Tracking Imaging Research Articles

Advanced Intraprocedural Image Guidance for Endovascular Aortic and Branch-Vessel Procedures Using the Intraoperative Positioning System (IOPS)

AbstractEndovascular aortic repair has transformed the treatment of aortic pathologies, providing minimally invasive alternatives to traditional open surgery. Despite these advancements, endovascular procedures continue to encounter substantial challenges, including navigating tortuous and calcified vessels, precise catheterization of the aortic branch vessels in complex cases, and the significant risks of radiation exposure to both patients and operators. Recent innovations in electromagnetic (EM) tracking and 3D imaging offer a promising alternative to traditional methods. This review focuses on the Intraoperative Positioning System (IOPS), a novel EM-based image guidance system developed by Centerline Biomedical, Inc. (Cleveland, OH). IOPS uses sensorized, EM-tracked devices to enhance procedural precision and safety by minimizing reliance on ionizing radiation while improving visualization and the accuracy of catheterization in vascular anatomies. This technology enables parts of the procedure to be performed without the need for ionizing radiation, offering a safer and more efficient approach to endovascular procedures.

Speckle Tracking Echocardiography-Based Correlation Between Left Atrial Strain and Functional Capacity in Patients With Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy.

The left atrium (LA) dilates and its function decreases as a chronic secondary change in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). LA strain is a more sensitive measure of LV filling pressure than LA volume and can be used to predict the functional capacity in HCM. To analyze LA strain in patients with HCM and its correlation with exercise tolerance. A total of 113 patients with HCM were enrolled. All patients underwent detailed clinical evaluation, 24-h Holter monitoring, exercise stress testing, two-dimensional echocardiography with LA strain analysis using speckle tracking imaging. Assessment of functional capacity was done in terms of metabolic equivalents (METs). HCM patients with METS >6.0 were included in Group A while those with METS ≤6.0 were included Group B. Correlation of various parameters of LA strain (left atrial reservoir strain [LASr], left atrial conduit strain [LAScd], and left atrial contraction strain [LASct]) was done with functional capacity. The mean age of the study population was 47±10.77 years with the majority of them being males (71.9%). Group B patients had significantly lower LASr (12.95%±8.61% vs. 22.16%±16%; p<0.001), LAScd (-7.28%±6.29% vs. -12.74%±8.40%; p<0.001), and LASct (-7.44±4.46 vs. -11.19±6.53; p<0.001). Multivariable linear regression analysis reported LASr to be an independent predictor of METs and had a quadratic relationship with log-odds with negative linear and positive quadratic coefficients. LASr was the strongest echocardiographic predictor of reduced METS with an AUC of 0.78 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.68-0.88), sensitivity of 71.8%, and specificity of 82.9%. LA strain parameters are associated with functional capacity in patients with HCM with lower LA strain values being associated with poor functional capacity.

Sports Image Feature Extraction Based on Machine Learning and Global Search Algorithm

This study utilizes a combination of machine learning and a global search algorithm to enhance the quality of feature extraction in sports images. A deep residual generative adversarial network is employed to deblur images and sharpen their clarity, while the optimized particle swarm optimization algorithm is utilized to extract image features with precision and identify critical information. According to the experimental results, the research method improves the peak signal-to-noise ratios in ball sports image deblurring by 12.45%, 13.91%, and 17.18%, respectively, and in track and field sports image deblurring by 11.71%, 12.91%, and 21.61%, respectively, when compared with the generative adversarial network, generative adversarial network incorporating the attention mechanism, and multi-scale convolution-based algorithm. The accuracy-recall curve of the particle swarm algorithm that has been optimised for research completely encircles the accuracy-recall curves of the other four algorithms, which verifies the efficacy of the research methodology. The research will offer a more comprehensive perspective on sports image processing.

