Abstract: Endoprosthesis, such as a stent, includes at least one annular element defined by a first set of strut members interconnected to define apices proximate opposite sides of the annular element. The annular element further includes a foot extension extending between at least one pair of circumferentially-adjacent strut members. The foot extension has first and second foot portions extending circumferentially from corresponding ends of the circumferentially-adjacent strut members, and are contoured to provide at least two areas of flexure. The first and second foot portions are joined at a toe portion of the foot extension, and define a circumferentially-directed apex between the pair of circumferentially-adjacent strut members. Preferably, at least one or more additional annular elements, each defined by interconnected strut members, are provided. The annular elements are generally expandable between a delivery configuration and a deployed configuration.

Abstract: Endoprosthesis, such as a stent, includes at least one annular element defined by a first set of strut members interconnected to define apices proximate opposite sides of the annular element. The annular element further includes a foot extension extending between at least one pair of circumferentially-adjacent strut members. The foot extension has first and second foot portions extending circumferentially from corresponding ends of the circumferentially-adjacent strut members, and are contoured to provide at least two areas of flexure. The first and second foot portions are joined at a toe portion of the foot extension, and define a circumferentially-directed apex between the pair of circumferentially-adjacent strut members. Preferably, at least one or more additional annular elements, each defined by interconnected strut members, are provided. The annular elements are generally expandable between a delivery configuration and a deployed configuration.

Abstract: Endoprosthesis, such as a stent, includes at least one annular element defined by a first set of strut members interconnected to define apices proximate opposite sides of the annular element. The annular element further includes a foot extension extending between at least one pair of circumferentially-adjacent strut members. The foot extension has first and second foot portions extending circumferentially from corresponding ends of the circumferentially-adjacent strut members, and are contoured to provide at least two areas of flexure. The first and second foot portions are joined at a toe portion of the foot extension, and define a circumferentially-directed apex between the pair of circumferentially-adjacent strut members. Preferably, at least one or more additional annular elements, each defined by interconnected strut members, are provided. The annular elements are generally expandable between a delivery configuration and a deployed configuration.

Abstract: A network manager comprises a local group of network workstations and clients that periodically need access to a wide area network like the Internet. A class-based queue traffic shaper is placed in between and collects network-connection statistics. Such statistics are used in real-time to enforce multiple service-level agreement policies on individual connection sessions by limiting the maximum data throughput for each connection. The statistic data is stored in a large SQL-type database. A superview table is obtained and filtered for individual client views. Such superview table is loaded from a limited number of SQL CREATE VIEW statements. Client queries then pick and chose off-line from the superview table on their own.

Abstract: The present invention is a device and method for controlling longitudinal movement of a tube relative to a shaft slidably disposed within the tube, especially in the catheterization of a patient. An operative segment on the shaft cooperates with an ancillary tool to create a coupling force field between the shaft and the tool. The tube can then be moved over the shaft while the coupling force field operates through the tube to restrict the movement of the shaft. In the preferred embodiment, the shaft is a guide wire and the tube is a catheter with a lumen for slidably receiving the guide wire, while the coupling force field is created magnetically. In one embodiment, the operative segment is borne on a short guide wire extension which is selectively securable to a standard guide wire.