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Dr Dimitris Vlachopoulos

Senior Lecturer

+44 (0)1392 26 7048

Baring Court 012

Baring Court, University of Exeter St Luke's Campus, Heavitree Road, Exeter, EX1 2LU, UK

Overview

Dimitris is a Senior Lecturer (Education and Research) at the Sport and Health Sciences department. He joined the Children’s Health and Exercise Research Centre (CHERC) in 2012 to complete his MSc in Paediatric Exercise and Health. His research is focusing on musculoskeletal development and exercise during growth. He completed the Physical Activity Measurement Training in MRC Epidemiology Unit at the University of Cambridge, and the National Training Scheme for Bone Densitometry of Royal Osteoporosis Society. He completed his PhD in 2017 after conducting the PRO-BONE study (Marie Curie EU grant) that included cross-sectional, longitudinal and randomized controlled trial studies focusing on musculoskeletal health of adolescent athletes. His research is published in internationally recognised journals, such as the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research, Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise and Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport, and used by relevant guidelines from Royal Osteoporosis Society and Public Health England.

Throughout the years, Dimitris was awarded six New/Young Investigator Awards including the British Journal of Sports Medicine (PhD Academy Award 2019, The Peoples’ Choice Award), Royal Osteoporosis Society (ROS), European College of Sport Science (ECSS), Bone Research Society (BRS), International Conference of Children’s Bone Health (ICCBH) and International Congress of Physical Education and Sport Sciences (ICPESS). He has also been the recipient of the Neil Mackenzie Public Engagement Award and the Barbara Mawer travel Fellowship both from Bone Research Society. He was also elected New Investigator representative (non-clinical) of the Bone Research Society in 2018. In 2020 Dimitris completed the Academic Professional Programme and awarded the Fellowship in Higher Education Academy.

Recently Dimitris as the Principal Investigator of University of Exeter and in collaboration with a large European team of acacemics, stakeholders, members of the society and organisations have been awarded a prestigious Horizon 2020 grant (1.1m €) as part of the Science with and for Society-SwafS programme to tackle the increasing societal challenges across Europe. The SEEDS project aims to engage adolescents in designing interventions that will improve their healthy lifestyles by training them in scientific methodologies and increasing their interest in STEM careers.

Qualifications

2023 - Fellow of the European College of Sport Science (FECSS)

2020 - Academic Professional Programme completion (APP/PCAP: Level 7/Masters equivalent with Research Specialist Pathway) and the following qualifications obtained: 1) Postgraduate Certificate in Academic Practice (PCAP); 2) Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA); 3) Fellowship of ASPIRE; 4) Certificate from the Institute of Apprenticeships - Advance Higher Education.

2017 - PhD, Sport and Health Sciences, University of Exeter - Funded by European Commission – Marie Curie 7th Career Integration Grants.

2015 - Associate Fellowship of Higher Education Academy (AFHEA) - Advance Higher Education.

2014 - MSc, Paediatric Exercise and Health, University of Exeter - Funded by Greek State Scholarships Foundation (IKY).

2013 - Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) - UK Department of Education.

2010 - BSc, Physical Education and Sport Science, Democritus University of Thrace.

Research

Research interests

His current research focuses on physical activity and exercise intervention programmes aiming to improve lifestyle behaviours, such as physical activity and diet, STEM and musculoskeletal health during growth. His research expertise includes the objective assessment of physical activity and musculoskeletal health, and the effects of sport participation and maturation in health outcomes during growth.

He currently works with large cross-sectional, longitudinal and RCT studies worldwide including the EU Horizon 2020 SEEDS study, the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC) and the UK Biobank from the UK, the Physical Activity and Nutrition in Childhood (PANIC) study dataset in collaboration with the University of Eastern Finland and the ABCD growth study in collaboration with the Sao Paolo State University in Brazil. He is also involved in large musculoskeltal health reseach projects in Greece (KOMO-BONES) and in clinical population (iBoneFIT study) in Spain.

Research projects

Children's Health and Exercise Research Centre (CHERC)

Researchgate:
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Dimitris_Vlachopoulos

Google Scholar:

https://scholar.google.co.uk/citations?user=uYWT1BcAAAAJ&hl=en

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dimitris-vlachopoulos-a1931251?trk=nav_responsive_tab_profile_pic

Research networks

Bone Research Society: https://boneresearchsociety.org/

European College of Sport Science: http://sport-science.org/

European Commision Horizon 2020: https://ec.europa.eu/research/swafs/index.cfm

Research grants

2022 GenEx Joint Seed Funding
The associations between lifestyle factors, cardiometabolic and musculoskeletal health. A UK Biobank project.
2021 Juho Vainio Foundation
The longitudinal role of physical activity, nutrition and endocrine factors with bone health from childhood to adolescence. The PANIC study.
2021 China Scholarship Council and University of Exeter
China Scholarship Council and University of Exeter PhD Scholarship: Quantifying the role of physical activity, nutrition and body composition for musculoskeletal health during growth and in adulthood using experimental studies and population-based datasets.
2020 Horizon 2020
Science Engagement to Empower Disadvantaged Adolescents (SEEDS) The general objective of the SEEDS is to engage adolescents from deprived neighbourhoods in designing interventions that will improve their healthy lifestyles by training them in scientific methodologies, increasing their interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) careers and to empower them by enhancing their critical thinking capabilities.
2018 Sao Paulo Research Foundation
Bone and soft tissue adaptations according to sports practised during adolescence: ABCD growth study
2018 The Physiology Society
The Physiological Society Travel Grant
2018 Bone Research Society
The Bone Research Society Barbara Mayer Travelling Fellowship
2017 CLES Strategic Development Fund
Post-doctoral grant
2014 EU Marie Curie Training Grant
PhD Scholarship Grant
2013 Greek State Scholarships Foundation (IKY)
MSc scholarship grant

Publications

Key publications | Publications by category | Publications by year

Key publications

Agostinete RR, Fernandes RA, Narciso PH, Maillane-Vanegas S, Werneck AO, Vlachopoulos D (In Press). Categorizing ten sports according to bone and soft tissue profiles in adolescents. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise

Constable A, Vlachopoulos D, Barker A, Moore S, Soininen S, Haapala E, Väist J, Westgate K, Brage S, Mahonen A, et al (In Press). The independent and interactive associations of physical activity intensity and vitamin D status with bone mineral density in prepubertal children: the PANIC Study. Osteoporosis International

Ubago-Guisado E, Cavero-Redondo I, Alvarez-Bueno C, Vlachopoulos D, Martínez-Vizcaíno V, Gracia-Marco L (2019). Bone Health in Children and Youth with Cystic Fibrosis: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Matched Cohort Studies. The Journal of Pediatrics, 215, 178-186.e16.

Vlachopoulos D, Barker AR, Ubago-Guisado E, Williams CA, Gracia-Marco L (2018). A 9-month jumping intervention to improve bone geometry in adolescent male athletes. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 50(12), 2544-2554.

© 2018 Lippincott Williams and Wilkins.All Rights Reserved. Purpose Sports have different effects on bone development and effective interventions to improve bone health of adolescent athletes are needed. The purpose of the study was to investigate the effect of a 9-month jumping intervention on bone geometry and metabolism in adolescent male athletes. Methods Ninety-three adolescent (14.1 yr old) male swimmers (SWI), footballers (FOO), and cyclists (CYC) were randomized to intervention and sport (INT-SWI = 19, INT-FOO = 15, and INT-CYC = 14) or sport only (CON-SWI = 18, CON-FOO = 15, and CON-CYC = 12) groups. Cross-sectional area, cross-sectional moment of inertia (CSMI), and section modulus (Z) at the femoral neck were assessed using hip structural analysis and trabecular texture of the lumbar spine using trabecular bone score. Bone mineral content (BMC) at femoral neck and lumbar spine was assessed using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Serum N-terminal propeptide of procollagen type I, isomer of the carboxy-terminal telopeptide of type 1 collagen, total serum calcium, and 25-hydroxyvitamin D were analyzed. Results INT-CYC acquired significantly higher lumbar spine BMC (4.6%) and femoral neck BMC (9.8%) than CON-CYC. INT-CYC acquired significantly higher cross-sectional area (11.0%), CSMI (10.1%), and trabecular bone score (4.4%) than CON-CYC. INT-SWI acquired significantly higher femoral neck BMC (6.0%) and CSMI (10.9%) than CON-SWI. There were no significant differences between INT-FOO and CON-FOO in any bone outcomes. N-terminal propeptide of procollagen type I significantly decreased in CON-SWI, INT-FOO, CON-FOO, and CON-CYC. Carboxy-terminal telopeptide of type 1 collagen significantly decreased in CON-SWI and CON-CYC. The 25-hydroxyvitamin D significantly increased in INT-CYC, CON-CYC, INT-FOO, and CON-FOO. Conclusions a 9-month jumping intervention improved bone outcomes in adolescent swimmers and cyclists, but not in footballers. This intervention might be used by sports clubs to improve bone health of adolescent athletes.

