133 results on '"Finch, Meghan"'
Search Results
102. A randomised controlled trial of an intervention to facilitate the implementation of healthy eating and physical activity policies and practices in childcare services
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Jones, Jannah, primary, Wolfenden, Luke, additional, Wyse, Rebecca, additional, Finch, Meghan, additional, Yoong, Sze Lin, additional, Dodds, Pennie, additional, Pond, Nicole, additional, Gillham, Karen, additional, Freund, Megan, additional, McElduff, Patrick, additional, Wye, Paula, additional, and Wiggers, John, additional
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- 2014
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103. An implementation intervention to encourage healthy eating in centre-based child-care services: impact of the Good for Kids Good for Life programme
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Bell, A Colin, primary, Davies, Lynda, additional, Finch, Meghan, additional, Wolfenden, Luke, additional, Francis, J Lynn, additional, Sutherland, Rachel, additional, and Wiggers, John, additional
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- 2014
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104. A theory-based evaluation of a dissemination intervention to improve childcare cooks' intentions to implement nutritional guidelines on their menus.
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Sze Lin Yoong, Jones, Jannah, Marshall, Josephine, Wiggers, John, Seward, Kirsty, Finch, Meghan, Fielding, Alison, Wolfenden, Luke, and Yoong, Sze Lin
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CHILD care ,CHILD psychology ,NUTRITION ,GUIDELINES ,CHILD nutrition ,COMMUNICATION ,HEALTH promotion ,INTENTION ,NUTRITIONAL requirements ,NUTRITION policy ,MENU planning ,EVALUATION of human services programs - Abstract
Background: Childcare services represent a key setting to implement nutritional interventions to support the development of healthy eating behaviours in young children. Childcare-specific nutritional guidelines outlining recommendations for provision of food in care have been developed. Despite this, research suggests that few childcare services currently implement these guidelines. This study aimed to examine the impact of providing printed educational materials on childcare service cooks' intentions to use nutritional guidelines and provide fruit and vegetables on their menu.Findings: A randomised controlled trial was conducted with 77 childcare services (38 control and 39 intervention). Intervention service cooks were mailed a two-page educational material together with a menu planning checklist. Intervention development and evaluation was guided by the theory of planned behaviour. Outcome data assessing intentions to use nutritional guidelines and serves of fruit and vegetables provided on menus (primary outcomes) as well as secondary outcomes (attitudes, behavioural regulation and social norms) were collected via a telephone interview with cooks. Relative to the comparison group, cooks in the intervention arm had significantly higher intentions to use the guidelines (p value 0.0005), accompanied by significant changes in perceived behavioural control (p value 0.0008) and attitudes (p value 0.0071). No significant difference in serves of fruit (p value 0.7278) and vegetables (p value 0.0573) was observed.Conclusions: The use of educational materials can improve childcare service cooks' intentions to use nutritional guidelines; however, as a standalone strategy, it may not improve provision of food on menus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]- Published
- 2016
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105. An implementation intervention to encourage healthy eating in centre-based child-care services: impact of the Good for Kids Good for Life programme.
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Bell, A Colin, Davies, Lynda, Finch, Meghan, Wolfenden, Luke, Francis, J Lynn, Sutherland, Rachel, and Wiggers, John
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CHILD care services ,HEALTH programs ,CHILD nutrition ,MENUS ,COMPARATIVE studies - Abstract
ObjectiveTo determine the impact of an implementation intervention designed to introduce policies and practices supportive of healthy eating in centre-based child-care services. Intervention strategies included staff training, resources, incentives, follow-up support, and performance monitoring and feedback.DesignA quasi-experimental design was used to assess change over 20 months in healthy eating policy and practice in intervention and comparison child-care services.SettingThe Hunter New England (HNE) region of New South Wales (NSW), Australia.SubjectsAll centre-based child-care services (n 287) in the intervention region (HNE) were invited and 240 (91 % response rate) participated. Two hundred and ninety-six services in the rest of NSW were randomly selected as a comparison region and 191 participated (76 % response rate). A sub-analysis was conducted on those services that provided children food (n 196 at baseline and n 190 at follow-up). Ninety-six provided menus for analysis at baseline (HNE, n 36; NSW, n 50) and 102 provided menus at follow-up (HNE, n 50; NSW, n 52).ResultsServices in the intervention region were significantly more likely to provide only plain milk and water for children (P = 0·018) and to engage parents in nutrition policy or programmes (P = 0·002). They were also more likely (P = 0·056) to have nutrition policy on home packed food. In addition, menus of services that provided lunch were significantly more likely to comply with healthy eating guidelines for sweetened drinks (P < 0·001), fruit (P < 0·001) and vegetables (P = 0·01).ConclusionsAn implementation intervention was able to modify policy and practice in a large number of child-care services so that they were more supportive of healthy eating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2015
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106. A pragmatic randomised controlled trial of an implementation intervention to increase healthy eating and physical activity-promoting policies, and practices in centre-based childcare services: study protocol.
