bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fresh produce on the loose: examining the coherence between plastic packaging and food waste policy using the case study of fruit and vegetables in the UK
Authors: Greenwood Sarah , Reynolds Christian
Published: September 2024

The UK fresh produce sector (fruit and vegetables) uses 38 kt of plastic consumer packaging per year and is the fifth largest product category for the creation of plastic waste in the UK. One way of addressing this is to sell fresh produce loose, without packaging. This study takes a mixed methods approach of a literature search of historical loose produce trials and a policy coherence analysis of plastic packaging and food waste policy, addressing the research gaps in those areas. The results are used to check progress against UK Plastics Pact (UKPP) targets and alignment with Courtauld 2030 (C2030) and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12.3 on food waste. Both methods highlight a tension between food waste and plastics reduction policies at all levels and the literature survey shows there is now a will amongst retailers to overcome this. This incoherence is mitigated using caveats in the plastics policies, such as ‘where shelf-life is unaffected’. There is additional scope to harmonise further by addressing compostables and reduction targets. Supermarkets’ plastics policies are shown to be generally coherent with each other and the pact, but implementation of individual policies between retailers varies considerably. For the removal of consumer packaging from fresh produce to continue, food waste in the supply chain, the amount of transit packaging used, and wider social engagement on packaging and food waste must be considered. The need for better data on packaging usage is highlighted.
Blood Pressure Trajectories During Young Adulthood and Cardiovascular Events in Later Life
Authors: Xia Mengying , An Jaejin , Fischer Heidi , Allen Norrina B , Xanthakis Vanessa , Zhang Yiyi
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

Studying the association between blood pressure (BP) trajectories during young adulthood and subsequent cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk can provide insights into how long-term BP patterns in early-life influence the development of CVD later in life.

METHODS

We pooled data from 2 US cohorts (Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults, Framingham Heart Study). We used latent growth curve models to identify distinct BP trajectory groups between ages 18 and 39 years. We then used Cox proportional hazards models to assess the associations between BP trajectories and CVD events (composite of coronary heart disease [CHD], stroke, and heart failure [HF]) after age 40 years.

RESULTS

We included 6,579 participants and identified 4 distinct systolic BP (SBP) trajectory groups during young adulthood. During a median follow-up of 18.2 years after age 40 years, 213 CHD, 139 stroke, 120 HF, and 400 composite CVD events occurred. Individuals in an elevated-increasing vs. low-stable SBP trajectory during young adulthood were associated with a higher risk of CVD after adjusting for traditional CVD risk factors, with hazard ratios (95% confidence interval) of 3.25 (1.63, 6.46) for CHD, 3.92 (1.63, 9.43) for stroke, 8.30 (2.97, 23.17) for HF, and 3.91 (2.38, 6.41) for composite CVD outcomes. Adding BP trajectory to BP at baseline improved model discrimination for all outcomes (changes in Harrell’s C-index 0.0084–0.0192).

CONCLUSIONS

An elevated-increasing BP trajectory during young adulthood is associated with a higher risk of CVD later in life, highlighting the importance of maintaining a low-stable BP trajectory throughout the young adulthood period for prevention of CVD in later life.
Global mRNA profiling reveals the effect of boron as a crop protection tool against Sclerotinia sclerotiorum
Authors: Cale Natalie L , Walker Philip L , Sankar Sanjana , Robertson Sean M , Wilkins Olivia , Belmonte Mark F
Published: September 2024

Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, the causal agent of white mould, is a necrotrophic fungal pathogen responsible for extensive crop loss. Current control options rely heavily on the application of chemical fungicides that are becoming less effective and may lead to the development of fungal resistance. In the current study, we used a foliar application of boron to protect Brassica napus (canola) from S. sclerotiorum infection using whole-plant infection assays. Application of boron to aerial surfaces of the canola plant reduced the number of S. sclerotiorum-forming lesions by 87 % compared to an untreated control. Dual RNA sequencing revealed the effect of boron on both the host plant and fungal pathogen during the infection process. Differential gene expression analysis and gene ontology term enrichment further revealed the mode of action of a foliar boron spray at the mRNA level. A single foliar application of boron primed the plant defence response through the induction of genes associated with systemic acquired resistance while an application of boron followed by S. sclerotiorum infection-induced genes associated with defence response-related cellular signalling cascades. Additionally, in S. sclerotiorum inoculated on boron-treated B. napus, we uncovered gene activity in response to salicylic acid breakdown, consistent with salicylic acid-dependent systemic acquired resistance induction within the host plant. Taken together, this study demonstrates that a foliar application of boron results in priming of the B. napus plant defence response, likely through systemic acquired resistance, thereby contributing to increased tolerance to S. sclerotiorum infection.
Gene regulatory network inference based on novel ensemble method
Authors: Yang Bin , Li Jing , Li Xiang , Liu Sanrong
Published: September 2024