Abstract.

Vlachopoulos D, Barker AR, Ubago-Guisado E, Fatouros IG, Knapp KM, Williams CA, Gracia-Marco L (2017). Longitudinal Adaptations of Bone Mass, Geometry, and Metabolism in Adolescent Male Athletes: the PRO-BONE Study. J Bone Miner Res, 32(11), 2269-2277.

Adolescence is a crucial period for bone development, and exercise can enhance bone acquisition during this period of life. However, it is not known how the different loading sports practiced can affect bone acquisition in adolescent male athletes. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to determine the 1-year longitudinal bone acquisition among adolescent males involved in osteogenic (football) and non-osteogenic (swimming and cycling) sports and to compare with active controls. A total of 116 adolescent males aged 12 to 14 years at baseline were followed for 1 year: 37 swimmers, 37 footballers, 28 cyclists, and 14 active controls. Bone mineral content (BMC) was assessed using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA); cross-sectional area (CSA), cross-sectional moment of inertia (CSMI), and section modulus (Z) at the femoral neck was assessed using hip structural analysis (HSA); and bone texture of the lumbar spine was assessed using trabecular bone score (TBS). Serum N-terminal propeptide of procollagen type I (PINP), isomer of the Carboxi-terminal telopeptide of type 1 collagen (CTX-I), total serum calcium, and 25 hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] were analyzed. Footballers had significantly higher adjusted BMC at the lumbar spine (7.0%) and femoral neck (5.0%) compared with cyclists, and significantly greater BMC at the lumbar spine (6.9%) compared with swimmers. Footballers presented significantly greater TBS (4.3%) compared with swimmers, and greater CSMI (10.2%), CSA (7.1%), Z (8.9%) and TBS (4.2%) compared with cyclists. No differences were noted between cyclists and swimmers, both groups had similar bone acquisition compared with controls. PINP was significantly higher in footballers and controls compared with cyclists and swimmers (3.3% to 6.0%), and 25(OH)D was significantly higher in footballers and cyclists compared with swimmers and controls (9.9% to 13.1%). These findings suggest that bone acquisition is higher in adolescent male footballers compared with swimmers and cyclists at the femoral neck and lumbar spine sites of the skeleton. © 2017 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.

Abstract. Author URL.

Publications by category

Journal articles

Batrakoulis A, Tsimeas P, Deli C, Vlachopoulos D, Ubago-Guisado E, Poulios A, Chatzinikolaou A, Draganidis D, Papanikolaou K, Georgakouli K, et al (In Press). Hybrid neuromuscular training promotes musculoskeletal adaptations in inactive overweight and obese women: a training-detraining randomized controlled trial. Journal of Sports Sciences

Skinner AM, Barker AR, Moore SA, Soininen S, Haapala EA, Väistö J, Westgate K, Brage S, Lakka TA, Vlachopoulos D, et al (2024). Cross-sectional and longitudinal associations between the 24-hour movement behaviours, including muscle and bone strengthening activity, with bone and lean mass from childhood to adolescence. BMC Public Health, 24(1). Abstract. Author URL.

Agostinete RR, Werneck AO, Narciso PH, Ubago-Guisado E, Coelho-E-Silva MJ, Bielemann RM, Gobbo LA, Lynch BT, Fernandes RA, Vlachopoulos D, et al (2024). Resistance training presents beneficial effects on bone development of adolescents engaged in swimming but not in impact sports: ABCD Growth Study. BMC Pediatr, 24(1). Abstract. Author URL.

Gharge S, Vlachopoulos D, Skinner AM, Williams CA, Iniesta RR, Unisa S (2024). The effect of the Mid-Day Meal programme on the longitudinal physical growth from childhood to adolescence in India. PLOS Glob Public Health, 4(1). Abstract. Author URL.

Wargers A, Queral J, Mölenberg FJ, Tarro L, Elphick CM, Kalogerakou E, Karagiannis A, Llauradó E, Manios Y, Mavrogianni C, et al (2023). Citizen Science to improve healthy and active living among adolescents in four European countries: a protocol of the cluster randomised controlled trial of the Science Engagement to Empower aDolescentS (SEEDS) project. BMJ Open, 13(5).

INTRODUCTION: Improving healthy lifestyles of adolescents is challenging. Citizen Science is a way to engage them in the design and delivery of interventions, and may also increase their interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). The Science Engagement to Empower aDolescentS (SEEDS) project aims to use an equity-lens, and engage and empower boys and girls from deprived areas by designing and cocreating interventions to promote healthy lifestyles, and to seed interest in STEM. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: SEEDS is a cluster randomised controlled trial in four countries (Greece, the Netherlands, Spain and the UK). Each country will recruit six to eight high schools from lower socioeconomic neighbourhoods. Adolescents aged 13-15 years are the target population. High schools will be randomised into intervention or control group. Each country will select 15 adolescents from intervention schools called ambassadors, who will be involved throughout the project.In each country, focus groups with ambassadors and stakeholders will focus on physical activity, snacking behaviour and STEM. The input from focus groups will be used to shape Makeathon events, cocreation events where adolescents and stakeholders will develop the interventions. The resultant intervention will be implemented in the intervention schools during 6 months. In total, we aim to recruit 720 adolescents who will complete questionnaires related to healthy lifestyles and STEM outcomes at baseline (November 2021) and after the 6 months (June 2022). ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: the four countries obtained approval from their corresponding Ethics Committees (Greece: Bioethics Committee of Harokopio University; the Netherlands: the Medical Research Ethics Committee of the Erasmus Medical Center; Spain: the Drug Research Ethics Committee of the Pere Virgili Health Research Institute; UK: Sport and Health Sciences Ethics Committee of the University of Exeter). Informed consent will be collected from adolescents and their parents in line with General Data Protection Regulation legislation. The findings will be disseminated by conference presentations, publications in scientific peer-reviewed journals and during (local) stakeholders and public events. Lessons learnt and the main results will also be used to provide policy recommendations. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT05002049.

Abstract. Author URL.

Papageorgiou M, Vlachopoulos D, Constable AM, Biver E, Barker AR, Soininen S, Haapala EA, Väistö J, Mahonen A, Herrmann F, et al (2023). Cross-sectional and longitudinal associations of total dairy intake and dairy subtypes with body composition in children. Clinical Nutrition ESPEN, 58

Marmol-Perez A, Ubago-Guisado E, Llorente-Cantarero FJ, Vlachopoulos D, Rodriguez-Solana A, Gil-Cosano JJ, Ruiz JR, Gracia-Marco L (2023). Determinants of bone parameters in young paediatric cancer survivors: the iBoneFIT project. Pediatr Res, 94(4), 1538-1546.

