bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
67 Does the volume or intensity of steps matter more on maximal oxygen consumption?
Authors: Vähä-Ypyä Henri , Husu Pauliina , Tokola Kari , Sievänen Harri , Vasankari Tommi 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Both high step count and high intensity of steps are associated with better health outcomes. This study investigates how many daily steps or running steps are associated with higher maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max).

Methods
The dataset was derived from 2135 female and 1439 male participants, aged 20-69 years, who took part in the FinFit2017- and FinFit2021population studies. Their VO2max was predicted using the 6-minute walking test, while daily step and running step counts were measured using accelerometers (UKK RM42). The female and male participants were categorized into ten groups based on VO2max deciles, weighed by age. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to determine the cut-points for the number of steps and running steps that were associated with a specified decile. The optimal cut-point was the point minimizing the Euclidean distance between the ROC curve and the (0,1) point.

Results
The area under curve (AUC) for steps decreased from 0.739 to 0.642 in females and from 0.709 to 0.597 in males as the VO2max decile increased. At the lowest decile, the optimal cut-point was 6033 steps per day for females and 5474 steps per day for males. The step cut-point plateaued at the VO2max level of 30 ml/kg/min for females and at the VO2max level of 35 ml/kg/min for males.
The AUC and cut-points for the running steps showed an upward trend with increasing VO2max. AUC values ranged from 0.686 to 0.788 for females and from 0.701 to 0.768 for males. The cut-points at the highest decile were 234 running steps per day for females and 238 for males.

Conclusions
In this cross-sectional sample of working-aged adults, a greater number of daily steps was associated with higher VO2max up to 7000 steps per day, whereas the running steps did not show a plateau effect. Consequently, our results suggest that individuals with lower levels of physical activity can benefit from increasing their overall physical activity volume. On the other hand, those having higher volumes of physical activity may benefit more by increasing the intensity of their physical activity.

Support/Funding Source
Finnish Ministry of Education and Culture
50 Exercise groups implemented by municipalities promote older adults’ physical functioning
Authors: Saloranta Eerika , Urtamo Annele , Rappe Erja , Jyväkorpi Satu , Kalmari Pirjo , Ylitörmänen Tuija , Öhman Hanna , Borodulin Katja 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Purpose
The implementation and outcomes of physical activity promotion programmes are less studied. This study examines whether physical exercise groups implemented by municipalities are feasible and promote physical functioning among community-dwelling older adults in real-life settings.

Methods
Five municipalities participating in the Strength in Old Age Programme organised guided exercise groups for older adults in Finland. Voluntary participants (mean age 79.6 years (SD 4.2), 74% women) were recruited into strength-balance groups (n = 117) and other exercise groups (n = 34). The strength-balance groups had gym and balance training twice a week. The other groups had chair and balance exercise or senior dance once a week plus home exercise once a week. Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) was conducted before and after an 8–12-week exercise period by local exercise instructors. Statistical analyses included changes in SPPB scores and chair stand time within and between exercise groups (t-test) and in subgroup comparisons (baseline SPPB scores &lt;10 points vs. ≥10 points, ANOVA, Dunnett T3).

Results
All exercise groups were implemented as planned, including the SPPB tests by local exercise instructors. Average attendance rate to guided exercise sessions was 91%. Both exercise groups showed significant improvement in the SPPB scores (strength-balance groups: from 9.8 to 11.0 points, p &lt; 0.001; other groups: from 10.4 to 11.2 points, p &lt; 0.001) and chair stand time (strength-balance groups: from 13.7 to 10.9 seconds (s), p &lt; 0.001; other groups: from 12.3 to 10.9 s, p &lt; 0.001). The strength-balance groups had a greater reduction in the chair stand time compared to the other groups (mean change -2.8 s vs. -1.5 s, p &lt; 0.041). The subgroup analyses showed that participants with lower SPPB baseline scores had a greater improvement in the SPPB scores (F(3,147)=34.61, p &lt; 0.001) and chair stand time (F(3,147)=18.30, p &lt; 0.001) compared to the participants with better baseline functioning.

Conclusions
Municipalities can implement physical exercise groups and mobility tests successfully and promote older adults’ physical functioning in real-life settings. Baseline testing is recommended to identify the target groups that might benefit from training the most.

Funding Source
Juho Vainio Foundation, Päivikki and Sakari Sohlberg Foundation
65 Exploring the experience of beach access in people living with a disability - a mixed methods study
Authors: Czencz James , McKenzie Georgia 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Access to blue spaces and opportunities to be active in the community are important to adults living with a disability. Beach access days are inclusive events that promote physical accessibility and social inclusion. This study aimed to explore the experiences of adults living with a disability attending a beach access day in South West Victoria.

