bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Changes in per capita and aggregate apparent consumption of livestock-derived foods in Canada from 1960–2020
Authors: Arsenault J Nicole , Tyedmers Peter H , Dias Goretty M 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Food systems are a major driver of resource depletion and environmental degradation globally, with livestock-derived food production accounting for a disproportionate fraction of these impacts. At the same time, meat, eggs, and dairy products are important sources of protein, energy, and micronutrients in human diets. Higher rates of red and processed meat consumption has, however, also been linked to increased heath risks in high-income countries. Given the important role that livestock-derived foods play in both planetary and human health, it is important to understand patterns in their consumption and how these have changed over time. Here, we report and assess changes in Canadian apparent consumption of livestock-derived foods, as both mass of edible unprocessed products and total contained protein, between 1960 and 2020. We used Statistics Canada food availability data, as it is the closest available proxy for historical consumption data. The animal foods included are dairy, eggs, and chicken, turkey, pork, and beef meat, with results expressed in kilograms of boneless meat, shell-less eggs, and total milk solids per capita per year. Total national apparent livestock food consumption was also calculated, by multiplying annual per capita availability by national population, for each year included in this analysis. Results indicate that, over the last six decades, apparent per capita consumption of livestock-derived foods in Canada has remained surprisingly constant, peaking in the 1970s at 108 kg/person/year, and varying narrowly between 91–101 kg/person/year for the most recent 35 years. The composition of Canadians’ livestock-derived food intake, however, does appear to have changed markedly, with apparent consumption of beef declining since its zenith in the late 1970s, while the apparent consumption of chicken meat has grown rapidly. Substantial reductions in the consumption of livestock foods in Canada are required to stay within planetary boundaries.
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

Abstract
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

Abstract

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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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&lt;.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

Abstract

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&lt;.05) reduction in PA, self-efficacy, student autonomy, and family well-being among students in the intervention schools. Statistically significant (p&lt;.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&lt;.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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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 &lt; 0.001, Cohen’s D = 0.74), lower body strength (p &lt; 0.001, Cohen’s D = 0.32), functional mobility (p &lt; 0.001, Cohen’s D = 0.08), and self-rated health (p &lt; 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.