bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Neighborhood Correlates of Urban Trail Use
Authors: Lindsey Greg , Han Yuling , Wilson Jeffrey , Yang Jihui 
Published: August 2016

Purpose:To model urban trail traffic as a function of neighborhood characteristics and other factors including weather and day of week.Methods:We used infrared monitors to measure traffic at 30 locations on five trails for periods ranging from 12 months to more than 4 y. We measured neighborhood characteristics using geographic information systems, satellite imagery, and US Census and other secondary data. We used multiple regression techniques to model daily traffic.Results:The statistical model explains approximately 80% of the variation in trail traffic. Trail traffic correlates positively and significantly with income, neighborhood population density, education, percent of neighborhood in commercial use, vegetative health, area of land in parking, and mean length of street segments in access networks. Trail traffic correlates negatively and significantly with the percentage of neighborhood residents in age groups greater than 64 and less than 5.Conclusions:Trail traffic is significantly correlated with neighborhood characteristics. Health officials can use these findings to influence the design and location of trails and to maximize opportunities for increases in physical activity.
Comparison of Two Versions of the PACER Aerobic Fitness Test
Authors: McClain James J. , Welk Gregory J. , Ihmels Michelle , Schaben Jodee 
Published: August 2016

Background:The PACER test is a valid and reliable assessment of aerobic capacity in children. However, many schools lack adequate space to administer the test. This study compared the utility of the standard 20m PACER test with an alternative 15m PACER protocol in 5th and 8th grade students.Methods:A total of 171 students completed both PACER protocols in a counterbalanced design. Agreement between the two protocols was assessed with correlations, repeated-measures ANOVA, and classification agreement into the FITNESSGRAM® healthy fitness zones.Results:The difference in estimated VO2max between the two tests was slightly larger for boys (5th grade, 1.32 ml/kg/min; 8th grade, 1.72 ml/kg/min) than girls (5th grade, 0.14 ml/kg/min; 8th grade, 1.11 ml/kg/min), but these differences are probably not of practical significance. Classification agreement was 88% for boys and 91% for girls.Conclusions:Collectively, the results suggest that the 15m and 20m PACER provide similar information about aerobic fitness in youth. The 20m test is recommended when possible, but the 15m provides a useful alternative for schools with smaller gymnasiums.
Correlates of Using Neighborhood Recreational Destinations in Physically Active Respondents
Authors: McCormack Gavin R. , Giles-Corti Billie , Bulsara Max 
Published: August 2016

Background:This study examines the relationships between the availability and use of recreational destinations and physical activity.Methods:Analysis included n = 1355 respondents. Associations between the density of free and pay-for-use recreational destinations, demographics, and use of free and pay-for-use recreational destinations within the neighborhood were examined, followed by associations with sufficient moderate and vigorous physical activity using generalized estimating equations.Results:The likelihood of using a local pay recreational destination increased for each additional local pay facility (OR 1.51, 95% CI 1.32 to 1.73) and was lower for those with motor vehicle access (OR 0.51, 95% CI 0.26 to 0.99). The likelihood of using a local free destination increased for each additional local free facility (OR 1.12, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.20) and was higher among women (OR 1.64, 95% CI 1.11 to 2.44). Destination use was associated with both moderate and vigorous-intensity physical activity.Conclusions:Increasing the density of neighborhood recreational destinations is associated with the use of facilities and participation in sufficient levels of physical activity.
Environmental, Social, and Personal Correlates of Cycling for Transportation in a Student Population
Authors: Titze Sylvia , Stronegger Willibald J. , Janschitz Susanne , Oja Pekka 
Published: August 2016

Objective:To examine the association between environmental, social, and personal factors and cycling for transportation among university students.Methods:Five hundred and thirty-eight university students participated in the questionnaire study. Multi-nominal regression analysis was applied to identify associations between independent variables and cycling behavior.Results:Forty-one percent of the students were regular cyclists and 15% irregular cyclists. Regular cycling was negatively associated with the perception of traffic safety and positively associated with high safety from bicycle theft, many friends cycling to the university, high emotional satisfaction, little physiological effort, and high mobility. Irregular cycling was positively related with environmental attractiveness and little physiological effort.Conclusions:Improving bicycle parking security and promoting peer support for and positive psychological experiences and convenient mobility of cycling may increase this transport mode among university students.
The Role of Park Proximity and Social Support in Shaping Park Visitation, Physical Activity, and Perceived Health Among Older Adults
Authors: Mowen Andrew , Orsega-Smith Elizabeth , Payne Laura , Ainsworth Barbara , Godbey Geoffrey 
Published: August 2016