SiamRhic: Improved Cross-Correlation and Ranking Head-Based Siamese Network for Object Tracking in Remote Sensing Videos

Object tracking in remote sensing videos is a challenging task in computer vision. Recent advances in deep learning have sparked significant interest in tracking algorithms based on Siamese neural networks. However, many existing algorithms fail to deliver satisfactory performance in complex scenarios due to challenging conditions and limited computational resources. Thus, enhancing tracking efficiency and improving algorithm responsiveness in complex scenarios are crucial. To address tracking drift caused by similar objects and background interference in remote sensing image tracking, we propose an enhanced Siamese network based on the SiamRhic architecture, incorporating a cross-correlation and ranking head for improved object tracking. We first use convolutional neural networks for feature extraction and integrate the CBAM (Convolutional Block Attention Module) to enhance the tracker’s representational capacity, allowing it to focus more effectively on the objects. Additionally, we replace the original depth-wise cross-correlation operation with asymmetric convolution, enhancing both speed and performance. We also introduce a ranking loss to reduce the classification confidence of interference objects, addressing the mismatch between classification and regression. We validate the proposed algorithm through experiments on the OTB100, UAV123, and OOTB remote sensing datasets. Specifically, SiamRhic achieves success, normalized precision, and precision rates of 0.533, 0.786, and 0.812, respectively, on the OOTB benchmark. The OTB100 benchmark achieves a success rate of 0.670 and a precision rate of 0.892. Similarly, in the UAV123 benchmark, SiamRhic achieves a success rate of 0.621 and a precision rate of 0.823. These results demonstrate the algorithm’s high precision and success rates, highlighting its practical value.

The tensile behaviour of paper under high loading rates

AbstractThis work deals with the strain-rate dependent characterization of paper under uniaxial tension at high strain-rates. Experiments were performed involving a Split Hopkinson bar for high strain-rate testing, comparing the results with conventional quasi-static tests. Tests were conducted in a strain-rate range between 0.0083 and 212 s−1, which is equivalent to testing velocities between 0.0003 and roughly 13.6 m/s. For the first time the change in tensile behaviour of paper is comprehensively characterized and modelled, using the Cowper-Symonds model for strain-rate hardening. The experimental tests showed that the tensile strength as well as the initial stiffness were gradually increasing with increasing strain-rate. The increase in tensile strength between the lowest and the highest strain-rate was 58% on average whereas the mean increase in stiffness between these two strain-rates was almost 115%. Regarding the fracture strain, it was observed that it significantly decreases with increasing strain-rate. While the average fracture strain of the quasi-static tests was at roughly 6% it was close to 3% for the dynamic tests. In case of the Split Hopkinson bar tests, high-speed videos of the samples were made to determine their elongation via target tracking and digital image correlation (DIC). We found that strain localization, which is a highly relevant mechanism for quasi-static tensile failure, is likely related to short term plastic creep of the material as strain localization nearly entirely disappears at high loading rates of paper.

Optical coherence tomography enables longitudinal evaluation of cell graft-directed remodeling in stroke lesions.

Stem cell grafting can promote glial repair of adult stroke injuries during the subacute wound healing phase, but graft survival and glial repair outcomes are perturbed by lesion severity and mode of injury. To better understand how stroke lesion environments alter the functions of cell grafts, we employed optical coherence tomography (OCT) to longitudinally image mouse cortical photothrombotic ischemic strokes treated with allogeneic neural progenitor cell (NPC) grafts. OCT angiography, signal intensity, and signal decay resulting from optical scattering were assessed at multiple timepoints across two weeks in mice receiving an NPC graft or an injection of saline at two days after stroke. OCT scattering information revealed pronounced axial lesion contraction that naturally occurred throughout the subacute wound healing phase that was not modified by either NPC or saline treatment. By analyzing OCT signal intensity along the coronal plane, we observed dramatic contraction of the cortex away from the imaging window in the first week after stroke which impaired conventional OCT angiography but which enabled the detection of NPC graft-induced glial repair. There was moderate, but variable, NPC graft survival at photothrombotic strokes at two weeks which was inversely correlated with acute stroke lesion sizes as measured by OCT prior to treatment, suggesting a prognostic role for OCT imaging and reinforcing the dominant effect of lesion size and severity on graft outcome. Overall, our findings demonstrate the utility of OCT imaging for both tracking and predicting natural and treatment-directed changes in ischemic stroke lesion cores.

