published_or_final_version / Social Work / Master / Master of Social Work

A mixed-methods design consisting of two phases was adopted. In Phase I, a purposive sample of 31 older Clnnese people with KOA was invited for a semi-structured interview to explore their perceptions and experiences of exercise. Five major categories emerged: typical living pattern with KOA, self-management of KOA, the practice of exercise, views about exercise, and preferences for learning exercise. The findings were used in the development of an exercise programme for this client group. / Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is prevalent in the growing older Chinese population in Hong Kong. Therapeutic exercise for KOA has strong empirical evidence of its effectiveness on reducing knee pain and physical disability in people with KOA provided that they persists in practising the recommended exercise regimen. However, few previous studies have incorporated the client's perspectives into the design of an exercise programme for promoting continual practice of exercise. This study aimed to develop a new therapeutic exercise programme and pilot its acceptability to promote continual practice for older Chinese people with KOA. / The Phase II study used both quantitative and qualitative approaches to examine participants' satisfaction with the new exercise programme, adherence to the prescribed exercises, mastering of the exercise movements and health outcomes (knee pain, stiffness and range-of-motion, physical function, muscle strength and endurance of the lower extremities, and quality of life). A convenience sample of 33 older Chinese people with KOA participated in the programme. Seven measurement tools in Chinese versions (if applicable) were used to collect quantitative data from the participants: the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), the 12-item Short Form of the Medical Outcome Study Questionnaire (SF-12), a goniometer, the Timed-Stands Test (TST), a satisfaction questionnaire, an exercise diary, and a return-demonstration performance record sheet. Six of the participants were invited for a semi-structured interview to explore their experience of the programme. / The quantitative results showed that the participants were highly satisfied with the exercise programme with a mean score of 90.15 out of 100 (SD = 8.05). Their average exercise adherence was high with a mean percentage of 91.04% (SD = 14.54) and their overall performance in mastering of the exercise movements was good with a mean score of 76.71 out of 100 (SD = 21.75). Most participants' health outcomes significantly improved at three months after the exercise programme, except for the SF-12 physical health summary score. The qualitative findings revealed four major categories: satisfaction with the exercise programme, mastering of the exercise movements, experience of the exercise's effects, and integration of the exercises into the daily routine. These findings were mainly consistent with the quantitative results of the study. / The results of this study showed that the exercise programme was acceptable to the participants in terms of satisfaction with the programme, adherence to the prescribed exercises and mastering of the exercise movements. Therefore, adopting a client-centred approach is likely to be a way forward in the development of exercise programmes for promoting continual practice of therapeutic exercise regimens by older Chinese people with KOA. / Lee, Fung Kam. / Advisers: Tak Ying Ann Shiu; Tze Fan Diana Lee; Kwok Wei Winnie So. / Source: Dissertation Abstracts International, Volume: 73-06, Section: B, page: . / Thesis (Ph.D.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 2011. / Includes bibliographical references (leaves 332-369). / Electronic reproduction. Hong Kong : Chinese University of Hong Kong, [2012] System requirements: Adobe Acrobat Reader. Available via World Wide Web. / Electronic reproduction. [Ann Arbor, MI] : ProQuest Information and Learning, [201-] System requirements: Adobe Acrobat Reader. Available via World Wide Web. / Abstract also in Chinese; some appendixes in Chinese.

Pau, Mei Lin Margaret. / Thesis (D.Nurs.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 2013. / Includes bibliographical references (leaves 130-152). / Electronic reproduction. Hong Kong : Chinese University of Hong Kong, [2012] System requirements: Adobe Acrobat Reader. Available via World Wide Web. / Abstract also in Chinese; appendixes includes Chinese.

