Search

Background/Context: Children without siblings (singletons) have higher rates of obesity than do children with siblings (nonsingletons). Higher moderate to vigorous physical activity (PA) and less sedentary behavior (SB) are associated with lower childhood obesity. Purpose: To examine the difference in PA and SB between singleton and nonsingleton children. Methods: Mothers of children ages 5.0–7.9 years old who were singletons or nonsingletons with a sibling between the ages of 2.0 and 4.9 years old were recruited. Height, weight, and waist circumference of the 5.0- to 7.9-year-old children were measured, and age and sex percentiles were calculated. Accelerometry measured SB and PA, including light PA, moderate to vigorous PA, and counts per minute. Results: Fifty-six mother–child dyads (23 singletons and 33 nonsingletons) with an average child age of 5.7 (0.7) years participated. More singletons were classified as overweight or obese than were nonsingletons (49% vs 17%, P =.04). In adjusted linear models, singletons had less light PA per day (β = −38.1, SE = 19.2, P =.001) and more SB (β = 38.0, SE = 16.5, P =.02) than did nonsingletons, with no difference in moderate to vigorous PA or counts per minute. Conclusion: In this sample, singletons had higher obesity and lower light PA than did nonsingleton children. Investigation into differences in singleton/nonsingleton families, including family health behaviors, may help assess sibling influence in early behavior development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Describe nutrition and physical activity practices, nutrition self-efficacy and barriers and food programme knowledge within Family Child Care Homes (FCCH) and differences by staffing.Design: Baseline, cross-sectional analyses of the Happy Healthy Homes randomised trial (NCT03560050).Setting: FCCH in Oklahoma, USA.Participants: FCCH providers (n 49, 100 % women, 30·6 % Non-Hispanic Black, 2·0 % Hispanic, 4·1 % American Indian/Alaska Native, 51·0 % Non-Hispanic white, 44·2 ± 14·2 years of age. 53·1 % had additional staff) self-reported nutrition and physical activity practices and policies, nutrition self-efficacy and barriers and food programme knowledge. Differences between providers with and without additional staff were adjusted for multiple comparisons (P < 0·01).Results: The prevalence of meeting all nutrition and physical activity best practices ranged from 0·0-43·8 % to 4·1-16·7 %, respectively. Average nutrition and physical activity scores were 3·2 ± 0·3 and 3·0 ± 0·5 (max 4·0), respectively. Sum nutrition and physical activity scores were 137·5 ± 12·6 (max 172·0) and 48·4 ± 7·5 (max 64·0), respectively. Providers reported high nutrition self-efficacy and few barriers. The majority of providers (73·9-84·7 %) felt that they could meet food programme best practices; however, knowledge of food programme best practices was lower than anticipated (median 63-67 % accuracy). More providers with additional staff had higher self-efficacy in family-style meal service than did those who did not (P = 0·006).Conclusions: Providers had high self-efficacy in meeting nutrition best practices and reported few barriers. While providers were successfully meeting some individual best practices, few met all. Few differences were observed between FCCH providers with and without additional staff. FCCH providers need additional nutrition training on implementation of best practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The 2016 United States (U.S.) Report Card on Physical Activity for Children and Youth provides a comprehensive evaluation of physical activity levels and factors influencing physical activity among children and youth. Methods: The report card includes 10 indicators: Overall Physical Activity, Sedentary Behavior, Active Transportation, Organized Sport Participation, Active Play, Health-related Fitness, Family and Peers, School, Community and the Built Environment, and Government Strategies and Investments. Nationally representative data were used to evaluate the indicators using a standard grading rubric. Results: Sufficient data were available to assign grades to 7 of the indicators, and these ranged from B- for Community and the Built Environment to F for Active Transportation. Overall Physical Activity received a grade of D- due to the low prevalence of meeting physical activity guidelines. A grade of D was assigned to Health-related Fitness, reflecting the low prevalence of meeting cardiorespiratory fitness standards. Disparities across age, gender, racial/ethnic and socioeconomic groups were observed for several indicators. Conclusions: Continued poor grades suggest that additional work is required to provide opportunities for U.S. children to be physically active. The observed disparities indicate that special attention should be given to girls, minorities, and those from lower socioeconomic groups when implementing intervention strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents results from U.S. 2018 Report Card on Physical Activity for Children and Youth. It mentions indicators on the basis of which grades are assigned including organized sport participation, active transportation, and sedentary behavior. The report card reveals that children and youth in the U.S. are insufficiently active, and that additional work is required to provide opportunities for children to lead active lifestyles.