ESTIMATION OF VEHICLE YAW SPEED USING PHOTOGRAMMETRY OF TIRE TRACKS AT TRAFFIC ACCIDENT SCENES

Background: This article presents a study on the use of photogrammetry to determine the critical yaw radius of automotive vehicles and, consequently, estimate the skidding speed. Photogrammetry is a non-invasive measurement technique that uses images to digitally reconstruct three-dimensional objects and analyse their geometric characteristics. Aim: The study aims to capture and process images of tire tracks from a vehicle in skidding conditions at the scene of a traffic accident to calculate the critical yaw radius and determine the skid speed. Methods: Images were rectified using specialized software and then processed to calculate the critical yaw radius, allowing the skid speed to be determined based on specific mathematical models. Results: The results obtained demonstrate the predictions and accuracy of photogrammetry as an effective tool for vehicle safety analysis and vehicle dynamics studies in skidding conditions. Discussion: This approach not only provides important information for the development of stability control systems, but also contributes to a deeper understanding of the specificities related to vehicle safety in critical driving situations. Conclusions: Photogrammetry proves to be a valuable method in enhancing vehicle safety analysis and understanding vehicle dynamics during skidding incidents.

Utilization of Image Tracking for Recognizing Local Animals of Timor-Leste with AR Technology

Timor-Leste as a country adapting to technology aims to better introduce its local animals to users. The purpose of this research is to utilize augmented reality (AR) technology as a tool to provide more engaging information to users. The method used is augmented reality as an interactive tool that helps deliver information to users in two-dimensional (2D) or three-dimensional (3D) formats. This allows users to receive the presented information for decision-making and evaluation of completed work while advancing the development of application systems designed for local animals based on technology in Timor-Leste. Based on the results achieved, to educate primary school children about Timor-Leste’s local animals, books about these animals have been published. To make the presentation more engaging and interactive for students, an application for recognizing Timor-Leste’s local animals based on augmented reality (AR) has been implemented on the Android platform. The data align with previous research on book media and augmented reality media. The purpose of this measurement is to evaluate how engaging and interactive both media are in introducing Timor-Leste's local animals to primary school children.

Making Meaningful Places: Augmented Reality for Digital Placemaking in Clearwater, Florida

Enhancing public art installations with augmented reality (AR) merges the physical and digital worlds and creates a strong sense of place attachment in urban settings. AR is an established tool for digital placemaking, which is a participatory form of embodied space-based social practice. While there is disagreement over whether digital placemaking is best achieved through organic engagement with locative media, deliberate urban planning initiatives, or a combination of both, it is increasingly clear that well-designed AR can impact how citizens perceive and engage with their physical surroundings and can invigorate urban spaces. In this article, we explore the design and development of ARTours Clearwater, an AR app that was developed as part of a city-led public art initiative aimed at increasing foot traffic and enlivening a downtown district through the creation of vivid, memorable, “imageable” spaces. The app development workflow encompassed terrestrial lidar scanning of the murals, the identification of tracking images in Vuforia, the development and scaling of digital animations in Unity, and onsite testing to evaluate environmental conditions. The project came to fruition at a public launch, which promoted novel forms of people-place interactions by bringing together multiple stakeholder groups in a synchronous event that enlivened the city’s downtown.

Global longitudinal strain manually measured from mid-myocardial lengths is a reliable alternative to speckle tracking global longitudinal strain.