Cheung Ho Ting Kenniss. / "Architecture Department, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Master of Architecture Programme 2005-2006, design report." / thesis statement --- p.p1-2 / background studies --- p.p3-6 / research - ideas formation --- p.p7-10 / research - tangible studies --- p.p11-14 / research - conclusion (i) --- p.p15-16 / research - intangible studies --- p.p17-19 / research - ifield trip --- p.p20-21 / research - conclusion (ii) --- p.p22-23 / deisgn concept --- p.p24-25 / site --- p.p26-31 / desighn process --- p.p32-50 / final design --- p.p51-59

Khoo, Chyi Chyi. / Thesis (M.Phil.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 2010. / Includes bibliographical references (leaves 177-204). / Abstracts in English and Chinese; appendix in Chinese. / Abstract(English version) --- p.i / Abstract(Chinese version) --- p.iii / Acknowledgements --- p.iv / List of Tables --- p.vii / List of Figures --- p.ix / List of Abbreviations --- p.x / Publications from this Thesis --- p.xi / Chapter Chapter 1 --- Introduction and Objectives / Chapter 1.1 --- Introduction --- p.1 / Chapter 1.2 --- Objectives --- p.3 / Chapter Chapter 2 --- Literature Review / Chapter 2.1 --- Definitions --- p.4 / Chapter 2.2 --- Epidemiology of Osteoporosis and Fracture --- p.5 / Chapter 2.3 --- Burden --- p.7 / Chapter 2.4 --- Osteoporosis in Men --- p.9 / Chapter 2.5 --- Risk factor of Osteoporosis --- p.11 / Chapter 2.6 --- Prediction of Osteoporosis --- p.13 / Chapter 2.7 --- Risk Factors of Osteoporotic Fracture --- p.15 / Chapter 2.8 --- Prediction of Fracture --- p.28 / Chapter 2.9 --- Difference between men and women --- p.29 / Chapter 2.10 --- DXA and Fracture --- p.31 / Chapter 2.11 --- QUS and Fracture --- p.32 / Chapter 2.12 --- pQCT and Fracture --- p.35 / Chapter 2.13 --- Self-report of Fracture --- p.37 / Chapter Chapter 3 --- Research Outline / Chapter 3.1 --- Non-spine fracture of older men --- p.39 / Chapter 3.2 --- Subjects --- p.40 / Chapter 3.3 --- Measurements of study --- p.41 / Chapter 3.4 --- Record of Fracture --- p.50 / Chapter 3.5 --- Statistical Methods --- p.51 / Chapter Chapter 4 --- Predictors of Non-spine Fracture of Hong Kong Elderly Chinese Men / Chapter 4.1 --- Introduction --- p.52 / Chapter 4.2 --- Subjects and Methods --- p.54 / Chapter 4.3 --- Results --- p.61 / Chapter 4.4 --- Discussions --- p.74 / Chapter 4.5 --- Conclusions --- p.80 / Chapter 4.6 --- Key Points --- p.81 / Chapter Chapter 5 --- Predictive values of QUS for non-spine fracture / Chapter 5.1 --- Introduction --- p.82 / Chapter 5.2 --- Subjects and Methods --- p.84 / Chapter 5.3 --- Results --- p.87 / Chapter 5.4 --- Discussions --- p.92 / Chapter 5.5 --- Conclusions --- p.97 / Chapter 5.6 --- Key Points --- p.98 / Chapter Chapter 6 --- Predictive values of pQCT for non-spine fracture / Chapter 6.1 --- Introduction --- p.99 / Chapter 6.2 --- Subjects and Methods --- p.101 / Chapter 6.3 --- Results --- p.103 / Chapter 6.4 --- Discussions --- p.109 / Chapter 6.5 --- Conclusions --- p.112 / Chapter 6.6 --- Key Points --- p.113 / Chapter Chapter 7 --- Accuracy of self-report of fracture in Asian elderly men / Chapter 7.1 --- Introduction --- p.114 / Chapter 7.2 --- Subjects and Methods --- p.115 / Chapter 7.3 --- Results --- p.116 / Chapter 7.4 --- Discussions --- p.118 / Chapter 7.5 --- Conclusions --- p.121 / Chapter 7.6 --- Key Points --- p.122 / Chapter Chapter 8 --- Conclusions / Chapter 8.1 --- Predictors of Non-spine Fracture of Hong Kong Elderly Chinese Men --- p.123 / Chapter 8.2 --- Predictive values of QUS for non-spine fracture --- p.124 / Chapter 8.3 --- Predictive values of pQCT for non-spine fracture --- p.125 / Chapter 8.4 --- Accuracy of self-report of fracture in Asian elderly men --- p.126 / Chapter 8.5 --- Strength and limitations --- p.127 / Chapter 8.6 --- Implications of the results --- p.129 / Chapter 8.7 --- Future research --- p.130 / Appendix A --- p.131 / Bibliography --- p.178

