Minutes Of Light Physical Activity Research Articles

Objectively measured the impact of ambient air pollution on physical activity for older adults

BackgroundAir pollution poses a significant health risk to the human population, especially for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, potentially discouraging their engagement in physical activity. However, there is a lack of sufficient objective and longitudinal data in current research on how air pollution affects physical activity among older adults. With these gaps, we aimed to explore the relationship between air pollution and objective measurement-based physical activity among older adults by engaging in a longitudinal study design.MethodsA total of 184 older adults were recruited from three cities with varying levels of air quality. Mean daily minutes of physical activity were measured with 7 consecutive days of accelerometer monitoring (ActiGraph GT3X-BT). Corresponding air pollution data including daily PM2.5 (µg/m3), PM10 (µg/m3) and air quality index (AQI) were sourced from the China National Environmental Monitoring Centre at monitor locations close to older adults’ addresses. Associations between air quality and physical activity were estimated using a fixed effect model, adjusting for average daytime temperature, rain, age and weight.ResultsAQI and PM2.5 were observed to exhibit significant, inverse, and linear associations with mean daily walk steps, minutes of light physical activity (LPA), moderate physical activity (MPA) and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in the single variable models. A one-level increase in AQI corresponded to a decline in 550.04 steps (95% [CI] = -858.97, -241.10; p < 0.001), 10.43 min (95% [CI] = -17.07, -3.79; p < 0.001), 4.03 min (95% [CI] = -7.48, -0.59; p < 0.001) and 4.16 min (95% [CI] = -7.77, -0.56; p < 0.001) in daily walking steps, LPA, MPA, and MVPA, respectively. A one-level increase in PM2.5 correlated with a decline in daily walk steps, LPA, MPA and MVPA by 361.85 steps (95% [CI] = -516.53, -207.16; p < 0.001), 8.97 min (95% [CI] = -12.28, -5.66; p < 0.001), 3.73 min (95% [CI] = -5.46, -2.01; p < 0.001,) and 3.79 min (95% [CI] = -5.59, -1.98; p < 0.001), respectively. However, PM10 displayed a significant negative association exclusively with LPA, with one-level increase in PM10 resulting in a 3.7-minute reduction in LPA (95% [CI] = -6.81, -0.59, p < 0.05).ConclusionAir pollution demonstrates an inverse association with physical activity levels among older adults, potentially discouraging their engagement in physical activity. Different air quality indicators may exert varying impacts on physical activity. Future studies are warranted to enhance policy interventions aimed at reducing air pollution and promoting physical activity.

Is overall and timing-specific physical activity associated with depression in older adults?

Regarding the circadian rhythm regulating an individual's response to external stimulation, it remains unclear whether older adults engaged in physical activity at different times of day may be differently related to depression symptoms. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the association between overall and timing-specific physical activity and depressive symptoms in older Taiwanese adults. This cross-sectional study was conducted at a medical center in Taipei City, Taiwan, between September 2020 and December 2021. The participants were community-dwelling older adults aged ≥65 who could walk independently and were not at high risk of cognitive dysfunction. Physical activity was measured using a triaxial accelerometer (GT3X+, ActiGraph) and categorized into timing-specific periods (morning: 06:01-12:00; afternoon: 12:01-18:00; evening: 18:01-24:00) as well as overall physical activity, which included both light physical activity (LPA) and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA). A 15-item Geriatric Depression Scale was utilized to assess and measure depressive symptoms. Multivariate linear regression models were estimated for data analysis. A total of 180 older adults (55.0% female; 80.5 ± 7.1 years old; 18.3% at risk of depression) were included. On average, the participants spent 237.3 (± 85.7) minutes in LPA per day and 12.8 (± 17.0) minutes in MVPA per day. The results showed that overall MVPA engagement was associated with lower depressive-symptom scores [B = -1.357, 95% CI (-2.561, -0.153)] in older adults. However, no significant associations were observed between overall LPA, timing-specific MVPA and LPA, and depression in older adults. To prevent depression in older adults, it is advisable to accumulate a higher amount of MVPA throughout the entire day rather than engage in LPA. Further studies employing a prospective design are necessary to validate and strengthen our findings.

A Device Agnostic Approach to Predict Children's Activity from Consumer Wearable Accelerometer Data: A Proof-of-Concept Study.

