Abstract: Devices and methods are provided for trans-esophageal aortic flow control. The device comprises a controller, an esophageal tube extending from the controller, an anchor device at a distal end of the esophageal tube and configured to anchor the distal end of the device inside a patient's stomach, and an actuator positioned proximally to the anchoring device by a sufficient distance so that the actuator will be proximal to the intersection of the patient's esophagus with their diaphragm when the anchoring device is positioned inside of the patient's stomach. In this position, the anchoring device is aligned with the location at which the patient's esophagus and aorta cross that is above (or proximal to) the intersection with the patient's diaphragm, with the patient's aorta then positioned between the spine and the esophagus.

Abstract: An ear plug package is provided to compressibly and compactly store one or more earplugs. The ear plug package comprises a base, a body, and a retaining seal. The base is coupled to the body, and the body includes one or more compartments, each adapted to receive and store at least one compressible earplug. The retaining seal is removable, and may comprise multiple sections, with perforations between sections. The ear plug package also may include one or more surfaces ideal for printing advertising, logos, images, or the like. In a preferred embodiment, the base includes at least one print surface. In another embodiment, the seal is provided with a print surface, in addition to or in place of a print surface on the base. The ear plug package is dimensionally similar to a credit card or business card.