bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting Acute Exacerbation Phenotype in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients Using VGG-16 Deep Learning
Authors: Feng Shengchuan , Zhang Ran , Zhang Wenxiu , Yang Yuqiong , Song Aiqi , Chen Jiawei , Wang Fengyan , Xu Jiaxuan , Liang Cuixia , Liang Xiaoyun , Chen Rongchang , Liang Zhenyu
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have a significant impact on hospitalizations, morbidity, and mortality of patients. This study aimed to develop a model for predicting acute exacerbation in COPD patients (AECOPD) based on deep-learning (DL) features. Methods: We performed a retrospective study on 219 patients with COPD who underwent inspiratory and expiratory HRCT scans. By recording the acute respiratory events of the previous year, these patients were further divided into non-AECOPD group and AECOPD group according to the presence of acute exacerbation events. Sixty-nine quantitative CT (QCT) parameters of emphysema and airway were calculated by NeuLungCARE software, and 2,000 DL features were extracted by VGG-16 method. The logistic regression method was employed to identify AECOPD patients, and 29 patients of external validation cohort were used to access the robustness of the results. Results: The model 3-B achieved an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.933 and 0.865 in the testing cohort and external validation cohort, respectively. Model 3-I obtained AUC of 0.895 in the testing cohort and AUC of 0.774 in the external validation cohort. Model 7-B combined clinical characteristics, QCT parameters, and DL features achieved the best performance with an AUC of 0.979 in the testing cohort and demonstrating robust predictability with an AUC of 0.932 in the external validation cohort. Likewise, model 7-I achieved an AUC of 0.938 and 0.872 in the testing cohort and external validation cohort, respectively. Conclusions: DL features extracted from HRCT scans can effectively predict acute exacerbation phenotype in COPD patients.
Vasoconstrictor Effects of Trace Amine-Associated Receptor Agonists in the Isolated Perfused Rat Kidney
Authors: Jragh Dina , Yousif Mariam H.M. , Oriowo Mabayoje A.
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Endogenous trace amines such as tryptamine and 3-iodothyronamine (T1AM) are present in mammalian tissues at very low concentrations. They produce their actions by activating surface G protein-coupled receptors known as trace amine-associated receptors (TAARs). Objective: The study was designed to investigate the possible vasoconstrictor effects of tryptamine, T1AM, and the selective TAAR1 agonist RO5263397 in isolated perfused rat kidney. Methods: Renal vascular reactivity experiment using male Wistar Kyoto (WKY, n = 76) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs, n = 81) were used in this study. Results: Tryptamine (1011–106 mole), T1AM (1011–106 mole), and RO5263397 (1011–106 mole) increased perfusion pressure in preparations from WKY rats and SHRs in a dose-dependent manner. EPPTB, a selective TAAR1 antagonist (10−6 M), significantly (p < 0.05) reduced agonist-induced increase in perfusion pressure in both WKY rats and SHRs, suggesting a role for TAAR1 activation in these responses. The vasoconstrictor responses in both groups were significantly reduced by L-type dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker, Rho-kinase, and protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitors suggesting the involvement of extracellular calcium and enhanced calcium sensitization. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenger TEMPO significantly inhibited the agonist-induced increase in perfusion pressure in preparations from SHRs but not WKY. Conclusion: The TAARs enhanced agonist-induced increase in perfusion causing vasoconstriction in the kidney involves the influx of extracellular calcium, increased calcium sensitization, and ROS in SHRs animals only.
Ubiquitin-Specific Protease 52 as a Prognostic Biomarker Correlates with Tumor Microenvironment and Therapy Response in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Zhou Jingkai , Nie Haihang , Yang Xiaoqiang , Wang Fan , Yu Panpan , Yu Yali , Ning Yumei , Lai Jun , Wang Haizhou , Zhao Qiu , Xu Fei
Published: July 2024