This study examined the potential of a device agnostic approach for predicting physical activity from consumer wearable accelerometry compared with a research-grade accelerometry. Seventy-five 5- to 12-year-olds (58% male, 63% White) participated in a 60-min protocol. Children wore wrist-placed consumer wearables (Apple Watch Series 7 and Garmin Vivoactive 4) and a research-grade device (ActiGraph GT9X) concurrently with an indirect calorimeter (COSMED K5). Activity intensities (i.e., inactive, light, moderate-to-vigorous physical activity) were estimated via indirect calorimetry (criterion), and the Hildebrand thresholds were applied to the raw accelerometer data from the consumer wearables and research-grade device. Epoch-by-epoch (e.g., weighted sensitivity, specificity) and discrepancy (e.g., mean bias, absolute error) analyses evaluated agreement between accelerometry-derived and criterion estimates. Equivalence testing evaluated the equivalence of estimates produced by the consumer wearables and ActiGraph. Estimates produced by the raw accelerometry data from ActiGraph, Apple, and Garmin produced similar criterion agreement with weighted sensitivity = 68.2% (95% confidence interval (CI), 67.1%-69.3%), 73.0% (95% CI, 71.8%-74.3%), and 66.6% (95% CI, 65.7%-67.5%), respectively, and weighted specificity = 84.4% (95% CI, 83.6%-85.2%), 82.0% (95% CI, 80.6%-83.4%), and 75.3% (95% CI, 74.7%-75.9%), respectively. Apple Watch produced the lowest mean bias (inactive, -4.0 ± 4.5; light activity, 2.1 ± 4.0) and absolute error (inactive, 4.9 ± 3.4; light activity, 3.6 ± 2.7) for inactive and light physical activity minutes. For moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, ActiGraph produced the lowest mean bias (1.0 ± 2.9) and absolute error (2.8 ± 2.4). No ActiGraph and consumer wearable device estimates were statistically significantly equivalent. Raw accelerometry estimated inactive and light activity from wrist-placed consumer wearables performed similarly to, if not better than, a research-grade device, when compared with indirect calorimetry. This proof-of-concept study highlights the potential of device-agnostic methods for quantifying physical activity intensity via consumer wearables.

Physical Activity in Youth with Down Syndrome and Its Relationship with Adiposity.

The aims of this study are to (1) compare physical activity (PA) and sedentary activity (SA) in youth with and without Down syndrome (DS and non-DS) and examine the relationships of PA and SA with their traditional risk factors (age, sex, race, and body mass index Z score [BMI-Z]) and (2) explore the relationship of PA with visceral fat (VFAT) in both groups. SenseWear accelerometry data from at least 2 weekdays and 1 weekend day were collected from youth with DS (N = 77) and non-DS (N = 57) youth. VFAT was measured by dual x-ray absorptiometry. In age-, sex-, race-, and BMI-Z-adjusted models, those with DS engaged in more minutes of light PA (LPA) ( p < 0.0001) and less SA ( p = 0.003) and trended toward fewer minutes of moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) ( p = 0.08) than non-DS youth. No race or sex differences in MVPA were detected in those with DS, unlike non-DS. After additional adjustment for pubertal status, the relationship between MVPA and VFAT approached significance ( p = 0.06), whereas the relationships of LPA and SA with VFAT were maintained ( p ≤ 0.0001 for both). Youth with DS engage in more LPA compared with non-DS, which, in typically developing populations, can confer a more favorable weight status. Increasing the opportunity for youth with DS to engage in LPA as part of their activities of daily living may offer a viable strategy for achieving healthy weight when barriers restrict pursuit of more vigorous PA.

Accelerometer-measured physical activity and postmenopausal breast cancer incidence in the Women's Health Accelerometry Collaboration.

