bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
78 Which Characteristics Explain Physical Activity Behaviour in Adults in the Netherlands: A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: van der Vegt Annemarie , Snoeker Barbara , Schurink-van ‘t Klooster Tessa 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Purpose
To properly align the physical activity (PA) government policy with the Dutch population, it is necessary to gain knowledge on which personal characteristics are associated with PA behaviour. Although this association was explored for each characteristic separately in previous research from the Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), the influence of several characteristics in one model has not been investigated. The current study aims to determine which of 15 selected characteristics explain PA behaviour of Dutch adults best, and gain additional knowledge about interactions between characteristics.

Methods
Data of the Dutch Health Survey/Lifestyle monitor (Statistics Netherlands (CBS) in collaboration with RIVM) from 2018-2022 was used. In total, 36,838 Dutch adults (age≥18) were included. Both univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted for three outcomes: adherence to Dutch PA guidelines, weekly sport participation, and weekly active transportation (walking/cycling to work/school). A selection of personal characteristics (9 demographic, 6 health-related) served as input for the regression analyses. Results of univariate and multivariable analyses were interpreted both separately and in comparison to each other.

Results
Univariate results show significance for all characteristics in all three outcomes, except for gender in weekly sport participation. Multivariable, being married, having psychological complaints and a higher income are no longer significant for adherence to PA guidelines and active transportation. Adults with a higher age, higher education, normal body mass index, perceived health marked ‘very good’, without physical impairments, who are living extremely urbanised and do not smoke show high odds for all three outcomes.

Conclusions
The current results provide new insights into which personal characteristics are important regarding PA behaviour of Dutch adults, regardless of other characteristics a person might have. However, the explained variance of the models was very low and only a small selection of relevant characteristics for PA behaviour was included. It is recommended to include additional information in the models (e.g., environmental and motivational factors) to further explain adult PA behaviour in The Netherlands, and to adapt PA policy accordingly.

Support/Funding Source
This research was funded by the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sports of the Netherlands.
186 Youth-Physical Activity Towards Health in Northern Ireland (Y-PATH NI) Study: Attitudes towards and experiences of physical activity and physical education
Authors: Carlin Angela , McClelland Julia , Gallagher Alison , Belton Sarahjane , O’Brien Wesley , Murphy Marie 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Approximately 20% of post-primary school pupils in Northern Ireland (NI) receive the recommended 120 minutes of physical education (PE) per week. A more detailed understanding of NI schoolchildren’s perceptions of context specific physical activity, the participation barriers they face in relation to PE, in addition to factors that support them to lead a physically active lifestyle is key in understanding how best to encourage physical activity participation in this population. The purpose of this study was to assess current physical activity levels and explore the attitudes and experiences of PE amongst adolescents in NI.

Methods
A mixed-methods approach was used. A cross-sectional online survey was completed by a sample of NI schoolchildren in Years 8-10 (n = 1541) in 2023. The survey consisted of validated scales and study specific items. Focus groups (n = 17) were conducted with pupils in Years 8-12. Descriptive statistics and chi-square analyses were used to compare differences across genders and year groups. Qualitative data were analysed using thematic analysis, data were summarised, and themes were generated.

Results
One-fifth of participants reported meeting the physical activity guidelines, with differences observed for gender (male = 31% vs female = 14%) and year group (Year 8 = 24% vs Year 10 = 17%). Males tended to report higher levels of enjoyment of PE than females. The main barriers to participation in PE identified through focus group discussions included getting changed to take part in PE and not enjoying some of the activities offered. Participants liked participating in PE with their peers, enjoyed learning new skills, and found PE teachers to be supportive. In terms of how to enhance provision of PE in schools, participants reported wanting more variety and to be given a choice of activities in their PE classes.

Conclusions
The findings from this study suggest that there are barriers to participation in PE classes. These findings will help policymakers and researchers develop interventions that will be effective in enhancing PE provision with post-primary schools and increasing physical activity levels amongst youth.