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Finch, Meghan, Sze Lin Yoong, Thomson, Rebecca J., Seward, Kirsty, Cooney, Mairead, Jones, Jannah, Fielding, Alison, Wiggers, John, Gillham, Karen, and Wolfenden, Luke
- Abstract
Background: Promotion of healthy eating and physical activity in early childhood is recommended as a global chronic disease prevention strategy. Centre-based childcare services represent a promising setting to provide children with opportunities to improve healthy eating and physical activity. Evidence to inform implementation of childcare obesity prevention guidelines into routine practice in childcare, however, is lacking. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of an intervention, delivered to childcare staff, aiming to increasing service implementation of healthy eating and physical activity-promoting policies and practices. Methods and analysis: A pragmatic parallel group randomised controlled trial will be undertaken with 165 childcare services in the Hunter New England region of New South Wales, Australia. Services will be randomised to receive either a 10-month evidence-based performance review intervention with other resources to support practice change, or to a waitlist control group. The primary trial outcome is the proportion of services implementing all of the following recommended healthy eating and physical activity promoting practices: written nutrition, physical activity and small screen recreation policies; providing information to families regarding healthy eating (including breastfeeding), physical activity and small screen time; providing twice weekly healthy eating learning experiences to children; providing water and only plain milk to children; providing fundamental movement skills activities for children every day; and limiting and using electronic screen time more for educational purposes and learning experiences. Effectiveness will be assessed using a telephone interview of practice implementation with childcare staff at baseline and 12 months following baseline. Ethics and dissemination: The study was approved by the Hunter New England Human Research Ethics Committee and the University of Newcastle Human Research Ethics Committee. Study findings will be disseminated widely through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations. Trial registration number: Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12614000972628. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2015
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107. Additional file 1: of Mechanisms of implementing public health interventions: a pooled causal mediation analysis of randomised trials
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Hopin Lee, Hall, Alix, Nathan, Nicole, Reilly, Kathryn, Seward, Kirsty, Williams, Christopher, Serene Yoong, Finch, Meghan, Wiggers, John, and Wolfenden, Luke
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education ,3. Good health - Abstract
Cochrane Risk of Bias Assessment. (DOCX 110Â kb)
108. Additional file 4: of Mechanisms of implementing public health interventions: a pooled causal mediation analysis of randomised trials
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Hopin Lee, Hall, Alix, Nathan, Nicole, Reilly, Kathryn, Seward, Kirsty, Williams, Christopher, Serene Yoong, Finch, Meghan, Wiggers, John, and Wolfenden, Luke
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3. Good health - Abstract
Sensitivity analysis using transformed TDF variables. (DOCX 60Â kb)
109. Additional file 4: of Mechanisms of implementing public health interventions: a pooled causal mediation analysis of randomised trials
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Hopin Lee, Hall, Alix, Nathan, Nicole, Reilly, Kathryn, Seward, Kirsty, Williams, Christopher, Serene Yoong, Finch, Meghan, Wiggers, John, and Wolfenden, Luke
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3. Good health - Abstract
Sensitivity analysis using transformed TDF variables. (DOCX 60Â kb)
110. Additional file 2: of Mechanisms of implementing public health interventions: a pooled causal mediation analysis of randomised trials
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Hopin Lee, Hall, Alix, Nathan, Nicole, Reilly, Kathryn, Seward, Kirsty, Williams, Christopher, Serene Yoong, Finch, Meghan, Wiggers, John, and Wolfenden, Luke
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3. Good health - Abstract
School survey questions and modified questions. (DOCX 35Â kb)
111. Additional file 3: of Mechanisms of implementing public health interventions: a pooled causal mediation analysis of randomised trials
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Hopin Lee, Hall, Alix, Nathan, Nicole, Reilly, Kathryn, Seward, Kirsty, Williams, Christopher, Serene Yoong, Finch, Meghan, Wiggers, John, and Wolfenden, Luke
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3. Good health - Abstract
Sensitivity analysis using multiple imputation to replace missing values. (DOCX 17Â kb)
112. Additional file 2: of Mechanisms of implementing public health interventions: a pooled causal mediation analysis of randomised trials
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Hopin Lee, Hall, Alix, Nathan, Nicole, Reilly, Kathryn, Seward, Kirsty, Williams, Christopher, Serene Yoong, Finch, Meghan, Wiggers, John, and Wolfenden, Luke
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3. Good health - Abstract
School survey questions and modified questions. (DOCX 35Â kb)
113. Additional file 3: of Mechanisms of implementing public health interventions: a pooled causal mediation analysis of randomised trials
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Hopin Lee, Hall, Alix, Nathan, Nicole, Reilly, Kathryn, Seward, Kirsty, Williams, Christopher, Serene Yoong, Finch, Meghan, Wiggers, John, and Wolfenden, Luke
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3. Good health - Abstract
Sensitivity analysis using multiple imputation to replace missing values. (DOCX 17Â kb)
114. Additional file 1: of Mechanisms of implementing public health interventions: a pooled causal mediation analysis of randomised trials
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Hopin Lee, Hall, Alix, Nathan, Nicole, Reilly, Kathryn, Seward, Kirsty, Williams, Christopher, Serene Yoong, Finch, Meghan, Wiggers, John, and Wolfenden, Luke
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education ,3. Good health - Abstract
Cochrane Risk of Bias Assessment. (DOCX 110Â kb)
115. Editorial Introduction: People.
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Finch, Meghan
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TECHNOLOGY ,UNITED States elections - Abstract
An introduction is presented in which the editor discusses various reports within the issue on topics including involvement of people with technology, federal elections through the use of social media website Twitter, and ways of building a data catalog.
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- 2016
116. Using Zapier with Trello for Electronic Resources Troubleshooting Workflow.
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Finch, Meghan
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ELECTRONIC information resources management ,DEBUGGING ,WORKFLOW management ,COMPUTER software ,ELECTRONIC data processing - Abstract
Troubleshooting access problems is an important part of the electronic resources management workflow. This article discusses an opportunity to streamline and track troubleshooting using two web-based services: Trello and Zapier. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2014
117. Describing the evidence-base for research engagement by health care providers and health care organisations: a scoping review.
