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Research has not demonstrated whether multiple cups of negative pressure cupping therapy would induce interactions of hemodynamic responses between different areas. A multichannel near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) was used to assess oxyhemoglobin and deoxyhemoglobin oscillations in response to cupping therapy. Wavelet transform and wavelet phase (WPC) coherence were used to quantify NIRS signals. Three levels of negative pressure (−75, −225, and −300 mmHg) were applied to the gastrocnemius in 12 healthy adults. Oxyhemoglobin coherence between the two inside‐cup areas was higher at −75 mmHg compared to −300 mmHg in both metabolic (WPC = 0.80 ± 0.11 vs. 0.73 ± 0.13) and neurogenic (WPC = 0.70 ± 0.11 vs. 0.60 ± 0.17) controls. Deoxyhemoglobin coherence was also higher at −75 mmHg compared to −300 mmHg in both metabolic (WPC = 0.78 ± 0.11 vs. 0.66 ± 0.14) and neurogenic (WPC = 0.67 ± 0.11 vs. 0.58 ± 0.13) controls. Our study provides first evidence on the interaction of hemodynamic responses between the two cups of cupping therapy using WPC analysis of NIRS signals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To compare the safety and effectiveness of the combination of intelligent intrarenal pressure control platforms and flexible end ureteral access sheath combined with flexible ureteroscopic lithotripsy (FURL) for the treatment of renal stones less than 2 cm with day case mode. From November 2023 to July 2024, a prospective, randomized, double-blind, parallel-controlled study was conducted to recruit 60 patients with upper urinary tract calculi measuring ≤ 2 cm in longest diameter. A total of 60 eligible patients were consecutively enrolled. Based on a pre-generated random number table and allocation scheme using SPSS 27.0, patients were assigned to either the intelligent pressure control group (IFURL, n = 30) or the head bending group (BFURL, n = 30). Blinding measures were implemented for patients, data collectors, statisticians, and analysts, with the allocation results disclosed to the surgeons prior to the start of the procedure in the operating room. The operation duration for IFURL and BFURL was 52.50 (48.00, 60.00) vs. 46.00 (36.00, 56.25), respectively (p = 0.047). Stone free rate (SFR) on the first postoperative day was 73.33% vs. 93.33% for IFURL and BFURL, respectively (p = 0.038). While, SFR was no significant difference between the two groups after two months(90.00% vs. 96.67%, p = 0.301). One patient in IFURL was readmitted after discharge due to fever 2 days post-discharge, and improved after 2 days of anti-infection treatment. One patient in BFURL was readmitted due to lumbar and abdominal pain from urine extravasation, which improved after 3 days of anti-infection treatment. SFR of one-month post-surgery for renal calculi ≤ 2 cm treated with intelligent pressure control and flexible UAS combined with FURL in day surgery mode was similar, with low infection-related complications and rehospitalization rates, showing no statistical difference. However, the overall hospitalization costs for the BFURL was lower than IFURL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The penis is a structure that requires both anatomical and functional reconstruction. Being a three-dimensional structure that changes in volume, it presents a reconstructive challenge for the plastic surgeon. Currently, various alternatives are available for covering these complex defects, such as grafts, flaps, and dermal matrices. The objective of this study is to present a case report describing a complex post-traumatic penile defect in which three combined strategies were implemented for the first time (spiral full-thickness grafts, nanolipoinjection, and negative pressure therapy). These strategies have been described in the literature for defect coverage, achieving satisfactory anatomical and functional results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Suction caisson is a new offshore wind power foundation structure developed in recent years. Understanding its penetration characteristics is crucial to the successful application. A field test was conducted in the eastern waters of Rudong, Jiangsu Province, China, to investigate the penetration process of suction caisson. The test results demonstrate that suction caisson can penetrate smoothly to a predetermined elevation of seabed soil under the complex environmental loads, such as natural wind and wave currents. The inclination of the caisson is only 0.018° once the penetration process is complete. The pore water pressure at the outer skirt is primarily influenced by the tide level and drainage conditions of the contact soil layer during penetration, and the peak effective interface pressure at the skirt-soil interface decreases by about 46.7% due to negative pressure inside the skirt. Frictional fatigue effects are found at the skirt-soil interfaces. Meanwhile, the seepage reduction and squeezing induced resistance effects at the skirt-soil interface are the leading causes for the different distributions of effective interface pressure between the inner and outer skirts of the caisson. The findings of this study can guide the future penetration of suction caisson under challenging geological circumstances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To evaluate the sustainability of IOP reduction with continuous negative pressure application over an extended duration with use of the Ocular Pressure Adjusting Pump. Methods: Prospective, controlled, open-label, randomized, single site, pilot study. Subjects with primary open-angle glaucoma (OAG) were enrolled. One eye of each subject was randomized to receive