Publications by authors named "C Maria Francia"

ObjectiveThis study aims to describe the pattern and trends in acute rheumatic fever (ARF)/rheumatic heart disease (RHD)-related hospitalisations and costs for Australians aged <65 years.MethodsThis retrospective linked data study measured trends in hospitalisations and costs for ARF, RHD and complications of ARF/RHD in Northern Territory, South Australia, Western Australia, Queensland and New South Wales between 1 July 2012 and 30 June 2017. Persons with ARF/RHD were identified from RHD registers and/or hospital records.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

ObjectiveIn Australia, accurate case ascertainment of acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD) diagnoses for disease surveillance and control purposes requires the use of multiple data sources, including RHD registers and hospitalisation records. Despite drawing on multiple data sources, the true burden of ARF/RHD is likely to be underestimated.MethodsThis study used capture-recapture methods to quantify the missing number of ARF/RHD cases in data from hospitals and jurisdictional RHD registers.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

With its very high theoretical energy density, the Li-O battery could be considered a valid candidate for future advanced energy storage solutions. However, the challenges hindering the practical application of this technology are many, as for example electrolyte degradation under the action of superoxide radicals produced upon cycling. In that frame, a gel polymer electrolyte was developed starting from waste-derived components: gelatin from cold water fish skin, waste from the fishing industry, and wood flour waste from the wood industry.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

ObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate potential missed diagnoses of acute rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease during hospital-based care among persons subsequently identified with these conditions.MethodsThis retrospective cohort study used linked emergency department and inpatient administrative records from Queensland, Northern Territory, South Australia, and New South Wales during 2003-2018 (varying between jurisdictions by completeness of data) of all persons first identified with acute rheumatic fever or rheumatic heart disease while aged 8-24years. Using coded discharge diagnoses from the preceding 3years, we identified presentations (e.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

ObjectiveThis study aimed to explore equity of care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples compared to non-Indigenous Australians within a Queensland-wide musculoskeletal service.MethodThe service database was analysed between July 2018 and April 2022 across 18 Queensland Health facilities. Representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples within the service's patient population was first explored.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF