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PURPOSE: This study aimed to explore the feasibility of using time-matched uniaxial accelerometers for measuring movement in daily life in children with cerebral palsy (CP) before and after botulinum toxin injections. METHODS: This observational study of clinical care with a pre-post design was set in the home and school environment. Participants included eleven children (4–13 years of age) with CP (GMFCS I-III). The children wore uniaxial accelerometers (ActiGraph, model GT1M) for 4 days on both wrists, the right ankle and around the waist before, 3 weeks and 3 months after BoNT-A injections in the legs. Five children also got BoNT-A in the most affected arm. All injections were given according to clinical indications and routine. The accelerometers were all time-matched to define ambulation, arm swing, voluntary activity of arms, and bimanual activity. The feasibility of wearing accelerometers with this setup was evaluated. A linear mixed model was used for analysis of the percentage time and at which intensity the different activities were performed. The confidence interval demonstrated any difference between the dominant and non-dominant arm. RESULTS: Time-matching of accelerometers placed on both wrists, the waist, and one ankle is a feasible method of registering ambulation, arm swing during gait, and arm movements while not ambulating. Before injections, the children spent 5.6% of their time ambulating. This value declined to 3.9% at 3 months. Contrary to clinical goals, arm movement did not increase after injecting the most affected arm with BoNT-A, however, injections may have decreased mirror movements, which are often bothersome for the child. CONCLUSION: A time-matched 4-accelerometer set-up is feasible in children with cerebral palsy. A future study including time-matched multi-axial accelerometers on all four limbs, could provide important information on the effect of BoNT-A in daily life.

It is unclear if associations between cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and cardiometabolic risk factors are independent of degree of obesity, in children with obesity. The aim of this cross-sectional study on 151 children (36.4% girls), 9–17 years, from a Swedish obesity clinic, was to investigate associations between CRF and cardiometabolic risk factors, adjusted for body mass index standard deviation score (BMI SDS), in children with obesity. CRF was objectively assessed with the Åstrand-Rhyming submaximal cycle ergometer test, and blood samples (n = 96) and blood pressure (BP) (n = 84) according to clinical routine. Obesity specific reference values for CRF were used to create CRF levels. CRF was inversely associated with high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), independent of BMI SDS, age, sex, and height. The inverse associations between CRF and diastolic BP did not remain significant when adjusted for BMI SDS. CRF and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol became inversely associated when adjusted for BMI SDS. Independent of degree of obesity, lower CRF is associated with higher levels of hs-CRP, as a biomarker of inflammation, in children with obesity and regular assessment of CRF should be encouraged. Future research in children with obesity should investigate if low-grade inflammation decreases when CRF is improved.

Decreasing levels of serum insulin-degrading enzyme (IDE) have been associated with an increased risk for Alzheimer´s disease (AD) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Research on serum IDE levels in patients with T2DM is sparse and the aim of this study was to explore serum levels of IDE in patients with T2DM.Blood serum samples were obtained from a biobank. Samples from subjects with T2DM and without metabolic disease were divided into subgroups; lifestyle treatment (n = 10), oral antidiabetic treatment (n = 17), insulin treatment (n = 20) and metabolically healthy controls (n = 18). Serum levels of IDE were analysed using specific ELISA assays.Serum levels of IDE were elevated in subjects with T2DM compared to metabolically healthy individuals (p = 0.033). No significant differences were detected between treatment subgroups.The present study indicates that patients with T2DM have increased serum IDE levels, compared to metabolically healthy individuals. However, for IDE to be clinically useful as a biomarker, its full function and possible use needs to be further elucidated in larger studies showing reproducible outcomes.

Accelerometry measurements are a promising method to provide quantitative information of upper limb function in daily life post stroke. Our purpose was to investigate i) the validity of accelerometer-based vector magnitude ratios (VMR) to distinguish upper limb function between individuals post-stroke and healthy controls during ambulatory and non-ambulatory activities and, ii) the association between the VMR and clinical assessment of upper limb function for individuals post-stroke.Forty persons with stroke and 32 healthy controls wore wrist and hip accelerometers while performing three upper limb activities in a clinical setting and during three days in daily living. Clinical assessment of upper limb function was assessed with the Chedoke-McMaster Stroke Assessment measure and ABILHand.In the clinical setting and daily living, the VMR was significantly lower for individuals post-stroke compared to controls during non-ambulatory activities but not during ambulatory activities. There was a moderate to strong association between VMR and clinical assessment of upper limb function during all conditions, except for walking in the clinical setting.The VMR could be used as a sensitive objective marker to measure upper limb function post-stroke during ambulatory and non-ambulatory daily activities.Implications for rehabilitationAccelerometer-based assessment of upper limb function is a sensitive measure of upper limb function post stroke during different activity domains.Accelerometers-based assessment of arm function can detect differences in arm function outside the clinical setting (daily living) over a prolonged period that are not always identified by clinical assessment or perceived ability.

Low physical activity is responsible for approximately 0,83 million deaths globally every year according to the Global Burden of Disease (GBD), whereas others have estimated that low physical activity is responsible for about 4-5 million deaths annually. The underlying evidence for the GBD estimate is debatable. It is based on a substantially lower maximal risk reduction with a relative risk of about 10 % compared with a maximal relative risk reduction of more than 30 % in the recent WHO global physical activity recommendations. According to GBD, dietary risks are responsible for 10 times more deaths compared to low physical activity. This estimate is based on 15 different dietary risk factors without systematically considering covariation between risk factors. It is of utmost importance that a reliable and transparent evidence base is presented in future GBD publications about the impact of disease risk factors on the global disease burden. Misleading messages about the importance of physical activity for reducing chronic diseases will undermine the work conducted to develop evidence-based knowledge about the health effects of physical activity.

Physical inactivity is recognised as a major public health problem. In Sweden about 1/3 of the adult population reports being insufficiently active. A central task in public health work is to support the individual, without blaming, in making healthy choices. Initiatives in healthcare, such as counselling on physical activity, have been shown to be both cost-effective and effective for disease prevention and treatment. The use of a physical activity vital sign and brief advice from physicians can make a big difference. In this paper we present how the healthcare system as one of eight evidence-based investments can promote physical activity. The eight investment areas are: whole-of-school programs, active transport, active urban design, health care, public education, sports and recreation, workplaces and community-wide programs. Evidence suggests that the largest population health benefit will be achieved by combining these investments and implementing a systems-based approach.

Recommendations on physical activity and sedentary behaviour for improved health have been prepared by Professional Associations for Physical Activity (YFA) and approved by the Swedish Society of Medicine. All adults should do aerobic physical activity 150-300 minutes at moderate or 75-150 minutes at high intensity, or combined, at a weekly basis. For additional health benefits, muscle-strengthening activity should be performed on at least 2 days a week, and sedentary time should be limited and replaced by physical activity. Older adults should, as part of their weekly physical activity, do multicomponent physical activity that emphasizes balance and strength on at least 2-3 days a week to enhance functional capacity and prevent falls. The benefits of physical activity outweigh the risks. The Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare recommends that healthcare providers offer counselling with exercise on prescription to individuals with physical activity under the recommended dose.