Methods
Employing a mixed-methods research design, five participants (Mean Age: 53.5 years, Male: 4) completed a validated beach accessibility survey tool comprising likert scale and short answer questions regarding barriers, facilitators, and experiences of beach access. Recruitment occurred following the beach access day, with survey links disseminated via email from registration data to eleven attendees. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics for quantitative data and thematic analysis for qualitative data. Participants were offered access to the preliminary study results for feedback.

Results
Based on prelimanary findings, participating in a beach access day event positively impacted the attitudes of individuals with disabilities towards beach access. The qualitative data revealed three themes: 1. Socialisation and recreation - the need to socialise and engage in physical activity within the community; 2. Health and well-being - participants perceived improved accessibility as beneficial to their health; 3. Connection with identity - the beach is not just a place but a part of who they identify as. The quantitative survey data also identified barriers to beach access, including personal health issues, fatigue, difficulty moving on sand, and lack of transfer equipment. However, the study also found that certain facilitators, such as more accessible parking and toilets, transfer equipment like hoists, and physical assistance with beach activities, could help improve beach access for individuals with disabilities.

Conclusion
The study highlights the need to make beaches accessible, and improving access can promote positive outcomes and the desire to participate more often. Inclusive events like beach access days have the potential to improve the health and well-being of people living with a disability and promote more inclusive and disability-aware societies. Communities should invest in such initiatives to make blue space environments more accessible and inclusive for individuals of all abilities.
17 Exploring the feasibility of an mHealth application to enhance physical activity in community-dwelling older adults
Authors: Daniels Kim , Robijns Jolien , Vonck Sharona , Spooren Annemie , Hansen Dominique , Bonnechère Bruno 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Advancements in smartphone technology have paved the way for innovative interventions aimed at promoting physical activity (PA) and have led to the development of an mHealth app called MIA. The primary objective of this feasibility study is to comprehensively investigate the potential of the MIA app in effectively promoting PA and fostering sustained, healthy behaviors among its users.

Methods
A diverse sample of 30 participants aged 65 or older, free of severe illness from the community was recruited. Baseline data was collected on demographics, assessed PA (IPAQ SF), measured PA enjoyment (PACES), and evaluated digital health readiness (DHRQ). Participants used the app while providing real-time feedback via a “think-aloud” protocol. A five-week usage period followed, with post-period PACES assessment and usability measures (SUS, UEQ, NPS, CSAT). We analyzed the app usage patterns with Power BI and gathered qualitative data through five focus groups. Both qualitative and quantitative analyses were employed, assessing clinical relevance alongside statistical significance, and descriptive statistics to summarize results were used.

Results
The study included 30 participants, averaging 69.9±5.3 years old, with 17 females (56.7%) and 13 males (43.3%), primarily having completed higher education (50%) and displaying strong digital literacy skills (average 59.6±8.8). Regarding PA, 10% were inactive, 40% minimally active, and 50% vigorously active, indicating a highly active sample. Usability and acceptance were positive, with an SUS score of 77.41, CSAT score of 86.6%, and 87% expressing satisfaction. Power BI data showed participants engaged in an average of three workouts per week and read one to two articles weekly.
Focus groups supported quantitative findings, suggesting improvements like more motivational tips, app usage tutorials, clearer instructions for workout videos, expanded community activities, a reader tracker, enriched learning modules, and enhanced progression tracking.

Discussion and conclusion
The Mia app shows feasibility in usage, acceptability, demand, and practicality, prompting further impact assessments. Positive feedback highlights the need for user-tailored improvements before clinical trials. However, limitations include a non-representative, digitally literate sample, potential bias from self-reported PA measures, and lack of blinding. Future research should explore less tech-savvy older adults’ perceptions, gauging accessibility and appeal to a broader audience.
66 Facilitating Health in Schools: The Role of Implementers in the Generation Healthy Kids Program
Authors: Skovgaard Thomas , Nielsen Jonas Vestergaard 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Purpose
This study investigates the role of local implementation teams in Generation Healthy Kids (GHK), an ongoing multi-component, school-based intervention promoting healthy weight, health, and wellbeing among Danish children aged 6–11.

Methods
The study is one segment of a larger cluster-randomized trial assessing the GHK intervention’s effectiveness and implementation. Semi-structured interviews have been conducted with members of implementation teams, or implementation leads, at the twelve schools randomly assigned to intervention. Interviews were designed to delve into key implementation responsibilities and to identify key challenges and facilitators when promoting the four fundamental intervention components on: diet, physical activity, screen media use, and sleep habits.

Results
With data collection concluding in May 2024, preliminary analyses suggest that successful implementation hinges on securing adequate support and the right competencies among staff members interacting directly with the primary target group, tailoring the program to fit diverse school contexts, and ensuring effective internal and external coordination. Strategic promotion of the intervention among stakeholders is also anticipated to be a critical factor.