Aim: This study aimed to assess the relationship between the family environment and behaviours with objective child sleep quality. Methods: Twenty‐four children (aged 2–5 years) and their parents participated. Child sleep was assessed by accelerometer. Health of the family environment was quantified using the Family Nutrition and Physical Activity Screening Tool (FNPA). Exact Wilcoxon rank sum tests and linear regression were used to determine associations between FNPA scores and child sleep. Results: Healthier Total FNPA, Physical Activity FNPA, and Sleep Routine scores were associated with earlier bedtime. Healthier Sleep Routine score was associated with more total minutes of sleep per night. Healthier screen time‐related FNPA construct scores were associated with earlier bedtime. Conclusions: A composite score of family environment and behaviours, including physical activity‐ and nutrition‐related constructs, was related to child sleep quality. Focus should be placed on the obesogenic family environment and healthy sleep routines to promote overall health among pre‐school‐aged populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to determine if light physical activity (LPA) minimizes the impairment of cardiometabolic risk factors following a typical meal in adolescents. Eighteen adolescents (50% male, 14.8 ± 2.3 yrs) consumed a meal (32% fat, 14% protein, 53% carbohydrate), then completed a walking (1.5mph for 45 min of each hour) or sitting treatment for 3 hr in randomized order on separate days. Following the meal, HDL cholesterol declined 4.8% but remained higher during walking at 3 hr (42.1mg/dl ± 9.3) than sitting (8.4% decline; 40.5mg/dL ± 9.9; treatment x time interaction, p < .03). The 3-hr insulin was lower after walking (24.8µIU/ml ± 33.4) than sitting (37.8µIU/ml ± 34.7; treatment x time interaction, p < .0001). Triglycerides increased by ~40% above baseline at 1 and 2 hr, with higher values for walking (treatment x time interaction, p < .02). However by 3 hr, triglycerides were not different from baseline. Area under the curve (AUC) analyses were not significantly different between treatments for any outcomes. Although minor, LPA appears to mitigate the undesirable postprandial changes in HDL cholesterol and insulin but not triglycerides, following a typical meal in adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Objective physical activity data analyses focus on moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) without considering lower intensity lifestyle-type activities (LA). We describe 1 ) quantity of LA (minutes and steps per day) across demographic groups, 2) proportion of LA to total physical activity, and 3) relationships between LA and MVPA using NHANES 2005-2006 accelerometer adult data (n = 3744). Methods: LA was defined as 760 to 2019 counts per minute (cpm) and MVPA as ≥2020 cpm. LA was compared within gender, ethnicity, age, and BMI groups. Regression analyses examined independent effects. Correlations were evaluated between LA and MVPA. All analyses incorporated sampling weights to represent national estimates. Results: Adults spent 110.4 ± 1.6 minutes and took 3476 ± 54 steps per day in LA. Similar to MVPA, LA was highest in men, Mexican Americans, and lowest in adults ≥60 years or obese. When LA was held constant, ethnic differences no longer predicted MVPA minutes, and age no longer predicted MVPA steps. LA and MVPA minutes (r = .84) and steps per day (r = .72) were significantly correlated, but attenuated with MVPA modified bouts (≥10 minutes sustained activity). Conclusions: LA accumulation differs between demographic subgroups and is related to MVPA: adults who spend more minutes and steps in MVPA also spend them in LA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to develop an understanding of how stakeholders, specifically early care and education (ECE) teachers, perceive their role in the development of young American Indian children, and envision working with health care providers and parents in order to enhance children's health. Methodology: Twenty tribally affiliated ECE teachers from Oklahoma participated in interviews. Thematic analysis was conducted, and three main themes, each with two to three subthemes, emerged. Results: Teachers felt that nutrition and physical activity were important to children's health. Teachers had little professional interaction with health care providers but desired more. Parental empowerment was conveyed as essential to actualize positive changes in their child's behavior. Discussion: Teachers of tribally affiliated ECE centers are important stakeholders in promoting the health and well-being of young American Indian children. Additional efforts are needed to more effectively integrate teachers and nurses in order to create effective interventions. We propose a stakeholder partnership to guide the development of future interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While the relationships between physical activity (PA), obesity, and motor skills have been independently examined by previous research, this study explored both