Abstract: Valvular regurgitation is addressed by implanting devices at or near a native valve to treat leaflet issues. This can be done by treating the leaflets and/or by treating one or more natural chordae tendineae (chords). Treating the leaflets can include methods and devices that bring different leaflets together, and/or inhibiting or arresting a leaflet from billowing and/or flailing into the atrium. Treating the chords can include methods and devices that shorten chords, that increase tension in the chords, that attach chords to the ventricle wall or to each other, and the like. In each of the disclosed methods and devices, coaptation is increased and/or valvular regurgitation is reduced. The disclosed devices and methods can be performed on a beating heart.

Abstract: A waste containment apparatus fits within, the same physical envelope as a typical 6 cubic yard bin. The apparatus has lifting fittings to permit conventional lifting and dumping by a garbage truck. The bin has, internally, a compactor including a motor and a compaction head driven by the motor. The working mechanical assemblies and the electrical control unit are mounted well above the inlet chute. The lifting height of the inlet chute is significantly lower than the top opening level of the bin. The unit has an internal refuse flow accumulation path, and internal members such as deflector plates. The unit may have a liquid drain and collection sump. The sump may have a sump heater. The unit has at least one weighing skid that responds to a weight condition in the event that the bin is loaded to an extent that may make it difficult for a lift truck to raise and tip.