Browsing by Subject "Physical activity"
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Item A closer examination of neighborhood economic context : do neighborhood economic histories influence child health behaviors?(2018-05) Kim, Yeonwoo, Ph. D.; Cubbin, Catherine; Padilla, Yolanda; Calzada, Esther; DiNitto, Diana; Osborne, CynthiaChild obesity is a critical health issue given that a third of U.S. children are overweight or obese and obese children are at increased risk of adverse health conditions in adulthood. Researchers have examined neighborhood economic context in relation to children’s obesity and obesity-rated health behaviors. Yet, few studies have examined neighborhood economic histories associated with child obesity-related behaviors or the effects of macroeconomic downturns on child obesity-related behaviors. This three article dissertation aims to advance current knowledge on the neighborhood-child obesity relationship in the U.S. by focusing on three areas. The first article reviews prior literature to summarize empirical findings on the effect of neighborhood economic context on child obesity and obesity-related behaviors. The review indicated several limitations in past literature: 1) using self- or parental reported indicators of health behaviors; 2) using a point in-time measure of neighborhood economic context; 3) using an index of neighborhood economic context without justification to include the particular economic measures; 4) lack of testing mediators or moderators, although conceptual frameworks often described potential mediators or moderators; and 5) lack of consideration of how macroeconomic context interacts with neighborhood contexts. The second article examines associations between neighborhood economic histories and child obesity-related behaviors. Findings showed that living in neighborhoods characterized by long-term moderate or high poverty, and poverty increase was associated with higher odds of physical activity among poor children, but was associated with lower odds of physical activity among non-poor children. Living in neighborhoods characterized by poverty decrease (presumably, gentrified neighborhoods) was associated with healthier dietary habits among non-poor children; however, it was not applicable to poor children. The third article investigates the impact of the Great Recession on food in the home environment through its association with neighborhood economic context. Findings reported that adverse neighborhood economic changes after the Great Recession were spatially concentrated in poor neighborhoods and that poor families living in neighborhoods most negatively affected by the Great Recession had higher odds of unhealthy home food environments. Research and policy implications regarding neighborhood-child obesity relationships are also discussedItem An ecological-based approach to examining barriers and facilitators of a physical activity intervention(2016-08) Errisuriz, Vanessa Leigh; Bartholomew, John B.; Pasch, Keryn E; Jowers, Esbelle M; Cance, Jessica D; Springer, Andrew ETexas I-CAN! promotes physical activity (PA) among elementary school children by incorporating 10-15 minute, physically-active, academic lessons into the classroom. A socioecological approach to evaluate effectiveness could provide a deeper understanding of mechanisms promoting or hindering PA. Three studies examined the impact of implementation quality on child PA during active lessons. Teachers from 20 schools self-reported attitude and perceived behavioral control (PBC) related to implementation, and perceptions of school climate. Staff observed teacher feedback to students during active lessons and student PA. Student PA was also measured objectively (i.e. accelerometry). Before examining how teacher-level factors interact to impact student PA, foundational work was necessary. First, several mathematical cut-points have been developed to classify PA intensity among children. Though research indicates that cut-point selection impacts classification of PA among children aged 6-10 years, this has not demonstrated with school-specific PA. Study 1 demonstrated that cut-point selection impacts estimates of in-school PA intensity and students meeting PA guidelines. Second, quality of process (i.e. teachers’ ability to engage students in intervention programs) has been linked to program implementation. Study 2 examined associations between teacher feedback during lessons and staff-rated, class PA intensity. Positive associations between PA-related feedback (i.e. reinforcement, technical instruction) and PA intensity were found. Technical instruction was positively associated with how often and how many students were active during lessons. Negative feedback was inversely related to these outcomes. Study 3, then, examined the interrelatedness of quality of process (i.e.PA-related feedback), teacher-level data (i.e. attitudes, PBC, perceptions of school climate), and implementation dose, and their impact on objectively-measured student PA using structural equation modeling. PA-related feedback and dose were positively associated with PA intensity. PBC and attitude towards implementation were positively related to dose. Perception of higher quality school climate was associated with greater PBC and poorer attitudes. PBC was positively, and attitudes negatively, associated with PA-related feedback. Results may inform optimization of future physically-active academic lesson interventions. Identification of factors that impact implementation of active lessons provides opportunities to tailor teacher trainings to focus on these important factors and to intervene if implementation begins to wane during