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Yoong, Sze Lin, Bolsewicz, Katarzyna, Reilly, Kathryn, Williams, Christopher, Wolfenden, Luke, Grady, Alice, Kingsland, Melanie, Finch, Meghan, and Wiggers, John
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MEDICAL personnel , *MEDICAL care , *GREY literature , *PUBLIC investments , *MENTAL work - Abstract
Background: Having a research-engaged health and medical workforce is associated with improvements in clinical outcomes for patients. As such, there has been significant government investment internationally to support health care organisations and services to increase staff engagement with research. Objectives: This scoping review sought to provide an overview of the literature describing strategies employed to increase research engagement by health care providers and organisations, and to undertake a qualitative analysis to generate a list of research engagement strategies. Methods: A scoping review using systematic search strategies was undertaken to locate peer-review publications and grey literature related to research engagement by health care providers and organisations. Research engagement was defined as a 'deliberate set of intellectual and practical activities undertaken by health care staff and organisations to conduct research'. A database search of electronic records was performed with no limit on publication date. Publications were included regardless of study type (excluding systematic reviews) and categorised as either databased (presenting data or new analysis of existing data) and non-databased (no new data or analyses). Databased publications were further classified according to study type, study design and setting. A qualitative synthesis using a Framework Approach was undertaken with all studies that described a strategy to improve research engagement. Results: A total of 152 publications were included in this study with 54% categorised as non-databased. Of the databased articles, the majority (72%) were descriptive studies describing prevalence of correlates of research engagement, 17 (25%) described intervention studies where only two were controlled studies. The following research engagement strategies were identified: i) dual skilled team/staff, ii) resources or physical infrastructure, iii) incentives, iv) leadership support of research, v) education/training, vi) networks, vii) forming partnerships or collaborations and viii) overall leadership structure of entity. Conclusions: The literature on research engagement is primarily opinion-based and descriptive in nature. To provide the evidence needed to inform strategies, this needs to progress beyond descriptive to more rigorous well-designed intervention research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2023
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118. Assessing the implementation of healthy eating and physical activity policies and practices in the family day care setting: A cross‐sectional study.
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Lum, Melanie, Grady, Alice, Falkiner, Maryann, Jones, Jannah, Finch, Meghan, Green, Sue, Herrmann, Vanessa, Hall, Alix, Yoong, Serene, and Trevena, Helen
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FOOD habits , *PHYSICAL activity , *FAMILY policy , *CROSS-sectional method , *OBESITY - Abstract
Issue addressed: While the family day care setting provides a unique opportunity to improve child health, few studies have assessed obesity prevention practices of this setting. This study aimed to examine the (a) prevalence of implementation of evidence‐based healthy eating and physical activity policies and practices among schemes (ie overarching governing agency) and educators in the family day care setting in Australia; and (b) associations between educator socio‐demographic characteristics and implementation of healthy eating and physical activity practices. Methods: Family day care schemes (n = 16) responsible for educators (n = 174) located in the Hunter New England region of NSW participated in a telephone survey in 2018, reporting their implementation of evidence‐based healthy eating and physical activity policies and practices. Linear mixed regression analyses were used to determine whether educator characteristics were associated with higher percentages of implementation. Results: Few schemes had comprehensive breastfeeding (0%) and screen time (19%) policies. However, the majority of educators (81%) communicated with families when lunchboxes were not consistent with guidelines. Educators implemented an average of 64.3% of practices assessed. Educators located in higher socioeconomic areas implemented a significantly higher percentage of practices than those in lower socioeconomic areas (P <.000). Educator years of experience was positively associated with percentage of implementation (P =.009). Conclusions: The implementation of obesity prevention policies and practices in the family day care setting is variable and associated with educator socio‐demographic characteristics. So what?: There is a need to support family day care schemes to improve their obesity prevention environments, particularly those related to policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2021
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119. Asian Americans: An Encyclopedia of Social, Cultural, Economic, and Political History.
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Finch, Meghan
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- 2015
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120. Menu planning practices in early childhood education and care - factors associated with menu compliance with sector dietary guidelines.
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Grady, Alice, Stacey, Fiona, Seward, Kirsty, Finch, Meghan, Jones, Jannah, and Yoong, Sze Lin
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MENU planning , *EARLY childhood education , *FOOD portions , *POISSON regression , *MENUS , *CHILD care , *MEDICAL protocols , *SOCIOECONOMIC factors , *RESEARCH funding , *RESIDENTIAL patterns , *FOOD service , *NUTRITION policy , *HEALTH promotion - Abstract
Issue Addressed: Despite recommendations, early childhood education and care services do not plan menus in accordance with sector dietary guidelines. This study aimed to examine the following among Australian long day care services: (a) menu planning practices; (b) prevalence of menu compliance with sector dietary guidelines; and (c) menu planning practices associated with higher menu compliance with sector dietary guidelines.Methods: Long day care services within Hunter New England, NSW participated in a pen and paper survey assessing menu planning practices and socio-demographic and service characteristics. Two-week menus were assessed for compliance with sector dietary guidelines, based on the number of servings of food groups and discretionary foods provided per child, per day.Results: Staff from 72 services completed the survey and 69 provided their menu. Results indicated the service cook was fully responsible for planning the menu in 43% of services, and 57% had received written support to assist with menu planning. Service menus were compliant with an average of 0.68 out of six food groups and discretionary foods. In poisson regression models, a shorter menu cycle length (P = .04) and the receipt of training opportunities to support menu planning (P < .01) were significantly associated with higher menu compliance.Conclusions: Menu compliance with sector dietary guidelines is low among participating long day care services. SO WHAT?: The implementation of practices such as shortening of the menu cycle and the provision of training opportunities may assist in the planning of menus that are more compliant with dietary guidelines in this setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]- Published
- 2020
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121. Implementation of continuous free play schedules in Australian childcare services: A cross-sectional study.
