ASSOCIATION OF HEALTH RISK BEHAVIORS AND ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT AMONG COLLEGE FRESHMEN Vickilyn Barnot, PhD University of Pittsburgh, 2005 The purpose of this research was to explore the association between priority health risk behaviors and academic achievement among college freshmen. Priority health risk behaviors have been defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as those health risk behaviors that contribute to the leading causes of death, illness, and social problems among young adults in the United States including tobacco use; alcohol and other drug use; unhealthy dietary behaviors; inadequate physical activity; sexual behaviors that result in sexually transmitted diseases, and/or unintended pregnancies; and behaviors that result in unintentional and intentional injuries. The primary aims of this study were: 1) to determine which of the priority health risk behaviors have the strongest independent association to academic achievement and 2) to determine the association between the number of priority health risk behaviors engaged in by college freshmen and end-of-first-term academic achievement. This study was descriptive in nature and employed a cross-sectional study design. A total of 196 first semester freshmen completed the CDCs National College Health Risk Behavior Survey (NCHRBS) to assess risk in each priority health risk behavior category. In addition, participants answered several supplemental questions designed to assess additional health behaviors and general academic background information. For each priority health risk behavior, key questions were chosen for analysis and a cut point was used to classify each respondent as either at risk or not at risk. Upon completion of their first term of study, participant survey responses were matched with their end-of-first-term QPA. Results of independent t-tests to assess the relation between each priority health risk behavior and academic achievement revealed a significant association to QPA for tobacco use (p = 0.05) and binge drinking (p = 0.02). Results of a subsequent stepwise regression revealed no significant effect for tobacco use or binge drinking on QPA when additional covariates such as SAT score, high school class rank and number of missed classes were included in the analysis. Results of a simple linear regression found no significant relation (p = 0.12) between number of risk behaviors and QPA.

The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the influence of a 6-week group exercise intervention in the adjunctive treatment of depression. A total of thirty-one subjects were recruited from WPICs Bellefield Clinic of the Adult Service Line and the surrounding community. Subjects were between the ages of 25 and 60 years, had a diagnosis of depression (dysthymic disorder, major depressive disorder, depressive disorder not otherwise specified, or bipolar disorder) according to the DSM-IV by a licensed therapist, and were enrolled in a standardized outpatient treatment program consisting of antidepressant medication and psychotherapy. Subjects were randomly assigned to either a 6-week exercise group intervention or a social control group (stress coping intervention). Groups were matched for group exposure, meeting for one hour, two nights a week. The IDS-SR was used to assess changes in depressive symptoms as a result of the intervention at 0 and 6-weeks. Additionally, the Q-LES-Q and the Revised UCLA Loneliness Scale were used to assess changes in quality of life and feelings of loneliness, respectively, as a result of the intervention at 0 and 6-weeks. The main hypothesis was that subjects randomized to the group exercise intervention would experience a significant decrease in depressive symptoms, as assessed by the IDS-SR, and a significant increase in quality of life, as assessed by the Q-LES-Q, when compared to the social control group. An additional hypothesis was that subjects in the group exercise intervention and the social control group would experience a significant and equal decrease in feelings of loneliness as assessed by the Revised UCLA Loneliness Scale. Statistical analysis included separate two-way (group x time) repeated measures ANOVA to determine between and within group mean differences on the IDS-SR, Q-LES-Q, and the Revised UCLA Loneliness Scale. Results indicated that subjects in the group exercise intervention and the social control group experienced a decrease in symptoms of depression, whereas no significant differences in either group for quality of life or feelings of loneliness were found. Results were the same for the intent-to-treat analysis and the non-intent-to-treat analysis. It was concluded that social interaction may have contributed to the positive findings concerning symptoms of depression.