Background:Health scholars purport that park proximity and social support promotes physical activity and health. However, few studies examine the combined contributions of these constructs in shaping physical activity and health.Purpose:In this study, the contributions of environmental and social characteristics in shaping park use, physical activity, and health are examined.Methods:A survey was distributed to 1515 older adults in Cleveland, Ohio. Results: Path analysis indicated that social support was directly related to health. Perceived park walking proximity was related to physical activity and health through park use frequency. Park proximity was directly related to park use duration.Conclusions:Results suggest that environmental and social characteristics contribute to physical activity and health, but perceptions may also be a prerequisite to park use, daily physical activity, and health.
Get the News on Physical Activity Research: A Content Analysis of Physical Activity Research in the Canadian Print Media
Authors: Faulkner Guy , Finlay Sara-Jane , Roy Stephannie C. 
Published: August 2016

Background:News media may play a critical role in disseminating research about physical activity and health. This study examined how much physical activity research gets reported in the media and its prominence and credibility.Methods:A content analysis was conducted of the reporting of physical activity research in Canadian national and local newspapers from November 2004 to April 2005.Results:Physical activity research was given some prominence and treated as news through the use of several devices to infer credibility. However, newspapers appeared to invest little in the production of physical activity research as news and information about research methodology was infrequent.Conclusions:While stories reporting physical activity research were given some prominence and credibility, the lack of significant investment and the limited reporting on research methodology suggests that important aspects of research related to physical activity may not be well represented in newspaper coverage.
Quantifying Activity Time via Pedometry in Fifth- and Sixth-Grade Physical Education
Authors: Scruggs Philip W. 
Published: August 2016

Background:The aim of this study was to advance physical activity (PA) surveillance in physical education (PE) by establishing a steps/min guideline that would accurately classify fifth and sixth graders as engaging in PA for 10 min or one-third of the PE lesson time.Methods:Data were collected on 147 (11.48 ± 0.83 y) girls and boys in 14 intact classes from five schools. PA was assessed via behavioral observation (i.e., criterion) and pedometry (i.e., predictor). Logistic and linear regression techniques were employed to generate pedometer steps/min cut points. Classification of outcome probability (c), sensitivity, specificity, and receiver-operating-characteristic (ROC) curve statistics tested the decision accuracy of generated steps/min cut points.Results:PA measures were strongly correlated (r ≥ 0.80, P < 0.01). A steps/min interval of 60 to 62 was the best cut point indicator of students meeting the PA guidelines.Conclusions:Findings support steps/min as an accurate quantifier of PA time in structured PA programs. PA surveillance via pedometry in PE using empirically derived criteria is an objective, valid, and practical mechanism for assessing a primary PE and public health outcome.
Walking and Metabolic Syndrome in Older Adults
Authors: Strath Scott , Swartz Ann , Parker Sarah , Miller Nora , Cieslik Linda 
Published: August 2016

Background:Little data exists describing the impact that walking has on metabolic syndrome (MetS) in a multicultural sample of older adults.Methods:Walking was measured via pedometer in 150 older adults from four different ethnic categories. Steps per day were classified as low (<3,100 steps/d) or high (≥3,100 steps/d) for statistical analyses.Results:Occurrence of MetS was lower in the white (33%) versus non-white population (50%). Low steps/d were related to an increase in MetS for both white (OR = 96.8, 95% CI 12.3-764.6) and non-white individuals (OR = 4.5, 95% CI 1.8-11.3). Low steps/d also increased the odds for selected components of MetS in both the white and non-white groups.Conclusion:Low levels of walking increase the likelihood of having MetS in both white and non-white older adults. Efforts to increase walking in older adults may decrease the likelihood of developing this clustering of disease risk factors.
The Promoting Active Communities Program: Improvement of Michigan’s Self-Assessment Tool
Authors: Alaimo Katherine , Bassett Ellen M. , Wilkerson Risa , Petersmarck Karen , Mosack Jennifer , Mendez David , Coutts Chris , Grost Lisa , Stegmier Lori 
Published: August 2016

Background:This project updated and improved the Promoting Active Communities Program (PAC), a Web-based assessment that enables communities to scrutinize their programs, policies, and environments related to physical activity, generating ideas and community commitment for improvements.Methods:A literature review, focus groups, and expert review guided PAC improvements.Results:Over 150 articles and audit measures in the fields of transportation, public health, and urban planning were reviewed. Indicators were identified, categorized, and evaluated for use in the PAC. Focus-group participants communicated motivations, processes, and obstacles for completing the PAC and developing an action plan. Participants requested technical information to guide them in achieving active-living environments.Conclusions:Information gathered was used to improve the PAC Web site. A technical assistance document, Design Guidelines for Active Michigan Communities, was created to aid communities in creating active-living environments. The new PAC and Design Guidelines are available for public use at www.mihealthtools.org/communities.
Expectancy Beliefs and Perceived Values of Chinese College Students in Physical Education and Physical Activity
Authors: Chen Ang , Liu Xinlan 
Published: August 2016