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Jones, Jannah, Wolfenden, Luke, Grady, Alice, Finch, Meghan, Bolsewicz, Katarzyna, Wedesweiler, Taya, and Yoong, Sze Lin
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CROSS-sectional method , *SCHEDULING , *PHYSICAL activity , *CHILD care , *PLAY environments , *PLAY , *EXERCISE , *RESEARCH funding , *RESIDENTIAL patterns - Abstract
Issue Addressed: Modifying the scheduling of physical activity opportunities to provide children with more frequent opportunities for outdoor free play has been demonstrated to increase child physical activity while in care. The primary aim of this study was to describe the implementation of continuous free play schedules to allow children to access outdoor play areas, consistent with sector guidelines in a national sample of Australian childcare services. Secondary aims were to investigate the associations between the implementation of such schedules and service characteristics, and assess the perceived barriers and enablers to implementation.Methods: A cross-sectional study was undertaken with a random sample of 326 centre-based childcare services located across Australia. Childcare service characteristics, continuous free play scheduling and perceived barriers and enablers to implementation were assessed via a survey administered to service managers online or via telephone.Results: A total of 203 service managers (62%) reported implementing a continuous free play schedule, for three periods of 126 minutes per period, each day on average. Service type (long day care services), size (services with higher numbers of child enrolments [≥80 children]) and socio-economic area (services located in lower socio-economic areas) were associated with the implementation of a continuous free play schedule. The most prevalent barriers to implementation included insufficient staff to ensure adequate supervision of children (69%) and service layout being unsuitable (65%), while the most prevalent enablers included advice on how to overcome staffing or supervision issues (89%) and to re-orientate the service layout (54%).Conclusions: There is scope to support the implementation of continuous free play schedules consistent with childcare sector guidelines. SO WHAT?: Future intervention research that targets the reported barriers and enablers to implementation is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]- Published
- 2020
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122. Interventions that Address Institutional Child Maltreatment: An Evidence and Gap Map
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Taoran Yang, Sangita Chakraborty, Ludvig Bjørndal, David A Taylor, Bianca Albers, Meghan Finch, Robyn Mildon, Rebecca Schachtman, Caroline Fiennes, Aron Shlonsky, Rebecca Featherston, University of Zurich, and Finch, Meghan
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Child abuse ,medicine.medical_specialty ,Sociology and Political Science ,Population ,Psychological intervention ,11549 Institute of Implementation Science in Health Care ,Social Sciences ,610 Medicine & health ,Intervention ,Evidence gap map ,3300 General Social Sciences ,03 medical and health sciences ,0302 clinical medicine ,medicine ,030212 general & internal medicine ,education ,General Psychology ,Child maltreatment ,education.field_of_study ,Sexual abuse ,05 social sciences ,050301 education ,General Social Sciences ,Critical appraisal ,Systematic review ,Foster care ,Physical abuse ,Family medicine ,Psychology ,0503 education ,Social Sciences (miscellaneous) - Abstract
Background Child maltreatment has serious short and long‐term negative impacts for those experiencing it. Child maltreatment occurring in institutional settings has recently received substantial attention. However, evidence about the effectiveness of interventions that prevent, disclose, respond to, or treat maltreatment that has occurred in these environments is fragmented and can be difficult to access. This evidence and gap map (EGM) collates this research evidence. It was developed as a resource for stakeholders operating in the child health, welfare and protection sectors, including practitioners, organisational leaders, policy developers and researchers, wanting to access high quality evidence on interventions addressing institutional child maltreatment. Objectives The objectives of this EGM were twofold: (a) To provide a structured and accessible collection of existing evidence from finalised and ongoing overviews of systematic reviews, systematic reviews and effectiveness studies of interventions addressing institutional child maltreatment—for those who work to fund, develop, implement and evaluate interventions aimed at ensuring children's safety in institutional settings; (b) to identify gaps in the available evidence on interventions addressing institutional child maltreatment—thereby helping to inform the research agendas of funders and other organisations. Search Methods A comprehensive search strategy identified relevant studies from published and grey literature, comprising: (1) 10 electronic academic databases; (2) five trial and systematic review registries; (3) nine organisational websites; (4) websites and reference lists of inquiry reports associated with seven international inquiries into child abuse and (4) the lists of included studies within systematic reviews identified by the search strategy. Members of this EGM's Subject Matter Experts group were also invited to forward relevant unpublished studies or grey literature. Selection Criteria The selection criteria were developed to identify finalised and ongoing overviews of reviews, systematic reviews and primary studies that reported on the effectiveness of interventions addressing child maltreatment (including sexual abuse, physical abuse, neglect and emotional abuse) within institutional settings. Eligible effectiveness study designs included: randomised controlled trials (RCTs), nonrandomised trials, controlled before‐and‐after studies and quasi‐experimental studies. Reviews were eligible if they reported a systematic literature search strategy. Data Collection and Analysis All screening, data extraction, coding and critical appraisals were undertaken by two or more reviewers working independently, with discrepancies resolved via consensus or by a third reviewer. The titles and abstracts of studies identified by the search strategy were screened, and each full text of potentially relevant studies was further assessed for inclusion. Key data were extracted from all included studies and reviews. This included information about: publication details (e.g., year, author, country), inclusion/exclusion criteria (for reviews), study design, institutional setting, target population, type of maltreatment, intervention type and outcomes. Critical appraisal of included systematic reviews was achieved using the AMSTAR 2 tool, and completed RCTs were assessed using the updated Cochrane Risk of Bias 2.0 tool. Main Results Number of studies The electronic database search yielded 6318 citations, and a further 2375 records were identified from additional sources. Following deduplication and title/abstract screening, 256 studies remained for full text review. A total of 73 eligible studies (reported across 84 publications) met the inclusion criteria, including: 11 systematic reviews (plus, one update); 62 primary studies (including, three protocols for primary studies). Study characteristics The studies were conducted across 18 countries, however more than half (52%) were undertaken in the United States. Overall, most studies evaluated curriculum‐based interventions delivered in educational settings, primarily aimed at the prevention of sexual abuse. Institutional setting: Most studies evaluated interventions in school or early learning environments (n = 8 systematic reviews; n = 58 primary studies). Far fewer studies examined other organisational settings. Out of home care (including foster care, residential care and orphanages), and social service organisations servicing children were minimally represented. No studies were identified where the primary setting was sports