Global longitudinal strain (GLS) is a useful marker for the echocardiographic evaluation of left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction. Presently GLS is derived from speckle tracking of LV images, but speckle tracking software is not always available. We seek to determine if manually measured GLS (MM-GLS) by assessing mid-myocardial lengths can be a reliable alternative to speckle tracking GLS (ST-GLS). Transthoracic echocardiogram images of a tertiary hospital in Australia were retrospectively analyzed to study the relationships between ST-GLS, MM-GLS, and LV ejection fraction (LVEF). We further evaluated the impact of image quality and regional wall motion abnormalities on those relationships. Echocardiography studies from 154 patients were included (female sex, 36%; mean age, 61.7 ± 14.8years). The average LVEF was 51.3% ± 11.3% and the average ST-GLS was 16.7 ± 3.8. MM-GLS strongly correlated with ST-GLS (intraclass correlation coefficient, 0.986; P < 0.001) and with LVEF regardless of the presence of regional wall motion abnormalities. If using GLS cutoff of more than 18% as normal, 97.5% of studies with normal ST-GLS had normal MM-GLS. If using GLS cutoff as less than 16% as abnormal, 95.5% of studies with abnormal ST-GLS had abnormal MM-GLS. There was no case with ST-GLS > 18% and MM-GLS < 16%, nor were there any case in with ST-GLS < 16% and MM-GLS > 18%. MM-GLS correlates strongly with ST-GLS. If ST-GLS cannot be accurately assessed, MM-GLS may be a useful alternative to provide GLS values in both clinical and research studies.

CalTrig: A GUI-based Machine Learning Approach for Decoding Neuronal Calcium Transients in Freely Moving Rodents.

Advances in in vivo imaging using miniature microscopes have enabled researchers to study single-neuron activity in freely-moving animals. Tools such as MiniAN and CalmAn have been developed to convert visual signals to numerical data, collectively referred to as CalV2N. However, substantial challenges remain in analyzing the large datasets generated by CalV2N, particularly in integrating data streams, evaluating CalV2N output quality, and reliably and efficiently identifying transients. In this study, we introduce CalTrig, an open-source graphical user interface (GUI) tool designed to address these challenges at the post-CalV2N stage of data processing. CalTrig integrates multiple data streams, including imaging, neuronal footprints, traces, and behavioral tracking, and offers capabilities for evaluating the quality of CalV2N outputs. It enables synchronized visualization and efficient transient identification. We evaluated four machine learning models (i.e., GRU, LSTM, Transformer, and Local Transformer) for transient detection. Our results indicate that the GRU model offers the highest predictability and computational efficiency, achieving stable performance across training sessions, different animals and even among different brain regions. The integration of manual, parameter-based, and machine learning-based detection methods in CalTrig provides flexibility and accuracy for various research applications. The user-friendly interface and low computing demands of CalTrig make it accessible to neuroscientists without programming expertise. We further conclude that CalTrig enables deeper exploration of brain function, supports hypothesis generation about neuronal mechanisms, and opens new avenues for understanding neurological disorders and developing treatments.

Abstract 4121198: Structural Network Alterations After Cardiopulmonary Bypass In a Juvenile Porcine Model

Background: Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) can trigger inflammatory and oxidative stresses in the developing brain. Clinical studies showed altered brain network structure in children after infant cardiac surgery. However, the impact of CPB on structural connectivity remains poorly understood. This study aims to determine the effects of CPB on structural connectivity and underlying cellular events using a juvenile porcine model. Methods: CPB (150 min total) was performed on 2-week-old Yorkshire piglets. High-resolution diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and neurite orientation dispersion and density (NODDI) imaging were performed 4 weeks post-CPB in a total of 12 animals (Control; n=7, CPB; n=5). Structural connectivity assay together with histological analysis was conducted to assess the brain network organization. Results: Our network analysis (Image 1) revealed a CPB-induced reduction of structural connections in particular nodes, such as in the anterior prefrontal cortex (APC), primary somatosensory cortex, substantia nigra (SN), and globus pallidus (GP). In contrast, there was an increase in the premotor cortex (PreMC), primary motor cortex (PriMC), dorsal posterior cingulate cortex (DPCC), and somatosensory cortex (SAC). Three-dimensional images were generated based on these altered nodes, and tractography was generated to indicate changed fiber tracking (Image 2). We found reduced network connections between the basal ganglia and frontal cortex, and increased connections between the motor and posterior region. DTI and NODDI indicated that microstructures of the superior corona radiata (SCR), internal capsule (PLIC), and anterior prefrontal (AP-WM), motor (PreM-/PriM-WM), and somatosensory white matter (SA-WM) were significantly altered after CPB (Image 3). While Iba1+ microglia was activated across all brain regions after CPB (P&lt;.05), CPB-induced oligodendrocyte immatureness was identified in the WMs involved in APC-SN and APC-GP pathways (P&lt;.05). Notably, CPB increased the number of mature oligodendrocytes in motor and SA-WMs (P&lt;.05) where structural connections were increased after CPB. In addition, we found SN dopaminergic neuron injury after CPB (P&lt;.05). Conclusion: CPB altered structural network organization in the developing brain. Spatial differences in oligodendrocyte responses and susceptibility of specific subpopulations of neurons may contribute to the unique connectivity alterations observed after CPB.