intervention periods.Item Classroom physical activity and cognitive function among children(2017-08-14) Beddoes, Zack, 1981- E; Castelli, Darla M., 1967-; Harrison, Louis; Keating, Xiaofen; Beighle, AaronIn an era of declining physical activity (PA) among children, schools are positioned to provide PA opportunities within and beyond the school day. The recent call for greater alignment between education and health outcomes within a whole-of-school approach positions the classroom as a possible place to increase children’s PA. Along with health benefits, PA has been associated with increased cognitive performance in children. However, research on the relationship of classroom PA and cognition in a classroom setting has received little attention. Therefore, within this dissertation, three studies were conducted and together represent a process evaluation for using PA videos in classrooms. Study 1 investigated the implementation strategies and the number and intensity of PA opportunities offered by classroom teachers. Mixed methods, including interviews, observations, accelerometers, and survey measures were utilized to identify teacher profiles for classroom PA implementation. Findings suggest three distinct teacher profiles in offering PA in the classroom. Study 2 explored the effects of an acute bout of classroom PA on cognitive components of executive function (EF) and math performance. Students completed cognitive tasks measuring math performance, the speed of information processing and cognitive flexibility (Trail Making Test; TMT-A, TMT-B) and working memory (visual memory task) pre/post exercise. No group differences were detected between high and low-intensity groups. Study 3 examined the cognitive effects of sustained classroom PA. Children’s cognitive assessment scores (mathematics, TMT-B, visual memory) in high- and low-usage PA classrooms were compared over the school year. Children in classrooms consisting of high-usage PA demonstrated significantly greater improvement in mathematics performance compared to their peers in the lower-usage group. Taken together, findings from this dissertation suggest that many teachers are initially apprehensive about classroom PA, yet some have overcome fears of implementation and now offer students multiple bouts of daily PA. Frequent PA opportunities across a school year may improve children’s perception of class climate and performance on specific cognitive tasks.Item Coactivation in sedentary and active older adults during maximal power and submaximal power tasks : activity-related differences(2010-05) Newstead, Ann Hamilton; Jensen, Jody L.; Abraham, Lawrence D.; Dingwell, Jonathan B.; Korff, Thomas; Shewokis, Patricia A.; Spirduso, Waneen W.As adults age, they lose the ability to produce maximal power and speed of movement. Success in daily living is often dependent upon power and speed. Thus these age-related decrements in performance can reduce physical independence and quality of life. An active lifestyle in older adulthood is associated with more successful aging. The purpose of this research program was to define the link between habitual activity and performance, specifically in regard to activities requiring power and speed. The hypothesis was that active older adults, compared to sedentary older adults, would be characterized by greater power production in maximal- and submaximal-effort tasks. Grouping older adults by activity level, coactivation was associated with activity level. Functional tasks are performed with a range of power requirements. Coactivation was used to distinguish groups in a maximal power task (Study 1) and submaximal power tasks (Study 2). In Study 1, the young adults demonstrated a greater maximal power than the older adults. While maximal power was not different between the older active and sedentary groups, the groups did differ on how they created maximal power. The active older adults produced a greater coactivation in the lower leg muscles compared to the older sedentary adults. In Study 2, the active older adults responded to different speeds during a submaximal power task with greater coactivation in the muscles of the lower leg at slow speeds compared with the sedentary older adults. Both older adults groups increased coactivation in the thigh muscles at high speeds. The sedentary older adults responded to speed with increased coactivation in the lower leg at fast speeds. The active older adults increased proximal thigh coactivation, EMG index, at the fastest speed compared with the sedentary older adults. Both older adult groups showed muscle activation adaptation to the change in task demands. The results of this dissertation increase our understanding about the link between physical activity and performance. Age-related differences in coactivation were observed during both maximal and submaximal tasks. Activity-related differences were observed suggesting the active older adults have a greater capability to adjust muscle activity to meet the challenges of community living.Item Combatting childhood obesity in zip code 78745 through opportunities for free physical activity(2014-12) Nolley, Rachel Hood; McCray, Talia M.The worldwide obesity epidemic is cause for alarm because of its link to major, life threatening diseases such as cardiovascular disease and Type 2 diabetes. Not only adults, but also children, are suffering from increasing rates of overweight and obesity. This is a matter of serious concern not just because of the specific diseases that are affecting growing numbers of children, but also because overweight and obesity in childhood greatly increase the likelihood that those children will be obese as adults. The incidence of childhood obesity in Texas is significantly higher than the U.S. average. One of the two Austin, Texas zip codes with the highest rates of childhood obesity is zip code 78745. A coalition of concerned residents, government representatives, nonprofit leaders, and religious activists known as Go Austin!