clubs, churches/religious organisations, summer/vacation camps, detention centres/juvenile justice settings, or primary/secondary health care facilities. Target population: Most interventions targeted children rather than adults (n = 7 systematic reviews; n = 47 primary studies) from the general population. Fewer studies included populations known to be at an increased risk, or those already exposed to maltreatment. Just over a third of the primary studies conducted an analysis to ascertain differences in the effect of an intervention between the genders. Intervention type: Prevention interventions were the most studied (n = 5 systematic reviews; n = 57 primary studies), with additional studies including prevention approaches alongside other intervention types. Fewer studies evaluated interventions targeting disclosure, institutional responses, or treatment interventions. Type of maltreatment: The vast majority of the studies assessed interventions solely addressing the sexual abuse of children (n = 8 systematic reviews; n = 45 primary studies). The remaining studies addressed other forms of maltreatment, including physical and emotional abuse, or neglect, either in combination or as a sole focus. Outcomes: Primary reported outcomes reflected the bias toward child targeted interventions. Outcome measures captured child wellbeing and knowledge outcomes, including measures of mental health, children's knowledge retention and/or self‐protective skills. Measures of maltreatment disclosure or maltreatment occurrence/reoccurrence were less common, and all other outcome categories included in the EGM were minimally or not reported. A third of studies reported on some measure of implementation. Study quality The overall quality of the studies was low to moderate. Most systematic reviews were low‐quality (n = 10), with only one high quality review (and update) identified. Most completed RCTs had some concerns relating to the risk of bias (n = 30), and the remainder were considered to be at a high risk of bias (n = 19). Authors' Conclusions This EGM has highlighted a substantial need for more high quality studies that evaluate interventions across a broader range of institutional contexts and maltreatment types. The current evidence base does not represent countries with large populations and the greatest incidence of child maltreatment. Few studies focussed on perpetrators or the organisational environment. Further evidence gaps were identified for interventions relating to disclosure, organisational responses and treatment, and few studies assessed interventions targeting perpetrators' maltreatment behaviours, recidivism or desistence. Future studies should also include measure of programme implementation.
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- 2021
123. A cluster randomised trial to evaluate a physical activity intervention among 3-5 year old children attending long day care services: study protocol
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Finch Meghan, Wolfenden Luke, Morgan Philip J, Freund Megan, Wyse Rebecca, and Wiggers John
124. Learning health systems to implement chronic disease prevention programs: A novel framework and perspectives from an Australian health service.
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Wolfenden L, Wiggers J, Barnes C, Lane C, Groombridge D, Robertson K, Jones J, McCrabb S, Hodder RK, Shoesmith A, Hudson N, McCarthy N, Kingsland M, Doherty E, Princehorn E, Finch M, Nathan N, and Sutherland R
- Abstract
Background: Chronic diseases are a considerable burden to health systems, communities, and patients. Much of this burden, however, could be prevented if interventions effective in reducing chronic disease risks were routinely implemented., Aims: The aim of this paper is to discuss the role of public health agencies in preventing chronic disease through the application of learning health system (LHS) approaches to improve the implementation of evidence-based interventions., Materials and Methods: We draw on the literature and our experience operating a local LHS in Australia that has achieved rapid improvements in the implementation of chronic disease prevention interventions., Results: The proposed LHS framework has been adapted to be both implementation and chronic disease prevention focused. The framework describes both broad improvement processes, and the infrastructure and other support (pillars) recommended to support its core functions., Conclusion: The framework serves as a basis for further exploration of the potentially transformative role LHS's may have in addressing the chronic disease health crisis., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflicts of interest., (© 2024 The Author(s). Learning Health Systems published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of University of Michigan.)
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- 2024
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125. Barriers and facilitators to dissemination of non-communicable diseases research: a mixed studies systematic review.
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Renda A, Turon H, Lim M, Wolfenden L, McCrabb S, O'Connor SR, Finch M, Smith N, Goraya N, Harrison CL, Naughton S, Grady A, Hodder R, Reilly K, and Yoong S
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- Humans, Translational Research, Biomedical, Noncommunicable Diseases prevention & control, Information Dissemination
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Background: There is a large number of research studies about the prevention of non-communicable diseases (NCD), with findings taking several years to be translated into practice. One reason for this lack of translation is a limited understanding of how to best disseminate NCD research findings to user-groups in a way that is salient and useful. An understanding of barriers and facilitators to dissemination is key to informing the development of strategies to increase dissemination. Therefore, this review aims to identify and synthesise the barriers and facilitators to dissemination of NCD research findings., Methods: A mixed studies systematic review was performed following JBI (formerly known as Joanna Briggs Institute) methodology. The search included articles from January 2000 until May 2021. We conducted a comprehensive search of bibliographic and grey literature of five databases to identify eligible studies. Studies were included if they involved end-users of public health research that were decision-makers in their setting and examined barriers/facilitators to disseminating research findings. Two pairs of reviewers mapped data from included studies against the Framework of Knowledge Translation (FKT) and used a convergent approach to synthesise the data., Results: The database search yielded 27,192 reports. Following screening and full text review, 15 studies (ten qualitative, one quantitative and four mixed methods) were included. Studies were conducted in 12 mostly high-income countries, with a total of 871 participants. We identified 12 barriers and 14 facilitators mapped to five elements of the FKT. Barriers related to: (i) the user-group ( n = 3) such as not perceiving health as important and (ii) the dissemination strategies ( n = 3) such as lack of understanding of content of guidelines. Several facilitators related to dissemination strategies ( n = 5) such as using different channels of communication. Facilitators also related to the user-group ( n = 4) such as the user-groups' interest in health and research., Conclusion: Researchers and government organisations should consider these factors when identifying ways to disseminate research findings to decision-maker audiences. Future research should aim to build the evidence base on different strategies to overcome these barriers., Systematic Review Registration: The protocol of this review was deposited in Open Science Framework (https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/5QSGD)., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Renda, Turon, Lim, Wolfenden, McCrabb, O’Connor, Finch, Smith, Goraya, Harrison, Naughton, Grady, Hodder, Reilly and Yoong.)
