bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Prognostic value of strain echocardiography measurements in patients with non-ischemic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Tao M , Despotidis G , Ghosalkar D , Tam E , Goldschmidt M , Mann N 
Published: June 2023

Abstract

Funding Acknowledgements
Type of funding sources: None.

Background
Speckle tracking echocardiography has been increasingly used in the evaluation of myocardial function. However, the association of reduced strain measurements with cardiovascular outcomes remains unclear in patients with nonischemic cardiomyopathy (NICM).

Purpose
The purpose of this meta-analysis is to evaluate the prognostic value of speckle tracking echocardiography in patients with NICM.

Methods
A literature search was conducted for studies reporting on the association of left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LVGLS), left ventricular global circumferential strain (LVGCS), left ventricular global radial strain (LVGRS), and right ventricular global longitudinal strain (RVGLS) on baseline echocardiography with cardiovascular outcomes on long term follow-up in patients with NICM. The primary endpoint was major adverse cardiac events (MACE). Secondary endpoints included left ventricular reverse remodeling (LVRR) and ventricular arrhythmias (VA). The search included the following databases: Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. The search was not restricted to time or publication status.

Results
A total of 17 studies with 2375 participants (640 with adverse outcomes and 1735 without adverse outcomes) met inclusion criteria. Mean follow-up duration was 33 months. Mean ejection fraction was 30%. Baseline LVGLS, LVGCS, LVGRS, and RVGLS were significantly lower in NICM patients who subsequently experienced MACE on follow-up compared to patients without MACE (SMD −0.57, 95% CI −0.82, −0.32; p&lt;0.01; SMD −0.54, 95% CI −0.75, −0.33; p&lt;0.01; SMD −0.51, 95% CI −0.7, −0.32; p&lt;0.01; SMD −0.46, 95% CI −0.75, −0.18; p&lt;0.01). Baseline LVGLS was significantly higher in patients who experienced LVRR on follow-up compared to patients without LVRR (SMD 0.36, 95% CI 0.05–0.68; p = 0.02). Baseline LVGLS was significantly lower in NICM patients who experienced VA on follow-up (SMD −1.19, 95% CI −2.12, −0.26, p = 0.01).

Conclusions
Speckle tracking echocardiography may represent a useful clinical tool for risk stratification of NICM patients at risk for adverse cardiac events and poor treatment response.
Prognostic role of stress-CMR and SPECT-MPI in patients undergoing intermediate-to-high risk non-cardiac surgery
Authors: Fazzari F , Cannata F , Figliozzi S , Mantovani R , Chiarito M , Gitto M , Catapano F , Lisi C , Di Dedda E , Stefanini G , Condorelli G , Monti L , Francone M 
Published: June 2023

Abstract

Funding Acknowledgements
Type of funding sources: None.

Introduction
Data supporting the role of stress test myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) before non-cardiac surgery (NCS) are sparse and out of date. In particular, there is no specific evidence on the use of stress cardiac magnetic resonance (sCMR) in this setting. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the impact MPI stress test with sCMR and single-photon emission computed tomography myocardial perfusion imaging (SPECT-MPI) on surgery-related cardiac events.

Method
In this single-centre retrospective study, we included all patients with CAD or at least two cardiovascular risk factors undergoing intermediate-to-high-risk non-cardiac surgery. After a pre-operative cardiological assessment, including EKG and echocardiography, the indication to perform a pre-operative MPI-stress-test relied on the clinical judgement of the cardiologist. Cardiac events occurring within 30 days from surgery were evaluated. A composite primary endpoint included myocardial infarction, unstable angina, cardiac death, cardiogenic shock and pulmonary oedema. The secondary endpoint was the rate of acute coronary syndromes.

