bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Nutrition Screening Tools in Pediatric Oncology: A Systematic Review
Authors: Farlina Mutia , Mansur Arif Rohman , Sari Ira Mulya , Herien Yelly , Deswita  , Neherta Meri , Sukma Nadila Permata
Published: July 2024

Introduction: The global prevalence of children with cancer continues to increase, reaching 186.6 per 1 million children aged 0-19 years. Children with cancer face challenges in fulfilling nutrition due to increased energy needs due to disease and treatment side effects. Nutritional assessment using nutrition screening tools is currently highly variable and varies across health institutions. This study aims to critically describe the assessment of nutritional screening tools in ensuring suitability and sensitivity as well as advantages and disadvantages in identifying the nutritional needs of children with cancer. Methods: PRISMA was used as a guide in preparing a systematic literature review based on inclusion criteria to determine research articles, search strategies, and research findings. Databases used in this study included Pubmed and Science Direct. Results: The use of appropriate nutrition screening tools is essential for assessing the nutritional status of pediatric patients with cancer. Appropriate nutrition screening tools have a positive impact on the nutritional fulfillment of children with cancer. There are five different nutrition screening tools in assessing the sensitivity of nutrition screening tools in children with cancer and their advantages and disadvantages. The sensitivity of the Screening Tool for Childhood Cancer (SCAN) and the Pediatric Yorkhill Malnutrition Score (PYMS) was highly accurate in correctly identifying children with cancer at risk of malnutrition. Conclusions: This finding is expected to be a recommendation for health workers in choosing the right nutrition screening tool to monitor the nutritional status of pediatric patients with cancer during treatment.
Progressive Muscle Relaxation Reduces Blood Pressure in Older Adults with Hypertension
Authors: Anggraini Ria , Poppy Farasari  , Triana Maharani
Published: July 2024

Introduction: The physiological aging process in older adults may lead to various disturbances in the cardiovascular system, including hypertension. One approach to controlling blood pressure is through progressive muscle relaxation therapy. This study aimed to investigate the effect of progressive muscle relaxation on blood pressure in older adults with hypertension at the Social Service Unit for Older Adults in Blitar and Nursing Home in Tulungagung in 2023. Methods: This study employed a quasi-experimental method with a one-group pre-post test design. The population consisted of all older adults with hypertension at the research site in 2023, totaling 80 individuals. Purposive sampling was used to recruit the samples of 39 participants. Observation sheets and a sphygmomanometer were utilized for data collection. Result: The results showed that before receiving progressive muscle relaxation therapy, most participants had stage-1 hypertension, with 23 participants (59%), and stage-2 hypertension, with 16 participants (41%). After the therapy, the majority of participants were included in the stage-1 hypertension category, with 26 participants (67%), and prehypertension, with 5 participants (13%). The Wilcoxon test showed a significant value of ρ = 0.000 < α = (0.05), indicating the effect of progressive muscle relaxation therapy on blood pressure. This means that regular therapy sessions may lead to better blood pressure control in hypertensive patients. Conclusion: Progressive muscle relaxation therapy can increase endorphin hormone production and reduce stress levels, thereby stabilizing blood pressure.
A Correlational Study of Student Factors and Performance in CPA Board Examination: a case in JRMSU
Authors: Maghinay Leonila C.
Published: July 2024

This paper proposes to identify the necessary interventions to enhance graduates’ performance in the Certified Public Accountant Licensure Examination. It aimed to examine the relationship between identified student factors and the inconsistency in graduates' performance in the CPA board exams from 2016 to 2019. The study is based on Walberg's theory of academic achievement, which asserts that the psychological characteristics of students and their immediate environments affect educational outcomes. A descriptive research design was utilized, surveying 28 Bachelor of Science in Accountancy graduates who took the CPA board exam using a standardized checklist. Qualitative data, serving as secondary data, were analyzed through documentary analysis. Additionally, in-depth structured interviews were conducted to support the quantitative data. Results indicated that among student-related factors, only study habits significantly impacted graduates' performance in the CPA board exam. Other factors, such as academic performance, aspiration, and attitude towards accounting, were found to be insignificant. The study advocates for time management, comprehensive self-management, development of analytical skills, and maintaining a consistent desire to pass the CPA board exam and become an accountant. Future research is also recommended.
Comparative Analysis of a State University's Physical Plant and Facilities: Internal vs External Evaluations
Authors: Gomez Abigail C. , De Grano Ruby-Lyn T. , Valdez Luningning A. , Gomez Anabella C.
Published: July 2024