Background For people with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes it is important to be regularly physical active. Increasing and maintaining physical activity (PA) can be challenging. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a pedometer-based intervention on PA, with a compositional data analysis (CoDA) approach, in individuals with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes. Methods Longitudinal data on 188 participants with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes (40% female, mean age = 64.1 years) from a three-armed randomized controlled trail, the Sophia Step Study, was used. The three groups were a multi?component group (self?monitoring of steps with a pedometer, together with group (12 occasions) and individual counselling (10 occasions)), a single?component group (self?monitoring of steps with a pedometer, without counselling) and a standard care group. PA (moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA), light-intensity PA (LIPA) and sedentary behaviour (SB)) during the awake time were measured with ActiGraph GT1M accelerometer at baseline, 6, 12, 18 and 24 months. Relative time in MVPA, LIPA and SB for each participant at each measurement point was calculated by using the CoDA approach. Linear mixed models were used to evaluate the intervention effect between the three groups on the relative time in MVPA, LIPA and SB over the two-year period. Results In total, 41% had ≤30 min MVPA at baseline. Significant group by time interactions were found for the multi-component group and the standard care group for the relative time in MVPA, at 6, 18 and 24 months. Differences in predicted group means between the groups were 1.2% at 6 months, 1.3% at 18 months and 0.9% at 24 months. Significant group by time interactions were also found for the single-component group and the standard care group for the relative time in MVPA at 24 months, with a difference in predicted group means of 0.8%. No significant interactions for LIPA or SB were found. Conclusions The multi-component group and the single-component component group maintained their relative time in MVPA, while the standard care group decreased their relative time in MVPA over the two-year period. This indicate that the Sophia Step Study intervention can prevent a decrease in MVPA in people with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes.

BackgroundThe joint associations of total and intensity-specific physical activity with obesity in relation to all-cause mortality risk are unclear.MethodsWe included 34 492 adults (72% women, median age 62.1 years, 2034 deaths during follow-up) in a harmonised meta-analysis of eight population-based prospective cohort studies with mean follow-up ranging from 6.0 to 14.5 years. Standard body mass index categories were cross-classified with sample tertiles of device-measured total, light-to-vigorous and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity and sedentary time. In five cohorts with waist circumference available, high and low waist circumference was combined with tertiles of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity.ResultsThere was an inverse dose–response relationship between higher levels of total and intensity-specific physical activity and mortality risk in those who were normal weight and overweight. In individuals with obesity, the inverse dose–response relationship was only observed for total physical activity. Similarly, lower levels of sedentary time were associated with lower mortality risk in normal weight and overweight individuals but there was no association between sedentary time and risk of mortality in those who were obese. Compared with the obese-low total physical activity reference, the HRs were 0.59 (95% CI 0.44 to 0.79) for normal weight-high total activity and 0.67 (95% CI 0.48 to 0.94) for obese-high total activity. In contrast, normal weight-low total physical activity was associated with a higher risk of mortality compared with the obese-low total physical activity reference (1.28; 95% CI 0.99 to 1.67).ConclusionsHigher levels of physical activity were associated with lower risk of mortality irrespective of weight status. Compared with obesity-low physical activity, there was no survival benefit of being normal weight if physical activity levels were low.

ObjectiveTo examine the joint associations of daily time spent in different intensities of physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep with all-cause mortality.MethodsFederated pooled analysis of six prospective cohorts with device-measured time spent in different intensities of physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep following a standardised compositional Cox regression analysis.Participants130 239 people from general population samples of adults (average age 54 years) from the UK, USA and Sweden.Main outcomeAll-cause mortality (follow-up 4.3–14.5 years).ResultsStudies using wrist and hip accelerometer provided statistically different results (I2=92.2%, Q-test pConclusionThis federated analysis shows a joint dose–response association between the daily balance of time spent in physical activity of different intensities and sedentary behaviour with all-cause mortality, while sleep duration does not appear to be significant. The strongest association is with time spent in moderate to vigorous physical activity, but it is modified by the balance of time spent in light physical activity relative to sedentary behaviour.

BACKGROUND The trend of an exponential increase in pre- and type 2 diabetes (T2D) is projected to continue rising worldwide. Physical activity could help prevent type 2 diabetes and the progression and complications of the disease. Therefore, we need to create opportunities for individuals to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to self-management their chronic condition through physical activity. Electronic health (e-health) is a potential resource that could facilitate self-management and thus improve population health. However, there is limited research on users’ perception of e-health in supporting self-management of physical activity in primary care settings. OBJECTIVE The study aims to explore the perspectives of health care professionals and individuals with pre- or type 2 diabetes on e-health as a support system for self-management of physical activity. METHODS A qualitative approach was applied using focus group discussions in individuals with pre- or type 2 diabetes (14 participants in four groups) and health care professionals (10 participants in two groups). The discussions were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Qualitative content analysis was used inductively to code the data. RESULTS Three main categories emerged: utility, adoption process and accountability. The utility of e-health was described as a motivational, entertaining, and stimulating tool. Registration of daily medical measurements and lifestyle parameters in a cohesive digital platform was recognized as a potential resource for strengthening self-management skills. The adoption process includes e-health to increase accessibility of care and personalize the support for self-management of physical activity. However, participants stated that digital technology might not suit everyone and could increase health care providers' administrative burden. Accountability requires the necessary knowledge and skills to optimize e-health and ensure data integrity and security. CONCLUSIONS Applying e-health technology to improve self-management of physical activity in primary care settings seems feasible. People with pre- and type 2 diabetes and health care professionals proposed that a cohesive platform for personal metrics, goal setting and social support could improve self-management of physical activity. A supportive environment including technical expertise and continuous education is needed to upgrade the skills and to adopt e-health in daily clinical practice.

Background Knowledge on longitudinal patterns and related factors of young children’s physical activity (PA) is still scarce. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine patterns and changes of accelerometer-measured PA over time in two to six-year-old children. Furthermore, the aim was to investigate if parental PA, socioeconomic status, sex, weight status, and motor skills are related to child PA over time, using prospective cohort data from a clustered randomized controlled trial. Methods One hundred and six children (52% girls) and their parents had PA measured yearly from age two to six with an Actigraph GT3X. The actigraph was worn on the non-dominant wrist for one week; anthropometric data and motor skills, as well as background information, was collected simultaneously. The outcome was counts per minute from the vector magnitude, and linear mixed-effect models were used to answer the research questions. Results Among the children, accelerometer-measured PA increased on average by 11% per year from two years of age (mean 3170 cpm (3007-3334 95% CI)) onwards to six years of age (mean 4369 cpm (4207-4533 95% CI)). From three years of age, children were more active on weekdays than on weekend days. The rate of difference varied across low, medium, and highly active children (based on tertiles). No significant differences in weekdays/weekend PA among the lowest active children was found. Despite this, they were still significantly less active on weekend days than the most active children. Maternal, but not paternal PA was found to be significantly positively related to child PA over time, with a medium to large effect size. But no significant relationships were found between child PA and sex, weight status, or socioeconomic status. Conclusions PA increased on average with 11% per year, similarly for boys and girls. From three years of age children were more active during weekdays than weekend days. These results indicate that child PA benefits from active stimulation by parents and care takers already from early ages. It is important to identify attributes of possible intervention designs for weekend days for families with young children as well as characterize the least active children. Trial registration Early STOPP was prospectively registered in the clinical trials registry: clinicaltrials.gov, ID NCT01198847

Background: Sedentary behavior (SB) is associated with several chronic diseases and office workers especially are at increased risk. SB is defined by a sitting or reclined body posture with an energy expenditure of ≤1.5 metabolic equivalents. However, current objective methods to measure SB are not consistent with its definition. There is no consensus on which sensor placement and type should be used. Aim: To compare the accuracy of newly developed artificial intelligence models for 15 sensor placements in combination with four signal types (accelerometer only/plus gyroscope and/or magnetometer) to detect posture and physical in-/activity during desk-based activities. Method: Signal features for the model development were extracted from sensor raw data of 30 office workers performing 10 desk-based tasks, each lasting 5 min. Direct observation (posture) and indirect calorimetry (in-/activity) served as the reference criteria. The best classification model for each sensor was identified and compared among the sensor placements, both using Friedman and post hoc Wilcoxon tests (p ≤ .05). Results: Posture was most accurately measured with a lower body sensor, while in-/activity was most accurately measured with an upper body or waist sensor. The inclusion of additional signal types improved the posture classification for some placements, while the acceleration signal already contained the relevant signal information for the in-/activity classification. Overall, the thigh accelerometer most accurately classified desk-based SB. Conclusion: This study favors, in line with previous work, the measurement of SB with a thigh-worn accelerometer and adds the information that this sensor is also accurate in measuring physical in-/activity while sitting and standing.

