Experimental validation of the fluid-structure interaction simulation of a bioprosthetic aortic heart valve.

Experiments performed on a 19 mm diameter bioprosthetic valve were used to successfully validate the fluid-structure interaction (FSI) simulation of an aortic valve at 72 bpm. The FSI simulation was initialized via a novel approach utilizing a Doppler sonogram of the experimentally tested valve. Using this approach very close quantitative agreement (≤12.

Application of finite element analysis to the design of tissue leaflets for a percutaneous aortic valve.

Percutaneous Aortic Valve (PAV) replacement is an attractive alternative to open heart surgery, especially for patients considered to be poor surgical candidates. Despite this, PAV replacement still has its limitations and associated risks. Bioprosthetic heart valves still have poor long-term durability due to calcification and mechanical failure.

Metabolic and hormonal changes during the refeeding period of prolonged fasting.

Objective: The discovery of leptin, a hormone primarily involved in adaptation to fasting, led to an increased interest in appetite regulation and appetite-modulating hormones. Here, we present unique data from a case of extreme starvation and refeeding, showing changes in plasma concentrations of appetite-modulating and metabolic hormones as well as biochemical changes, and draw attention to the dangers of the refeeding syndrome.

Patients And Methods: We studied the refeeding period of a 44-day voluntary fast uncomplicated by underlying disease.

Macro- and micronutrient losses and nutritional status resulting from 44 days of total fasting in a non-obese man.

Objective: We wanted to establish and understand how the fractional losses of fat, fat-free tissues, and selected nutrients compare with that of body mass during a 44-d voluntary starvation (water only) and measurements of nutrient status.

Methods: We used anthropometry, sequential measurements of urinary substances during the fast, and blood analytes at the end of the fast.

Results: At the start of the fast, body weight was 96.