/Vamos Austin! (GAVA) has spearheaded an initiative to combat childhood obesity in the zip code. One of GAVA’s three foci is physical activity. This professional report analyzes the physical activity opportunities for children in 78745 through free, publicly available recreation facilities and green spaces. It identifies those spaces that are closest to the childhood obesity hotspots and recommends actions that can be taken by the city, the school district, nonprofits, area businesses, and local residents to increase physical activity among area children through existing and proposed opportunities.Item Diet and related behaviors of low-income, overweight women in early postpartum(2009-05) Shah, Bijal Sanghani; Freeland-Graves, Jeanne H.The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of diet and physical activity behaviors on weight status and lipid profiles in low-income women in early postpartum. In addition, the relationship of nutrition knowledge with dietary intakes was evaluated. A convenience sample of low-income mothers was recruited from public health clinics, community centers, and doctor's offices. Inclusion criteria was Hispanic, African American, or Caucasian ethnicity; body mass index (BMI) [greater-than or equal to] 25 kg/m², low-income (annual household income <185% federal poverty line); parity<3 and ability to speak and write English. Demographic, dietary (24-hr recalls and 2 day food intake recalls), psychosocial, anthropometric, serum lipids (LDL, HDL and total cholesterol and triglycerides) and physical activity (pedometer steps) data were collected. For study 1, the Healthy Eating Index-2005 (HEI-2005) scores were computed as a measure of diet quality in a sample of 125 women. Analysis of Covariance and linear regression was performed to determine the relationship between HEI-2005 and serum lipids. The mean total index score of the sample was 51.4 and was associated inversely with BMI ([beta]=-0.117), LDL ([beta]=-.659) and total ([beta]=-.690) and positively with HDL ([beta]=.216) (P<0.05). Less than 20% of the sample failed to meet the recommendations for fruits, total vegetables, whole grains and oil and 60% had overconsumption of solid fats, alcohol and added sugars. In study 2, snacking frequency and choices of 134 postpartum women were evaluated. Influence of snacking frequency on HEI-2005 scores and disparities in snack choices by BMI categories was assessed by performing ANCOVA. A majority of the sample (82%) consumed snacks and the most favored snack group was sweets and desserts. Increase in snacking frequency was associated with higher mean total HEI-2005 scores, and total fruit, dark green vegetables and legumes, total grains, and saturated fat (P<0.05) component scores when adjusted for energy intakes. Snacking frequency was also associated with higher intakes of protein, vitamins A and C, and calcium (P<0.05). In study 3, 66 new mothers participated and completed an 8-week weight loss intervention promoting exercise by using pedometers. Paired t test revealed improvement in physical activity after intervention. Linear regression analysis determined the ability of pedometer steps to predict weight loss ([beta]=0.465), % body fat ([beta]=-0.316), triglycerides ([beta]=-0.549), LDL ([beta]=-0.391) and total cholesterol ([beta]=-0.418). In study 4, a nutrition knowledge scale was developed and validated in new mothers. Knowledge was associated with greater consumption of grains, low fat meats and dairy (P<0.01), fiber (p<0.01), calcium (p<0.001), and iron (p<0.05). Participants appeared to be more cognizant of information about vitamins and minerals and weight management and less of energy nutrients and calorie counting. Hierarchical regression model identified age, education, ethnicity and income as determinants of knowledge.Item Effect of autonomy on children’s moderate to vigorous physical activity, enjoyment, and competency during high-intensity interval training in physical education(2020-06-22) Burford, Kathryn Gray; Bartholomew, John B.; Jowers, Esbelle MariePURPOSE: Little is known about children’s enjoyment and competency with HIIT during school, and no efforts have been made using Self-Determination Theory (SDT) to make school based, HIIT interventions more accepted by children. The purpose of this study is to describe children’s physical activity levels, enjoyment, and competency of HIIT within a SDT framework (autonomy) in elementary school physical education (PE) classes. The study will further explore children’s enjoyment and competence towards high intensity, low intensity, and strength activities. METHODS: Participants were 402 children from one diverse elementary school (49.4% female, 21.1% Latino or Hispanic, 59.6% white). Student enjoyment and competency were collected from each child following teacher (non-autonomous) and student led (autonomous) conditions. 