independent and combined relationships between children’s PA, weight status, and motor skills within a multiple regression analysis. We measured height and weight and calculated body mass index (BMI) z scores for 96 children (3–10 years of age). We measured motor skills using the Movement Assessment Battery for Children-2nd edition (MABC-2), and we measured PA levels through accelerometry. Children with more time in moderate and moderate-to-vigorous PA had higher Total motor skill scores on the MABC-2. Further, children with higher moderate PA levels had higher Balance scores and those with moderate-to-vigorous PA demonstrated higher Aiming and Catching scores. Among children with healthier BMIs, more time spent in PA, regardless of intensity, was related to higher Aiming and Catching scores. Among children with BMI scores suggestive of overweight/obesity, both moderate and moderate-to-vigorous PA were positively related to Balance scores. In conclusion, while BMI z scores were not directly related to motor skills, PA levels were positively related to motor skills, and weight status mediated the relationship between PA and specific components of motor skills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: While studies to date have shown that children and adolescents who meet the current physical activity (PA) recommendations and maintain a healthy body weight demonstrate significantly lower cardiometabolic risk, there are some studies that suggest that the relationship between PA and metabolic risk may be mediated by adiposity. The aim of the present study was to examine variation in clustered metabolic risk (cMetS) in adolescents classified as not overweight/active (NOA), not overweight/not active (NONA), overweight/active (OA), and overweight/not active (ONA). Methods: The sample included adolescent participants ( n = 875; 12-17 years) of the 2007-2012 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). The cMetS score included triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, fasting plasma glucose, and mean arterial pressure. Age- and sex-specific body mass index (BMI) percentiles were utilized; overweight was defined as BMI percentile ≥85th. Activity data included self-reported frequency of moderate-to-vigorous PA. Adolescents reporting ≥60 min/day of PA were considered 'active.' General linear models, adjusted for age, sex, and race-ethnicity, were used. A 6-year fasting sample weight was applied to the analyses to ensure representativeness of the data. Results: The cMetS scores were significantly ( P < 0.05) higher in OA and ONA adolescents compared to NOA (β = 1.08 and β = 1.57, respectively). In ONA males, cMetS was significantly ( P < 0.01) higher compared to NOA males. In OA and ONA females, cMetS scores were significantly higher compared to the referent group ( P < 0.01 for both). Conclusions: The cMetS scores were increased in overweight adolescents compared to those who were not overweight, regardless of their reported activity level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: American Indian (AI) children suffer from high rates of obesity, obesity-related disease, obesogenic behaviors, and depressive symptoms. Objective: Study was designed to determine the associations between depressive symptoms and obesogenic behaviors in school-aged AI children in Oklahoma. Methods: Study design was cross-sectional. Depressive symptoms, beverage intake, fruit and vegetable intake, meal frequency, physical activity, and screen time were self-reported. Results: Mean participant age was 10.5 ± 1.6 years (n = 121); 64% were overweight/obese. Depressive symptoms were associated with dieting and screen time. Conclusion: AI chronic disease prevention efforts will benefit by including measures for depression and associations of obesogenic behaviors and depressive symptoms in treatment planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study is to examine childcare providers’ perceptions of their role in child health behaviors and attitudes pertaining to physical activity and nutrition. Part and full-time providers in a childcare center or family childcare home were interviewed (n = 30) in this cross-sectional, qualitative study. Transcripts were digitally recorded, transcribed, coded, and analyzed for general themes and sub-themes using a grounded theory by three investigators. All participants were women (100%), and most were employed full time (73%). Four general themes were identified with sub-themes: 1) teachers’ perceptions of their role; 2) teachers’ perceptions of lack of consistency between home and school; 3) teachers’ attitudes and beliefs about movement and; 4) teachers’ attitudes about food, feeding, and child nutrition. Providers emphasized their care-giving role and did not identify their role in shaping health behaviors. Engaging with parents is indispensable, but providers are often frustrated with parents’ double standards. They felt that movement was important, but that children were sufficiently active. Teachers encouraged eating, but acknowledged personal struggles with good nutrition. Empowering childcare teachers to serve as role models for all healthy behaviors may benefit child and teacher wellness. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background: Child-care centers are an integral part of life for many families with young children. American Indian children are at elevated health risk because of higher levels of obesity and associated health behaviors. Objective: Our aim was to assess the child-care environment and children's physical activity (PA) and dietary intake in young children attending tribally affiliated child care. Design: We conducted a cross-sectional study. Participants/setting: Participants were from 11 tribally affiliated child-care centers across Oklahoma and included 82 children aged 3 to 5 years old. Main outcome measures: Classroom observations were conducted using the Environmental and Policy Assessment Observation to measure PA and nutrition environments. Children wore an ActiGraph GT3X accelerometer and lunchtime plate waste was observed. Statistical analyses: Descriptive statistics, including mean±standard deviation and frequencies, were calculated for the children's behaviors and environment. Results: The total environment score was 23.9±5.2 (maximum=43). The nutrition score was 12.5±3.1 (maximum=21). The PA score was 11.7±2.2 (maximum=22). The participants were 3.8±0.1 years old, 55% were male, 67% were American Indian, and 38% were overweight or obese. Accelerometers were worn for 5.9±1.7 hours, excluding naptime. Children accumulated 4.3±2.2 min/h of moderate to vigorous PA, 4,294±1,883 steps/day, and 12.1±3.7 steps/min. At lunch, children were served 510±241 kcal, and consumed 387±239 kcal. Lunches consisted of 47% carbohydrate, 20% protein, and 33% fat. Total number of F/V served was 2.9±1.9 and consumed was 2.3±1.8, while whole grains served and consumed were 0.3±0.4 and 0.2±0.4, respectively, and lean proteins served and consumed were 0.3±0.4 and 0.2±0.4, respectively. Conclusions: This study describes obesogenic aspects of the child-care environment and identifies areas for improvement. Children did not accumulate adequate PA or consume calories or fat excessively. Children consumed multiple F/V; however, more whole grains and lean proteins could be provided. Future research might investigate how the healthfulness of the child-care environment can be improved by counseling providers on nutrition and PA strategies to prevent obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Review 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.Methods: Article 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.Results: All 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).Conclusion: Summarizing 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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

American Indian (AI) children have a combined overweight and obesity prevalence of 53 %. Behaviors that contribute to obesity, such as sugar sweetened beverage (SSB) intake and time spent in physical activity (PA), have been poorly explored in this population. The purpose of this study is to report body mass index (BMI), SSB intake, and time spent in PA of 7-to-13-year-old AI children who reside in rural and urban areas in Oklahoma. Cross-sectional survey study. Self-reported SSB intake in the last month, and time spent in PA were collected via questionnaires. Height and weight were professionally measured. The sample included 124 7-to-13-year-old AI children who attended a diabetes prevention summer camp in 2013. BMI percentile, overweight and obesity prevalence, SSB intake, time spent in PA, and number of participants meeting the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans. Descriptive characteristics for BMI percentile, overweight and obesity, SSB intake, time spent in PA, and meeting PA recommendations were calculated using means, standard deviations, and frequencies. Independent t test and Chi square analyses were used to test for gender differences. Participants were 10.2 ± 1.5 years old and 57 % female. Sixty-three percent were overweight or obese. Children consumed 309 ± 309 kcal/day of SSB and spent 4.4 ± 3.8 h per week in moderate-to-vigorous PA. Approximately 32 % met the 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans. No gender differences were observed. The prevalence of overweight and obesity was higher than previously reported in a similar population, and higher than that of US children in the general population. SSB intake and physical activity levels were also found to be higher in this group than in the general population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The purpose of this study was to test a conceptual model of proximal (home) and distal (neighborhood) environmental correlates of adolescent obesity. Methods This was a descriptive, cross-sectional study, using the 2007 National Survey of Children's Health, of 39,542 children aged 11-17 years. Structural equation modeling was used to test the fit of the model, identify direct and indirect effects of the proximal and distal environmental correlates, and determine