies assessed the relation between motivation (as outlined in self-determination theory) and physical activity in children and adolescents.ResultsForty-six studies (n = 15,984 participants) met the inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis indicated that overall levels of self-determined motivation had a weak to moderate, positive associations with physical activity (ρ = .21 to .31). Autonomous forms of motivation (i.e., intrinsic motivation and identified regulation) had moderate, positive associations with physical activity (ρ = .27 to .38), whereas controlled forms of motivation (i.e., introjection and external regulation) had weak, negative associations with physical activity (ρ = − .03 to −.17). Amotivation had a weak, negative association with physical activity (ρ = − .11 to − .21).ConclusionsEvidence provides some support for self-determination theory tenets. However, there was substantial heterogeneity in most associations and many studies had methodological shortcomings.     

Physical activity and healthy eating environmental audit tools in youth care settings: A systematic review

BackgroundThere is a growing interest in evaluating the physical activity (PA) and healthy eating (HE) policy and practice environment characteristics in settings frequented by youth (≤ 18 years).ObjectiveThis review evaluates the measurement properties of audit tools designed to assess PA and HE policy and practice environment characteristics in settings that care for youth (e.g., childcare, school, afterschool, summer camp).MethodThree electronic databases, reference lists, educational department and national health organizations' web pages were searched between January 1980 and February 2014 to identify tools assessing PA and/or HE policy and practice environments in settings that care for youth (≤ 18 years).ResultsSixty-five audit tools were identified of which 53 individual tools met the inclusion criteria. Thirty-three tools assessed both the PA and HE domains, 6 assessed the PA domain and 14 assessed the HE domain solely. The majority of the tools were self-assessment tools (n = 40), and were developed to assess the PA and/or HE environment in school settings (n = 33), childcare (n = 12), and after school programs (n = 4). Four tools assessed the community at-large and had sections for assessing preschool, school and/or afterschool settings within the tool. The majority of audit tools lacked validity and/or reliability data (n = 42). Inter-rater reliability and construct validity were the most frequently reported reliability (n = 7) and validity types (n = 5).ConclusionsLimited attention has been given to establishing the reliability and validity of audit tools for settings that care for youth. Future efforts should be directed towards establishing a strong measurement foundation for these important environmental audit tools.     

Physically active vs. sedentary academic lessons: A dose response study for elementary student time on task

BackgroundPhysically active academic lessons are an effective intervention to reduce sedentary time and increase student physical activity. They have also been shown to enhance task engagement, as indicated by observations of attention and behavior control, time on task (TOT). However, it is not clear if the improved TOT stems from the physical activity or if it is the result of an enjoyable break from traditional instruction. If it is due to physical activity, what dose of intensity is required for the effect? This study was designed to test these questions.MethodsParticipants were 320 children (7–9 years) recruited from school districts in Central Texas in 2012. They were assigned by classroom (n = 20) to one of four conditions: 1) sedentary, standard lesson (n = 72); 2) sedentary academic game (n = 87); 3) low to moderate intensity PA (LMPA), academic game (n = 81); and 4) moderate to vigorous intensity PA (MVPA), academic game (n = 76). Measures included PA via accelerometer and TOT.ResultsMixed-method RMANOVA indicated TOT decreased following the standard lesson (p < 0.001), showed no change following the sedentary academic game (p = 0.68), and increased following the LMPA (p < 0.01) and MVPA (p < 0.001) academic games.ConclusionsWhile the sedentary, academic game prevented the reduction in TOT observed in the standard lesson, PA resulted in increased TOT. Future research should be designed to examine the potential academic benefits of the change in TOT.     

