Abstract: Several embodiments of a clamping device are disclosed, for tightening and securing a purse string suture used to seal the tissue around a cannula or a catheter or the like placed in a heart, major vessel or other tissue structure. The clamping device includes a compressible sleeve means solidly secured at a proximal end to a compression-applying means such as a clamp mechanism. A suture-pulling needle is inserted through a common lumen, whereby the trailing ends of the suture thread which forms the purse string suture may be pulled through the compressible sleeve means and clamp mechanism. Application of a force to the clamp mechanism while it is not locked to the trailing ends compresses the compressible sleeve means. Release of the clamp mechanism locks the enclosed trailing ends of the suture thread. The compressed sleeve means applies constant and precalibrated tension on the purse string suture to continuously maintain the seal about the cannula.

Abstract: An apparatus for stabilizing a concha style headset comprises a receiver attachment that couples to the body of the receiver of the headset, a flexible and resilient support member extending from the receiver attachment, and a concha stabilizer pad coupled to the end of the support member, such that the concha stabilizer pad contacts the upper concha under the antihelix of the ear with the receiver placed in the lower concha in front of the ear canal. The receiver attachment can include a foam ear cushion that covers the portion of the receiver that is placed in the lower concha, with the concha stabilizer pad and the flexible support member formed of a compressed cellular foam. Support ribs extend from the upper surface of the ear cushion along the surface of the support member and join the concha stabilizer pad.

Abstract: A separable connector for electrically coupling two portions of multiple-conductor cable is disclosed. The connector, in a connected state, is held together by operation of the novel shape of the connector halves. The two connector halves, which each include therein a plurality of metallic contact strips, are identical and "gender neutral", such that any two connector halves may be coupled together. Connection of the connector halves is accomplished by pushing the two halves together; disconnection is accomplished by pulling them apart. When connected, continuous electrical contact is maintained between contact strips in each respective half. The connector is constructed of molded plastic, and includes rubber strain relief collars for preventing fatigue and failure of the attached portions of multiple conductor cable.