In the landscape of higher education in the Philippines, institutions are subject to rigorous evaluations by accrediting bodies to ensure quality and adherence to standards. This study delves into the assessment of the physical plant and facilities of a state university, utilizing evaluations from both the university’s Internal Assessment Board (IAB) and the Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP) considered in this study as External Accrediting Body (EAB). Through a quantitative, comparative, and descriptive research design, document analysis was conducted on the ratings provided by the IAB and EAB across various parameters. The research instrument utilized was the AACCUP Accrediting Instrument, focusing on areas such as campus infrastructure, buildings, classrooms, and other essential facilities. Data were collected from the Institutional Development Office, encompassing two visits or evaluations across six academic programs. Statistical analysis such as mean, Mann-Whitney U Test, and one- way analysis of variance (ANOVA) were employed to identify differences between the ratings of the IAB and EAB.
Remarkably, no significant differences were found in the evaluation of campus infrastructure, offices, staff, and function rooms, assembly and athletic facilities, medical and dental clinic, and food services unit/canteen. To wit, there is no significant difference between the two separate visits of the IAB [F(8,9) = .963, p = .516, not significant], no significant difference between the two separate visits of the EAB [F(8,9) = .238, p = .972, not significant], and no significant difference between the evaluation of the IAB and the EAB [Z= -1.549, p= .121, not significant]. The research findings highlight the importance of continuous improvement and transparency in assessing and enhancing education quality and facilities.
Parental Involvement in Curricular Performance of Students at Risk
Authors: Dungca Jasley L. , Agbayani Gabriel Yvonne , Muñoz Avril Laine G. , Carreon Brian Mikko D. , Antonio Faye D. , Tiqui Jenna Anne S. , Castro Aikee M. , Galang John Renus F.
Published: July 2024

Parental involvement plays an important role in the academic performance of at-risk learners facing educational challenges. However, many parents struggle to contribute effectively due to various challenges, such as limited educational backgrounds, busy schedules, and personal commitments. This study aims to describe the parental involvement in the academic performance of at-risk learners, specifically focusing on involvement, success, and support within the school. This study uses a Mixed-methods sequential explanatory design. The study involves quantitative analysis supplemented by qualitative insights obtained through standardized questionnaires and interviews. Purposive sampling was employed to select 50 parents as respondents, while 8 participants were chosen using a homogeneous sampling technique to represent outliers. Results indicate that active parental involvement positively improves academic outcomes, including behavior, attendance, and grades. Conversely, learners with less engaged parents tend to show limited progress in their academic performance. Lack of financial resources poses significant challenges, but scholarships lessen burdens, ensuring access to education for all. This study underscores the importance of parental support beyond academics, creating helpful learning environments, and fostering strong development. Understanding parental challenges can enhance strategies to improve learners’ behavior and academic performance. Overall, parental involvement is an important factor in promoting academic success and preparing learners for future opportunities.
School Heads' Leadership Practices and Administrative Psychological Attributes an the Post-Pandemic Readiness of San Pablo City Public Elementary Schools
Authors: Ofrin Darius D.
Published: July 2024

School Leaders in the Philippines are confronted with unexpectedly high levels of hardship.  The school leaders function is expansive in scope, extremely demanding, and time-sensitive (Riley 2015). Individual psychological traits are distinct aspects of a person that shape their actions and mindset. These traits encompass one's personality, temperament, cognitive abilities, and emotional conditions. Being prepared for school is crucial as it enables teachers to enhance and build upon a child’s abilities, particularly in social interactions. However, today's challenge to achieving school readiness stems from the disruptions caused by the pandemic.
This research aims to determine whether public schools in San Pablo City are equipped to handle post-pandemic classes, focusing on factors such as the adequacy of instructional materials, quality of governance and leadership, efficiency of school operations, effectiveness of teacher performance, student engagement, and the level of parental involvement.

vii

This study is anchored on Distributed leadership by Edwin Hutchins, Hutchins’ theory, a conceptual and analytical approach how the work of leadership takes place distributed leadership is basically shared management and Goal setting theory for Leadership practices which  state that for goals to be motivational, they have to be specific and challenging but yet attainable (Locke and Latham, 1990, 2002).
The research revealed a strong connection between the leadership practices of school administrators and the school’s preparedness in various areas. These areas include establishing clear goals and expectations, allocating resources to meet these objectives, fostering high-quality teaching, promoting professional development for teachers, and maintaining a secure and organized learning environment.  The study brought out that the public schools in San Pablo City elementary are prepared for the post pandemic classes in terms of instructional adequacy,  leadership and governance , school operation, teacher performance, learners interest, and parental support. Ultimately, the study identified that the leadership practices and psychological administrative traits of school heads are key indicators of how prepared public schools in the San Pablo City Division are for the "new normal" during the 2022-2023 school year.
The participants in this study will include both elementary school principals and teachers from the San Pablo City Division. The elementary schools are composed of 7 district with a total School heads and  teachers  population of seventy-three  (385).  To collect the data, the researcher primarily used a self-designed online survey questionnaire.
Understanding Mathematically Talented Male Learners’ Perception of Teaching Mathematics as a Profession: A Path Analysis
Authors: Calibara Kim Jann A. , Belarga Alona M.
Published: July 2024

