Short-form International Physical Activity Research Articles

Sex Differences in Physical Activity Levels and Sitting Time in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation.

While research demonstrates low levels of physical activity (PA) among adults living with atrial fibrillation (AF), there is limited evidence investigating sex differences in moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) and sedentary time in this population. The primary aim was to examine sex differences in MVPA levels and sitting time between women and men with AF. Secondary aims explored sex differences in sociodemographic factors, outcome expectations, and task self-efficacy toward PA levels. This was a subanalysis of the CHAMPLAIN-AF cohort study. Women and men with AF completed a survey, including the Short-Form International Physical Activity Questionnaire. A total of 210 women (median = 66.0 yr: 95% CI, 63.5-68.0) and 409 men (median = 66.0 yr: 95% CI, 64.0-67.0) were included. No sex differences were observed in median weekly MVPA (60 min/wk: 95% CI, 0-120 in women vs 120 min/wk: 95% CI, 85-150 in men) and daily sitting time (5.5 hr/d: 95% CI, 5.0-6.0 in women vs 6.0 hr/d: 95% CI, 5.0-6.0 in men). Women engaged in significantly less vigorous-intensity PA than men (P = .03) and demonstrated significantly lower task self-efficacy (P < .01). Significant positive correlations in PA levels with outcome expectations (mostly weak) and task self-efficacy (mostly strong) were observed in both sexes. Most women and men with AF did not meet the global MVPA guidelines but met the sitting time recommendation. Women presented with lower vigorous-intensity physical activity levels and confidence than men. Strategies to increase physical activity behavior, considering sociodemographic factors and task self-efficacy, are needed and may differ between sexes.

Physical Activity as A Major Low Back Pain Complaints Among Office Worker in Their Working Life: Cross Sectional Study

Low back pain is a very common problem that can affect a variety of ages. The symptoms of low back pain can be caused by lumbar spine problems such as root pain, radiculopathy, and spinal tract stenosis. The intervertebral disk and the joint facet are two lumbar structures that can cause pain. One element that contributes to low back discomfort is physical activity. The study design used correlation analysis with a cross-sectional approach. The sampling technique used in this study is consecutive sampling. The sample is 37 teachers with an age range of 35 – 60 years. To indentify physical activity is used Short-Form International Physical Activity Questionnaire and for identifying low back pain complaints is used Pain and Distress Scale (William J.K. Zunga) in the Primala study was analyzed using the Chi-Square test. The teachers and perform moderate activities, don’t have complaints of low back pain of 15 (40,5%), heavy activity, did have a complaint of low back pain of 22 (59,5%). The results of the Chi-square test showed that there was a significant relationship between physical activity and low back pain complaints (p value=0,000;α&lt;0,05). Appropriate and consistent activity that is adapted to the body's capacities and age will have a positive influence on the building of stronger muscles and bones. Adequate and regular physical activity can help prevent low back pain complaints

Central obesity, obesity, and physical activity among university staffs

Waist circumference (WC) is considered as a superior indicator to predict central obesity and its related comorbidities. Limited studies were conducted to infer central obesity using WC among university staffs. A cross-sectional study through the convenience sampling method was employed using the short form international physical activity questionnaire, anthropometric measurements, and WC measurement to infer a level of physical activity, body mass index (BMI), and central obesity. Seventy staff from three private universities in Malaysia participated in this study. There is a high prevalence (78.6%) of central obesity among the participants irrespective of their age. Majority of the participants fall under the overweight (37.1%) and obese (21.4%) category of BMI 48.6% reported to be involved in low level of physical activity. No difference in prevalence of central obesity based on age, gender, and level of physical activity. There is a moderately strong correlation between BMI and WC. In this study notably a high prevalence of central obesity in participants with underweight and desirable weight category of BMI was reported, which synergizes the concept of including WC measurement in health promotion activities. Appropriate multi- component and multi-level interventions can be considered to this population to prevent/combat obesity.

