bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Analysis on the impact of recycled ceramic waste, fiber format, and manufacturing techniques on polymer composite properties
Authors: Sakthi Balan G , Prakash B , Aravind Raj S , Karthik S , Mohan Kumar V 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
Dumping of construction waste is a growing issue in current situation and recycling and reusing are the suitable solutions for solving it. This effort aims to recycle and reuse of ceramic construction waste. This work examines the effects of inclusion of waste tile powder, change in the glass fiber form which was used as a reinforcement, and method of manufacturing method the polymer composite on the properties of the composite. Normal glass-reinforced polymer composites have good tensile, flexural, and toughness properties. The three forms of glass fibers used for the study includes, chopped fiber mat, glass fiber mesh, and woven glass fiber. Fillers are added to improve hardness and tribology related attributes. Composite fabrication was carried out by conventional hand layup, room temperature compression molding, and hot compression molding process. The goal is to harden the composite without reducing the tensile strength of the composite. ASTM D3039, ASTM D2240, and ASTM D570–98 procedures were adapted for measuring tensile, hardness and water intake properties respectively. Characterization was done through SEM image analysis. A result of 160.21 MPa tensile strength, Shore D hardness value of 96.7, and water absorption of 0.71 percent after 24 h of testing was recorded. Adding waste tile powder to the polymer composite increases its hardness and reduces surface defects without affecting tensile properties. Fiber form and manufacturing method also affect the output to some extent. The effect of water absorption on the hardness property of the composite was checked and found to be negligible which makes it durable and reliable to be used in moist environments. This composite can be used in automotive parts, moist environment, window and door frames, and in electrical panels.
Influence of process variables on wear testing of aluminium-silicon/multi-walled carbon nanotubes nanocomposites
Authors: T Shivaramu H , U Vignesh Nayak , K S Umashankar 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
Design of experiments and analysis of variance techniques have been used in the current study to examine the wear behavior of aluminum-silicon/multi-walled carbon nanotubes nanocomposite. Variables that are considered for the assessment of wear included multi-walled carbon nanotubes concentration, applied load, operating speed, distance traversed, and temperature. Results have shown that the 0.5 wt.% multi-walled carbon nanotubes reinforced aluminum-silicon alloy had the highest wear resistance. Systematic examination of variables showed that the applied load is the dominating factor that influenced the wear behavior. The improved wear resistance of the nanocomposite was found due to the reinforcement of the multi-walled carbon nanotube.
The Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Patients Experiencing Family Violence Presenting to an Australian Health Service
Authors: Collins Melinda , Crowe Marianne , Cleak Helen , Kallianis Voula , Braddy Lisa 
Published: October 2022

AbstractThe Social Work Department of a large Australian health service has led an organisation-wide risk identification reporting system providing oversight of family violence cases. The availability of this data offered a unique opportunity for robust evidence collection of the victim survivor experience, and the clinical response, over an eight-month period during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The audit of family violence notifications and clinical notes (n = 283) identified 36 per cent of cases were impacted by pandemic-related factors. Psychological (69 per cent) and physical abuse (64 per cent) were the most identified forms of family violence. Multiple pandemic-related stressors were evident, including financial stress (38 per cent), housing instability (27 per cent) and unemployment (22 per cent). Telehealth was seen as both an opportunity for further control by perpetrators as well as a strategy to stay connected with at risk and isolated patients. Two focus groups with clinical staff (n = 16) described evidence of an increased shared sense of responsibility amongst multidisciplinary colleagues towards family violence presentations during COVID-19. The findings contribute to emerging knowledge about risks and barriers impacting victim survivors during disasters, such as pandemics, and offer strategies for improving practice. Findings highlight the important role of social workers in data collection and analysis to inform their practice.
Anterior dorsal attention network tau drives visual attention deficits in posterior cortical atrophy
Authors: Katsumi Yuta , Putcha Deepti , Eckbo Ryan , Wong Bonnie , Quimby Megan , McGinnis Scott , Touroutoglou Alexandra , Dickerson Bradford C 
Published: October 2022