ABSTRACT
 
This descriptive-correlational research aimed to examine the predictive and mediational role of parental support, classroom environment, value, attitude, and anxiety in the perception towards teaching mathematics as a profession of mathematically talented male senior high school learners. One hundred eighteen learners from purposively selected public and private schools in Iloilo City and in the districts of the province of Iloilo participated in the study. Six adapted instruments were used to gather data, which underwent content validation and reliability testing. Means, frequency, standard deviations, Pearson’s product-moment correlations, Multiple Linear Regression and Path Analysis, were the statistical tools used. Results revealed that mathematically talented male learners have moderate parental support, a positive classroom environment, a very useful value of mathematics, a strongly positive attitude, low anxiety, and a moderately high perception towards teaching mathematics. When classified according to parental support, learners who received moderate and high parental support outscored learners with low parental support in their attitude towards mathematics and perception towards teaching mathematics. Also, learners in the positive group outperformed learners in the slightly positive group in their attitude towards mathematics when classified according to the classroom environment. Parental support, value, and attitude can directly predict the perception towards teaching mathematics, but not classroom environment and anxiety. Moreover, parental support, value and attitude were partially mediated while classroom environment was completely mediated on the influence the perception towards teaching Mathematics by the other constructs included in the model. Furthermore, the classroom environment influences the perception towards teaching mathematics. Parental support has the highest contribution in predicting the perception towards teaching mathematics. In conclusion, these findings indicated that parental support has the biggest attribution in predicting mathematically talented male learners’ perceptions towards teaching mathematics.
An Achievement Test in Mathematics in the Modern World Course: The Standardization Process
Authors: Baybayan Jericho Y. , Lacia Michelle R.
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to construct and standardize an achievement test in Mathematics in the Modern World (MMW) course. Achievement test evaluates a student’s performance after a given period of instruction. Using the instrumentation research design, the data were gathered among 273 tertiary students of Notre Dame University enrolled during the second semester of Academic Year 2020-2021. Among these, 38 pilot tested and 213 tested the reliability of the instrument. This study further utilized the following: a 4-point Likert scale for the validation of the instrument, difficulty value and discrimination index formulas for the analysis of each item, and KR20 reliability for internal consistency. Furthermore, a test manual for the MMW achievement test was also established. The preliminary total number of Items before MMW teachers’ validation was 42 items covering the topics for the first 12 hours of the MMW Syllabus. These items were validated through Aiken’s Item Validity method which resulted in the acceptance of 42 items. After rigorous processes, it resulted in the acceptance of 34 items for the MMW achievement test. The instrument’s average validity is 0.935, and the reliability is 0.701 which means that this tool has high validity and acceptable reliability.
Practices and Perspectives in Using Vlogs as Speaking Performance Assessment: A Proposed Assessment Tool
Authors: Manuel Mac Jerome M.
Published: July 2024

In the twenty-first century, the use of technology in the teaching process has become increasingly crucial. A rising trend in language assessment comes in the form of vlogs. Its proliferation in language assessment can serve many advantages and benefits. However, a misguided assessment strategy can undermine the teaching-learning process. Also, learners often feel that vlogging assessments need to be revised because the focus is on the vlogging skills and media quality. Hence, the study aimed to identify the practices and perspectives of language teachers, academic heads, and language learners in using vlogs as a speaking performance assessment. A qualitative design was employed to collect a rich and detailed understanding of the focus of the study. The informants were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected through essay questionnaires, focus-group discussions, and semi-structured interviews. The findings revealed that using vlogs in language assessment offers a versatile and practical approach for formative and summative purposes. Administering vlogging tasks requires weighing the advantages and challenges associated with each approach. Vlog types, such as personal vlogs, opinion vlogs, and interview vlogs, are ideal for enhancing learners' speaking skills. Furthermore, the pedagogical considerations of language teachers in utilizing vlogs include alignment, sufficient time and support, access to necessary technological resources, learner flexibility, support to struggling learners, clear and comprehensible instructions, and equity for all learners. There is a consensus on the significance of content, creativity, presentation, proficiency, fluency, and technical quality as criteria in vlog assessment.
e-TuroMo: A Valuable Virtual Community Service Project for Schools Amid COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Chua Christopher , Chua Antonette
Published: July 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced schools to adopt online teaching and other alternative delivery modes of education. Since this is an unforeseen happening, most learning institutions are not ready for this transition. This gives birth to a virtual community service project named “e-TuroMo.” In this paper, we describe the e-TuroMo project and assess its relevance. An open-ended questionnaire was distributed to gather feedback from the respondents. The project aims primarily to help schools as they try to shift from traditional classes to online teaching. It offers free services such as webinars for teachers, a course creator account on the e-TuroMo Moodle site, consultation, and technical assistance in establishing a Learning Management System (LMS). Through this project, 51 respondents have created initial online courses as an output of the webinars. Consultation sessions on online course design, delivery, and assessment were provided to some respondents. Two schools availed of technical assistance in the setup of their LMS. The respondents acknowledged the services offered by the project as timely, relevant, and valuable to their work as teachers. Overall, the results showed high admiration and approval for the project. Cost-effective software, efficient structuring of webinars based on literature, and a stable internet connection for both the organizer and participants are deemed essential when implementing a virtual community service project similar to this case.
Conflict Management Practices of Customs Broker Practitioner: A Comparative Approach
Authors: Doyo Joan R. , Dante, Jr Julian M. , Gutierrez Ernell Bautista , De Vera Rommel C.
Published: July 2024