Weight and health-related quality of life: The moderating role of weight discrimination and internalized weight bias

ObjectivesObesity is an increasingly prevalent public health concern, with associated medical comorbidities and impairment in health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Obese women are frequently victims of weight-related discrimination. The HRQoL impairments among obese people could be related to this discrimination and to internalized weight bias.DesignWe examined the potential moderating role of discrimination (from others) and self-directed (internalized) weight-based discrimination in the association between body mass index (BMI) and HRQoL.MethodsEighty-one women (mean age = 41.1 years; mean BMI = 43.40 kg/m², 97% Caucasian) completed valid and reliable measures of weight bias internalization (weight bias internalization scale), perceived discrimination by others (everyday discrimination scale) and both physical and mental HRQoL (SF-36 Health Survey). Multiple regression analysis was used to test whether internalized weight bias or discrimination moderated the association between BMI and the summary scores for physical and mental HRQoL, controlling for age.ResultsSignificant associations were found between BMI and discrimination (r = .36, p = .002), between internalized weight bias and both mental (r = .61, p < .001) and physical HRQoL (r = .45, p < .001), and between discrimination and physical HRQoL (r = .29, p = .014). A statistically significant interaction was found between BMI and internalized weight bias (b = − .21, SE = .10, p < 0.05) in accounting for the variance in physical HRQoL.ConclusionsThe association between higher BMI and poorer physical HRQoL was found only in individuals reporting high levels of internalized weight bias. Self-discrimination among overweight individuals may be a critical factor in their physical health impairment.     

The ‘Healthy Dads,Healthy Kids’ community randomized controlled trial: A community-based healthy lifestyle program for fathers and their children

ObjectiveTo evaluate the effectiveness of the ‘Healthy Dads, Healthy Kids (HDHK)’ program when delivered by trained facilitators in community settings.MethodA two-arm randomized controlled trial of 93 overweight/obese fathers (mean [SD] age = 40.3 [5.3] years; BMI = 32.5 [3.8] kg/m²) and their primary school-aged children (n = 132) from the Hunter Region, Australia. In 2010–2011, families were randomized to either: (i) HDHK intervention (n = 48 fathers, n = 72 children) or (ii) wait-list control group. The 7-week intervention included seven sessions and resources (booklets, pedometers). Assessments were held at baseline and 14-weeks with fathers' weight (kg) as the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes for fathers and children included waist, BMI, blood pressure, resting heart rate, physical activity (pedometry), and self-reported dietary intake and sedentary behaviors.ResultsLinear mixed models (intention-to-treat) revealed significant between-group differences for fathers' weight (P < .001, d = 0.24), with HDHK fathers losing more weight (− 3.3 kg; 95%CI, − 4.3, − 2.4) than control fathers (0.1 kg; 95%CI, − 0.9,1.0). Significant treatment effects (P < .05) were also found for fathers' waist (d = 0.41), BMI (d = 0.26), resting heart rate (d = 0.59), energy intake (d = 0.49) and physical activity (d = 0.46) and for children's physical activity (d = 0.50) and adiposity (d = 0.07).DiscussionHDHK significantly improved health outcomes and behaviors in fathers and children, providing evidence for program effectiveness when delivered in a community setting.     

Adolescents validly report their exposure to secondhand smoke

ObjectiveThis study examined the validity of child-reported exposure to secondhand smoke (SHS) and investigated factors, such as child's age, which might affect accuracy of recall.Study Design and SettingParticipants were drawn from a nonprobability sample of 380 families who completed baseline assessment as part of a randomized trial of an SHS reduction intervention conducted in an urban setting in Southern California. Parents and children (aged 8–13 years) retrospectively reported child's exposure to SHS using timeline followback methodology; reports were compared with child's urine cotinine.ResultsValidity coefficients for parents and children were comparable (r = 0.58 vs. r = 0.53), but parents recalled three times more exposure than children (2.2 vs. 0.8 cigarettes per day; P < 0.001). Regression models predicting cotinine indicated that including child in addition to parent reports resulted in better prediction than either alone.ConclusionWhen there is a choice, parent reports are preferable over child reports because of decreased underreporting. However, child-reported SHS exposure had adequate validity (r > 0.50) and might be appropriate in some situations. Researchers might consider collecting both parent and child reports because each made a unique contribution to the prediction of cotinine.     