AbstractPosterior cortical atrophy (PCA), usually an atypical clinical syndrome of Alzheimer’s disease, has well-characterized patterns of cortical atrophy and tau deposition that are distinct from typical amnestic presentations of Alzheimer’s disease. However, the mechanisms underlying the cortical spread of tau in PCA remain unclear. Here, in a sample of 17 biomarker-confirmed (A+/T+/N+) individuals with PCA, we sought to identify functional networks with heightened vulnerability to tau pathology by examining the cortical distribution of elevated tau as measured by 18F-flortaucipir (FTP) PET. We then assessed the relationship between network-specific FTP uptake and visuospatial cognitive task performance. As predicted, we found consistent and prominent localization of tau pathology in the dorsal attention network and visual network of the cerebral cortex. Elevated FTP uptake within the dorsal attention network (particularly the ratio of FTP uptake between the anterior and posterior nodes) was associated with poorer visuospatial attention in PCA; associations were also identified in other functional networks, although to a weaker degree. Furthermore, using functional MRI data collected from each patient at wakeful rest, we found that a greater anterior-to-posterior ratio in FTP uptake was associated with stronger intrinsic functional connectivity between anterior and posterior nodes of the dorsal attention network. Taken together, we conclude that our cross-sectional marker of anterior-to-posterior FTP ratio could indicate tau propagation from posterior to anterior dorsal attention network nodes, and that this anterior progression occurs in relation to intrinsic functional connectivity within this network critical for visuospatial attention. Our findings help to clarify the spatiotemporal pattern of tau propagation in relation to visuospatial cognitive decline and highlight the key role of the dorsal attention network in the disease progression of PCA.
COVID-19 community pantries as community health engagement: the case of Maginhawa community pantry in the Philippines
Authors: Abesamis Luis Emmanuel A , Suarez Charles Anthony P , Rivera Mary Louise B , Montevirgen Natasha Denise S , Cleofas Jerome V 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated and surfaced long-standing inadequacies in the country’s health and social systems. In response to the Philippine government’s inefficient and ineffective COVID-19 response and their dismissal of the calls for accountability, Filipinos at the barangay level organized community pantries to respond to the needs of the community. Using WHO’s Framework for Community Health Engagement, this study positions community pantries as a unique health phenomenon during the COVID-19 pandemic within the Philippine context. This study explores the ways that the Maginhawa Community Pantry—the critical case study—addresses both emergent and pre-existing health needs among Filipinos during the COVID-19 pandemic. By examining community pantries from the perspective of the Maginhawa Community Pantry organizer, this paper elucidates how community pantries engage in diverse initiatives that: (1) mobilize the community for health, (2) improve access to healthcare, (3) ensure community collaboration and (4) call for collective action for systemic issues. The findings of this paper highlight the capacity and potential of community pantries as a health response beyond the COVID-19 pandemic and address gaps in the Philippine healthcare system.
Case series of mobile structures detected vividly by using superb microvascular imaging
Authors: Demura Yutaka , Amano Masashi , Yanagi Yoshiki , Mizumoto Ayaka , Jo Yoshito , Izumi Chisato 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Background
Superb microvascular imaging (SMI) is a new imaging technique that can reveal low-velocity blood flow without use of a contrast agent. SMI is based on an original algorithm and effectively removes tissue motion artifacts (clutter motion) from the background, thereby preserving visibility of low-velocity blood flow. SMI is expected to be useful for the evaluation of heart diseases, as well as blood vessels.

Case summary
Here, we report three cases in which a mobile structure in the heart or a blood vessel was detected easily by strong enhancement on SMI. In the heart, the entire mass was strongly enhanced by colour-SMI and had the appearance of ‘a fire ball’. In the abdominal aorta and carotid artery, SMI captured a strongly enhanced echo image of a mass and revealed hyperechoic mobile plaque. It was hard to detect with the conventional echocardiography.