Chu Hon San, Calvin. / "Architecture Department, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Master of Architecture Programme 2010-2011, design report." / Includes bibliographical references (p. 99). / Statement --- p.2 / Context --- p.3 / Chapter 1.0 --- Background --- p.4 / Chapter 1.1 --- Ageing Population in Hong Kong / Chapter 1.1.1 --- Proportion of order person in each district / Chapter 1.1.2 --- Living arrangement of Elderly --- p.5 / Chapter 1.1.3 --- Housing Type of Elderly Living / Chapter 2.0 --- ARGUMENT --- p.6 / Chapter 2.1 --- Definition of the social space / Chapter 2.2 --- Tower-podium type housing development in HK --- p.8 / Chapter 2.3 --- Ate there enough social spaces in private housing especially for elderly? --- p.9 / Chapter 3.0 --- CASE STUDY --- p.10 / Chapter 3.1 --- Case Study: List of Comparison / Chapter 3.2 --- Case Study 1: Jolly Place L&O Architects --- p.12 / Chapter 3.2.1 --- Form / Chapter 3.2.2 --- Circulation --- p.13 / Chapter 3.2.3 --- Transparency of living unit --- p.14 / Chapter 3.2.4 --- Programmatic study --- p.15 / Chapter 3.2.5 --- Elderly need --- p.16 / Chapter 3.3 --- Case Study 2: Spittelhof Housing Peter Zumthor --- p.18 / Chapter 3.3.1 --- Form / Chapter 3.3.2 --- Circulation --- p.20 / Chapter 3.3.3 --- Transparency --- p.21 / Chapter 3.3.4 --- Elderly need --- p.22 / Chapter 3.4 --- Case Study 2: Residential Home for the Elderly Peter Zumthor --- p.24 / Chapter 3.4.1 --- Form / Chapter 3.4.2 --- Circulation --- p.25 / Chapter 3.4.3 --- Transparency --- p.26 / Chapter 3.4.4 --- Materiality --- p.28 / Chapter 3.5 --- Case Study 3: Stadtcarre ASIRarchitekten --- p.29 / Chapter 3.5.1 --- Form / Chapter 3.5.2 --- Transparency --- p.31 / Chapter 3.5.3 --- Circulation --- p.32 / Chapter 3.5.4 --- Elderly need --- p.33 / Chapter 4.0 --- SITE SELECTION --- p.34 / Chapter 4.1 --- Site Sslection: Diamond Hill in Wong Tai Sin / Chapter 4.1.1 --- Characteristics of the site / Chapter 4.1.2 --- Site study: History of Tai Horn Village --- p.37 / Chapter 4.1.3 --- Site study: Zoning --- p.38 / Chapter 4.1.4 --- Site study: Circulation --- p.39 / Chapter 4.2 --- Study on sewage treatment facilities --- p.40 / Chapter 5.0 --- DESIGN PROCESS --- p.42 / Chapter 5.1 --- Define the developer and the user / Chapter 5.2 --- Concept of'Infinity' --- p.43 / Chapter 5.3 --- Urban concept: Integrate with the surrounding --- p.44 / Chapter 5.4 --- Socially integrated housing - Defining the family --- p.47 / Chapter 5.4.1 --- Elderly only and Elderly in a family / Chapter 5.4.2 --- Non-elderly / Chapter 5.5 --- An appropriate proportion in a socially integrated housing - Living with elderly --- p.52 / Chapter 5.6 --- Socially integrated housing - Step down concept --- p.53 / Chapter 5.7 --- Socially integrated housing - Social space in the housing --- p.54 / Chapter 5.8 --- Socially integrated housing - Orientation --- p.67 / Chapter 5.9 --- Socially integrated housing - Natural Ventilation --- p.70 / Chapter 5.10 --- Plans & Section --- p.71 / Chapter 5.11 --- Model Photos --- p.90 / Reference --- p.99

published_or_final_version / Public Administration / Master / Master of Social Sciences

published_or_final_version / Social Work / Master / Master of Social Sciences

心肺功能是其中一項體能特質，而對於進行較長時間的中至高劇烈程度運動十分重要，也會影響日常活動和健康。但是，還沒有研究香港華裔長者心肺功能水平及其與體能活動參與程度和健康的關條。 / 招募對象是從現有的兩個追蹤研究來的[男女骨折研究(n=998 和884 )和頸動脈粥樣硬化研究( 191 名婦女)， 70 - 79 歲年長男士最大攝氧量的參考範圖為22.3-23.0 毫升/分鐘/公斤(95%信賴區間) , 80 歲以上為19.2-20.2 毫升/分鐘/公斤。80 歲以上女性的參考範園為17.0-18.3 毫升/公斤/分鐘， 70-79 歲為19.3-20.0毫升/公斤/分鐘， 60-69 歲為2 1. 7-23.0 毫升/公斤/分鐘和年齡55-59 歲為22 .1 -23.8毫升/公斤/分鐘。男性的心肺功能與腰圍有相關性。<.0001) ，而女性的相關性還要加上體重(p<.02) ，與年齡有關的最大攝氧量衰退在男性為0.368 毫升/公斤/分鐘/年，而女性為0 .238 毫升/公斤/分鐘/年。 / 70 - 79 歲年長男士6 分鐘步行距離的參考範圍為453.3-466 公尺， 80 歲以上為382.6-403.3 公尺。80 歲以上女性的參考範圍為333.9-357.2公尺和年齡70-79 歲為396.1-406.8 公尺。6 分鐘步行距離與腰圍、身高和學歷有相關性(p:S:.05) ，與年齡有關的6 分鐘步行距離衰退在男性為9.06 公尺/年，而女性為7.35 公尺/年。從長者活動評估量表得出的體能活動參與程度被認為是與最大攝氧量成正相關(男性:r=.241，'女性:r=.214 )和6 分鐘步行距離(男性: r=.257，女性:r=.1 84) 。長者日常步行時間越長最大攝氧量和6 分鐘步行距離較佳(p≤01) ，進行劇烈運動的女性有正常最大攝氧量的機會較高(p=.041) 。男性能符合美國運動醫學學院或香港衛生署指引的明顯比不能達到指引的有較好的心肺功能。能達到指引的男性有1. 68 倍的概率有正常的心肺功能。回溯性研究追查過去的PASE 分數與現在最大攝氧量的相關性，反應出過去的體能活動參與程度對現在的心肺功能影響隨時間減少(男性由目前回到7 年前: r=0.241、0.168、0.120; 女性: r= .214、0.106、0.069 )。 / 患有高血壓男性的最大攝氧量和6 分鐘步行距離較差(p=.014) ，曾患有心肌硬塞或心絞痛男性和糖尿病女性的6 分鐘步行距離較差(p<.04) 。最大攝氧量分別與由社區認知篩選工具評估的男性認知水平（r=.107)和男女長者憂鬱量表分數男性:r=-.112 ，女性: r=-.123) 有相關性。另一方面， 6 分鐘步行距離被發現分別與簡易智能狀態測驗p<.02) 、男性的社區認知篩選工具(p=.046)的認知級別和男女長者憂鬱量表的抑鬱狀態p<.04)有差別。 / 最大攝氧量和6分鐘步行距離的年齡調整相關性連中高程度(男性:R=.459、女性: R=.425) 。除了與最大攝氧量有滿意的相關性，6分鐘步行距離與精神健康有比較密切的相關性。6分鐘步行距離可作為香港華裔長者最大攝氧量的體能代表值。 / Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) is one of the main attributes which is important toper form moderate-to-high intensity exercise for prolonged periods which affects daily activities as well as health. However, there are no studies among HK Chinese Elders' CRF and the relationship between this important parameter of physical fitness, PA participation and health outcomes. / By recruiting subjects from two existing cohort studies, the Osteoporetic Fractures in Men & Women Study (n=998 & 884 respectively) and the Carotid Atherosclerosis Study (191 women), the reference ranges of VO₂ peak for men were 22.3-23.0ml/min/kg (95% C.I.) at age 70-79y, and 19.2-20.2 ml/min/kg at age ≥80y. Forwomen, the reference range at age ≥80y was 17.0-18.3 ml/kg/min, 70-79y was19.3-20.0 ml/kg/min, 60-69y was 21.7-23.0 ml/kg/min and for age 55-59y was22.1-23.8 ml/kg/min. Men's VO₂ peak was associated with waist circumference(WC, p<.000l) while women's VO₂ peak additionally associated with weight (p<.02).There was an age-related decline in VO₂ peak at 0.368 ml/kg/minly in men and 0.238ml/kg/minly in women. / The reference ranges of 6MWD for men were 453.3-466.6m (95% C.I.) at age 70-79y, and 382.6-403.3m at age ≥80y. For women, the reference range at age 80≥y was 333.9-357.2m and for age 70-79y was 396.1-406.8 ml/kg/min. 6MWD was associated with WC, height and education (p≤.05). There was an age-related decline in 6MWD at 9.06m/y in men and 7.35m/y in women. / Elders' participation in PA assessed by the Physical Activity Scale for Elderly (PASE), was positively correlated with VO₂ peak (r=.241 in men, r=.214 in women) and 6MWD (r=.257 in men, r=.184 in women). Elderly walked more everyday have better VO₂peak and longer 6MWD (p≤ .0l). Women did more strenuous sport had higher chance of having normal CRF (p=.041). Men who met the guidelines by American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) & Department of Health (DH), HK had better VO₂ peak than those who failed to meet that guidelines (p<.005). By following the PA guidelines, men had a 1.68-fold probability having normal CRF. A novel approach to retrospectively explore the correlation between the past PASE score and the present VO₂ peak revealed that the effect of past PA participation diminished with time (correlations for men from present, 4y and 7y ago: r=.241, .168, .120; for women r=.214, .106, .069). / Men with hypertension had significantly lower V02 peak and shorter 6MWD (p<.03). Men with history of myocardial infarction and angina also walked shorter in 6MWT while women only with diabetes had shorter 6MWD (p<.04). CRF was found to be correlated with cognitive level in men estimated by CSI-D (p<.0001) and GDS-15 score in both genders (r=-.112 in men, r=-.123 in women). On the other hand, 6MWD was found to be different across cognitive status estimated by MMSE (p<.02) & CSI-D (p=.046 in men only), and depression status estimated by GDS-15 (p<.04) in both genders. / Age-adjusted correlation between VO₂ peak & 6MWD was moderately high (R=.459 in men; R=.425 in women). In addition to the satisfactory correlation with VO₂ peak, stronger associations were found 6MWD, cognitive and mental health. It was suggested 6MWD might be a feasible surrogate for VO₂ peak as a physical fitness measure among HK Chinese elderly. / Detailed summary in vernacular field only. / Detailed summary in vernacular field only. / Detailed summary in vernacular field only. / Detailed summary in vernacular field only. / Detailed summary in vernacular field only. / Yau, Chung Fai Forrest. / "December 2011." / Thesis (Ph.D.