The factors associated with toddlers’ screen time change in the STEPS Study: A two-year follow-up

Background and ObjectivesEarly childhood screen time seems to persist into later childhood. This study examined the factors affecting the screen time change during the first two years of toddler’s lives in Finland. We hypothesized that parents’ sedentary behaviour and physical activity habits correlate significantly with children’s screen time change.MethodsThe data consists of 1797 mothers, 1658 fathers and their 1827 children from the STEPS Study (Steps to the healthy development) in Southwest Finland. Screen time change during the two-year follow-up was calculated for those (n = 634) who had both 13 and 36 months screen time measures (13 months, n = 940; 36 months, n = 845). Demographic correlates and parental behavioural correlates were measured with questionnaires, and anthropometric measurements in study visits.ResultsThe mean change in the children’s screen time was a 55 min increase from 13 to 36 months. A linear mixed model analysis showed that the father’s longer duration of sitting time was statistically significantly associated with a smaller increase in screen time of the child. Parents’ physical activity was not associated with children’s screen time change. The mother’s advanced education, a younger age, and a lower screen time, the child attending day care and the child’s lower body mass index were associated with children’s smaller increase in screen time.ConclusionThe mother’s advanced education as well as the father’s sitting time, including sitting at the office, implied that children of higher educated parents have a smaller increase in screen time. Future studies should focus on studying why parental education has a greater influence on children’s screen time change than parents’ behaviour.     

Short-form Zarit Caregiver Burden Interviews were valid in advanced conditions

ObjectivesTo assess six short-form versions of Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI-12, ZBI-8, ZBI-7, ZBI-6, ZBI-4, and ZBI-1) among three caregiving populations.Study Design and SettingSecondary analysis of carers' surveys in advanced cancer (n = 105), dementia (n = 131), and acquired brain injury (n = 215). All completed demographic information and the ZBI-22 were used. Validity was assessed by Spearman correlations and internal consistency using Cronbach's alpha. Overall discrimination ability was evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC).ResultsAll short-form versions, except the ZBI-1 in advanced cancer (rho = 0.63), displayed good correlations (rho = 0.74–0.97) with the ZBI-22. Cronbach's alphas suggested high internal consistency (range: 0.69–0.89) even for the ZBI-4. Discriminative ability was good for all short forms (AUC range: 0.90–0.99); the best AUC was for ZBI-12 (0.99; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.98–0.99) and the second best for ZBI-7 (0.98; 95% CI: 0.96–0.98) and ZBI-6 (0.98; 95% CI: 0.97–0.99).ConclusionsAll six short-form ZBI have very good validity, internal consistency, and discriminative ability. ZBI-12 is endorsed as the best short-form version; ZBI-7 and ZBI-6 show almost equal properties and are suitable when a fewer-question version is needed. ZBI-4 and ZBI-1 are suitable for screening, but ZBI-1 may be less valid in cancer.     

Obesity prevention and obesogenic behavior interventions in child care: A systematic review

ObjectiveReview peer-reviewed interventions designed to reduce obesity and improve obesogenic behaviors, including physical activity, diet, and screen time, at child care centers. Interventions components and outcomes, study design, duration, use of behavioral theory, and level of social ecological influence are detailed.MethodsArticle searches were conducted from March 2014, October 2014, March 2015, January 2016 across three databases. Eligible interventions were conducted in child care settings, included 3-to-5-year-old children, included an outcome measure of obesity or obesogenic behavior, and published in English. Study design quality was assessed using Stetler's Level of Quantitative Evidence.ResultsAll unique records were screened (n = 4589): 237 articles were assessed for eligibility. Of these, 97 articles describing 71 interventions met inclusion criteria. Forty-four articles included multi-level interventions. Twenty-nine interventions included an outcome measure of obesity. Forty-one interventions included physical activity. Forty-five included diet. Eight included screen time. Fifty-five percent of interventions were Level II (randomized controlled trials), while 37% were Level III (quasi-experimental or pre-post only study design), and 8% were Level IV (non-experimental or natural experiments). Most interventions had the intended effect on the target: obesity 48% (n = 14), physical activity 73% (n = 30), diet 87% (n = 39), and screen time 63% (n = 5).ConclusionSummarizing intervention strategies and assessing their effectiveness contributes to the existing literature and may provide direction for practitioners and researchers working with young children in child care. Most interventions produced the targeted changes in obesity and obesity-associated behaviors, supporting current and future efforts to collaborate with early-care centers and professionals for obesity prevention.     

Summary-of-findings tables in Cochrane reviews improved understanding and rapid retrieval of key information

ObjectiveTo measure the effects of a summary-of-findings (SoF) table on user satisfaction, understanding, and time spent finding key results in a Cochrane review.Study Design and SettingWe randomized participants in an evidence-based practice workshop (randomized controlled trial [RCT] I) and a Cochrane Collaboration entities meeting (RCT II) to receive a Cochrane review with or without an SoF table. In RCT I, we measured user satisfaction. In RCT II, we measured correct comprehension and time spent finding key results.ResultsRCT I: Participants with the SoF table (n = 47) were more likely to “agree” or “strongly agree” that it was easy to find results for important outcomes than (n = 25) participants without the SoF table—68% vs. 40% (P = 0.021). RCT II: Participants with the SoF table (n = 18) were more likely to correctly answer two questions regarding results than (n = 15) those without the SoF table: 93% vs. 44% (P = 0.003) and 87% vs. 11% (P < 0.001). Participants with the SoF table spent an average of 90 seconds to find key information compared with 4 minutes for participants without the SoF table (P = 0.002).ConclusionIn two small trials, we found that inclusion of an SoF table in a review improved understanding and rapid retrieval of key findings compared with reviews with no SoF table.     

Hábitos saludables y prevención de la osteoporosis en mujeres perimenopáusicas de un ámbito rural

ObjectiveThe probability of developing osteoporosis decreases with an adequate supply of vitamin D, a balanced diet, and increased physical activity. In this study, we evaluated whether an educational intervention improves osteoporosis-related behavior in perimenopausal women from rural areas.MethodsA randomized experimental evaluation was performed of an educational intervention. The variables were physical activity, calcium intake and sun exposure in women from rural areas aged 45-54 years (n = 216) at time 0 and 12 months after the educational intervention. In the control group (n = 106), the information was sent by surface mail (month 0). In the intervention group (n = 110), two interactive workshops were given (month 0). The topic of the workshops and the information sent by surface mail was healthy habits for osteoporosis prevention.ResultsAfter 12 months, the intervention group, but not the control group, had increased their physical activity (p = 0.006), sun exposure (p = 0.029), and calcium intake (53% to 64%).ConclusionA simple educational intervention in perimenopausal women from rural areas improved healthy habits for osteoporosis prevention.     

Prospective effects of pedometer use and class competitions on physical activity in youth: A cluster-randomized controlled trial

ObjectiveTo evaluate the immediate effects of a school-based multi-component program to foster a physically active lifestyle in adolescence.Design/participantsIn a cluster-randomized controlled trial with pre- and post-assessment in 2014, 29 schools with 1162 8th grade students (48% girls) from Germany were included. Age ranged from 12 to 17 years (M = 13.74; SD = 0.67).InterventionWhile the control group attended education as usual, students in the intervention group received pedometers and took part in a class competition over a time period of 12 weeks. Classes with the most steps and best creative ideas to promote physical activity in everyday life were awarded.Main outcome measuresPrimary outcomes included out-of-school sports activities (h/week), moderate to vigorous physical activity (days/week with a minimum of 60 min), active commuting (min/day), doing chores (min/day), and sedentary behavior (h/day) assessed through self-administered questionnaires as well as cardiorespiratory fitness measured using the 20-m shuttle-run test (completed laps).ResultsSignificant interaction terms between group and wave of assessment were found on out-of-school sports activities (b = − 1.09 [− 1.89; − 0.29], p = 0.008), moderate to vigorous physical activity (b = − 0.29 [− 0.47; − 0.10], p = 0.002), and active commuting (b = − 20.41 [− 32.32; − 8.49], p = 0.001): students in the intervention group showed a higher increase of physical activity levels than students in the control group. The intervention effect on cardiorespiratory fitness missed significance marginally (b = − 1.52 [− 3.14; 0.98], p = 0.065), There was no effect on students' sedentary behavior (b = 0.06 [− 0.72; 0.84], p = 0.881).ConclusionsAn easy to administer school-based physical activity program (12 weeks) may enhance students' leisure-time physical activity.Trial registration number: ISRCTN49482118