reliabilities for latent constructs (Access to Physical Activity, Neighborhood Conditions, Social Capital Home Sedentary Behavior, and Physical Activity). Results The model fitted the data well (Root Mean Square Standard Error of Approximation: .038 (90% confidence interval .038-.039), Comparative Fit Index: .950, and Tucker-Lewis Index: .934). Access to Physical Activity, Social Capital, Home Sedentary Behavior, and Physical Activity had direct effects on obesity (−.026, p = .001; .061, p < .001; .110, p < .001; and −.119, p < .001, respectively). Neighborhood Condition had indirect effects on obesity through Access to Physical Activity, Social Capital, and Home Sedentary Behavior (−.001, p = .009; .032, p < .001; and .044, p < .001, respectively). Access to Physical Activity had indirect effects on obesity through Physical Activity, Social Capital, and Home Sedentary Behavior (−.013, p < .001; −.005, p < .001; and −.005, p = .003, respectively). Home Sedentary Behavior had indirect effect on obesity through Physical Activity (.052, p <.001). Conclusions Results of this model fit to the U. S. population-based data suggest that interventions should target not only sedentary behavior and physical activity but also parent perceptions of safety, access to physical activity, and the neighborhood condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The purpose of the current study was to determine the obesogenic practices in all-day child-care centers caring for preschool-aged children. This study used a cross-sectional, self-reported survey mailed to centers across Oklahoma (n=314). Frequency of responses and χ2 were calculated comparing region and star rating. Items where the majority of centers frequently report best practices include: daily fruits served (76%), daily nonfried vegetables served (71%), rarely/never served sugary drinks (92%), rarely/never used food to encourage good behaviors (88%), staff join children at table most of the time (81%), staff rarely eat different foods in view of children (69%), visible self-serve or request availability of water (93%), regular informal communication about healthy eating (86%), opportunities for outdoor play (95%), not withholding activity for punishment (91%), accessible play equipment (59% to 80% for different types of equipment), and minimization of extended sitting time (78%). Practices where centers can improve include increasing variety of vegetables (18%), reducing frequency of high-fat meats served (74% serve more than once per week), increasing high-fiber and whole-grain foods (35% offer daily), serving style of “seconds” (28% help kids determine whether they are still hungry), nonfood holiday celebrations (44% use nonfood treats), having toys and books that encourage healthy eating (27%) and physical activity (25%) in all rooms in the center, a standard nutrition (21%) and physical education (50%) curriculum, and following a written physical activity policy (43%). Practitioners can use these data to develop benchmarks and interventions, as this was the first study to assess statewide obesogenic practices in child care. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Greater TV-viewing time is generally associated with unhealthy dietary behaviors; however, few studies have examined associations between TV-viewing time and composite measures of dietary quality. Most studies have focused on energy intake or intake of specific foods. But overall dietary quality is important to health and weight status. Purpose: To examine the relationship between TV-viewing time and dietary quality using a nationally representative U.S. sample. Methods: Participants in the 2003–2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys were included (analyses conducted in Fall 2011). Dietary quality was determined by Healthy Eating Index (HEI)–2005 calculated from two 24-hour recalls. TV-viewing time was categorized as lower (≤1 hour/day); moderate (2–3 hours/day); and higher (≥4 hours/day; referent). Multivariate linear regression models were used to estimate the TV-viewing time and HEI-2005, adjusted for BMI (percentile for children aged 2–18 years); age; ethnicity; physical activity; and total energy intake. Analyses were conducted separately for gender–age groups (preschool=aged 2–5 years [n=1423]; school-aged=6–11 years [n=1749], adolescent=aged 12–18 years [n=3343], and adult=aged ≥19 years [n=8222]). Results: Lower TV-viewing time was associated with higher HEI-2005 (i.e., healthier diet) for all gender and age groups. Compared with higher TV-viewing time, in each case, HEI-2005 was higher in groups with low TV-viewing time, ranging from 47.0–52.3 in ≤1 hour/day to 44.7–48.9 in ≥4 hours/day (all p<0.05). Conclusions: Less time spent watching TV was associated with better dietary quality in U.S. children and adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. Descriptive physical activity epidemiology of the U.S. population is critical for program development and resource allocation. The purpose of this project was to describe step-defined categories (as measured by accelerometer) of