Background:The expectancy-value theory postulates that motivation relies on individuals’ beliefs of success, perceived Attainment, Intrinsic Interest, and Utility values and Cost. This study examined Chinese college students’ expectancy-value motivation in relation to physical education and self-initiated physical activity.Methods:A random sample of 368 Chinese university students responded to questionnaires on perceived expectancy beliefs, perceived values, and cost in terms of their experiences in mandatory physical education programs and in self-initiated after-school physical activity. They reported their choice decisions for continuing physical education. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, χ2, logistic and linear regressions.Results:The physical education curriculum was perceived as a major cost to motivation. Motivated by the Intrinsic Interest and Utility value, most students chose to continue to take physical education. Self-initiated after-school physical activity was motivated by the Attainment value only. No association was found between self-initiated physical activity and Liking or Disliking of physical education.Conclusion:Motivation for physical education and for self-initiated physical activity derived from different perceived values. The Attainment value motivates the students for self-initiated physical activity, whereas Intrinsic Interest and Utility values motivate them to choose to continue physical education.
Differences in Leisure-Time Activities According to Level of Physical Activity in Adolescents
Authors: Mota Jorge , Santos Maria Paula , Ribeiro José Carlos 
Published: August 2016

Background:The main goals of this study were: (1) to examine the relationship between physical activity (PA) involvement and other leisure activities in a sample of Portuguese youth and (2) to analyze gender differences in PA and leisure-time activity structure.Methods:The sample comprised 1123 adolescents that were classified according to PA levels as active (n = 589) and nonactive (n = 534). A questionnaire assessing leisure-time activities was used.Results:Girls were significantly more engaged in social leisure, dutiful, and individual artistic activities during leisure time, whereas boys were more involved in sports and computer and TV viewing activities. Significant associations between PA and social leisure were found in girls (r = .18, P ≤ .001) and boys (r = .13, P ≤ .01) after adjustment for age. The same was found between level of PA and sports engagement during leisure (girls: r = .56, P ≤ .001; boys: r = .51, P ≤ .001). In girls (r = .10, P ≤ .05), but not in boys, a statistically significant association was found between PA and individual artistic activities.Conclusions:This study has certain implications for health-related PA promotion efforts. Our data give additional reinforcement to the importance of organized and nonorganized sports/PA during leisure time for overall levels of PA in adolescents.
Associations Between Parents’ and 12-Year-Old Children’s Sport and Vigorous Activity: The Role of Self-Esteem and Athletic Competence
Authors: Eriksson Marit , Nordqvist Tobias , Rasmussen Finn 
Published: August 2016

Background:The aims of this study were to investigate parent–child physical activity (PA) associations and whether children’s self-esteem or athletic competence mediates such associations.Methods:The study population comprised 1124 12-year-old children and their parents. Parents’ PA was assessed using the Baecke questionnaire and a question about sport participation. Children’s PA was assessed by questions about participation in sport and vigorous activities. The children’s self-esteem and athletic competence were assessed by Harter’s Self-Perception Profile for Adolescents.Results:Parents’ PA was strongly associated with their children’s PA. With 2 active parents, the odds ratio for their children to participate in sport was 3.9 (95% CI = 2.2–6.9, girls) and 8.8 (95% CI = 4.3–18.0, boys) compared with having inactive parents. Athletic competence partly mediated these associations.Conclusions:The family is an important target for interventions to increase PA among children, and it might be important to consider ways to reinforce children’s athletic competence.
Are Current Body Mass Index Referenced Pedometer Step-Count Recommendations Applicable to US Youth?
Authors: Beets Michael W. , Le Masurier Guy C. , Beighle Aaron , Rowe David A. , Morgan Charles F. , Rutherford Jack , Wright Michael , Darst Paul , Pangrazi Robert 
Published: August 2016

Background:The purpose of this study was to cross-validate international BMI-referenced steps/d cut points for US girls (12,000 steps/d) and boys (15,000 steps/d) 6 to 12 years of age.Methods:Secondary pedometer-determined physical activity data from US children (N = 1067; 633 girls and 434 boys, 6 to 12 years) were analyzed. Using international BMI classifications, cross-validation of the 12,000 and 15,000 steps/d cut points was examined by the classification precision, sensitivity, and specificity for each age–sex stratum.Results:For girls (boys) 6 to 12 years, the 12,000 (15,000) steps/d cut points correctly classified 42% to 60% (38% to 67%) as meeting (achieved steps/d cut point and healthy weight) and failing (did not achieve steps/d cut point and overweight). Sensitivity ranged from 55% to 85% (64% to 100%); specificity ranged from 23% to 62% (19% to 50%).Conclusion:The utility of pedometer steps/d cut points was minimal in this sample given their inability to differentiate among children who failed to achieve the recommended steps/d and exhibited an unhealthy weight. Caution, therefore, should be used in applying previous steps/d cut points to US children.
Factors Associated With Exercise Counseling and Program Preferences Among Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Rogers Laura Q. , Courneya Kerry S. , Verhulst Steven , Markwell Stephen J. , McAuley Edward 
Published: August 2016

