The Aorta : Structure, Function, Dysfunction and Diseases

History. Embryology. Anatomy-Pathology. Physiology-Function. Basic Concepts and Models. Principles of steady and pulsatile hemodynamics. Windkessel and Windkessel-associated models. Wave Reflections. Methods of Evaluation. Local Aortic Properties. Pressure-Diameter Relationship. Echocardiography. MRI. Regional Aortic Properties. PWV (various methods). MRI. Systemic Arterial Properties. Aortic Impedance. Pulse wave analysis. Total arterial compliance. Evaluation of Aortic Wall and Plaques. Regulation of Aortic Function. Baroreflex and Central Mechanisms. Autoregulation. Hormonal Regulation. Endothelial Function. Alterations with Aging / Effect of Gender. Aging. Gender. Alterations in Disease states. Atheroslerosi.