Introduction: As the primary members of the deubiquitinase family, ubiquitin-specific proteases can regulate the efficacy of immunotherapy and mediate immune evasion. However, further research is needed to explore the influence of USP52 on the prognosis of colorectal cancer (CRC), the tumor immune microenvironment, and therapeutic response. Methods: The differential expression of USP52 between CRC and normal tissues was analyzed using multiple public databases. The relationship between USP52 with the prognosis and clinicopathological characteristics of CRC patients was evaluated, and a nomogram was constructed to predict patient survival based on USP52 expression. Subsequently, gene set variation analysis (GSVA) was used to explore the potential biological functions of USP52 in CRC. The impact of USP52 on the tumor microenvironment (TME) was estimated. Moreover, the effect of USP52 on the response to immunotherapy and chemotherapeutic drugs in CRC was investigated. Finally, the correlation between tumor mutation burden (TMB)/microsatellite instability (MSI) status and USP52 was explored. Results: The expression of USP52 was markedly upregulated in CRC, correlating with a poor prognosis in patients. GSVA uncovered a strong association between high USP52 and immune suppression. Furthermore, high USP52 was found to be correlated with a non-inflamed TME, resulting in reduced immune cell infiltration levels. Additionally, it was observed that patients with high USP52 exhibited low sensitivity to both immunotherapy and chemotherapeutic drugs. Lastly, high USP52 was negatively associated with high TMB and MSI. Conclusion: This study revealed the significance of USP52 in TME, efficacy of therapy, and clinical prognosis in CRC, offering novel insights for the therapeutic advancements in CRC.
The Tumor Fraction Estimated by Rapid On-Site Evaluation Is Useful for Assessing the Suitability of Biopsy Specimens for Multiplex Genetic Testing
Authors: Uehara Toshitaka , Kawashima Daisuke , Kanatani Naoya , Hiraguchi Erika , Yoshida Kento , Masumoto Yosuke , Kuboyama Yusuke , Hiraki Yuka , Inumaru Emi , Ohishi Yoshihiro
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Multiplex genetic testing (MGT) has become the mainstream method for genetic mutation testing in the field of lung cancer treatment, but the suitability criteria for MGT biopsy specimens are stringent. Although rapid on-site evaluation (ROSE) is considered a useful method for obtaining the suitable biopsy specimens for MGT, no direct comparisons of ROSE and MGT are available. In this study, we first evaluated the accuracy of MGT and ROSE in our hospital. Then, we explored the potential utility of the cytological findings of ROSE for indicating the adequacy of biopsy specimens for MGT. Methods: These analyses were performed retrospectively using the data of 74 patients with lung cancer who underwent ROSE at our hospital in 2020–2022. Results: Regarding the accuracy of MGT, the success rate was 97.9% and the frequency of epidermal growth factor receptor mutation in adenocarcinoma cases was 34.6%. The results of ROSE were then compared with histological diagnoses. The sensitivity and positive predictive value were 95.9% and 100.0%, respectively. To analyze the utility of the ROSE results for determining the adequacy of biopsy specimens for MGT, we determined the tumor fraction in the ROSE preparations (ROSE-T%) and the tumor fraction (B-T%)/tumor cell number (B-TN) in the biopsy specimens. When the threshold of the ROSE-T% was set at 80%, there were statistically significant biases of the B-T% ≥20%/B-TN ≥300 cases between the ROSE-T% ≥80% and <80% groups. Conclusion: This is the first report to suggest the utility of ROSE-T% in assessing the suitability of biopsy specimens for MGT. This predictive ability may add further value to ROSE and help reduce the time required for diagnostic testing, and thereby the patient burden.
Quality Assurance in Immunocytochemistry: A Review and Practical Considerations
Authors: Lozano Maria D. , Robledano Ramon , Argueta Allan
Published: July 2024

Background: Cytological samples play a critical role in diagnosing advanced-stage tumors and those arising in difficult-to-reach anatomical sites such as the pancreatobiliary tract, lung, thyroid, suprarenal, pelvis, and others such as salivary glands. These samples are often the only available material for accurate diagnosis and for performing ancillary studies, such as immunocytochemistry (ICC) or the detection of molecular biomarkers. Summary: While the use of immunohistochemistry is well established and standardized on formalin-fixed-paraffin-embedded histological tissue, in cytological samples, it presents unique challenges. Methods used for obtaining and processing these specimens are complex and are not standardized among laboratories. Moreover, there is also diversity in the types of cytological samples potentially suitable for ICC. Key Messages: This review explores the current landscape of ICC practices in European and North American laboratories, highlighting variability in methods and the need for standardization to ensure reliable results and reproducibility of ICC on cytological specimens.
Implementing Flipped Classroom to Enhance Students’ Engagement in College level under National University Bangladesh
Authors: Shakil Md. Shakilur Zaman
Published: July 2024

Because of traditional classroom approach, lacking of engagement in classroom of honors level students under National University, Bangladesh is a very common scenario. So that, a large percentage of college graduates are found to be unemployed. The aim of this study is to find out possible solution of this instructional issue. Flipped classroom approach is a fruitful teaching strategy to deal with the problem. Flipped classroom method enhances students’ engagement in class. Students found pleasure and satisfaction to learn a new thing in a flipped classroom. Their class performance and attendance rate increased.
Assessment of Waste Management Awareness and Practices among Par-ents: A Sequential Explanatory Study
Authors: Sambat Lanah Maria D. , Bulaun Cassandra M. , Soliman Rachel Ann D. , Muñoz Ezequel R. , Hu Anabel S. , Deang Mark Anthony C. , Dominado Noel L.
Published: July 2024