201 children wore accelerometers to measure moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA). Enjoyment and competency were assessed for each activity type (high, strength, and low). ANALYSIS: The primary hypotheses were assessed through a series of 2-way ANOVAs; 2 (condition) x 2 (sex) x 4 (grade), with repeated measures on the first factor (condition). A 4 (grade) by 2 (sex) MANCOVA on enjoyment and competence for type of activity (high, strength, low). RESULTS: Children significantly enjoyed (M=4.52, SD=0.87) and felt more competent (M=4.45, SD=0.74) during the autonomous HIIT condition compared to the nonautonomous HIIT condition, (M=4.08, SD=1.09; M=4.36, SD=0.80); percent MPVA was significantly lower in the autonomous condition (M=41.89, SD=12.16) compared to the nonautonomous condition (M=54.77, SD =11.51). Females enjoyed low intensity activity significantly (M=4.56, SD =0.55) more than males (M=4.38, SD =0.69) and males enjoyed high intensity (M=4.17, SD =0.72) and strength activities (M=3.96, SD =1.01) significantly more than females (M=3.95, SD =0.75; M=3.67, SD =1.11). CONCLUSION: Girls across grades tended to enjoy lower intensity activity, while boys enjoyed high intensity and strength activities. In addition, the inclusion of choice to provide a sense of autonomy increased enjoyment of HIIT, which was associated with competence, but lowered physical activity intensity. These data can be used to inform the design of school based, HIIT interventions.Item Effects of cardiovascular risks and acute exercise on cognitive and brain functioning in young adults(2016-08) Calvert, Hannah Grace; Castelli, Darla M., 1967-; Bartholomew, John; Haley, Andreana; Maslowsky, JulieCardiovascular disease (CVD) is characterized by damage to the vasculature, leading to impaired blood circulation. This damage is related to structural deficits in the brain as well as decreased cognitive performance. Risks for CVD are more common among young adults now than in previous generations of this cohort. While associations between CVD states and cognition are well studied, little is known about how risk factors for CVD may influence cognitive functioning in young populations. Physical activity engagement is one potential method for decreasing CVD risks and improving cognitive performance. The purpose of this dissertation was to examine the effects of CVD risks and acute exercise on cognitive and neural outcomes in young adults. A sample of 100 young adults aged 18-30 was recruited for this study. Participants underwent a blood draw, an aerobic fitness assessment, and a cognitive battery. A subset was randomly assigned to exercise (n=40) and control (n = 31) groups to examine the effects of a bout of exhaustive exercise on cognitive function. On separate a day, participants (n=17) engaged in a moderate intensity acute exercise with cognitive and functional neuroimaging assessments at baseline and post-exercise. In the first study, cross-sectional analyses revealed that young adults who possessed three or more risks for CVD had significantly inferior performance on cognitive tests requiring incongruent processing compared to their peers with no identified CVD risks. Participants who engaged in a bout of acute exhaustive exercise had increased cognitive performance post exercise compared to resting controls, in the second study. In study three, an acute bout of moderate intensity exercise had no effects on neural activation in the overall sample of participants. However, blood pressure moderated the effects of acute exercise on neural activation such that pre-hypertensive individuals experienced a differential increase in task-related brain activation after exercise in several brain regions. Young adults who possess several CVD risk factors may already be experiencing subtle decrements to their executive functioning, specifically during incongruent tasks. Short bouts of exercise produce cognitive benefits in this population and also increase brain activation during executive functioning tasks in those who have several CVD risks. Findings from these three studies have public health implications as regular engagement in moderate to very vigorous physical activity has cognitive benefits related to the prevention of age-related cognitive impairments.Item Effects of physical activity intensity and task complexity on behavioral and hemodynamic responses in civilians and military personnel(2018-05) Skinner, Dakota Butler; Castelli, Darla M., 1967-; Stone, AudreyIntroduction: Physical activity and exercise training positively enhance cognitive performance across all age-levels. Military personnel undergo intense physical training. Currently, there is a paucity of research in this population in respect how their training may impact executive function measures. Functional near infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) is an emerging low-cost, noninvasive neuroimaging technique sensitive enough to detect both cognitive load and state and is suitable for measuring cerebral oxygenation changes during both motor and/or cognitive behavioral tasks. The purpose of this study was to determine both behavioral and hemodynamic changes in the prefrontal cortex over varying task complexities and physical activity intensities between civilians and military personnel. Methods: Seventeen healthy individuals (age = 25.6 ± 2.3 years, BMI = 24.2 + 2.3; n= 12 male, n= 5 female, n= 6 military personnel) were recruited to participate in the study. Participants completed a cognitive battery (Erikson Flanker, Switcher, and Delayed- Match-to-Sample tasks) recording accuracy and reaction time both before and after physical activity conditions. Participants also completed six conditions of varying physical intensities (sit, stand, walk) and cognitive complexities (low: congruent; high: incongruent). During the congruent conditions, participants struck green objects, not red. During the incongruent conditions, participants struck red objects, not green. Independent sample t-tests were used to compare accuracy, reaction time, and HbO₂ concentration across physical activity conditions and pre- post-exercise cognitive tasks between Military and