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- 2024
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126. Dissemination of public health research evidence and guidelines to Australian Early Childhood Education and Care staff: Views about source, content and format.
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Finch M, Lum M, Yoong SL, Hodder RK, Grady A, and Wolfenden L
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- Humans, Cross-Sectional Studies, Australia, Child, Preschool, Public Health, Evidence-Based Practice, Female, Male, Information Dissemination methods
- Abstract
Issue Addressed: Effective dissemination of public health research and evidence-based guidelines to Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) staff is critical for promoting research transfer and uptake and achieving positive outcomes for children., Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted during August 2021 to March 2022, with a sub-sample of Australian ECEC services participating in a larger survey completed online and via Computer-Assisted Telephone Interview. Survey items assessed: influential source for receiving research, type of content that would influence decisions to adopt research and preferred formats for receiving research., Results: Overall, 993 service managers or staff from 1984 (50.0%) invited and eligible services completed the larger survey. Of these, 463 randomly allocated services (46.7%) had staff complete the dissemination items. The Australian Children's Education and Care Quality Authority, ECEC agencies and Government Departments were most frequently selected as influential sources of research evidence. Staff were most interested in content providing evidence-based recommendations for future actions and descriptions of health issues addressed. Workshops or conferences and webinars were the preferred format for receiving research., Conclusions: Findings highlight the importance of tailoring dissemination strategies to meet ECEC staff needs and engaging influential sources to disseminate research evidence. SO WHAT?: Understanding dissemination preferences of ECEC staff is crucial for supporting uptake of evidence-based health promotion in this setting. By developing tailored strategies based on ECEC preferences, research transfer and evidence-based decision making can be supported more effectively. These findings contribute to bridging the evidence-practice gap and improving the quality of care and health outcomes for children in ECEC settings., (© 2023 The Authors. Health Promotion Journal of Australia published by John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd on behalf of Australian Health Promotion Association.)
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- 2024
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127. Supporting the next generation of prevention research leaders to conduct effective research-policy partnerships.
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Hill B, Rychetnik L, Finch M, Naughton S, Hall A, Kuswara K, Brown V, Harrison CL, and Skouteris H
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- Humans, Australia, Health Policy, Health Services Research
- Abstract
Successful research-policy partnerships rely on shared vision, dedicated investment, and mutual benefits. To ensure the ongoing value of chronic disease prevention research, and support research translation and impact, Australia needs funding, university, and policy systems that incentivise and support emerging leaders to drive effective partnerships., Competing Interests: All authors are members of CERI, a joint initiative between the Prevention Centre and several NHMRC CREs, established in June 2020 to enhance the profile and impact of chronic disease prevention in Australia.
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- 2024
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128. The Effectiveness of Strategies to Improve User Engagement With Digital Health Interventions Targeting Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Overweight and Obesity: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
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Grady A, Pearson N, Lamont H, Leigh L, Wolfenden L, Barnes C, Wyse R, Finch M, Mclaughlin M, Delaney T, Sutherland R, Hodder R, and Yoong SL
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- Humans, Obesity therapy, Exercise, Nutritional Status, Overweight therapy, Digital Health
- Abstract
Background: Digital health interventions (DHIs) are effective in improving poor nutrition, physical inactivity, overweight and obesity. There is evidence suggesting that the impact of DHIs may be enhanced by improving user engagement. However, little is known about the overall effectiveness of strategies on engagement with DHIs., Objective: This study aims to assess the overall effectiveness of strategies to improve engagement with DHIs targeting nutrition, physical activity, and overweight or obesity and explore associations between strategies and engagement outcomes. The secondary aim was to explore the impact of these strategies on health risk outcomes., Methods: The MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL, CENTRAL, Scopus, and Academic Source Complete databases were searched up to July 24, 2023. Eligible studies were randomized controlled trials that evaluated strategies to improve engagement with DHIs and reported on outcomes related to DHI engagement (use or user experience). Strategies were classified according to behavior change techniques (BCTs) and design features (eg, supplementary emails). Multiple-variable meta-analyses of the primary outcomes (usage and user experience) were undertaken to assess the overall effectiveness of strategies. Meta-regressions were conducted to assess associations between strategies and use and user experience outcomes. Synthesis of secondary outcomes followed the "Synthesis Without Meta-Analysis" guidelines. The methodological quality and evidence was assessed using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool, and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation tool respectively., Results: Overall, 54 studies (across 62 publications) were included. Pooled analysis found very low-certainty evidence of a small-to-moderate positive effect of the use of strategies to improve DHI use (standardized mean difference=0.33, 95% CI 0.20-0.46; P<.001) and very low-certainty evidence of a small-to-moderate positive effect on user experience (standardized mean difference=0.29, 95% CI 0.07-0.52; P=.01). A significant positive association was found between the BCTs social support (effect size [ES]=0.40, 95% CI 0.14-0.66; P<.001) and shaping knowledge (ES=0.39, 95% CI 0.03-0.74; P=.03) and DHI use. A significant positive association was found among the BCTs social support (ES=0.70, 95% CI 0.18-1.22; P=.01), repetition and substitution (ES=0.29, 95% CI 0.05-0.53; P=.03), and natural consequences (ES=0.29, 95% CI 0.05-0.53; P=.02); the design features email (ES=0.29, 95% CI 0.05-0.53; P=.02) and SMS text messages (ES=0.34, 95% CI 0.11-0.57; P=.01); and DHI user experience. For secondary outcomes, 47% (7/15) of nutrition-related, 73% (24/33) of physical activity-related, and 41% (14/34) of overweight- and obesity-related outcomes reported an improvement in health outcomes., Conclusions: Although findings suggest that the use of strategies may improve engagement with DHIs targeting such health outcomes, the true effect is unknown because of the low quality of evidence. Future research exploring whether specific forms of social support, repetition and substitution, natural consequences, emails, and SMS text messages have a greater impact on DHI engagement is warranted., Trial Registration: PROSPERO CRD42018077333; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=77333., (©Alice Grady, Nicole Pearson, Hannah Lamont, Lucy Leigh, Luke Wolfenden, Courtney Barnes, Rebecca Wyse, Meghan Finch, Matthew Mclaughlin, Tessa Delaney, Rachel Sutherland, Rebecca Hodder, Sze Lin Yoong. Originally published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research (https://www.jmir.org), 19.12.2023.)
