Disposable Device Research Articles

Assessing Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems Device Type Accurately in Surveys.

The electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) market is highly heterogeneous and changing rapidly in the United States, making classification of devices complicated, especially for surveys. We assessed the percentage of concordant responses between self-reported device type and device type reported by manufacturer/retailer sites for three ENDS brands. Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health Study wave 5 (2018-2019) asked adult ENDS users about their ENDS device type with the following multiple-choice question: "What kind of electronic nicotine product [is/was] it?" with response options: (1) A disposable device, (2) A device that uses replaceable prefilled cartridges, (3) A device with a tank that you refill with liquids (4) A mod system, and (5) Something else. Participants using only one ENDS device and reporting brands of JUUL (n = 579), Markten (n = 30), or Vuse (n = 47) were included. Responses were dichotomized as "concordant=1" (prefilled cartridge for these three brands) and "discordant = 0" (other responses) to assess the concordance. The overall concordance between self-reports and manufacturer/retail sites was 81.8% (n = 537). This percentage was 82.7% (n = 37) among Vuse users, 82.6% (n = 479) among JUUL users, and 69.1% (n = 21) among Markten users. Almost one in three people who use Markten did not indicate that their device uses replaceable prefilled cartridges. While at least 70% concordance could be acceptable, collecting more information about device type (eg, liquid container (pod/cartridge/tank), refillability; and submitting pictures) may improve the accuracy of the information. This study is particularly relevant for researchers analyzing smaller samples for example when examining disparities. Monitoring the characteristics of ENDS accurately in population-based studies is critical for regulatory authorities to understand ENDS toxicity, addiction, health effects, and use behaviors at the population level. There is evidence that higher concordance can be achieved with other questions- and methods. Adjusting survey questions about ENDS device type (eg, more descriptive response options, inclusion of separate questions asking about tank, pod, cartridge) and potentially including photos of participants' devices may help to classify ENDS device types more accurately.

A Novel Incisionless Disposable Vaginal Device for Female Stress Urinary Incontinence: Efficacy and Quality of Life.

This clinical study sought to evaluate the possible clinical effectiveness and practicality of URINO, an innovative, incisionless, and disposable intravaginal device, designed for patients suffering from stress urinary incontinence. A prospective, multicenter, single-arm clinical trial was carried out, involving women diagnosed with stress urinary incontinence who used a self-inserted, disposable intravaginal pessary device. Comparisons were made between the results of the 20-minute pad-weight gain (PWG) test at baseline and visit 3, where the device was applied. After 1 week of device usage, compliance, satisfaction, the sensation of a foreign body, and adverse events were assessed. Out of 45 participants, 39 completed the trial and expressed satisfaction within the modified intention-to-treat group. The average 20-minute PWG of participants was 17.2±33.6 g at baseline and significantly dropped to 5.3±16.2 g at visit 3 with device application. A total of 87.2% of participants exhibited a reduction ratio of PWG by 50% or more, surpassing the clinical trial success benchmark of 76%. The mean compliance was recorded as 76.6%±26.6%, the average visual analogue scale score for patient satisfaction was 6.4±2.6, and the sensation of a foreign body, measured on a 5-point Likert scale, was 3.1±1.2 after 1 week of device use. No serious adverse events were reported; there was 1 instance of microscopic hematuria and 2 cases of pyuria, all of which recovered. The investigated device demonstrated significant clinical effectiveness and safety for patients with stress urinary incontinence. It was easy to use, showing favorable patient compliance. We propose that these disposable intravaginal pessaries could potentially be an alternative treatment for patients with stress urinary incontinence who are seeking nonsurgical options or are unable to undergo surgery. Trial Registration: The study was registered as a clinical trial (KCT0008369).

A low-cost and disposable protective intubation device during coronavirus disease-19 pandemic

A low-cost and disposable protective intubation device during coronavirus disease-19 pandemic

How has Expenditure on Nicotine Products Changed in a Fast-Evolving Marketplace? A Representative Population Survey in England, 2018-2022.

