Abstract: This application relates to methods, systems, and apparatus for replacing native heart valves with prosthetic heart valves and treating valvular insufficiency. In a representative embodiment, a support frame configured to be implanted in a heart valve comprises an annular main body formed by a plurality of angled struts, the main body including a plurality of peaks formed by the intersection of respective adjacent struts. The support frame further comprises one or more leaflet-engaging mechanisms configured to engage leaflets of the heart valve. The support frame can be radially expandable and collapsible.

Abstract: This application relates to methods, systems, and apparatus for replacing native heart valves with prosthetic heart valves and treating valvular insufficiency. In a representative embodiment, a support frame configured to be implanted in a heart valve comprises an annular main body formed by a plurality of angled struts, the main body including a plurality of peaks formed by the intersection of respective adjacent struts. The support frame further comprises one or more leaflet-engaging mechanisms configured to engage leaflets of the heart valve. The support frame can be radially expandable and collapsible.

Abstract: Provided are methods for preparing a mold for making a superhydrophobic surface, comprising contacting a surface of a thermoplastic material with a plasma; coating the surface with a metal; and heating the thermoplastic material to shrink the surface such that the coated metal forms a texture. Also provided are methods of preparing a superhydrophobic surface, as well as a superhydrophobic surface that includes a hydrophilic portion prepared by plasma treatment.