The purpose of this study was to examine the association between environmental correlates and physical activity (PA) levels in young adults. The sample consisted of 369 females and 315 males, aged 24-30 years (84% white; 14% black). Physical activity (hrs/wk) averaged over the past year and number of days of vigorous PA was assessed by questionnaire. Proximity to recreational facilities, home exercise equipment, neighborhood characteristics, and barriers to physical activity were also assessed by questionnaire. Gender-specific analyses were conducted to compare mean scores for each environmental correlate across quartiles of total physical activity and across level of vigorous physical activity. Gender-specific analyses were conducted to examine the odds of a barrier being reported across quartiles of total physical activity and across level of vigorous physical activity. After adjusting for all potential covariates, in females, home exercise equipment was significantly related to vigorous physical activity (OR=1.26, 95% CI=1.10-1.42), and in both genders, proximity to recreational facilities (p=0.005 in males; p=0.012 in females) and home exercise equipment (p<0.001 in males; p<0.001 in females) were significantly associated with total physical activity. In males, a lack of good weather (OR=2.88, 95%CI=1.12-7.42) and a lack of facilities (OR=4.43, 95%CI=1.47-13.37) were significantly associated with an insufficient amount of vigorous physical activity, and a lack of equipment and facilities were negatively related to total physical activity. In conclusion, environmental correlates and barriers significantly influence leisure-time physical activity in young adults.

There is some evidence that eating periodicity is inversely associated with the onset of obesity. Eating periodicity in obese individuals engaging in weight loss efforts has not been well studied. The purpose of this study was to examine the pattern of eating periodicity in obese adults engaging in weight loss efforts, and to examine the relationship between eating periodicity and subsequent changes in body weight. Seventy five sedentary overweight adults were recruited to participate in this study. Individuals were considered eligible if they were 18 to 55 years of age with a body mass index of 25.0 to 39.9 kg/m2. The subjects for this study were part of a 20-week sub-investigation of an ongoing 18-month clinical weight loss trial. Subjects were weighed at 0, 12, and 20-weeks, and were instructed to complete daily food logs that included the frequency of eating episodes. Analysis revealed significant weight loss of -6.3 ± 4.3 kg (-6.6 ± 4.2 %) from baseline to week 12 (n=63; p < 0.01), with weight loss of -8.6 ± 5.8 kg (-9.2 ± 5.8 %) observed from baseline to week 20 (N = 55; p < 0.01). Analyses indicated significant inverse correlations between total meals and snacks consumed and absolute body weight change at 12- and 20-weeks (-0.39 and -0.40, respectively, p<0.05), indicating that an increase in meal periodicity was associated with a lower body weight. However, eating periodicity was not significantly associated with absolute or relative magnitude of weight loss. This study demonstrated a significant, inverse correlation between meal periodicity and absolute body weight. These findings may be important because they may suggest eating periodicity can influence body weight by allowing for the maintenance of a lower body weight.