Support/Funding Source
This study is funded by Northern Ireland Chest Heart and Stroke.
27 FitBack4Literacy: Supporting Physical Literacy Journey with Physical Fitness Monitoring
Authors: Jurak Gregor 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

FitBack, a leading European network dedicated to promoting physical fitness monitoring, will present the main result of E+ funded FitBack4Literacy project which aims to demonstrate how to properly use fitness monitoring to improve physical literacy of children and youth.
Physical literacy includes the physical competence, motivation, confidence, knowledge and understanding that people develop to maintain physical activity at an appropriate, healthy level throughout their life. Most of physical literacy interventions are focusing on physical domain, which includes physical fitness and motor skills. On the other side inappropriate fitness testing environment can result in bad experience of students and therefore also emerging stigma against fitness testing. Therefore, FitBack4Literacy project addresses both of these issues providing recommendations and educational material how to use fitness monitoring (not just testing) to build on cognitive domain of physical literacy.
Namely, the goal of FitBack4Literacy is to design and test an open, transnational digital toolkit supported by multi-language FitBack platform (www.fitbackeurope.eu) to deliver relevant information about developing physical literacy with help of fitness monitoring to teachers, coaches and adolescents.
First, teachers were involved in a participatory process to upgrade the existing FitBack reporting system by class report and learning materials. Second, consortium partners developed educational materials. Third, these materials were transformed in digital toolkit to support teachers and coaches. Finally, the upgraded FitBack reporting system, including a novel, multi-lingual digital toolkit, will be evaluated across eight European-wide sites to determine its feasibility and effectiveness in improving physical literacy with support of fitness monitoring.
Digital toolkit is technically prepared in the way to support translation of subtitles of animated topics which allows good dissemination and expend potential of its use worldwide.
236 A pilot and evaluation of a dance intervention for young women following cancer treatment: Dance Exercise Intervention South East (The DEISE project)
Authors: Gooney Martina , Hunt Patricia , Matthews Evan , McDaid Tracy , O’Brien Michael , Sheehan Patricia 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Purpose
There is emergent and strong evidence for effectiveness of dance-based physical activity for young women post cancer treatment. However, there is a need for knowledge on such physical activity implementation in a community setting. The aim of this project was to design, pilot and evaluate a 10-week, community-based peer-supported dance programme for young women at least 6 weeks post treatment for primary lymphoma, leukemia or breast cancer diagnosis. This programme focused largely on aerobic physical activity, functional fitness and social connection through supervised dance.

Methods
In addition to quantitative indicators, qualitative descriptive research framed by the RE-AIM framework were used. Reflexive thematic analysis were used to analyse data collected in semi-structured interviews.

Results
A sample of N = 7 women with experience of cancer and N = 2 peers participated in the qualitative research evaluation. Four overarching themes were explored: 1. The complex influences on commencing the dance class programme, 2. Participants’ perspective on the personal impact of the dance classes, 3. Interpersonal connections through the dance classes; more than exercise, and 4. Meaningful components within the dance programme.

Conclusions
The findings highlighted the importance of addressing concerns about abilities to exercise, the impact of the social environment, developing confidence through the programme, and the perceived physical and mental health benefits. In the context of robust evidence on the health impacts of socially based physical activity for young women with experience of cancer, these findings offer implementation and feasibility knowledge for community based cancer support services.

Funding
This project is funded by the National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP).
221 Long-term maintenance of physical activity and its effect on outcomes for hip and knee osteoarthritis following the GLA:D® (Good Life with osteoArthritis Denmark) Ireland programme
Authors: Hempenstall Peter , Toomey Clodagh 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Purpose
In recent years, focus has shifted towards utilising physical activity (PA) for improvement with the management of hip and knee osteoarthritis (OA). The GLA:D® programme, comprises of two educational and 12 supervised exercise sessions for management of hip and knee OA. Increases of 110-120% on physical activity (PA) participation post-intervention have been observed by Skou & Roos (2017); elucidating the effect these programmes have in behaviour change. The type and intensity of PA that people with OA engage with after GLA:D however, is unknown. The aim of this study is to subjectively and objectively measure the long-term changes in PA and associations with patient outcomes following the GLA:D® programme.

Methods
A preliminary analysis using data from the GLA:D Ireland Registry was performed to evaluate the change in PA (UCLA activity scale) from baseline to post-programme and 12-months follow-up. An ANOVA to assess significant differences between all 3 time-points was carried out using IBM SPSS. A sub-cohort of participants will be followed at the same time-points using accelerometery devices and a questionnaire on activity type. The relationship between change in PA and patient outcomes (pain and QOL) will be examined.

