Abstract: A biological indicator reader is provided for reading a plurality of biological indicators to determine the effectiveness of at least a sterilization process. Each biological indicator is configured to exhibit fluorescence when the sterilization process has failed. Each reader comprises a housing having a plurality of biological indicator holders, a heater coupled to the housing and configured to heat the plurality of biological indicator holders to a preselected temperature to incubate the biological indicators, a UV light emitter configured to emit UV light through a first aperture on the side of each holder and an optical detector positioned under a second aperture on the bottom of the biological indicator holder, the optical detector configured to detect fluorescence intensity indicating the effectiveness of the sterilization process. A method of using the biological indicator reader is provided. A biological indicator system is also provided.

Abstract: A biological indicator reader is provided for reading a plurality of biological indicators to determine the effectiveness of at least a sterilization process. Each biological indicator is configured to exhibit fluorescence when the sterilization process has failed. Each reader comprises a housing having a plurality of biological indicator holders, a heater coupled to the housing and configured to heat the plurality of biological indicator holders to a preselected temperature to incubate the biological indicators, a UV light emitter configured to emit UV light through a first aperture on the side of each holder and an optical detector positioned under a second aperture on the bottom of the biological indicator holder, the optical detector configured to detect fluorescence intensity indicating the effectiveness of the sterilization process. A method of using the biological indicator reader is provided. A biological indicator system is also provided.

Abstract: An orthosis including a splint, a sole member detachably connectable to a surface of the splint, an adjustable fastener extending from the surface of the splint, an aperture extending through the sole member for receiving the adjustable fastener, a projection extending from the surface of the splint and spaced apart from the adjustable fastener and a cutout portion defined on the sole member for receiving the projection when the sole member is installed on the splint.

Abstract: A heat pipe radiator coating of a fibrous material provides protection for the radiator, such as a heat pipe, pumped loop, etc., while allowing good emissivity and heat rejection. Fibers are constructed from fiberglass, glass, quartz, saphire, diamond, carbon carbon, tantalum, stainless steel, aluminum, beryllium, and copper, and may be coated with a variety of metallic materials.