Dynamic Patient-Specific Three-Dimensional Simulation of Mitral Repair: Can We Practice Mitral Repair Preoperatively?

Objective: Planned mitral repair strategies are generally established from preoperative echocardiography; however, specific details of the repair are often determined intraoperatively. We propose that three-dimensional printed, patient-specific, dynamic mitral valve models may help surgeons plan and trial all the details of a specific patient's mitral repair preoperatively.

Methods: Using preoperative echocardiography, segmentation, modeling software, and three-dimensional printing, we created dynamic, high-fidelity, patient-specific mitral valve models including the subvalvular apparatus.

N-Benzylnicotinamide and N-benzyl-1,4-dihydronicotinamide: useful models for NAD and NADH.

3-Aminocarbonyl-1-benzylpyridinium bromide (N-benzylnicotinamide, BNA), CHNO·Br, (I), and 1-benzyl-1,4-dihydropyridine-3-carboxamide (N-benzyl-1,4-dihydronicotinamide, rBNA), CHNO, (II), are valuable model compounds used to study the enzymatic cofactors NAD(P) and NAD(P)H. BNA was crystallized successfully and its structure determined for the first time, while a low-temperature high-resolution structure of rBNA was obtained. Together, these structures provide the most detailed view of the reactive portions of NAD(P) and NAD(P)H.

Extraesophageal manifestations of gastroesophageal reflux disease: real or imagined?

Purpose Of Review: Extraesophageal reflux disease is a common clinical presentation to gastroenterology as well as ear, nose and throat, allergy, and asthma clinics. The diagnosis and management of this condition is challenging. We review the current dilemma in this area and discuss the latest studies which help guide our therapies for patients with suspected extraesophageal reflux.