US. adults and to determine predictors of sedentary classification (<5000 steps/d). Design. The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHAIVES) is an annual nationally representative survey used to determine the health status of the US. populace. Setting. In-home interviews and physical examination components of NHANES. Participants. Overall, 4372 eligible adults wore accelerometers in the 2005-2006 NHANES; 628 were excluded, which yielded 3744 adults (of which 46.8% were men). Measures. Steps per day; body mass index (BMI,); demographic, household and behavioral variables. Analysis. Means and frequencies were calculated. Logistic regression was utilized to determine predictors of sedentary classification. Results. Overall, 36.1 % were sedentary (i.e., <5000 steps/d); 47.6% were low to somewhat active (5000-9999 steps/d); 16.3% were active to highly active (≥ 10,000 steps/d). Advancing age (odds ratio [OR], 1.95; confidence intervals [CIs], 1.78, 2.13), higher BMI (OR, 1.40; CIs, 1.23, 1.59), female sex (OR, 1.86; CIs, 1.46, 2.36), African-American versus European-American ethnicity (OR, 1.36; CIs, 1.13, 1.65), household income versus ≥ $45,000 (<$25,000: OR, 1.94; CIs, 1.40, 2.69; $25,000-$44,000: OR, 1.51; CIs, 1.23, 1.85), and current versus never smoker (OR, 1.53; CIs, 1.26, 1.86) variables had higher odds of sedentary classification. Usual daily occupational/domestic physical activity categories of standing/walking (OR, .51; CIs, .38, .69); lifting/climbing (OR, .26; CIs, .17, .38); and heavy loads/labor (OR, .16; CIs, .10, .26) had lower odds ofsedentary classification than sitting. Conclusions. Over one-third of the U.S. population was classified as sedentary by accelerometer-determined steps per day, and several characteristics predicted sedentary classification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To (1) determine socio-demographic characteristics associated with a TV in the bedroom (BTV) and (2) examine relationship of BTV, independent of total viewing time, with social and behavioral characteristics. Methods: Children 6–17years from the 2007 US National Survey of Children''s Health were included (n =48,687). BTV, daily TV viewing time, demographic, behavioral and social outcomes (community involvement, social skills, health habits and status, and family) were examined using logistic regression, and adjusted for total viewing time. Results: Overall prevalence of BTV was 49.3% in American children. Older age, non-Hispanic Black (71.3%), Hispanics (56.3%), higher level of poverty (>56.2%), non two-parent biological family structure (>62.6%), Midwest (47.1%), Northeast (46.7%), South Atlantic (56.4%) and South Central (59.8%) region of the country were associated with higher odds of BTV. Female gender (52.7%) and residence in Alaska (33.0%) were associated with lower prevalence of BTV. BTV was associated with higher prevalence of exhibiting problematic social behaviors (29%) and overweight status (44%). BTV was significantly associated with lower prevalence of regular family meals (13%), engagement in school (16%), participation in extracurricular activities (31%), regularly sleeping enough (20%), and participation in community service (25%) after adjustment for total viewing time. Conclusions: BTV appears associated with more social and behavioral indices than previously reported, in addition to total viewing time. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective and Participants: At 2 Arizona State University (ASU) campuses, the authors measured student activity and distance walked on campus, as well as student-reported walkability around the student union. Methods: Students from ASU-Polytechnic (n = 20, 33% male) and ASU-Tempe (n = 20, 60% male) recorded distance walked on campus and wore physical activity monitors for 5 days. Results: Polytechnic students spent an average of 36.9 minutes in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity each week; Tempe students spent 69.5 minutes (p < .001). At Polytechnic, students walked an average of 7,674 steps per weekday; at Tempe, 11,294 steps (p = .003). Female students at Polytechnic walked an average of 1.3 km/d; at Tempe, 4.3 km/d (p < .001). At Polytechnic, men walked an average of 1.4 km/d; at Tempe, 3.1 km/d (p = .03). Tempe students rated campus walk-ability as very good, whereas Polytechnic students rated it fair (p < .001). Conclusions: Students at both campuses met activity recommendations; noted differences may be attributed to the built environment's contribution to walkability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers a report on actigraph accelerometer interinstrument reliability during free-living in adults. The section aims to advance the science of accelerometry by directly examining these unexplored research questions. It evaluated the right hip and left hip instrument reliability of raw outputs of total activity counts and steps, and derived outputs of time spent in sedentary, light, moderate, vigorous, and combined moderate-to-vigorous physical activity intensities during a twenty-four hours of free-living.