negative pressure application; the fellow eye served as a control. The study eye negative pressure setting was programmed for 60% of the baseline IOP. Subjects wore the Ocular Pressure Adjusting Pump for 8 consecutive hours and IOP measurements occurred at 2-hour intervals for a total of 5 IOP measurements (08:00, 10:00, 12:00, 14:00, 16:00). Results: Nine subjects successfully enrolled and completed the study. The mean programmed negative pressure setting was − 12.0 mmHg. At baseline, the mean IOP in the study eye was 21.4 ± 4.3 mmHg. The mean IOP reduction in the study eye at hours 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8 was 8.1 (37%), 6.4 (28%), 6.3 (29%), 7.3 (34%) and 6.7 (31%), respectively. All IOP measurements during negative pressure application were reduced from baseline. There were no serious adverse events. Conclusion: The Ocular Pressure Adjusting Pump provides a sustained reduction in IOP while the device is worn with negative pressure applied with an IOP reduction exceeding 25% across 8 hours of continuous wear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this paper is to provide guidance on improving the lateral-torsional buckling strength of cold-formed, channel-section wall girts subjected to leeward wind loads, which cause the inner flange to compress. Additionally, it aims to identify the cross-sectional dimensions that most affect this strength. This is necessary due to the observation that the lateral-torsional buckling strength, with the inner flange in compression, of those members is significantly lower than that of the outer flange due to the difference in lateral bracing lengths, which leads to material waste. The available methods for improving the lateral-torsional buckling of girts when the inner flange is in compression were first summarized. Then, a parametric study was performed on three typical channel cross-sections. Sixty-three cases were created by varying flange width, lip length, cross-sectional depth, and thickness within practical ranges. These cases were solved manually for lateraltorsional buckling strengths using Microsoft Excel. The results showed that increasing the flange width is the most effective way to improve the flexural strength without considering the bracing effect of sheathings, Mnl, while increasing the crosssection thickness is the best for the strength considering the sheathing effect, Mn. Therefore, a new asymmetrical section with a larger inner flange width is recommended for girts when Mnl governs the strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Coal Geology & Exploration is the property of Xian Research Institute of China Coal Research Institute and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are an array of conditions affecting the human locomotor system, such as muscles, tendons, nerves, bones, and joints. It is related to physiological, kinesiological and biomechanical changes which result in pain, paresthesia, inflammation, weakness, tiredness, heaviness in limbs, fatigue, reduced range of motion and/or compression of peripheral nerves. The aim of this study was to investigate the therapeutic effects of positive (massage gum) or negative pressure (vacuum therapy) combined with laser on the health of workers with back pain, investigating pain intensity, shoulder mobility, spinal flexibility, life quality, and well-being. Twenty-one workers (female and male) aged between 20 and 60 years and who had medical referral for pain complaint in low back, neck and shoulders due to WMSDs participated in this study and were randomized into 3 groups: (1) Positive Pressure plus Laser Group (PPL): positive pressure using a massage gun was applied after the laser; (2) Negative Pressure plus Laser Group (NPL): negative pressure by vacuum was applied together with the laser and; (3) Control group (CG): without positive and negative pressure treatments or laser therapy. All workers received an educational booklet with postural orientation and suggestions focused on stretching exercises. Anamnesis, visual analogue scale (VAS) to assess pain intensity, and functional tests to assess spine flexibility and shoulders mobility were performed. Quality of life and well-being also were evaluated. The regions of lumbar, thoracic and cervical spine were treated once a week, totaling seven sessions. The main result was a reduced pain and an increased spinal flexibility, shoulders mobility, and quality of life in the PPL and NPL groups compared to the CG (p < 0.05). Furthermore, NPL showed better results compared to PPL (p < 0.05) for lumbar and cervical pain, as well as for right shoulder mobility. Therefore, laser combined with negative pressure massage was more effective in reducing lumbar and cervical pain and increasing shoulder mobility compared to positive pressure massage in workers. • The most workers remain sitting for long periods, indicating a factor which may lead to complaints of back pain. • The positive or negative pressure massage plus laser reduce pain, increase function and improve quality of life. • Negative pressure massage combined with laser showed better results for pain relief and shoulder mobility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Our study aimed to retrospectively analyze the patients who underwent the combination of negative pressure equipment and RIRS(NP-RIRS) for renal stones, and identified new high-risk factors related to infection. 456 patients with renal stones ≤ 3 cm underwent NP-RIRS in our department, from January 2022 to October 2023. All patients were divided into non-infection group(NIRIRS group) and infection group(IRIRS group) based on infection complications during the perioperative period. Establish a receiver operating characteristic curve(ROC curve)based on variables with statistical differences, and use the Jordan index to find the optimal cutoff value. Classify the data into two categories based on the best truncation value, and perform binary logistic regression analysis on the classified data. In the IRIRS group, there were 10 cases of fever (2.92%), 2 cases of sepsis (0.58%), and no cases of septic shock or death. The length and the CT value of the stone were 16 (13,21) vs. 22 (19,24) (p