Results
In 16 GLA:D participants with data at all time-points, an increase of 7.2% in UCLA PA levels was observed from baseline (µ=5.13 ± 1.63) to post-programme (µ=5.5 ± 1.67) and decreased by 1.1% at 12-months (µ=5.44 ± 1.86). Participants with Low UCLA levels (1-4) saw the greatest increase with 50% of participants increasing to Moderate (5-6) or High (7-10) PA post-programme. Future analyses: using subjective and objective measurements will show whether these results are replicated and how this influences patient outcomes; allowing for a thorough understanding of PA engagement.

Conclusion
Although marginal clinical improvements in PA are observed after GLA:D in Ireland, the promotion and sustainability of PA following a supervised programme needs to be addressed to maximise long-term behaviour change for hip and knee OA. Results will be used to design pragmatic interventions to facilitate viable pathways to community-exercise and PA for long-term OA self-management.

Funding
Health Research Board (EIA-2019-008) IMPACT - IMPlementation of osteoArthritis Clinical guidelines Together.
75 Moving Together: Exploring Peer Relationships through Creative Dance in First Grade
Authors: Giatra Angeliki , Koutsouba Maria , Stavrou Nektarios , Venetsanou Fotini 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Purpose
This study aimed to examine the effect of a creative dance (CD) program on first graders’ relationships with their peers. Peer relationships are an important component of a child’s self-concept, contributing positively to an emotionally supportive classroom climate, school adjustment, and the learning process. Additionally, they play a key role in a child’s socio-emotional health, particularly at transitional stages, such as entering primary school. CD is used as an educational tool to develop social-emotional skills and psychological well-being; however, no study has so far focused on its effects on the interpersonal relationships of first graders. This study will provide insight into how CD affects peer relationships at this developmental stage.

Method
A total of 71 first-grade students participated and were randomly assigned to the intervention group (IG, n = 36) and the control group (CG, n = 35). The IG participated in a nine-week CD program conducted during the physical education (PE) classes, while the CG followed the national PE curriculum. The peer relationships subscale of the Pictorial Scale of Perceived Ability and Social Acceptance, Greek version, was administered to all participants through individual interviews, before and after the intervention; qualitative data were collected for IG through lesson observations by teachers (PE and classroom teacher), and whole class discussions.

Results
The (gender*group) analysis of covariance applied to children’s post-test scores (covariate: baseline scores) showed significant differences between groups (F = 8.395, p&lt; .005, η2=.11), with IG outperforming CG. Qualitative data revealed that CD helped children discover communication and cooperation strategies. The development of these skills led to a decrease in competitiveness and confrontation among peers. Whole-class discussions provided information about children’s perceptions of concepts such as cooperation, and respect for others and allowed them to become aware of their shared needs and expectations, and to reflect on their behavior, strengthening their friendship bonds.

Conclusion
It can be concluded that CD cultivates first graders’ social-emotional skills related to peer relationships, and it affects their relationships positively. Based on the above, CD is proposed as an educational tool that can enhance children’s friendship bonds and reduce antisocial or aggressive behaviors that appear to be in raise nowadays.
72 The role of conservation projects for health enhancing physical activity (HEPA): holistic benefits for volunteers whilst enhancing environmental biodiversity - a blue space case study
Authors: Crone Diane , Bashir Faaiza , Sumner Rachel C , Szekeres Zsofia 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Purpose
This qualitative study explored how engagement activities at a community reservoir in Cardiff, Wales supported the health and wellbeing of the local community, improved access to green and blue spaces, and enhanced the biodiversity of the environment. There were two specific aims; to capture the lived experiences of volunteers involved in the preservation of the reservoir for over 15 years, and; to understand the experiences, motivations, and outcomes of volunteers taking part in community-based conservation activities at the site from 2021. The research is innovative because it captured the experiences of participants (volunteers) who had been involved in the ‘saving of the site’, and volunteers involved in enhancing the site as a community asset during the last 4 years. It therefore captures experiences from nearly two decades of voluntary action in local nature conservation from volunteering perspectives.