Few studies have examined accelerometer-measured physical activity and incident breast cancer (BC). Thus, this study examined associations between accelerometer-measured vector magnitude counts per 15 seconds (VM/15s) and average daily minutes of light physical activity (LPA), moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA), and total PA (TPA) and BC risk among women in the Women's Health Accelerometry Collaboration (WHAC). The WHAC comprised 21,089 postmenopausal women (15,375 from the Women's Health Study [WHS]; 5714 from the Women's Health Initiative Objective Physical Activity and Cardiovascular Health Study [OPACH]). Women wore an ActiGraph GT3X+on the hip for ≥4days and were followed for 7.4 average years to identify physician-adjudicated in situ (n=94) or invasive (n=546) BCs. Multivariable stratified Cox regression estimated hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for tertiles of physical activity measures in association with incident BC overall and by cohort. Effect measure modification wasexaminedby age, race/ethnicity, and body mass index (BMI). In covariate-adjusted models, the highest (vs. lowest) tertiles of VM/15s, TPA, LPA, and MVPA were associated with BC HRs of 0.80 (95% CI, 0.64-0.99), 0.84 (95% CI,0.69-1.02), 0.89 (95% CI,0.73-1.08), and 0.81 (95% CI,0.64-1.01), respectively. Further adjustment for BMI or physical function attenuated these associations. Associations were more pronounced among OPACH than WHS women for VM/15s, MVPA, and TPA; younger than older women for MVPA; and women with BMI ≥30 than <30kg/m2 for LPA. Greater levels of accelerometer-assessed PA were associated with lower BC risk. Associations varied by age and obesity and were not independent of BMI or physical function.

Physical activity and relationship to physical function, quality of life, and cognitive function in older patients with acute decompensated heart failure

Volitional physical activity level is predictive of a variety of health outcomes, but has not been examined in patients recently hospitalized for acute decompensated HF (ADHF). Ten to 14 days after index hospitalization for ADHF, 93 participants wore a wrist-mounted triaxial accelerometer (ActiGraph GT3X+) to objectively quantify sedentary behavior, light physical activity, and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. Levels were compared to 2 groups of age-matched NHANES participants: healthy and chronic, stable HF. The relationship between physical activity levels and physical function [Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB)], HF-specific quality-of-life (QOL) [Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ)], and cognition [Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MOCA)] were examined. ADHF participants accumulated a median 1,008 (IQR 896, 1,109) minutes of sedentary time, 88 (57, 139) minutes of light physical activity, and 10 (6, 25) minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity per day. Sedentary time, light physical activity, or moderate-to-vigorous activity did not differ by sex or EF subtype. ADHF participants spent only 9% of awake time nonsedentary, compared to 34% and 27% for healthy adults and adults with chronic, stable HF, respectively. Among ADHF participants, SPPB, KCCQ, and MOCA scores did not differ among quartiles of total physical activity. Older patients recently hospitalized for ADHF have very low levels of physical activity and high levels of sedentary time, both of which may be potential targets for interventions in this high-risk population. Physical activity level was not significantly associated with objectively measured physical function, QOL, or cognition, suggesting that this measure provides independent information regarding the patient experience of living with HF. NCT02196038, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02196038.

Objective and subjective measures of daily physical activity in persons with Multiple Sclerosis beginning a rehabilitation regime: A cross-sectional study

IntroductionFatigue, and balance and gait disorders can impact on physical activity (PA) levels in persons with Multiple Sclerosis (pwMS). To date, several studies have examined PA in pwMS during daily life, but little is known about PA levels in pwMS during a rehabilitation period. The present study investigated PA levels (daily steps, light physical activity (LPA), and moderate-vigorous physical activity (MVPA)) in inpatient and outpatients with MS during their rehabilitation period and described the relationship between objectively measured PA and levels of disability, quality of life, fatigue, and self-efficacy. MethodsIn this exploratory cross-sectional study, we examined 40 pwMS during their inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation regime. Participants included in the study (N = 34) wore a Fitbit Versa tracker for one week recording daily steps, minutes of LPA, and minutes of MVPA (primary outcomes). They underwent a clinical assessment of physical activity levels (Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire(GLTEQ)), fatigue (Fatigue Severity Scale(FSS)), walking ability (10 Meter Walk Test(10MWT), 2-Min Walk Test(2MWT), 12-item Multiple Sclerosis Walking scale(MSWS-12)), quality of life (12-Item Short Form Survey (SF-12)), and self-efficacy (Self-Efficacy in Multiple Sclerosis scale (SEMS)) (secondary outcomes).Multiple linear regressions (MLR) models were used to test whether the demographic difference between the two groups influenced the estimation of objective variables measured by Fitbit. Finally, correlations between objectively measured physical activity and subjective clinical scales were estimated with Spearman correlations. ResultsOur sample consisted of 21 females and 13 males with a mean (interquartile range) age of 52 (20) years and an Expanded Disability Status scale(EDSS) score of 6.0 (1.50) points; baseline characteristics of inpatients (N = 18) and outpatients (N = 16) differed statistically only in EDSS levels (p-value = 0.008) and use of assistive devices (p=0.007). The whole sample performed (mean±standard deviation) 3969±2190 steps per day, with no significant difference between inpatients (3318±1515) and outpatients (4660±2606). No statistical difference was found between the groups in LPA (p-value=0.064). A significant difference in MVPA (p-value < 0.001) was found between inpatients and outpatients, 1.52±3.98 and 14.69±11.56 min per day, respectively. Significant correlations were found between FSS and MVPA both in the whole sample (r(32)= -0.62, p < 0.001) and in the outpatients group (r(14) = -0.66, p = 0.005), and between 10MWT and daily steps (whole sample:(r(32) = 0.48, p = 0.005), outpatients:(r(14)= -0.51, p = 0.05)). ConclusionsPwMS in our study overall engaged in reduced and less intense levels of daily PA with respect to the guidelines with inpatients performing almost no vigorous activities. Considering the importance of PA in improving physical and mental well-being, clinicians and researchers should develope strategies to increase daily PA of PwMS during their rehabilitation programs and daily life.

