Abstract: Disclosed is a surgical fixation device to mount on bone. This device does not utilize screws and achieves stability via applying force to the inner wall of the bore and is therefore faster, easier to use, and less user dependent. The device facilitates fast, easy anchoring system for use with other devices that require rigid fixation to bone. The device provides for intermittent mounting of tools, equipment, and/or accessories to a cylindrical bore in bone for use in surgical applications without compromising surrounding bine structure such as done by the use of bone screws. Rigid fixation to bone is a common requirement for surgical procedures for placement of tools, monitoring systems, positional systems, or used as fiducial markers. The present fixation device removably mounts on bone without the disadvantages associated with bone screws and other fixation devices.

Abstract: Systems and methods for producing mixed lifting gases (e.g., hydrogen gas and steam) for filling balloons are described. In some embodiments, controlling an altitude of a balloon includes combining a reactant and water to produce hydrogen gas and steam, and flowing the hydrogen gas and steam into the balloon to increase a buoyancy of the balloon.