Artificial heart newer versions, such as the Heartmate II, developed by The Texas Heart Institute of Houston, provide continuous flow. These pumps (which may be centrifugal or axial flow) are smaller and potentially more durable and last longer than the current generation of total heart replacement pumps. Another major advantage of a VAD is that the patient keeps the natural heart, which may still function for temporary back-up support if the mechanical pump were to stop. This may provide enough support to keep the patient alive until a solution to the problem is implemented. In August 2006, an artificial heart was implanted
Jay Alan Liotta Jay Alan Liotta Jay Alan Liotta is a senior official in the Department of Defense, in its Office of Detainee Policy. Liotta earned a Bachelor's degree form Wittenberg University in 1982, in Political Science and East Asian Studies. During the summer of 1981 he spent a term in China. Liotta entered the US Government service in 1983. Liotta completed a Masters at George Washington University's School of Public and International Affairs. Liotta studied Mandarin at University, and much of his Government service has been served in Asia, or working on Asian related issues. Liotta led the first American delegation to