Discussion
It is important to detect mobile intravascular and intracardiac structures as they are risk factors of thrombosis. Echo images are often strongly affected by the skill of the examiner, the patient's body habitus, and the presence of intestinal gas; thus, it is often difficult to detect a small mass with conventional echocardiography. With the use of SMI, even small mobile structures can be displayed at high intensity in comparison with the surrounding blood flow. Therefore, the non-invasive SMI was useful for the detection of mobile intravascular and intracardiac structures. Our findings of the current report may lead to new developments in SMI for imaging in the cardiac region.
Efficacy of simulation-based training on transoesophageal echocardiography learning in a multicentre randomised controlled trial: SIMULATOR study
Authors: Pezel T , Dreyfus J , Mouhat B , Thebaut C , Audureau E , Bernard A , Lavie Badie Y , Bohbot Y , Fard D , Biere L , Le Ven F , Fauvel C , Donal E , Mansencal N , Coisne A 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Background
Evidence on the impact of simulation-based training in transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is scarce.

Purpose
We aimed to assess the efficacy of simulation-based versus traditional teaching on TEE knowledge and skills for cardiology residents.

Methods
Between November 2020 and November 2021, all consecutive cardiology residents inexperienced from TEE were randomised (1:1, n=324) through 42 French University Centers into two groups with or without simulation support (either a simulation group or a traditional group). The coprimary outcomes were the scores in the final theoretical and practical tests 3 months after the training. TEE duration and the feelings of residents were also assessed. An economic analysis was also performed.

Results
While the theoretical and practical test scores were similar between the two groups before the training (respectively P=0.80 and P=0.51), the residents in the simulation group displayed higher theoretical test and practical test scores after the training than those in the traditional group (respectively 47.2±15.6% vs. 38.3±19.8%, P&lt;0.0001 and 74.5±17.7% vs. 59.0±25.1%, P&lt;0.0001). Subgroups analyses showed that the efficacy of the simulation training was even greater when performed at the beginning of residency (P&lt;0.0001). After the training, the duration to perform a complete TEE was significantly lower in the simulation group than in the traditional group (respectively 8.3±1.4 min vs. 9.4±1.2 min, P&lt;0.0001). Finally, residents' feelings were better in the simulation group than in the traditional group across all components (P&lt;0.0001). Compared to the traditional group, the average additional cost per resident of the simulation program was respectively €1,785, €942 or €662 for 20, 40 and 60 residents.

Conclusion
Simulation-based teaching on TEE showed a significant improvement in knowledge, skills, and feelings of cardiology residents as well as a reduction in the duration to complete the examination.

Funding Acknowledgement
Type of funding sources: None.
Incremental value of left atrial strain to predict atrial fibrillation recurrence after cryoballoon ablation
Authors: Motoc A , Luchian M L , Scheirlynck E , Roosens B , Chameleva H , Galloo X , Von Kemp B , Ramak R , Sieira J , De Asmundis C , Chierchia G B , Magne J , Weytjens C , Droogmans S , Cosyns B 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Background
Cryoballoon ablation (CBA) has emerged a one of the safest and efficient therapeutic options for atrial fibrillation (AF) [1]. However, AF recurrence rate after CBA remains as high as 25–30%, leading to increased rates of complications and repeated procedures [2]. Left atrial (LA) structural remodeling, defined as LA dilation has been proposed as a predictor of AF recurrence after CBA [2]. However, LA mechanical dysfunction might appear even before the LA enlargement and might be a more sensitive prognostic indicator of AF recurrence [3–5]. The early recognition of LA dysfunction might play a key role in identifying patients at higher risk of AF recurrence after CBA, even in patients without a dilated LA.

Purpose
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the additional value of LA function, assessed using speckle tracking echocardiography to predict AF recurrence after CBA.