BACKGROUND: Bone health is remarkably affected by endocrine side effects due to paediatric cancer treatments and the disease itself. We aimed to provide novel insights into the contribution of independent predictors of bone health in young paediatric cancer survivors. METHODS: This cross-sectional multicentre study was carried out within the iBoneFIT framework in which 116 young paediatric cancer survivors (12.1 ± 3.3 years old; 43% female) were recruited. The independent predictors were sex, years from peak height velocity (PHV), time from treatment completion, radiotherapy exposure, region-specific lean and fat mass, musculoskeletal fitness, moderate-vigorous physical activity and past bone-specific physical activity. RESULTS: Region-specific lean mass was the strongest significant predictor of most areal bone mineral density (aBMD), all hip geometry parameters and Trabecular Bone Score (β = 0.400-0.775, p ≤ 0.05). Years from PHV was positively associated with total body less head, legs and arms aBMD, and time from treatment completion was also positively associated with total hip and femoral neck aBMD parameters and narrow neck cross-sectional area (β = 0.327-0.398, p ≤ 0.05; β = 0.135-0.221, p ≤ 0.05), respectively. CONCLUSION: Region-specific lean mass was consistently the most important positive determinant of all bone parameters, except for total hip aBMD, all Hip Structural Analysis parameters and Trabecular Bone Score. IMPACT: the findings of this study indicate that region-specific lean mass is consistently the most important positive determinant of bone health in young paediatric cancer survivors. Randomised clinical trials focused on improving bone parameters of this population should target at region-specific lean mass due to the site-specific adaptations of the skeleton to external loading following paediatric cancer treatment. After paediatric cancer diagnosis, years from peak height velocity (somatic maturity) is critical for bone development.

Abstract. Author URL.

Skinner AM, Vlachopoulos D, Barker AR, Moore SA, Rowlands AV, Soininen S, Haapala EA, Väistö J, Westgate K, Brage S, et al (2023). Physical activity volume and intensity distribution in relation to bone, lean and fat mass in children. Scand J Med Sci Sports, 33(3), 267-282. Abstract. Author URL.

Iniesta RR, Cook S, Oversby G, Koufaki P, Van der Linden ML, Vlachopoulos D, Williams CA, Urquhart DS (2023). Systematic review and meta-analysis: Associations of vitamin D with pulmonary function in children and young people with cystic fibrosis. Clinical Nutrition ESPEN, 54, 349-373.

Skinner AM, Rowlands AV, Vlachopoulos D, Barker AR, Janz KF, Moore SA (2023). The Influence of Accelerometer Epoch Length on Associations of Physical Activity Intensity and Volume with Bone Outcomes. Journal of Sports Science and Medicine, 117-132.

Two accelerometer metrics (intensity-gradient and average-acceleration) can be used to determine the relative contributions of physical activity (PA) volume and intensity for health, but it is unknown whether epoch length influences the associations detected. This is important when considering bone health, as bone is particularly responsive to high intensity PA, which may be underestimated by longer epochs. This study aimed to assess the associations between average-acceleration, a proxy measure of PA volume, and intensity-gradient, reflective of PA intensity distribution, from PA data from 1-s to 60-s epochs at age 17 to 23 years with bone outcomes at age 23 years. This is a secondary analysis of 220 participants (124 females) from the Iowa Bone Development Study, a longitudinal study of bone health from childhood to early adulthood. Accelerometer-assessed PA data, captured at age 17 to 23 years, were summarised over 1-s, 5-s, 15-s, 30-s, and 60-s epochs, to generate average-acceleration and intensity-gradient from each epoch length, averaged across ages. Regression analysed associations between mutually adjusted average-acceleration and intensity-gradient with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry assessed total-body-less-head (TBLH) bone mineral content (BMC), spine areal bone mineral density (aBMD), hip aBMD, and femoral neck cross-sectional area and section modulus at age 23 years. Intensity-gradient was positively associated with TBLH BMC in females, with spine aBMD in males, and with hip aBMD and geometry in both sexes, when a 1 to 5-s epoch was used. Average-acceleration was positively associated with TBLH BMC, spine aBMD and hip aBMD in males, generally when the adjustment for intensity-gradient was from > 1-s epochs. Intensity and volume were important for bone outcomes in both sexes and males, respectively. A 1 to 5-s epoch length was most appropriate to assess the mutually adjusted associations of intensity-gradient and average-acceleration with bone outcomes in young adults.

Abstract.

Duncombe S, Barker A, Bond B, Earle R, Varley-Campbell J, Vlachopoulos D, Walker J, Weston K, Stylianou M (2022). School-based high-intensity interval training programs in children and adolescents: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (vol 24, pg S78, 2021). JOURNAL OF SCIENCE AND MEDICINE IN SPORT, 25(3), E11-E11. Author URL.

Duncombe SL, Barker AR, Bond B, Earle R, Varley-Campbell J, Vlachopoulos D, Walker JL, Weston KL, Stylianou M (2022). School-based high-intensity interval training programs in children and adolescents: a systematic review and meta-analysis. PLOS ONE, 17(5), e0266427-e0266427.

Purpose1) to investigate the effectiveness of school-based high-intensity interval training (HIIT) interventions in promoting health outcomes of children and adolescents compared with either a control group or other exercise modality; and 2) to explore the intervention characteristics and process outcomes of published school-based HIIT interventions.MethodsWe searched Medline, Embase, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science from inception until 31 March 2021. Studies were eligible if 1) participants aged 5–17 years old; 2) a HIIT intervention within a school setting ≥ 2 weeks duration; 3) a control or comparative exercise group; 4) health-related, cognitive, physical activity, nutrition, or program evaluation outcomes; and 5) original research published in English. We conducted meta-analyses between HIIT and control groups for all outcomes with ≥ 4 studies and meta-regressions for all outcomes with ≥ 10 studies. We narratively synthesised results between HIIT and comparative exercise groups.ResultsFifty-four papers met eligibility criteria, encompassing 42 unique studies (35 randomised controlled trials; 36 with a high risk of bias). Meta-analyses indicated significant improvements in waist circumference (mean difference (MD) = -2.5cm), body fat percentage (MD = -1.7%), body mass index (standardised mean difference (SMD) = -1.0), cardiorespiratory fitness (SMD = +1.0), resting heart rate (MD = -5bpm), homeostatic model assessment–insulin resistance (MD = -0.7), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (SMD = -0.9) for HIIT compared to the control group. Our narrative synthesis indicated mixed findings between HIIT and other comparative exercise groups.ConclusionSchool-based HIIT is effective for improving several health outcomes. Future research should address the paucity of information on physical activity and nutrition outcomes and focus on the integration and long-term effectiveness of HIIT interventions within school settings.Trial registration numberPROSPEROCRD42018117567.

Abstract.

Constable A, Vlachopoulos D, Barker A (2022). The Mediating Role of Endocrine Factors in the Positive Relationship Between Fat Mass and Bone Mineral Content in Children Aged 9–11 Years: the Physical Activity and Nutrition in Children Study. Frontiers in Endocrinology Abstract.

Agostinete RR, Werneck AO, Maillane-Vanegas S, Gracia-Marco L, Ubago-Guisado E, Constable AM, Fernandes RA, Vlachopoulos D (2021). The Mediating Role of Lean Soft Tissue in the Relationship between Somatic Maturation and Bone Density in Adolescent Practitioners and Non-Practitioners of Sports. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(6), 3008-3008. Abstract.

Constable AM, Porter JE, Benger D, Vlachopoulos D, Barker AR, Moore SA, Soininen S, Haapala EA, Westgate K, Brage S, et al (2021). The Positive Relationship between Moderate-to-Vigorous Physical Activity and Bone Mineral Content is Not Mediated by Free Leptin Index in Prepubertal Children: the PANIC Study. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(10), 5365-5365. Abstract.

Ojanen X, Cheng R, Törmäkangas T, Rappaport N, Wilmanski T, Wu N, Fung E, Nedelec R, Sebert S, Vlachopoulos D, et al (2021). Towards early risk biomarkers: serum metabolic signature in childhood predicts cardio-metabolic risk in adulthood. EBioMedicine, 72 Abstract. Author URL.

Agostinete RR, Vlachopoulos D, Werneck AO, Maillane-Vanegas S, Lynch KR, Naughton G, Fernandes RA (2020). Bone accrual over 18 months of participation in different loading sports during adolescence. Archives of Osteoporosis, 15(1).

Tomlinson O, Vlachopoulos D (2020). Desaturation during exercise is not a sufficient mechanism for prediction of osteoporosis in non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis. BMC Pulmonary Medicine, 20, 23-23.

Theocharidis A, McKinlay BJ, Vlachopoulos D, Josse AR, Falk B, Klentrou P (2020). Effects of post exercise protein supplementation on markers of bone turnover in adolescent swimmers. J Int Soc Sports Nutr, 17(1).