Gene regulatory networks (GRNs) contribute toward understanding the function of genes and the development of cancer or the impact of key genes on diseases. Hence, this study proposes an ensemble method based on 13 basic classification methods and a flexible neural tree (FNT) to improve GRN identification accuracy. The primary classification methods contain ridge classification, stochastic gradient descent, Gaussian process classification, Bernoulli Naive Bayes, adaptive boosting, gradient boosting decision tree, hist gradient boosting classification, eXtreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), multilayer perceptron, light gradient boosting machine, random forest, support vector machine, and k-nearest neighbor algorithm, which are regarded as the input variable set of FNT model. Additionally, a hybrid evolutionary algorithm based on a gene programming variant and particle swarm optimization is developed to search for the optimal FNT model. Experiments on three simulation datasets and three real single-cell RNA-seq datasets demonstrate that the proposed ensemble feature outperforms 13 supervised algorithms, seven unsupervised algorithms (ARACNE, CLR, GENIE3, MRNET, PCACMI, GENECI, and EPCACMI) and four single cell–specific methods (SCODE, BiRGRN, LEAP, and BiGBoost) based on the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, area under the precision–recall curve, and F1 metrics.
200 Reflections on Ireland’s Physical Literacy Journey
Authors: Connolly Sinead , Murtagh Elaine , O’Brien Wesley , Goss Hannah
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Recognition of the importance of physical literacy (PL) in promoting lifelong physical activity, health, and well-being stems from the early beginnings of work in the early 2000s. This paper aims to explore the development of physical literacy in Ireland and Northern Ireland over the past 20 years.

Policy Description

Since the early 2000s, on the Island of Ireland, education, sport bodies, local authorities and researchers were progressive and innovative in developing a range of physical literacy (PL) projects. Work was initially disjointed. In 2009, collaboration between Sport Ireland and Sport NI established the Lifelong Involvement in Sport and Physical Activity framework and the cross sectoral PL Task and Finish Group marked a more strategic, evidenced-based and cooperative approach to PL developments. More recently, several university-based PL research initiatives have developed and evaluated programmes, including Y-Path, Project FLAME, and Moving Well-Being Well. The Active School Programme and Curriculum Sport Programmes in Northern Ireland gained traction. Unfortunately, PL developments continue to be hampered by a lack of cross-sectoral coordination and sustainable funding, leading to some flagship developments being stalled. Latterly, attempts have been made to integrate PL into national and regional policies related to education, health, and sport e.g. Active Living - the new Sport and Physical Activity Strategy for Northern Ireland (Department of Communities NI) and The Healthy Ireland – ‘Get Ireland Active’, National Activity Plan for Ireland. Most recently, a key milestone was the development of the All-Island Physical Literacy Consensus Statement, the first of its kind in Europe and uniquely covers two jurisdictions. This statement provides opportunities for implementation at an individual, organisational, and systemic levels to promote effective advocacy and development of PL in Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Conclusions

By examining the background, early policy, research, programmes, the process of developing a consensus statement, the current position in policy, and the challenges for implementation, this paper aims to contribute to the understanding of physical literacy promotion in the region. It also offers valuable insights and recommendations for future efforts to enhance physical literacy and improve the health and well-being of individuals in Ireland and Northern Ireland.
239 The Influence of role models on participation in sport and physical activity among young males and females in Ireland
Authors: Kelly Eimear , Liston Katie , Dowd Kieran , Lane Aoife
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study is to describe the influence of role models (RMs) on sport participation (SP) and physical activity (PA) levels in adolescent males and females across Ireland, and specifically to understand sex specific differences given that young males are typically more active and play more sport than their female counterparts.

Methods

Two sporting role model questions were included in the 2022 All Island Children’s Sport Participation and Physical Activity Study (CSPPA) Study. The sample included 5,815 participants (aged 10-19 years) from primary (N = 2,265) and post primary (N = 3,551) schools. Binary logistic regression was used to determine the relationship between RMs, such as parents, coaches, and sports stars with PA and SP.

Results

The majority (84%) of youth are not meeting PA guidelines, with males more sufficiently physically active (20% v 11.9%) than females. Weekly SP (52.4% v 47.6%) and sport club membership (69.6% v 65.4%) is also higher in males. The most popular sporting RMs across all youth are sports stars, coaches, Dad’s and friends with sports stars, Dad’s and coaches most influential on PA and SP. Male and female youth with sports star RMs were on average twice as likely to meet PA guidelines and play sport weekly (p<.05), the latter stronger for males. All youth appear to select sports star RMs in the sport they play, while males are more likely to choose male and international sports stars and females are equally likely to choose male and female, and Irish rather than international sports stars as RMs.