Objectively measured physical activity levels and adherence to physical activity guidelines in people with multimorbidity-A systematic review and meta-analysis.

To determine levels of objectively measured physical activity (PA) and the proportion of adults with multimorbidity that adheres to PA guidelines. All studies, where PA was measured at baseline using an activity monitor in an adult (≥18 years) multimorbid (≥80% of the population had ≥2 chronic conditions) population. A systematic literature search was performed in Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, CENTRAL, ClinicalTrials.gov, opengrey.eu and google.com from inception up until 18th of January 2022. Risk of bias was assessed with a modified version of the Quality Assessment Tool for Quantitative Studies. A random-effects meta-analyses was performed to estimate daily minutes of sedentary behavior (SB), light PA (LPA), moderate PA (MPA), moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA) and steps. Proportions adhering to PA guidelines was narratively synthesized. Certainty of evidence was determined using The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. Fifteen studies (2,172 participants) were included. The most frequent combination of conditions were type 2 diabetes and hypertension (six studies). Participants spent a daily average of 500.5 (95% CI: 407.1 to 593.9) minutes in SB, 325.6 (95% CI: 246.4 to 404.7 minutes in LPA and 32.7 (95% CI: 20.2 to 45.3) minutes in MVPA. The mean daily number of steps was 5,145 (95% CI: 4264 to 6026) for people in free-living conditions. The proportion adhering to PA guidelines ranged widely (7.4% to 43%). All studies were rated as at high risk of bias and the certainty of evidence was very low. PA levels and adherence varied from low to above guideline recommended levels for adults with chronic conditions, depending on PA intensity. The very low certainty of evidence calls for high quality studies focusing on detailed descriptions of PA behavior in people with multimorbidity. CRD42020172456.

34679 Association of adult atopic dermatitis severity with decreased physical activity: A cross-sectional study

In multivariable logistic regression models controlling for age, sex, race/ethnicity and asthma history, patient-reported global AD severity, Patient-Oriented Eczema Measure (POEM), Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI), and Investigator’s Global Assessment (IGA) were associated with itch impairing light, moderate and vigorous physical activity, and higher Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System Itch Questionnaire Physical Activity T-scores. Higher objective Scoring AD (O-SCORAD) was associated with itch impairing moderate physical activity. In bivariable analyses, odds of performing ≥30 minutes of light physical activity ≥1 day a week were lower with increased patient-reported AD severity, POEM, and EASI scores; ≥30 minutes of moderate physical activity ≥1 day a week were lower with increased patient-reported AD severity, EASI, O-SCORAD, and IGA; ≥30 minutes of vigorous physical activity were lower with increased patient-reported AD severity, EASI, O-SCORAD, and IGA scores. In multivariable logistic regression models, increased impact of itch on physical activity was associated with lower odds of performing light, moderate, and vigorous physical activity.