Funder: National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Collaboration for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care East Midlands, Funder: National Institute on Aging, Funder: Stockholms Läns Landsting; FundRef: http://dx.doi.org/10.13039/501100004348, Funder: Norwegian Directorate for Public Health, Funder: Centrum for Idrottsforskning; FundRef: http://dx.doi.org/10.13039/501100005350, Funder: The Coca-Cola Company, Objectives: To examine the joint associations of accelerometer-measured physical activity and sedentary time with all-cause mortality. Methods: We conducted a harmonised meta-analysis including nine prospective cohort studies from four countries. 44 370 men and women were followed for 4.0 to 14.5 years during which 3451 participants died (7.8% mortality rate). Associations between different combinations of moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) and sedentary time were analysed at study level using Cox proportional hazards regression analysis and summarised using random effects meta-analysis. Results: Across cohorts, the average time spent sedentary ranged from 8.5 hours/day to 10.5 hours/day and 8 min/day to 35 min/day for MVPA. Compared with the referent group (highest physical activity/lowest sedentary time), the risk of death increased with lower levels of MVPA and greater amounts of sedentary time. Among those in the highest third of MVPA, the risk of death was not statistically different from the referent for those in the middle (16%; 95% CI 0.87% to 1.54%) and highest (40%; 95% CI 0.87% to 2.26%) thirds of sedentary time. Those in the lowest third of MVPA had a greater risk of death in all combinations with sedentary time; 65% (95% CI 1.25% to 2.19%), 65% (95% CI 1.24% to 2.21%) and 263% (95% CI 1.93% to 3.57%), respectively. Conclusion: Higher sedentary time is associated with higher mortality in less active individuals when measured by accelerometry. About 30–40 min of MVPA per day attenuate the association between sedentary time and risk of death, which is lower than previous estimates from self-reported data.

Background. Recent studies indicate that exercise can induce neuroplastic changes in people with Parkinson’s disease (PwPD). Reports of feasibility outcomes from existing pilot trials however are, of date, insufficient to enable replication by others in larger definitive trials. Objective. To evaluate trial design for a definitive trial by exploring process and scientific feasibility. Methods. The trial design was a parallel-group RCT pilot with a 1 : 1 allocation ratio to either HiBalance or an active control group (HiCommunication). Both groups received one-hour sessions twice weekly, plus home exercises weekly, for 10 weeks. Participants with mild-to-moderate Parkinson’s disease (PD) were recruited via advertisement. Assessment included physical performance, structural and functional MRI, blood sampling, neuropsychological assessment, and speech/voice assessment. Process and scientific feasibility were monitored throughout the study. Process feasibility involved recruitment, participant acceptability of assessments and interventions, assessment procedures (focus on imaging, blood sampling, and dual-task gait analysis), and blinding procedures. Scientific feasibility involved trends in outcome response and safety during group training and home exercises. Data are presented in median, minimum, and maximum values. Changes from pre- to postintervention are reported descriptively. Results. Thirteen participants were included (4 women, mean age 69.7 years), with a recruitment rate of 31%. Attendance rates and follow-up questionnaires indicated that both groups were acceptable to participate. Image quality was acceptable; however, diplopia and/or sleepiness were observed in several participants during MRI. With regard to dual-task gait performance, there appeared to be a ceiling effect of the cognitive tasks with seven participants scoring all correct answers at pretest. Blinding of group allocation was successful for one assessor but was broken for half of participants for the other. Conclusions. The overall trial design proved feasible to perform, but further strengthening ahead of the definitive RCT is recommended, specifically with respect to MRI setup, cognitive dual-tasks during gait, and blinding procedures. This trial is registered with NCT03213873.

Most patients treated in a hospital setting are fully or partially immobilised. The Activity Board (Träningstavlan® Phystec) is a useful tool to enhance mobilisation after major abdominal cancer surgery. Knowledge of patient experiences of the mobilisation tool is crucial in implementing the Activity Board in health care. This study aimed to describe patient experiences of using the Activity Board after surgery for abdominal cancer. Semi-structured face-to-face interviews were conducted in 15 patients who underwent abdominal surgery due to colorectal, ovarian or urinary bladder cancer. All 15 patients (mean age 67.7 years, range 40–86) used the Activity Board postoperatively. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed according to inductive content analysis. The overarching theme that emerged from the interviews was that “enabling participation facilitates empowerment over rehabilitation”. Three categories supported the theme: prerequisites for using the Activity Board, the value of using supportive behavioural techniques, and the possibility to influence the patients’ care. These findings suggest that the Activity Board could be a viable tool that activates the person-centred postoperative rehabilitation process by cooperating with the medical team at the hospital ward.Implications for rehabilitationPatients who are in hospital due to cancer surgery are often immobilised, which increases the risk of complications.The Activity Board can stimulate the patients to participate in the rehabilitation process in a more active way.The Activity Board can be used to improve and clarify the person-centred approach in hospital settings. Patients who are in hospital due to cancer surgery are often immobilised, which increases the risk of complications. The Activity Board can stimulate the patients to participate in the rehabilitation process in a more active way. The Activity Board can be used to improve and clarify the person-centred approach in hospital settings.

Background The trend of an exponential increase in prediabetes and type 2 diabetes (T2D) is projected to continue rising worldwide. Physical activity could help prevent T2D and the progression and complications of the disease. Therefore, we need to create opportunities for individuals to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to self-manage their chronic condition through physical activity. eHealth is a potential resource that could facilitate self-management and thus improve population health. However, there is limited research on users’ perception of eHealth in promoting physical activity in primary care settings. Objective This study aims to explore the perspectives of health care professionals and individuals with prediabetes and T2D on eHealth to promote physical activity in primary care. Methods A qualitative approach was applied using focus group discussions among individuals with prediabetes or T2D (14 participants in four groups) and health care professionals (10 participants in two groups). The discussions were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Qualitative content analysis was used inductively to code the data. Results Three main categories emerged: utility, adoption process, and accountability. The utility of eHealth was described as a motivational, entertaining, and stimulating tool. Registration of daily medical measurements and lifestyle parameters in a cohesive digital platform was recognized as a potential resource for strengthening self-management skills. The adoption process includes eHealth to increase the accessibility of care and personalize the support of physical activity. However, participants stated that digital technology might only suit some and could increase health care providers’ administrative burden. Accountability refers to the knowledge and skills to optimize eHealth and ensure data integrity and security. Conclusions People with prediabetes and T2D and health care professionals positively viewed an integration of eHealth technology in primary care to promote physical activity. A cohesive platform using personal metrics, goal-setting, and social support to promote physical activity was suggested. This study identified eHealth illiteracy, inequality, privacy, confidentiality, and an increased workload on health care professionals as factors of concern when integrating eHealth into primary care. Continuous development of eHealth competence was reported as necessary to optimize the implementation of eHealth technology in primary care.

BACKGROUND Physical activity and a diet that follows general recommendations can help to prevent noncommunicable diseases. However, most adults do not meet current recommended guidelines, and support for behavior change needs to be strengthened. There is growing evidence that shows the benefits of eHealth and mobile health (mHealth) services in promoting healthy habits; however, their long-term effectiveness is uncertain because of nonadherence. OBJECTIVE We aimed to explore users’ perceptions of acceptability, engagement, and usability of eHealth and mHealth services that promote physical activity, healthy diets, or both in the primary or secondary prevention of noncommunicable diseases. METHODS We conducted a systematic review with a narrative synthesis. We performed the literature search in PubMed, PsycINFO, and CINAHL electronic databases in February 2021 and July 2021. The search was limited to papers published in English between 2016 and 2021. Papers on qualitative and mixed method studies that encompassed eHealth and mHealth services for adults with a focus on physical activity, healthy diet, or both in the primary or secondary prevention of noncommunicable diseases were included. Three authors screened the studies independently, and 2 of the authors separately performed thematic analysis of qualitative data. RESULTS With an initial finding of 6308 articles and the removal of 427 duplicates, 23 articles were deemed eligible for inclusion in the review. Based on users’ preferences, an overarching theme—eHealth and mHealth services provide value but need to be tailored to individual needs—and 5 subthemes—interactive and integrated; varying and multifunctional; easy, pedagogic, and attractive; individualized and customizable; and reliable—emerged. CONCLUSIONS New evidence on the optimization of digital services that promote physical activity and healthy diets has been synthesized. The findings represent users’ perceptions of acceptability, engagement, and usability of eHealth and mHealth services and show that services should be personalized, dynamic, easily manageable, and reliable. These findings can help improve adherence to digital health-promoting services.