BACKGROUND: This study examined the effects of whey protein supplementation, compared with an isocaloric carbohydrate beverage and water, consumed immediately following an intense swimming trial on bone turnover in adolescent swimmers. METHODS: Fifty-eight (31 female, 27 male) swimmers (14.1 ± 0.4 years) were stratified into three groups matched for age, sex and body mass. The protein and carbohydrate groups consumed two isocaloric post-exercise beverages each containing 0.3 g.kg- 1 of whey protein (with ~ 6 mg of calcium) or maltodextrin while the control group consumed water. Participants provided a morning, fasted, resting blood sample, then performed an intense swimming trial consisting of a maximal 200 m swim followed by a high intensity interval swimming protocol (5x100m, 5x50m and 5x25m; 1:1 work-to-rest ratio). Following swimming, they consumed their first respective post-exercise beverage, and 2 h later, they performed a second maximal swim immediately followed by the second beverage. Approximately 3 h after the second beverage, two post-consumption blood samples were collected at 8 h and 24 h from baseline. Procollagen type 1 intact N-terminal propeptide (PINP) and carboxy-terminal collagen crosslinks (CTXI) were measured in serum. The multiples of medians of PINP and CTXI were also used to calculate bone turnover rate and balance. RESULTS: No significant changes were observed in PINP. CTXI increased (+ 11%) at 8 h in all groups, but then significantly decreased (- 22%) at 24 h in the protein group only. The protein group also had a significantly higher calculated rate of bone turnover at 8 h and 24 h compared to baseline, which was not observed in the other groups. CONCLUSIONS: These results shed light on the potential importance of protein consumed shortly after intense swimming in promoting positive bone turnover responses up to 24 h following exercise in adolescent athletes. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov PRS; NCT04114045. Registered 1 October 2019 - Retrospectively registered.

Abstract. Author URL.

Gil-Cosano JJ, Ubago-Guisado E, Sánchez MJ, Ortega-Acosta MJ, Mateos ME, Benito-Bernal AI, Llorente-Cantarero FJ, Ortega FB, Ruiz JR, Labayen I, et al (2020). The effect of an online exercise programme on bone health in paediatric cancer survivors (iBoneFIT): study protocol of a multi-centre randomized controlled trial. BMC Public Health, 20(1).

Abstract
. Background
. New approaches on paediatric cancer treatment aim to maintain long-term health. As a result of radiotherapy, chemotherapy or surgery, paediatric cancer survivors tend to suffer from any chronic health condition. Endocrine dysfunction represents one of the most common issues and affects bone health. Exercise is key for bone mass accrual during growth, specifically plyometric jump training. The iBoneFIT study will investigate the effect of a 9-month online exercise programme on bone health in paediatric cancer survivors. This study will also examine the effect of the intervention on body composition, physical fitness, physical activity, calcium intake, vitamin D, blood samples quality of life and mental health.
.
. Methods
. A minimum of 116 participants aged 6 to 18 years will be randomized into an intervention (n = 58) or control group (n = 58). The intervention group will receive an online exercise programme and diet counselling on calcium and vitamin D. In addition, five behaviour change techniques and a gamification design will be implemented in order to increase the interest of this non-game programme. The control group will only receive diet counselling. Participants will be assessed on 3 occasions: 1) at baseline; 2) after the 9 months of the intervention; 3) 4 months following the intervention. The primary outcome will be determined by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and the hip structural analysis, trabecular bone score and 3D-DXA softwares. Secondary outcomes will include anthropometry, body composition, physical fitness, physical activity, calcium and vitamin D intake, blood samples, quality of life and mental health.
.
. Discussion
. Whether a simple, feasible and short in duration exercise programme can improve bone health has not been examined in paediatric cancer survivors. This article describes the design, rationale and methods of a study intended to test the effect of a rigorous online exercise programme on bone health in paediatric cancer survivors. If successful, the iBoneFIT study will contribute to decrease chronic health conditions in this population and will have a positive impact in the society.
.
. Trial registration
. Prospectively registered in isrctn.com: isrctn61195625. Registered 2 April 2020.
.

Abstract.

Gracia-Marco L, García-Fontana B, Ubago-Guisado E, Vlachopoulos D, García-Martín A, Muñoz-Torres M (2019). Analysis of Bone Impairment by 3D DXA Hip Measures in Patients with Primary Hyperparathyroidism: a Pilot Study. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 105(1), 175-184. Abstract.

Ubago-Guisado E, Vlachopoulos D, Barker AR, Christoffersen T, Metcalf B, Gracia-Marco L (2019). Effect of maturational timing on bone health in male adolescent athletes engaged in different sports: the PRO-BONE study. J Sci Med Sport, 22(3), 253-258. Abstract. Author URL.

Lynch KR, Anokye NK, Vlachopoulos D, Barbieri FA, Turi-Lynch BC, Codogno JS, Agostinete RR, Fernandes RA (2019). Impact of sports participation on incidence of bone traumatic fractures and health-care costs among adolescents: ABCD – Growth Study. The Physician and Sportsmedicine, 48(3), 298-303.

Vlachopoulos D (2019). The impact of different loading sports and a jumping intervention on bone health in adolescent males: the PRO-BONE study. British journal of sports medicine, 53(19), 1255-1256.

Vlachopoulos D, Barker AR, Ubago-Guisado E, Williams CA, Gracia-Marco L (2018). A 9-month Jumping Intervention to Improve Bone Acquisition in Adolescent Male Athletes. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 50(5S).

Abstract.

Torres-Costoso A, Vlachopoulos D, Ubago-Guisado E, Ferri-Morales A, Cavero-Redondo I, Martínez-Vizcaino V, Gracia-Marco L (2018). Agreement Between Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry and Quantitative Ultrasound to Evaluate Bone Health in Adolescents: the PRO-BONE Study. Pediatr Exerc Sci, 30(4), 466-473. Abstract. Author URL.

Ferri-Morales A, Nascimento-Ferreira MV, Vlachopoulos D, Ubago-Guisado E, Torres-Costoso A, De Moraes ACF, Barker AR, Moreno LA, Martínez-Vizcaino V, Gracia-Marco L, et al (2018). Agreement Between Standard Body Composition Methods to Estimate Percentage of Body Fat in Young Male Athletes. Pediatr Exerc Sci, 30(3), 402-410. Abstract. Author URL.

Ubago-Guisado E, Vlachopoulos D, Fatouros IG, Deli CK, Leontsini D, Moreno LA, Courteix D, Gracia-Marco L (2018). Longitudinal determinants of 12-month changes on bone health in adolescent male athletes. Archives of Osteoporosis, 13(1). Abstract.

Chatzinikolaou A, Michaloglou K, Avloniti A, Leontsini D, Deli CK, Vlachopoulos D, Gracia Marco L, Arsenis S, Athanailidis I, Draganidis D, et al (2018). The Trainability of Adolescent Soccer Players to Brief Periodized Complex Training. International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 13, 645-655.

Vlachopoulos D, Barker AR, Ubago-Guisado E, Ortega FB, Krustrup P, Metcalf B, Castro Pinero J, Ruiz JR, Knapp KM, Williams CA, et al (2018). The effect of 12-month participation in osteogenic and non-osteogenic sports on bone development in adolescent male athletes. The PRO-BONE study. J Sci Med Sport, 21(4), 404-409. Abstract. Author URL.

Vlachopoulos D, Barker AR, Ubago-Guisado E, Williams CA, Gracia-Marco L (2018). The effect of a high-impact jumping intervention on bone mass, bone stiffness and fitness parameters in adolescent athletes. Arch Osteoporos, 13(1).