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 2012. / Includes bibliographical references (leaves 215-237). / Electronic reproduction. Hong Kong : Chinese University of Hong Kong, [2012] System requirements: Adobe Acrobat Reader. Available via World Wide Web. / Abstract also in Chinese; appendix in Chinese. / ABSTRACT (IN ENGLISH) --- p.I / ABSTRACT (IN CHINESE) --- p.IV / ACKNOWLEDGEMENT --- p.VI / LIST OF CONTENTS --- p.VII / LIST OF TABLES --- p.XII / SELECTED ABBREVIATIONS --- p.XV / Chapter 1 --- BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES --- p.1 / Chapter 1.1 --- INTRODUCTION --- p.1 / Chapter 1.2 --- OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY --- p.3 / Chapter 1.3 --- OUTLINES OF THE THESIS --- p.4 / Chapter 2 --- LITERATURE REVIEW --- p.6 / Chapter 2.1 --- ELDERLY POPULATIONS --- p.6 / Chapter 2.1.1 --- Health --- p.6 / Chapter 2.1.1.1 --- Hypertension, Coronary Heart Disease & Stoke --- p.8 / Chapter 2.1.1.2 --- Diabetes --- p.10 / Chapter 2.1.1.3 --- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease --- p.11 / Chapter 2.1.1.4 --- Cognitive Function --- p.12 / Chapter 2.1.1.5 --- Depression --- p.13 / Chapter 2.2 --- THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PA & HEALTH --- p.15 / Chapter 2.2.1 --- Participation in PA --- p.22 / Chapter 2.2.1.1 --- PA Recommendation --- p.24 / Chapter 2.2.2 --- Indirect Estimation ofPA Participation --- p.25 / Chapter 2.2.2.1 --- Physical Activity Scale for Elderly. --- p.26 / Chapter 2.3. --- PHYSICAL FITNESS & HEALTH. --- p.28 / Chapter 2.3.1 --- Definition of Physical Fitness. --- p.28 / Chapter 2.3.1.1 --- Cardiorespiratory Fitness --- p.30 / Chapter 2.3.2 --- Direct Assessment of Physical Fitness --- p.33 / Chapter 2.3.2.1 --- Cardiopulmonary Exercise Test --- p.33 / Chapter 2.3.2.1.1 --- Affordable Device for CPET --- p.35 / Chapter 2.3.2.2 --- Six Minutes Walk Test --- p.36 / Chapter 3 --- MATERIALS & METHODS --- p.39 / Chapter 3.1 --- SUBJECTS --- p.39 / Chapter 3.1.1 --- Subjects Source --- p.39 / Chapter 3.1.1.1 --- The Osteoporetic Fractures in Men & Women Study --- p.39 / Chapter 3.1.1.2 --- Carotid Atherosclerosis Study --- p.40 / Chapter 3.1.2 --- Follow up Situation --- p.40 / Chapter 3.1.3 --- Ethical Consideration --- p.41 / Chapter 3.2 --- INSTRUMENTATION --- p.41 / Chapter 3.2.1 --- Questionnaire --- p.41 / Chapter 3.2.1.1 --- Medical History --- p.41 / Chapter 3.2.1.2 --- Smoking Habit --- p.41 / Chapter 3.2.1.3 --- Cognitive & Mental Health --- p.42 / Chapter 3.2.1.3.1 --- Cantonese Mini Mental State Examination & Community Screening Instrument for Dementia --- p.42 / Chapter 3.2.1.3.2 --- Geriatric Depression Scale-15 --- p.42 / Chapter 3.2.1.4 --- Physical Activity Scale for Elderly --- p.43 / Chapter 3.2.1.5 --- Veteran Specific Activity Questionnaire --- p.44 / Chapter 3.2.2 --- Physical Measurements --- p.45 / Chapter 3.2.2.1 --- Height, Weight & Fat Percentage --- p.45 / Chapter 3.2.2.2 --- Waist, Hip Circumferences & WHR --- p.45 / Chapter 3.2.2.3 --- Blood Pressure --- p.45 / Chapter 3.2.2.4 --- Electrocardiograph --- p.46 / Chapter 3.2.3. --- Fitness Tests --- p.46 / Chapter 3.2.3.1 --- Cardiopuhuonary Exercise Test --- p.46 / Chapter 3.2.3.1.1 --- Exclusion Criteria --- p.46 / Chapter 3.2.3.1.2 --- PreTest Consideration --- p.47 / Chapter 3.2.3.1.3 --- Test Sequence & Measures --- p.48 / Chapter 3.2.3.1.4 --- Test Tennination Criteria --- p.49 / Chapter 3.2.3.2 --- Six Minutes Walk Test --- p.50 / Chapter 3.2.3.2.1 --- Six Minute Walk Test Sequence --- p.50 / Chapter 3.3 --- STATISTICS --- p.52 / Chapter 3.3.1 --- Description of Variables --- p.52 / Chapter 3.3.2 --- General Statistical Method --- p.53 / Chapter 3.3.3 --- Comparison between VO₂ peak & 6MWD Relationship with other Variables --- p.54 / Chapter 4 --- RESULTS --- p.56 / Chapter 4.1 --- RESPONSE & PARTICIPATION OF SUBJECTS --- p.56 / Chapter 4.2 --- DEMOGRAPHIC PROPERTIES --- p.63 / Chapter 4.2.1 --- Men --- p.63 / Chapter 4.2.2 --- Women --- p.68 / Chapter 4.2.3 --- Sample Representativeness --- p.71 / Chapter 4.2.4 --- Physical Measurements --- p.75 / Chapter 4.2.4.1 --- Peak Oxygen Uptake --- p.75 / Chapter 4.2.4.2 --- Correlations with Demographic