Results
A total of 1590 patients were included, of whom 669 underwent an MPI stress test strategy (287 sCMR, 382 SPECT-MPI). The rate of 30-day cardiac events was lower in the stress test group vs. the non-stress test group (1.2% vs 3.4%; p 0,006; figure 1). Adopting a stress test strategy showed a significant reduction of composite endpoint (OR: 0.334, IC: 0.155 – 0.766, p 0.009) and acute coronary syndrome (OR: 0.414, IC: 0.174 – 0.984, p 0.046) at multivariable analysis. Stress CMR was non-inferior to SPECT in predicting cardiac events and showed a greater accuracy to predict coronary artery revascularizations (AUC for sCMR: 0.95 with a percentage of myocardial ischemia cut-point of 5.5%; figure 2).

Conclusions
A stress-test strategy is associated with a lower incidence of cardiac events in high-risk patients candidate to intermediate-to-high-risk non-cardiac surgery. The rate of cardiac complications is similarly predicted by sCMR and SPECT-MPI, although sCMR is more accurate in predicting coronary artery revascularizations.
Evaluating the feasibility of using artificial intelligence for right ventricle function analysis in a routine clinical setting
Authors: Dindane Z , Winkler A , Botan R , Linke A , Sveric K 
Published: June 2023

Abstract

Funding Acknowledgements
Type of funding sources: None.

Background
Evaluation of right ventricle (RV) function has clinical value when investigating patients with symptomatic heart failure. However, the assessment of RV function using two-dimensional echocardiography (Echo) is operator-dependent and is time-consuming. Technological advances have enabled the use of artificial intelligence (AI) based algorithms for functional analysis with high reproducibility, facilitated by manufacturer-neutral platform.

Purpose
We sought to determine the feasibility of using an AI-based application to measure RV function in patients referred for diagnostic evaluation of heart failure, and to compare the results with operator-generated (Human) measurements in order to assess the accuracy and efficiency of the AI.

Methods
We conducted a study on 190 consecutive patients, comparing the analysis times and accuracies of tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) and fractional area change (FAC) measurements using both Human and AI-based methods on three consecutive heart beats of the same Echo clip. The participants manually measured TAPSE in M-mode and FAC by tracking the RV endocardium in diastole and systole, while the AI automatically assessed these parameters in a single apical RV-centered 4-chamber view. The results of these measurements were then compared to determine the accuracy and efficiency of the AI.

Results
The measurement feasibility by the AI was 92% (n=175) on the RV clips. The main reasons for exclusion were poor image quality and insufficient representation of the RV free wall. The analysis time for TAPSE and FAC was significantly shorter for the AI compared to the Human (14±4 seconds vs. 101±21 seconds, p&lt;0.001). Figure 1 shows that there was a significant correlation between TAPSE and FAC measurements made by AI and Human (R=0.66 and 0.64, p&lt;0.001), but there was a mean bias of 3.3 mm (±23.7 mm) for TAPSE and 3.9% (±16.7%) for FAC between the two methods.

Conclusions
The AI-based application demonstrated good feasibility and significantly reduced analysis time for measuring TAPSE and FAC in patients referred for diagnostic evaluation of heart failure. However, the measurement bias between AI and Human was not negligible, warranting further investigation to determine the cause of this discrepancy and whether this AI-based application is an alternative to the manual method for assessing RV function.
Mechanical dyssynchrony combined with septal scarring reliably identifies responders to cardiac resynchronization therapy
Authors: Duchenne J , Larsen C K , Galli E , Aalen J M , Cvijic M , Klop B , Sirnes P A , Mirea O , Puvrez A , Penicka M , Hopp E , Bogaert J , Smiseth O A , Donal E , Voigt J U 
Published: June 2023

Abstract

Funding Acknowledgements
Type of funding sources: Foundation. Main funding source(s): Research Foundation Flanders (FWO).

Background
The presence of mechanical dyssynchrony on echocardiography is associated with reverse remodeling after cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). In contrast, recent studies suggest that presence of myocardial scarring – particularly in the septal wall – reduces the effect of CRT. Recently, a combined assessment of mechanical dyssynchrony and septal wall scarring has demonstrated high predictive power for CRT response. However, a direct comparison of different markers of mechanical dyssynchrony has not yet been performed.