UNLABELLED: This study demonstrates that a 9-month jumping intervention can improve bone mass gains and physical fitness performance in adolescent males participating in non-osteogenic sports, such as swimming and cycling. PURPOSE: to examine the effect of a jumping intervention on bone mass, bone stiffness and fitness parameters in adolescents involved in different sports. METHODS: Ninety-three adolescent male swimmers (SWI), footballers (FOO) and cyclists (CYC) were randomised to intervention (INT) and sport (INT-SWI = 19, INT-FOO = 15, INT-CYC = 14) or sport only (CON-SWI = 18, CON-FOO = 15, CON-CYC = 12) groups. The 9-month jumping intervention consisted of 3 levels (12 weeks each) of 20 repetitions per set of counter movement jumps (CMJ) using adjustable weight vests (level 1 = 20 CMJ jumps/set, 0 kg, 3 sets/day, 3 times/week; level 2 = 20 CMJ jumps/set, 2 kg, 4 sets/day, 3 times/week; level 3 = 20 CMJ jumps/set, 5 kg, 4 sets/day, 4 times/week). Total body bone mineral content (BMC) at total body less head (TBLH) was measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and bone stiffness using quantitative ultrasound. Fitness was assessed using the 20-m shuttle run (20mSRT), CMJ and standing long jump (SLJ) tests. RESULTS: INT-SWI had significantly higher increase in BMC legs and bone stiffness compared to CON-SWI (4.2-12.7%). INT-CYC had significantly higher increase in BMC at TBLH and legs and bone stiffness compared to CON-CYC (5.0-12.3%). There were no significant differences between INT-FOO and CON-FOO in any bone outcomes (0.9-3.9%). The increase in CMJ performance was significantly higher in INT-SWI (3.1 cm) and INT-CYC (3.2 cm) compared to CON-SWI and CON-CYC groups, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: a 9-month jumping intervention can improve bone mass, bone stiffness and muscular fitness in adolescent males participating in non-osteogenic sports, such as swimming and cycling. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: ISRCTN17982776.

Abstract. Author URL.

Forero-Bogotá MA, Ojeda-Pardo ML, García-Hermoso A, Correa-Bautista JE, González-Jiménez E, Schmidt-RíoValle J, Navarro-Pérez CF, Gracia-Marco L, Vlachopoulos D, Martínez-Torres J, et al (2017). Body Composition, Nutritional Profile and Muscular Fitness Affect Bone Health in a Sample of Schoolchildren from Colombia: the Fuprecol Study. Nutrients, 9(2). Abstract. Author URL.

Ubago-Guisado E, Vlachopoulos D, de MAC, Torres-Costoso A, Wilkinson K, Metcalf B, Sanchez-Sanchez J, Gallardo L, Gracia-Marco L (2017). Cardiorespiratory fitness, bone mineral density and hip geometry in young males: the PRO-BONE study. Bone Abstracts

Vlachopoulos D, Ubago-Guisado E, Barker AR, Metcalf BS, Fatouros IG, Avloniti A, Knapp KM, Moreno LA, Williams CA, Gracia-Marco L, et al (2017). Determinants of Bone Outcomes in Adolescent Athletes at Baseline: the PRO-BONE Study. Med Sci Sports Exerc, 49(7), 1389-1396. Abstract. Author URL.

Avloniti A, Chatzinikolaou A, Deli CK, Vlachopoulos D, Gracia-Marco L, Leontsini D, Draganidis D, Jamurtas AZ, Mastorakos G, Fatouros IG, et al (2017). Exercise-Induced Oxidative Stress Responses in the Pediatric Population. Antioxidants (Basel), 6(1). Abstract. Author URL.

Ubago-Guisado E, Vlachopoulos D, Ferreira de Moraes AC, Torres-Costoso A, Wilkinson K, Metcalf B, Sánchez-Sánchez J, Gallardo L, Gracia-Marco L (2017). Lean mass explains the association between muscular fitness and bone outcomes in 13-year-old boys. Acta Paediatr, 106(10), 1658-1665. Abstract. Author URL.

Abstract. Author URL.

Ubago-Guisado E, Vlachopoulos D, de MAC, Torres-Costoso A, Wilkinson K, Metcalf B, Sanchez-Sanchez J, Gallardo L, Gracia-Marco L (2017). Muscular fitness, bone mineral density and hip geometry in young males: the PRO-BONE study. Bone Abstracts

Wilkinson K, Vlachopoulos D, Klentrou P, Ubago-Guisado E, De Moraes ACF, Barker AR, Williams CA, Moreno LA, Gracia-Marco L (2017). Soft tissues, areal bone mineral density and hip geometry estimates in active young boys: the PRO-BONE study. Eur J Appl Physiol, 117(4), 833-842. Abstract. Author URL.

Vlachopoulos D, Barker AR, Williams CA, ARNGRíMSSON SA, Knapp KM, Metcalf BS, Fatouros IG, Moreno LA, Gracia-Marco L (2017). The Impact of Sport Participation on Bone Mass and Geometry in Male Adolescents. Med Sci Sports Exerc, 49(2), 317-326. Abstract. Author URL.

Christoffersen T, Emaus N, Dennison E, Furberg AS, Gracia-Marco L, Grimmes G, Nilsen OA, Vlachopoulos D, Winther A, Ahmed LA, et al (2017). The association between childhood fractures and adolescence bone outcomes: a population-based study, the Tromsø Study, Fit Futures. Osteoporosis International, 29, 441-450.

Christoffersen T, Ahmed LA, Daltveit AK, Dennison EM, Evensen EK, Furberg A-S, Gracia-Marco L, Grimnes G, Nilsen O-A, Schei B, et al (2017). The influence of birth weight and length on bone mineral density and content in adolescence: the Tromsø Study, Fit Futures. Arch Osteoporos, 12(1). Abstract. Author URL.

Vlachopoulos D, Barker A, Williams C, Knapp K, Metcalf B, Arngrimsson S, Fatouros I, Gracia-Marco L (2016). UK popular sports and hip differences on bone outcomes in adolescent male athletes: the PRO-BONE study. Bone Abstracts

Vlachopoulos D, Barker AR, Williams CA, Knapp KM, Metcalf BS, Gracia-Marco L (2015). Effect of a program of short bouts of exercise on bone health in adolescents involved in different sports: the PRO-BONE study protocol. BMC Public Health, 15

BACKGROUND: Osteoporosis is a skeletal disease associated with high morbidity, mortality and increased economic costs. Early prevention during adolescence appears to be one of the most beneficial practices. Exercise is an effective approach for developing bone mass during puberty, but some sports may have a positive or negative impact on bone mass accrual. Plyometric jump training has been suggested as a type of exercise that can augment bone, but its effects on adolescent bone mass have not been rigorously assessed. The aims of the PRO-BONE study are to: 1) longitudinally assess bone health and its metabolism in adolescents engaged in osteogenic (football), non-osteogenic (cycling and swimming) sports and in a control group, and 2) examine the effect of a 9 month plyometric jump training programme on bone related outcomes in the sport groups. METHODS/DESIGN: This study will recruit 105 males aged 12-14 years who have participated in sport specific training for at least 3 hours per week during the last 3 years in the following sports groups: football (n = 30), cycling (n = 30) and swimming (n = 30). An age-matched control group (n = 15) that does not engage in these sports more than 3 hours per week will also be recruited. Participants will be measured on 5 occasions: 1) at baseline; 2) after 12 months of sport specific training where each sport group will be randomly allocated into two sub-groups: intervention group (sport + plyometric jump training) and sport group (sport only); 3) exactly after the 9 months of intervention; 4) 6 months following the intervention; 5) 12 months following the intervention. Body composition (dual energy X-ray absorptiometry, air displacement plethysmography and bioelectrical impedance), bone stiffness index (ultrasounds), physical activity (accelerometers), diet (24 h recall questionnaire), pubertal maturation (Tanner stage), physical fitness (cardiorespiratory and muscular), bone turnover markers and vitamin D will be measured at each visit. DISCUSSION: the PRO-BONE study is designed to investigate the impact of osteogenic and non-osteogenic sports on bone development in adolescent males during puberty, and how a plyometric jump training programme is associated with body composition parameters.

Abstract. Author URL.

Cockcroft EJ, Williams CA, Tomlinson O, Vlachopoulos D, Jackman S, Armstrong N, Barker AR (2015). High Intensity Interval Exercise is an Effective Alternative to Moderate Intensity Exercise for Improving Insulin Sensitivity in Adolescent Boys. Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport

Chapters

Vlachopoulos D, Williams C, Helge E, Aagaard P, Jørgensen N, Krustrup P (2020). Football for promotion of bone health across lifespan. In Krustrup P, Parnell D (Eds.) Football as Medicine: Prescribing football for global health promotion, Routledge, 41-57. Abstract. Author URL.