Conclusions

Role models, particularly sports stars, appear to influence SP and PA in Irish youth with some differences across gender. Young people select ‘relevant’ sport stars as RMs in terms of sport and gender, with the latter more notable for males perhaps suggesting a lack of visibility and availability of female sport stars. Given the policy context and potential impact of sports stars on SP and PA, there is an opportunity to further understand and leverage how young females in particular select and engage with sport stars to increase SP and PA.

Support/Funding Source

TUS President Doctors Scholarship
126 An examination of changes in an academic year in the Post-primary whole-school physical activity program
Authors: Ng Kwok , McHale Fiona , Murtagh Elaine , Woods Catherine
Published: September 2024

Whole-school physical activity (PA) programmes are widely recommended for PA promotion by the international society of PA for health. In Ireland, the Active School Flag (ASF) is such a programme and is supported by both Departments of Education and Health with the purpose of increasing PA opportunities for the whole school community, focusing mainly on students. The ASF programme is research informed acting at multi-levels (students, staff and management) with multi-components including peer-led activities, student voice, environmental changes and whole-school events throughout the year. The purpose of this study was to compare outcomes between intervention and control schools after one year.

Students, from a random class from six schools, that was comprised of three intervention (n = 346) and three matched case control (n = 275), were recruited at baseline. Survey measures included PA behaviours and its correlates, such as screen time, perceived health, self-efficacy, intention for PA, peer support, scholastic competencies, student autonomy, and the health, mood and family subdomains of Kidscreen. The survey was administered at the beginning and end of the academic year. Mean differences between the two-time points within groups were tested through paired samples t-tests and between groups with repeated ANOVA.

Findings

The overall characteristics between the two conditions were similar at baseline. A 72% retention rate (n = 442) made up the final dataset. At the end of the year, there was a statistically significant (p<.05) reduction in PA, self-efficacy, student autonomy, and family well-being among students in the intervention schools. Statistically significant (p<.05) reductions in expectations, peer support, student autonomy and mood among students in control schools (n = 173). There was a between group effect in perceive health (p<.001), whereby students in the intervention group increased levels of perceived health, but not among the students in control schools.

Interpretations

This whole-school PA intervention is a complex study. According to the results, the programme shows evidence of promise on perceive health. These results from a pilot study pave way for conducting a larger study at scale.
36 Physical activity and sedentary behaviour among Slovenian police officers
Authors: Loredan Nastja Podrekar , Kastelic Kaja , Žitnik Jure , Šarabon Nejc
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Police officers (PO) are exposed to several health-related risk factors including shift work, extended work schedules, dangerous, and traumatic events. Although police work is often seen as active, PO spend the majority of worktime sitting in offices or driving cars. The prevalence of sedentary behaviour (SB) and physical activity (PA) among Slovenian PO is obscure. Therefore, the aim of this project was to assess the level of PA and SB among Slovenian PO and to design a health promotion programme.

Methods

The online Sleep, Sedentary Behaviour and Physical Activity Questionnaire (DABQ) was sent via e-mail to 1,500 members of the police union. 480 PO (age 46.8 ± 8.1 years, 75% males) completed the questionnaire, out of which 66 PO (age 41.7 ± 7.2 years, 74% males) agreed to participate in the objective assessment of SB and PA and wore activPAL and ActiGraph accelerometers for a period of ten days. Based on the findings the health promotion programme was developed, focusing on reducing SB, promoting PA and emphasizing the importance of workplace ergonomics. It consisted of educational part, workshops and development of a mobile application for enhancing daily PA.

Results

The results of the questionnaire indicate that 62% of PO achieve World Health Organisation recommendations for weekly PA, 34% perform separate strength and power training. However, PO spent 9.7 ± 3.5 h/day sedentary, out of which 7.4 ± 2.6 h during worktime. Only 7% of PO use active transport. The results of the objective assessment suggest that the prevalence of SB among PO is 10.5 ± 1.5 h/day, time spent in low-intensity PA 4.9 ± 1.2 h/day and 1.3 ± 0.5 h/day in moderate to vigorous PA. The health promotion programme that followed the assessments was very well received among PO.

Conclusions

The results suggest high levels of SB among Slovenian PO, especially during worktime. On the other hand, more than half of PO meet current recommendations for weekly PA. Based on the results and feedback from the participating PO, the implementation of health promotion programmes in police forces is strongly recommended on national level.
206 Purpose and Audience of Public Policies Promoting Physical Activity and Reducing Sedentary Behavior in South American Countries
Authors: Dos Santos Pinheiro Ingrid Kelly Alves , de Moraes Ferrari Gerson Luis , Pereira da Silva Danilo Rodrigues
Published: September 2024

Objective

To explore the purpose and audience of public policies for promoting physical activity and reducing sedentary behavior in South American countries.