Pet Ownership and Physical Activity in Older Adults: Cross-Sectional Analyses from the NICOLA Study

Aging research indicates that there is increased sedentary behaviour and insufficient physical activity levels across the older adult population. There is a growing body of evidence that suggests that pet ownership can have beneficial physical and mental health effects. Data were drawn from the Northern Ireland Cohort for the Longitudinal Study of Ageing (NICOLA). This questionnaire measured general social demographics such as gender, age, and marital status while also examining elements of physical activity, lifestyle factors (drinking status, smoking status), and education. Two items from the short form International Physical Activity Questionnaire recorded moderate and vigorous activity. Respondents were asked if they owned a pet (Yes/No). The results are based on a secondary data analysis. An ordinal logistic regression revealed that an increase in moderate activity days was associated with pet ownership with an odds ratio of 0.111 (95% CI, −0.036 to 0.337), Wald χ2 (1) 15.013, p &lt; 0.001. An increase in vigorous activity days was associated with pet ownership with an odds ratio of 0.039 (95% CI, 0.004 to 0.342), Wald χ2 (1) 8.952, p = 0.003). Amongst older adults in Northern Ireland, those with a pet were more likely to engage in regular physical activity. This study was based on a small specific sample of the population and showed differences in physical activity levels between pet owners and non-pet owners. Additionally, the study showed that physical activity is extremely low among the older adult population, therefore further investigation is warranted on the reasons for these low levels.

The Analyses of the Relationship between Physical Activity, Musculoskeletal System Problems, Sleep, and Screen Exposure Time in University students during the Distance Learning Process

Purpose: To investigate the relationship between physical activity, musculoskeletal system problems, sleep, and screen exposure time in university students during the distance learning process. &#x0D; Methods: Three hundred and one students (183 female, 118 male) participated in the study via online survey. The screen exposure time was recorded. The physical activity using Short Form International Physical Activity Questionnaire and pain using Visual Analog Scale were evaluated. Nordic Musculoskeletal System Questionnaire was used to evaluate musculoskeletal symptoms. The Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index was applied for the details of sleep quality. &#x0D; Results: The students had a low level of physical activity (58.8%) and poor sleep quality (70.8%). Musculoskeletal pain was reported in upper back (85%), lower back (85%), neck (79.4%), shoulder (71.4%). The pain was correlated with total sleep quality (r=0.320, p

ASSOCIATIONS BETWEEN MEASURES OF SLEEP QUALITY, PHYSICAL ACTIVITY, ANXIETY, AND STRESS AMONG ADULTS

Abstract Good quality sleep is important for physical and mental well-being and plays a vital role in healthy aging. Additionally, sleep quality is influenced by multiple factors associated with aging, such as lifestyle, depression, and physical activity levels. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between self-reported measures of physical activity levels, anxiety, stress, and sleep quality among adults aged 45-75 years. Adults (N = 204) completed the short form International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-Item Scale (GAD-7), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Participants were classified as either good quality sleepers (GQS, n = 65, 67.7% female, M±SD: age: 61.7±8.9 yrs; mass: 82.8±16.7 kg, height: 169.6±10.2 cm, education: 17.3 yrs) or poor quality sleepers (PQS, n = 139, 77.7% female, M±SD: age: 61.9±8.0 yrs; mass: 83.1±16.2 kg, height: 166.4±8.5 cm, education: 18.0 yrs) using their PSQI global score. A score of ≥5 denoted PQS. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Spearman correlation, and Chi-square (p ≤ .05). Sleep quality was negatively associated with the PSS (r = -.17, p = .02) and GAD-7 (r = -.19, p &amp;lt; .01). Adults reporting PQS presented with higher levels of perceived stress and generalized anxiety. The relation between sleep quality and IPAQ was significant (X2 = 8.47, p = .01). These results suggest there was a greater tendency for PQS to report lower levels of physical activity and higher levels of stress and generalized anxiety.