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- 2023
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129. Dissemination of public health research to prevent non-communicable diseases: a scoping review.
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Turon H, Wolfenden L, Finch M, McCrabb S, Naughton S, O'Connor SR, Renda A, Webb E, Doherty E, Howse E, Harrison CL, Love P, Smith N, Sutherland R, and Yoong SL
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- Humans, Public Health, Information Dissemination, Public Health Systems Research, Noncommunicable Diseases prevention & control, Health Communication
- Abstract
Background: Dissemination is a critical element of the knowledge translation pathway, and a necessary step to ensure research evidence is adopted and implemented by key end users in order to improve health outcomes. However, evidence-based guidance to inform dissemination activities in research is limited. This scoping review aimed to identify and describe the scientific literature examining strategies to disseminate public health evidence related to the prevention of non-communicable diseases., Methods: Medline, PsycInfo and EBSCO Search Ultimate were searched in May 2021 for studies published between January 2000 and the search date that reported on the dissemination of evidence to end users of public health evidence, within the context of the prevention of non-communicable diseases. Studies were synthesised according to the four components of Brownson and colleagues' Model for Dissemination of Research (source, message, channel and audience), as well as by study design., Results: Of the 107 included studies, only 14% (n = 15) directly tested dissemination strategies using experimental designs. The remainder primarily reported on dissemination preferences of different populations, or outcomes such as awareness, knowledge and intentions to adopt following evidence dissemination. Evidence related to diet, physical activity and/or obesity prevention was the most disseminated topic. Researchers were the source of disseminated evidence in over half the studies, and study findings/knowledge summaries were more frequently disseminated as the message compared to guidelines or an evidence-based program/intervention. A broad range of dissemination channels were utilised, although peer-reviewed publications/conferences and presentations/workshops predominated. Practitioners were the most commonly reported target audience., Conclusions: There is a significant gap in the peer reviewed literature, with few experimental studies published that analyse and evaluate the effect of different sources, messages and target audiences on the determinants of uptake of public health evidence for prevention. Such studies are important as they can help inform and improve the effectiveness of current and future dissemination practices in public health contexts., (© 2023. The Author(s).)
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- 2023
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130. A cluster randomised controlled trial of a secondary school intervention to reduce intake of sugar-sweetened beverages: Mid-intervention impact of switchURsip environmental strategies.
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Sutherland R, Ying Ooi J, Finch M, Yoong SL, Nathan N, Wrigley J, Reilly K, Janssen L, Wiggers J, and Wolfenden L
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- Adolescent, Beverages, Female, Humans, New South Wales, Schools, Students, Sugar-Sweetened Beverages
- Abstract
Issue Addressed: Secondary schools provide an opportune setting for interventions addressing excessive sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) intake in adolescence. This trial aimed to assess the impact of school environmental strategies, delivered as part of a broader intervention, among Year 7-9 students' SSB consumption., Methods: Between March and July 2018, we conducted a cluster randomised controlled trial with 862 students attending six secondary schools (3 intervention and 3 control) in New South Wales. The intervention targeted SSB availability, placement, promotion and pricing, and increased availability and promotion of water. Control schools followed their usual programmes. Primary outcomes included mean daily SSB consumption (millilitres) and mean daily percentage energy from SSB (kilojoules). Sub-group analysis explored primary outcomes for gender, school year level and frequency of canteen use., Results: Of the 2265 eligible students, 1092 (50.2%) provided active parental consent and 940 (86.0%) participated in baseline data collection. No significant differences were observed between groups at follow-up for mean daily SSBs consumed (-10.17 mL, CI: -24.78; 45.12, P = 0.57) or mean daily percentage energy from SSBs (-0.20%, CI: -0.87; 0.47, P = .56). Significant effects were observed among girls in intervention compared to girls in control schools for mean daily SSB consumption (-52.02 mL, CI 99.8; 94.14, P = .03) and mean daily percentage of energy from SSBs (-0.90%, CI: -1.82; 0.02, P = .05)., Conclusions: At 3-month mid-intervention evaluation, the intervention failed to impact on mean daily consumption and mean percentage energy from SSBs, overall. However, an intervention effect was observed in girls. The limited overall effect is likely due to inadequate intervention dose related to the short duration, limiting opportunities for schools to fully implement the environmental strategies. SO WHAT?: A longer intervention duration with additional implementation support to allow adequate time to embed the strategies within the school is recommended. Implementation support strategies would ensure staff are supported throughout the process., (© 2021 Australian Health Promotion Association.)
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- 2022
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131. Efficacy of a free-play intervention to increase physical activity during childcare: a randomized controlled trial.