Conflict is inevitable in all organizations as well as in all professions and with proper management its negative effect can always be mitigated. This research utilized a descriptive-comparative approach and determined the extent of conflict management practices in customs brokerage from one hundred eighty professional brokers. Results revealed that customs brokers highly practiced the following conflict management: Competing, Collaborating, Compromising, Avoiding, and Accommodating. Likewise, results further revealed that there is no difference in the extent of practices of conflict management by customs brokers when industry, years in practice, and age are considered.
Exploring Students' Perceptions and Influences in Teaching Translation Through Qualitative and Quantitative Standards
Authors: Merahi Abdelkrim , Makhlouf Abdelkader , Tamimi Yasser
Published: July 2024

The present study addresses the multifaceted aspects of teaching translation by investigating students' perceptions and influences, considering both qualitative and quantitative standards. It explores the contributions of these standards to the translation teaching process and evaluates the predictive capability of quantitative standards. Focusing on 183 male and female students from Saida and El-Bayah Universities, the study used a questionnaire to collect data and statistical analysis using SPSS techniques. The findings showed a positive correlation between students' perceptions of teaching translation and both qualitative and quantitative standards. Furthermore, these standards were found to make significant contributions to teaching translation, indicating that teaching translation may be predicted using quantitative criteria. The study offers insightful information that can be used for enhancing translation programs, creating engaging learning environments, and improving teacher training in diverse educational contexts.
The Rigidity of Public Space for Children's Use (Play): Case of: The First November Square - Batna Province (Algeria)
Authors: Guettafi Lamisse , Alkama Djamel , Barrou Djemaa
Published: July 2024

The presence of children in public spaces has become a trigging reality to consider, because children use these spaces to play without taking into account their suitability for such activity.
This article tackles children's use of the public square as a play space in Batna Province, Algeria. We adopted a mixed methodology that combines qualitative and quantitative elements to study the use and quality of a space used by children. The qualitative component allows us to explore human interactions and the environment, while the spatial analysis gives us an understanding of the physical layout of the context. The quantitative component aims to evaluate the opinions and preferences of children’s carers.
To carry out this study, we conducted a field investigation, including direct observation on the site and interviews with children's carers in the square to find out their assessment and opinions on the quality of the space and its use. Moreover, an analytical study of the square plan was also implemented at the spatial and functional level, in order to reveal all the changes in space before and after use by children.
The results of the study confirmed the lack of ease and flexibility of this space for use by children, and the results of the interview emphases the achieved findings, because the public space did not take the child as a user of it at all, neither in terms of space, nor planning and equipment, which led to falling into excessive use of it that resulted in lots of problems.
Juergen's Model Approach to the Manufacturing Process for Th(3.77xz+DSr(1.77yz)) Nano Materials at 688.12 MHz per Tesla in a French CERN Cyclotron for Formation of a New Nuclear Fuels 1.09 TeV
Authors: Moh. Hardiyanto  , Ermawati Imas Ratna , Nathalia Gabiola Ganotti
Published: July 2024

Continuous experiments carried out by the International Research Team in the Nano Materials Manufacturing Division which is a sub research of the ALICE Project were carried out at the Betha Group CERN, Lyon, France, an experimental project, one of which aims to determine the type and durability of nuclear nano materials based on Thorium Differentiation Hybrid Matrix based on nuclear hybrid Th (3.77) pairwise sub atomic Muon-Hadron particles with respect to the longitudinal angle function (xz) Deuterium Srontium (DSr) multi group tensoris (1.77yz) for an experimental series in a 687.12 MHz per tesla powering on Super-Gyro Magnetic field, in a series of super magnetic panels of the CERN Cyclotron coil in France with a quantum plasmatic frequency ranging from 901.44 MeV to 1.09 TeV with an azimuth angle range of 31.58 degrees cosine factor and 42.11 degrees tangential vectoric factor. The type of nano material that has undergone a series of verification tests based on the Juergen’s Model at its quantum polarization of 314.55 tesla per currie succeeded in producing the type Th(3.77xz+DSr(1.77yz)) with the breakthrough effect of Kaon atomic sub particles through the Josephson approximation. The multi level quantum plasmatic graduation has succeeded in achieving a sub atomic Electrical Conductivity (EC) value of 1.089 currie per MHz, so that it can be continued as the basis for the formation of new nuclear fuels with a power of 1.09 TeV at various angles of the CERN Cyclotron, in particular 39.72 degrees tensoris per MHz per azimuth.
Abstract 100: Omics Strategies To Identify Senescent Cells Mediating Extracellular Matrix Remodeling During Vascular Disease
Authors: Herman Allison B , Mazan-Mamczarz Krystyna , Tsitsipatis Dimitrios , Childs Bennett , Baker Darren J , Rocha Dos Santos Carla , Fedorova Olga , Gorospe Myriam
Published: July 2024