BACKGROUND: People with Parkinson disease (PD) are known to be at risk of physical inactivity and may therefore be especially vulnerable to negative health outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic due to social distancing recommendations. PURPOSE: To investigate sensor-derived physical activity and perceived health of people with PD during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the factors associated with these outcomes. METHODS: Physical activity was measured over 7 days using the Actigraph GT3x accelerometer. Data were collected regarding perceived health status and physical activity habits, as well as rehabilitation attendance during the pandemic. Multiple linear and logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with physical activity and perceived changes in health. RESULTS: Of 89 participants, a majority (67%) reported a pandemic-related reduction in exercise habits. Women more commonly reported a reduction in scheduled exercise and cancelled rehabilitation than men. Study participants took on average 5876 ± 3180 steps per day. In the multivariate analysis, female gender, being 70 years of age and older, and greater reported mobility problems were associated with being less physically active. A pandemic-induced deterioration in health was reported by 42% and women were 5 times more likely than men to do so (odds ratio: 5.12, 95% confidence interval, 1.87-15.03; P = 0.002). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: Despite a pandemic-related reduction in reported exercise habits and rehabilitation, the participants in this Swedish sample were relatively physically active. However, women were less active at moderate-vigorous levels and were at greater risk of deterioration in perceived health during this time.Video Abstract available for more insight from the authors (see the Video, Supplemental Digital Content 1, available at: http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A359).

The association between the composition of movement behaviors and mortality risk, acknowledging the composition nature of daily time data, is limited explored. The aim was to investigate how the composition of time spent in sedentary behaviors (SB), light intensity physical activity (LIPA), and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) is associated with all-cause mortality, in a cohort with 15 years follow-up time, using compositional data analysis. Eight hundred fifty-one participants (56% women, mean age 53 years) provided objectively assessed physical activity data using an ActiGraph accelerometer and were followed for 15 years. Association of daily time composition of movement behaviors with risk of mortality was explored using compositional data analysis and hazard ratios (HR) of mortality were estimated based on a cox regression model. A significant (P < .001) positive association between time spent in SB relative to time in other behaviors and a significant (P = .018) negative association between time spent in LIPA relative to time in other behaviors, with all-cause mortality, were found. Substituting time spent in LIPA or MVPA with time in SB increased the hazard for all-cause mortality, with greater effect found for MVPA (20 minutes replacement; HR 1.26, 95% CI 1.04-1.52) than for LIPA (20 minutes replacement; HR 1.06, 95% CI 0.65-1.73). In a public health perspective, it is recommended to substitute SB with either LIPA or MVPA, but for individuals with little time spent in MVPA, the most important message may be to try to maintain that behavior.

Background and purpose Accelerometer threshold values to detect physical activity intensity in the oldest old persons with coronary artery disease (CAD) are lacking as well as knowledge about their free-living physical activity behavior. The purpose of this study was 2-fold. (1) To assess the sensitivity and specificity of 3 existing intensity threshold values for ActiGraph accelerometers for the oldest old persons with CAD. (2) To assess free-living physical activity, applying the threshold values with the highest sensitivity and specificity for assessing at least moderate intensity, among these persons. Methods In a cross-sectional design, a total of 24 persons with CAD, mean age 87.5 (3.7) years, participated in the study at a university hospital in Sweden. To assess the sensitivity and specificity of the existing threshold values, the participants walked at different speeds wearing the accelerometer at a pace corresponding to individualized perceived exertion at light, moderate, and high intensity according to the Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion Scale. For the free-living physical activity assessment, the persons wore the accelerometer for 7 consecutive days. The percentage agreement for light-, moderate-, and high-intensity threshold values, as well as receiver operating characteristic curves, was used to identify the sensitivity and specificity of the existing threshold values for moderate intensity. Results and discussion The threshold values for at least moderate intensity at 1041 counts per minute according to Copeland had the highest sensitivity (0.739) and specificity (0.609) to identify at least moderate intensity for the ActiGraph GT3X+ accelerometer. In a free-living setting, the oldest old persons with CAD spent 11 of 13.5 (81%) waking hours in a sedentary position and, of the 2.5 hours of being active, 19 minutes (2%) were at least at moderate intensity. Nine of 24 persons (38%) reached 20 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity 3 days a week, according to guidelines for exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation. Conclusions The existing threshold values according to Copeland had the highest sensitivity and specificity to identify at least moderate intensity and are valid for use in the oldest old persons with CAD. Using accelerometry as an objective measurement for physical activity can help further improve our understanding of free-living physical activity behavior and to assess relationships between free-living physical activity and health outcomes among the oldest old persons with CAD.

Although increasing evidence supports the benefit- of exercise among people with Parkinson disease (PwPD), it is unclear whether a given exercise modality suits all PwPD, given the heterogeneity of the disease. The purpose of this study was to explore factors associated with responsiveness to a highly challenging training intervention that incorporated dual-task exercises.Forty-seven PwPD (mean age: 73 years; 19 females, Hoehn and Yahr stages 2-3) who had participated in 10 weeks of highly challenging gait and balance training were included. Baseline demographics, disease-related factors, physical and cognitive ability, and perceived health were used for the prediction of percent change in balance performance (the Mini-BESTest) and comfortable gait speed between the pre- and postassessments, using multiple linear regression analyses.Thirty-five percent of the variance of change in balance performance was explained by General Health Perceptions (β = -0.36), the Timed Up and Go test (β = -0.33), and the single-task performance of a cognitive task (β = -0.24). Forty-nine percent of change in gait speed was explained by gait speed while performing a dual task (β = -0.46), dual-task interference while walking (β = 0.43), time to complete the Timed Up and Go test (β = -0.29), and percent error on a cognitive task (β = -0.25).The results may suggest that the PwPD with overall lower perceived health, functional mobility, and cognitive functions are the ones most likely to benefit from highly challenging and attention-demanding gait and balance training.Video Abstract available for more insights from the authors (see Video, Supplemental Digital Content 1, available at: http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A240).

Background Describing implementation features of an intervention is required to compare interventions and to inform policy and best practice. The aim of this study was to conduct a process evaluation of the first 12 months of the Sophia Step Study: a primary care based RCT evaluating a multicomponent (self-monitoring of daily steps plus counseling) and a single component (self-monitoring of steps only) physical activity intervention to standard care on cardiometabolic health. Methods The evaluation was guided by the Medical Research Council Guidance for complex interventions. To describe the implementation communication with the health professionals implementing the interventions, attendance records and tracking of days with self-monitored pedometer-determined steps were used. Change in physical activity behaviour was measured at baseline, 6 and 12 months as daily steps by accelerometry. Results During April 2013 to January 2018 188 participants were randomized and intervened directly after inclusion. Response rate was 49% and drop out was 10%. A majority, 78%, had type 2 diabetes and 22% were diagnosed with prediabetes. Mean [Standard deviation (SD)] body mass index was 30.4 (4.4) kg/m2 and steps per day was 6566 (3086). The interventions were delivered as intended with minor deviation from the protocol and dose received was satisfying for both the multicomponent and single component group. The mean [95% Confidence Interval (CI)] change in daily steps from baseline to 6 months was 941(227, 1655) steps/day for the multicomponent intervention group, 990 (145, 1836) step/day for the single component group and − 506 (− 1118, 107) for the control group. The mean (95% CI) change in daily steps from baseline to 12 months was 31(− 507, 570) steps/day for the multicomponent intervention group, 144 (− 566, 853) step/day for the single component group and − 890 (− 1485, − 294) for the control group. There was a large individual variation in daily steps at baseline as well as in step change in all three groups. Conclusions Applying self-monitoring of steps is a feasible method to implement as support for physical activity in the primary care setting both with and without counseling support. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02374788. Registered 2 March 2015.