Barker A, Gracia-Marco L, Vlachopoulos D, Williams C (2018). Growth, Maturation, and Physical Fitness. In Norton K, Eston R (Eds.) Kinanthropometry and Exercise Physiology, London: Routledge.

Vlachopoulos D, Gracia-Marco L, Barker AR, Huybrechts I, Moreno LA, Mouratidou T (2016). Bone health: the independent and combined effects of calcium, Vitamin D and exercise in children and adolescents. In (Ed) Food and Nutritional Components in Focus, 530-546. Abstract.

Conferences

Vlachopoulos D, Barker A, Williams C, Gracia-Marco L (2019). How Different Loading Sports and a 9-Month Plyometric Intervention Programme Affect Bone Turnover Markers During Adolescence: the PRO-BONE Study. the 9th Conference of Biochemistry and Physiology of Exercise. Abstract.

Vlachopoulos D, Barker AR, Williams CA, Gracia-Marco L (2019). How Different Loading Sports and a 9-Month Plyometric Intervention Programme Affect Bone Turnover Markers During Adolescence: the PRO-BONE Study. Conference of Biochemistry and Physiology of Exercise.

Vlachopoulos D, Barker A, Ubago-Guisado E, Williams C, Gracia-Marco L (2018). HOW DIFFERENT LOADING SPORTS AFFECT BONE DEVELOPMENT DURING ADOLESCENCE AND HOW TO IMPROVE IT? THE PRO-BONE STUDY FINDINGS. Author URL.

Jamurtas AZ, Leontsini D, Avloniti A, Vlachopoulos D, Stampoulis T, Chatzinikolaou A, Gracia-Marco L, Ubago-Guisado E, Makris K, Tournis S, et al (2017). Circulating Sclerostin Responses to Acute Weight and Non Weight Bearing Sport Activity in Pre Adolescent Males. Author URL.

Publications by year

In Press

2024

2023

Abstract. Author URL.

Abstract.

2022

Abstract.

2021

2020

Abstract. Author URL.

Abstract.

2019

2018

Abstract.

Barker A, Gracia-Marco L, Vlachopoulos D, Williams C (2018). Growth, Maturation, and Physical Fitness. In Norton K, Eston R (Eds.) Kinanthropometry and Exercise Physiology, London: Routledge.

Abstract. Author URL.

2017

Abstract. Author URL.

2016

2015

Abstract. Author URL.

Dimitris_Vlachopoulos Details from cache as at 2024-04-16 15:31:27

Refresh publications

External Engagement and Impact

Awards and Honours

British Journal of Sports Medicine, PhD Academy Award 2019, The Peoples’ Choice Award.
Young Investigator Award at the Osteoporosis Conference of National Osteoporosis Society, December 2018, Birmingham, UK.
Young Investigator Award winner at 23rd annual congress of the European College of Sport Science, July 2018, Dublin, Ireland.
Neil Mackenzie Public Engagement Award, Bone Research Society, June 2018, Southampton, UK.
Bone Research Society New Investigator Award at the BRS Annual Conference. June 2018, Winchester, UK.
New Investigator Award at the 8th International Conference of Children’s Bone Health, June 2017, Würzburg, Germany.
Young Investigator Award at the 24th International Congress of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, May 2016, Komotini, Greece.
Postgraduate Research Enhancement Fund awarded to attend European Calcified Tissue Congress, March 2016, Rome, Italy.
Honorary DXA Practitioner, Plymouth Hospital NHS Trust, Healthy Bones Unit, March 2014, Plymouth, UK.
Postgraduate Research Enhancement Fund awarded to complete the National Training Scheme for Bone Densitometry of National Osteoporosis Society - January 2014, Birmingham, UK.

Editorial responsibilities

Journal Reviewer roles:

Section Editor of Children and Exercise: Journal of Sport Science and Medicine
Review Editor: Frontiers in Sports and Active Living
Applied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism
BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders
BMC Pediatrics
BMC Public Health
Bone
Bone Reports
British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences
European Journal of Applied Physiology
European Journal of Nutrition
European Journal of Sports Science
Frontiers in Physiology
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
Journal of Aging and Physical Activity
Journal of Clinical Densitometry
Journal of Musculoskeletal and Neuronal Interactions
Journal of Sports Science and Medicine
Journal of Sports Sciences
Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise
Osteoporosis International
Paediatric Exercise Science
PLOS One
The Journal of Bone and Mineral Metabolism
The Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport
The Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports

External positions

Royal Osteoporosis Society Expert group member (2020) for evidence review on muscle and bone strengthening activities for children and young people.
Scientific consultant (Since 2019) of OKE Basketball Club in Elefsina, Athens focusing on Long Term Athlete Development (LTAD) and annual health screening of academy.
Widening participation representative of Sport and Health Sciences department (since 2018) responsible to organise and deliver sessions and events for schools by liaising with Widening Participation Coordinator of the college.
Dimitris was elected New Investigator representative (non-clinical) of the Bone Research Society in 2018 and he is involved in activities to develop early career researchers on the field.
Dimitris is member of the prestigious Young Investigator Award winners community of the European College of Sport Science.

Invited lectures & workshops

Invited presentations:

Invited speaker at National Rinck Convention Master Coach Course by European Handball Federation. Assessment tests of physical fitness in elite young Handball athletes. 7-11th July 2021.
Invited speaker at National Rinck Convention Master Coach Course by European Handball Federation. Long term athlete development (LTAD) of Handball related skills during growth and characteristics of elite young Handball athletes 7-11th July 2021.
Invited speaker at All about Marathon scientific workshop. Should children train and run marathons? National Kapodistrian University of Athens, Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre, Athens Greece, November 2019.
Invited speaker at Football is Medicine Conference. Bone effects of football participation during growth. University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark, January 2019.
Invited speaker at Sports Excellence unit of Regeneration and Progress NGO (funded by Stavros Niarchos Foundation) in Athens Medical School. June 2019.
Invited lecturer at Sao Paolo State University, Post-Graduate Program in Movement Sciences. Paediatric bone physiology and exercise during growth. Presidente Prudente, Brazil, April 2018.
Invited speaker at Medical Laboratory of Human Health and Performance. Physiological adaptations during exercise training in pediatric population. Sao Jose Hospital. Rio de Janeiro Brazil, April 2018.
Invited speaker at Arctic University of Norway. How different loading sports affect bone development and an intervention to improve it? Tromsø, Norway, November 2017.
Invited speaker at Rowing Club Argonauts. The role of maturation on long term athlete development. Kastoria, Greece, August 2017.
Invited speaker at Arctic University of Norway. The impact of sport participation on bone health in adolescent males. Tromsø, Norway, November 2016.
Invited presenter at Muscle and Bone Workshop – Bone Research Society Annual Meeting. Bone outcome differences in adolescent male athletes engaged in UK popular sport. University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK, June 2016.
Invited presenter at New Investigator Workshop – Bone Research Society Annual Meeting. Exercise and bone health in adolescents engaged in different sports. Sheffield Medical School, Sheffield, UK, June 2014.

Journal and book series Editorships and Editorial board membership

Professional memberships:

American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)
American Society for Bone & Mineral Research (ASBMR)
Bone Research Society (BRS)
British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES)
Children’s Alliance
European Calcified Tissue Society (ECTS)
European College of Sport Science (ECSS)
Mediterranean Lifestyle Medicine Institute
Paediatric Work Physiology group (PWP)
Royal Osteoporosis Society (ROS)
International Society of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity (ISBNPA)
International Society for Clinical Densitometry (ISCD)
The Physiological Society

Media Coverage

His article published in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research (JBMR, IF: 6.3) was ranked No2 at the Top Attention Grabbing papers from JBMR journal for 2017 with Altmetric score 305, and the paper was used in public health guidelines including the Royal Osteoporosis Society and Public Health England Muscle and bone strengthening activities for children and young people (5 to 18 years).
Dimitris was invited in various interviews including Science Daily, Good Morning Science, Swimming Science, Radio Exe among others.