Copyright of Applied Physiology, Nutrition & Metabolism is the property of Canadian Science Publishing and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The article presents a study which assesses the comparison between Kenz Lifecorder EX and ActiGraph Accelerometers in 10-year old children in the U.S. It was noted than Kenz Lifecorder EX offers feasible monitor alternative to the commonly used Actigraph. The instrument was used to identify the free-living conditions with regard to children's steps taken and time in light-intensity physical activity (PA) and moderate to vigorous PA. ActiGraph was used for data collection and determines the accelerations which are converted into activity count values of children involved in the health survey. Researchers concluded that children should consider matching time-sampling intervals between monitors or using multiple monitors sampling at both typical and time-matched sampling intervals.

Purpose. To determine the biking suitability (i.e., bikeability) of and prevalence of biking in 14 elementary schools representing two extremes of bused students (2.4% vs. 53.6%). Methods. Street segments (within 0.25-mile radius of school) were scored for bikeability. Bikes in racks per school student population established biking prevalence. Mann-Whitney U-test compared bikeability and prevalence of biking between groups. Results. A total of 12.5 ± 2.2 streets per school were assessed. Thirteen schools scored very good (<3.0) and one scored fair (4.0–4.9). Median bikeability score was 0.69 for the low-busing schools and 0.53 for the high-busing schools (nonsignificant). Median biking prevalence was 3.1% in the low-busing schools and 1.3% in the high-busing schools (p < .05). Conclusion. Streets surrounding schools were adequate for biking. Biking prevalence was significantly higher in low-busing schools but was relatively low in both low- and high-busing schools. Other factors, including intraindividual, social, school, and community, likely contribute to choice of biking to school. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Objective: Objective To assess the relationship between moderate intensity lifestyle activity (LA) and cardiometabolic health using accelerometer data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2005–2006. Methods: One thousand three hundred and seventy-one adults (50% men; 71% non-Hispanic white) provided valid data to quantify time in LA [760–2019 counts per minute (CPM)] and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA; ≥2020 CPM). Associations between LA [minutes per day (min/day); steps per day (steps/day)], and cardiometabolic risk factors [triglycerides, HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C), blood pressure, glucose, waist circumference], metabolic syndrome, self-reported hypertension and diabetes were investigated using logistic regression. Analyses were adjusted for age, gender, race/ethnicity, and MVPA categories. Results: Greater time in LA (min/day), independent from MVPA, was associated with lower odds of elevated triglycerides (OR,95% CI per 30 LA minutes: 0.89,0.83–0.97), low HDL-C (0.87,0.83–0.92), elevated waist circumference (0.88,0.83–0.94), metabolic syndrome (0.87,0.80–0.96), and diabetes (0.67,0.55–0.82). The same cardiometabolic risk factors were also significantly associated with LA steps/day. No significant association was found between LA (min/day or steps/day) and glucose or blood pressure. Conclusion: Accumulation of time or steps in LA is independently related to lower odds for certain cardiometabolic risk factors. Research should consider the effects of increasing LA, which could influence future physical activity recommendations. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Objective : Preliminary comparison of cyclists and motorists on: (1) distance lived from campus and, (2) the impact of transportation mode on physical activity. Methods : A purposive sample of students (n =50; cyclists=26, motorists=24) living <5 miles from Arizona State University campus wore an accelerometer and completed a travel log for two on-campus days during fall 2005–spring 2006. Residence distance to campus was calculated by geocoded addresses (n =45; cyclists=23 vs. motorists=22). Final outcome variables were: distance lived from campus, accelerometer time moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, steps/day, total time moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (logged minutes cycling+accelerometer-derived moderate-to-vigorous physical activity), and minutes total active commuting (logged walking+cycling). Results : Groups were significantly different for: distance lived from campus (cyclists=0.6±0.6 vs. motorists=2.0±1.1 miles; p <0.000); steps/day (cyclists=11,051±4295 vs. motorists=9174±3319; p =0.046); total time moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (cyclists=85.7±37.0 vs. motorists=50.3±23.8 minutes; p <0.001); minutes in motorized transport (cyclists=24.9±27.5 vs. motorists=61.6±32.9; p <0.001); and total active transport (cyclists=59.4±32.4 vs. motorists=29.5±20.0; p <0.001). Conclusion : Among students living within 5 miles of campus, cyclists lived relatively closer to campus, accumulated more minutes of physical activity, and spent more time in active transportation than students who used motorized means. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Background: Although school-based behavioral interventions for increasing physical activity (PA) in children and adolescents have been conducted, little evidence suggests that these curriculum-based approaches lead to increases in overall activity outside of program days. The overall goal of the “Active by Choice Today” (ACT) trial is to expand the body of knowledge concerning the factors that influence long-term increases in PA in underserved adolescents (low socioeconmic status, minorities) during their middle school years. Design and setting: An overview of the ACT study design, theoretical framework, process evaluation, and primary hypotheses is presented. The trial involves twenty-four middle schools (1560 6th graders) in South Carolina that are randomly assigned to one of two after-school programs (motivational and life skills intervention, or general health education). Intervention: The intervention integrates constructs from Self-Determination and Social Cognitive Theories to enhance intrinsic motivation and behavioral skills for PA. The intervention targets skill development for PA outside of program days and the after-school program social environment (autonomy, choice, participation, belongingness, fun, enjoyment, support) is designed to positively impact cognitive mediators (self-efficacy, perceived competence), and motivational orientation (intrinsic motivation, commitment, positive self-concept). Main hypotheses/outcomes: It is hypothesized that the 17-week motivational and life skills intervention will lead to greater increases in moderate-to-vigorous PA (based on 7-day accelerometry estimates) at post-intervention as compared to the general health education program. Conclusions: Implications of this innovative school-based trial are discussed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The authors reflect on a study on the link of watching television and children's and adolescents' weight status with disease risks. They discuss the use of the term sedentary in describing behaviors that do not meet the level of energy consumption equal to moderate physical activity. They tackle various mechanisms in which sedentary behaviors have negative effects on health such as the reduction of energy expenditure when watching television.

Early obesity prevention in key environments where young children spend substantial time, such as early care and education (ECE) is essential. Children are not eating adequate amounts of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and nutrients, or getting sufficient physical activity in ECE. Family Child Care Homes (FCCH) are licensed home-based ECEs. Few studies have examined nutrition and physical activity (PA) in FCCHs. Objective was to determine the nutrition and PA practices and policies in FCCH. Cross-sectional study with self-reported practices and policies conducted in Oklahoma from October 2017 to November 2018. Forty-nine providers (44.2 ± 14.2 years, 100% women) participated. FCCH programs supervised 9.7 ± 4.2 children and had been in business for 10.8 ± 9.6 years (range 0.25-40 years). Providers spent 2.8 ± 6.2 hours/week preparing meals. Many (68.8%) providers had a degree in early childhood education or development. The majority prepared meals after children arrive (70%) and before children arrived (54%). Baking (98%) and slow cooker (70%) were the most common food preparation methods. Almost all (91.8%) believed the food program enhanced dietary quality for children. Frequencies of providers meeting all best practices in NAPSACC domains were foods provided (4.3%), beverages provided (2.2%), feeding environment (0%), feeding practices (40%), menus and variety (43.8%), nutrition education and professional development (4.3%), nutrition policy (20.8%), time provided for PA (0%), outdoor play environment (2.4%), daily PA practices (9.8%), PA education and professional development (6.4%), and PA policies (12.8%). Few FCCH providers meet all best practices in nutrition and PA domains. Understanding current practices and procedures is necessary for intervention development and technical assistance training to meet FCCH provider needs and enhance ECE program quality. 2017-68001-26355. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]