A-127 The Association Between Objectively-Measured Physical Activity and Cognitive Functioning in Middle-Aged and Older People Living with HIV

Abstract Objective: Middle-aged and older people living with HIV (PWH) are at higher risk for cognitive impairment and engage in lower levels of physical activity (PA) than seronegative counterparts. Though some studies have examined self-reported PA and cognitive outcomes in PWH, research examining the association between objectively-measured PA and cognitive function in this population is scarce. This cross-sectional study examined the association between accelerometry-measured PA and cognitive functioning in PWH. Method: In this study of 75 PWH (mean age 55.63) we collected accelerometry-measured PA indices and cognitive functioning from a comprehensive cognitive assessment. Cognitive outcomes included continuous demographically-adjusted T scores for global cognition and individual cognition domains, as well as a binary cognitive impairment variable. Results: Significant associations were found between PA variables and cognitive domains, including higher bouted (in bouts of ≥10 minutes) light PA minutes per week with better executive function, working memory/attention, and speed of processing performance, adjusted for age and current CD4 count. No significant associations were found between PA variables and the binary cognitive impairment variable, nor were associations found between cognitive functioning variables and a binary variable indicating whether participants met CDC recommendations for PA (i.e., at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-to-vigorous PA). Conclusions: Findings suggest that although middle-aged and older PWH engage in more light than moderate-to-vigorous PA, light PA may be beneficial to cognition. Longitudinal studies are needed to understand PA dose–response associations with cognitive trajectories, cognitive domain specificity of PA effects, and underlying neural mechanisms of PA.

541-P: Patterns of Physical Activity and Cardiometabolic Risk in Hispanic/Latino Adults with or Vulnerable to Type 2 Diabetes

While physical activity (PA) improves physical health, and wearable accelerometers clarify PA behavior, patterns of PA and cardiometabolic risk have not been well studied in ethnic minorities. In the Mil Familias observational cohort study of Hispanic/Latino adults with or at risk for type 2 diabetes (T2D) , PA was measured in 118 women and 59 men (age 56.9±10.6 years, mean±SD, HbA1c 7.1 [6.3, 9.2] %, median [IQR]) ; 150 had T2D (duration 12.2±8.2 years) . An ActiGraph wGT3X-BT was worn on the right hip 24 hours/day for 7 consecutive days (mean 4.5±1.8 days) with ≥hours waking wear time as a valid day. We found that study participants in the low HbA1c (&amp;lt;7.0%) had significantly less waking sedentary minutes (SED) per day than those with high (≥7.0%) HbA1c (see table) . For men, there were significant differences for time standing and sitting, levels of moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) , and LDL cholesterol. In women with diabetes (n=103) , individual fasting HDL (50.7±11.7 mg/dL) was positively correlated with light physical activity minutes (266.0±66.8, r=0.3, p&amp;lt;0.05) . Also, sitting minutes (328±83.2) and standing minutes (352±97.4) correlated with waist circumference (100±12.9 cm) , r=0.2 &amp; r=-0.2, p≤0.respectively. In these Hispanic/Latino adults, PA (from work and/or exercise) and SED time appear to have important cardiometabolic health implications. Disclosure W.C.Bevier: Research Support; Abbott Diabetes. S.Lamunion: None. M.Roach: None. N.M.Glantz: Research Support; Abbott. A.Larez: Research Support; Abbott. K.N.Castorino: Consultant; Lilly Diabetes, Research Support; Abbott Diabetes, Dexcom, Inc., Drawbridge Health, Inc., Eyenuk, Inc., Laxmi Therapeutic Devices, Medtronic, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Novo Nordisk, Speaker's Bureau; Dexcom, Inc. K.Y.Chen: None. D.Kerr: Advisory Panel; Abbott Diabetes, Novo Nordisk A/S, Sanofi, Consultant; Evidation Health, Research Support; Novo Nordisk A/S, Stock/Shareholder; Glooko, Inc., Hi.Health.

Isotemporal Substitution of Sedentary Behavior by Different Physical Activity Intensities on Pain and Disability of Patients With Chronic Low Back Pain: A Cross-Sectional Study