Conclusions
The anticipated findings will shed light on organizational and structural elements influencing the effectiveness of multi-layered, school-based health interventions. Implementers – meaning professional personnel at the forefront of execution - emerge as key figures for how well an innovation like GHK is developed and realized. The efficiency of this group is, however, contingent on adequate work infrastructures - including well-organized task arrangements, adequate staffing and support, proactive leadership by school principals, and clear role definitions. The insights gained from this study will inform the design and support of health promotion strategies in schools, with potential implications for policy and practice in child health and wellbeing.

Funding Source
The study is supported via funding from an overall GHK-grant provided by the Novo Nordisk Foundation.
77 How do we include low SES girls in sport? A qualitative study on girls’ perceived barriers to sports participation
Authors: Ljungmann Cecilie Karen , Christensen Julie Hellesøe , Johnsen Helene Rald , Klinker Charlotte , Pawlowski Charlotte 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Girls are more likely to drop out of sport during adolescence than boys, in particular girls from low SES neighbourhoods. It is important to listening to these girls to get knowledge to do inclusive actions to increase low SES girls in sport. However, no studies have investigated barriers to sports participation among girls from low SES neighbourhoods. The aim of the study was to investigate perceived barriers to sports participation among adolescent girls from low SES neighbourhoods.

Methods
Eleven focus groups were conducted in five low SES neighbourhoods in Denmark from July-October 2021, involving in total 44 adolescent girls from Grade 6-9 (aged 10-16 years) who were not engaged in organised sports. Ten girls had Danish ethnic origin. Thirty-four girls had other ethnic minority background (i.e., from Afghanistan, Iraq, Lebanon, Morocco, Palestine, Somalia, Syria, or Turkey). A thematic analysis was used to analyse the girls’ perceptions managed in NVivo 12.

Results
The girls prioritised homework, household duties, and socialising with friends over sports. Also, the girls refrained from participating in sport due to fear of not fitting in because of ethnic background and reluctance to participate alone. Moreover, feelings of inadequacy in sporting abilities, bodily discomfort, and negative body image were perceived as barriers. Finally, gender stereotypes, depicting sports as unsuitable for girls, along with negative attitudes from boys, further discouraged the girls’ engagement.

Conclusions
The findings illustrate that barriers to sports participation among this group of girls are complex and call for multifaceted actions to address the disparities such as offering programs that are more flexible may be fruitful to address these girls’ concerns about educational commitments. A less competitive environment with more emphasis on fun, enjoyment, and inclusion, may address the feeling of lacking sporting abilities. Also, peer-leaders or a buddy system may increase a sense of belonging. These findings will be useful in order to shed light on how interventions could be designed and implemented to include low SES girls in sports communities.

Support/Funding Source
The study was supported by the Novo Nordisk Foundation [grant number NNF20SH00].
104 Impact of a School-Based Physical Activity Intervention program on Physical Activity Levels, Sleep Patterns, Aerobic Fitness, and Motor Competence
Authors: Costa Júlio A , Vale Susana , Cordovil Rita , Rodrigues Luís P , Cardoso Vasco , Proença Rui , Costa Manuel , Neto Carlos , Brito João , Guilherme José , Seabra André 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Introduction
The “Super Quinas” project evaluated the effectiveness of an intervention program to improve PA, aerobic fitness, sleep, and motor competence on children in primary school.

Methods
This pilot project was conducted in 44 schools across the country (i.e., in Portugal), and involved over 1600 school-age children (6 to 10 years old). All 1600 children completed the MC assessment (MCA) in the PRE test in the 1st week and the POST test in the 12th week. Additionally, a sub-group of 38 children underwent more specific tests (i.e., PA, sleep, body composition and aerobic fitness) for a detailed analysis of the impact of this intervention project. The experimental group (n = 19) enrolled in a 12-week intervention program (one more extra-curricular activity class of 60 min per week) compared to the CG (n = 19), all aged 9–10 years. PA and sleep were measured by accelerometry, and aerobic fitness was measured by Children’s Yo-Yo test (YYIR1C) during the 1st week (PRE), the 6th week (DUR), and the 12th week (POST) of the intervention program. MC in PRE and POST intervention was also assessed by the MC Assessment (MCA) instrument. Heart rate (HR, assessed using HR monitors), and enjoyment level were recorded during all intervention program classes.

Results
Comparing the EG and CG in DUR and POST, the EG spent ∼18min and ∼34min more time in moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA) per day (p &lt; 0.001); had ∼44min and ∼203min less sedentary time per day (p &lt; 0.001); performed more 44 and 128m in YYIR1C compared to CG (p &lt; 0.001) and slept more 17 and 114min per night (p &lt; 0.001). In POST MC was significantly better (27%) in the EG compared to CG (p &lt; 0.001). The %HRmax during the extra-curricular classes ranged between 65 and 81% (i.e., light to moderate intensities), and the enjoyment between fun and great fun.