THE EFFECTIVENESS OF A COMPUTER AND INTERNET-BASED SYSTEM IN A SHORT-TERM BEHAVIORAL WEIGHT LOSS INTERVENTION Kristen M. Polzien, PhD. University of Pittsburgh, 2005 Computer and Internet-assisted weight loss interventions offer alternative delivery channels that might increase program appeal and potentially increase weight loss success. To date research focused on these innovative techniques is limited. PURPOSE: To examine the effectiveness adding a technology-based intervention component to an in-person, 12-week clinically-based behavioral weight loss intervention. METHODS: Fifty-seven subjects (body mass index = 33.1+/-2.8 kg/m2; age = 41.3+/-8.7 yrs) participated in a 12-week intervention with random assignment to Standard Behavioral Program (SBWP), Intermittent Technology-Based Program (INT-TECH), or Continuous Technology-Based Program (CON-TECH). SBWP received an individual weight loss session at weeks 1-4, 6, 8, and 10, prescribed a diet of 1200-1500 kcal/d, and exercise progressing from 20-40 min/d on 5 days/wk. INT-TECH and CON-TECH received the components of SBWP, however, these groups also used a SenseWear Pro Armband (BodyMedia, Inc.) to monitor energy expenditure and a web-based program to monitor eating behaviors. INT-TECH used these features during weeks 1, 5, and 9, with CON-TECH using these features throughout the 12-week intervention. Outcomes included body weight, percent body fat, and cardiorespiratory fitness. RESULTS: Fifty subjects completed the investigation (88%). Intent-to-treat analysis revealed weight loss of 4.1+/-2.8 kg (4.6 +/-2.8%), 3.4+/-3.4 kg (3.8+/-3.8%), and 6.2+/-4.0 kg (7.1+/-4.6%), for the SBWP, INT-TECH, and CON-TECH groups, respectively (CON-TECH greater than INT-TECH, p less than/equal to 0.05). Percent body fat was significantly decreased in CON-TECH (-4.1+/-2.9%) when compared to both SBWP (-1.6+/-1.5%) and INT-TECH (-1.6+/-1.7%) (p less than/equal to 0.05). Cardiorespiratory fitness significantly increased in all groups by 14%, 3%, and 5% in SBWP, INT-TECH, and CON-TECH, respectively; p less than 0.01), with no significant group differences. CONCLUSIONS: Results indicate that a technology-based program that is used continuous over a 12-week intervention and is complimentary to a clinically-based in-person intervention improves weight loss by approximately 3% compared to a SBWP that does not use these technology features or by approximately 3.7% compare to INT-TECH uses the technology features only intermittently during the intervention. Considering these short-term results, future studies should examine the impact of adding these technology features to a SBWP on long-term weight loss outcomes, and for whom technology-based programs are most effective.

THE COMPARISON OF THE MAX JONES QUADRATHLON WITH THE VERTICAL JUMP AND WINGATE CYCLE TESTS AS A METHOD TO ASSESS ANAEROBIC POWER IN FEMALE DIVISION I COLLEGE BASKETBALL PLAYERS Kory A. Stauffer, PhD University of Pittsburgh, 2005 The purpose of this study was to determine whether a significant relation existed between the Max Jones Quad test and two established anaerobic power tests in female Division I basketball players. A secondary purpose was to develop models to predict: 1. Anaerobic power (as measured by the Wingate cycle and vertical jump tests) using anthropometric measures and components of the Max Jones Quadrathlon 2. Basketball performance from anaerobic power (as determined by the Vertical Jump, Wingate cycle, and Max Jones Quadrathlon tests). Thirteen members of the University of Pittsburgh Womens Division I basketball team were recruited for this investigation and had the support and approval of the University of Pittsburgh Department of Athletics, head womens Basketball Coach, and strength and conditioning coach. The womens basketball team met for testing on three separate days. On the first day, anthropometric measurements and the vertical jump test were performed. Peak and mean anaerobic power were determined using equations based on each subjects individual vertical jump height in centimeters (cm), body mass in kilograms (kg), and height in centimeters (cm). On the second day, the Max Jones Quadrathalon Test was performed, which consists of four stations: 1) standing broad jump, 2) 3 consecutive broad jumps, 3) overhead shot put toss, and 4) 30 meter sprint. The standing broad jump, 3 consecutive broad jumps, and overhead shot put toss were measured in meters (m) and centimeters (cm), while the 30 meter sprint was timed in seconds. On the third and final day, the subjects performed the 30-second Wingate cycle ergometer test. Peak and mean anaerobic power, as well as the fatigue index (percent change) over the 30-seconds, were calculated by a computer program during the test. Relationships between the Max Jones Quadrathlon total score and anaerobic power determined by the Vertical Jump and Wingate cycle tests were not significant. A significant relationship was found between anaerobic power on the Wingate cycle test and the 30 meter sprint (p<0.05), but with no other components of the Max Jones Quadrathlon for either anaerobic power test. Additionally, correlations between vertical jump height and Max Jones Quadrathlon components were found to be significant (p<0.05 and p<0.01). Models to predict anaerobic power from anthropometric measures and Max Jones Quadrathlon components and models to predict basketball performance from anaerobic power were created. Several equations for each case were deemed significant (p=0.000) for predicting either anaerobic power or basketball performance in female players. This was the first study comparing the Max Jones Quadrathlon to established tests to measure anaerobic power. The preliminary results of the present study did not establish a relationship between the Wingate Cycle and Vertical Jump Tests and the Max Jones Quadrathlon. There exists a need to explore updated and sport specific measurement techniques.