This study explores parents’ awareness and practices on solid waste management.  It shows the significance of solid waste segregation for parental involvement and how it influences parents' attitudes and behaviors in a barangay in Magalang, Pampanga. The parents benefit from this study by learning more about the practices and appropriate segregation within their community. In this study, which involved 100 parents, a mixed-method sequential explanatory technique was employed. The results indicate that parents are not aware of the relevant laws about solid waste management and the sources of information about it. In terms of practices, parents are productive at disposing of, reducing, and recycling solid waste, but they don't reuse and segregate the solid waste that much. Overall, the results highlight how crucial proper waste sorting, awareness-building, community involvement, resourcefulness, and sustainability are to improve waste management. Although there are challenges, such as a lack of awareness and inconsistent efforts, recycling and waste removal are mentioned as sources of satisfaction. Parents also emphasize the need for proper segregation, solid waste management regulations, and providing incentives to promote sustainable behaviors in the barangay.
Mental Health and Academic Performance of Private Senior High School Students in the Division of Zambales amid Pandemic
Authors: Basa Webster B. , Abaniel Arra Q.
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to assess the mental health of private senior high school students and its effect on their academic performance during the fourth quarter of S.Y. 2020−2021 amid pandemic. It was conducted among grade 11 students enrolled in private schools in Zone I, Division of Zambales utilizing an explanatory sequential mixed methods design. The Mental Health Inventory or MHI-38 was used as the questionnaire for the quantitative part while online interviews were used for qualitative part. Findings revealed that students experienced anxiety during the pandemic. Despite being anxious, students were psychologically well and less distressed. Overall, they were in a positive state of mental health. The study also revealed that students' anxiety has significant difference with the modular distance learning delivery modality.  The study has found no significant relationship between students' mental health and academic performance during the last quarter of S.Y. 2020-2021. Qualitative data analysis found that students experienced mental, academic, and social problems during the pandemic.
Collaborative Learning Approach (CLA) in Improving Reading Proficiency
Authors: Delima Ronnel Rey R. , Risonar Cupid Jones O. , Digamon Jayson S.
Published: July 2024

Studies show that Filipino learners are not demonstrating proficiency in reading. In the recent Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2023 results, Filipino students were found to be poor at reading proficiency. One potential strategy is collaborative learning. Thus, this study aimed to determine the effect of the Collaborative Learning Approach (CLA) on the reading proficiency of seventh-grade students. This study used a quasi-experimental design with two experimental and control groups. Using purposive sampling, two grade 7 sections of the research site were included in the study. There were 26 students in one section who were chosen to be part of the experimental group and 24 in the other section, constituting the control group, for 50 students. Each group was given a pretest and a post-test. Students in the experimental group employed the collaborative reading method, while the control group used the traditional method. The questionnaire was validated by experts and deemed reliable, scoring .70 on the Kuder-Richardson test. Mean scores and independent t-tests were used to analyze the data. Results revealed a significant difference between the experimental and control groups regarding reading proficiency after the intervention of CLA with a p-value of 0.000. It was concluded that CLA significantly influences reading proficiency and can be recommended for use in the classroom. However, based on the PHIL-IRI criteria for reading proficiency, the students in the experimental group did not meet the minimum instructional or proficiency level requirements. It is therefore suggested that further research must be done to make conclusive evidence that CLA significantly influences reading proficiency and evaluate PHIL-IRI criteria for reading proficiency, considering that it is inconsistent with the independent t-test results showing a significant difference in the reading proficiency of the experimental group.
The Level of Reading Interest and Speed Reading of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Learners: A Correlational Study
Authors: Morong Nunilon Harvey H. , Congayo Rhain Kenneth , Benedicto Sharlene O. , Esparcia Michaella Angela A. , Oraca Ella Via , Abal George II , Cabe Alphil Christian C.
Published: July 2024

Speed reading is a requisite skill in reading comprehension among adolescent learners. It allows them to process information quickly and meaningfully. Since reading has been a major concern of the Philippine education despite efforts exerted for years, this study aimed to determine whether reading interest itself among adolescent learners correlates with speed reading, particularly grade 11 science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) learners from a private university in City of Koronadal, South Cotabato. A descriptive-correlational design was used in the study, utilizing an adopted survey questionnaire to assess the level of reading interest and a reading comprehension test to assess the speed reading of the respondents. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as weighted mean to describe the level of reading interest; an effective reading rate (EER) to assess speed reading; and a Pearson correlation coefficient (r) to determine the relationship between reading interest and speed reading. It was found that the level of reading interest of the respondents was high; their speed reading was classified as above average; and thus, there was a high positive correlation between the level of reading interest and speed reading among the respondents, signifying that efforts should be made as well toward intensifying love for reading among Filipino learners.
Maintaining Academic Integrity and Validating Student Outcomes
Authors: Visto James , Zaluaga Zocorro Anne R. , Bucar Jimmy D.
Published: July 2024

The experiences of English teachers in learning assessment in the modular distance learning modality provide valuable insights into the assessment trends and interventions needed to improve student learning. This study delved into the experiences of English teachers in learning assessment in the modular distance learning modality as a precursor to understanding the assessment trends and interventions in the Department of Education, Division of Bohol, and Tagbilaran City for the school year 2021–2022. A narrative research design was used to understand the experiences of ten (10) purposely selected English teachers from public schools in Bohol and Tagbilaran City Divisions in English assessment in the modular distance learning modality. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to collect data, which was then analyzed using thematic analysis. Results revealed that the selected English teachers in Bohol have been using various assessment tools, methods, and feedback mechanisms during the implementation of modular distance learning. These include diagnostic, formative, and summative assessments and traditional and alternative assessment methods. Teachers have also used multiple feedback mechanisms, including written, online, in-person, and multimodal feedback. To maintain academic integrity, teachers have been providing clear guidance and support to students, avoiding bias and favoritism, and using specific criteria for evaluation. The study also found that teachers have faced challenges in ensuring academic integrity, overcoming logistical and communication barriers, and adapting to new instructional and assessment methods. However, they have demonstrated resilience by aligning their assessment tools with the Most Essential Learning Competencies (MELC), utilizing innovative feedback mechanisms, and promoting academic integrity. The study concludes by recommending that teachers adopt a flexible approach to assessment, promote the alignment of assessment tools with the MELC, encourage multiple feedback mechanisms, promote academic integrity, and provide support and resources to teachers.
The Dominant Sports Coaching Style Preferred by the Athletes from a State University in the Philippines
Authors: Abayari Jenny Danica P. , Tilan Karen M. , Aton Armand G. , Reyes Kristine Denise M.
Published: July 2024