In the last 5 years, there has been a dramatic shift in the types of nicotine products being purchased. This study aimed to estimate how much users spend on types of cigarettes and alternative nicotine products (e-cigarettes, nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), heated tobacco, and nicotine pouches) and describe changes between 2018 and 2022. Monthly representative cross-sectional survey in England. 10 323 adults who smoked cigarettes or used alternative nicotine reported their average weekly expenditure on these products, adjusted for inflation. Smokers spent £20.49 [95% CI = 20.09-20.91] on cigarettes each week (£27.66 [26.84-28.50] and £15.96 [15.49-16.28] among those who mainly smoked manufactured and hand-rolled cigarettes, respectively), e-cigarette users spent £6.30 [5.99-6.55] (£8.41 [7.17-9.78], £6.42 [5.58-7.39], and £5.93 [5.64-6.30] among those who mainly used disposable, pod, and refillable devices, respectively), NRT users £6.11 [5.53-6.69], and heated tobacco users £13.87 [9.58-20.09]. Expenditure on cigarettes grew by 10% from September 2018 to July 2020, then fell by 10% from July 2020 to June 2022. These changes coincided with a 13% reduction in cigarette consumption and a 14% increase in the proportion mainly smoking hand-rolled cigarettes. Expenditure on e-cigarettes was stable between 2018 and late 2020, then rose by 31% up to mid-2022. Expenditure on NRT increased slowly in 2018-2020 (+4%) and more quickly thereafter (+20%). Inflation-adjusted expenditure on cigarettes has fallen since 2020, such that the average smoker in England currently spends the same on cigarettes each week as in 2018. This has been achieved by smoking fewer cigarettes and switching to cheaper hand-rolled cigarettes. Expenditure on alternative nicotine has increased above inflation; users spent around a third more on these products in 2022 than between 2018-2020. People in England continue to spend substantially more on smoking cigarettes than using alternative nicotine products. The average smoker in England spends around £13 a week (~£670 a year) more than people using only e-cigarettes or NRT. The average expenditure on manufactured cigarettes is double that of hand-rolled cigarettes.

A holistic approach for the selection of forensic DNA swabs

In the present study, we compared the performance of five different ISO 18385 certified forensic swabs for DNA sampling in practice over a time period of five months. Comparisons were made for DNA profiling success rates, measured as the percentage of CODIS (Combined DNA Index System) suitable profiles as well as for practical suitability during sampling at the scene, measured through a survey among collaborators. More than forty members of our crime scene investigation (CSI) unit took part in the test series and provided structured feedback concerning different aspects of swab handling. A total number of 1094 “touch” DNA samples have been subjected to DNA analysis. Swabs performed significantly different in terms of DNA profiling success rates. We also observed significant differences in DNA extraction efficiency between swabs. The evaluation by the collaborators of various aspects of handling differed significantly between swabs. We can assume that a more convenient handling decreases the risk of contamination or sample mislabelling and increases sampling efficiency and staff satisfaction. Our results demonstrate that the selection of disposable sampling devices such as forensic swabs for DNA sampling should be made based on a holistic approach. To be able to select the best performing swab for a given combination of CSI and DNA laboratory procedures, it might not be sufficient to only perform DNA extraction comparisons and trace sampling under controlled laboratory conditions.

Patulin-imprinted origami 3D-ePAD based on graphene screen-printed electrode modified with Mn–ZnS quantum dot coated with a molecularly imprinted polymer