Background Sedentary Behaviour (SB) gets an increasing attention from ergonomics and public health due to its associated detrimental health effects. A large number of studies record SB with ActiGraph counts-per-minute cut-points, but we still lack valid information about what the cut-points tell us about office work. This study therefore analysed the concurrent and discriminant validity of commonly used cut-points to measure SB, activity level, and posture. Methods Thirty office workers completed four office tasks at three workplaces (conventional chair, activity-promoting chair, and standing desk) while wearing two ActiGraphs (waist and wrist). Indirect calorimetry and prescribed posture served as reference criteria. Generalized Estimation Equations analysed workplace and task effects on the activity level and counts-per-minute, and kappa statistics and ROC curves analysed the cut-point validity. Results The activity-promoting chair (p p = 1.0) increased the activity level, and both these workplaces increased the waist (p ≤ 0.003, ES ≥ 0.63) but not the wrist counts-per-minute (p = 0.74) compared to the conventional chair. The concurrent and discriminant validity was higher for activity level (kappa: 0.52–0.56 and 0.38–0.45, respectively) than for SB and posture (kappa ≤0.35 and ≤ 0.19, respectively). Furthermore, the discriminant validity for activity level was higher for task effects (kappa: 0.42–0.48) than for workplace effects (0.13–0.24). Conclusions ActiGraph counts-per-minute for waist and wrist placement were – independently of the chosen cut-point – a measure for activity level and not for SB or posture, and the cut-points performed better to detect task effects than workplace effects. Waist cut-points were most valid to measure the activity level in conventional seated office work, but they showed severe limitations for sit-stand desks. None of the placements was valid to detect the increased activity on the activity-promoting chair. Caution should therefore be paid when analysing the effect of workplace interventions on activity level with ActiGraph waist and wrist cut-points.

Background Identifying physical activity (PA) profiles of people with Parkinson’s Disease (PD) could provide clinically meaningful knowledge concerning how to tailor PA interventions. Our objectives were therefore to i) identify distinct PA profiles in people with PD based on accelerometer data, ii) explore differences between the profiles regarding personal characteristics and physical function. Methods Accelerometer data from 301 participants (43% women, mean age: 71 years) was analysed using latent profile analyses of 15 derived PA variables. Physical function measurements included balance performance, comfortable gait speed and single and dual-task functional mobility. Results Three distinct profiles were identified; “Sedentary” (N = 68), “Light Movers” (N = 115), “Steady Movers” (N = 118). “Sedentary” included people with PD with high absolute and relative time spent in Sedentary behaviour (SB), little time light intensity physical activity (LIPA) and negligible moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA). “Light Movers” were people with PD with values close to the mean for all activity variables. “Steady Movers” spent less time in SB during midday, and more time in LIPA and MVPA throughout the day, compared to the other profiles. “Sedentary” people had poorer balance (P = 0.006), poorer functional mobility (P = 0.027) and were more likely to have fallen previously (P = 0.027), compared to “Light Movers. The Timed Up and Go test, an easily performed clinical test of functional mobility, was the only test that could distinguish between all three profiles. Conclusion Distinct PA profiles, with clear differences in how the time awake is spent exist among people with mild-moderate PD.

BACKGROUND Physical activity is evidently a crucial part of the rehabilitation process for patients with chronic pain. Modern wrist-worn activity tracking devices seemingly have a great potential to provide objective feedback and assist in the adoption of healthy physical activity behavior by supplying data of energy expenditure expressed as metabolic equivalent of task units (MET). However, no studies of any wrist-worn activity tracking devices’ have examined criterion validity in estimating energy expenditure, heart rate, or step count in patients with chronic pain. OBJECTIVE The aim was to determine the criterion validity of wrist-worn activity tracking devices for estimations of energy expenditure, heart rate, and step count in a controlled laboratory setting and free-living settings for patients with chronic pain. METHODS In this combined laboratory and field validation study, energy expenditure, heart rate, and step count were simultaneously estimated by a wrist-worn activity tracker (Fitbit Versa), indirect calorimetry (Jaeger Oxycon Pro), and a research-grade hip-worn accelerometer (ActiGraph GT3X) during treadmill walking at 3 speeds (3.0 km/h, 4.5 km/h, and 6.0 km/h) in the laboratory setting. Energy expenditure and step count were also estimated by the wrist-worn activity tracker in free-living settings for 72 hours. The criterion validity of each measure was determined using intraclass and Spearman correlation, Bland-Altman plots, and mean absolute percentage error. An analysis of variance was used to determine whether there were any significant systematic differences between estimations. RESULTS A total of 42 patients (age: 25-66 years; male: 10/42, 24%; female: 32/42, 76%), living with chronic pain (duration, in years: mean 9, SD 6.72) were included. At baseline, their mean pain intensity was 3.5 (SD 1.1) out of 6 (Multidimensional Pain Inventory, Swedish version). Results showed that the wrist-worn activity tracking device (Fitbit Versa) systematically overestimated energy expenditure when compared to the criterion standard (Jaeger Oxycon Pro) and the relative criterion standard (ActiGraph GT3X). Poor agreement and poor correlation were shown between Fitbit Versa and both Jaeger Oxycon Pro and ActiGraph GT3X for estimated energy expenditure at all treadmill speeds. Estimations of heart rate demonstrated poor to fair agreement during laboratory-based treadmill walks. For step count, the wrist-worn devices showed fair agreement and fair correlation at most treadmill speeds. In free-living settings; however, the agreement for step count between the wrist-worn device and waist-worn accelerometer was good, and the correlation was excellent. CONCLUSIONS The wrist-worn device systematically overestimated energy expenditure and showed poor agreement and correlation compared to the criterion standard (Jaeger Oxycon Pro) and the relative criterion standard (ActiGraph GT3X), which needs to be considered when used clinically. Step count measured with a wrist-worn device, however, seemed to be a valid estimation, suggesting that future guidelines could include such variables in this group with chronic pain.

Background Physical activity is evidently a crucial part of the rehabilitation process for patients with chronic pain. Modern wrist-worn activity tracking devices seemingly have a great potential to provide objective feedback and assist in the adoption of healthy physical activity behavior by supplying data of energy expenditure expressed as metabolic equivalent of task units (MET). However, no studies of any wrist-worn activity tracking devices’ have examined criterion validity in estimating energy expenditure, heart rate, or step count in patients with chronic pain. Objective The aim was to determine the criterion validity of wrist-worn activity tracking devices for estimations of energy expenditure, heart rate, and step count in a controlled laboratory setting and free-living settings for patients with chronic pain. Methods In this combined laboratory and field validation study, energy expenditure, heart rate, and step count were simultaneously estimated by a wrist-worn activity tracker (Fitbit Versa), indirect calorimetry (Jaeger Oxycon Pro), and a research-grade hip-worn accelerometer (ActiGraph GT3X) during treadmill walking at 3 speeds (3.0 km/h, 4.5 km/h, and 6.0 km/h) in the laboratory setting. Energy expenditure and step count were also estimated by the wrist-worn activity tracker in free-living settings for 72 hours. The criterion validity of each measure was determined using intraclass and Spearman correlation, Bland-Altman plots, and mean absolute percentage error. An analysis of variance was used to determine whether there were any significant systematic differences between estimations. Results A total of 42 patients (age: 25-66 years; male: 10/42, 24%; female: 32/42, 76%), living with chronic pain (duration, in years: mean 9, SD 6.72) were included. At baseline, their mean pain intensity was 3.5 (SD 1.1) out of 6 (Multidimensional Pain Inventory, Swedish version). Results showed that the wrist-worn activity tracking device (Fitbit Versa) systematically overestimated energy expenditure when compared to the criterion standard (Jaeger Oxycon Pro) and the relative criterion standard (ActiGraph GT3X). Poor agreement and poor correlation were shown between Fitbit Versa and both Jaeger Oxycon Pro and ActiGraph GT3X for estimated energy expenditure at all treadmill speeds. Estimations of heart rate demonstrated poor to fair agreement during laboratory-based treadmill walks. For step count, the wrist-worn devices showed fair agreement and fair correlation at most treadmill speeds. In free-living settings; however, the agreement for step count between the wrist-worn device and waist-worn accelerometer was good, and the correlation was excellent. Conclusions The wrist-worn device systematically overestimated energy expenditure and showed poor agreement and correlation compared to the criterion standard (Jaeger Oxycon Pro) and the relative criterion standard (ActiGraph GT3X), which needs to be considered when used clinically. Step count measured with a wrist-worn device, however, seemed to be a valid estimation, suggesting that future guidelines could include such variables in this group with chronic pain.