This research explores the dominant sports coaching style preferred by athletes at Cavite State University Imus Campus in the Philippines. Drawing upon a descriptive research methodology, the study investigates athletes' preferences across various demographic factors and types of sports played. A total of 183 officially enrolled athletes participated in the study, providing valuable insights into their coaching preferences.
The findings reveal a universal preference for democratic coaching styles (x̄= 4.69) among athletes, emphasizing collaboration, communication, and participatory decision-making. Regardless of age, sex, year level, or degree program, athletes consistently rated democratic coaching as their preferred style. However, variations and exceptions were observed across certain types of sports, highlighting the importance of tailored coaching approaches. An interesting finding emerged regarding archery, where the athlete's average ratings for all coaching styles—Democratic, Autocratic, and Laissez-Faire—were consistently rated as x̄=5.00, suggesting a preference for any coaching style by a single athlete. Moreover, exceptions were observed in specific sports. For instance, in Chess, an Autocratic coaching style was dominant, indicating a preference for a directive approach (x̄=4.91). Similarly, in Lawn Tennis, athletes showed dual preferences for both Democratic and Autocratic coaching styles.
It is significant that coaches recognize and adapt to athletes' preferences to optimize engagement, motivation, and performance outcomes. Aligning the appropriate coaching style to the athletes’ preference, can enhance the overall athletic experience and contribute to the success and satisfaction of athletes in their sporting endeavors.
Accounting Information System and Environmental Uncertainty among Agri-Related Cooperatives in Davao del Norte
Authors: Flores Joe Mari N. , Baguio Cristen Ge P. , Idul Frances Joy M. , Llemit Maria Ella M.
Published: July 2024

The primary purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between the variables covered in this study - the Accounting Information System and environmental uncertainty among agri-related cooperatives- and provide personal knowledge and a framework for the contingency theory. The research advocates that most entities need to modernize their business operations due to the emergence of technological advances to support organizational change and decision-making. The study's findings aim to benefit agri-related cooperatives, such as the Board of Directors, the Management, the Entrepreneurs, and future researchers seeking insights. The study focused on agri-related cooperatives in Davao del Norte, targeting accountants or bookkeepers. The selection of respondents was made in a complete enumeration involving seventy-four (74) respondents for the survey as per the data provided by the Cooperative Development Authority. The methodology aims for more reliable insights into the Accounting Information System and environmental uncertainty representing the agri-related cooperative sector. The findings indicate that adequately using a reliable Accounting Information System helps businesses deal with uncertainties. However, the greater the likelihood of environmental uncertainty, the greater the possibility that the Accounting Information System is unlikely to capture operational issues useful for decision-making. Thus, this study concludes that the Agri-related cooperatives in Davao del Norte are highly uncertain, and the usage of the Accounting Information system did not significantly affect the decision-making process.
Assessment of Police Trainees’ Satisfaction with the Public Safety Basic Recruit Course of The National Police Training Institute
Authors: Villa Elizabeth B. , Jarque Jr. Vicente L.
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to determine police trainees' satisfaction with the Public Safety Basic Recruit Course of the NPTI, and the significant difference in satisfaction between Criminology and non-criminology graduate police trainees. The study applied descriptive correlational research design and interviews using a self-made survey questionnaire for 218 respondents and prepared guided interview questions for five key informants from the graduating police trainees at NCRTC. The data obtained were collated, sorted, summarized, and subjected to statistical treatment methods. The result of the study revealed that police trainees were very satisfied with the Public Safety Basic Recruit Course. They greatly appreciated the quality of training program. However, facilities, equipment, and supplies needed attention and improvement. Interviews disclosed that despite high satisfaction, police trainees faced various challenges that dissatisfied them. These includes frequent shortages of water supplies, overcrowding of dormitories and classrooms, and insufficient faculty members. However, despite these, they remained optimistic that the training management can address it. Additionally, the study found that there was no significant difference in satisfaction between Criminology and non-criminology graduate police trainees. This suggests that both groups had similar levels of satisfaction, and highly appreciative with the training program.
To enhance further the satisfaction of police trainees, the NPTI should focus on improving facilities, equipment, and supplies, and address the specific concerns raised by the trainees. Furthermore, an action plan should be developed, outlining realistic, measurable, and time-bound plans, programs, and activities to address the concerns of police trainees.
What Makes a Street Attractive? A Study of The Factors Explaining the Attractiveness of Users of Two Streets in Algiers Using Linear Regressions
Authors: Kadri Ouafa , Rahmani Lyes , Messaoudene Maha
Published: July 2024