Methods

This is a descriptive and documentary research conducted in five steps: 1) identification of representatives in South American countries, including key researchers, professionals, and/or policymakers in the field; 2) search for policies already cataloged in the inventory of the Global Observatory for Physical Activity; 3) consultation with national representatives of the South American Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior Network regarding the main public policies and contacts of individuals directly and/or indirectly involved in these policies in their countries; 4) search for policies on official websites in each of the countries. Documents presenting details on physical activity policy, program, or national plan were included, representing only national-level policies. Following the Comprehensive Analysis of Policy on Physical Activity (CAPPA), information from the identified documents was extracted into a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet and presented by country/document, with a descriptive analysis of the data.

Results

55 public policies for promoting physical activity were identified, with 25% found in Chile, and no documents regarding the reduction of sedentary behavior. Most documents (42%) focused exclusively on promoting physical activity. Furthermore, these documents target the general population (82%); however, there are no documents specifically targeting women, pregnant women, elderly individuals, or people with disabilities.

Conclusions

A significant portion of the documents are public policies aimed at promoting physical activity for the general population. There should be encouragement for the development of public policies that also aim to reduce sedentary behavior, as well as policies that are inclusive of populations that, for various reasons, are more likely to have low levels of physical activity.
151 The Impact of a community based exercise rehabilitation program (ExWell Medical) on people with diverse chronic illnesses
Authors: Skelly Fiona , McCaffrey Noel , Byrne Emmett , McCarren Andrew , Kennelly Seán P
Published: September 2024

Background

Chronic diseases (CD) represent a substantial and growing burden on health care services globally and are the current leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Exercise rehabilitation has the potential to enhance functional capacity and quality of life (QoL) for those living with CD, regardless of specific condition. Community-based exercise rehabilitation (CBER) programs offer a highly scalable and feasible means of extending the outreach of exercise rehabilitation for the CD population. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of 12 weeks of community-based exercise rehabilitation program (CBER) on individuals with a range of CDs.

Methods

Adults with a range of CD were enrolled in a CBER (ExWell Medical). Measurements of body composition, physical functioning and health-related quality of life were conducted at three timepoints; baseline, 6 wks and 12 wks. Participants attended 2 classes per week for the duration of the study. Each class was 45 mins in duration and included a combination of aerobic, resistance and balance training.

Results

A total of 310 participants (mean age 70.0 ± 11.2 yrs; 45.1% male) were recruited for this study. Significant improvements were observed in body composition (p = 0.001, Cohen’s D = 0.02), cardiorespiratory fitness (p < 0.001, Cohen’s D = 0.74), lower body strength (p < 0.001, Cohen’s D = 0.32), functional mobility (p < 0.001, Cohen’s D = 0.08), and self-rated health (p < 0.001, Cohen’s D = 0.06). The majority of improvements were achieved by the 6 wk assessment and maintained at 12 wks. Individuals with lower levels of cardiorespiratory fitness at baseline exhibited a greater percentage improvement at 12 weeks.

Conclusion

The ExWell Medical CBER is an effective approach to the secondary prevention of CD. Clinically meaningful improvements in physical functioning can be achieved within as little as 6 wks. Adopting an integrated approach to exercise rehabilitation, has the potential to widen the access of this service to the growing CD population in Ireland.
214 Moving Forward - Exercise Promotion At A Major Trauma Centre
Authors: Connolly Ruairi , MacSuibhne Eanna , Long Sinead , Dunphy Michael , Halpin Stephen
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Returning to exercise after traumatic injuries is essential. Regular movement plays a crucial role in rehabilitation and long-term health. Returning to exercise post trauma can be difficult due to new impairment, pain and fear of re-injury. With our initiative – Moving Forward – we aimed to integrate exercise promotion into care provision at a major trauma centre. The goal was to empower patients to exercise by providing them with personalised exercise programmes, information and peer support from inclusive sports organisations in their communities.

Project Description

Development: Patients required insight into their injuries and personalised exercise programmes to support their rehabilitation. Collaborating closely with trauma facing services we developed a trauma care booklet. Each booklet was personalised to the patient and provided insights into their injuries as well as a tailor made exercise programme. The booklet highlighted the benefits of exercise, personalised exercise progressions and named contacts for peer support networks and sports communities in their region. A networking exercise facilitated identification of inclusive exercise resources. Booklet design was supported by an innovation designer.