Aim
This study: (I) investigated how well a combined assessment of different markers of mechanical dyssynchrony and septal scarring identifies responders to CRT, and (II) evaluated potential differences in predictive power.

Methods
In a prospective multicentre study in 170 CRT recipients, septal flash (SF) or apical rocking (ApRock), systolic stretch index (SSI) and lateral-to-septal (LW-S) work difference were assessed on echocardiography. SSI was calculated from longitudinal strain traces of the four-chamber view as the sum of the septal systolic stretch and lateral systolic pre-stretch before aortic valve closure. The LW-S work difference was calculated from the regional work of the lateral wall and septal wall - considering the averaged work from the basal- and mid-ventricular segments in the apical four-chamber view. Myocardial scarring of the septum was quantified on cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) images (n=125 patients), or excluded based on a coronary angiogram and clinical history (n=45 patients). Myocardial scarring was reported regionally as percentage of total amount of scarred tissue per wall. The study’s endpoint was CRT response, defined as ≥15% reduction in LV end-systolic volume 12 months after CRT implantation. AUC’s from ROC curves were used to investigate the predictive power of the different markers for CRT response.

Results
The AUC’s for the combined assessment of the markers of mechanical dyssynchrony and septal scarring as predictor of CRT-response were 0.86 (95% CI: 0.79–0.91) for presence of SF or ApRock, 0.81 (95% CI: 0.74–0.88) for SSI, and 0.84 (95% CI: 0.76–0.90) for LW-S work difference (all p&lt;0.0001). No significant difference was observed between the different markers of mechanical dyssynchrony (p&gt;0.05 between all).

Conclusions
The combined assessment of mechanical dyssynchrony and septal scarring identified CRT responders with high predictive power. Both visual and quantitative markers demonstrated similar results. Our data demonstrates the importance of assessing LV mechanics and scarring in CRT-candidates, which can easily be achieved in clinical routine.
Calcium scoring on coronary computed angiography with photon-counting technology: predictors of performance
Authors: Vecsey-Nagy M , Varga-Szemes Á , Tilman E , Kolossvary M , Boussoussou M , Vattay B , Schmidt B , Vertes M , Balogh H , Nagy N , Kerkovits N , Simon J , Merkely B , Maurovich-Horvat P , Szilveszter B 
Published: June 2023

Abstract

Funding Acknowledgements
Type of funding sources: None.

Background
Spectral CT imaging and virtual non-contrast (VNC) reconstruction techniques allow coronary artery calcium score (CACS) calculations from coronary CT angiography (CCTA) datasets. A novel virtual material decomposition algorithm (PureCalcium, PC) developed for photon-counting detector CT (PCD-CT) yields the potential of further increasing the accuracy of CCTA-based CACS measurements, however, little is known about the means of optimizing its performance for routine Agatston-scoring.

Purpose
The aim of the current study was to determine the predictors of the performance of a novel virtual non-iodine algorithm for PCD-CT.

Materials and Methods
Calcium scoring on non-enhanced scans is predominantly used as a complementary examination to CCTA increasing both acquisition time and radiation dose, thus, acquiring accurate CACS from CCTA datasets are warranted. In the current study, CACS and CAC volumes were calculated using true non-contrast (TNC) images and PC reconstructions in 139 consecutive patients (61.5 ± 10.9 years, 41.7% female) undergoing clinically indicated CCTA. Relative differences (TNC–PC/TNC) of PC-based CACS calculations from non-enhanced scans was calculated for each patient. Predictors of the degree of discrepancy were determined using linear regression analysis.

Results
Overall, BMI and heart rate did not affect the accuracy of PC measurements. However, the application of a higher tube voltage (140 kVp instead of 120 kVp) significantly decreased the relative difference of PC-based measurements from TNC values (β=-0.33 [95%CI: −0.64 – −0.03]). Furthermore, the average volume/lesion ratio also proved to be an independent predictor of performance (β=-0.01 [95%CI: −0.02 – −0.004]).

