Abstract: A splint for orthopedics for supporting the affected part of a patient suffering from a fracture or a sprain. A splint includes a support having 500˜1500 g/m2 of polyester non-woven fabric coated with a water-curable resin, an aluminum casing having a combination of polyethylene, aluminum and nylon (or polyester) in a pouch form to completely prevent the permeation of water so as to prevent the affected part from festering due to water, and a skin-protecting layer having polypropylene non-woven fabric and an outer surface layer having 200˜400 g/m2 of polyester, polypropylene or nylon, which are sequentially formed on the support. Unlike conventional splints for orthopedics which include a skin contact layer, a surface layer, and a support therebetween, the splint of the invention has a structure in which the support is directly packed with an aluminum casing, and an outer surface layer and a skin-protecting layer are provided thereon.

Abstract: The invention refers to a body fitting element with negative pressure controlled stiffness comprised of a gas tight envelope (1), a plurality of layers fitted in the envelope (3) and a valve (2) adapted to evacuate the interior of the envelope, characterized in that the layers comprise a core (4a) made of a material with a high Young's modulus and flexibility and a first cover layer at both sides of the core made of a material with high friction coefficient (4b).

Abstract: A splint for orthopedics with a mid-layer material made from a stretchable woven fabric knitted with a double raschel warp knitting machine and impregnated with a water-curable resin; and top and bottom surface layers consisting of a non-woven fabric stretchable in both horizontal and vertical directions and a barrier layer against the water-curable resin. The stretchable woven fabric is knitted with a double raschel warp knitting machine, which comprises six symmetrically arranged warpers beams, wherein the outer beams hold coarse polyester yarns; the inner beams hold fine polyester yarns, and the central beams hold rubber threads. The barrier layer includes a paper material susceptible to tearing or a synthetic resin film susceptible to stretching while applying the splint. In another embodiment, as the top and bottom surface layers, a paper material susceptible to tearing or a synthetic resin film susceptible to stretching while applying the splint may be used.

Abstract: A moisture-resistant multi-phase orthopedic system and method including a single layer, three-dimensional knitted fabric having an open structure for providing enhanced moisture transfer from the skin outwardly into the atmosphere and a flap carried by the body and movable between an open position and a closed position overlying a part of the cast body to be applied to a treatment area of the limb. The flap is adapted to cover and retain between the cast body and the flap the splint worn by the patient during the initial treatment phase in the same position as the location of the splint during the initial treatment phase.

Abstract: A muscle toning kit includes an exercise garment having a first resistance article and a second resistance article. The first resistance article and the second resistance article cooperate to facilitate the exercise of at least one muscle group of a user. The first resistance article is adjustable to provide a range of user selected resistance levels, while second resistance article has another range of user selected resistance levels so that as the user maneuvers the exercise garment, its adjustable pressure opposing structures facilitate the toning and conditioning of the at least one muscle group of the user. The method includes wearing and deforming the exercise garment from its original shape through natural extension and flexing actions of the user to facilitate providing a resistive force to condition the at least one muscle group of the user.

Abstract: An orthopedic padding including an elongate spacer fabric having spaced faces interconnected and separated by an intermediate spacer area, the spaced faces having a knitted construction different from a knitted construction of the intermediate spacer area, and the elongate fabric constructed at least in part of hydrophobic monofilament yarn knitted in an open construction for breathability.

Abstract: The invention relates to a rollable splint set which comprises an essentially rectangular substrate, said substrate is made of a transparent or translucent thin layer of thermoplastic material having transverse and longitudinal flexibilities that enable the substrate to assume the following three states: (a) a packed-state in which the splint is maintained in a compact rolled configuration; (b) a pre-use, unrolled state in which the splint automatically assumes a C-configuration in cross section; and (c) a use-state in which the splint wraps an extremity in a C-configuration or a U-configuration in cross section.

Abstract: An ear support assembly and a method for applying pressure to an ear includes a support device having solid planar or curved surfaces and formable material configured to be deformed and retain an impression of a surface of an ear, wherein the planar or curved surfaces are configured to apply pressure to the formable material such that the formable material applies pressure to the surface of the ear.

Abstract: A knee brace adapted for placement over at least a posterior side of a leg and comprising a first posterior frame member, a second posterior frame member connected to first frame member, and a posterior resilient hinge device located at or near a first end portion of the first frame member. The hinge device is arranged to urge the first and second frame members into a predetermined alignment. The hinge device can be arranged for selectively locking the second frame member at an angle relative to the first frame member, and permitting rotation of the second frame member relative to first frame member within a range of predetermined angles.