ObjectiveTo investigate the association of isotemporal substitution modeling (ISM) of time spent in sedentary activities with physical activity in different intensities on pain and disability of patients with chronic low back pain (LBP). DesignObservational and cross-sectional study. Device-measured physical activity levels were assessed using an actigraph. Pain intensity was measured using the 11-point numeric rating scale, and disability was measured using the Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire. The ISM was used to estimate the theoretical substitution association of reallocating time from 1 exposure variable to an equal amount of time in another exposure variable while holding total activity time constant. SettingsOutpatient physical therapy clinic. ParticipantsThis study included data from 358 patients (N=358) with chronic LBP aged between 18 and 60 years. Main Outcome MeasuresPain and disability. ResultsOur results suggest that replacing 60 minutes of sedentary behavior with 60 minutes of vigorous activity in a week is significantly associated with a decrease in pain (β=−1.67; 95% confidence interval [CI], −3.18 to −0.15). Additionally, replacing 60 minutes of light physical activity (β=−1.67; 95% CI, −3.18 to −0.16) or moderate activity (β=−1.67; 95% CI, −3.21 to −0.13) with the same amount of time of vigorous activity per week may also favorable reductions in pain. For the analysis of disability, no significant associations (P>.05) for disability in any of the isotemporal models were found. ConclusionsOur results showed that replacing 60 minutes of sedentary behavior with equal amounts of vigorous activity per week was associated with reductions in pain intensity. Similarly, replacing a light or moderate activities with vigorous activity was also associated with reductions in pain intensity. Finally, no significant associations were observed between time spent in sedentary activities with physical activity in different intensities for disability.

Examining reactivity to the measurement of physical activity and sedentary behavior among women in midlife with elevated risk for cardiovascular disease

Objectives To estimate the extent of reactivity to measurement of physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior among women in midlife with elevated risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Design Secondary analysis of a 10-day observational study of PA and sedentary behavior. Main Outcome Measures PA (steps, minutes of light PA, total minutes of moderate-to- vigorous PA [MVPA]) and percent time in sedentary behavior per day were assessed using ActiGraph GT3X tri-axial accelerometers in 75 women in midlife with elevated CVD risk (e.g. hypertension; MAge = 51.61, MBMI = 34.02 kg/m2). Two-level multilevel models were used to test for evidence of reactivity, with the addition of random effects to test for evidence of individual differences in observed trends. Results All outcomes showed linear trends across days (ps < 0.001), though this masked what appeared to be meaningful dropoff after Day 1 or Day 2 (with little difference between subsequent days; srs ranging from 0.15 to 0.32). The random effect was significant only for percent time in sedentary behavior (χ 2[1] = 10.40, p = 0.02). Conclusions Consistent small to medium effects were found for all PA and sedentary behavior outcomes, underscoring the importance of considering measurement reactivity in populations with elevated CVD risk.

Dog-Assisted Physical Activity Intervention in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Feasibility and Efficacy Exploratory Study

ABSTRACT Integrating a therapy dog into physical activity sessions may help children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to increase physical activity and gain-related health benefits. This exploratory intervention assessed the feasibility of integrating a therapy dog into exercise sessions and its efficacy to improve physical activity outcomes in children with ASD. After two familiarization sessions, we randomly assigned 18 children with ASD (mean age = 10.1, SD = 2.5) into two groups (n = 9). We used a crossover design and randomized groups to attend a weekly physical activity session with or without a therapy dog for four weeks. Each group had two sessions with the presence of 1–2 therapy dogs and two sessions without a therapy dog. We assessed feasibility by measuring participant attendance to the crossover sessions and retention in the intervention. We measured efficacy by recording light physical activity, moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA), number of bone-impacts, and sedentary time using activity monitors (accelerometers) in each session. We compared physical activity outcomes between the crossover sessions with and without a therapy dog using repeated measures MANOVA. Attendance at the sessions was 92% and the retention rate was 90%. Participants had 13% more minutes of light physical activity (mean difference = 3.5 min; 95% CI: 1.2, 5.8 min) and 22% less sedentary minutes (–2.4; –4.3, –0.1) in the sessions with a therapy dog. MVPA and the number of bone-impacts did not differ between the sessions (p > 0.05). Our results suggest that integrating therapy dogs into physical activity sessions is feasible and it increases light physical activity and decreases sedentary time in children with ASD.

Differences in Sedentary Time, Light Physical Activity, and Steps Associated with Better COPD Quality of Life.