Introduction and objective: Necrotizing fasciitis are life-threatening infections. A high index of suspicion is required for early diagnosis and management. Even if the treatment is adequate, surgical debridements leave large skin defects that are difficult to treat and control. VAC negative pressure systems allow for early healing of these tissue defects. Method: A systematic review was carried out in PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Scopus, CIHAHL and Scielo, without language restriction, including all articles published until July 31, 2023. Results: 11 original studies met the inclusion criteria (10 case reports and 1 case series), with a total of 18 patients with cervical fasciitis treated with VAC. A higher prevalence is shown in men, the main comorbidity is diabetes mellitus and the main origin is odontogenic. 100% of patients require surgical debridement, the average use of VAC is 25.7 days and none of the patients studied died. Discussion: The presentation of necrotizing fasciitis in the head and neck is rare, it associates an inflammatory response that requires multidisciplinary treatment. VAC helps promote healing by reducing the bacterial load, reduces the number of debridements, and shortens hospital stay. Conclusions: Negative pressure therapy has been shown to be an effective and safe therapeutic option for the treatment of necrotizing fasciitis in other regions. We consider that conducting a regulated study on its use at the cervical level could provide scientific evidence in favor of its use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lateral Epicondylalgia (LE) represents one of the most common injuries of the upper limb. It is necessary to find effective treatments that reduce pain and increase functionality. To determine the effects of an integrated intervention of Pulsed Negative Pressure Myofascial Vacuum Therapy (VT), Percutaneous Electrolysis (PE) and eccentric exercise (EE) in the treatment of LE compared versus Manual Therapy soft tissue mobilization (MT) and Ultrasound therapy (US) and EE. Single-blind randomized controlled trial. Forty participants, with unilateral LE, were randomly divided into two groups: VT + PE + EE group (n = 20) and MT + US + EE group (n = 20). The VT + PE + EE group received one weekly session for four weeks and a regimen of EE daily at-home, and the MT + US + EE group received 10 sessions over a period of two weeks and a regimen of EE daily at-home. Numerical pain rating scale (NPRS), range of motion (ROM) pressure pain threshold (PPT) and function (PRTEE questionnaire) were measured before treatment, at the end of treatment, and at one- and three-month follow-ups. The statistically significant improvements were found post-treatment, favoring the VT + PE group in pain intensity (p < 0.001; ES = 0.408), PRTEE-S Pain (p = 0.001; ES = 0.377), PRTEE-S Specific function (p = 0.004; ES = 0.306) and PRTEE-S Total (p = 0.001; ES = 0.355). The VT + PE + EE treatment showed greater effectiveness than the MT + US + EE treatment at immediate post-treatment, as well as at the one-month and three-months follow-up. VT and PE added to an EE program could be an effective treatment for pain, ROM, PPT, and function in patients with LE. • Electrolysis and Myofascial Vacuum Therapy in epicondylalgia. • Electrolysis, negative pressure & eccentric exercises: effective in epicondylalgia. • Electrolysis+negative pressure+exercise more effective than manual therapy+ultrasound. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to strengthen the desorption performance of basic aluminum sulfate desulfurization rich solution, a negative pressure desorption experimental system was first built, and then the desorption kinetic equation of negative pressure 60 kPa was established by means of kinetic tools, the micro-mechanism and macro-performance of negative pressure enhanced desorption were further studied by comparing with normal pressure desorption. The results show that the maximum instantaneous desorption rate appears at the initial time of desorption reaction. The desorption reaction rate r is proportional to [SO2-3] 1. 36 ± 0. 07 and [H + ] 0. 61 ± 0. 02, the activation energy Ea is (22. 78 ± 0. 12) kJ/ mol, and the pre-exponential factor A is (12 332. 58 ± 0. 36) L 0. 97/(mol 0. 97·min). The reaction rate constant k is the main factor affecting the desorption reaction rate. The Ea and A of negative pressure desorption at 60 kPa are 0. 55 times and 0. 01 times that of normal pressure desorption, respectively. The negative pressure effectively enhanced the macroscopic desorption performance of atmospheric desorption at the same temperature. The increase degree of desorption rate of negative pressure relative to atmospheric pressure at different temperatures reaches the maximum value of 25. 06% 、28. 44% and 21. 78% respectively at 50 min. The increase of desorption rate at the end of desorption is maintained at (3. 36 ± 0. 