Abstract: A multi-phase orthopedic system including a moisture-impervious sleeve, a moldable splint including a covered resin-impregnated substrate, an elongate removable wrap for retaining the splint on the limb, and a removable cast for application to the limb during a subsequent treatment phase including a cast body having an interior side and exterior side, and a flap carried by the body and movable between an open position, and a closed position overlying a part of the cast body to be applied to a treatment area of the limb, the flap adapted to cover and retain between the cast body and the flap the splint worn by the patient during the initial treatment phase in the same position as the location of the splint during the initial treatment phase. A method of immobilizing a limb in multiple treatment phases utilizing the multi-phase orthopedic system.

Abstract: A system and method for correcting misshaped ears using a molding device having one or more braces supporting a scaphal mold. The one or more braces and the scaphal mold are adapted to retain the helix and the helical rim of a misshaped ear within a space defined between the one or more braces and the scaphal mold, and to maintain a substantially correct anatomical shape of the helix and the helical rim.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates, according to some embodiments, to a device and/or system (e.g., redistributing weight away from a subject's foot), which may comprise (a) a platform, (b) at least one vertical support fixed to the platform and extending upwardly from the platform, and (c) at least one cuff (i) configured to surround and releasably grip at least a portion of a subject's leg other than the foot and (ii) mounted (e.g., adjustably) to the at least one vertical support at a vertical position along the at least one vertical support sufficient to suspend a subject's foot in a non-weight-bearing position above the platform during ambulation, wherein the platform, the at least one vertical support, and the at least one cuff together are configured to bear at least the subject's full weight.

Abstract: A hand orthosis supporting a patient's thumb and fingers spaced apart and separated from contact with the palm of the hand, including an elongated body having a palm surface, a thumb portion, and a finger support portion. The elongated body includes a plurality of unequal cross-sectional areas spaced along the axial length between a distal end and a base end. A plurality of finger concavities are angled in helical orientation along the orthosis, including spaced apart concavities for each finger and the patient's thumb. Each finger and thumb concavity is angled non-perpendicular relative to the orthosis axial length to retain the fingers and thumb spaced apart, curved in a relaxed orientation, and apart from the palm of the hand during extended periods of time without impeding hand or wrist motion. A method of extended use for the hand orthosis is also disclosed.

Abstract: An immobilizing device for immobilizing a body part includes a bag which is filled with a granular material and is placed over the body part, an outer shell in which the bag is mounted and a hollow space formed between the outer shell and the bag for receiving pressured air in order to produce a force on the bag for immobilizing the body part. The device provides combined advantages over conventional devices, such as almost no absorption of x-rays, a perfect fit for every kind of body part, comfort for a patient, reusability, low cost, neutral smell, very light weight and easy application.

Abstract: An orthopedic casting system that includes a cast tape having a moisture responsive resin therein, the tape being wound onto a tubular polymeric core for shipment and storage prior to use in forming an orthopedic cast. The tubular core has a wall with an inner and outer surface in a first position comprising a plurality of relatively shallow convex and concave portions that extend linearly of the core. Each of the concave portions provide a longitudinal trough along which water flows adjacent the inner wraps of the cast tape. The wall of core is flexibly resilient so that the upon application of a radial inward force on the cast tape and the core, the wall will flex to a second position in which the troughs are deepened. When the force is released the tubular core returns to substantially the first position.

Abstract: An undercast liner for being applied to an anatomical shape of a patient and overlaid with a cast material. An elongate fabric has two opposing faces and an intermediate spacer area that both separates and interconnects the opposed faces. The liner is constructed at least in part of hydrophobic, water resistant monofilament yarn for providing enhanced water resistance, light weight, breathability and resistance to collapse and degradation due to moisture and bacteria during extended use to the liner. The liner has sufficient stretch in both a length-wise and width-wise direction to facilitate conforming the undercast liner around the anatomical shape without wrinkling during application.

Abstract: An orthopedic device as in a dorsal splint for treating plantar fasciitis includes a substantially rigid splint member having an overmolded flexible edge and living hinges, or substantially rigid component pieces received in a flexible member, to provide improved and more comfortable fitting to a user and reduced storage requirements. The splint member is shaped and configured to engage the dorsal aspects of a user's lower leg, ankle, and foot. A soft-good strap system is provided to maintain the dorsal splint in position and has suitable padding to treat various foot conditions.