There is a knowledge gap about how much physical activity is recommended to patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). We asked, what is the average difference in sedentary time and physical activity associated with clinically meaningful differences in symptoms in a large, well-characterized cohort of patients with advanced COPD? We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of daily activity data in 292 patients with stable COPD. Activity measure coefficients from multivariable linear models were used to predict the average difference in activity between patients with twice the minimal clinically important difference in reported symptoms. Symptoms were assessed with the Chronic Respiratory Disease Questionnaire subdomains - dyspnea, fatigue, mastery, and emotions. Daily steps, minutes in light physical activity, and sedentary time were measured by triaxial accelerometers. Average sedentary time, light physical activity, and steps were 767.6 minutes, 177.7 minutes, and 2960 steps, respectively. Individuals with 1-point better dyspnea scores averaged 24.5 (8.4-40.5) minutes less sedentary time per day. Individuals with 1-point better dyspnea and fatigue scores averaged 21.5 (10.9-32.3) minutes or 12.5 (2.0-23.2) minutes more light physical activity per day, respectively. Individuals with 1-point better dyspnea, fatigue, mastery, and emotions scores averaged 762 (546-984), 579 (351-814), 418 (207-636), and 392 (157-634) more steps per day, respectively. We provide guidance to clinicians counseling patients with severe COPD in activity-related goal setting on sedentary time, light physical activity, and steps associated with better symptoms.

Influence of the Home Environment on Physical Activity Behaviors in African American Youth.

Background: This study examined the relationships between components of the home environment and physical activity (PA) behaviors among African American adolescents. Methods: A community-based sample of 99 African American parent-child dyads (62% girls; 42% overweight/obese, 15.0 ± 0.2 years) were included in this analysis. The home environment (PA equipment, family support for PA, and internet access) was evaluated using the Health and Environment Survey. Child PA was measured objectively using accelerometry. Data collection occurred between 2014 and 2016. Results: Internet access was associated with 29 fewer minutes of light physical activity [p = 0.011, β = -29.25 ± 11.28 (95% confidence interval: -51.65 to -6.86)], 9 fewer minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity [p = 0.045, β = -9.10 ± 4.48 (-17.98 to -0.21)], and 38 fewer minutes of total PA (TPA) [p = 0.006, β = -38.35 ± 13.38 (-65.62 to -11.08)]. Family support was associated with 2 minutes of TPA [p = 0.044, β = 2.25 ± 1.10 (-1.97 to 3.19)]. PA equipment was not significantly associated with greater PA (all p's > 0.05). Conclusions: These findings suggest that home internet access may hinder participation in PA among African American adolescents. Future research should continue to identify barriers in the home environment that contribute to physical inactivity among African American adolescents.

Physical Activity and Cognitive Function in African American Older Adults Living With HIV.

The purpose of the current study was to investigate the association between self-reported physical activity (minutes/week) and cognitive functioning in a sample of African American older adults living with HIV. A secondary analysis of baseline data collected from clinically stable African American older adults living with HIV (aged >50 years; N = 124) enrolled in the Rush Center of Excellence on Disparities in HIV and Aging study was conducted. Participants completed a battery of 19 cognitive function tests that were used to create summary scores of global cognition and five cognitive domains. Physical activity was measured using a modified self-report questionnaire derived from a national health survey. Average self-reported number of weekly minutes spent in light physical activity was 290.6 minutes and for moderate/vigorous physical activity was 314.67 minutes. Number of weekly minutes of light physical activity was significantly positively associated with visuospatial ability; however, no associations were found between moderate/vigorous physical activity and any cognitive domain. Contrary to expectations, our findings do not support a relationship between moderate/vigorous physical activity and cognitive function in African American older adults living with HIV. [Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 47(12), 27-34.].

Iron-biofortified pearl millet consumption increases physical activity in Indian adolescent schoolchildren after a 6-month randomised feeding trial.

Fe deficiency has negative effects on voluntary physical activity (PA); however, the impact of consuming Fe-biofortified staple foods on voluntary PA remains unclear. This study compared the effects of consuming Fe-biofortified pearl millet or a conventional pearl millet on measures of voluntary PA in Indian schoolchildren (ages 12-16 years) during a 6-month randomised controlled feeding trial. PA data were collected from 130 children using Actigraph GT3X accelerometers for 6 d at baseline and endline. Minutes spent in light and in moderate-to-vigorous PA were calculated from accelerometer counts using Crouter's refined two-regression model for children. Mixed regression models adjusting for covariates were used to assess relationships between intervention treatment or change in Fe status and PA. Children who consumed Fe-biofortified pearl millet performed 22·3 (95 % CI 1·8, 42·8, P = 0·034) more minutes of light PA each day compared with conventional pearl millet. There was no effect of treatment on moderate-to-vigorous PA. The amount of Fe consumed from pearl millet was related to minutes spent in light PA (estimate 3·4 min/mg Fe (95 % CI 0·3, 6·5, P = 0·031)) and inversely related to daily sedentary minutes (estimate -5·4 min/mg Fe (95 % CI -9·9, -0·9, P = 0·020)). Consuming Fe-biofortified pearl millet increased light PA and decreased sedentary time in Indian schoolchildren in a dose-dependent manner.