Properties --- p.82 / Chapter 4.2.4.2.1 --- Mean VO₂ peak in Different WC Status --- p.83 / Chapter 4.2.4.2.2 --- Reference Range across Age Groups 98 --- p.84 / Chapter 4.2.4.2.3 --- Mllltivariat Analysis of VO₂ peak --- p.86 / Chapter 4.2.4.3 --- Six Minutes Walk Test --- p.88 / Chapter 4.2.4.3.1 --- UnivariateAnalysis with Demographic Properties --- p.90 / Chapter 4.2.4.3.2 --- Mean 6MWD by WC Status --- p.92 / Chapter 4.2.4.3.3 --- Reference Range by Age Groups --- p.92 / Chapter 4.2.4.3.4 --- Multivariate analysis of 6MWD --- p.94 / Chapter 4.2.5 --- Physical Activity Scale for Elderly --- p.96 / Chapter 4.2.5.1 --- Univariate Analysis with Demographic Properties --- p.97 / Chapter 4.2.5.2 --- Reference Range across Age Groups --- p.98 / Chapter 4.2.5.3 --- Reference Range of PASE --- p.99 / Chapter 4.2.5.4 --- Multivariate Analysis of PASE --- p.100 / Chapter 4.2.6 --- Cognitive & Mental Scores --- p.101 / Chapter 4.2.6.1 --- Community Screening Instrument for Dementia --- p.101 / Chapter 4.2.6.2 --- Mini-Mental State Examination --- p.102 / Chapter 4.2.6.3 --- Geriatric Depression Scale-15 --- p.103 / Chapter 4.3 --- CORRELATIONS OF CRF TESTS --- p.104 / Chapter 4.3.1.1 --- Relationship between 6MWD & VO₂ peak --- p.104 / Chapter 4.3.1.1.1 --- Pearson Correlation between 6MWD & VO₂ peak --- p.104 / Chapter 4.4 --- CRF & LIFESTYLES --- p.106 / Chapter 4.4.1 --- How PA correlates with CRF --- p.107 / Chapter 4.4.1.1 --- Relationship between PASE& VO₂ Peak --- p.107 / Chapter 4.4.1.1.1 --- Pearson Correlation between PASE & V02 peak. --- p.107 / Chapter 4.4.1.1.2 --- Mean VO₂ peak by Quartiles of PASE --- p.109 / Chapter 4.4.1.1.3 --- Mean PASE scores by VO₂ peak status --- p.110 / Chapter 4.4.1.1.4 --- Relationship between PASE leisure activities & VO₂ peak --- p.111 / Chapter 4.4.1.1.5 --- Time spent daily on PASE leisure activities by VO₂ peak status --- p.113 / Chapter 4.4.1.2 --- Relationship between PASE & 6MWD --- p.116 / Chapter 4.4.1.2.1 --- Mean 6MWD by Quartiles of PASE --- p.118 / Chapter 4.4.2 --- Relationship between CRF & Recommended PA Guidelines --- p.119 / Chapter 4.4.2.1 --- ACSM Guidelines --- p.119 / Chapter 4.4.2.2 --- HKDH Guidelines --- p.121 / Chapter 4.4.3 --- Does PASE in the Past Predict Present Maximal Oxygen Uptake --- p.122 / Chapter 4.4.3.1 --- Pearson Correlation between PASE at 3y before & Present VO₂ peak --- p.122 / Chapter 4.4.3.2 --- Pearson Correlation between PASE at 7y before & Present VO₂ peak --- p.124 / Chapter 4.5 --- CRF & HEALTH --- p.126 / Chapter 4.5.1 --- CRF & Physical Health --- p.126 / Chapter 4.5.1.1 --- Relationship between VO₂ peak & Medical History --- p.126 / Chapter 4.5.1.2 --- Relationship between 6MWD and medical history --- p.129 / Chapter 4.5.1.2.1 --- Mean 6MWD of men by chronic diseases --- p.130 / Chapter 4.5.1.2.2 --- Mean 6MWD of women by diabetes --- p.134 / Chapter 4.5.1.3 --- Comparison between VO₂ peak & 6MWD relationship with medical history --- p.135 / Chapter 4.5.2 --- CRF & Cognitive Function --- p.137 / Chapter 4.5.2.1 --- Relationship between MMSE& VO₂ Peak --- p.137 / Chapter 4.5.2.1.1 --- Pearson Correlation betweenMMSE & VO₂ peak --- p.137 / Chapter 4.5.2.1.2 --- Mean VO₂ peak by MMSE Status --- p.139 / Chapter 4.5.2.2 --- Relationship between MMSE & 6MWD --- p.141 / Chapter 4.5.2.2.1. --- Pearson Correlation between MMSE & 6MWD --- p.141 / Chapter 4.5.2.2.2 --- Mean 6MWD by MMSE category --- p.143 / Chapter 4.5.2.3 --- Relationship between CSID & VO₂ peak --- p.144 / Chapter 4.5.2.3.1 --- Pearson Correlation between CSID & VO₂ peak --- p.144 / Chapter 4.5.2.3.2 --- Mean VO₂ peak by CSID Classification --- p.146 / Chapter 4.5.2.4 --- Relationship between CSID & 6MWD --- p.147 / Chapter 4.5.2.4.1 --- Pearson Correlation between CSID & 6MWD --- p.147 / Chapter 4.5.2.4.2 --- Mean 6MWD by CSID Classification --- p.149 / Chapter 4.5.2.5 --- Comparison between VO₂ peak & 6MWD relationship with Cognitive Function --- p.150 / Chapter 4.5.2.5.1 --- Pearson Correlation between MMSE & 6MWD --- p.151 / Chapter 4.5.2.5.2 --- Mean 6MWD by MMSE category --- p.151 / Chapter 4.5.2.5.3 --- Pearson Correlation between CSID & 6MWD --- p.152 / Chapter 4.5.2.5.4 --- Mean 6MWD by CSID Classification --- p.153 / Chapter 4.5.3 --- CRF & Depression --- p.154 / Chapter 4.5.3.1 --- Relationship between GDS & VO₂ peak --- p.154 / Chapter 4.5.3.1.1 --- Speannan Correlation between GDS & VO₂ peak --- p.154 / Chapter 4.5.3.1.2 --- Logistic Regression Analysis --- p.154 / Chapter 4.5.3.2. --- Relationship between GDS & 6MWD --- p.156 / Chapter 4.5.3.2.1. --- Spearman Correlation between GDS & 6MWD --- p.156 / Chapter 4.5.3.2.2. --- Mean 6MWD by depression status. --- p.156 / Chapter 4.5.3.3. --- Comparison between VO₂ peak & 6MWD relationship with GDS --- p.158 / Chapter 4.5.3.3.1. --- Pears on Correlation between GDS & 6MWD --- p.158 / Chapter 4.5.3.3.2. --- Mean 6MWD by depression status --- p.158 / Chapter 5 --- DISCUSSION --- p.160 / Chapter 5.1 --- INTERPRETATION OF RESULTS --- p.160 / Chapter 5.1.1 --- Physical Fitness --- p.160 / Chapter 5.1.1.1 --- Cardiorespiratory Fitness --- p.160 / Chapter 5.1.1.1.1 --- Mode for CPET --- p.160 / Chapter 5.1.1.1.2 --- Criteria for VO₂ peak --- p.161 / Chapter 5.1.1.1.3 --- Reference Range of VO₂ peak among HK elderly --- p.164 / Chapter 5.1.1.1.4 --- Age Related Decline in VO₂ peak --- p.169 / Chapter 5.1.1.1.5 --- Repeatability of Measurements using FitMate[superscript TM] Pro --- p.170 / Chapter 5.1.1.1.6 --- Smoking --- p.170 / Chapter 5.1.1.2 --- Six Minutes Walk Test --- p.171 / Chapter 5.1.1.2.1 --- Reference Range of 6MWD among HK Elderly --- p.172 / Chapter 5.1.2 --- How Estimated PA Level Correlated to CRF --- p.173 / Chapter 5.1.2.1 --- CRF &PA --- p.174 / Chapter 5.1.2.2 --- CRF & Leisure Activities --- p.176 / Chapter 5.1.3 --- Elderly CRF of those who met Recommended PA Guidelines --- p.177 / Chapter 5.1.4 --- Could Past PA Participation Predict Present CRF --- p.180 / Chapter 5.1.5 --- Health --- p.181 / Chapter 5.1.5.1 --- Physical Health --- p.181 / Chapter 5.1.5.2 --- Dementia --- p.185 / Chapter 5.1.5.2.1 --- Community Screening Instrument for Dementia --- p.186 / Chapter 5.1.5.2.2 --- Mini-Mental State Examination --- p.188 / Chapter 5.1.5.2.3 --- Possible Mechanisms of Cognitive Decline & Benefits ofPA --- p.191 / Chapter 5.1.5.3. --- Depression --- p.193 / Chapter 5.1.5.3.1 --- Possible Mechanism of Depression & Benefits of PA --- p.197 / Chapter 5.1.6 --- 6MWD, a Better Physical Fitness Surrogate than VO₂ peak --- p.200 / Chapter 5.2 --- LIMITATIONS AND STRENGTH --- p.205 / Chapter 5.3 --- FUTURE STUDIES --- p.210 / Chapter 6 --- CONCLUSION --- p.211 / Chapter 7 --- REFERENCES --- p.215 / APPENDIX --- p.238

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia. As the prevalence of AD increases with age, population aging will inevitably lead to an exponential increase in the proportion of older persons suffering from this disease. According to 2005 WHO estimate, 26.6 million people (approximately 0.55% of the general population) suffered from this disease. AD not only affects intellectual and functional abilities, it is also associated with significant neuropsychiatric disturbances. The pathogenesis of AD is characterized by widespread cerebral atrophy, abnormal deposition of amyloid plaques and tau protein in the central nervous system. While the classical histopathological features of AD are well recognized, exact physiological mechanisms that initiate the cascade of neural degeneration are still under active investigation. / As mentioned, the telomere length studies focused on ethically Chinese subjects recruited from two independent samples. The first clinical sample consisted of 411 older people and the other sample from healthy aging study, 976 community dwelling men were recruited. All subjects were assessed with the Cantonese version of the Mini-mental State Examination (CMMSE) for global cognitive function. Genomic DNA of the subjects was extracted from the peripheral whole blood sample. Lengths of the telomere were measured with Quantitative Real-Time PCR and the Ct ratio of the telomere and a control gene (36B4) of each