Abstract: A protective and/or splint device, for example a distal radial splint device (200), comprises a protective and/or splint member (201) and a spacer member (13). The protective and/or splint member (201) comprises a composite protective and/or splint material and is formable at a forming temperature and is substantially rigid at ambient temperature. The material comprises a polycaprolactone and a ligno-cellulose additive material. The protective and/or splint member (201) comprises a mesh of elements (202), with a plurality of openings (203) through the protective and/or splint member (201). Away from the periphery of the splint member (201), the openings (203) are diamond-shaped. Two border elements (204) extend along the two sides of the periphery of the splint member (201). The three point bending strength to openness ratio of the member is greater than 0.1 and the unidirectional bending strength to openness ratio of the member is greater than 4.

Abstract: A medical bandaging product, including a sleeve formed of moisture-impervious material and sealable to prevent entry of moisture, and a medical material positioned in the sleeve and sealed therein against entry of moisture until use. The medical material is a substrate having two marginal areas of relatively lower modulus yarns and/or a more open knitted structure to provide reduced abrasion against the skin. A reactive system on the substrate remains stable when maintained in substantially moisture-free conditions and hardens upon exposure to sufficient moisture to form a rigid, self supporting structure. A soft, flexible protective material covers at least one of the major faces of the substrate along its length to provide a cushioning barrier between the substrate and the skin of a patient when the material is in use.

Abstract: A support (1) of a rigid material having a salient arcuate bow (6) extending orthogonally from one side of the vertex of a saddle portion (5) has a Velcro® hook part (2) fixed onto the concave surface of the saddle portion (5) and a coating of a cushioning material (3) on the convex surface of the salient arcuate bow (6). The support (1) is fixable onto a wrist band (P) by anchoring the Velcro® hook part (2) present on the concave surface of the saddle (5) onto a textile lace (9) of the wrist band (P) passed in front of the thumb, the coated convex surface of the salient arcuate bow (6) sustaining the thumb resting on it. A textile binding lace (7) is wound around the thumb and the sustaining salient arcuate bow (6) of the saddle (5) for immobilizing the thumb.

Abstract: A composite moldable splint having at least a first splinting member with an inner foam layer, an intermediate thermoplastic layer, and an external securing layer. The inner foam layer provides a soft, moisture transmitting, non-latex padding. The intermediate thermoplastic layer provides remoldable shape, and rigidity and strength after heat forming and cooling. The outer securing layer, preferably covered with continuous loop fabric suitable for hook and loop fastening, provides an essentially infinite plurality of attachment points for retaining straps including at least a section of hook fastening material for holding the splint in place. The layers of the composite moldable splint are preferably heat welded to form a strong unitary structure that is resistant to delamination. Composite moldable splints utilizing multiple splinting members are described.

Abstract: An orthopedic device, in the form of a cervical collar having reduced vascular obstruction, has less contact with, and produces less pressure on, the sternocleidomasteoidus area of the neck, thus transferring pressure away from the veins of the neck (vena jugularis externa and interna) to other portions of the neck. Specifically, the shape of the cervical collar at the anterior portion thereof, when applied to the neck of a patient, leaves a clearance of the neck veins by way of fold lines or recessed surfaces provided along a posterior surface of the anterior portion of the collar. The fold lines or recessed surfaces are generally arranged perpendicularly on either side of an open access area defined in the anterior cervical collar portion. Fold lines allow the generally rigid plastic of a cervical collar to naturally curve into a shape that provides the appropriate clearance for the neck veins.

Abstract: A hybrid immobilisation device which is provided to cover at least a part of a patients' body that needs to be supported and/or immobilised, the immobilisation device being at least partly made of a plastic material.

Abstract: An ankle support that is adapted to securely hold the lower leg, ankle and foot of a wearer so as to provide reparative support thereof and an associated method of fabrication thereof. The ankle support includes an outer shell formed of a rigid material that conforms substantially to the configuration of the wearer and including an upper portion for at least partially surrounding the lower leg, an intermediate portion about the ankle and a lower portion that at least partially supports the foot; an inner liner formed of a flexible and conformable material and including an upper portion for at least partially surrounding the lower leg, an intermediate portion about the ankle and a lower portion that at least partially supports the foot and an interlocking mechanism including cooperating and interlocking members of the respective outer shell and inner liner that assist in retaining the inner liner within the outer shell.

