Abstract: A method and system for rapidly predicting cardiac response to a heart condition and treatment strategy of a patient. Predictions are accomplished using a compartmental model that includes systemic and pulmonary circulations represented as a system of resistors and capacitors together with chambers of the heart represented as simple geometric shapes such as spheres or assemblies of spheres or other analytic equations that relate pressure and volume to stress and strain. The model is calibrated using disease-specific data sets for a specific heart condition. Simple geometry modeling allows for rapid use such that hemodynamic parameters may be tuned for optimal accuracy. Treatment strategies may be modified and re-simulated in real time if necessary to achieve a more optimal outcome and treatment.

Abstract: Anisotropic reinforcements and synthetic materials are provided in which the fibers, mesh, weave, or otherwise interlaced or networked components thereof are oriented in one direction so as to create greater stiffness and/or tension in the one direction of the patch relative to other directions of the reinforcement. Methods of producing such anisotropic reinforcements are provided. The anisotropic reinforcements are advantageously suitable for the surgical repair of incisions, openings, defects, etc. of the cardiovascular system and allow healing to occur while preserving mechanical function, particularly ventricular function.

Abstract: Anisotropic reinforcements and synthetic materials are provided in which the fibers, mesh, weave, or otherwise interlaced or networked components thereof are oriented in one direction so as to create greater stiffness in the one direction of the patch relative to other directions of the reinforcement. Methods of producing such anisotropic reinforcements are provided. The anisotropic reinforcements are advantageously suitable for the surgical repair of incisions, openings, defects, etc. of the cardiovascular system and allow healing to occur while preserving mechanical function, particularly ventricular function.

Abstract: Methods for providing diagnostic information using endocardial surface data for a patient's heart are described herein. In some embodiments, endocardial surface data for the left ventricle of a heart is received. The endocardial surface data represents the endocardial surface of the left ventricle at multiple times over a heartbeat and is obtained using a volumetric imaging application. A representation in prolate spheroidal coordinates of the endocardial surface of the left ventricle at least a portion of the multiple times is generated using the endocardial surface data. The prolate spheroidal coordinates include a longitudinal angular coordinate ?, a circumferential angular coordinate ?, and a coordinate ? as a function of longitudinal angular coordinate ? and circumferential angular coordinate ?. A measure that provides diagnostic information related to the left ventricle is computed based at least on part on the value of coordinate ?.

Abstract: Improved alkylation reactor and reaction emulsion phase separation apparatus is described. Such apparatus is particularly useful in sulfuric acid catalyzed alkylation of isoparaffin with olefins for production of high octane value alkylate.