18)×10- 4 mol/(L·min). The research results provide reliable theoretical support for the application of basic aluminum desorption desulfurization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study attempts to overcome the challenges associated with the degradation of complex organic substances like corn straw hydrolysate in hydrogen recovery by strategically enriching functional microbial communities in single-chamber cubic microbial electrolysis cells (MECs). We applied negative pressure, using acetate or xylose as electron donors, to mitigate the hydrogen sink issues caused by methanogens. This innovative method significantly enhanced MEC performance. MECs enriched with xylose demonstrated superior performance, achieving a hydrogen production rate 3.5 times higher than that achieved by those enriched with acetate. Under negative pressure, hydrogen production in N-XyHy10 reached 0.912 ± 0.08 LH2/L MEC/D, which was 6.7 times higher than in the passive-pressure MECs (XyHy10). This advancement also resulted in substantial increases in current density (73%), energy efficiency (800%), and overall energy efficiency (540%) compared with MECs operated under passive pressure with 10% hydrolysate feed. The enrichment of polysaccharide-degrading bacteria such as Citrobacter and Pseudomonas under negative pressure underscores the potential for their industrial application in harnessing complex organic substrates for bioenergy production in single-chamber MECs. This is a promising approach to scaling up bioenergy recovery processes. The findings of this research study contribute significantly to the field by demonstrating the efficacy of negative pressure in enhancing microbial activity and energy recovery, thereby offering a promising strategy for improving bioenergy production efficiency in industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial muscles actuated by negative pressure offer significant benefits over those driven by positive pressure, such as high contraction ratios and improved safety, making them a promising option for various applications. This paper studies the contraction force characteristic of a bellows-like artificial muscle actuated by negative pressure. Initially, the structure, fabrication, and working principle of the artificial muscle were introduced. Subsequently, based on the force balance method, the contraction force was decomposed as the forces acted by the difference value of the inner and the outer pressures on the end plate, and the tension force derived from the adjacent contraction unit. To reduce complexity, the contraction process was divided into three phases according to the distinct contact conditions of the contraction units: uncontacted, locally contacted, and fully contacted with crests. The deformations of the contraction units in each phase were analyzed, and the corresponding contraction forces were derived. An experiment platform was constructed to test the force by changing the dimension parameters and pressure, obtaining the output force data during isobaric contraction. Finally, a comparison of the experimental and calculated results substantiated the aptness of the theorem model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The clogging induced by particle transport is often mentioned in the practice of vacuum preloading, but the percolation behavior of soft clay under negative pressure is still not clear. To understand this, the percolation behavior was investigated using an artificial paste of silica sand and kaolinite under different hydraulic pressures. The hydraulic conductivity under positive pressure (90 kPa) was about twice as high as that of negative pressure (−90 kPa). However, the transport capacity and leached particle size under negative pressure were more significant than those under positive pressure, despite the same tendency of the porosity under the positive or negative pressure. This is an interesting and paradoxical finding, suggesting complexity accompanying the erosion and clogging under the nominal hydraulic gradient, where a higher concentration of the hydraulic gradient occurs under negative pressure. The percolation under negative pressure––a self-adaptive process––included three elements: (1) the colloidal transport of clay minerals; (2) colloid accumulation and clogging in the seepage channel close to the outlet; and (3) a gradient concentration close to the outlet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deep sternal wound infection (DSWI) is a rare but potentially devastating complication of median sternotomy performed in cardiac surgery. This report summarizes the nursing management of two pediatric cases with a DSWI treated using Do It Yourself (DIY) negative pressure suction (DIY-NPS) after surgery. The technique maintains a continuous suction pressure of 75 mmHg and intermittently flushes small volumes of fluid to stimulate granulation tissue formation and control systemic infection. After the formation of fresh granulation tissue, both patients achieved successful wound healing and were discharged in good condition.

Negative pressure wound therapy or Vacuum therapy of a wound is a sort of therapy to aid wounds to heal by decreasing air pressure on the wound. A 69-year-old female was admitted due to large leiomyoma who underwent a total abdominal hysterectomy. During hospitalization, the incision site of the patient changed color and the patient had a mild fever with an initial diagnosis of necrotizing fasciitis. The patient had debridement four times and no remarkable improvement was achieved due to the extent and depth of the wound. Therefore, vacuum therapy was performed for the patient and after applying this procedure, the patient’s wound got smaller and healed with frequent follow–up and the administration of appropriate antibiotics. Wound care is one of the important steps after that total abdominal hysterectomy and vacuum therapy is useful and safe method for faster healing with satisfactory results for its wounds.