Abstract: An orthopedic brace designed to immobilize the knee by preventing flexion/extension and limiting medial/lateral movement. The brace includes a main support structure embodied in a unitary, rigid stay member with slidable, semi-rigid cuffs at one or both ends to provide length adjustability. The stay member has no popliteal articulation in order to immobilize the knee joint, and further provides attachment for a Velcro strapping system for easy application to the posterior of the leg. A breathable foam softgood insulates the leg and knee from the main support structure and strapping system yet is completely detachable from the brace so it can be trimmed to any desired length or width, and washed as necessary.

Abstract: A flexible cast that constructed out of a group of cells. Each cell is filled with a filler that contains a substance that can be heated or cooled. The cast is held onto the user's body by a set of straps and fasteners. The cast is intended to immobilize the body part and either heat or cool it as desired.

Abstract: A medical bandaging product having a predetermined length suitable for a given medical use, including an enclosure formed of a moisture-impervious material sealable to prevent entry of moisture and a medical bandage material positioned in the enclosure and sealed therein against entry of moisture until use. The medical bandage material includes a substrate formed from a single integrated knitted fabric layer having a plurality of interconnected knitted fabric yarns forming a three-dimensional structure. A reactive system is impregnated into or coated onto the substrate. The system remains stable when maintained in substantially moisture-free conditions and hardens upon exposure to sufficient moisture to cooperate with the three-dimensional structure to form a rigid, self supporting structure. A soft, flexible protective wrapping encloses the substrate along its length for providing a cushioning barrier interposed between the substrate and a patient when the medical bandage material is in use.

Abstract: Safety cast compositions for the prevention of thermal injury are provided basically comprising a curable casting material, a flexible substrate coated or impregnated with the casting material and a thermochromic material. Methods for using the safety cast to prevent cast burns in patients in need of immobilizing a body member are also provided.

Abstract: A universal medical binder that is patient controlled, restoring maximum stability to a specific body part. The device is constructed of a unique material, making it possible for a hook type lock material (Velcro) to be attached on either side. The binder has a series of loop rings on the back that allows the material to be directed through the loop rings and then be folded back over itself to minimize the size of the device to accommodate a wide range of body parts. The specially designed loop rings act like a block and tackle system reducing the amount of strength required by the patient to activate the device and maximize support to a specific body part.

Abstract: A medical bandaging product, including a sleeve formed of moisture-impervious material and sealable to prevent entry of moisture, and a medical material positioned in the sleeve and sealed therein against entry of moisture until use. The medical material is a substrate having two marginal areas of relatively lower modulus yarns and/or a more open knitted structure to provide reduced abrasion against the skin. A reactive system on the substrate remains stable when maintained in substantially moisture-free conditions and hardens upon exposure to sufficient moisture to form a rigid, self supporting structure. A soft, flexible protective material covers at least one of the major faces of the substrate along its length to provide a cushioning barrier between the substrate and the skin of a patient when the material is in use.

Abstract: Nearly normal mobility and quality of life, during the treatment of severe surface wounds are supported by the addition of a unique combination of common medical treatment materials with a locally applied body cast. Features of the structure and corresponding kit include off loading and physical protection of the treatment area, evenly applied pressure to maintain a hydrostatically stable environment to promote healing, easy access to the treatment area without removal of most of the structure in addition to the use of readily available inexpensive and space conserving materials for sensitivity to medical cost control and treatment for patients in the developing world, battlefield and other hostile environments.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates, according to some embodiments, to a device and/or system (e.g., redistributing weight away from a subject's foot), which may comprise (a) a platform, (b) at least one vertical support fixed to the platform and extending upwardly from the platform, and (c) at least one cuff (i) configured to surround and releasably grip at least a portion of a subject's leg other than the foot and (ii) mounted (e.g., adjustably) to the at least one vertical support at a vertical position along the at least one vertical support sufficient to suspend a subject's foot in a non-weight-bearing position above the platform during ambulation, wherein the platform, the at least one vertical support, and the at least one cuff together are configured to bear at least the subject's full weight.

Abstract: A medical bandaging product fabricated of a rib-knitted fabric constructed of synthetic yarns selected from the group of acrylic, polyester and polypropylene yarns. An elastic yarn provides elasticity to the fabric, and an effective amount of a water repelling treatment is applied to the fabric for imparting water-repellent characteristics. The fabric may be used as a cast liner or as a protective wrapping of a splint product.