Methods
Consecutive patients with paroxysmal/persistent AF undergoing CBA were prospectively included. Echocardiography was performed before CBA, according to standard recommendations. Blanking period was defined as the first three months post-ablation. The primary endpoint was AF recurrence after the blanking period.

Results
One hundred seventy two patients (62.2±12.2 years, 61% male) were included in the analysis. During the follow-up period of 11.7±1.6 months, 50 (29%) patients had AF recurrence. In the overall study population, peak atrial longitudinal strain (PALS) ≤17% had the highest incremental predictive value for AF recurrence (HR=9.45, 95% CI: 3.17–28.13, chi-square to improve 37% increase, p&lt;0.001) (Figure 1). In patients with non-dilated LA (119 (69.1%) patients), AF recurrence occurred in 24 (20.2%) patients. In this category of patients, PALS ≤17% remained an independent predictor of AF recurrence (HR=5.39, 95% CI: 1.66–17.52, p=0.005).

Conclusions
This study showed that LA function assessed by PALS provided an additional predictive value for AF recurrence after CBA, over LA enlargement. In patients with non-dilated LA, PALS remained an independent predictor of AF recurrence. These findings emphasize the added value of LA strain, suggesting that it should be implemented in the systematic evaluation of the AF patients before CBA.

Funding Acknowledgement
Type of funding sources: Public hospital(s). Main funding source(s): Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel - Wetenschappelijk Fonds Willy Geps of the UZ Brussel
Right ventricular longitudinal contractility mismatch: a novel diagnostic marker of right ventricular arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Bocchino P P , Frea S , Angelini F , Gravinese C , Gallone G , Clivio A , Toso E , Giustetto C , De Ferrari G M 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Background
The structural alterations of arrhythmogenic right ventricular (RV) cardiomyopathy (ARVC) mainly involve the RV outflow tract (RVOT), but RVOT systolic function has been poorly investigated.

Purpose
We aimed to evaluate the Doppler Velocity Ratio (DVR) as a novel echocardiographic parameter for ARVC diagnosis.

Methods
30 consecutive ARVC adult patients, 45 asymptomatic healthy volunteers and 45 consecutive patients with RV dysfunction due to ARVC mimics were prospectively enrolled between May 2019 and December 2021 and received complete transthoracic echocardiography examinations. The DVR was calculated as the ratio of RV free wall systolic velocity to RVOT systolic velocity at Doppler tissue imaging. The main study outcomes were to compare the DVR among ARVC patients, healthy controls, and mimics and to assess its diagnostic value in ARVC.

Results
120 patients were included. Mean age was 55±17 years; 46 (38.3%) patients were female. The DVR was significantly higher in ARVC subjects (1.59±0.41) compared to both healthy controls (1.16±0.14, P&lt;0.001) and mimics (1.17±0.23, P&lt;0.001), but similar between healthy controls and mimics (P=1.000). The DVR cut-off value with the highest accuracy for ARVC diagnosis was 1.33 (sensitivity=80.0%, specificity=86.7%). The area under the curve of DVR alone was significantly superior to that of the major echocardiographic 2010 Task Force Criteria (0.833 vs 0.672 respectively, P=0.034). The net reclassification improvement for DVR alone against the major echocardiographic 2010 Task Force Criteria was 32.2% (P=0.023).

Conclusions
The DVR is a simple novel echocardiographic parameter with high accuracy for ARVC diagnosis.

Funding Acknowledgement
Type of funding sources: None.
Pathophysiological mechanisms and prognostic implications of right atrial reservoir strain in patients with heart failure
Authors: Stassen J , Galloo X , Hirasawa K , Van Der Bijl P , Marsan N A , Bax J J B 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Background
Renal and hepatic dysfunction complicate the treatment course of patients with heart failure and negatively affect outcomes. Because the right atrium functions as a reservoir between the right ventricle and the venous circulation, a reduced right atrial compliance may enhance venous congestion, thereby promoting worsening renal function and hepatic congestion.