Improving CNN Fish Detection and Classification with Tracking

The regular and consistent monitoring of marine ecosystems and fish communities is becoming more and more crucial due to increasing human pressures. To this end, underwater camera technology has become a major tool to collect an important amount of marine data. As the size of the data collected outgrew the ability to process it, new means of automatic processing have been explored. Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have been the most popular method for automatic underwater video analysis for the last few years. However, such algorithms are rather image-based and do not exploit the potential of video data. In this paper, we propose a method of coupling video tracking and CNN image analysis to perform a robust and accurate fish classification on deep sea videos and improve automatic classification accuracy. Our method fused CNNs and tracking methods, allowing us to detect 12% more individuals compared to CNN alone.

Moving objects detection based on histogram of oriented gradient algorithm chip for hazy environment

&lt;span&gt;The most important aspects of computer vision are moving object detection (MOD) and tracking. Many signal-processing applications use regional image statistics. Compute-intensive video and image processing with low latency and high throughput is done with field programmable gate array (FPGA) image processing. Local image statistics are used for edge identification and filtering. The histogram of oriented gradients (HoG) algorithm extracts local shape characteristics by equalizing histograms. The objective of the work is to design the hardware chip of the algorithm and perform the simulation in the Xilinx ISE 14.7 simulation environment. The performance of the chip is evaluated in Modelsim 10.0 simulation software to check its feasibility. The performance of the chip design is estimated on Viretx-5 FPGA and compared with the MATLAB-2020 image processing tool-based response time. This form of tracking typically deals with identifying, anchoring, and tracking images and videos. A mask made from a cut-out of the object can then determine the plane's coordinates depending on its position. This type of object tracking is frequently utilized in the field of augmented reality (AR). The algorithm is most suited for object detection using hardware controllers in haze and foggy environments.&lt;/span&gt;

Vortex light field microscopy: 3D spectral single-molecule imaging with a twist

3D single-molecule imaging reveals nanoscale structures in cell volumes but is limited by the need for spectrally distinct fluorophores. We address this limitation with vortex light field microscopy (VLFM), a 3D spectral single-molecule localization technique with 25 nm spatial and 3 nm spectral precision over a 4 µm depth of field. By modifying our previous single-molecule light field microscope with an azimuthally oriented prism array, we generated spectral disparity orthogonal to axial disparity, enabling simultaneous spatial and spectral localization on a single detector. We demonstrate VLFM with four-color 3D single-particle tracking and two-color 3D dSTORM imaging in fixed cells, successfully identifying dyes with spectral peaks just 15 nm apart. This shows VLFM’s potential for enhancing spatial biology workflows requiring highly multiplexed imaging.

The Value of DTI in Differential Diagnosis of Embryonal Tumors Occurring in the Brainstem and Brainstem Gliomas in Pediatric Patients

IntroductionThere are no apparent distinctions in clinical presentation or conventional imaging findings between brainstem gliomas and embryonal tumors occurring in the brainstem. Our aim was to study the role of diffusion tensor imaging in differentiating embryonal tumors from gliomas of the brainstem. Patients and methodsThree cases of embryonal tumors occurring in the brainstem and nineteen cases of brainstem gliomas were analyzed retrospectively. ResultThe most common brainstem gliomas are diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas(DIPG). On the fiber tracking images, brainstem gliomas were associated with relatively intact projection fibers that continuously traversed the tumor and followed the trajectory of normal neural fibers, while embryonal tumors were associated with disruption of projection fibers. The close cellularity created tissues with significant directional properties in embryonal tumors, restricting the diffusion of water molecules. As a result, there were areas of high anisotropy within the embryonal tumors. Additionally, we observed that the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) value of embryonal tumors occurring in the brainstem was lower than that of brainstem gliomas, and the difference was statistically significant. (P < 0.05). ConclusionDisruption of projection fibrous within the tumor on diffusion tensor imaging may help differentiate embryonal pathology from glial.