The accumulation of senescent cells, a hallmark phenotype of aging tissues, elevates the risk of cardiovascular disease with age. Our prior studies have illustrated a crucial role played by senescent cells in promoting coagulation during murine atherosclerosis through the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). To explore the heterogeneity of senescent vascular cells in thrombotic vascular diseases and identify potential druggable pathways to counter senescence, we utilized the senescence reporter mouse p16TdTomato+/-, which was injected with an adeno-associated virus expressing Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin type 9 to induce atherosclerosis when subjected to a high-fat diet (HFD). In a subset of HFD mice, some were left untreated, while others were treated with senolytic drug ABT-737 to selectively eliminate senescent cells. Aortas from ABT-737-treated mice exhibited increased collagen deposition and reduced arterial stiffness. Paired with pseudo-bulk RNA-sequencing analysis, we observed that HFD-induced extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling genes were diminished by ABT-737, suggesting that ECM-platelet interactions may be influenced by senescence. Single-cell RNA-sequencing analysis from aortas identified 28 distinct cell clusters. Utilizing Gene Set Enrichment Analysis with the SenMayo and CellAge panels, we identified four cell clusters exhibiting increased senescent features that were mitigated by ABT-737. These included two VSMC clusters, fibroblasts, and neutrophil-like cells. Unbiased subclustering of potentially senescent clusters revealed a small population of cells enriched with HFD and reduced by ABT-737, confirming their senescent nature. In the most abundant cluster,
Spp1
and
Serpine2
strongly represented the senescent VSMC subpopulation, enriched for TGFβ signaling, ECM remodeling, and coagulation cascade genes. Further, we validated these findings through spatial transcriptomics and single-molecule FISH of brachiocephalic arteries from atherosclerotic mice and atherosclerotic mice depleted of senescent cells. Our results reveal a novel transcriptomic signature for senescent vascular cells that holds potential for therapeutic targeting in age-related vascular diseases.
Abstract 1002: Health Insurance Prevalence & Aortic Aneurysm And Dissection Mortality: A Cross-sectional Analysis
Authors: Assaf Muaz N , Assaf Sohiub N , Assaf Abdallah N
Published: July 2024

The prevalence of health insurance significantly influences the early detection and timely treatment of cardiovascular conditions, which are vital for reducing the risk of morbidity and mortality. In many regions, access to necessary cardiac care, including life-saving interventions and long-term management, hinges on the availability and scope of health insurance.

Do disparities in mortality exist in aortic dissection/aneurysm based on the prevalence of health insurance in the USA?

We investigated the association between US county-level healthcare coverage prevalence and aortic dissection/aneurysm mortality rates.

We queried the CDC Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry to obtain data on the uninsured population, based on 5-year estimates from 2018. To gauge the uninsured population in each US-county, we computed percentile rankings from 0 to 1, with higher values indicating a larger uninsured population. Counties were grouped into 4 quartiles based on these rankings. Mortality data from 1999-2018 was obtained from the CDC WONDER database, using ICD-10 codes: I71 for aortic aneurysm and dissection as the underlying cause of death. Age-adjusted mortality rates (AAMRs) per 100,000 population were calculated using the direct method. Risk ratios (RR) were estimated using univariable Poisson regression.

The cumulative AAMR within UP-Q1 and UP-Q4 showed no significant differences in mortality and had a corresponding risk ratio (RR) of 0.94 (P >0.05). Among male populations, there was no difference in AAMR between UP-Q4 (AAMR: 5.48 [95% CI, 5.29 - 5.68]) and UP-Q1 (AAMR: 5.77 [95% CI, 5.64 - 5.90]), with a risk ratio of 0.95 (P >0.05). Similarly, among female populations, AAMR in UP-Q4 (AAMR: 2.66 [95% CI, 2.54-2.79]) was similar to UP-Q1 (AAMR: 2.98 [95% CI, 2.91-3.06]) with a risk ratio of 0.89 (P >0.05). Finally, when comparing UP-Q4 with UP-Q1 across all US-census regions and counties using urbanization criteria, no statistically significant differences were found.

This study found that in the US, county-level healthcare coverage prevalence didn't impact aortic dissection/aneurysm mortality rates, unlike in other diseases. Therefore, while lack of coverage hinders care access, it's not the sole social determinant of mortality outcomes.
Abstract 1005: Hypertriglyceridemia Promotes Aortic Aneurysm Formation And Rupture In Angiotensin Ii Infused Mice
Authors: Cai Lei , Li Bowen , Wu Qinglin , Connelly Margery A , Goldberg Ira J , Daugherty Alan , Lu Hong S , Temel Ryan E
Published: July 2024

Plasma total cholesterol (TC) and triglyceride (TG) are reported to be positively associated with the risk of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). Our group discovered that hypercholesterolemia augments angiotensin II-induced AAA in mice. We also found that remnants of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins (TRLs) may be crucial for AngII-induced AAA. Recently, it was reported that hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) caused by inducible lipoprotein lipase deficiency (iLpl-/-) results in uptake and accumulation of TRL lipid in aortic endothelial cells in vivo. Based upon these findings, we hypothesized that HTG stimulates AAA formation.

