Abstract: An instrument and method for placement of vascular grafts. Embodiments of the instrument comprise an elongated shaft, a clamp and a tip. The shaft includes a distal end portion, a proximal end portion, and optionally a handle at the proximal end portion. The clamp and/or the shaft are configured to removably couple the clamp to the distal end portion of the shaft. The tip and/or the instrument are configured to removably couple the tip to the instrument. In embodiments the tip covers the clamp.

Abstract: An ankle brace received by a footwear boot prevents extension or flexion of the foot while walking. The ankle brace includes a pair of side trusses joined at the top by a shin band and at the bottom by a metatarsal band. When placed on the boot the shin band extends over and across a lower front portion of the shin bone, the metatarsal band extends over the toes and lower foot, and the pair of trusses extend along the inside and outside in a parallel manner from the front of the foot to the ankle and up to the lower shin. A heel strap and heel cup attached to the pair of trusses extends around and receives the back of the boot, retaining the brace in place against the boot.

Abstract: A system for determining the thermal characteristics of a cooling system and controlling the cooling system in response to the determined thermal characteristics. The flow pattern of a cooling reservoir having a surface exposed to the atmosphere is represented by a plurality of water segments each representing a specified time interval, preferably equal time intervals. A thermal characteristic of the segments is determined at least periodically, preferably in response to the prevailing thermal transfer characteristics at the surfaces of the segments, and the flow pattern of the cooling reservoir is modified to accommodate the required cooling needs of the system and to prevent the discharge of cooling water into natural reservoirs if the thermal characteristics of the cooling water do not permit such discharge because of set standards. A method for at least periodically calculating the temperature of each segment from known and assumed thermal data through a trial iteration process is also disclosed.