Hubungan Asupan Makronutrien, Aktivitas Fisik, dan Status Gizi dengan Usia Menarche Pada Remaja Perempuan Usia 9-15 Tahun di Desa Kedunglosari Kabupaten Jombang

Background: Menarche is the first menstruation experienced by adolescent girls. The age of menarche in Indonesia has decreased from 13 years in 2010 to 12.4 years in 2018. The age of menarche is influenced by internal and external factors, some of the factors are macronutrient intake, physical activity, and nutritional status. The decrease in age at menarche is associated with an increased likelihood of uterine myoma, dysmenorrhea, and breast cancer.&#x0D; Objectives: To analyze the relationship between macronutrient intake, physical activity, nutritional status and age at menarche in adolescents Girl 9-15 years old.&#x0D; Methods: This research used cross sectional design with sample size of 87 adolescent girls who had experienced menstruation and selected using simple random sampling. Data were collected by macronutrient intake used Semi-Food Frequency Questionnaire (SQFFQ), physical activity used Short Form International Physical Activity Questionnaire (SF-IPAQ), anthropometric data to assess nutritional status through measurement of body weight and height and age of menarche used a self-report questionnaire. Data was analyzed by t-test, chi-square and linear regression with 95% confidence level.&#x0D; Result: There was a significant relationship between fat intake (­p = 0,049) and nutritional status (β = -0.92, p &lt;0.001) with the age of menarche. The results of the analysis showed that there was no significant relationship between energy intake (p = 0,058), protein intake (p = 0,178), carbohydrate intake (p = 0,099), and physical activity (p = 0,422) with age at menarche.&#x0D; Conclusions: fat intake and nutritional status during adolescence is related to the age of menarche. Prevention for cancer in women should be carried out as early as possible when adolescent girls have not menarche. One of prevention is managing the nutritional status of adolescent girls by paying attention to diet.&#x0D; Keywords: nutritional status, macronutrient intake, physical activity, age at menarche, adolescent girls

249 MINIMALLY-EFFECTIVE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY DOSE FOR GENERALIZED ANXIETY DISORDER AMONG OLDER ADULTS: PRELIMINARY FINDINGS FROM THE IRISH LONGITUDINAL STUDY ON AGEING

Abstract Background Among older adults, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), a debilitating condition characterized by persistent excessive worry, is associated with poorer quality of life and estimated cost to the individual of €1,864 annually. Meeting recommended Physical Activity (PA) levels has been associated with lower odds of GAD; however, the minimally-sufficient dose associated with benefits is currently unknown. Herein, we quantified the association between different PA doses and worry symptoms and GAD status among older adults across 10 years (waves 1-5) as part of The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing. Methods PA was measured at each wave using the short-form International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Five dose categories were examined (0, 1-&amp;lt;600, 600-&amp;lt;1,200, 1,200-&amp;lt;2,400, and ≥2,400 MET.min.week-1). At all waves, worry symptoms were assessed using the abbreviated Penn State Worry Questionnaire continuous score; a score of ≥23 classified GAD status. Additionally, for Waves 2-5, the CIDI GAD quantified diagnosis of GAD during the past 12 months. Poisson regression with Stata quantified associations between PA dose and GAD and worry symptoms, adjusted for age, health/lifestyle variables and antipsychotics/anxiolytic medication. Results Among 2,200 participants, compared to lowest PA dose, only the highest PA dose (i.e., ≥2,400 MET.min.week-1) was significantly associated with 35% lower odds of GAD (OR=0.65; 95%CI: 0.51, 0.82; p≤0.001). For continuous worry symptoms, meeting the recommendation of at least 600 MET.min.week-1 was significantly, inversely associated with worry symptoms (coefficient= –0.02; 95%CI: –0.033, –0.005; p≤0.009). Female sex, less education, taking anxiolytics, and current smoking were also associated with greater odds of GAD and greater worry severity. Conclusion High physical activity dose was associated with lower odds of GAD over 10 years among older adults. Present findings suggest that older adults, particularly females and smokers, may need to exceed recommended physical activity levels to protect against GAD.

