Abstract: A method of managing a network for delivering content to a client device, where content segments are delivered over multicast to a proxy. The received segments are stored at the proxy, before delivery of those segments is made from the proxy to the client device over unicast. Whilst the proxy receives further segments over multicast, it probes the network by making unicast requests for data (dummy data or additional content segments), and receiving those segments over unicast from the content server. The multicast rate reception rate and the unicast (probe) rate are measured and a maximum network throughput is calculated as the sum of these two rates. Subsequent segments are then delivered from the proxy to the client device at the calculated maximum network throughput rate, or at some rate dependent thereon.

Abstract: A hemostatic clip cartridge for holding a dispensing a polymeric hemostatic clip having a pair of legs connected at proximal ends to a hinge and latching means at distal ends of the legs, and including laterally projecting engagement means adapted to be slidingly received by notched jaws of an applier instrument. The cartridge includes a base having a plurality of longitudinally spaced clip retaining compartments for retaining individual clips carried at the hinge on a saddle extending between adjacent upwardly extending walls. A retainer secured to the base has laterally spaced deflectable arms projecting inwardly toward the saddle in resilient engagement with the legs of the clips. The deflectable arms have a U-shaped medial notch at the distal end having a base wall engagable with the legs and defining laterally spaced terminal fingers registering with said engagement means.

Abstract: A surgical clip removal instrument having operative surfaces at the distal jaws that directly compress the legs of a latched surgical clip and upon limited closure movement differentially elongate the clip legs to achieve an unlatched condition. Upon release of the jaws, the inherent resiliency of the clip outwardly biases the legs while maintaining contact with the jaws, allowing removal of the clip from the surgical site in a single piece.

Abstract: The present invention provides a cartridge that retains clips in their slots and also facilitates removal of the clips by a clip applier. The slots are provided with at least one and preferably two retaining members that protrude from and preferably run substantially parallel to the slot-defining walls. The retaining members interfere with the clip to an extent sufficient to retain the clip in the slot while permitting relative movement between the clip and the saddle. In a preferred embodiment, the legs of the clip are flared to further facilitate engagement between the clip legs and the grooves of the applier jaws.

Abstract: A blood processing system is described in which blood pressure readings obtained before and after passage of blood aspirated from an operative site through a membrane separator is used by a programmed controller to determine the hematocrit level of the blood and to add saline solution to adjust the hematocrit level to a desired level. The blood processing system contains a distributor cap to distribute wash solution to the inside of a filter to wash out additional blood cellular material within the filter. A precollector may be used remotely from the site of the blood processing system and later joined with the system to withdraw blood contained in the precollector for processing by the blood processing system.

Abstract: A collapsible and expandable container for collecting fluids under the influence of a vacuum. A rigid front wall and a flexible rear wall define a variable volume collection bag interior. A plurality of rigid, elongated panels are spaced about and attached to the flexible rear wall. A rigid stent is releasably engageable to the panels to distend the rear wall relative to the rigid front wall.