Teaching

Qualifications

2020 - Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA)
2015 - Associate Fellow of Higher Education Academy (AFHEA)

Undergraduate

ESS1006 - Human Anatomy and Kinanthropometry
ESS1007 - Human Physiology
ESS3703 - Paeditric Exercise Physiology

Postgraduate

SMSM014 - Paediatric Exercise and Health

Dissertation topics:

The effect of a co-created intervention on physical activity and diet behaviours , and STEM interest in adolescents.
The role of physical activity, body composition and nutrition in relation to musculoskeletal health during growth.
Profile of elite youth handball athletes and the role of maturation for fitness performance.
The effects sports participation and plyometric training on bone health in adolescents.

profile

Dr Dimitris Vlachopoulos

Senior Lecturer

Overview

Qualifications

Research

Research interests

Research projects

Research networks

Research grants

Publications

Key publications

Abstract:A 9-month jumping intervention to improve bone geometry in adolescent male athletes

Abstract:Longitudinal Adaptations of Bone Mass, Geometry, and Metabolism in Adolescent Male Athletes: the PRO-BONE Study.

Publications by category

Journal articles

Abstract:Cross-sectional and longitudinal associations between the 24-hour movement behaviours, including muscle and bone strengthening activity, with bone and lean mass from childhood to adolescence.

Abstract:Resistance training presents beneficial effects on bone development of adolescents engaged in swimming but not in impact sports: ABCD Growth Study.

Abstract:The effect of the Mid-Day Meal programme on the longitudinal physical growth from childhood to adolescence in India.

Abstract:Citizen Science to improve healthy and active living among adolescents in four European countries: a protocol of the cluster randomised controlled trial of the Science Engagement to Empower aDolescentS (SEEDS) project.

Abstract:Determinants of bone parameters in young paediatric cancer survivors: the iBoneFIT project.

Abstract:Physical activity volume and intensity distribution in relation to bone, lean and fat mass in children.

Abstract:The Influence of Accelerometer Epoch Length on Associations of Physical Activity Intensity and Volume with Bone Outcomes

Abstract:School-based high-intensity interval training programs in children and adolescents: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract:The Mediating Role of Endocrine Factors in the Positive Relationship Between Fat Mass and Bone Mineral Content in Children Aged 9–11 Years: the Physical Activity and Nutrition in Children Study

Abstract:The Mediating Role of Lean Soft Tissue in the Relationship between Somatic Maturation and Bone Density in Adolescent Practitioners and Non-Practitioners of Sports

Abstract:The Positive Relationship between Moderate-to-Vigorous Physical Activity and Bone Mineral Content is Not Mediated by Free Leptin Index in Prepubertal Children: the PANIC Study

Abstract:Towards early risk biomarkers: serum metabolic signature in childhood predicts cardio-metabolic risk in adulthood.

Abstract:Effects of post exercise protein supplementation on markers of bone turnover in adolescent swimmers.

Abstract:The effect of an online exercise programme on bone health in paediatric cancer survivors (iBoneFIT): study protocol of a multi-centre randomized controlled trial

Abstract:Analysis of Bone Impairment by 3D DXA Hip Measures in Patients with Primary Hyperparathyroidism: a Pilot Study

Abstract:Effect of maturational timing on bone health in male adolescent athletes engaged in different sports: the PRO-BONE study.

Abstract:A 9-month jumping intervention to improve bone geometry in adolescent male athletes

Abstract:Agreement Between Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry and Quantitative Ultrasound to Evaluate Bone Health in Adolescents: the PRO-BONE Study.

Abstract:Agreement Between Standard Body Composition Methods to Estimate Percentage of Body Fat in Young Male Athletes.

Abstract:Longitudinal determinants of 12-month changes on bone health in adolescent male athletes

Abstract:The effect of 12-month participation in osteogenic and non-osteogenic sports on bone development in adolescent male athletes. The PRO-BONE study.

Abstract:The effect of a high-impact jumping intervention on bone mass, bone stiffness and fitness parameters in adolescent athletes.

Abstract:Body Composition, Nutritional Profile and Muscular Fitness Affect Bone Health in a Sample of Schoolchildren from Colombia: the Fuprecol Study.

Abstract:Determinants of Bone Outcomes in Adolescent Athletes at Baseline: the PRO-BONE Study.

Abstract:Exercise-Induced Oxidative Stress Responses in the Pediatric Population.

Abstract:Lean mass explains the association between muscular fitness and bone outcomes in 13-year-old boys.

Abstract:Longitudinal Adaptations of Bone Mass, Geometry, and Metabolism in Adolescent Male Athletes: the PRO-BONE Study.

Abstract:Soft tissues, areal bone mineral density and hip geometry estimates in active young boys: the PRO-BONE study.

Abstract:The Impact of Sport Participation on Bone Mass and Geometry in Male Adolescents.

Abstract:The influence of birth weight and length on bone mineral density and content in adolescence: the Tromsø Study, Fit Futures.

Abstract:Effect of a program of short bouts of exercise on bone health in adolescents involved in different sports: the PRO-BONE study protocol.

Chapters

Abstract:Football for promotion of bone health across lifespan.

Abstract:Bone health: the independent and combined effects of calcium, Vitamin D and exercise in children and adolescents

Conferences

Abstract:How Different Loading Sports and a 9-Month Plyometric Intervention Programme Affect Bone Turnover Markers During Adolescence: the PRO-BONE Study

Publications by year

In Press

2024

Abstract:Cross-sectional and longitudinal associations between the 24-hour movement behaviours, including muscle and bone strengthening activity, with bone and lean mass from childhood to adolescence.

Abstract:Resistance training presents beneficial effects on bone development of adolescents engaged in swimming but not in impact sports: ABCD Growth Study.

Abstract:The effect of the Mid-Day Meal programme on the longitudinal physical growth from childhood to adolescence in India.

2023

Abstract:Citizen Science to improve healthy and active living among adolescents in four European countries: a protocol of the cluster randomised controlled trial of the Science Engagement to Empower aDolescentS (SEEDS) project.

Abstract:Determinants of bone parameters in young paediatric cancer survivors: the iBoneFIT project.

Abstract:Physical activity volume and intensity distribution in relation to bone, lean and fat mass in children.

Abstract:The Influence of Accelerometer Epoch Length on Associations of Physical Activity Intensity and Volume with Bone Outcomes

2022

Abstract:School-based high-intensity interval training programs in children and adolescents: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract:The Mediating Role of Endocrine Factors in the Positive Relationship Between Fat Mass and Bone Mineral Content in Children Aged 9–11 Years: the Physical Activity and Nutrition in Children Study

2021

Abstract:The Mediating Role of Lean Soft Tissue in the Relationship between Somatic Maturation and Bone Density in Adolescent Practitioners and Non-Practitioners of Sports

Abstract:The Positive Relationship between Moderate-to-Vigorous Physical Activity and Bone Mineral Content is Not Mediated by Free Leptin Index in Prepubertal Children: the PANIC Study

Abstract:Towards early risk biomarkers: serum metabolic signature in childhood predicts cardio-metabolic risk in adulthood.

2020

Abstract:Effects of post exercise protein supplementation on markers of bone turnover in adolescent swimmers.

Abstract:Football for promotion of bone health across lifespan.

Abstract:The effect of an online exercise programme on bone health in paediatric cancer survivors (iBoneFIT): study protocol of a multi-centre randomized controlled trial

2019

Abstract:Analysis of Bone Impairment by 3D DXA Hip Measures in Patients with Primary Hyperparathyroidism: a Pilot Study

Abstract:Effect of maturational timing on bone health in male adolescent athletes engaged in different sports: the PRO-BONE study.

Abstract:How Different Loading Sports and a 9-Month Plyometric Intervention Programme Affect Bone Turnover Markers During Adolescence: the PRO-BONE Study

2018

Abstract:A 9-month jumping intervention to improve bone geometry in adolescent male athletes

Abstract:
A 9-month jumping intervention to improve bone geometry in adolescent male athletes

Abstract:
Longitudinal Adaptations of Bone Mass, Geometry, and Metabolism in Adolescent Male Athletes: the PRO-BONE Study.

Abstract:
Cross-sectional and longitudinal associations between the 24-hour movement behaviours, including muscle and bone strengthening activity, with bone and lean mass from childhood to adolescence.

Abstract:
Resistance training presents beneficial effects on bone development of adolescents engaged in swimming but not in impact sports: ABCD Growth Study.

Abstract:
The effect of the Mid-Day Meal programme on the longitudinal physical growth from childhood to adolescence in India.