There are limitations to current portable technology to estimate energy expenditure (EE), which may limit the accuracy when applied to free-living individuals. The KAL-X SensorTM (Lifechek, LLC, Pittsburgh, PA) uses heat flux technology to estimate EE. The accuracy of this device has not been assessed across levels of body mass index (BMI). The purpose of this study was to examine the validity of the KAL-X SensorTM to measure EE across different modes and intensities of physical activity. Twenty-four subjects (age = 33.8 ± 8.5 yr, BMI = 27.55 ± 3.9 kg/m2) performed two exercise (treadmill walking, stationary cycling) sessions with each lasting 30 minutes. Walking included three 10-minute progressive intervals of 2.5 mph, 0%; 3.0 mph, 0%; and 3.0 mph, 5%. Cycling included three 10-minute progressive intervals of 50 rev/min, 0.5 kg; 60 rev/min, 0.5 kg; and 60 rev/min, 1.0 kg. The criterion measure of EE was indirect calorimetry (IC). A KAL-X SensorTM was placed on the upper arm and at the level of the xyphoid process. EE during 30 minutes of walking for the KAL-X SensorTM (arm sensor = 94.5 kcal, chest sensor = 100.9 kcal) was significantly lower than EE measured using IC (166.5 kcal) (p<0.05). EE during 30 minutes of cycling for the KAL-X SensorTM (arm sensor = 76.4kcal, chest sensor = 90.1 kcal) was significantly lower than EE measured using IC (138.0 kcal) (p<0.05). The level of BMI did not affect the pattern of results, nor did arm circumference or skinfold measured at the bicep or tricep. These results indicate that there are limitations of the KAL-X SensorTM to provide an accurate estimate of EE during walking and cycling exercise. Additional research is needed to determine the accuracy of the KAL-X SensorTM to estimate EE during other forms of exercise, lifestyle activity, and free-living activity.

CHANGE IN BODY WEIGHT AND BODY COMPOSITION ON MUSCULAR STRENGTH AND FUNCTION IN OVERWEIGHT ADULTS K.A. Weary, K.M. Polzien, A.D. Otto, J.M. Jakicic, FACSM. Physical Activity and Weight Management Research Center, Department of Health and Physical Activity. University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261 PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between the changes in body weight and lean body mass with changes in muscular strength and function in overweight and obese adults before and after a 12 week weight loss intervention. METHODS: Fifty-seven overweight adults (age = 41.3 + .87 years; BMI = 33.1 + 2.8 kg/m2; % body fat = 42.4 + 3.8 %) participated in this study. Forty eight subjects completed the 12 week weight loss intervention consisting of behavioral counseling. Subjects were instructed to reduce energy intake to 1200 to 1500 kcal/d and to increase exercise to 30 to 40 min/d on 5 d/wk. Participants completed assessments of body weight, body composition using the BIA method, muscular strength (1-RM chest press, 1-RM leg extension, grip strength), and physical function (sit-to-stand) at baseline and following the 12-week intervention. RESULTS: Paired sample T-tests revealed a significant decrease in body weight, lean body mass, 1-RM chest press, and 1-RM leg extension (p<0.05), with no significant change in grip strength from baseline to 12-weeks (see Table 1). However there was a significant increase in physical function (sit-to-stand score) from baseline to 12-weeks (p<0.05) (Table 1), with the significant relation observed for percent change in body weight and the change in physical function (r = 0.35; p<0.05). Table 1. Baseline 12 Weeks Change p-value Weight (kg) 88.4 + 9.1 83.2 + 9.6 5.2 + 3.4 <0.001* LBM (kg) 50.9 + 4.9 50.1 + 4.7 0.8 + 1.7 0.002* 1-RM chest (kg) 27.65 + 6.7 25.35 + 6.4 2.3 + 4.2 0.003* 1-RM leg (kg) 35.9 + 11.8 30.9 + 10.1 4.9 + 11.4 <0.001* Grip Strength (kg) 32.1 + 6.3 31.6 + 6.6 0.5 + 6.4 0.36 Sit-to-Stand 14.5 + 3.4 15.6 + 4.6 1.1 + 3.8 0.05* * Indicates significance at p<0.05 CONCLUSION: The observed reduction in body weight was associated with a concurrent reduction in LBM and muscular strength. However, these reductions did not negatively impact physical function, but rather were accompanied by an increase in physical function. This increase in physical function may impact quality of life, and demonstrates the additional benefits of promoting weight loss in overweight and obese adults.