Conclusions
Spectral imaging based PC reconstructions may substitute conventional calcium scoring for a selected population of patients. It seems plausible that its performance can be improved by increased tube voltage protocols, provided spectral information gathered from CTA datasets is enhanced by using 140 kVp. It must be noted that the accuracy of PC may be hindered for smaller calcified lesions.
Differences in access to social capital across societies
Authors: Otero Gabriel , Völker Beate , Rözer Jesper , Mollenhorst Gerald 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
This paper explores country-level macro-structural conditions that are associated with social capital, measured as individuals’ access to social resources. To explain differences in social capital across societies, we formulate hypotheses based on welfare state generosity, cultural orientations (collectivism vs. individualism), and income inequality. We test our hypotheses using data from the International Social Survey Programme (ISSP) 2017, which comprises a total sample size of 50,010 individuals living in 33 countries. We use the position generator survey instrument to build two composite measures of social capital: the diversity and the socio-economic status of social contacts. Multilevel regression models reveal that diversity of social contacts is generally greater among individuals in countries with generous welfare states, while access to contacts of a higher socio-economic status is generally better among individuals in countries with higher levels of individualism. A country’s income inequality is not associated with the social capital of its citizens. However, the association between a person’s socioeconomic status and the diversity of their social capital is moderated by income inequality. As such, our study serves to demonstrate that macro-social conditions at the country level do influence individual social capital and have different implications depending on the dimension considered.
How Does Exposure to Dementia Relate to Subjective Cognition? A Systematic Review
Authors: Turner Jennifer R , Hill Nikki L , Brautigam Leslie , Bhargava Sakshi , Mogle Jacqueline 
Published: June 2023

Abstract

Background and Objectives
Subjective cognitive decline (SCD) may be indicative of future objective cognitive decline. However, factors other than objective cognitive performance may influence SCD. This review addresses whether family history or close, nonfamilial exposure to dementia is associated with self-reported SCD.

Research Design and Methods
Searches were conducted in PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and the Dissertations and Theses database. Eligible articles included measures of self-reported cognition for community-dwelling middle-aged or older adults (40+ years) not diagnosed with dementia, and who had either a family history of dementia, a family member, spouse, or close friend with dementia. The quality of evidence was evaluated using the LEGEND Appraisal Tool. Evidence was synthesized narratively.

Results
A total of 32 articles were included, with 28 rated as good quality. Across studies, the relationship between dementia exposure and SCD was inconsistent. A significant association between exposure and SCD was found in 6 studies; however, 17 reviewed studies found no evidence of a relationship. The remaining 9 studies found mixed associations. Modifying factors that could potentially influence these associations were exploratorily identified among studies to provide context to our results. These factors included dementia worry, emotional closeness, and measurement sensitivity.

Discussion and Implications
Findings of this review suggest that both first-degree relatives and spouses of persons with dementia may have an increased likelihood of reporting SCD, although the current heterogeneity in definitions of exposure to dementia and SCD may influence these findings. In addition to the relationship between dementia exposure and SCD, future research should examine potential modifiers, including meaning attributed to exposure, as identifying how these perceptions affect cognition may promote early intervention.
Analysis of Technical Repeat Studies in Screening Mammography
Authors: Martaindale Sarah , Moseley Tanya , Santiago Lumarie , Huang Monica , Sullivan Callie , Bassett Roland L , Whitman Gary 
Published: June 2023

Abstract

Objective
To identify causes of technical repeats, determine whether differences exist between mobile and fixed mammography units, and evaluate the rate of improvement on repeat imaging.

Methods
IRB approval was obtained for retrospective review of Enhancing Quality Using the Inspection Program (EQUIP) logs of screening mammography technical repeats performed from March 2017 to December 2018 at a hospital breast imaging center and from April 2017 to December 2018 on mobile mammography units. Frequency tables and Fisher’s exact tests were used for statistical analysis.