Methods:
Adult male and female Lplf/f.beta-actin-Mer/Cre/Mer 1/0 and Lplf/f mice were administered 75 mg/kg/day tamoxifen for 5 consecutive days. Mice were fed either a standard diet (SD) throughout the study or a Western-type diet (WD) starting 1 wk after the completion of tamoxifen administration and continuing for a total of 5 wks. Mini osmotic pumps were implanted in mice 2 wks after completion of tamoxifen administration and delivered saline or AngII at 1,000 ng/kg/min for 4 wks.

Results:
AngII infused and SD fed iLpl-/- versus Lplf/f mice had elevated plasma TG and TC levels but similar abdominal aortic external diameter and AAA incidence. Since the SD was low in fat, a high fat WD was then fed to AngII-infused mice. Plasma TG and TC were increased in female iLpl-/- versus Lplf/f mice. However, plasma lipid concentrations could not be measured in male iLpl-/- because 10 of 11 animals had died from aortic rupture. In contrast, none of the male Lplf/f mice died and only 4 of 11 had abdominal aortic dilation. Female compared to male iLpl-/- mice were protected from AngII-induced aortic rupture (1/11 died) and only 1 of 9 females had abdominal aortic dilation. To eliminate the possibility that HTG alone caused aortic rupture in male mice, the study was repeated with the addition of saline infusion. In agreement with the first study, AngII plus WD lead to death by aortic rupture in all male iLpl-/- mice (9/9). In contrast, iLpl-/- male mice infused with saline had markedly greater survival (1/5 died of unknown cause).

Conclusions:
HTG causes aortic aneurysm development in AngII-infused male iLpl-/- mice. Thus, treating HTG could reduce AAA risk.
Abstract 1013: Intense Impact Of Interleukin 1B Expressing Inflammatory Macrophages In Acute Aortic Dissection
Authors: Inoue Taishi , Emoto Takuo , Yamashita Tomoya , Yamanaka Katsuhiro , Miyahara Shunsuke , Takahashi Hiroaki , Hirata Kenichi , Okada Kenji
Published: July 2024

Background:
There is no treatment for acute aortic dissection (AAD) targeting inflammatory cells. We aimed to identify specific inflammatory cells associated with AAD and identify new therapeutic targets.

Methods:
We characterized the specific distribution of myeloid cells of both human type A AAD samples and a murine AAD model generated using angiotensin II (ANGII) and β-aminopropionitrile (BAPN) by single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq). We also examined the effect of an anti-interleukin-1β (IL-1β) antibody in the murine AAD model.

Results:
The proportion of IL1B
+
inflammatory macrophages and classical monocytes were increased in human AAD samples. Trajectory analysis demonstrated that IL1B
+
inflammatory macrophages uniquely observed in the aorta of AAD differentiated from S100A8/9/12
+
classical monocytes. In addition, inflammatory macrophages that stained positively for both IL-1β and CD68 accumulated in the false lumen of the adventitia. In parallel, we found increased infiltration of neutrophils and monocytes with the expression of cytokines, such as IL-1β, in the aorta and accumulation of inflammatory macrophages, derived from infiltrating monocytes, before the onset of macroscopic AAD in the murine AAD model. Finally, to investigate the association between IL-1β mainly derived from monocytes and IL1B
+
inflammatory macrophages, we conducted blocking experiments using an anti-IL-1β antibody. Anti-IL-1β antibody improved survival by preventing elastin degradation.

Conclusions:
We observed the accumulation of inflammatory macrophages expressing IL-1β in both human AAD samples and in a murine AAD model. Anti-IL-1β antibody could improve the mortality rate in mice, suggesting that it may be a treatment option for AAD.
Abstract 1014: Molecular Dynamics In The Progression Of Aortic Dissection With Emphasis On De Novo Elastic Fiber Synthesis
Authors: Ito Sohei , Lu Hong S , Daugherty Alan , Sawada Hisashi
Published: July 2024

Background:
Aortic dissection (AD) confined to the descending thoracic aorta is typically managed conservatively in the acute phase. However, these patients often require surgeries due to aortic dilatation in the chronic phase. Although preclinical studies have been conducted to investigate the mechanism of AD, most studies focused on the acute phase, especially the cause of AD. It remains unknown how molecular mechanisms alter following AD.

Methods and Results:
To determine the molecular alteration after AD, bulk RNA sequencing was performed using aortas from mice administered β-aminopropionitrile (BAPN) for 1, 4, or 12 weeks that represent pre, acute, and chronic phases of ADs, respectively. There were 6,755 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), and 2,667 and 1,173 DEGs were upregulated in the acute and chronic phases, respectively. Gene ontology analysis revealed that DEGs in the acute phase were related to inflammation, whereas DEGs in the chronic phase were associated with extracellular matrix. Those DEGs in the chronic phase included tropoelastin (
Eln
), the precursor of elastic fibers. In situ hybridization and immunostaining demonstrated that
Eln
mRNA and protein were distributed in the vascular wall of the false lumen. Of note, these molecules formed new elastic fibers, as evidenced by Verhoeff’s iron hematoxylin staining. The de novo fibers were thinner than native fibers; however, ultrasonography revealed that aortas with AD lesions had higher elasticity and distensibility compared to intact aortas. These data suggest that new elastic fibers protect against aortic rupture after AD. Next, a transcriptional factor prediction analysis was performed to identify a potential regulator of
Eln
transcription and found that
Etv5
could be aligned in both the promoter and enhancer regions of
Eln
. Immunostaining showed that ETV5 was spatially coincident with
Eln
mRNA and de novo fibers.

