Measuring energy use and sleep in young children using new technology
Using Open-Source Technology to Measure Energy Expenditure and Sleep Among Children 3 to 8 Years Old
This study is looking at how kids aged 3 to 8 move around, rest, and sleep, using a comfy new device called PATCH that helps track their activity and sleep patterns, so we can better understand what keeps them healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Carolina at Columbia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10993639 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how children aged 3 to 8 years spend their time being active, sedentary, and asleep, which can impact their health. The study uses a new open-source wearable device called PATCH that combines heart rate and accelerometry data to provide accurate measurements of energy expenditure and sleep patterns. By validating this device in both controlled and everyday settings, the research aims to create reliable estimates of children's energy use and sleep. This approach addresses the limitations of existing devices that are often uncomfortable or not designed for children.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 3 to 8 years who are willing to wear a monitoring device.
Not a fit: Children outside the age range of 3 to 8 years may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better monitoring of children's health behaviors, ultimately improving their overall well-being.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using wearable technology for health monitoring, but this specific approach with the PATCH device is novel.
Where this research is happening
Columbia, United States
- University of South Carolina at Columbia — Columbia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Armstrong, Bridget R. — University of South Carolina at Columbia
- Study coordinator: Armstrong, Bridget R.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.