Civilians. Results: Physical activity conditions were validated using heart rate data. Both groups experienced significantly greater improvements in all cognitive tasks prepost-test in reaction time, with little differences between groups. Both groups also experienced improvements in both accuracy and reaction time during the physical activity conditions as the intensity increased, with little differences between groups. Higher HbO₂ concentrations during the pre-cognitive tasks relative to the post-cognitive tasks was observed, with no significant difference between groups. Discussion: fNIRS modalities are a valid measure of cerebral HbO₂ concentration changes in the prefrontal cortex before, during and after physical activity in the laboratory setting using a virtual reality system. The findings of this study need to be replicated and the methods applied to different samples of the populationItem Effects of physical activity on cognition in persons with multiple sclerosis(2016-12-06) Morrison, Janet Dwight; Stuifbergen, Alexa, 1955-; Becker, Heather A; Brown, Sharon A; Brown, Adama; Haley, Andreana P; Motl, Robert WMultiple sclerosis (MS), the most common neurological disease among young adults, has an unpredictable course characterized by disparate motor, sensory, and cognitive symptoms. Over half of those with MS experience significant cognitive impairment that adversely impacts role functioning and employment. Since few treatment options exist, research relating physical activity to better cognitive performance in older adults provided support for a comparable linkage between greater physical activity and better cognitive functioning in persons with MS. The purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility and effects of a physical activity program on measures of clinical cognitive function, perceived cognitive abilities and concerns, and neurocognitive function in everyday life in ambulatory adults with MS experiencing cognitive problems. This quasi-experimental study investigated the effects of a six-month long program of combined aerobic exercise and strength training that met twice weekly for 60-minutes to an attention-control condition of stretching and relaxation that similarly met twice-a-week for 60 minutes for six months. The sample (N=16) of persons with MS consisted of mostly married, White, non-Hispanic females aged 31 to 58 with average disease duration of 11.5±8.3 years and average EDSS score of 4.5±1.1. This dissertation study provided initial evidence of the feasibility of a nurse-led community-based physical activity intervention. While no statistically significant interactions, between or within-group effects were found in this small sample size study, effect sizes were observed that might be used in future studies examining the effect of physical activity on cognitive function in persons with MS.Item Effects of time of day of a physical activity lesson on classroom behavior in elementary school children(2007-08) Grieco, Lauren Alexis; Bartholmew, John B.Optimal learning times exist for children during the school day, thus it is important to examine the factors that may modify learning. The ability of a child to control his behavior in the classroom is important to learning and academic performance. Physical activity is important for health but may also modify behavior. Through strategic placement of physically active lessons during the school day, academic performance through on-task focus may be optimized. The purpose of this study was to examine the differential effects of time of day and physical activity on the behavioral control of third grade children. Students (N=137) were observed before and after an active or control lesson in the morning and in the afternoon. A three-way (pre- vs. post-observation x time of day [morning vs. afternoon] x lesson type [active vs. control]) repeated measures analysis of variance compared time on task between observation periods. Results indicated a significant difference in time on task during the afternoon between the active and control lessons. Specifically, children significantly improved their on task focus during the afternoon upon following an active lesson when compared to controls. Thus, physically active lessons are useful in improving on-task behavior in the afternoon during subsequent academic lessons.Item Enabling adult physical activity at parks with a focus on physical design elements(2010-05) Christoph, Ali Suzanne; Sletto, Bjørn; Kohl, Harold W.This report studies the built environment of Civitan Park, located in Austin, Texas. Through studying and observing how park design can influence adults’ ability to engage in daily physical activity, alternative design recommendations are suggested for Civitan Park in order to create a park more able to be used by adults for physical activity and in turn, decrease obesity rates.Item Exercising change : investigating the changes in physical activity of undergraduate students(2012-12) O'Connor, Megan Diane; Keating, Xiaofen; Worthy, Mary JoWhen it comes to researching the physical activity levels of college students, there seem to be very few studies that truly depict and show the ranges of physical activity throughout a college student’s life. This statement has helped propelled me to collect and analyze data in order to see what the physical activity is like for an undergraduate college student at the University of Texas. Researchers have discovered that many college students have reported understanding the benefits of physical activity, but that they report that there are many barriers in their daily life that thrust physical activity into the backseat as a priority (Lopez, Gallegos, & Extremera, 