Background Patients who have undergone radical cystectomy for urinary bladder cancer are not sufficiently physically active and therefore may suffer complications leading to readmissions. A physical rehabilitation programme early postoperatively might prevent or at least alleviate these potential complications and improve physical function. The main aim of the CanMoRe trial is to evaluate the impact of a standardised and individually adapted exercise intervention in primary health care to improve physical function (primary outcome) and habitual physical activity, health-related quality of life, fatigue, psychological wellbeing and readmissions due to complications in patients undergoing robotic-assisted radical cystectomy for urinary bladder cancer. Methods In total, 120 patients will be included and assigned to either intervention or control arm of the study. All patients will receive preoperative information on the importance of early mobilisation and during the hospital stay they will follow a standard protocol for enhanced mobilisation. The intervention group will be given a referral to a physiotherapist in primary health care close to their home. Within the third week after discharge, the intervention group will begin 12 weeks of biweekly exercise. The exercise programme includes aerobic and strengthening exercises. The control group will receive oral and written information about a home-based exercise programme. Physical function will serve as the primary outcome and will be measured using the Six-minute walk test. Secondary outcomes are gait speed, handgrip strength, leg strength, habitual physical activity, health-related quality of life, fatigue, psychological wellbeing and readmissions due to complications. The measurements will be conducted at discharge (i.e. baseline), post-intervention and 1 year after surgery. To evaluate the effects of the intervention mixed or linear regression models according to the intention to treat procedure will be used. Discussion This proposed randomised controlled trial has the potential to provide new knowledge within rehabilitation after radical cystectomy for urinary bladder cancer. The programme should be easy to apply to other patient groups undergoing abdominal surgery for cancer and has the potential to change the health care chain for these patients. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov. Clinical trial registration number NCT03998579. First posted June 26, 2019.

By exploring multiple characteristics of physical activity and sedentary behavior (SB), different physical activity profiles could be obtained, which may be beneficial for health and targeted physical activity interventions. The aim of this study was to identify distinct physical activity profiles based on accelerometer-derived activity characteristics and to determine whether these profiles are associated with all-cause mortality. Eight hundred fifty-one participants (56% women, mean age: 53 years) provided objectively assessed physical activity data using an ActiGraph accelerometer and were followed for 15 years. Physical activity profiles were determined using latent profile analyses of 14 derived activity variables, resulting in that three profiles were identified: "Low Active" (n = 147), "Average Active" (n = 397), and "High Active" (n = 307). "Low Active" was characterized by participants with low absolute, relative, and limited variation of time spent in physical activity, and high time spent in SB. "Average Active" had the most balanced movement behavior with values close to the mean for all activity variables. "High Active" was characterized by participants with high absolute, relative, and great variation of time spent in physical activity. Overall, a potentially non-linear pattern between multiple activity variables and all-cause mortality was found as "Low Active" was significantly (P < .05) positively associated with all-cause mortality, and no difference in mortality risk was found between "High Active" and "Average Active." Our data suggest that day-to-day variation in SB is not associated with all-cause mortality. The important message is to keep the overall time spent in SB low and replace this behavior with physical activity.

OBJECTIVES: To compare sleep in young children at different obesity risks, which were based on parental weight, as well as to explore the longitudinal associations of sleep characteristics with adiposity. METHODS: In total, 107 children from an obesity prevention project were included, of which 43 had normal-weight parents (low obesity risk) and 64 had overweight and/or obese parents (high obesity risk). Sleep was measured yearly from ages 2 to 6 years by using actigraphy. Five sleep characteristics, that of late sleep, long sleep latency, short sleep duration, low sleep efficiency, and irregular sleep onset, were defined and scored across ages, with a higher score indicating more frequent exposure. The outcome variables, also measured yearly, were BMI z score and waist circumference. RESULTS: There was no difference in sleep patterns among children at different risks. Higher short sleep duration score was associated with a greater increase in BMI z score (0.12; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.01 to 0.25) across ages. Independently of sleep duration, higher late sleep score was associated with greater increases in BMI z score (0.16; 95% CI 0.05 to 0.27) and waist circumference (0.60 cm; 95% CI 0.23 to 0.98). Moreover, compared with children at low risk and without habitual late sleep, children at high risk and with habitual late sleep had greater increases in BMI z score (0.93; 95% CI 0.40 to 1.45) and waist circumference (3.45 cm; 95% CI 1.78 to 5.12). CONCLUSIONS: More frequent exposures to late sleep were associated with greater increases in adiposity measures from ages 2 to 6 years, particularly in children with obese parents.

Background To increase the knowledge about physical activity (PA) patterns and correlates among children under the age of 4, there is a need for study’s using objective measurements. The aim of this study was therefore to investigate if objectively measured PA among 3-year-old children differed between day of week and time of day and whether it correlated to child weight status and sex as well as parental weight status and education. Methods Totally 61 children (51% girls) aged 3, participating in Early Stockholm Obesity Prevention Project were included. PA was measured with a tri-axial accelerometer (ActiGraph GT3X+) worn on the non-dominant wrist for one week. The main outcome was average PA expressed as counts per minute from the vector magnitude. PA and demographics/family-related factors were collected at baseline and at age 3. To analyze the results simple linear regression, ANOVA and paired t-tests were performed. Results The mean number of valid days was 6.7 per child. The children were more active on weekdays than weekends (p p = 0.0001). Children to parents with low education were more active (p = 0.01) than those with highly educated parents. No differences in PA by child weight status, sex nor parental weight status were found. Conclusions PA in 3-year-old children was lower during weekends than weekdays and varied over the day. Boys and girls had similar PA patterns, these patterns were independent of child or parental weight status. Children to parents with low education were more active than their counterparts. The fact that PA differed between weekdays and weekends indicates that PA might be affectable in 3-year-old children.

Background: This study aimed to identify distinct profiles of physical activity (PA) patterns among individuals with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes participating in a two-year PA trial and to investigate predictors of the profiles. Methods: Data (n = 168, collected 2013–2020) from the cohort of a randomized trial aimed at increasing PA in individuals with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes were used. PA and sedentary behaviours were assessed by waist-worn ActiGraph GT1M accelerometers at baseline and at 6, 12, 18 and 24 months. Fifteen PA and sedentary variables were entered into a latent class mixed model for multivariate longitudinal outcomes. Multinominal regression analysis modelled profile membership based on baseline activity level, age, gender, BMI, disease status and group randomisation. Results: Two profiles of PA patterns were identified: “Increased activity” (n = 37, 22%) included participants increasing time in PA and decreasing sedentary time. “No change in activity” (n = 131, 78%) included participants with no or minor changes. “Increased activity” were younger (p = 0.003) and more active at baseline (p = 0.011), compared to “No change in activity”. No other predictor was associated with profile membership. Conclusions: A majority of participants maintained PA and sedentary patterns over two years despite being part of a PA intervention. Individuals improving PA patterns were younger and more active at baseline.