Methods
Data were collected through interviews and focus groups from a total of 12 participants (six participants involved in the preservation of the site, and six from the current volunteer base). Data were collected during the summer of 2023 and analysed using thematic analysis (Braun and Clarke, 2019). Analysis provided key findings (themes) linked to the aims detailed above.

Results
Findings from the two sets of volunteers highlighted the following themes: (i) value of nature for health, wellbeing and spirituality; (ii) motivation to taking part in volunteering to support the environment and for self-confidence and a sense of purpose; (iii) health enhancing physical activity opportunities; and (iv) the provision for getting outdoors for activity, fresh air and tranquillity.

Conclusions
Findings highlight the potential of such projects for health enhancing physical activity and the importance of them for holistic mental, social and environmental health benefits for both individuals, and the physical environment. Findings confirm the many ecological, health and wellbeing benefits for both volunteers and the environment from conservation community projects. The holistic benefits of such programmes should be acknowledged, highlighted, and promoted to support both volunteers’ health and to support the current environmental challenges faced in local communities.
S01 A Systems-based Approach to Physical Activity in Scotland
Authors: Murphy Marie 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

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

Description
Systems-based approaches are increasingly used to respond to complex public health issues such as physical inactivity. Public Health Scotland (PHS) developed an evidence-driven, yet pragmatic process, to enable policy makers and practitioners to implement a systems-based approach to Physical Activity (PA) in Scotland.
The process was informed by and adapted from systems-based thinking underpinning public health reform in Scotland and a whole system approach to obesity in England and draws on methodologies familiar to policymakers and practitioners such as the quality improvement and outcome focused planning.
PHS drew on existing evidence and learning to translate the scientific evidence of what works to increase population levels of PA into a Scottish context. This informed the development of eight strategic delivery outcomes and a logic model, accompanied by a 5-stage process used to inform national and local collaborative strategic actions.
Nationally, adopted by Scottish Government and partners to guide the development of a cross-policy Physical Activity for Health Strategy for Scotland and to update the Active Scotland Outcomes Framework, indicators and target.
Locally, PHS and sportscotland (the national agency for sport) work collaboratively with local authorities and their community planning partners to apply the approach to inform local Physical Activity Strategies and Action Plans. Increasing the breadth of policy partners involved; local government, transport, planning, education, health, social care and sport and leisure, reflecting a system wide approach to PA.
Implementation is monitored via governance structures, national surveillance indicators, process indicators and an ongoing cycle of quality improvement and policy review.
Transferable across national and local government this approach has positively impacted on the development of national and local evidence-based PA policy, enabling partners to maximise existing resources, whilst contributing to PA outcomes and their respective policy outcomes.
S01-2: Developing a systems-based national physical activity strategy for Scotland
Authors: Love Jennifer 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Purpose
To share learning from the application of a pragmatic, evidence-driven, systems-based approach to physical activity policy in Scotland from a Scottish Government perspective.

Development
Scottish Government recognise the need for a systems-based approach to address physical inactivity. GAPPA and the ISPAH 8 investments provide a strong basis for global action but it was essential that we translate these recommendations into our national context. Our public health agency, Public Health Scotland (PHS) undertook this task and provided a framework on which to build a national strategy.

Implementation and dissemination
The development of our new strategy was overseen by a National Leadership Group, chaired by our Minister for Sport included senior leaders from national delivery agencies in transport, education, health, environment and sport, with representation from local authorities and Scotland’s Chief Medical Officer. The purpose of the group is to foster partnership working between agencies and to achieve commitment at both national and local level to improving levels of physical activity in Scotland.

Evaluation
We evaluate the impact of our policies through indicators linked to our delivery outcomes. Data are largely derived from two annual national surveys: The Scottish Health Survey and the Scottish Household Survey

Conclusions and practical implications
Adoption of a systems-based approach derived from international evidence and best practice gives us confidence that our new strategy represents the best approach to improving levels of physical activity in Scotland.
The systems-based approach highlights the importance of achieving commitment across Ministerial portfolios to achieving our outcomes. This can be challenging and having a lead Minister who is personally enthusiastic and focussed on the importance of addressing physical inactivity has been crucial.
Both nationally and locally, Scotland invests significantly in physical activity. The importance of the systems-based approach is that it provides us with a conceptual framework which allows us to better co-ordinate and target existing funding across portfolios to focus on evidence-based action which will deliver our outcomes.