A Comprehensive of CPU and GPU Performance and Applications in Autonomous Vehicles

The rapid advancement of autonomous vehicle technology over the past decade has significantly increased the complexity of intelligent transportation systems. This need is clearly reflected in the requirements for high-performance computing in autonomous vehicles — a requirement that artificial intelligence, machine learning and big data analytic have all come to meet through their integration. We need the CPU and GPU power to handle processing in real-time data, sensor fusion and decision-making. We investigate how the CPU and GPU perform in an autonomous driving scenario, concluding that these tasks are complementary to one another describing where each can be best used within a heterogeneous computing architecture. The research delves into how these computing chips can be best used under the demand for real-time processing, reliability and efficiency. The study is to better understand the techniques for improving CPU-GPU collaboration, and applies these new findings on performance-intensive tasks like image recognition or track construction. The technical part involves conducting driving scenarios in the real world on three different types of CPU and several GPU, with key metrics such as processing latency, power consumption and accuracy. The actual experimental results show the advantages of GPU parallel computing and deep learning, while CPU still has a good advantage in multi-tasking ability and logical calculation. The results are important for the implementation of future autonomous driving systems, highlighting heterogeneous computing architectures as a means to optimize and support safe, effective vehicle operations.

The effect of 6-month treatment with coenzyme Q10 on endothelial, vascular and myocardial function in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Abstract Background Patients with Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) hold an increased cardiovascular risk and present impaired markers of vascular, endothelial and myocardial function. Coenzyme Q10 (CQ10) is a powerful antioxidant that enhances mitochondrial function. Patients/methods: 52 patients (52±10 years old) with NAFLD were randomized to 240 mg CQ10 (n=25) or placebo (n=27). We measured at baseline and at six months post-treatment: i) Perfused boundary Region (PBR) of the sublingual arterial microvessels (Microscan, Glycocheck), ii) Carotid femoral pulse wave velocity - PWV (Complior ALAM), iii) Flow-mediated dilation (FMD) of the brachial artery, iv) Global left ventricular longitudinal strain (GLS) by speckle tracking imaging, v) Controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) measurement (FibroScan, Echosens). Results Six months post treatment with cQ10, values of PBR (2.12±0.19 vs. 2.28±0.23 μm), PWV (9.5±2.3 vs. 10.5±2.4m/s), CAP score (278.1±50, 2 vs. 305.3±44.5dB/m), FMD (6.61±4 vs. 5.02±2.6 %) and GLS (-19.3±1.9 vs -18.2±2 %) were improved (p&amp;lt;0.05 for all comparisons). On the contrary, the patients who were treated with placebo did not show statistically significant differences in PBR, PWV, CAP score, FMD and GLS after from 6 months (p&amp;gt;0.05). In the patients who received cQ10, the percentage reduction of CAP score at 6 months was directly proportional to the percent reduction in PWV (r=0.31, p=0.045) and inversely proportional to the percentage increase in FMD (r=-0.58, p=0.014). Conclusion Six-month treatment with CoQ10 reduces liver steatosis in patients with NAFLD. CoQ10 is associated with improved endothelial, vascular and LV myocardial function in patients with NAFLD.