This article examines the factors behind attractiveness at street level. It postulates that attractiveness is induced by what the street offers in terms of consumption spaces and by the presence of convenience. The study focused on two streets in Algiers: one historical entity and one emerging entity.  A sample of 269 individuals was used to collect data using a tool that measures attractiveness, convenience, and consumption spaces. These include commercial, cultural, leisure, symbolic, social and landscape dimensions. Linear regressions were used to determine the impact of these dimensions on the attractiveness. The results show that the symbolic dimension, followed by the social dimension, are the factors with the greatest influence on street attractiveness.
Murabahah Financing in Islamic Banks with Fiduciary Collateral Review from the Perspective of Legal Certainty and Utility
Authors: Nugraha Ivan , Imaniyati Neni Sri , Putra Panji Adam Agus
Published: July 2024

One of the financing contracts offered by Islamic banks is the Murabahah financing contract. The Murabahah financing contract functions to increase the utility of money and capital, as well as the utility of goods. Article 127 of the Compilation of Sharia Economic Law (KHES) allows the seller to request the buyer to provide collateral in the Murabahah contract. Fatwa DSN-MUI No. 03/DSN-MUI/IV/2000 regarding Murabahah permits banks to request collateral from financed customers. This provision aims to ensure that customers are serious about making payments. Based on KHES and the fatwa, banks are allowed to request collateral from customers to protect or ensure that their rights are not violated. In practice, to ensure that customers comply with payments, banks request collateral from customers. This collateral can be movable or immovable property. Collateral in the form of immovable property is called fiduciary collateral. Fiduciary collateral is regulated in Law No. 42 of 1999 concerning Fiduciary Collateral (UUJF). According to Article 5 paragraph 1 of UUJF, the imposition of collateral with fiduciary collateral "must" be made by a notarial deed. With this provision of UUJF, there is a difference. KHES and the fatwa of DSN MUI do not require financing contracts to be made using a notarial deed, while UUJF requires it to be made by a notarial deed. Islamic banks, some of which require financing contracts to be made by a notarial deed, while others do not. The adoption of UUJF in Islamic financing is considered inappropriate because it violates Sharia values. Objectives:
(1) Explain the regulations used in Murabahah financing contracts in Islamic banks with fiduciary collateral according to the objectives of legal certainty and utility.
(2) Describe the implementation of legal protection for customers using Murabahah financing contracts in Islamic banks with fiduciary collateral according to the objectives of legal certainty and utility. Research Method: Research approach: normative juridical. Research nature: descriptive analysis. Data types: secondary data and primary data. Sample determination technique: purposive sampling. Data collection technique: literature study and interviews. Data analysis technique: interpretation and legal analogy.
Political Communication Strategy of The General Election Supervisory Agency of Karimun District in Legislative & Presidential Election in 2024
Authors: Khairunnisa  , Nugroho Catur
Published: July 2024

Elections are one of the most important democratic processes in Indonesia. This study aims to examine more deeply the political communication carried out by Bawaslu Karimun Regency in the 2024 legislative & presidential elections. This research uses a qualitative research approach with a constructivist paradigm and data collection by collecting data with interviews and documents. The study uses descriptive analysis methods through library research. The research identifies problems to ensure elections are fair, transparent, and free from various forms of manipulation or violations. The analysis includes communication and situation analysis, namely cooperation with the media to fight hoaxes, provide accurate information, and oversee elections transparently. The implementation and monitoring of communication strategies are critical to maintaining integrity and transparency in general elections. The evaluation and re-planning of the communication strategy is an important step to assess performance and identify areas for improvement.
O impacto das práticas de sustentabilidade na performance financeira e na criação de valor das empresas
Authors: Lima Wallace , Jucá Michele Nascimento
Published: July 2024

Empresas, mercados, governos e a sociedade em geral têm apresentado um interesse crescente sobre temas de sustentabilidade. Entretanto, a viabilidade econômica dessas práticas pelas empresas ainda é controversa. Há estudos que confirmam seu impacto positivo na performance financeira e valor das empresas. Já outros destacam os altos custos em sua implementação, sem que haja um benefício compensatório. Além disso, o nível de desenvolvimento dos países apresenta um efeito moderador na adoção dessas práticas pelas organizações. Assim, este estudo tem como objetivo avaliar o impacto das práticas sustentáveis na performance financeira e criação de valor das empresas, considerando ainda o efeito moderador do nível de desenvolvimento dos países. Para tanto, são analisadas 355.416 observações de 2.509 empresas, localizadas em 4 países desenvolvidos e 5 parceiros-chaves da Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development. Os dados são obtidos a partir das bases da Bloomberg, Capital IQ e Banco Mundial para o período de 2010 a 2022. A verificação desses objetivos é feita via modelo hierárquico linear ou regressão multinível com dados em painel. Como resultado, há a confirmação do impacto positivo das práticas sustentáveis na adição de valor e melhoria da performance financeira das organizações, sobretudo para aquelas localizadas em países emergentes.
A vacinação na França: a complexidade do caso francês e a necessária adaptação do regime jurídico às crises sanitárias
Authors: Ramdjee Bruno
Published: July 2024