305 PHYSICAL ACTIVITY &amp; DEPRESSION AMONG OLDER ADULTS WITH DIABETES: PRELIMINARY EVIDENCE FROM 10 YEARS OF THE IRISH LONGITUDINAL STUDY ON AGEING (TILDA)

Abstract Background Older adults living with diabetes are at increased risk of physical and mental health issues, including depression. Among older adults living with diabetes, the salutary benefits of Physical Activity (PA), including increased insulin sensitivity and improved glycaemic control, are well established; however, less is known about the relationship between PA and depression. Thus, we quantified associations between different PA doses and depressive symptoms and status among older adults living with diabetes across 10 years (waves 1-5) as part of The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing. Methods Older adults (n=268) living with diabetes were identified through self-report and/or medication use. PA was measured with the short-form International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Five dose categories (0, 1-&amp;lt;600, 600-&amp;lt;1,200, 1,200-&amp;lt;2,400 and ≥2,400 MET.minutes per week) were examined. At all waves, depressive symptoms were assessed using the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale short form; a score of ≥16 classified depression. From Waves 2-5, the Composite International Diagnostic Interview quantified diagnosis of a Major Depressive Episode during the past 12 months, or depression status. Poisson regression models quantified the associations between PA dose and depressive symptoms and status across time, adjusted for age, health/lifestyle variables, and antidepressant medication. Results The minimal PA dose associated with lower depressive symptoms was 1-&amp;lt;600 MET.mins (coefficient = –0.20; 95%CI: –0.35, –0.05; p≤0.009). A dose of 600-&amp;lt;1200 MET.min was significantly associated with lower odds of depression status (OR = 0.66; 95%CI: 0.50, 0.87; p≤0.004). Additionally, being male, having sufficient vitamin D intake and lower age were associated with lower odds of depressive symptoms. Conclusion Present findings suggest that even low PA doses protect against depressive symptoms among older adults living with diabetes. This further supports the importance of promoting PA for mental health among this high-risk population group.

266 MINIMALLY-EFFECTIVE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY DOSE FOR DEPRESSION AMONG OLDER ADULTS: PRELIMINARY FINDINGS FROM THE IRISH LONGITUDINAL STUDY ON AGEING

Abstract Background Among older adults, depression is associated with increased risk of lower physical, social, and cognitive function. Physical Activity (PA) has been associated with lower odds of depression; however, the minimally sufficient dose for protection is unknown. Herein, we quantified the association between different PA doses and depressive symptoms and status among older adults across 10 years (waves 1-5) as part of The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing. Methods PA was measured at each wave using the short-form International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-SF). Five dose categories (0, 1-&amp;lt;600, 600-&amp;lt;1,200, 1,200-&amp;lt;2,400 and ≥2,400 MET.min.week-1) were examined. At all waves, depressive symptoms were assessed using the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale short form (CES-D) and a score of ≥16 was used to define depression. From Waves 2-5, the Composite International Diagnostic Interview quantified diagnosis of a Major Depressive Episode during the past 12 months, or depression status. Poisson regression quantified associations between PA dose and depressive symptoms and status across time, adjusted for age, health/lifestyle variables and antidepressant medication. Results Among 4,017 participants, depression status changed from 8.2% at wave 1 to 12.2% at wave 5. The minimal PA dose associated with lower depressive symptoms was 1-&amp;lt;600 MET.min.week-1 (coefficient = –0.06; 95%CI: –0.10, –0.02; p≤0.003). A dose of 600-&amp;lt;1,200 MET.min.week-1 was significantly associated with lower odds of depression status (OR = 0.66; 95%CI: 0.50, 0.87; p≤0.004). Other positive predictors associated with lower odds of depression included greater age, higher education status, and sufficient vitamin D status. Conclusion Present findings suggest that even low physical activity doses appear protective against depressive symptoms among older adults. Moderate PA dose, consistent with WHO recommendations, was protective against major depression over a 10-year period among older adults. However, individuals with chronic conditions may have different PA dose requirements, which should be further investigated.