Decreased left atrial volume and preserved left atrial function in children with congenital Zika syndrome

Abstract Introduction The infection caused by Zika virus during pregnancy leads to congenital Zika syndrome (CZS). In a previous study of our group, we found that the heart is smaller in children with CZS, with few functional alterations. Left atrial strain imaging enables quantitative assessment of left atrial function, and recently its application has also shown promise in the pediatric population. Purpose To evaluate left atrial function in children affected by CZS, using echocardiogram and speckle tracking imaging technique. Methods This observational study was conducted with children with CZS using a two-dimensional speckle tracking technique to measure left atrial reservoir strain (LAS-r), conduit strain (LAS-cd), and contraction strain (LAS-ct). Also, to investigate the relationship between LAS-r and systolic excursion of the septum and lateral mitral annular plane (MAPSE), left atrial volume index and E/e’ ratio. Results A total of 52 patients were included, the median age of the studied population was 5 years (3 to 6), 59.6% male, and the body surface area was 0.66 [0.51, 0.90]. In the echocardiographic evaluation the left atrium volume index (ml/m²) was 13.15 [6.80, 18.00], considered smaller by the reference value. Also, the LAS-r (%) was 40.99 [24-70.5], LAS-cd (%) was 30,94 [32.5-52.5], LAS-cd (%) was 10,91 [5.2-24], values considered normal by the literature. Lateral MAPSE (cm) was 1.25 [0.81, 1.86] and septal MAPSE (cm) was 0.98 [0.78, 1.66] and E/e' ratio was 7.52 [4.57, 10.78]. A positive linear correlation was found between LAS-r and lateral MAPSE (r = 0.51, P = 0.019). Conclusion This original study with children with CZS shows that despite reduced atrial volume, the left atrial function remains normal, and correlates with left ventricular function evaluated by MAPSE. Further studies are needed to prospectively analyze the follow-up of left atrial morphology and function in this population.

Assessment of right ventricular dysfunction in breast cancer patients undergoing anthracycline and trastuzumab treatment

Abstract Background Anthracyclines and trastuzumab continue to be within the most popular systemic agents used in breast cancer treatment. Nonetheless, their cardiotoxic effects contribute to significant morbidity and mortality, which have been extensively studied and acknowledged. Left ventricular impairment and remodeling due to chemo- and target-therapy induced cardiotoxicity has been well described. However, effects on right ventricular function have not been fully elucidated and are incompletely understood. Purpose We aim to comprehensively assess right ventricular function in breast cancer patients before and during treatment with anthracyclines and trastuzumab. Methods We prospectively evaluated echocardiographic right ventricle (RV) parameters in 160 women (median age 48, IQR 43.00 - 57.00) diagnosed with breast cancer undergoing treatment with doxorubicin, trastuzumab or its combination. These patients were referred to a national cardiac reference centre to assess cancer therapy related cardiovascular dysfunction (CTRCD) risk. Two-dimensional echocardiography with speckle tracking imaging of left ventricle (LV) and RV was performed at baseline, 3 and 6 months. Right ventricular function was assessed with tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE), S’wave of the tricuspid annulus (S'), fractional area change (FAC), and free wall strain (RV-FWS). We designed a composite variable of right ventricular dysfunction constituted by any decrease in systolic function as evidenced by standard cutoff values of TAPSE, FAC, S’wave and RV-FWS. Descriptive statistics were calculated. Categorical values were compared using either the Fisher’s exact test or Chi-squared test and differences between means were assessed with the Kruskal-Wallis test or the Wilcoxon test as appropriate. Results TAPSE and S’ were significantly reduced from baseline, at 3 and 6 months, respectively (TAPSE: 21.62 ± 2.22, 21.00 ± 1.83, 20.72 ± 1.99, P=&amp;lt;0.001; S’:12.16 ± 1.91, 11.70 ± 1.76, 11.51 ± 1.53, P = 0.012) (Table 1). There were no significant changes in right ventricular echocardiographic parameters comparing patients with and without CTRCD, nevertheless, a notable proportion in both groups was observed (see Table 2). Conclusions There is a progressive decline in right ventricular systolic function over treatment with anthracyclines and trastuzumab. Even though RV dysfunction does not significantly differ between patients with or without cardiotoxicity, the high proportion observed highlights the need for comprehensive echocardiographic assessments.