Left ventricular model parameters and cardiac rate variability.

A recent functional model of the left ventricle characterizes the ventricle's contractile state with parameters, rather than variables. The ventricle is treated as a pressure generator that is time and volume dependent. The heart's complex dynamics develop from a single equation based on the formation and relaxation of crossbridge bonds within underlying heart muscle.

The influence of nonlinear intra-thoracic vascular behaviour and compression characteristics on cardiac output during CPR.

Clinical observations suggest that the assumption of a linear relationship between chest compression pressure and cardiac output may be oversimplified. More complex behaviour may occur when the transmural pressure is large, changing the compliances and resistances in the intra-thoracic vasculature. A fundamental understanding of these compression induced phenomena is required for improving CPR.

Functional requirements of a mathematical model of the heart.

Functional descriptions of the heart, especially the left ventricle, are often based on the measured variables pressure and ventricular outflow, embodied as a time-varying elastance. The fundamental difficulty of describing the mechanical properties of the heart with a time-varying elastance function that is set a priori is described. As an alternative, a new functional model of the heart is presented, which characterizes the ventricle's contractile state with parameters, rather than variables.

Comparative analysis of seismocardiogram waves with the ultra-low frequency ballistocardiogram.

Simultaneous seismocardiogram (SCG) and ultra-low frequency ballistocardiogram (BCG) signals are recorded. Preliminary results from the BCG helped tag which waves on the SCG are related to the rapid systolic ejection and aortic valve closure events. These results agreed with and further confirmed previous findings using the echocardiogram.