Neuromuscular Training, Exercise Physiology Clinic, Real-time Exercise, and Cardiac Rehabilitation

Neuromuscular Training, Exercise Physiology Clinic, Real-time Exercise, and Cardiac Rehabilitation

Relationship between Habitual Physical Activity, Depression and Functional Mobility in Older Adults - A Pilot Cross Sectional Study

Introduction: Ageing is characterized by a decline in mobility function and mental health. Physical activity can possibly play a role in maintaining mental health and functional independence in older adults, but it is seen that elderly persons do not tend to be adequately physically active. Purpose: To assess physical activity, depression and functional mobility in older adults and to determine the relationship between these factors in them. Materials and Methods: A pilot cross sectional study was conducted on 40 older adults with age ≥ 65 years (mean=69.72, SD=± 4.95). Physical activity was assessed using Short Form International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ- SF), depression with Short Form Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS- SF) and functional mobility using Time Up and Go test (TUG). Statistical Analysis: The data was analyzed using Spearman co-efficient of correlation and regression analysis to examine the relationship between IPAQ, GDS and TUG scores. Results: A significant negative correlation was found between GDS and IPAQ and with IPAQ and TUG. Between GDS and TUG, there was a significant positive correlation. All correlations were significant with p value &lt;0.05. Regression analysis showed that increased IPAQ scores could predict lower TUG scores and lower GDS scores. Conclusion: There was a significant association between level of physical activity, depression, and functional mobility in older adults. Each of these factors needs to be considered when addressing others, considering the relationship between them. Encouraging elderly persons to stay physically active can help maintain their physical and mental health. Keywords: Older adults, Physical activity, Depression, Functional mobility, Fear of fall, Loneliness.

The Physical Activity Levels and Sitting Time of Adults Living With Atrial Fibrillation: The CHAMPLAIN-AF Study

BackgroundThe primary goal of this study was to determine the time spent completing moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) among adults with atrial fibrillation (AF). Secondary aims examined MVPA and sitting time (ST) by AF subtypes (ie, paroxysmal, persistent, long-standing persistent, and permanent) and associations between MVPA or ST and knowledge, task self-efficacy, and outcome expectations. MethodsAn observational study was conducted in the Champlain region of Ontario, Canada. AF patients completed a survey to determine MVPA and ST using the Short-Form International Physical Activity Questionnaire. ResultsA total of 619 patients (66% male; median age 65 years [95% CI 64-67 years]) completed the survey. Median MVPA and ST were 100 (60-120) min/wk and 6 (5-6) h/d; 56% of patients were not meeting the Canadian 24H Movement Guidelines. Most patients (54%) did not know/were unsure of the MVPA recommendations, yet 72% thought physical activity should be part of AF management. Positive correlations were found between higher MVPA levels and the following: (i) speaking to a healthcare professional about engaging in physical activity for managing AF (ρ = 0.108, P = 0.017); (ii) greater confidence regarding ability to perform physical activity and muscle-strengthening exercise (ρ = 0.421, P < 0.01); and (iii) patient agreement that AF would be better managed if they were active (ρ = 0.205, P < 0.01). ConclusionsMany AF patients do not meet the MVPA recommendations, which may be due to lack of physical activity knowledge. Exercise professionals may help educate patients on the benefits of physical activity, improve task-self efficacy, and integrate MVPA into patient lifestyles.