A França é o país do mundo com mais desconfiança em relação às vacinas e com a maior proporção de pessoas que hesitam em se vacinar. Essa particularidade francesa é antiga e tem várias explicações históricas e sociológicas relacionadas, entre outros motivos, crises sanitárias anteriores. O objetivo deste artigo foi apresentar e analisar o regime jurídico francês relativo à vacinação, bem como as particularidades ligadas à política de vacinação contra a covid-19 na França. O artigo inicia tratando da desconfiança dos franceses em relação à vacinação e das principais razões para essa desconfiança, a partir da análise da literatura de saúde pública. Em seguida, com base em textos legislativos e regulatórios, jurisprudências administrativa e constitucional, bem como na doutrina jurídica, analisou-se o marco legal da vacinação e as questões político-jurídicas da extensão da obrigatoriedade da vacinação na França. Por fim, foram investigadas as novas disposições especiais relativas à vacinação contra a covid-19 decorrentes da gestão da crise pandêmica.
A modelagem de dados para inteligência artificial: implicações e percalços no ensino de literatura
Authors: Siston Gabriel Magalhães , Huapaya Raoni Schimitt , Souza Natália Elda Jorge de , Silva Isabelly Pocidonio da
Published: July 2024

In the wake of recent discussions about the use of artificial intelligence for education, this study aims to describe the project “Continuidades e reelaborações da Flânerie na crônica de Lima Barreto.” The possibility of using ChatGPT for teaching evinces the challenge of filling out a database on literature science. For this, modeling emerges as an appropriate method to convey scientific information.
Modelização semiótica do espaço quilombo: a historiografia recodificada pelo cinema
Authors: Machado Irene de Araujo
Published: July 2024

This essay aims to review the semiosis of the colonial power that, by choosing a single perspective of the historical narrative, has omitted two of the nation builders: Indigenous and Afrodiasporic peoples. This study focuses on the critical metalanguage of historiography that has moved toward the notion of the quilombo as a historical turning point. So, the main hypothesis of the essay is the idea of the quilombo and of terreiro as a counterspace born inside the colonial project to be a free. By analyzing the films Orixá Ninú Ilê (1978) and Ôrí (1989), this study arrive at the idea that the quilombo has become an existential space.
Fotografia e cidadania: prática comunicacional em Curralinho – Marajó
Authors: Barbosa Ana Karoline Oliveira Figueiredo , Costa Thamyres Ferreira , Amorim Célia Regina Trindade Chagas , Lima Junior Walter Teixeira
Published: July 2024

This study departs from a multimedia workshop of the ÀWÚRE Ribeirinhos Project in Curralinho, in the region of Marajó, Pará, Brazil. After it, academic restlessness arose to reflect on what would be the perceptions of the young people of Curralinho about the municipality and their daily lives based on the photographic essay they produced to promote active participation and awareness of citizenship in the construction of their own narratives. This study proposed to understand how young people portray their local reality by photography, exploring the themes, perspectives, and image approaches in the produced material. This research also seeks to investigate the influence of the geographical, social, and cultural context in these visual production representations and identify the difficulties this population faces and their expression by photographs.
Abstract 1015: Knockout Of P27
Kip1
Accelerates Topical Elastase/3-aminopropionitrile Fumarate Salt-induced Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Rupture In Mice
Authors: Kamada Keisuke , Niu Hong , Kim Kevin , Liu Hui , Tang Gale L
Published: July 2024

Background:
Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) are multifactorial diseases, and unknown genetic factors could contribute to aneurysms. The cell cycle inhibitor CDKN1B gene, also known as p27
Kip1
(p27), affects the arterial response to injury. Previous studies have shown that the loss of p27 exacerbates atherosclerosis progression by increasing vascular smooth muscle cells and macrophages. To assess the role of p27 in AAA development, another form of arterial response to inflammatory injury, we conducted experiments on the AAA model using p27 knockout (p27
-/-
) and wild-type (WT) mice.

Methods:
AAAs were induced in male and female p27
-/-
and WT (C57BL/6J) mice by topically applying porcine pancreatic elastase and administrating 0.2% 3-aminopropionitrile fumarate salt (BAPN) in the drinking water. Topical elastase application was divided into active and heat-inactivated elastase groups. The aortic diameter was evaluated by ultrasound examination preoperatively and every 7 days postoperatively (
Fig. A
). Surviving mice were sacrificed after the final ultrasound evaluation, and aortic samples were collected for histological analysis.

Results:
Fig. B
shows the aortic diameter change evaluated by ultrasound examination. AAA rupture occurred in one male p27-/- mice (33%, 1 of 3) and two female p27-/- mice (40%, 2 of 5), but in no WT mice of either gender. Macrophages were assessed using anti-F4/80 antibody. In the elastase-active group, both male and female p27
-/-
mice had a significantly higher accumulation of macrophage than WT mice (P<0.01 and P<0.01, respectively), but there was no significant staining of F4/80 in the elastase-inactive group (
Fig. C and D
).

Conclusions:
Knockout of p27 exacerbated aneurysm rupture in a topical elastase/BAPN-induced AAA model and was associated with increased macrophage infiltration.
Abstract 1047: Cerebral Cavernous Malformation 2 Knockout Hinders Murine Atherosclerosis And Lowers Vascular Inflammation
Authors: Fang Shi , Lee-Kim Vivian , Barry Aurelie , Mejia Justin , Schnitzler Gavin R , Gupta Rajat M
Published: July 2024

Introduction:
Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified >300 loci associated with coronary artery disease (CAD). The chr7p13 locus harbors several variants associated with decreased CAD risk, which are within the exon or the potential regulatory element of cerebral cavernous malformation 2 (CCM2, odds ratio = 0.95, p=1.53e-08). While CCM2 has been studied in venous endothelial cells (ECs) in the context of cerebral cavernous malformation, the role of CCM2 in aortic ECs and coronary atherosclerosis remains unknown.