sample was compared with the standard curve constructed with 4 selected sample's telomere lengths measured previously by Southern blotting. / For the first association study of the cell cycle checkpoint genes and AD, sample was recruited from a prospective study of cognitive function and risk factors for development of AD. 701 elderly were clinically evaluated for diagnosis of AD by psychiatrists. For this sample, genotyping of tagging SNPs of the 10 cell-cycle checkpoint genes were carried out by Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP) analysis. All tagging SNPs were selected from HapMap database and 5000bp upstream and downstream regions of each gene was also included. / For the results, the association study with cell cycle checkpoint genes, there was no SNPs found to be associated with diagnosis of clinical AD. We also found out that telomere length was associated with age in both two healthy aging men and clinical samples. There was no association between education and telomere lengths. For subjects in the healthy aging study, participants with CMMSE scores fell into the lowest 25% were found to have shorter telomere lengths. Similar result was found in the clinical AD sample. / In the study, telomere lengths were negatively associated with age. As the telomere will be shortened for each cell cycle, this finding correlated with physiological function at a cellular level. Statistical analysis also showed that shorter telomere lengths were found in subjects with poorer cognitive function. However, as age is a major determinant for cognitive impairments, further studies are recommended to evaluate the interaction effects of age in this association. Telomere shortening will cause cell senescence, and may be associated with faster neuronal degeneration, thus affecting cognitive function. Further studies should be conducted to examine its usefulness as an adjuvant biomarker for risk stratification of AD intervention trials. / Recent researches begin to unfold the physiological significance of telomere. A telomere is a repetitive region at the end of a chromosome. Basic functions of telomeres are involved with protection of the chromosome during replication and preventing chromosomal rearrangement or fusion. Abnormal telomere lengthening may be related to cancerous conditions. At a cellular level, telomere may also be related to aging and limitation in cell lifespan. In my study, I aimed to evaluate the association between the lengths of telomere and global cognitive function in community dwelling Chinese older persons in Hong Kong. As the length of telomere is also determined by the turnover rates of cells, apart from association study of telomere lengths and cognitive function, I also tried to study the association of genes related to cell cycles and AD. Polymorphisms of ten cell-cycle checkpoint genes, i.e. RB1, CDKN1A, CDK5R1, CDK2AP1, CDKN2A, CDKN2C, MDM2, P53, GSK3B, TPND1 and CDKN1B genes, were chosen in my project. / The thesis comprised of three studies. The first study was an association study of cell cycle checkpoint gene single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with clinical diagnosis of AD. The second study was an association study of telomere lengths and clinical diagnosis of AD in a clinical sample of patients suffering from the disease. The third study was an association study of the telomere lengths and global cognitive status in a group of active community dwelling older men who participated in a healthy aging study. / Lau, San Shing. / Adviser: Linda C.W. Lam. / Source: Dissertation Abstracts International, Volume: 73-01, Section: B, page: . / Thesis (Ph.D.)--Chinese University of Hong Kong, 2010. / Includes bibliographical references (leaves 101-124). / Electronic reproduction. Hong Kong : Chinese University of Hong Kong, [2012] System requirements: Adobe Acrobat Reader. Available via World Wide Web. / Electronic reproduction. [Ann Arbor, MI] : ProQuest Information and Learning, [201-] System requirements: Adobe Acrobat Reader. Available via World Wide Web. / Abstract also in Chinese.