Predisease Physical Activity Level and Current Functional Capacity in Patients With COVID-19: Relationship With Pneumonia and Oxygen Requirement.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, restrictive measures can reduce physical activity. The purpose of this study was to evaluate predisease physical activity and current functional capacity in patients with and without the presence of pneumonia and oxygen requirement in Turkish survivors of COVID-19. Among the COVID-19 patients admitted to the hospital, 100 patients were selected. Data about predisease physical activity (by short-form International Physical Activity Questionnaire), oxygen requirement and presence of pneumonia, and current functional capacity (by the 6-min walking test) were collected. Continuous and categorical variables were compared with the Mann-Whitney U and χ2 test, respectively (P < .05). The predisease physical activity levels and current functional capacity of patients with pneumonia and oxygen requirement were significantly lower than patients without pneumonia and oxygen requirement (P < .05). However, there was no significant difference between males and females (P > 0.05). Pneumonia and oxygen requirement was more common in the older adults (P < .05). Also, a significant correlation was found between age with predisease physical activity (r = .530, P = .000) and current functional capacity (r = -.346, P = .000) and predisease physical activity level with current functional capacity (r = .523, P = .001). The physical activity level may be related to the severity of COVID-19 disease.

Single and Combinative Impacts of Healthy Eating Behavior and Physical Activity on COVID-19-like Symptoms among Outpatients: A Multi-Hospital and Health Center Survey.

Background: Healthy eating and physical activity are effective non-pharmacological approaches to boost immune function and contain the pandemic. We aimed to explore the associations and interactions between physical activity and healthy eating behavior with COVID-19-like symptoms (Slike-CV19S). Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 3947 outpatients, from 14 February to 2 March 2020, at nine health facilities in Vietnam. Data collection included sociodemographic characteristics, healthy eating behavior (using the healthy eating score (HES) questionnaire), physical activity (using the short form international physical activity questionnaire), and Slike-CV19S. The associations and interactions were tested using logistic regression models. Results: Frequent intake of fruits (OR = 0.84; p = 0.016), vegetables (OR = 0.72; p = 0.036), and fish (OR = 0.43; p < 0.001) were associated with a lower Slike-CV19S likelihood, as compared with infrequent intake. Patients with higher HES levels (OR = 0.84; p = 0.033 for medium HES; OR = 0.77; p = 0.006 for high HES) or being physically active (OR = 0.69; p < 0.001) had a lower Slike-CV19S likelihood, as compared to those with low HES or physical inactivity, respectively. Patients with medium HES who were physically active (OR = 0.69; p = 0.005), or with high HES and physically active (OR = 0.58; p < 0.001), had a lower Slike-CV19S likelihood, as compared to those with low HES and physical inactivity. Conclusions: Healthy eating behavior and physical activity showed single and combinative impacts on protecting people from Slike-CV19S. Strategic approaches are encouraged to improve healthy behaviors, which may further contribute to containing the pandemic.

Factors Influencing Physical Activity During The COVID-19 Pandemic In Adults From Utah

PURPOSE: The novel coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) has resulted in disruptions to daily routines, including physical activity (PA). PA is a behavior that could assist in both prevention of and recovery from SARS-CoV-2 infection. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate changes in PA and the factors that associate with PA during COVID-19 in a sample of adults from Utah. METHODS: Participants were a sample of 201 adults (52.7% Female; Age: 40.6 ± 18.5 yrs; BMI: 26.7 ± 5.8 kg/m2) living in the state of Utah who were given 3 sets of online questionnaires during the first 3 waves of the COVID-19 pandemic in the US (wave 1: April-July; wave 2: Aug-Sept; wave 3: Oct-Dec). Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) was self-reported at three study time points via the short form International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Self-efficacy for exercise (via the Self-Efficacy for Exercise Scale), self-reported COVID-19 related changes to work/occupation, and working from home were also examined in the relationship with MVPA. A general linear mixed-effects model was used to examine the associations between pandemic wave, self-efficacy, occupation change, and working from home status with MVPA. Effect modification was tested using interaction terms. RESULTS: Individuals who worked from home tended to have lower self-reported log-MVPA compared to those not working from home (b = -0.77; 95%CI = -1.31 - -0.23; p = 0.005). However, those who reported only that their work was affected by the pandemic did not exhibit significantly higher or lower log-MVPA (p = 0.67). Finally, those with high self-efficacy had higher log-MVPA compared to those with low self-efficacy (b = 0.58; 95%CI = 0.04 - 1.12; p = 0.034). CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that MVPA during COVID-19 is affected by specific work-related variables and self-efficacy for PA. These findings can help to inform and establish interventions to improve health outcomes during and after global pandemics, such as COVID-19.