Abstract: A temporary cast consisting of a material exhibiting a specified length, width and thickness, such as an elongated and wound roll material impregnated with a fluid hardenable material. The roll material is retained (in an unused state) encased within an air impermeable container or, in a further application, can exhibit a surface applied and rupture-able foil material to prevent the fluid entrained within the cast material to prematurely harden. The fluid hardening component associated with said material is such that upon exposure to ambient air, is capable of being wound or otherwise formed about the injured location and prior to it being caused to set and harden.

Abstract: The present invention provides an adjustable dorsal splint for resolving the shortcomings of a typical fixation splint. The invention includes a fixation splint, which contains a splint body, a first retaining portion, and a second retaining portion. A curvature adjustment portion is placed at a preset location of the splint body of the fixation splint, so as to adjust the splint body into predefined bending angle. As the fixation splint is provided with a curvature adjustment portion, it is possible to flexibly adjust the bending angle of the fixation splint to mate with the foot of the patient, thereby maintaining the position of the feet with better efficiency.

Abstract: A splint assembly includes a radial correction hand device for correcting ulna finger deviation and a wrist support which includes a palm portion detachable to a palm side of the correction hand device and a ulna portion securable to a user's forearm.

Abstract: The invention is a slide lock for adjusting static progressive splints having a housing, a glide member, and a wheel whereby a monofilament can pass through the housing and be securely held in place by using the glide to force the wheel toward the floor of the housing.

Abstract: A corrective device to be worn on a human foot having a misalignment and positioned inside of footwear. The device having an inner shell having a first material composition and flexibility, and shaped to accommodate receiving therein and supportingly couple with the foot, and an outer shell having a second material composition and flexibility, the second material composition and flexibility being substantially the same as the first flexibility, the outer shell shaped to accommodate receiving therein the inner shell, supportingly couple with the inner shell and allow positioning into the footwear. At least a sufficient portion of a pressure is distributed by the outer shell and the inner shell over a desired area of the foot to provide an amount of correction to the misalignment while allowing the human to wear the inner shell inside of the outer shell inside of the footwear.

Abstract: An elastic material is disclosed, including a breathable, closed cell foam panel. The elastic panel (310) includes recessed portions or channels (312) on at least one side, and apertures (314) therethrough, the apertures disposed in the channels (312). The channels may intersect to produce a network of flow paths for heat and sweat transfer, or may comprise nonintersecting channels that establish a directional flow path. In another embodiment, the channels define a plurality of protrusions, such as circular protrusions (332) or rectangular protrusions (342). The elastic panel is preferably formed by compressing a sheet of closed cell foam between a pair of oppositely disposed, heated plates (410, 420), wherein one of the plates includes a plurality of pins (422), and the other of the plates includes apertures (414) adapted to receive the pins. One or both of the plates includes protrusions (412) for forming the recessed portions or channels.

Abstract: Active suctioning is used to evacuate a fabric, film or membrane for the purpose of securing orthotic, prosthetic, or other body worn articles, including sports-related articles. In contrast to the straps and tight-fitting approaches of existing devices, the inventive methods and apparatus provide for a slip-free seal to surrounding body parts, thereby simplifying construction, reducing weight, and enhancing comfort. The invention is applicable to any type of orthosis, prosthesis, foot wear, mitts, gloves, and so forth, including apparatus associated with the ankle and foot, knee, hip, back and neck, shoulder, elbow and hand.

Abstract: A medical bandaging product, including a non-woven, fibrous, flexible medical material adapted for being applied and conformed to a body part to be supported, and a reactive system impregnated into or coated onto the medical material. The system remains stable when maintained in a non-activated condition in the absence of an activating agent, such as water, and hardens upon activation by exposure to the activating agent to form a rigid, self supporting structure. An enclosure is provided within which the medical material is maintained against exposure to the activating agent until use. The product may be in pre-cut shapes or in roll-form for cutting off a desired length for a given use.

Abstract: A casting or splinting device comprises a plastic casting body formed into various configurations for immobilizing a bone fracture or the like. The casting body is filled with small spherical granules having a smooth and slippery surface. The casting body is sealed and provided with an outlet port for aspirating air from within the casting body. Aspiration of air from the casting body results in a rigid casting or splint.