Purpose
To evaluate the association between RA reservoir strain (RS) and end-organ dysfunction (renal dysfunction and hepatic congestion), as well as survival in patients with advanced HF.

Methods
RARS was evaluated with speckle-tracking echocardiography in patients with advanced HF (i.e. left ventricular ejection fraction &lt;35% and persistent symptoms of HF despite optimal medical therapy). Linear regression analysis was used to investigate the association between RARS and renal function (i.e. estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR]) and hepatic congestion (i.e. gamma-glutamyl transferase [GGT]). Patients were followed-up for all-cause mortality.

Results
A total of 917 patients (mean age 65±11 years, 76% male) were included. Age, male sex, atrial fibrillation, larger left atrial and right ventricular dimensions and right ventricular systolic dysfunction were all associated with lower RARS values. On multivariable analysis (adjusting for age, sex, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, body mass index, ischemic etiology, atrial fibrillation, QRS duration, left ventricular end-diastolic volume, left ventricular ejection fraction, left atrial volume index, RV basal diameter and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion), RARS was independently associated with eGFR (β 0.076; 95% CI 0.012 to 0.367; p=0.037) and GGT (β −0.122; 95% CI −1.800 to −0.034; p=0.038). On multivariable Cox regression analysis, adjusting for baseline clinical and echocardiographic variables, RARS was independently associated with all-cause mortality (HR 0.984; 95% CI 0.972 to 0.996; p=0.008) (Figure 1 and Table).

Conclusion
Reduced RARS is independently associated with renal dysfunction and hepatic congestion. In addition, RARS is independently associated with mortality. Consequently, RARS may be useful for the risk-stratification of patients with HF.

Funding Acknowledgement
Type of funding sources: Other. Main funding source(s): ESC Training Grant App000064741
Clinical significance of myocardial work parameters after acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Coisne A , Fourdinier V , Lemesle G , Delsart P , Aghezzaf S , Lamblin N , Schurtz G , Verdier B , Ninni S , Seunes C , Coppin A , Donal E , Scotti A , Bauters C , Montaigne D 
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Background
To date, there is little data regarding the clinical significance of myocardial work (MW) parameters after a stable period following acute myocardial infarction (AMI).

Purpose
To investigate the additional prognostic value of MW parameters following AMI.

Methods
Between 2018 and 2020, 244 patients admitted in cardiac intensive care unit of a university hospital for AMI were included. One-month following AMI, a comprehensive transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) was performed to assess parameters of myocardial function. Patients were then followed for major events (ME): cardiovascular death, heart failure and unplanned coronary revascularisation.

Results
At 1 month, half of the population was symptomatic (NYHA≥II), and medical therapy was almost optimized (ACEi/ARB in 95.5%, beta-blockers in 96.3%, DAPT in 94.7% and statins in 97.1%). After a median follow-up of 681 [IQR 538–840] days, ME occurred in 26 patients (10.7%). Patients presenting ME were older (65.5±14.2 vs. 58.1±12.1 years, P=0.005) with higher prevalence of hypertension (65.4 vs. 36.2%, P=0.004), more impaired LV function as assessed by left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (P=0.07), global longitudinal strain (GLS) (P=0.03) or MW parameters (P=0.01 for global work efficiency (GWE)), and greater LV and LA dilations (P=0.06 for LVEDVi and P=0.03 for LAVi). After adjustment, GWE was the only TTE parameter independently associated with long-term occurrence of ME (P=0.02). A GWE value &lt;91% was selected to identify patients at higher ME risk (HR 95% CI) = 2.94 (1.36–6.35), P=0.0041) (Figure 1 & 2).

Conclusion
Lower GWE at 1 month after AMI is independently associated with higher ME rates. A GWE &lt;91% can improve the post-AMI patient risk stratification.

Funding Acknowledgement
Type of funding sources: None.