Screening tools to expedite assessment of frailty in people receiving haemodialysis: a diagnostic accuracy study

BackgroundFrailty is associated with multiple adverse outcomes in stage-5 chronic kidney disease (CKD-5) and upwards of one third of people receiving haemodialysis (HD) are frail. While many frailty screening methods are available in both uremic and non-uremic populations, their implementation in clinical settings is often challenged by time and resource constraints. In this study, we explored the diagnostic accuracy of time-efficient screening tools in people receiving HD.MethodsA convenience sample of 76 people receiving HD [mean age = 61.1 years (SD = 14), 53.9% male] from three Renal Units were recruited for this cross-sectional study. Frailty was diagnosed by means of the Fried phenotype. Physical performance-based screening tools encompassed handgrip strength, 15-ft gait speed, timed up and go (TUG), and five-repetition sit to stand (STS-5) tests. In addition, participants completed the SF-36 Health Survey, the short-form international physical activity questionnaire and the Tinetti falls efficacy scale (FES) as further frailty-related measures. Outcome measures included the area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, positive (PPV) and negative predictive values (NPV). The diagnostic performance of screening tools in assessing fall-risk was also investigated.ResultsOverall, 36.8% of participants were classified as frail. All the examined instruments could significantly discriminate frailty status in the study population. Gait speed [AUC = 0.89 (95%CI: 0.81–0.98), sensitivity = 75%, specificity = 93%] and TUG [AUC = 0.90 (95%CI: 0.80–0.99), sensitivity = 89%, specificity = 85%] exhibited the highest diagnostic accuracy. There was a significant difference in gait speed AUC (20%, p = 0.013) between participants aged 65 years or older (n = 36) and those under 65 years of age (n = 40), with better discriminating performance in the younger sub-group. The Tinetti FES was the only instrument showing good diagnostic accuracy (AUCs≥0.80) for both frailty (sensitivity = 82%, specificity = 79%) and fall-risk (sensitivity = 82%, specificity = 71%) screening.ConclusionsThis cross-sectional study revealed that time- and cost-efficient walking performance measures can accurately be used for frailty-screening purposes in people receiving HD. While self-selected gait speed had an excellent performance in people under 65 years of age, TUG may be a more suitable screening method for elderly patients (≥65 years). The Tinetti FES may be a clinically useful test when physical testing is not achievable.

Association of Antioxidant Intake and Blood Lactate Level Among 20–55 Years Old Malaysian Adults

Abstract Objectives This study aimed to investigate the association between dietary antioxidant intake and blood lactate level among 20–55 years old Malaysian adults. Methods Subjects (N = 80) of this cross-sectional study were recruited through convenience sampling. Sole Fitness LCB Upright Bike was used to conduct the modified Wingate Anaerobic Test. Dietary antioxidant level was assessed by using Malaysian Adult Nutrition Survey (MANS) 2014 food frequency questionnaire. Short Form International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) was used to assess the physical activity level of the subjects. Blood lactate concentration was assessed by The Edge TM blood lactate analyzer, before and after exercise. Saliva samples were collected from subjects for total antioxidant capacity determination using the 2,2-diphenyl-1- picryl-hydrazyl test of saliva (DPPHS) assay. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. Results The median of total antioxidant intake among Malaysian male and female adults were 1030.64 (734.74) and 9392.90 (10360.44) mg/day, respectively. A significant difference between the means blood lactate level before and after exercise was observed, however, no significant difference in the mean salivary total antioxidant capacity (TAC) before and after exercise. No significant association observed between the total antioxidant intake and salivary TAC before exercise for both males and females, whereas a significant positive moderate association was observed after exercise for females. A significant inverse moderate association between blood lactate level and salivary TAC before exercise was observed among the males in the present study but no association found after exercise for both males and females. Conclusions Present study indicated no significant association between the total dietary antioxidant intake and blood lactate level among Malaysian adults aged 20–55 years old. Future research with larger sample size should develop strategically to confirm these initial findings. Funding Sources International Medical University, Malaysia

