Abstract: A method of identifying and quantifying calcified regions of a tissue including obtaining an image of a cross-section of the tissue, wherein the image distinguishes between calcified regions and non-calcified regions of the cross-section of the tissue. Also disclosed are methods of detecting a change in size of a calcified region of a tissue over time including identifying and quantifying a first size of the calcified region of the tissue at a first time, identifying and quantifying a second size of the corresponding calcified region of the tissue at a second time, and detecting a change in size between the first and second size of the calcified region of the tissue in the image of a cross-section of the tissue. Some aspects relate to computer software program configured to construct a panoramic image from partial images, quantify RGB values for each pixel in the panoramic image, and calculate the total pixels of calcified and uncalcified regions and a calcification ratio.

Abstract: A hybrid tissue engineered heart valve leaflet including a polyurethane core, such as a polycarbonate-based thermoplastic polyurethane like carbothane. The polyurethane core is enclosed within one or more layer of a patient's cells and collagen. Also disclosed are hybrid tissue engineered heart valves, including a frame; and at least two leaflets attached thereto in a configuration of a heart valve, wherein the leaflets are hybrid tissue engineered heart valve leaflets, and methods of making a hybrid tissue engineered heart valve for deployment in a patient.

Abstract: A method of identifying and quantifying calcified regions of a tissue including obtaining an image of a cross-section of the tissue, wherein the image distinguishes between calcified regions and non-calcified regions of the cross-section of the tissue. Also disclosed are methods of detecting a change in size of a calcified region of a tissue over time including identifying and quantifying a first size of the calcified region of the tissue at a first time, identifying and quantifying a second size of the corresponding calcified region of the tissue at a second time, and detecting a change in size between the first and second size of the calcified region of the tissue in the image of a cross-section of the tissue. Some aspects relate to computer software program configured to construct a panoramic image from partial images, quantify RGB values for each pixel in the panoramic image, and calculate the total pixels of calcified and uncalcified regions and a calcification ratio.

Abstract: A hybrid tissue engineered heart valve leaflet including a polyurethane core, such as a polycarbonate-based thermoplastic polyurethane like carbothane. The polyurethane core is enclosed within one or more layer of a patient's cells and collagen. Also disclosed are hybrid tissue engineered heart valves, including a frame; and at least two leaflets attached thereto in a configuration of a heart valve, wherein the leaflets are hybrid tissue engineered heart valve leaflets, and methods of making a hybrid tissue engineered heart valve for deployment in a patient.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods and systems for evaluating and modeling fibrous structures from one or more images. The methods and systems allow for robust, independent, and accurate quantification of fiber orientation in complicated structures, such as the undulating, interweaving, and multidirectional fibers of the human cornea. In addition, the methods and systems can be used to study, repair, and perform quality control on existing biological and industrial structures that include fibers (e.g., carbon nanotubes). Some embodiments can be used to predict the properties (e.g., strength, contrast, and material degradation) of and engineer new biological and industrial structures with fibers (e.g., synthetic corneas).