COVID-19 era in long-term cardiac rehabilitation programs: how did physical activity and sedentary time change compared to previous years?

Funding AcknowledgementsType of funding sources: None.IntroductionCardiovascular rehabilitation (CR) was one of the many areas negatively affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. A high number of cardiovascular disease (CVD) patients had their centre-based program suspended. Physical activity (PA) recommendations for CVD patients are well established and its benefits largely documented. However, few studies have objectively measured the PA of these patients throughout the years and specifically during the COVID-19 pandemic. PurposeTo objectively measure PA and sedentary time (ST) during COVID-19 pandemic in comparison with the previous 2 years in CVD patients who were attending a phase III centre-based CR program. MethodsBefore COVID-19, eighty-seven CVD patients (mean age 62.9 ± 9.1, 82.8% male) were attending a face-to-face long-term CR program. Of the 87 patients, 78.2% have been on the program for at least 1 year. Every year, PA and ST were objectively assessed by accelerometery. After the CR centre-based program suspension due to COVID-19, efforts were done to create a CR home-based digital model to maintain the continuum of care and avoid losing the previous acquired benefits. After 7 months of suspension, the face-to-face CR centre was reopened and 57.5% (n = 50) patients returned. We completed the assessment of PA and ST of 37 patients (mean age 64.8 ± 8.1, 89.2% male) and compared it as follows: M1) two assessments before COVID-19; M2) last assessment before COVID-19; M3) 7 months after CR program suspension (last trimester of 2020). Patients wore an ActiGraph accelerometer for 7 consecutive days to assess daily and weekly minutes of light PA, moderate-to-vigorous PA and ST. We used repeated-measures ANOVA and Wilcoxon signed rank as a non-parametric alternative.ResultsIntention-to-treat analysis showed that in M3 patients decreased their average daily time spent in moderate-to-vigorous PA when compared with M2 (M3: 37.90 ± 3.30 min/day vs M2: 45.01 ± 3.14 min/day, p = 0.035), no changes were found between M1 and M2. Average daily time spent in light PA improved significantly from M1 to M2 (M1: 154.81 ± 7.20 min/day vs M2: 169.17 ± 6.44 min/day, p = 0.042) but did not change from M2 to M3. Despite this, in M3, 81.08% of the patients still met the recommendations for moderate-to-vigorous PA (M1: 89.19% and M2: 91.89%). No changes were found in ST.ConclusionDespite a significant decrease on the amount of moderate-to-vigorous PA during the COVID-19 era, most CVD patients, first in the centre-based CR program and after in the home-based CR program, were able to meet PA recommendations throughout the last years. These findings suggest that CVD patients who attend supervised long-term CR programs might be aware of the importance of reaching PA guidelines. Reducing ST by replacing it by PA of any intensity could be an important and reachable target for long-term CR programs.

Firefighters Are More Physically Active On-Duty Compared to Off-Duty.

Physical inactivity, coupled with increasing obesity levels, in firefighters plays a key role in aggregated cardiovascular events. The purpose of this study was to investigate device-measured physical activity (PA) for firefighters while on- and off-duty to have a clearer understanding of their overall PA level. Methods: Twenty-nine career firefighters participated in this non-experimental, within-subjects study by wearing an accelerometer to assess PA intensities and step-count. Obesity was classified using body mass index (BMI). Dependent t-tests were used to examine mean differences in PA intensities when on- and off-duty. Pearson product-moment correlations were used to assess the association between PA intensities when on and off-duty. Results: According to the World Health Organization BMI categorizations, 20 firefighters were overweight, 9 were obese, and, thus, none were normal weight. Only light PA (LPA) was statistically significant (p = 0.026) for on- and off-duty days with a small-to-medium effect size (d = 0.47), meaning that on average, firefighters performed more minutes of LPA when on-duty compared to off. There was a significant difference between on- (9060.2 ± 2636.4) and off-duty (7495.3 ± 2835.8) daily step counts (p = 0.011). Conclusion: As the results demonstrate, there is a dire need for increased PA levels in firefighters while on- and off-duty.