Objective:Our aim was to assess differences in exercise counseling preferences, program preferences, and telephone/Internet access among breast cancer survivors based on exercise behavior and demographic, medical, social cognitive, and environmental factors.Methods:A self-administered survey was returned by 192 breast cancer survivors.Results:Participants were Caucasian (98%), and the mean age was 64 ± 11.5 years. Participants preferring an exercise specialist were more likely to report current treatment, higher self-efficacy, greater perceived barriers, and a residential environment conducive to physical activity. Participants preferring face-to-face counseling and exercising outdoors were younger, and those preferring to exercise alone and at home reported lower social support. Low-intensity exercise was preferred by participants who were sedentary, obese, less self-efficacious, enjoyed exercise less, perceived greater barriers, and reported lower social support. Participants with Internet access were more apt to be younger with higher income and greater social support.Conclusions:Demographic, medical, social cognitive, and environmental factors might influence exercise preferences and Internet access. Future research assessing the effectiveness of tailoring interventions based on these factors is warranted.
Validation of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Among Blacks
Authors: Wolin Kathleen Y. , Heil Daniel P. , Askew Sandy , Matthews Charles E. , Bennett Gary G. 
Published: August 2016

Background:The International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-S) has been evaluated against accelerometer-determined physical activity measures in small homogenous samples of adults in the United States. There is limited information about the validity of the IPAQ-S in diverse US samples.Methods:142 Blacks residing in low-income housing completed the IPAQ-S and wore an accelerometer for up to 6 days. Both 1- and 10-minute accelerometer bouts were used to define time spent in light, moderate, and vigorous physical activity.Results:We found fair agreement between the IPAQ-S and accelerometer-determined physical activity (r = .26 for 10-minute bout, r = .36 for 1-minute bout). Correlations were higher among men than women. When we classified participants as meeting physical activity recommendations, agreement was low (kappa = .04, 10-minute; kappa = .21, 1-minute); only 25% of individuals were classified the same by both instruments (10-minute bout).Conclusions:In one of the few studies to assess the validity of a self-reported physical activity measure among Blacks, we found moderate correlations with accelerometer data, though correlations were weaker for women. Correlations were smaller when IPAQ-S data were compared using a 10- versus a 1-minute bout definition. There was limited evidence for agreement between the instruments when classifying participants as meeting physical activity recommendations.
Experiences of Route and Task-Based Walking in a University Community: Qualitative Perspectives in a Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Gilson Nicholas , McKenna Jim , Cooke Carlton 
Published: August 2016

Background:This study explored the experiences of university employees recruited to a 10-week randomized controlled trial (n = 64). The trial compared “walking routes” with “walking-while-working” on daily step totals, showing that, compared with controls, interventions resulted in around 1000 extra steps per day.Methods:A subsample of 15 academic and administrative employees from intervention groups completed interviews at the end of intervention. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and subject to inductive coding within the major themes of benefits/positives and problems/barriers.Findings:Both interventions benefited employee health and work productivity but were difficult to implement in the workplace. Involvement in walking routes was challenged by the difficulties of managing time pressures, and individuals assigned to walking-while-working had to deal with local management subcultures favoring physical presence and inactivity.Conclusions:Findings highlight the need for further research, advocate the value of walking at work, and provide insights into the challenges that face staff in workplace interventions.
Profile Differences of Users of Paved Versus Natural-Surface Trails
Authors: Reed Julian A. , Morrison Andrea , Arant Cheryl-Anne 
Published: August 2016

Background:The goal of this study was to examine activity behavior differences between users of natural-surface versus paved trails.Methods:The System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC) direct observation instrument was used to measure activity and demographic information. Survey data were used to compare perception difference and body mass index (BMI) values among trail users.Results:Significantly more paved-trail users were female (F = 10.63, P = .001). A larger percentage of paved-trail users reported it to be very safe (F = 4.462, P = .036). Natural-surface-trail users participated in more vigorous activity (F = 83.93, P = .000). Natural-surface-trail users reported participating in longer activity bouts (F = 5.133; P = .024).Conclusion:Natural-surface-trail users engaged in more vigorous activity, for a longer duration, and had lower self-reported BMI values.