Conclusion
Our findings suggest that adding one more extra-curricular activity class of 60 min per week for 12 weeks effectively increased the levels of PA, aerobic fitness, sleep duration, and MC in children aged 9–10 years.
103 Implementation of a physical activity referral scheme in the German healthcare system: A qualitative analysis of implementation success
Authors: Klamroth Sarah , Lorenz Eva , Naber Inga , Mino Eriselda , Weissenfels Anja , Gelius Peter , Abu-Omar Karim , Geidl Wolfgang , Pfeifer Klaus 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Purpose
The BewegtVersorgt project is the first study to implement a physical activity referral scheme (PARS) in the German healthcare system. The PARS aims to increase physical activity (PA) levels among persons with non-communicable diseases and includes a brief PA advice by physicians and an individualized PA promotion by physical therapists or sports therapists (PARS group). In a pragmatic cluster-randomized controlled trial, the PARS group is compared to a group receiving PA advice only (PAA). Based on the RE-AIM framework, this qualitative study evaluates specific dimensions of implementation success of the PARS, all from health professionals’ perspective.

Methods
We conducted semi-structured interviews (n = 13) with physicians and medical assistants from eight (out of 17) medical practices and with five therapists (out of 14 therapy practices). Following the principles of intensity case sampling, the practices were purposefully selected based on the number of participants treated and dropped-out. The interview transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis, combining deductive and inductive category building.

Results
Most health professionals report that they would already address PA promotion in some way and see this as part of their job, but in different roles. The majority of interviewees believes that both intervention types (PARS, PAA) have added value for the participants but the individual approach in the PARS group was seen as more advantageous by physicians (adoption). While most of the physicians did not use techniques of motivational interviewing (MI) for PA advice, therapists largely delivered the individualized PA promotion as intended and integrated MI. Both, therapists and physicians faced barriers with integrating the process into everyday practice and during intervention delivery (implementation). Most interviewees advocate a sustainable implementation of the program, taking into account adjustments to the intervention concept as well as structural and system-related changes (maintenance).

Conclusions
Given the intervention adjustments and barriers faced with the implementation in routine care, implementation success was only partially achieved. These results, in combination with the evaluation of all dimensions of implementation success, will help to adapt the PARS to be more suitable for integration into the German healthcare system.

Funding Source
Funded by the German Federal Ministry of Health.
62 More than a kickaround: A health impact assessment, over a twelve-month period, of Football Cooperative: A Men’s Community-based Social Initiative of Physical Activity
Authors: Daly Steve , Carroll Paula , Egan Tom , Harrison Michael , Richardson Noel 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Purpose
It is well established that men suffer lower life expectancy and quality of life. Recognising the importance of gender-specific strategies in addressing men’s health, considerable evidence supports the notion that a substantial portion of male life expectancy and morbidity can be influenced by modifiable factors. Therefore, it is vital to create and expand impactful health interventions tailored for men, enhancing overall population health. This study evaluates the health impact of the participants in Football Cooperative (FC), a community-based physical activity and social initiative designed and used by men.

Methods
Outcomes were measured for participants at four time points (baseline, three, six and twelve months) using both objective and subjective measures. Anthropometric measures included: a) height (cm), b) weight (Kg) (from which, body mass index (BMI) was calculated (Kg/m2)) and c) waist circumference (WC). Aerobic fitness was assessed using the Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery test level 1. The self-reported data in the survey had a mix of demographic and psychological measures. These included, cardiovascular risk factors, UCLA loneliness scale and Rosenberg self-esteem scale.

Results
With a mean age of 38 years (SD ± 7 years) n = 107 participants provided data. The average BMI went from 27.2 at baseline (B) to 26.2 at twelve months (12M). Average weight, decreased 87.4kg (B) to 84.3kg (12M) and WC decreased by 4.5%, from 97.1cm (B) to 92.7 (12M). In the self-report survey there were improvements in mental health, at three months (3M) 50% of participants reported improvements, increasing to 95% at 12M. Likewise, improvements in Social Health at 33% (3M) increased to 72% (12M). Participants reported decreased alcohol consumption and increased fruit and vegetable consumption. There was an increase in injuries sustained from 48% (3M) to 66% (12M). Stratifying by attendance, low attendees had less benefit than high (23% low to 67% high in physical benefit).

Conclusion
The Football Cooperative initiative provided improvements in the health of the participants, which increased over time. It can be argued that engaging men in ongoing activity will benefit many health aspects over the lifetime.

Funding Source
This PhD has been funded by the South East Research Development Fund [WD SERD_2020_54_WSCH, €90,000].