Implementation

A key worker was nominated for each patient who provided the trauma care booklet. Early provision of this document allowed the patient time to implement exercises in a supported environment. Exercise programmes were personalised and designed in collaboration with a Rehabilitation Medicine Consultant and trauma physiotherapists. Patients also availed of trauma psychology support. Liaison with suitable sports organisations and community services were made prior to hospital discharge.

Evaluation

Patient outcomes, satisfaction and adherence to exercise programs were assessed. Feedback was incorporated to refine and enhance our services, ensuring it remained responsive to the diverse needs of our patients.

Dissemination

Our experiences and methodologies are being shared through conferences and collaborative networks to inspire similar initiatives and foster a culture of exercise promotion within trauma care settings globally.

Conclusions

Integrating exercise promotion into trauma care is possible. Empowering patients with personalised exercise programmes and peer support facilitates long term adherence to exercise. Fostering links with inclusive sports organisations can support patients to pursue sports and exercise long after discharge from a major trauma centre.
209 A pilot rehabilitation programme for individuals experiencing symptoms of long-COVID: Results from a service evaluation
Authors: Wilson Jason , Kensett Kim , O’Reilly Rachel , Tully Mark
Published: September 2024

Purpose

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, long-COVID has emerged as a public health issue. There are unique challenges when it comes to exercising for those with long-COVID. Therefore, this service evaluation aimed to highlight the impact of a 12-week physical activity instructor-led programme, delivered via video-conferencing, on mental wellbeing and physical function in individuals experiencing symptoms of long-COVID.

Methods

Thirty-three adults with long COVID, who had previously completed a physiotherapy-led rehabilitation programme, were invited to take part in a 12-week physical activity instructor-led pilot rehabilitation programme between June 2021 and August 2022. The intervention was delivered virtually, twice weekly, by two qualified physical activity instructors. Activities included strength and balance work, core-strengthening, and functional movement exercises. Outcome measures were collected at baseline, 6 weeks and 12 weeks (post-intervention), including self-reported mental wellbeing and physical function (i.e. 2-minute walk test/2MWT, 1-minute sit-to-stand test/1MSTST and handgrip dynamometry). Due to the exploratory nature of the intervention, minimal clinically important differences (MCID) were used to determine the intervention’s impact.

Results

Twenty participants completed the full intervention (i.e. 39.4% attrition rate). On average, mental-wellbeing scores increased by 2.05±2.70 units at post-intervention compared to baseline, which is within the estimated MCID of 1-3 units. In terms of the 1MSTST, this increased by 1.25±3.45 repetitions at post-intervention compared to baseline, although did not exceed the estimated MCID of at least 3 repetitions. Distance covered in the 2MWT increased by 5.96±17.42 metres at post-intervention compared to baseline, which exceeded the estimated MCID of at least 5.50 metres. Although dominant handgrip strength increased by 3.58±6.71 kilograms at post-intervention compared to baseline, this did not exceed the estimated MCID of at least 5.00 kilograms.

Conclusions

A virtually delivered 12-week pilot rehabilitation programme resulted in improved mental wellbeing and aerobic capacity, in comparison to MCIDs established in other clinical populations, in individuals experiencing symptoms of long-COVID. The findings demonstrate that virtually delivered exercise interventions specifically designed for those with symptoms of long-COVID, using activities which require little-to-no equipment, may result in clinically meaningful health benefits.

Support/Funding Source

This study received funding from the Belfast Health Development Unit.
187 A Systematic Review of Dance Programs on Health and Wellbeing of Children and Adolescents
Authors: O’Connor Fergal , O’Reilly Siobhán , Clifford Amanda , Brosnan Patrick , Whiston Aoife
Published: September 2024

Background

Physical inactivity is a prevalent issue in youths, with less than 25% of children achieving the recommended 60 minutes of physical activity daily. Dance is a form of physical activity that can improve physical and mental wellbeing within different populations. The primary aim of this review was to explore the effectiveness of dance as a form of physical activity for children and adolescents.

Methods

A structured search strategy was conducted across seven databases to identify randomised controlled trials that investigated the effectiveness of dance programs on school-going children and adolescents. Studies published from January 2003 to December 2023 were included. Data regarding study characteristics including participants, dance interventions, and outcomes of interest were extracted and narratively synthesised. A meta-analysis was performed on outcomes where possible.

Results

Seventeen studies met the inclusion criteria, the majority of which were of good quality and had a low risk of bias based on the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale and Risk of Bias 2 tools respectively. Despite most studies reporting positive effects, following meta-analysis, no significant improvements were found on working memory or non-executive cognitive function, with high levels of heterogeneity observed for both groups. Negative effects on non-executive cognitive function were reported by one study which incorporated a short dance intervention (10 minutes per week x 9 weeks) In general, the effect of dance interventions on physical activity and on physiological characteristics were equivocal showing either no effect, slight improvements, or significant improvements. These mixed results indicated that dance had similar effects as regular physical education (PE) classes but showed slight improvements over educational lessons and no intervention.