The measurement of physical activity (PA) is fundamental to health-related research, practice and policy. For decades, self-report measures have provided unique insights into the role of PA for human health and society. In fact, studies, in which participants reported their behaviours—or the behaviours of others—using diaries, logs, questionnaires and recalls, have historically provided the evidence that underpins global PA guidelines.1 Self-reports have been used extensively in various settings, including population surveillance, observational and intervention studies and routine assessment as part of healthcare. The field of PA measurement is rapidly evolving. We have a wealth of measurement instruments and achieved remarkable advancements in the use of device-based information such as raw accelerometry, novel algorithms for pattern recognition and worldwide initiatives for data harmonisation.2 3 The technological evolution has changed the practice of PA self-reports as well, and led to electronic surveys and ecological momentary assessments (EMAs) for the measurement of PA in natural environments and in ‘real time’. Despite significant improvements, an established standard for the measurement of PA does not exist due to the complexity of the behaviour.4 PA is multifaceted and encompasses different domains (eg, leisure, occupation, transport, household), dimensions (eg, frequency, duration, intensity, …

Introduction: Support for physical activity (PA) is central in diabetes care. The Sophia Step Study is a three-armed randomised controlled trial aiming to evaluate different levels of support for i ...

To investigate objectively measured physical activity in stroke survivors living in low-income areas of Cape Town, South Africa, specifically to: (a) describe the volume of daily physical activity and time spent in different intensity levels and (b) investigate the association of factors covering the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health with sedentary behavior.A cross-sectional design was used, where forty-five ambulatory community-dwelling stroke survivors participated. Volume and intensity of physical activity were assessed with accelerometers for three to five consecutive days. Personal and environmental factors, along with body function and activity, were captured. Multiple linear regression was used to investigate factors associated with the percentage of days spent sedentary.The median number of steps per day was 2393, and of the average 703 minutes of wear time, 80% were spent in sedentary, 15% in light, and 5% in moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity. Age, stroke severity, and failing to receive outpatient rehabilitation were independently associated with sedentary, which, taken together, explained 52% of the variance.Low volumes of physical activity and high amount of sedentary time emphasize the need to develop strategies that will increase physical activity. Providing outpatient rehabilitation in a systematic manner post-stroke is a potential target of health care programs in order to reduce sedentary behavior. Implications for rehabilitation Objectively measured physical activity among community-dwelling survivors of stroke in Cape Town, South Africa was low in volume, and the majority did not meet the recommendations of 150 minutes of at least moderate intensity physical activity. The majority of stroke survivors in South Africa spent most of their time sedentary, which could further increase the risk of cardiovascular impairments. Outpatient rehabilitation should be provided to all patients after stroke since it appears to reduce sedentary time.

Background: The aims of physical therapy are to develop, maintain, and restore optimal movement and functional ability throughout the lifespan for individuals and populations. Physical activity is ...

On behalf of the HELENA Study Group., The aim was to investigate whether there was an association between amino acid (AA) intake and physical fitness and if so, to assess whether this association was independent of carbohydrates intake. European adolescents (n = 1481, 12.5–17.5 years) were measured. Intake was assessed via two non-consecutive 24-h dietary recalls. Lower and upper limbs muscular fitness was assessed by standing long jump and handgrip strength tests, respectively. Cardiorespiratory fitness was assessed by the 20-m shuttle run test. Physical activity was objectively measured. Socioeconomic status was obtained via questionnaires. Lower limbs muscular fitness seems to be positively associated with tryptophan, histidine and methionine intake in boys, regardless of centre, age, socioeconomic status, physical activity and total energy intake (model 1). However, these associations disappeared once carbohydrates intake was controlled for (model 2). In girls, only proline intake seems to be positively associated with lower limbs muscular fitness (model 2) while cardiorespiratory fitness seems to be positively associated with leucine (model 1) and proline intake (models 1 and 2). None of the observed significant associations remained significant once multiple testing was controlled for. In conclusion, we failed to detect any associations between any of the evaluated AAs and physical fitness after taking into account the effect of multiple testing., The HELENA study took place with the financial support of the European Community Sixth RTD Framework Programme (Contract FOOD-CT: 2005-007034).

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: In order for people with Parkinson disease (PwPD) to benefit from neurorehabilitation research, interventions tested in research settings require assessment in real-world clinical practice. There is little evidence for whether efficacious exercise interventions for PwPD remain effective when transferred to standard clinical settings. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical effectiveness of the adapted HiBalance program on balance control and gait among PwPD. METHODS: Participants (n = 117) with mild-moderate Parkinson disease were consecutively included into either the 10-week HiBalance group training (n = 61) or the control (n = 56) group. The main outcome was balance performance (Mini-BESTest). Secondary outcomes were comfortable gait speed (10-m Walk Test); functional mobility (Timed Up and Go [TUG] test) and dual-task interference (cognitive TUG test); physical activity level (steps per day); perceived balance confidence (Activities-specific Balance Confidence scale) and perceived walking difficulty (Walk-12G) and self-rated health (EQ-5D visual analog scale). RESULTS: In total, 98 people completed the trial. Compared with controls, the training group showed significant improvement in balance performance (P < 0.001), gait speed (P = 0.001), and dual-task interference (P = 0.04) following the intervention. No group differences were observed for physical activity level or any patient-reported measures. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: Highly challenging balance training is effective at improving balance, gait, and dual-task performance when delivered at a clinically feasible dose, in a range of rehabilitation settings, without direct involvement of the research group.Video Abstract available for more insights from the authors (see the Video, Supplementary Digital Content 1, available at: http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A299).

To investigate the associations between objectively measured sedentary behavior (SB), light-intensity physical activity (LIPA) and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and cardiometabolic ...

The development of accelerometers has revolutionized measurement of physical activity, and they are used to a large extent in research and have started to be implemented into clinical settings. However, achievement of reliable outcomes requires good methodological knowledge and skills by the user. Otherwise, significant measurement errors may occur, interfering with assessment of the physical activity level in the population, group differences, associations with health parameters or effect of treatments. This paper by the Swedish Network for Objective Measurement of Movement (NORM) provides an overview of physical activity measurement including sections of data collection, processing of raw data into useful metrics and statistical analysis. It targets users of accelerometer in research, health care and national surveys.

Objectives To assess the stability and determinants of total and context specific sitting in a follow-up of adults. Design Longitudinal study. Methods Participants in the DILGOM cohort (n = 3735, men 45%), reported daily sitting in five contexts (work-related, in vehicle, at home by the TV, at home at the computer, and elsewhere) in 2007 and 2014. Sociodemographic background, lifestyle and health were assessed in 2007. Total sitting comprised the sum of context specific sitting. Changes in, and determinants of context specific sitting, stratified by baseline age into young middle-aged ( 68 years) were estimated by generalized linear mixed models. Results In 2007, total daily sitting was 7 h 26 min, 6 h 16 min, and 6 h 3 min in young middle-aged, late middle-aged and older-aged groups, respectively. Over 7 years, total sitting decreased on average by 26 min. Sitting at the computer increased by 7–17 min. The late middle-aged group also increased sitting by the TV, and decreased total, work-related, vehicle and elsewhere sitting. Occupational status determined context specific sitting, but somewhat differently in young and late middle-aged groups. Poor self-rated health determined less work-related and more sitting by the TV in the young, whereas good health determined less work-related sitting in the late middle-aged group. Conclusions Self-reported sitting is a fairly stable behavior, with the exception for the late middle-aged group, where all context specific and total sitting changed significantly. Occupational status and health determined changes in sitting; however, somewhat differently by age group.