Background: Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT) is a therapeutic technique of applying sub-atmospheric pressure to a wound to reduce inflammation, manage exudate, and promote the formation of granulation tissue. It aims to optimise the natural physiological processes of wound healing for more effective recovery, and NPWT has emerged as a promising alternative to traditional dressings. Methods: The protocol followed in the study was prospectively registered. Appropriate search terms and Boolean operators were used to search electronic databases for relevant articles. Screening of articles was performed, and data extraction was done. The effect measure was chosen according to the nature of the variable, and the effect model was chosen as per heterogeneity. Forest plot was used to give visual feedback. Results: This study included 11 randomized controlled trials (13 publications) with a total of 1310 patients (1497 inguinal wounds). The NPWT group had lesser odds of developing surgical site infection (OR: 0.40; 95 % CI: 0.29–0.54; n = 1491; I2 = 20 %; p-value ≤0.00001) and lesser odds of needing surgical wound revision (OR: 0.48; 95 % CI: 0.26–0.91; n = 856; I2 = 0 %; p-value = 0.02) as compared to the normal dressing group. No significant difference was observed in duration of hospital stay, cost of care, wound healing time, or other complications. Conclusion: NPWT application in inguinal wounds significantly reduces the surgical site infection and the need for wound revision in patients who have undergone vascular surgery.

浸出车间第一蒸发器的有效利用对整体的蒸发效果和热能的节约有着重要的意义。旨在为工厂的生产稳定和工艺的不断改进提供理论参考，介绍了混合油的基本特性，引用了两种方法验证第一蒸发器是否得到有效利用，并对蒸馏工艺中需要注意的问题进行了总结。第一蒸发器是否得到有效利用的验证方法一是通过负压合理性进行验证，二是通过实际换热面积是否得到有效利用进行验证。工厂可以通过两种验证方法对第一蒸发器是否得到有效利用进行初步的判断，并对相关工艺条件作出相关调整。第一蒸发器的有效利用涉及多个工艺步骤，蒸发器进口混合油浓度、二次蒸汽中含粕量、混合油的杂质含量、冷凝系统的稳定性等因素在实际生产中均需被关注，以保证第一蒸发器的有效利用。Effective use of the first-stage evaporator in leaching plant is of great significance to the overall evaporation effect and heat energy saving. Aiming to provide theoretical reference for the production stability and the continuous improvement of the process, the basic characteristics of the miscella were introduced, two methods were cited to verify whether the first-stage evaporator was effectively utilized or not, and the problems that need to be paid attention to in the distillation process were summarised. The rationality of the effective use of the first-stage evaporator could be verified by the reasonableness of the negative pressure, and by examining whether the actual heat exchanger area was effectively utilized or not. Factory can make a preliminary judgement on the effective use of the first-stage evaporator through these two methods, and adjust the relevant process conditions accordingly. The effective use of the first-stage evaporator involves a number of process steps, and factors such as the evaporator inlet miscella concentration, the meal content in the secondary vapour, the impurity content in the miscella, the stability of condensing system and so on in the actual production need to be concerned to ensure the effective use of the first - stage evaporator.

Negative pressure pulmonary edema (NPPE) can result from the increased intrathoracic and hydrostatic pulmonary pressure associated with forced inspiration against acute closures of the upper respiratory tract in the postoperative period. The associated postoperative complications include atelectasis, pneumonia and embolism. It should be kept in mind that NPPE is the cause of desaturation in the postoperative period in young patients. In patients who have undergone upper respiratory tract surgery, edema in the upper respiratory tract increases the risk of collapse, although rapid clinical response can be achieved in such patients with early diagnosis and intervention. The primary goal of treatment is to ensure the oxygenation of the patient, and non-invasive mechanical ventilation (NIMV) can be used in addition to oxygen support in some cases. NIMV, however, is contraindicated in patients who have undergone upper respiratory tract surgery, in whom full clinical response can be achieved with high-flow oxygen, methylprednisolone and diuretic treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study we prepared a poly(lactic acid)/ethyl cellulose (PLA/EC) bioplastic blend film by melt pressing after solvent casting and investigated the optical, thermal, and mechanical properties in relation to the structural changes revealed by various microscopies and scattering measurements. Despite the immiscibility of PLA and EC, the blend film exhibited good optical transparency due to the close match in their refractive indices. A second run of differential scanning calorimetry during heating revealed a decrease in the glass transition temperature ( T g PLA ) and melting point ( T m PLA ) of PLA with EC although EC had the higher values. Thermomechanical analysis suggested that these decreases were due to the negative pressure generated due to the suppression of PLA shrinkage below T g EC and above T g PLA during cooling. Furthermore, ductile drawing of the blend film (70/30) at an optimal temperature of 70 °C above T g PLA resulted in a uniform whitening near 100% strain. Delamination at the interface between the PLA matrix and EC domain led to the formation of micrometer-sized oriented voids, which enhanced the refractive index difference in the phase-separated structure, thereby scattering light and achieving the uniform and oriented white blend film. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New suction endoscopes, ureteral access sheaths (UAS) and catheters aim to improve the efficacy of flexible ureteroscopy and optimize its safety. Suction UAS with non-flexible tips have shown promising results, especially in maintaining low intrarenal pressure, but also in removing small debris and reducing the "snow globe" effect. In addition, suctioning UAS with a flexible tip offers the advantage of being able to be navigated through the pyelocaliceal system to where the laser lithotripsy is performed. It can also remove small stone fragments when the flexible ureteroscope is retracted, using the Venturi effect. Direct in-scope suction (DISS) involves aspirating dust and small stone debris through the working channel of a flexible ureteroscope, thus regulating intrarenal pressure and improving visibility. Steerable aspiration catheters are other devices designed to increase stone clearance of the pyelocaliceal system. They are inserted under fluoroscopic guidance into every calyx after retraction of the flexible ureteroscope, alternating irrigation and aspiration to remove dust and small gravels. Combining flexible-tip suction UAS and the DISS technique may offer some advantages worth evaluating. The advantage of using these instruments to achieve a low intrarenal pressure was demonstrated. The true practical impact on the long-term stone-free status is a matter requiring further studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Railway Construction Technology is the property of Railway Construction Technology Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Food & Machinery is the property of Food & Machinery Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Abstract To compare the safety and effectiveness of the combination of intelligent intrarenal pressure control platforms (IPCP) and flexible ureteral access sheath (FUAS) combined with retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) for the treatment of renal stones less than 2 cm. We retrospectively collected 383 patients with renal stones who underwent RIRS in our department from June 2022 to October 2023. Inclusion criteria: stone length or the sum of multiple stone lengths ≤ 2 cm. Finally, 99 cases were included and divided into an IPCP group (n = 40) and FUAS group (n = 59) based on surgical methods. The main endpoint was the stone-free rate (SFR) at third months after surgery, with no residual stones or stone fragments less than 2 mm defined as stone clearance. The secondary endpoints were surgical time and perioperative complications, including fever, sepsis, septic shock, and perirenal hematoma. There was no statistically significant difference in general information between the two groups, including age, gender, body mass index, comorbidities, stone side, stone location, stone length, urine bacterial culture, and hydronephrosis. The operation time for IPCP group and FUAS group was 56.83 ± 21.33 vs 55.47 ± 19.69 min (p = 0.747). The SFR of IPCP group and FUAS group on the first postoperative day was 75.00% vs 91.50% (p = 0.024). The SFR was 90.00% vs 94.90% in the third month (p = 0.349).In IPCP group, there were 11 cases with stones located in the lower renal calyces and 17 cases in FUAS group. The SFR of the two groups on the first day and third months after surgery were 45.50% vs 88.20% (p = 0.014) and 63.60% vs 94.10% (p = 0.040), respectively, with statistical differences. For kidney stones ≤ 2 cm, there was no difference in SFR and the incidence of infection-related complications between IPCP and FUAS combined with RIRS, both of which were superior to T-RIRS. For lower renal caliceal stones, FUAS has a higher SFR compared to IPCP.

Negative pressure wound therapy or Vacuum therapy of a wound is a sort of therapy to aid wounds to heal by decreasing air pressure on the wound. A 69-year-old female was admitted due to large leiomyoma who underwent a total abdominal hysterectomy. During hospitalization, the incision site of the patient changed color and the patient had a mild fever with an initial diagnosis of necrotizing fasciitis. The patient had debridement four times and no remarkable improvement was achieved due to the extent and depth of the wound. Therefore, vacuum therapy was performed for the patient and after applying this procedure, the patient's wound got smaller and healed with frequent follow–up and the administration of appropriate antibiotics. Wound care is one of the important steps after that total abdominal hysterectomy and vacuum therapy is useful and safe method for faster healing with satisfactory results for its wounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The care of skin grafts in the penile shaft is challenging because of its cylindrical shape and constantly changing length and lie, which makes it difficult to apply uniform compression and ensure immobilization during the critical period of skin graft take. These challenges are difficult to overcome with conventional dressings. The authors describe a technique of applying a double-opposing negative pressure dressing to sandwich the penile shaft following reconstruction with a skin graft, which is simple to apply and addresses these issues. Adoption of this technique may allow the reconstructive surgeon to manage skin grafts on the penile shaft with greater ease and confidence of optimum graft take. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laser absorption spectroscopy for gas sensing basically employs an air pump located at the gas cell probe to draw in ambient gases, and the on-site gas sample is subsequently delivered for laboratory non-real-time analysis. In this study, an in situ all-fiber remote gas sensing strategy is proposed. The anti-resonant hollow-core fiber (AR-HCF) is used as the sensing fiber, and a 20 m middle-hole eccentric-core fiber (MH-ECF) is used as the conducting fiber. The remote ambient gases can be inhaled into the AR-HCF as a result of the negative pressure transmitted through the MH-ECF when pumping gas at the interface of the MH-ECF. Since the real-time monitoring of greenhouse gas emissions in industrial processes holds immense significance in addressing global climate change, the detection of CO2 is achieved with the TDLAS-WMS method, and the gas sensing performance of an all-fiber remote gas sensing structure (RGS) is experimentally validated. The response time t90 under the pumping condition is about 456 s, which is about 30 times faster than that of free diffusion. Allan deviation results for more than one hour of continuous monitoring indicate that the lowest detection limit for the all-fiber RGS is 0.0373% when the integration time is 184 s. The all-fiber remote gas sensing strategy also possesses the benefits of being applicable to multiplex, hazardous gas environment passive monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The local hemodynamic response after cupping therapy has been considered as a contributing factor for improving muscle tissue health; however, the effects of cupping pressure and duration on the spatial hemodynamic response have not been investigated. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to investigate the hemodynamic response inside and outside the cupping cup under various pressures and durations of cupping therapy. METHODS: A 3-way factorial design with repeated measures was used to investigate the main and interaction effects of the location (areas inside and outside the cup), pressure (- 225 and - 300 mmHg) and duration (5 and 10 min) on the hemodynamic response of the biceps muscle. A functional near-infrared spectroscopy was used to assess hemodynamic changes in 18 participants. RESULTS: A significant three-way interaction of the location, pressure, and duration factors was observed in oxyhemoglobin (p = 0.023), deoxy-hemoglobin (p = 0.013), and blood volume (p = 0.013). A significant increase was observed in oxyhemoglobin, blood volume, and oxygenation compared to pre-cupping (p < 0.05) in the area outside the cup. CONCLUSION: Our findings indicate that an appropriate combination of cupping pressure and duration can effectively affect the spatial hemodynamic response of the biceps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Chronic low back pain is a common musculoskeletal healthcare presentation with an expense of over $100 billion annually. The clinical effect of myofascial cupping on pain and function is not clear, especially when different cupping techniques are combined. The purpose of this case series was to explore changes in pain and function following local static and distal dynamic myofascial dry cupping treatments in patients with chronic low back pain. Case Descriptions Three adults from the general population received three ten-minute treatment sessions, 48 hours between each session, of static dry cupping to the low back followed by dynamic myofascial cupping of the quadriceps and hamstring musculature. Outcome measures were taken at two different time points within one-week per participant. Subjective measures included the numeric pain rating scale and the Oswestry Disability Index, objective measures included passive straight leg raise measurements, and pressure pain threshold. Results and Discussion Local static combined with distal dynamic myofascial cupping reduced pain, pain sensitivity and perceived disability, and improved hamstring muscle extensibility in all three participants. These encouraging results support the initiation of a larger controlled trial aimed at investigating the efficacy of combined dry cupping interventions to treat musculoskeletal dysfunction and pain. Level of Evidence 4 (case series) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To compare the safety and effectiveness of the combination of intelligent intrarenal pressure control platforms (IPCP) and flexible ureteral access sheath (FUAS) combined with retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) for the treatment of renal stones less than 2 cm. We retrospectively collected 383 patients with renal stones who underwent RIRS in our department from June 2022 to October 2023. Inclusion criteria: stone length or the sum of multiple stone lengths ≤ 2 cm. Finally, 99 cases were included and divided into an IPCP group (n = 40) and FUAS group (n = 59) based on surgical methods. The main endpoint was the stone-free rate (SFR) at third months after surgery, with no residual stones or stone fragments less than 2 mm defined as stone clearance. The secondary endpoints were surgical time and perioperative complications, including fever, sepsis, septic shock, and perirenal hematoma. There was no statistically significant difference in general information between the two groups, including age, gender, body mass index, comorbidities, stone side, stone location, stone length, urine bacterial culture, and hydronephrosis. The operation time for IPCP group and FUAS group was 56.83 ± 21.33 vs 55.47 ± 19.69 min (p = 0.747). The SFR of IPCP group and FUAS group on the first postoperative day was 75.00% vs 91.50% (p = 0.024). The SFR was 90.00% vs 94.90% in the third month (p = 0.349).In IPCP group, there were 11 cases with stones located in the lower renal calyces and 17 cases in FUAS group. The SFR of the two groups on the first day and third months after surgery were 45.50% vs 88.20% (p = 0.014) and 63.60% vs 94.10% (p = 0.040), respectively, with statistical differences. For kidney stones ≤ 2 cm, there was no difference in SFR and the incidence of infection-related complications between IPCP and FUAS combined with RIRS, both of which were superior to T-RIRS. For lower renal caliceal stones, FUAS has a higher SFR compared to IPCP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have successfully synthesized a series of Bi-doped BaFe2As2 high-quality single crystals for the first time. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns show an expansion of lattice parameter c with Bi doping, indicating a negative pressure effect. By investigating the resistivity, a Fermi liquid (FL) to non-Fermi liquid (NFL) crossover is observed from normal state to antiferromagnetic order state, accompanied by three superconducting transitions labeled as SC I, SC II and SC III, which are supposed to be induced by three superconducting realms with various Bi concentrations. Thus, we propose that the NFL behavior is closely related to the presence of superconductivity. The magnetic susceptibility measurements further speculate that the SC I and SC III phases should exhibit filamentary superconductivity while the SC II exhibits a possible bulk superconductivity of TC~7 K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to ensure the most reasonable distribution of wheat seeds in the field to improve seeding quality and uniformity, a set of negative pressure precision seed-metering device was designed, which shares a hollow shaft. Every seedmetering device can sow two rows of wheat. By the STAR-CCM+, the analysis of nephogram, vectogram and streamline graph showed that more ideal structural parameters of the seed-metering device are 0.5 mm width of the slit sucking seed (WSS), 150-200 mm diameter of the seed-metering disc (DSD), 2.0 mm axial depth of air chamber in the seed-metering disc (ADS), and arcshaped cross-section shape of the ring groove sucking seed (CSGS). Single-factor test on the JPS-12 test-bed analyzed the influence of the CSGS, WSS, DSD, and ADS on the qualified index (Iq), multiple index (Imul), miss index (Imiss) and coefficient of variation of qualified seed spacing (CV). Through the orthogonal on the JPS-12 test-bed, it is found that the influence of vacuum negative pressure and seed-metering device shaft speed is significant on the Iq, Imiss and Imul. Based on these, the structural parameters of the seed-metering device were optimized. The DSD is 180 mm, the WSS is 0.7 mm, the ADS is 2.5 mm, and the CSGS is arc-shaped. The optimization seed-metering device was tested on the JPS-12 test-bed. The Iq is 86.66%, the Imiss is 5.09%, the Imul is 8.25%, and the CV is 24.50%. These testing results fully coincide with the standard JB/T 10293-2013 Specifications of single seed drill (precision drill). The seed-metering device meets fully the requirements for wheat precision seeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dark energy is an elusive concept, which has been introduced two decades ago in order to make the acceleration of the universe a comprehensible phenomenon. However, the nature of this energy is far from being understood, both from a fundamental as well as an observational way. In this work, we study cosmological consequences of the existence of particles (which we called "ewkons" in a previous work) which are quasi distinguishable, obey unorthodox statistics, and have an equation of state similar to many existent dark energy candidates (including negative relation between pressure and energy density). We find an effective scalar field description of this ewkon fluid, and obtain cosmological solutions for the dark energy-dominated epoch. This can be considered as a one-parameter class of dark energy models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A proportional valve is one of the important parts used by the hydraulic control system to make precise operations. Flow control and direction are functions of proportional directional control valves. Despite this being important there are some problems, such as in flow control. This operation may cause the deficient performance of the actuator and the system. This paper presents the improvement of the performance hydraulic proportional directional control valve. The work suggests that the proportional valve would only be able to control flow in one direction, either metering in or out. Accordingly, the proposed work arrangement suggests many types of setups, by adding two-way directional control valves. Firstly, to know how the performance is deficient, some case is studied analytically. To demonstrate that, the prepared proposal has been made. The setup of the proposed arrangement is achieved. The arrangement is subject to simulation and tested practically to study the performance. The work included the electronic setup. As a result, the work leads to the improvement of the operation of proportional valves to control flow in one direction. The result of this investigation is to think about a new sort of valve that might be created to function better. As well as can also be made more flexible operations, depending on the type of load effect and flow control needed. In conclusion, the valve operation can be used as meter-in or meter-out flow controlling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Objective: To design a multifunctional cooking experimental platform with negative pressure and superheated steam, providing consumers with greener, healthier, and more diverse cooking methods. Methods: The research status of integrated cooking equipment was analyzed, and the application status of superheated steam and negative pressure technology in the food industry was summarized and analyzed. The performance parameters of the multifunctional cooking experimental platform were determined. Based on the characteristics of each function of the experimental platform, the cooking chamber, furnace door and other components were designed, and the overall plan of the experimental platform was developed. Results: The multi-functional cooking experimental platform developed has four functions: negative pressure, steam, microwave, and baking. It can achieve negative pressure extraction of -28 kPa and direct injection of 390 ℃ superheated steam into the cavity. The heating effect of hot air and microwave is good. Conclusion: The multifunctional cooking experimental platform developed has high feasibility and practicality.

The energy-volume curve of a crystalline solid is critically examined in terms of the mechanical contributions of its constituent atoms. In addition to the usual analysis in the positive compression regime, our computational approach covers the tensile behavior in the negative pressure region up to the spinodal stability limit. Using the rich polymorphism of ZnO as a test-bed example, we propose two atomic decomposition schemes that are able to recover the bulk moduli and the critical strengths of four ZnO phases providing an intriguing interpretation of the chemical bonding network as a parallel circuit of mechanical resistors. Our scheme also allows the identification of the role played by the cation and anion in the densification of the high-pressure polymorphs and up to the material rupture points. This approach may help in the quest for tailored materials with outstanding mechanical performance.