2010). Knowing that some college students will ignore physical activity, regardless of the health-related benefits, urges us to further discover the attitude of college students towards physical activity and what factors seem to have the most affect, whether positively or negatively, when it comes to their decisions on physical activity. Many university students decrease their PA levels (Gyurcsik, Bray, & Brittain, 2004; Keating et al., 2005; McArthur & Raedeke, 2009). Knowing this, I seek to answer the question, “What happens to the levels of physical activity throughout an undergraduate student’s life and what are the contributing factors to their level of physical activity?” Researchers noted that a healthy college-aged student should be participating in at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity at least 5 days per week (Nelson, 2007). My thesis is an analysis of daily and weekly activity, as well as what kinds of physical activity college students like and do not, the way in which they participate, either independently or with friends, as well as where they partake in physical activity. My subjects answered questions based on their physical activity levels throughout their college years. The subjects ranged between first and fifth year undergraduate students, which allowed me to get some insight as to how their physical activity levels have changed throughout the duration of their college careers.Item Health promotion : predicting physical activity in normal weight and overweight rural adolecents(2014-05) McAdams, Cynthia Ann Brooks; Rew, Lynn; García, Alexandra Anne, 1964-; Brown, Adama; Brown, Sharon A; Walker, LorraineAdolescent obesity is ubiquitous and is often antecedent to adverse physical and psychosocial health outcomes. Physical activity is a leading modality for preventing and treating overweight and obesity. A modified resilience framework was used in this study to examine six empirically supported risk factors for physical inactivity and low activity (i.e., body mass index, media use, parental activity, Hispanic ethnicity, minority race, and female sex) along with moderating protective resources (i.e., sense of ethnic identity, health awareness, and social connectedness). The study sample consisted of 251 adolescents, in Grades 8 and 9, recruited from three rural and economically disadvantaged school districts in the southwestern U.S. Data were retrieved from the Longitudinal Health Risk Behaviors in Youth (LongHerby; Grade 8) and Developing Health Behaviors in Middle Adolescence (DHBMA; Grade 9) databases for this secondary analysis of extant longitudinal data. One parent of each participant contributed data used in the study. Demographic analysis revealed the sample was mostly of female sex (56%), White race (81%), and non-Hispanic ethnicity (55%). A descriptive, correlational design was used to examine relationships among variables. Data analysis included correlation, linear regression, and hierarchical multiple regression techniques. The findings showed the outcome of physical activity in Grade 8 was the most statistically significant predictor of physical activity in Grade 9, using two different measures for the outcome (i.e., the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance Scale [YRBSS] and the Adolescent Lifestyle Questionnaire [ALQ]). Two hierarchical multiple regression models explained 20% (YRBSS) and 21% (ALQ) of the variances in adolescent physical activity practices with female sex (R2Δ = .101, p < .001; YRBSS) and health awareness (R2Δ = .114, p < .001; ALQ) contributing the largest proportion to the hierarchical variances. Body mass index percentiles were not correlated with physical activity (YRBSS or ALQ), but did show a small inverse correlation with female sex (r = -151, p = ≤ .005) and a small positive relationship with Hispanic ethnicity (r = .168, p = ≤ .001). Findings of this study are congruent with previous research and could be used in planning health promotion strategies to improve adolescent physical activity.Item How do children spend their time? : a quantitative analysis of physical activity in children on the autism spectrum(2010-05) Leandro, Ana Carolina; Jensen, Jody L.; Castelli, DarlaAutism spectrum disorder (ASD) is pervasive neurodevelopment disorder characterized by a broad range of social abnormalities and deficit in motor skills, many times referred to as clumsiness. These abnormal social characteristics result in a restricted repertoire of activity and interests that also may affect the motor learning process. Therefore, fewer opportunities to practice motor skills can lead to a delay in achieving motor proficiency. It is well known that physical activity and motor proficiency are positively correlated and the amount of time spent in a physical activity is directly related to the level of expertise in neurotypical children. Hence, the specific aim of this study is to quantify the amount of physical activity in children with ASD and compare this value to that of non-diagnosed siblings (ASD siblings) and neurotypical controls (NT), as well as to compare the amount of physical activity between neurotypical controls and ASD siblings. In this study, it was hypothesized that: 1) children with ASD would have lower scores than their non-diagnosed sibling and also than the NT controls in the amount of physical activity; 2) non-diagnosed siblings and neurotypical children would not be different in the amount of physical activity; 3) children with ASD's general score on the motor skills assessments would be lower than the non-diagnosed siblings and lower than NT controls; 4) There would not be a difference in the general score