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Wolfenden L, Jones J, Parmenter B, Razak LA, Wiggers J, Morgan PJ, Finch M, Sutherland R, Lecathelinais C, Clinton-McHarg T, Gillham K, and Yoong SL
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- Child, Child Health, Child, Preschool, Environment, Female, Humans, Male, Child Day Care Centers organization & administration, Exercise, Health Promotion organization & administration
- Abstract
The primary aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of a childcare-based intervention in increasing child physical activity by allowing children unrestricted access to outdoor areas for free-play when structured activity is not taking place. A randomized controlled trial was conducted in six childcare services. Intervention services provided children unrestricted access outdoors for active free-play, while control services provided their usual scheduled periods of outdoor play. Consent was obtained from 231 children. Child moderate to vigorous activity (MVPA), the primary trial outcome, was assessed via accelerometer at baseline and 3 months post baseline. Intervention effects were examined using Generalised Linear Mixed Models. Controlling for child age, gender and baseline outcome measure, at follow-up there were no significant differences between groups in minutes of MVPA in-care (mean difference: 4.85; 95% CI: -3.96, 13.66; P = 0.28), proportion of wear time in-care spent in MVPA (mean difference: 1.52%; 95% CI: -0.50, 3.53; P = 0.14) or total physical activity in-care (mean difference in counts per minute: 23.18; 95% CI: -4.26, 50.61; P = 0.10), nor on measures of child cognition (P = 0.45-0.91). It was concluded that interventions addressing multiple aspects of the childcare and home environment might provide the greatest potential to improve child physical activity.
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- 2019
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132. A theory-based evaluation of a dissemination intervention to improve childcare cooks' intentions to implement nutritional guidelines on their menus.
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Yoong SL, Jones J, Marshall J, Wiggers J, Seward K, Finch M, Fielding A, and Wolfenden L
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- Aged, Child, Child Nutritional Physiological Phenomena physiology, Child, Preschool, Diet, Healthy methods, Health Promotion methods, Humans, Middle Aged, New South Wales, Child Day Care Centers, Information Dissemination methods, Intention, Menu Planning methods, Nutrition Policy, Program Evaluation methods
- Abstract
Background: Childcare services represent a key setting to implement nutritional interventions to support the development of healthy eating behaviours in young children. Childcare-specific nutritional guidelines outlining recommendations for provision of food in care have been developed. Despite this, research suggests that few childcare services currently implement these guidelines. This study aimed to examine the impact of providing printed educational materials on childcare service cooks' intentions to use nutritional guidelines and provide fruit and vegetables on their menu., Findings: A randomised controlled trial was conducted with 77 childcare services (38 control and 39 intervention). Intervention service cooks were mailed a two-page educational material together with a menu planning checklist. Intervention development and evaluation was guided by the theory of planned behaviour. Outcome data assessing intentions to use nutritional guidelines and serves of fruit and vegetables provided on menus (primary outcomes) as well as secondary outcomes (attitudes, behavioural regulation and social norms) were collected via a telephone interview with cooks. Relative to the comparison group, cooks in the intervention arm had significantly higher intentions to use the guidelines (p value 0.0005), accompanied by significant changes in perceived behavioural control (p value 0.0008) and attitudes (p value 0.0071). No significant difference in serves of fruit (p value 0.7278) and vegetables (p value 0.0573) was observed., Conclusions: The use of educational materials can improve childcare service cooks' intentions to use nutritional guidelines; however, as a standalone strategy, it may not improve provision of food on menus.
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- 2016
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133. Childcare service centers' preferences and intentions to use a web-based program to implement healthy eating and physical activity policies and practices: a cross-sectional study.
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Yoong SL, Williams CM, Finch M, Wyse R, Jones J, Freund M, Wiggers JH, Nathan N, Dodds P, and Wolfenden L
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- Child, Preschool, Cross-Sectional Studies, Female, Humans, Infant, Infant, Newborn, Male, New South Wales, Overweight prevention & control, Public Health, Child Day Care Centers organization & administration, Intention, Internet, Motor Activity, Nutrition Policy, Obesity prevention & control, Organizational Policy
- Abstract
Background: Overweight and obesity is a significant public health problem that impacts a large number of children globally. Supporting childcare centers to deliver healthy eating and physical activity-promoting policies and practices is a recommended strategy for obesity prevention, given that such services provide access to a substantial proportion of children during a key developmental period. Electronic Web-based interventions represent a novel way to support childcare service providers to implement such policies and practices., Objective: This study aimed to assess: (1) childcare centers' current use of technology, (2) factors associated with intention to use electronic Web-based interventions, and (3) Web-based features that managers rated as useful to support staff with implementing healthy eating and physical activity-promoting policies and practices., Methods: A computer-assisted telephone interview (CATI) was conducted with service managers from long day care centers and preschools. The CATI assessed the following: (1) childcare center characteristics, (2) childcare centers' use of electronic devices, (3) intention to use a hypothetical electronic Web-based program-assessed using the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) with ratings between 1 (strongly disagree) and 7 (strongly agree), and (4) features rated as useful to include in a Web-based program., Results: Overall, 214 service centers out of 277 (77.3%) consented to participate. All service centers except 2 reported using computers (212/214, 99.1%), whereas 40.2% (86/214) used portable tablets. A total of 71.9% (151/210) of childcare service managers reported a score of 6 or more for intention to use a hypothetical electronic Web-based program. In a multivariable logistic regression analysis, intention to use the program was significantly associated with perceived ease of use (P=.002, odds ratio [OR] 3.9, 95% CI 1.6-9.2) and perceived usefulness (P<.001, OR 28,95% CI 8.0-95.2). Features reported by service managers as useful or very useful for a Web-based program included decision-support tools to support staff with menu planning (117/129, 90.7%), links to relevant resources (212/212, 100%), updated information on guidelines (208/212, 98.1%), and feedback regarding childcare center performance in relation to other childcare centers (212/212, 100%)., Conclusions: Childcare service managers reported high intention to use a Web-based program and identified several useful features to support staff to implement healthy eating and physical activity policies and practices. Further descriptive and intervention research examining the development and use of such a program to support childcare centers with the implementation of healthy eating and physical activity-promoting policies and practices is warranted.
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- 2015
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