This primarily qualitative research study examined the views of first and second year nursing students regarding leisure and its relationship to health. Thirty-two nursing students reflected on their own lived experiences of leisure by completing an on-line survey. Three of the students added depth to the initial survey results by completing the Leisure Attitude Measure (LAM) and participating in a focus group. This study examined how the nursing students understood the concept of leisure and the connection between leisure and health. As well, it explored the implications that this understanding has on Therapeutic Recreation (TR) professionals as they conduct advocacy and education sessions on the field of TR with other members of the interdisciplinary health care team.<p> The students responses were analyzed using an inductive technique with themes emerging from the data. As a group, the students responses touched on many of the components of leisure and connections to health outlined in the literature. However, individual responses were often missing key aspects related to the subjectivity of leisure, the holistic nature of leisure and the potential of leisure and TR in contributing to the treatment of patients. The responses suggest a number of implications for TR professionals as they prepare and deliver educational and advocacy sessions for other staff. From a broader sense, the data raise some areas worth considering in terms of the potential for leisure education within educational and societal contexts.

Since Pine and Gilmore (1999) proclaimed the arrival of the experience economy era, research on tourists’ experiences has become an area of growing interest among scholars and practitioners. Gaining knowledge of the experiential features of tourist activities at historic sites and museums is of paramount importance for tourism operators to understand and satisfy tourists’ widely ranging needs. With this concern in mind, the purpose of this study was to develop a multiple-item scale to measure tourists’ experiences of visiting historic sites and museums. To reach this goal, a questionnaire survey was designed to gather data about tourists’ experiences in this context. Conducted at Fuzimiao (Confucius Temple) in Nanjing city, Jiangsu province, China, in the Summer of 2012 (starting in July and ending in August), the visitor survey had an overall response rate of 88%. A total of 500 questionnaires were used for data analysis. Following the scale construction procedure suggested by DeVellis (2003), first, the literature examining experience constructs was comprehensively reviewed. An initial pool of scale items was generated. Followed by a review from six judges to ensure content validity, a total of thirty items were developed as a basis for measuring tourists’ experiences. Subsequently, the scale’s reliability was assessed with using Cronbach’s alpha value. Alpha was 0.80. The statistical results of the ranked scale item mean show that the top rated experiences of tourists visiting Fuzimiao are “change from work”, “get away”, “relaxing”, “entertainment”, “watch music and dancing performance”, and “chat with locals”. To refine the scale, 11 items that show significantly low corrected item-total correlation scores were eliminated. Deleting these items resulted in an increase in the alpha value from 0.80 to 0.88. The rest items which survived the reliability analyses were subject to exploratory factor analysis (EFA). An interim six-factor model emerged, with the remaining 19 items accounting for 80.29% of the total variance. The six factors were entertainment, culture identity-seeking, education, exploration, relationship development, and escapism. Given the underlying latent variable structure detected from EFA, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was performed to check the proposed measurement structure. Results of the CFA indicate that the measurement model fits the data adequately after the exploration factor was removed from the hypothetical model because measurement structure of this factor was unidentified. The evaluation of the model’s composite reliability, convergent validity and discriminant validity provides good evidence of the reliability and validity of the five factors. The final experiential model, with 17 embedded items in five dimensions (entertainment, culture identity-seeking, education, relationship development, and escapism), was established.