on motor skills assessments between non-diagnosed siblings and neurotypical children and 5) the motor assessments scores would be positively correlated (p < 0.05) to the amount of physical activity. There were differences between ASD and NT groups regarding to the amount of physical activity and also regarding to the motor proficiency scores. Although those differences were not statistically significant, they definitely are clinically relevant as showed that the children on the autism spectrum presented a clear motor delay. Likewise, the correlation between amount of physical activity and motor proficiency was showed not to be significant. These results can be explained by the small sample size. Further studies with a larger sample size would be crucial to verify these hypotheses proposed in the present study.Item Human capital : survey development, adolescent perceptions and correlates(2017-05) Bryant, Lynne, Ph. D.; Castelli, Darla M., 1967-; Hughes, Joan E; Harrison, Louis; Jowers, EsbelleThis study sought to investigate the saliency of Human Capital (HC), a set of six positive assets as contributors to the overall health, well-being and success of an adolescent population. Furthermore, given the mediating potential of individual attributes, this study also examined the role of gender, age and context. PURPOSE: Comparing the perceived human capital (HC), as a set of positive assets, among adolescents and the influence of educational experiences on the development of HC. Secondarily, this research investigated the predictive characteristics of individual characteristics such as gender, age, and context on perceived HC. METHODS: Focus groups & interviews were conducted with adolescents, teachers, and teacher educators to establish content validity and relevance to adolescents in the development of the HC survey. Repeated measures were used to test the reliability of the survey and exploratory factor analysis confirmed the presence of 6 factors including emotional, physical, intellectual, social, individual, and financial were identified as subscales of HC. Construct validity was examined through confirmatory factor analysis and 1312 (Mage 15.6, 40% female) adolescents completed the HC survey. Hierarchical regression was run to identify predictors of HC and ANOVAs were run on total capital by age, gender, and ethnicity to compare means and interactions. RESULTS: Qualitative data from the interviews and focus groups were open coded, and teacher’s emergent themes were 1) Developing HC knowledge, 2) Supporting the big picture, 3) Human capital, and 4) Power of opportunity. Teachers and adolescents were very interested in the topic of HC. In hierarchical regression, the model was statistically significant F(5,903)=33.24, p<.000, R²=.155, Adjusted R²=.151. Based on structure coefficients, the best indicator of total HC described in the model was free lunch followed by gender. Age was also shown to be a predictor of total HC as total HC increased as adolescent ages advanced. Ethnicity was statistically significant demonstrating that Hispanic adolescents’ perceptions of HC were lower than all other ethnicities in total HC. CONCLUSION: Schools and communities have daily access to adolescents and the power to provide positive HC building experiences through opportunities before, during, and after schoolItem Interpersonal influence on physical activity : mediation by psychological factors and moderation by personal characteristics(2010-05) Ripperger-Suhler, Kenneth Grant; Chalip, Laurence Hilmond, 1951-; Gottlieb, Nell H.; Bartholomew, John B.; Steinhardt, Mary; Kohl, Harold W.; Mirowsky, JohnThe primary purpose of the study was to identify relationships among sources of interpersonal influence, putative psychological mediators, and physical activity. The moderation of these relationships by age, body composition, and educational attainment was also evaluated. Responses from 1224 employees were collected through an online survey at a major healthcare facility in central Texas. Structural equation modeling was used to construct the Social Context Scale of Interpersonal Influence and to estimate its ability to explain intention to be physically active and predict physical activity behavior. Invariance testing provided estimates of moderation by age, education, and body composition. Home social context was positively associated with self-efficacy and positive anticipated outcomes and negatively associated with negative anticipated outcomes. Friend social context was positively associated with self-efficacy, positive anticipated outcomes, and intention. Teasing was positively associated with negative anticipated outcomes. Self-efficacy and positive anticipated outcomes were positively associated with intention. Negative anticipated outcomes were negatively associated with intention. The relationship between friend social context and both positive anticipated outcomes and intention was stronger for obese than non-obese respondents. Home social context was more strongly associated with self-efficacy for those with four year degrees than for those without. Self-efficacy was more strongly associated with intention for those with four year degrees than for those without. Self-efficacy predicted subsequent total leisure time physical activity and the relationship was stronger for respondents over 45 years of age than for those younger than 45. The association between self-efficacy and subsequent total leisure time physical activity was also stronger for respondents with a four year degree than for those without. Home and friend social contexts provide potential conduits for post intervention influence on physical activity behavior. The