Conclusion

Of the studies included, there were mixed results regarding the effect of dance interventions on cognitive, physical activity, and physiological outcomes for children and adolescents. The studies that used a suitable intervention duration reported no negative effects which suggests that dance can be used as a safe exercise modality and provide similar benefits to regular PE lessons. Further research should include larger sample sizes, interventions tailored towards the intended outcome, and use established core outcome sets to facilitate easier comparability across trials.
83 Barriers and Enablers to Interrupting Sedentary Behaviour when Working from Home in a Desk-Based Occupation: A Qualitative Exploration of the Older Employee Experience
Authors: Mott Lily , Money Annemarie , Parchment Amelia , Johnson Sheena , Todd Chris
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Those employed in desk-based occupations sit for large amounts of their working day, often in long uninterrupted bouts, exposing them to the health risks associated with sedentary behaviour (SB). With more workplaces offering home-working options, it is important to explore how this environment influences SB. With the number of older workers (≥50) increasing, it is vital to promote healthy ageing in the workplace and ensure this population are not put at increased risk due to occupational sitting. This is especially important considering the increased risk of health conditions as we age. This study aims to use the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) alongside the Capability Opportunity Motivation Behaviour (COM-B) model to identify the barriers and enablers to interrupting and reducing SB in older employees (≥50) working from home in desk-based occupations. Targeting older employees in the homeworking environment is an understudied area of research.

Methods

Twenty-two participants aged ≥50 took part in one-to-one semi-structured Zoom interviews from an employer within Greater Manchester. Reflexive thematic analysis is being used to inductively develop themes and sub-themes which will be then deductively mapped and linked to the COM-B and TDF.

Results

Initial responses from participants reveal workload and the nature of work tasks as a key barrier to interrupting SB when working from home. Participants shared they often forget to break up their sitting, demonstrating the habitual nature of SB. Final interviews are being conducted with data analysis to be completed in time for the conference where a more specific presentation of main themes and sub-themes will be presented.

Conclusions

As working from home is imbedded in many workplaces, it is critical to develop a better understanding of how this setting may influence SB in desk-based older workers. This will help inform the development of suitable interventions to reduce and interrupt SB to promote healthy ageing at work prior to retirement.

Support/Funding Source

Dunhill Medical Trust, The NIHR, The University of Manchester
163 Co-Production of a Physical Activity Intervention for Individuals with Severe Mental Illness in a Secure Forensic Ward – A Study Protocol
Authors: Feeney Rebecca , Breslin Gavin , Dempster Martin , Shannon Stephen , Brick Noel , Leavey Gerard
Published: September 2024

Background

Individuals living with Severe Mental Illness (SMI) experience significant health disparities in comparison to the general population including poorer physical health outcomes and reduced life expectancy. Physical activity (PA) plays a key role for improving physical and mental health outcomes in individuals living with SMI, especially those within secure forensic units. However, unique challenges exist in these settings, such as medication side effects, restrictive environments, lack of autonomy, and staff availability to accompany patient engagement in PA.

Purpose

This study protocol describes a co-produce a physical activity intervention development for individuals living with SMI in a secure forensic ward. The intervention will incorporate psychological theory and linked behaviour change techniques, with the main objective of improving mental and physical health outcomes. The co-production model will firstly entail exploring barriers and facilitators influencing behavioural engagement in people with SMI. Second, understanding the staff’s role in promoting PA and establishing a theoretical framework to map PA behaviours throughout the intervention will be described.

Method

The co-production process will involve patients with SMI, clinical staff, and university researchers. Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) will be applied to identify implementation problems and determinants of behaviour, and will guide focus group discussions. The TIDieR checklist will be completed to provide a detailed intervention description.

Results

The results will inform a co-produced physical activity intervention. The intervention will be embedded in behaviour change theory, incorporating behaviour change techniques.

Conclusion

Understanding the factors that influence PA engagement in individuals living with SMI in secure forensic wards is crucial to developing effective interventions. Co- production of a theory-informed PA intervention will contribute to understanding methods to improve health outcomes in an understudied, hard-to-reach population residing in a challenging environment for achievement of behaviour change.

Funding

This PhD programme of research is funded by the Department of Education (DfE).
S01-1: A systems-based approach to physical activity in Scotland: A framework for national and local action
Authors: Jackson Flora
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To share learning from the Public Health Scotland development and application of a pragmatic, evidence-driven, systems-based approach to physical activity policy in Scotland at a national and local level.