Methods and Results:
To test whether CCM2 regulates atherosclerosis development, CCM2 heterozygous knockout (CCM2 +/-) mice and their control littermates (CCM2 +/+) were injected with AAV-PCKS9-D377Y and subjected to a high-fat, high cholesterol diet for 12 weeks. Atherosclerotic lesions were quantified at three different aortic sites (aortic root, minor aortic arch, and the brachiocephalic artery). Notably, heterozygous CCM2 knockout mice exhibited reduced atherosclerosis lesion in the aortic root in male mice (p=0.03), but not in female mice. Next, we sought to understand the mechanism by which CCM2 regulates the development of atherosclerosis. Single cell RNA-seq was conducted using aorta from CCM2 +/- mice and CCM2 +/+ mice. Gene set enrichment analysis on the EC population suggested that CCM2 heterozygous knockout suppressed inflammation pathways especially the TNF-alpha signaling pathway. Concordantly, after 12-weeks of high-fat, high cholesterol diet, the number of monocytes in the aorta were decreased in CCM2 +/- mice when compared to CCM2 +/+ mice. Furthermore, in vitro, ECs lacking CCM2 showed impaired THP-1 monocyte adhesion (p=0.001) and decreased expression of MCP-1 (p=3e-4).

Conclusions:
Our findings suggest that CCM2 heterozygous knockout hinders the development of atherosclerosis. This is likely achieved by lowering MCP-1 expression and decreasing monocyte recruitment. Further investigations are being conducted to functionally identify the causal variant in the CCM2 locus, specifically under disease-relevant stimuli, to further our understanding of CCM2’s potential as a diagnostic and therapeutic target in CAD.
Abstract 1052: Sex Specific Effects Of
Zbp1
Deficiency In Mouse Lesion Necrotic Core
Authors: Han Juying , Opoku Emmanuel , Smith Jonathan D
Published: July 2024

We previously fine mapped a mouse atherosclerosis susceptibility locus on chr 2 via an intercross between AKR/J (atherosclerosis resistant) and DBA/2J (atherosclerosis sensitive) strains on the apoE-deficient background. The
Zbp1
gene, encoding Z-DNA binding protein 1, is one of only 3 protein coding genes in the fine mapped locus. Prior mouse aorta single cell RNAseq shows
Zbp1
expression in monocytes and macrophages > endothelial cells and fibroblasts. The ZBP1 protein plays a role in non-canonical necroptosis and inflammatory signaling. There are 2 mouse
Zbp1
mRNA splice isoforms, long and short, which respectively generate a full-length protein and a C-terminal truncated isoform that is missing the RHIM domains required for necroptosis activity. Our prior RNAseq found ~2-fold higher
Zbp1
expression in DBA/2 vs. AKR bone marrow macrophages (p=0.002), with a short to long isoform ratio of about 2.5. To determine if
Zbp1
is an atherosclerosis modifier gene, we treated wildtype (WT) and
Zbp1
knockout (K0) female and male mice at 6 weeks of age, both on the C57BL/6J background, with LDLr antisense oligos weekly for 16 weeks while feeding a western-type diet. Upon sacrifice at 22 weeks of age, body weight, liver weight, total cholesterol, and HDL-C were significantly reduced in KO vs WT male, but not female, mice (p= 0.005, 0.0003, 0.007, and 0.002, respectively (Figure). In both male and female mice, there were non-significant trends for reduced aortic root lesion area in KO vs. WT mice. The median necrotic lesion area was decreased in KO vs. WT females by 55%, but due to variation this was not significant. In males, median necrotic area was decreased by 83% (p=0.02, Figure). The % necrotic lesion area was decreased by 32% in female (not significant) and 67% in male (p=0.009) KO vs. WT mice (Figure). Thus,
Zpb1
appears to be an atherosclerosis modifier gene that may function by increasing lesion necrosis, concordant with its known role in non-canonical necroptosis.
Abstract 1068: Peak Gamma' Fibrinogen Levels Are Associated With Death In COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Revollido Queen , Buzzard Lydia , Strnad Matthew , Khan Akram , Messer William , Farrell David H
Published: July 2024

Introduction:
COVID-19 is associated with high levels of inflammation and high rates of thrombosis. We have shown previously that the inflammatory biomarker gamma' fibrinogen (GPF) is significantly associated with COVID-19 severity, as judged by SpO
2
levels. In addition, up to 70% of long COVID patients have GPF levels above the range of normal, even 6 weeks after infection.

Hypothesis:
We assessed the hypothesis that high GPF levels, by virtue of GPF's ability to bind and sequester active thrombin and prevent its inhibition by heparin/antithrombin III, would be associated with thrombotic events and adverse outcomes in COVID-19 patients.

Methods:
52 COVID-19 patients at a tertiary care medical center in the IMPACC and Biobank studies were retrospectively enrolled, and GPF levels were measured using a commercial ELISA.

