Abstract: A fretting buffer includes a matrix, a plurality of reinforcing fibers, and a lubricant disbursed substantially homogeneously in the matrix.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates generally to ligators, actuation devices, and methods for deploying ligation bands around a portion of tissue, utilizing an endoscope for suction, visualization, and support. In some embodiments, a ligator may include an elongate member having a lumen, and a ligating band dispenser extending from a distal end of the elongate member. The ligating band dispenser may include a cap and at least one ligating band on the cap. The ligator may further include an actuation device extending around the elongate member, wherein the actuation device includes a body, and a bobbin coupled to the body by support arms. A suture may be coupled between the bobbin and the at least one ligating band, wherein rotation of the bobbin draws the suture towards a proximal end of the elongate member to deploy the at least one ligating band from the cap.

Abstract: A hip harness for supporting upper body armor. The harness includes a hip belt, a frame, and a coupler. The hip belt is securable about the hips of a user of the body armor. The frame provides flexible support and has a lower end secured to the rear portion of the hip belt. The coupler is adjustably securable to the upper end of the frame. It has strips that fit through attachment loops on the back of the body armor to secure the harness to the armor.

Abstract: A hip harness for supporting upper body armor. The harness includes a hip belt, a frame, and a coupler. The hip belt is securable about the hips of a user of the body armor. The frame provides flexible support and has a lower end secured to the rear portion of the hip belt. The coupler is adjustably securable to the upper end of the frame. It has strips that fit through attachment loops on the back of the body armor to secure the harness to the armor.

Abstract: A flow stop is formed of a sheet of impermeable material shaped as a bag having a closed end and an open end opposed to the closed end. The open end of the impermeable bag fits over the skirt (or diffuser) of a ventilation register and clamps about the skirt using an elastic band fixed about the open end. The flow stop bag has a noise suppressing elastic member secured across a portion of the closed end.