Abstract: Quick-release casts are presented. A cast can include multiple layers of material. An inner layer comprising a soft material contacts an affected limb and forms a padded layer. One or more additional layers can wrap around the padded layer to form nested tubular casts. The materials used to form the tubular casts are preferably impregnated with a curable compound capable of hardening to provide rigid support for the limb. Each of the tubular casts can wrap around the affect limb and have an overlapping seam that permanently seals in position upon curing of the curable compound. Each of the tubular casts can include a quick-release fastener that pre-joins sections of the tubular casts together before application to the limb. After the limb heals, the fastener can be undone to remove the cast quickly, quietly, and comfortably without causing undue distress to the patient.

Abstract: Described herein are temperature-controllable devices, and methods for using them. In some variations, the devices comprise a fluid passageway region, which is configured to allow a fluid to flow therethrough, and a splint. The splint may be moldable to at least a portion of a subject's anatomy, e.g., a nose. In other variations, the devices comprise a fluid passageway region configured to allow a fluid to flow therethrough, and an absorbent pad. In some variations, the devices comprise three layers, in which two of the layers form a fluid passageway region and the third layer forms a pocket or pouch. In this way, the pouch may be configured to receive at least one splint therein, e.g., in order to provide support to an injured area such as a nose. Methods for using the devices to treat an injured area are also described. Kits are also described.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a weft-knitted tubular spacer fabric for use in orthopaedic products comprising a first outer layer, a second outer layer, and an intermediate spacer layer integrated with said first and second outer layers, said tube having a length. According to invention the spacer fabric is knitted in a tubular form with a circumference less than 1000 mm, said tubular spacer fabric not being cut open in its length direction, thereby conforming seamlessly to a body part or limb of a wearer. Hereby, a tubular spacer fabric is obtained which most expediently conforms seamlessly to a body part or limb of a wearer. This has the advantage that the seamless tubular spacer fabric may be used directly as a wrap, a bandage, a support or may be used as liner under casting.

Abstract: A water-resistant orthopedic undercast sleeve that includes a tubular sheet material formed of extruded filaments having water-resistant properties and a thickness sufficient to provide both cushioning and moisture transport in a single layer between a cast and a limb onto which the sleeve is applied. The water resistant properties are achieved by at least one process, including a water-resistant filler, finish or coating applied to the filaments during extrusion, applying a water resistant finish to the finish during extrusion, applying a water resistant finish to the filaments during a subsequent spinning process, or coating the filaments with a water-resistant finish in a separate process. Moisture egress channels are formed in the sheet material for transporting moisture away from the limb, longitudinally along the length of the sleeve, and out of the space between the sleeve and cast.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for aerating a fracture sight that employs a membrane or covering that wraps and seals the outside of a breathable, orthopedic cast and typically includes an array of spaced apart protrusions on an inside surface to facilitate generally even airflow, thereby providing comfort and/or improved hygiene for the patient when an air moving device is connected to the apparatus and the air moving device is powered on.

Abstract: A low density fabric substrate for a medical bandaging product. The substrate has a plurality of longitudinally-extending voids formed in the fabric for permitting water penetration through the fabric thickness from one of the major faces to the other major faces. A reactive system is impregnated into or coated onto the substrate and remains stable when maintained in substantially moisture-free conditions and hardens upon exposure to sufficient moisture to form a rigid, self supporting structure. A soft, flexible protective material covers at least one of the major faces of the substrate along its length to provide a cushioning barrier between the substrate and the skin of a patient when the material is in use.

Abstract: A logic circuit that can reconfigure its functions in a nonvolatile manner and a single-electron transistor to be used in the logic circuits are provided. The logic circuit has a single-electron spin transistor that includes: a source; a drain; an island that is provided between the source and the drain, and has tunnel junctions between the island and the source and drain; and a gate that is capacitively coupled to the island. In this logic circuit, at least one of the source, the drain, and the island includes a ferromagnetic material having a variable magnetization direction.

Abstract: An ankle support that is adapted to securely hold the lower leg, ankle and foot of a wearer so as to provide reparative support thereof and an associated method of fabrication thereof. The ankle support includes an outer shell formed of a rigid material that conforms substantially to the configuration of the wearer and including an upper portion for at least partially surrounding the lower leg, an intermediate portion about the ankle and a lower portion that at least partially supports the foot; an inner liner formed of a flexible and conformable material and including an upper portion for at least partially surrounding the lower leg, an intermediate portion about the ankle and a lower portion that at least partially supports the foot and an interlocking mechanism including cooperating and interlocking members of the respective outer shell and inner liner that assist in retaining the inner liner within the outer shell.