Results
Technical deficiencies were reported in 483 cases and reviewed by two or three auditors. Auditors identified no technical deficiencies in 31 cases, which were excluded. The remaining 452 cases were assigned a technical recall category: motion, positioning/excluded tissue, skin folds, artifacts, undercompression, or contrast (under/overexposure). Motion was the most common technical recall category (253/452, 56.0%). Positioning/excluded tissue was the second most common reason (150/452, 33.2%). Statistically significant differences in technical deficiencies were identified between mammograms performed on mobile versus fixed mammography units for motion (94/143, 65.7% vs 159/309, 51.5%, respectively, P = 0.0058), skin folds (16/143, 11.2% vs 15/309, 4.8%, respectively, P = 0.02), and positioning/excluded tissue (30/143, 21% vs 120/309, 38.8%, respectively, P = 0.00016). Most recalls improved with repeat imaging (auditor 1: 451/483, 93% and auditor 2: 387/483, 80%).

Conclusion
Motion and positioning/excluded tissue are the most common reasons for screening mammography technical recalls. The reasons for technical recall differ between patients imaged on mobile and fixed mammography units, likely because of differences in each location’s patient population.
The Medieval Prosodic Orthography of the Tiberian Masoretic Reading Tradition
Authors: Pitcher Sophia L 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
The medieval accentual notations of the Tiberian Masoretic Reading Tradition (TMRT), known as the ṭaʿămē hammiqrå̄, guide the reader in the proper intonement of the Hebrew Bible. Since Dresher’s groundbreaking 1994 article, scholars of the ṭaʿămē hammiqrå̄ have increasingly understood the system to exhibit features corresponding to the prosodic phrase structure of speech. However, the lack of a suitable theoretical framework for analysing and interpreting the ṭaʿămē hammiqrå̄ has greatly hindered research on the system, leaving it largely opaque. This article presents conclusions from Pitcher (2020), a study undertaken to investigate the possibility that the correspondences identified by Dresher may point to a more significant correlation between the ṭaʿămē hammiqrå̄ and modern prosodic descriptions than has been previously considered. In this article the ṭaʿămē hammiqrå̄ are introduced as a prosodic orthography of liturgical Tiberian Hebrew and a wholly linguistic model grounded in the discipline of prosodic phonology is proposed.
Tractable depth-bounded approximations to FDE and its satellites
Authors: D’Agostino Marcello , Solares-Rojas Alejandro 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
FDE, LP and $\mathbf {K_{3}}$ are closely related to each other and admit of an intuitive informational interpretation. However, all these logics are co-NP complete, and so idealized models of how an agent can think. We address this issue by shifting to signed formulae, where the signs express imprecise values associated with two bipartitions of the corresponding set of standard values. We present proof systems whose operational rules are all linear and have only two structural branching rules that express a generalized Principle of Bivalence. Each of these systems leads to defining an infinite hierarchy of tractable approximations to the respective logic, in terms of the maximum number of allowed nested applications of the two branching rules. Further, each resulting hierarchy admits of an intuitive 5-valued non-deterministic semantics.
The Self-Simulational Theory of temporal extension
Authors: Bellingrath Jan Erik 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Subjective experience is experience in time. Unfolding in a continuous river of moments, our experience, however, consists not only in the changing phenomenological content per se but, further, in additional retrodiction and prospection of the moments that immediately preceded and followed it. It is in this way that William James’s ‘specious present’ presents itself as extending between the past and future. While the phenomenology of temporality always happens, in normal waking states, to someone, and the notions of self-representation and temporal experience have continuously been associated with each other, there has not yet been an explicit account of their relationship. In this paper, the emergence of the subjective experience of temporal extension will be conceived of as arising out of a difference-relation between counterfactual and actual self-representations. After presenting the proposed relationship on both a conceptual level and a formalized and neuronally realistic level of description using information theory, convergent empirical evidence from general findings about temporal experience and inference, altered states of consciousness, and mental illness is examined. The Self-Simulational Theory of temporal extension is able to explain systematic variations in the subjectively experienced length of the temporal Now across numerous domains and holds potentially wide implications for the neuroscience of consciousness, as well as for a deeper understanding of different forms of mental illness.