Abstract:
Citizen Science to improve healthy and active living among adolescents in four European countries: a protocol of the cluster randomised controlled trial of the Science Engagement to Empower aDolescentS (SEEDS) project.

Abstract:
Determinants of bone parameters in young paediatric cancer survivors: the iBoneFIT project.

Abstract:
Physical activity volume and intensity distribution in relation to bone, lean and fat mass in children.

Abstract:
The Influence of Accelerometer Epoch Length on Associations of Physical Activity Intensity and Volume with Bone Outcomes

Abstract:
School-based high-intensity interval training programs in children and adolescents: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract:
The Mediating Role of Endocrine Factors in the Positive Relationship Between Fat Mass and Bone Mineral Content in Children Aged 9–11 Years: the Physical Activity and Nutrition in Children Study

Abstract:
The Mediating Role of Lean Soft Tissue in the Relationship between Somatic Maturation and Bone Density in Adolescent Practitioners and Non-Practitioners of Sports

Abstract:
The Positive Relationship between Moderate-to-Vigorous Physical Activity and Bone Mineral Content is Not Mediated by Free Leptin Index in Prepubertal Children: the PANIC Study

Abstract:
Towards early risk biomarkers: serum metabolic signature in childhood predicts cardio-metabolic risk in adulthood.

Abstract:
Effects of post exercise protein supplementation on markers of bone turnover in adolescent swimmers.

Abstract:
The effect of an online exercise programme on bone health in paediatric cancer survivors (iBoneFIT): study protocol of a multi-centre randomized controlled trial

Abstract:
Analysis of Bone Impairment by 3D DXA Hip Measures in Patients with Primary Hyperparathyroidism: a Pilot Study

Abstract:
Effect of maturational timing on bone health in male adolescent athletes engaged in different sports: the PRO-BONE study.

Abstract:
A 9-month jumping intervention to improve bone geometry in adolescent male athletes

Abstract:
Agreement Between Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry and Quantitative Ultrasound to Evaluate Bone Health in Adolescents: the PRO-BONE Study.

Abstract:
Agreement Between Standard Body Composition Methods to Estimate Percentage of Body Fat in Young Male Athletes.

Abstract:
Longitudinal determinants of 12-month changes on bone health in adolescent male athletes

Abstract:
The effect of 12-month participation in osteogenic and non-osteogenic sports on bone development in adolescent male athletes. The PRO-BONE study.

Abstract:
The effect of a high-impact jumping intervention on bone mass, bone stiffness and fitness parameters in adolescent athletes.

Abstract:
Body Composition, Nutritional Profile and Muscular Fitness Affect Bone Health in a Sample of Schoolchildren from Colombia: the Fuprecol Study.

Abstract:
Determinants of Bone Outcomes in Adolescent Athletes at Baseline: the PRO-BONE Study.

Abstract:
Exercise-Induced Oxidative Stress Responses in the Pediatric Population.

Abstract:
Lean mass explains the association between muscular fitness and bone outcomes in 13-year-old boys.

Abstract:
Longitudinal Adaptations of Bone Mass, Geometry, and Metabolism in Adolescent Male Athletes: the PRO-BONE Study.

Abstract:
Soft tissues, areal bone mineral density and hip geometry estimates in active young boys: the PRO-BONE study.

Abstract:
The Impact of Sport Participation on Bone Mass and Geometry in Male Adolescents.

Abstract:
The influence of birth weight and length on bone mineral density and content in adolescence: the Tromsø Study, Fit Futures.

Abstract:
Effect of a program of short bouts of exercise on bone health in adolescents involved in different sports: the PRO-BONE study protocol.

Abstract:
Football for promotion of bone health across lifespan.

Abstract:
Bone health: the independent and combined effects of calcium, Vitamin D and exercise in children and adolescents

Abstract:
How Different Loading Sports and a 9-Month Plyometric Intervention Programme Affect Bone Turnover Markers During Adolescence: the PRO-BONE Study

Abstract:
Cross-sectional and longitudinal associations between the 24-hour movement behaviours, including muscle and bone strengthening activity, with bone and lean mass from childhood to adolescence.

Abstract:
Resistance training presents beneficial effects on bone development of adolescents engaged in swimming but not in impact sports: ABCD Growth Study.

Abstract:
The effect of the Mid-Day Meal programme on the longitudinal physical growth from childhood to adolescence in India.

Abstract:
Citizen Science to improve healthy and active living among adolescents in four European countries: a protocol of the cluster randomised controlled trial of the Science Engagement to Empower aDolescentS (SEEDS) project.

Abstract:
Determinants of bone parameters in young paediatric cancer survivors: the iBoneFIT project.

Abstract:
Physical activity volume and intensity distribution in relation to bone, lean and fat mass in children.

Abstract:
The Influence of Accelerometer Epoch Length on Associations of Physical Activity Intensity and Volume with Bone Outcomes

Abstract:
School-based high-intensity interval training programs in children and adolescents: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract:
The Mediating Role of Endocrine Factors in the Positive Relationship Between Fat Mass and Bone Mineral Content in Children Aged 9–11 Years: the Physical Activity and Nutrition in Children Study

Abstract:
The Mediating Role of Lean Soft Tissue in the Relationship between Somatic Maturation and Bone Density in Adolescent Practitioners and Non-Practitioners of Sports

Abstract:
The Positive Relationship between Moderate-to-Vigorous Physical Activity and Bone Mineral Content is Not Mediated by Free Leptin Index in Prepubertal Children: the PANIC Study

Abstract:
Towards early risk biomarkers: serum metabolic signature in childhood predicts cardio-metabolic risk in adulthood.

Abstract:
Effects of post exercise protein supplementation on markers of bone turnover in adolescent swimmers.

Abstract:
Football for promotion of bone health across lifespan.

Abstract:
The effect of an online exercise programme on bone health in paediatric cancer survivors (iBoneFIT): study protocol of a multi-centre randomized controlled trial

Abstract:
Analysis of Bone Impairment by 3D DXA Hip Measures in Patients with Primary Hyperparathyroidism: a Pilot Study

Abstract:
Effect of maturational timing on bone health in male adolescent athletes engaged in different sports: the PRO-BONE study.

Abstract:
How Different Loading Sports and a 9-Month Plyometric Intervention Programme Affect Bone Turnover Markers During Adolescence: the PRO-BONE Study

Abstract:
A 9-month jumping intervention to improve bone geometry in adolescent male athletes

Abstract:
Agreement Between Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry and Quantitative Ultrasound to Evaluate Bone Health in Adolescents: the PRO-BONE Study.

Abstract:
Agreement Between Standard Body Composition Methods to Estimate Percentage of Body Fat in Young Male Athletes.

Abstract:
Longitudinal determinants of 12-month changes on bone health in adolescent male athletes

Abstract:
The effect of 12-month participation in osteogenic and non-osteogenic sports on bone development in adolescent male athletes. The PRO-BONE study.

Abstract:
The effect of a high-impact jumping intervention on bone mass, bone stiffness and fitness parameters in adolescent athletes.

Abstract:
Body Composition, Nutritional Profile and Muscular Fitness Affect Bone Health in a Sample of Schoolchildren from Colombia: the Fuprecol Study.

Abstract:
Determinants of Bone Outcomes in Adolescent Athletes at Baseline: the PRO-BONE Study.

Abstract:
Exercise-Induced Oxidative Stress Responses in the Pediatric Population.

Abstract:
Lean mass explains the association between muscular fitness and bone outcomes in 13-year-old boys.

Abstract:
Longitudinal Adaptations of Bone Mass, Geometry, and Metabolism in Adolescent Male Athletes: the PRO-BONE Study.

Abstract:
Soft tissues, areal bone mineral density and hip geometry estimates in active young boys: the PRO-BONE study.

Abstract:
The Impact of Sport Participation on Bone Mass and Geometry in Male Adolescents.

Abstract:
The influence of birth weight and length on bone mineral density and content in adolescence: the Tromsø Study, Fit Futures.

Abstract:
Bone health: the independent and combined effects of calcium, Vitamin D and exercise in children and adolescents

Abstract:
Effect of a program of short bouts of exercise on bone health in adolescents involved in different sports: the PRO-BONE study protocol.