discussion of the benefits of physical activity among friends may encourage overweight and obese individuals considering exercise, especially those with limited physical activity experiences of their own.Item Investigating environmental factors that contribute to disparities in utilization across different sections of a 10-mile urban trail(2014-05) Mount, Sarah Elizabeth; Bartholomew, John B.The purpose of this study was to identify barriers that contribute to a disparity in utilization across different segments of an urban trail. To achieve this aim, subjective ratings of trail characteristics for high-use areas (western sections of the trail) were compared to subjective ratings of lower-use areas (eastern sections of the trail). These ratings were compared between those who reported primarily traveling the western, high-use sections vs. those who primarily travel the eastern, low-use sections. Data were collected through self-report and a cross-sectional analysis based on sections of primary use. Ratings for each trail characteristic from an online survey were compared for different trail segments as a function of these groups. Comparisons were conducted through ANOVA and showed that perceptions of trail characteristics varied strongly as a function of which sections of the trail were used most by the respondents. Users of the high-traffic, western sections held significantly more negative views of the eastern sections. In contrast, users of the low-traffic, eastern sections held similar views of the eastern and western sections. Objective measurements of trail characteristics were conducted on all six segments of trail to compare to user perceptions. A trail count and researcher evaluation/audit of all trail characteristics provided data for comparison. A descriptive analysis of the differences between trail user perceptions and objective measures was reported. The trail count and survey results showed similar patterns of usage. The western sections exhibited the highest number of trail users representing 80% of the people on the trail. The central sections contained 14% and the eastern sections 6%. Mode of travel observed was 94% walking or running and 6% cycling. In addition, these numbers are similar to those of the earlier, pilot study (TEMBA, 2011). Given the similarities between the online survey, and both the objective trail count for usage and the earlier TEMBA study, it is hoped that the online sample is representative of the population of regular trail users. A comparison of subjective and objective ratings revealed different patterns of agreement depending on east vs. west group membership. Overall, west users are misinformed about crime and amenities on the east side but are in general agreement on other characteristics. This suggests that their concerns about trail continuity, directional clarity, and loop options may be warranted. Overall, east users showed general agreement with objective measures on the west side except for exposure to traffic, which they rated more poorly than objective measures.Item Investigation of the effects of physical activity on executive function in the early childhood setting(2017-05) Barcelona, Jeanne Marita; Castelli, Darla M., 1967-; Bartholomew, John; Beighle , Aaron; Duncan Cance, Jessica; Brown , ChristopherHealth is essential for children’s cognitive and physical development, yet often is undermined in school environments. Research indicates the use of physical activity within the school environment as a protective factor, ultimately diminishing obesity and augmenting student health outcomes (Sallis et al., 1993; Sallis et al., 1999). Further, research evidence such as that physical activity (PA) is a facilitator of executive functioning among children (Davis et al., 2011; Diamond & Lee, 2011). The purpose of this dissertation was to elucidate the role of PA on executive function in early childhood. A sample of 210 children and 23 teachers participated in this series of three studies. In study one, children completed a psychosocial survey and engaged in a short duration, acute bout of PA. Teacher participants completed a survey investigating their perceptions of the classroom environment. Analyses revealed that student perceptions of enjoyment while participating in PA are significantly related to time spent in moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA), and that teacher perceptions of classroom environment are a significant predictor; inversely associated with student time spent in MVPA. The second study, utilized a repeated measures research design to investigate the effect of PA on executive function and found that type of PA significantly contributed to cognitive performance. Participants who danced for approximately five minutes had increased accuracy and faster response time over participants engaged in aerobic or yoga activities. The attentional performance also significantly increased for dance participants as compared to those involved in aerobic and yoga. In study three, path analyses explored main and mediating effects of PA on psychosocial, environmental and cognitive variables. Although all PA did not significantly mediate EF, there were significant main effects for both dance and aerobic PA on cognition in early childhood. As a means of preventing disease and enhancing cognitive health, short bouts of PA hold value in the pre-school classroom as they enhance executive functioning, which subserves learning. Findings from these three studies are of public health interest as we find that classroom PA engagement is a critical factor to the health and academic success of the whole child.
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