Development

Public Health Scotland led the development of A Systems-based Approach to Physical Activity in Scotland: A Framework for National and Local Action. This involved translating the WHO Global Action Plan for Physical Activity (GAPPA) and ISPAH Eight Investments That Work for Physical Activity into a Scottish context and the facilitation of workshops, engaging 80 stakeholders from 47 organisations with a role in the physical activity system.

Through these workshops the approach was tested and refined, core strategic delivery outcomes and associated actions were identified, and a strategic outcomes framework and process developed, that can be used to direct physical activity policy development within national and local government.

Underpinned by the core principles of public health, this approach uses methods familiar to policymakers and practitioners including outcomes focused planning, evidence-based knowledge into action and quality improvement methodologies that operate alongside aspects of systems thinking.

Implementation and dissemination

Adopted by Scottish Government and national partners, the approach has been used collaboratively to develop a new Physical Activity for Health Strategy for Scotland and revise the previously acclaimed Active Scotland Outcomes Framework devised to monitor, evaluate and review progress.

Working in partnership, sportscotland and Public Health Scotland are supporting local government partners apply the systems-based approach, to guide the development of local and regional evidence-based physical activity strategies and action plans.

Evaluation

Implementation is monitored and evaluated via governance structures, national surveillance indicators, process indicators and an ongoing cycle of quality improvement and policy review.

Conclusions and implications for policy and practice

This approach has influenced and guided the development of national and local physical activity strategies and actions plans that embrace the evidence that works to increase population levels of physical activity and reduce inactivity.
S04-1: The PA-EPI: Physical Activity Environment Policy Index
Authors: Woods Catherine
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The ‘Physical Activity Environment Policy Index’ (PA-EPI) is a monitoring tool and framework to assess the extent of implementation of government policies and actions for creating a healthy physical activity (PA) environment.

Methods

The PA-EPI is conceptualised as a two-component ‘policy’ and ‘infrastructure support’ framework. The two components comprise eight policy and seven infrastructure support domains. The policy domains are education, transport, urban design, healthcare, public education (including mass media), sport-for-all, workplaces and community. The infrastructure support domains are leadership, governance, monitoring and intelligence, funding and resources, platforms for interaction, workforce development, and health-in-all-policies. Forty-five ‘good practice statements’ (GPS) or indicators of ideal good practice within each domain concludes the PA-EPI. There is an eight-step process for conducting the PA-EPI which involves developing an evidence document, working with government officials to validate the evidence and benchmarking this evidence with country special PA-EPI councils representing stakeholders and citizens.

Results

Two countries –Ireland and the Netherlands – have completed the PA-EPI. An additional five countries–Germany, Lithuania, Poland, Romania and Slovenia - are in the process. The PA-EPI scores for Ireland and the Netherlands range from little or no evidence of implementation (0) to full implementation (4) across each of the eight policy and seven infrastructure domains. In Ireland of the 45 PA-EPI indicators, one received an implementation rating of ‘very little’, 25 a rating of ‘low’, 19 ‘ medium’ and no indicator was scored ‘full implementation’. For example, indicator SP01 ‘sport policies prioritise investment in initatives that target the least active’ received a medium, while ‘regulations in healthcare include routine screening for physical activity’ was rated to have a low implementation status. Recommendations for addressing critical implementation gaps are being addressed by each country.

Conclusions

The PA-EPI can help policymakers determine where their country is now in relation to the implementation of PA policies and what is possible to change. It also provides pathways for policymakers on how to reach goals to address critical implementation gaps and a mechanism for documenting progress. In time, benchmarks will be established by governments at the forefront of creating and implementing policies to address population levels of inactivity.

Funding source

Policy Evaluation Network (PEN) a Joint Programming Initiative (JPI) “A Healthy Diet for a Healthy Life” and ERA4Health; GA N° 101095426 of the EU Horizon Europe Research and Innovation Programme
S07-1: Why are specific parts of an urban green area used more than others among older adults? A case study utilizing GPS and environmental geographic data
Authors: Keskinen Kirsi E , Kim Eun-Kyeong , Stenholm Sari , Rantanen Taina
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Green areas are known as places attracting physical activity, but less is known about factors contributing to the usage of their specific parts among older adults. Using as study area the ‘Green loop’, an urban green area surrounding Jyväskylä city center, we investigated differences in land use types and on-foot accessibility between ‘Green loop’ parts with different usage intensities among older adults.