Conclusion:
Genes related to the extracellular matrix are upregulated in response to AD in BAPN-administered mice. Elastic fibers are newly formed in the vascular wall of the false lumen in chronic AD accompanied by enhanced
Etv5
.
Abstract 1020: Comparative Assessment Of Hscrp And Apolipoprotein B As Ascvd Risk Biomarkers
Authors: Amusat Saheed Oladele
Published: July 2024

According to the American Heart Association, the accumulation of plaque in the walls of arteries is identified as the primary cause of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Currently, ASCVD-related conditions remain the leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally. Apolipoprotein B has been identified as a more precise cardiovascular risk marker than LDL-C, while hsCRP has shown potential as a cardiovascular disease indicator. This study aims to investigate the diagnostic performance and routine screening cut-off of hsCRP for early atherosclerosis vascular diseases (ASCVD) risk in adult patients, comparing it with Apo B.

Objective:
To compare the diagnostic performance of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) with apolipoprotein B in assessing ASCVD risk.

Method:
A sample of 494 individuals from the NHANES 2015-2016 laboratory dataset, with a mean age greater than 17 years, was used for this study. ASCVD risk was measured by non-HDL-C, categorized into low and high risk based on the Mayo Clinic reference range. Predictors included Apo B, and hs-CRP. Binomial logistic regression and ROC curve analyses were conducted using the generalised linear models and pROC packages in RStudio IDE. Hypotheses were validated at p≤0.05, and diagnostic performance metrics such as ROC AUC, sensitivity, and specificity were measured on a scale of 0-1.

Result:
The findings revealed that for every 1g/L increase in apo B concentration, the odds of high ASCVD risk were approximately 3.8 х1011 times higher. Additionally, the model indicated that the odds of high ASCVD risk were 1.03 times higher for every 1mg/L increase in hsCRP concentration. However, this indicate that hsCRP level was not associated with odds of ASCVD risk. The ROC AUC for apo B and hsCRP were approximately 0.9739 and 0.6165, respectively, with cut-off values (sensitivity, specificity) of approximately 0.9g/L (0.927, 0.897) and 2.4 mg/L (0.596, 0.601), respectively. Thus, levels above these thresholds for both apo B and hsCRP are associated with high ASCVD risk.

Conclusion:
The study demonstrates that apo B exhibits high discriminatory and diagnostic accuracy, making it a suitable ASCVD risk biomarker compared to hsCRP. While hsCRP shows moderate diagnostic accuracy, it is not sufficient as a standalone ASCVD risk diagnostic marker. Therefore, apo B could serve as a replacement for LDL-C, while hsCRP could possibly serve as an add-on test in ASCVD risk assessment.
Abstract 1023: Cholesterol Sensitivity Of A K+ Channel, Kir2.1 Plays A Role In Weight Maintenance, Energy Distribution, And Akt-dependent Mouse Mesenteric Metabolism
Authors: Beverley Katie M , Granados Sara , Xu Pingwen , Levitan Irena
Published: July 2024

Background:
Inwardly Rectifying Potassium Channel 2.1 (Kir2.1) plays a role in the maintenance of membrane potential and is strongly suppressed by membrane cholesterol and diet-induced hypercholesterolemia. Specifically, Kir2.1 is critical for flow-induced vasodilation in mice. To determine the role of cholesterol-induced suppression of Kir2.1 channels in weight maintenance and energy metabolism under high fat diet (HFD) conditions, we generated a CRISPR mouse expressing a cholesterol-insensitive Kir2.1 mutant, Kir2.1
L222I
.

Objective:
In this study, we demonstrate that Kir2.1
L222I
has a protective effect against diet induced obesity, induces changes in mesenteric metabolism, and increased respiratory rate.

Methods:
C57/BL6J (WT) male mice with the Kir2.1
L222I
mutation were fed HFD and weighed after 15 weeks. Mouse feeding was assessed using BioDaq and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) determined body composition. Techniplast and iWorx metabolic cages were used for fecal and respiratory analysis. Metabolomic analysis was done on mesentery.