Background: This study investigates the association between self-rated health and the time spent in sedentary behavior (SB), low light-intensity physical activity (LLPA), high light-intensity physical activity (HLPA), and moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA), by controlling for demographics, socioeconomic status, and chronic diseases. Methods: A total of 1665 participants (55% women) completed a questionnaire about demographics, chronic diseases, and anthropometric characteristics and provided objective physical activity data on time in SB, LLPA, HLPA, and MVPA, using an ActiGraph 7164 accelerometer. Association between self-rated health and activity data was explored in a compositional data analysis. Results: The multinomial logistic regression analysis showed a significantly lower time spent in MVPA in proportion to time in other movement behaviors (SB, LLPA, and HLPA) for participants who rated their health as alright or poor compared with excellent (P Conclusions: Promoting MVPA, as opposed to time in other movement behaviors, is suggested to be beneficial for excellent self-rated health.

The aim of the study was to examine the relationship between employment status and job activity level with physical activity (PA) and sedentary time, stratified by gender and country.Cross-sectional study design.Data from working age adults (18-65 years) from two cross-sectional studies, the Swedish 2001-2002 and 2007-2008 Attitude Behavior and Change Study (ABC; n=1165) and the 2003-2006 US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES; n=4201), were stratified by employment status (employed and not employed) and job activity level (active, sedentary and mixed). PA in counts×min(-1) and time spent in sedentary, low and moderate or higher intensity were measured with accelerometers. Analyses were conducted in 2012-2013.In NHANES, the employed had significantly higher counts×min(-1) and spent more time in moderate or higher intensity PA than those not employed. In ABC, no significant differences were observed between employed and unemployed. Adults with active versus sedentary occupations had higher counts×min(-1) and less sedentary time in both the USA and Sweden and in both men and women. For example, counts×min(-1) were 20-40% greater in active versus sedentary jobs.Employment status is related to PA and sedentary time among men and women in the USA but not in Sweden. Among the employed, occupational PA is associated with total PA and sedentary time for both genders and in both countries. Comparisons of PA levels based on objective measurements can refine understanding of country differences in activity.

Aim:To describe objectively-measured physical activity levels and patterns among community-dwelling older adults with osteoporosis, impaired balance, and fear of falling, and to explore the associations with gait, balance performance, falls self-efficacy, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL).Methods:Ninety-four individuals (75.6 ± 5.4 years) were included. Physical activity was assessed with pedometers and accelerometers. Mean steps/day, dichotomized into < 5,000 or = 5,000 steps/day, and time spent in different physical activity intensities were analyzed. Gait was assessed with a GAITRite walkway, balance performance was assessed with the modified figure-eight test and oneleg stance, falls self-efficacy was assessed with the Falls Efficacy Scale International, and HRQoL was assessed with Short Form-36.Results:Mean steps/day were 6,201 (991–17,156) and 40% reported < 5,000 steps/day. Participants with < 5,000 steps/day spent more time sedentary, had slower gait speed, poorer balance performance, and lower HRQoL than participants with ≥ 5,000 steps/day. No participants with < 5,000 met the recommended level of physical activity.

Objective: To determine the cost-effectiveness of the HiBalance training program for managing Parkinson’s disease (PD)-related balance and gait disorders. Design: Cost comparison design following the randomized controlled trial comparing a novel balance training intervention with care as usual. Subjects: A total of 100 participants with mild–moderate PD were randomized to either the intervention ( n = 51) or the control group ( n = 49). Intervention: A 10-week (three times per week), group-based, progressive balance training program, led by two physical therapists. Main outcomes: All program costs were collected for both groups. Cost-utility was evaluated using quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) and cost-effectiveness measures were the Mini Balance Evaluation Systems Test (Mini-BESTest; assessing balance performance) and gait velocity. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios were calculated and a probabilistic sensitivity analysis was conducted. Results: The between-group difference in QALYs was 0.043 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.011–0.075), favoring the intervention group. Between-group differences in balance performance and gait velocity were 2.16 points (95% CI: 1.19–3.13) and 8.2 cm/second (95% CI: 2.9–13.6), respectively, favoring the intervention group. The mean cost per participant in the intervention group was 16,222 SEK (€1649) compared to 2696 SEK (€274) for controls. The estimated incremental cost-effectiveness ratios were 314,558 SEK (€31,969) for an additional QALY, 6262 SEK (€631) for one point improvement in balance performance, and 1650 SEK (€166) for 1 cm/second increase in gait velocity. Sensitivity analyses indicated a high probability (85%) of program success. Conclusion: In terms of QALYs, the HiBalance program demonstrated a high probability of cost-effectiveness in the short-term perspective when considering the willingness-to-pay thresholds used in Europe.

Ing-Mari Dohrn,1 Lydia Kwak,2 Pekka Oja,3 Michael Sjöström,4 Maria Hagströmer1,5 1Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society (NVS), 2Institute of Environmental Medicine (IMM), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; 3UKK Institute, Tampere, Finland; 4Department of Biosciences and Nutrition (BioNut), Karolinska Institutet, 5Functional Area Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden Background: Sedentary behavior is associated with health risks in adults. The potential benefits of reducing sedentary time may be dependent not only on decrease per se, but also on the type of activity it replaces. Few longitudinal studies have investigated the effects on mortality when replacing objectively assessed sedentary time with another physical activity (PA) behavior. Objective: To investigate the effects of replacing objectively assessed sedentary time with time in light-intensity PA or moderate-vigorous PA (MVPA) on all-cause mortality, cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality or cancer mortality in a cohort with 15 years follow-up time.Methods: In total, 851 women and men from the population-based Sweden Attitude Behaviour and Change study were included. Time spent sedentary, in light-intensity PA and in MVPA were assessed using an Actigraph 7164 accelerometer. Mortality data were obtained from Swedish registers. Cox proportional hazards models estimated hazard ratios (HR) of mortality with 95% confidence intervals (CI) and isotemporal substitution models were used to estimate the effect of replacing sedentary behavior with PA for the same amount of time.Results: Over a follow-up of 14.2 years (SD 1.9) with 12,117 person-years at risk, 79 deaths occurred, 24 deaths from CVD, 27 from cancer, and 28 from other causes. Replacing 30 minutes/day of sedentary time with light-intensity PA was associated with significant reduction in all-cause mortality risk (HR: 0.89, 95% CI: 0.81-0.98) and CVD mortality risk (HR: 0.76, 95% CI: 0.63-0.92). Replacing 10 minutes of sedentary time with MVPA was associated with reduction in CVD mortality risk (HR: 0.62, 95% CI: 0.42-0.91). No statistically significant reductions were found for cancer mortality.Conclusion: This statistical modelling study suggests that replacing sedentary time with light-intensity PA could have beneficial effect on both all-cause mortality and CVD mortality. Replacing sedentary time with MVPA could reduce CVD mortality. Keywords: accelerometry, isotemporal substitution, light intensity, moderate-to-vigorous intensity, prospective, sedentary behavior

Today’s health and social care systems are facing a challenge in how to effectively address caregiving for ageing populations facing cognitive disorders and frailty. Scholars and policy makers are now identifying a rise of “hidden form of care”, e.g. informal caregiving, as a phenomenon in support for ageing populations. Across Europe for instance, the rise in the older old adult population has led to a rapid expansion of the number of carers, both professional (formal) and informal. The latter, representing mostly family members caring for their loved ones, truly represents a “hidden form of care”. This can be a problem if formal and informal caregivers are not fully integrated into the healthcare continuum or are not given a systematic support to carry out caregiving in a relevant and safe way. There is currently no comprehensive European-wide legal framework and support mechanisms, in terms of training and education for this group. CARE Campus, an EIT Health programme within the Educational Campus Pillar, is a new model of collaboration between academic institutions, the private sector, and the public sector whose main aim is to support the development of a comprehensive training for formal and informal caregivers in Europe. The initial phase of the development encompasses nine (09) online training modules with a quality control process to ensure that the curriculum is evidence-based, compliant with the national and local regulations, and addresses the needs of caregivers across Europe. The objective is to support formal, informal, and family caregivers and reduce the burden on health care systems, whilst improving the quality of care for older adults.