Methods

GPS measurements (SenseDocTM 2.0) were conducted over 1-5 days for 231 community-dwelling people over 78 years who lived in Jyväskylä, Finland and participated in the AGNES follow-up study in 2021-22. We identified GPS points indicating active transport and locating in the ‘Green loop’. We generated a point-density map and classified it into three tiers of usage intensity (low/moderate/high). Digiroad data was used to locate walkway entry points and Corine Land Cover data to define land use types (residential/service/industry and transport/nature and green) in the ‘Green loop’. We examined entry point density and, by using the Chi-square test, differences in land use type distributions between the ‘Green loop’ parts with different usage intensities.

Results

More than half (60%) of the ‘Green loop’ area was classified as low-use and only 7 % as high-use. Overall, residential land use type was more common in high than low and moderate-use areas, service more common in low than moderate-use areas, industry and transport more common in moderate than high and low-use areas and more common in high than low-use areas, and green and nature more common in low than high and moderate-use areas (p<.05 for all). Around entry points, service was more common in low than moderate (p<.05) and high-use (p = 0.057) areas. Entry point density was the highest in high and lowest in low-use areas.

Conclusions

Only a limited portion of the ‘Green loop’ area was actively utilized by older adults. Having green spaces located close to residential buildings and more accessible entry points to the green spaces may encourage older adults to spend more time in urban green areas.

Funding Source

European Research Council (TR), Academy of Finland (TR), Ministry of Education and Culture, Finland (TR), Juho Vainio Foundation (KK).
S10-2: Promoting active mobility as a win-win opportunity for sustainable physical activity promotion
Authors: Kahlmeier Sonja
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Promoting active mobility (e.g. cycling, walking) provides win-win opportunities but requires consideration of these often overlooked modes in transport policy and practice. This presentation will introduce the well-tested, evidence-based practical Health Economic Assessment Tool (HEAT) for Walking and Cycling.

Project or policy description

The HEAT calculates: if x people walk or cycle a distance of y on most days, what is the economic value of impacts on premature mortality, taking into account effects of physical activity, air pollution and road fatalities, as well as on carbon emissions. It is developed through an open-ended, evidence- and multidisciplinary-based approach, led by the WHO and an interdisciplinary coordinating team. Each development step is done through consensus meetings with ad-hoc invited international experts from various fields. Since 2021, a globally applicable version of the HEAT is available.

HEAT has been named the “most-used tool for health-impact assessment in transport”, with scientific, policy and practice-related applications across the world. Selected case studies will be presented to illustrate different use-cases as well as its user-interface and workflow.

Conclusions

Since its launch in 2009, the HEAT provides a win-win opportunity for sustainable physical activity promotion, particularly by allowing to also assess carbon-related emission reductions of different transport options on a population level.

The HEAT fosters advocating for transport-solutions that prioritize active transport by using an economic approach customarily used in transport planning.

Funding

The HEAT has been supported by a range of donors, the WHO Regional Office for Europe and WHO Headquarters as well as European Union research projects. A full list of donors can be found on www.heatwalkingcycling.org.
S12-3: How to empower women in difficult life situations to engage in physical activity using a human rights approach?
Authors: Abu-Omar Karim , Sommer Raluca , Sweidan Farah , Till Maike , Ziemainz Heiko
Published: September 2024

Purpose

In the realm of daily life, physical activity should constitute a fundamental component of the people’s routines. However, specific vulnerable population groups (e.g., single mothers, unemployed women, women with low educational attainment) are disadvantaged when seeking to engage in physical activity. By employing a human rights approach, it is crucial to evaluate this issue in order to ensure that disadvantaged women can genuinely exercise their right to participate in physical activity. BIG, a community-based participatory research project, aims to engage disadvantaged women in physical activity through tailored exercise courses and social activities.

Methods

12 semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven women participating in various physical activity courses provided by the BIG program and five project coordinators implementing BIG in different communities. The interviews were analyzed by two researchers using deductive content analysis with a focus on the four human rights criteria.

Results

Despite the presence of various local physical activity offers, women perceive a lack of suitable choices, especially considering their culture and familial circumstances (e.g., small children, Ramadan-feast). BIG aims to address this by creating new offers (availability) and improving accessibility to existing ones. Certain courses hinder women’s participation by lacking a “safe space” for them (e.g., mixed-gender classes), impacting accessibility. Culturally sensitive offers, like schedules aligned with Muslim prayer times, increase acceptability. To ensure the effective implementation of appropriate courses, intercultural competence training was integrated into relevant trainings, enhancing the overall quality of BIG.

Conclusions

Using a human rights-based approach and its four key criteria allows the identification of shortcomings in the promotion of physical activity among disadvantaged women.

Funding source

This research received funding from the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (NU-BIG, 01EL2012A) and the National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Funds (BIG-5, Z2/95022001).