Results:
Initially, WT (n=6) and Kir2.1
L222I
(n=7) male mice weighed the same. After 15 weeks on HFD Kir2.1
L222I
mice weighed 16% less than WT mice (p=0.003). Kir2.1
L222I
mice also had improved body composition with lean-to-fat ratio a statistically significant 69% greater than WT. Changes in body mass do not depend on feeding behavior as there was no difference between Kir2.1
L222I
(n=8) and WT (n=6). The Kir2.1
L222I
mice do not excrete more feces than WT (n=5) in terms of weight or caloric content. Kir2.1
L222I
mice have increased respiration compared to WT as their exchange rate was a statistically significant 14% higher indicating that Kir2.1
L222I
mice burn more calories through respiration. Metabolomic pathway analysis did not identify any changes in carbohydrate or mitochondrial metabolism. However, it identified changes in amino acid and lipid metabolism, specifically, methionine and choline metabolites.

Conclusions:
The Kir2.1
L222I
mutation is protective against weight gain and associated changes in body composition in male mice up to 3 months on diet. Increased respiration may explain this protection. Metabolomics indicated an increase in Akt-dependent amino acid and lipid metabolism.
Abstract 1031: Prevalence Of Erectile Dysfunction And Its Associated Factors Among Filipino Adult Patients In A Tertiary Hospital: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Co Kimberly
Published: July 2024

Background:
Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is an important worldwide health issue that affects nearly half of men over the age of 40 years. It has a significant negative impact on the quality of life and life satisfaction of the affected individual as well as his partner. The primary objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of erectile dysfunction and its associated factors.

Methods:
This was a prospective and cross-sectional survey of Filipino adult patients seen at a Tertiary Hospital from April 2023 to September 2023. The instrument used was the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) Questionnaire. Comparison of characteristics by ED severity were performed using One Way ANOVA or Kruskal Wallis test for continuous variables, and Chi square or Fisher’s exact test for categorical variables. Multiple logistic regression analysis with backward elimination technique was utilized to identify the factors associated with ED. P values ≤0.05 were considered statistically significant.

Results:
A total of 106 men aged within 18-80 years, with mean age of 43.9 (±14.4) years, were included in the study. The prevalence of ED on this study was 10.4% among Filipino adult men with equal prevalence among <40 years and ≥40 years (p=0.075). Increasing waist circumference was associated with a 1.34 (OR = 1.13, p=0.004; 95% CI: 1.10-1.63) times increase in the odds of developing mild ED while hypertension was associated with an 82.677 (OR = 27.52, p=0.008; 95% CI: 3.17-2155.26) times increase in the odds of developing mild ED.

Conclusion:
One out of ten Filipinos have mild ED and the associated risk factors were hypertension and waist circumference. This study recommended to increase awareness among men, patients, and doctors around the country about the existence of ED problem and its consequence so that prevention can be advised and care can be adequately provided.

Keywords:
Erectile dysfunction, Hypertension, Waist Circumference, Prevalence, Factors

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Abstract 1036: Mechanisms Of Foamy Monocyte Formation In Atherosclerosis
Authors: Ahn WonMo , Burnett Faith , Singla Bhupesh , Ghoshal Pushpankur , Zoccheddu Martina , Yu Miao , Gonsalvez Graydon , Harris Ryan A , Csanyi Gabor
Published: July 2024

Diseases linked to atherosclerosis are the leading cause of death in the United States. Transmigration of monocytes across the endothelial layer and their differentiation into macrophages play an important role in the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis. These monocyte-derived macrophages internalize modified LDL in the arterial wall and drive the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Recent studies have shown that pharmacological depletion of foamy monocytes inhibits atherosclerosis development in mice, identifying monocyte uptake of plasma LDL as a therapeutic target in atherosclerosis. However, the precise mechanisms by which monocytes internalize plasma LDL remain unknown. The goal of our study was to investigate the role, and relative contribution, of macropinocytosis and scavenger receptors (
Cd36
and
Sr-a
) to foamy monocyte formation. The presence of foamy monocytes was confirmed in hypercholesterolemic mice and humans via flow cytometry analysis of Nile Red fluorescence. High resolution scanning electron microscopy and flow cytometry analysis of dextran internalization confirmed macropinocytosis stimulation in THP-1 and primary murine monocytes. Stimulation of macropinocytosis in monocytes induced uptake of both native LDL and oxLDL, leading to foamy monocyte formation
in vitro
. Pharmacological (EIPA) and genetic inhibition of macropinocytosis (
Lysm
-
CreER

T2+/-

Nhe1

-/-

) inhibited foamy monocyte formation (58.9%) in hypercholesterolemic mice
in vivo
. RT-PCR confirmed expression of
Cd36
and
Sr-a
in monocytes and deletion of
Cd36
and
Sr-a
inhibited foamy monocyte formation in hypercholesterolemic mice (10.3%) compared to wild type controls. FACS and bulk RNA sequencing characterized monocyte subsets including classical, intermediate, and non-classical monocytes in hypercholesterolemic
Cd36
-/-
/

Sr-a
-/-

and
Lysm
-
CreER

T2+/-

Nhe1

-/-

mice and their respective wild type controls. Mechanistic studies identified NADPH oxidase 2 (Nox2) and downstream redox regulation of actin-cytoskeleton as a major stimulator of monocyte macropinocytosis. These results provide novel insights into the mechanisms of foamy monocyte formation and potentially identify new therapeutic targets in the treatment of atherosclerosis.