Results:
11 patients died, and they had significantly higher peak levels of GPF, 135.2 ± 18.3 mg/dL (mean ± SE), compared to patients who lived, 87.5 ± 7.3 mg/dL, using a Wilcoxon rank-sum test (p = 0.013). Ten patients developed a VTE, either a deep vein thrombosis or a pulmonary embolism. The patients that developed a VTE had a trend towards higher levels of GPF, 125.4 ± 19.1 mg/dL (mean ± SE), compared to patients who did not develop a VTE (91.0 ± 7.7 mg/dL), but these results did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.067). ROC curve analysis revealed an area under the curve of 0.74 for GPF and death, whereas the area under the curve for GPF and VTE was 0.69.

Conclusions:
In conclusion, GPF levels are significantly associated with death in COVID-19 patients. Monitoring GPF levels in COVID-19 patients may therefore be warranted. Further studies are necessary to determine if the heparin resistance associated with GPF is involved.
Abstract 1086: Singing Improves Vascular Function
Authors: Bagheri-Mohamdi-Pour Mehri , Hammad Muhammad , Visotcky Alexis , Anger Amberly , Zhang Jun , Sparapani Rodney , Kulinski Jacquelyn P
Published: July 2024

Introduction:
Singing is a physical activity with less reliance on skeletal muscle and more dependence on the diaphragm and cardiorespiratory systems. Unlike traditional exercise, the impact of singing on vascular health has not been studied. We hypothesized that older patients with known coronary artery disease (CAD) would have a favorable improvement in vascular endothelial function after 30 minutes of singing.

Methods:
Adult subjects with known CAD were recruited from cardiology clinics to participate in two singing sessions 30 minutes each and one control (rest period) session 2 to 7 days apart, according to a randomized, controlled, single-blind, crossover design. The two singing intervention sessions were (1) a pre-recorded video with a voice professor directing a ‘patient’ singing and (2) live singing coaching with a music therapist. Microvascular function was measured with peripheral arterial tonometry (PAT) before and after singing and expressed as Framingham reactive hyperemia index (fRHI). Macrovascular function was measured with brachial artery flow-mediated dilation. Cross-over treatment estimates of video, coaching, and control sessions were obtained with unbalanced ANOVA including the following variables: subject, the order of their visit, treatment, and its carry-over.

Results:
Sixty-five subjects (40% women, mean age 68±7) with CAD completed the study. Comorbidities included type 2 diabetes (29%), hypertension (75%), hyperlipidemia (85%), heart failure (19%), and self-reported physical or orthopedic limitations (54%). Compared to the control visit, there was a 26.5% (SE11.1%, p=0.0192) increase in fRHI in the video visit and a 17.3% (SE 10.7%, p=0.1081) increase in fRHI in the coaching visit. There was a small carryover effect with the video visit. There was no change in macrovascular endothelial function across the three different visits.

Conclusions:
Thirty minutes of singing improved microvascular endothelial function but not macrovascular endothelial function, in older patients with known CAD. This represents a potential biologic mechanism by which singing can benefit the cardiovascular system. Future studies should explore the sustained vascular adaptation to singing over weeks to months of singing.
Abstract 1128: Smooth Muscle Myosin Ii Dynamics And Specificity To Muscle Type
Authors: Demeulenaere Sasha K , Bennet Margaret , Oakes Patrick , Beach Jordan
Published: July 2024

Smooth muscle myosin II (SMII), the main motor protein in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC), generates the contractile forces crucial to VSMC function. SMII filaments assemble into bundles that bind and pull on the actin cytoskeleton. VSMCs exist on a functional spectrum between the contractile and synthetic phenotypes. Our previous work established a discernible difference in EGFP-SMII filaments between phenotypes. The synthetic phenotype is highly dynamic with SMII filaments freely assembling into bundles and dissociating into monomers. The contractile phenotype features stabilized SMII bundles leading to organized contractile machinery. While known that VSMC function changes with artery size, differences in SMII dynamics remain understudied. We will investigate these differences in SMII between VSMCs of large conducting, small conducting, and resistive arteries to determine SMII functional properties unique to each VSMC type. We will extend this to looking at smooth muscle cells (SMC) from other tissue types. We aim to identify tissue-specific SMII properties to discover mechanisms that predispose specific tissues to pathologies and potential tissue-specific targets for therapeutics.

We recently engineered a novel endogenously-tagged EGFP-SMII mouse, which allowed us to observe changes in VSMC contractile machinery directly and to better understand SMII dynamics. We isolated SMCs from the EGFP-SMII mouse from the vasculature, gastrointestinal, and genitourinary tracts. We measured SMII filament assembly, SMII fluorescent recovery after photobleaching (FRAP), and whole-cell and organoid contractility using traction force microscopy.

With the isolation of single cells, we observed a very rapid transition in aortic VSMC phenotype, from contractile to synthetic, with the contractile machinery demonstrating synthetic changes accordingly. The physiologic, native whole-tissue state had stable SMII dynamics, while isolated cells (in a pathologic, cultured state) exhibited rapid filament turnover. We also observed greater stability in aortic tissue ex vivo compared to other vessels and tissues containing SMII. These results suggest aortic SMII has unique properties and pathways specific to the type and state of the tissue.