Feasibility and acceptability of a culturally tailored physical activity intervention for Arab-Australian women

BackgroundDespite being one of the largest migrant groups in Australia, few physical activity interventions exist for Arab-Australians. The primary aim of this study was to test the feasibility and acceptability of a 12-week culturally tailored physical activity intervention for Arab-Australian women.MethodsThis study used a single-group pretest–posttest design, and was informed by extensive formative research and consultation involving the Arab-Australian community. Participants were insufficiently active Arab-Australian women aged 35–64 with no current illness or injury that would limit physical activity participation. The intervention comprised 6 face-to-face physical activity and education sessions over 12 weeks. The intervention was conducted at 2 separate intervention sites in Western Sydney, Australia. Feasibility outcomes included recruitment, session attendance, and retention. The acceptability of the intervention was assessed through a process evaluation questionnaire completed post-intervention. Accelerometers and the short-form International Physical Activity Questionnaire were used to measure physical activity at baseline and post-intervention. Descriptive statistics were used for feasibility and acceptability outcomes, and changes in physical activity were examined using Wilcoxon signed-rank tests.ResultsOf the 53 women who were contacted or expressed interest, 22 were eligible and enrolled in the study. Participants were primarily recruited through direct contact by Arab-Australian community workers and by word-of-mouth. Average session attendance was 63% and the retention rate post-intervention was 68%. The culturally-related intervention components, such as the appropriateness of content, and women-only setting, were rated highly favourably (4.33 to 4.87/5). General intervention elements, such as the face-to-face delivery, knowledge and approachability of facilitators, and session structure, were also rated favourably (4.33 to 4.93/5), and the lowest scored item was the intervention session frequency (3.2/5). There were no statistically significant changes in physical activity post-intervention.ConclusionsThe findings from this study highlighted factors related to recruitment and delivery that need to be considered when developing physical activity interventions for Arab-Australian women. Further research is required using a larger sample and a randomised controlled trial design to examine the longer-term impact on physical activity, and to also examine ways of increasing intervention engagement and retention among Arab-Australian women.Trial Registration: ANZCTR, ACTRN12618001392257. Registered 20 August 2018, https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=375636.

The Association Between Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Resting-State Prefrontal Cortex Oxygenation Is Modified by Self-Reported Physical Activity: Results From The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing.

Individuals with anxiety disorders exhibit lower intrinsic functional connectivity between prefrontal cortical areas and subcortical regions. The prefrontal cortex (PFC) is sensitive to the acute and chronic effects of physical activity (PA), while the anxiolytic effects of PA are well known. The current study examined the association of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and its interaction with PA, with resting-state, left PFC oxygenation. This cross-sectional study used data from participants (N = 2444) from The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing, a nationally representative prospective study of community-living adults aged 50 and older in Ireland. The Composite International Diagnostic Interview Short-Form determined fulfillment of criteria for GAD. The short-form International Physical Activity Questionnaire determined adherence to the World Health Organization PA guidelines. Resting-state, left PFC oxygenation was continuously measured via a Portalite. Tissue saturation index (TSI) was calculated as the ratio of oxygenated hemoglobin to total tissue hemoglobin (expressed as a percentage) for the final minute of a 5-minute supine-rest period. Multivariable linear regression quantified associations of GAD with TSI in the total population and population stratified by PA status. Participants with GAD had lower TSI (b = -1.416, p = .008) compared to those without GAD. However, this association was modified by PA. Among participants who met the PA guidelines, TSI did not differ according to GAD status (b = -0.800, p = .398). For participants who did not meet the guidelines, TSI was significantly lower among those with GAD (b = -1.758, p = .004). These findings suggest that PA may help to protect brain health among older adults with GAD.