We developed a novel, compact, three-dimensional electrochemical paper-based analytical device (3D-ePAD) for patulin (PT) determination. The selective and sensitive PT-imprinted Origami 3D-ePAD was constructed based on a graphene screen-printed electrode modified with manganese-zinc sulfide quantum dots coated with patulin imprinted polymer (Mn–ZnS QDs@PT-MIP/GSPE). The Mn–ZnS QDs@PT-MIP was synthesized using 2-oxindole as the template, methacrylic acid (MAA) as a monomer, N,N′-(1,2-dihydroxyethylene) bis (acrylamide) (DHEBA) as cross-linker and 2,2′-azobis (2-methylpropionitrile) (AIBN) as initiator, respectively. The Origami 3D-ePAD was designed with hydrophobic barrier layers formed on filter paper to provide three-dimensional circular reservoirs and assembled electrodes. The synthesized Mn–ZnS QDs@PT-MIP was quickly loaded on the electrode surface by mixing with graphene ink and then screen-printing on the paper. The PT-imprinted sensor provides the greatest enhancement in redox response and electrocatalytic activity, which we attributed to synergetic effects. This arose from an excellent electrocatalytic activity and good electrical conductivity of Mn–ZnS QDs@PT-MIP, which improved electron transfer between PT and the electrode surface. Under the optimized DPV conditions, a well-defined PT oxidation peak appears at +0.15 V (vs Ag/AgCl) using 0.1 M of phosphate buffer (pH 6.5) containing 5 mM K3Fe(CN)6 as the supporting electrolyte. Our developed PT imprinted Origami 3D-ePAD revealed excellent linear dynamic ranges of 0.001–25 μM, with a detection limit of 0.2 nM. Detection performance indicated that our Origami 3D-ePAD possesses outstanding detection performance from fruits and CRM in terms of high accuracy (%Error for inter-day is 1.11%) and precision (%RSD less than 4.1%). Therefore, the proposed method is well-suited as an alternative platform for ready-to-use sensors in food safety. The imprinted Origami 3D-ePAD is an excellent disposable device with a simple, cost-effective, and fast analysis, and it is ready to use for determining patulin in actual samples.

Efficacy Evaluation of Cu- and Ag-Based Antibacterial Treatments on Polypropylene Fabric and Comparison with Commercial Products

Filter masks are disposable devices intended to be worn in order to reduce exposure to potentially harmful foreign agents of 0.1–10.0 microns. However, to perform their function correctly, these devices should be replaced after a few hours of use. Because of this, billions of non-biodegradable face masks are globally discarded every month (3 million/minute). The frequent renewal of masks, together with the strong environmental impact of non-biodegradable plastic-based mask materials, highlights the need to find a solution to this emerging ecological problem. One way to reduce the environmental impact of masks, decrease their turnover, and, at the same time, increase their safety level is to make them able to inhibit pathogen proliferation and vitality by adding antibacterial materials such as silver, copper, zinc, and graphene. Among these, silver and copper are the most widely used. In this study, with the aim of improving commercial devices’ efficacy and eco-sustainability, Ag-based and Cu-based antibacterial treatments were performed and characterized from morphological, compositional, chemical–physical, and microbiological points of view over time and compared with the antibacterial treatments of selected commercial products. The results demonstrated the good distribution of silver and copper particles onto the surface of the masks, along with almost 100% antibacterial capabilities of the coatings against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, which were still confirmed even after several washing cycles, thus indicating the good potential of the developed prototypes for mask application.

Development and validation of a flexible fetoscope for fetoscopic laser coagulation.

Fetoscopic laser coagulation for twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome is challenging for anterior placenta due to the rigidity of current tools. The capacity to keep entry port forces minimal is critical for this procedure, as is optimal coagulation distance and orientation. This work introduces technological tools to this end. A novel fetoscope is presented with a rigid shaft and a flexible steerable segment at the distal end. The steerable segment can bend up to 90[Formula: see text] even when loaded with a laser fiber. An artificial pneumatic muscle makes such acute bending possible while allowing for a low-weight and disposable device. The flexible fetoscope was validated in a custom-made phantom model to measure visual range and coagulation efficacy. The flexible fetoscope shows promising results when compared to a clinical rigid curved fetoscope to reach anterior targets. The new fetoscope was then evaluated in vivo (pregnant ewe) where it successfully coagulated placental vasculature. The flexible fetoscope improved the ability to achieve optimal coagulation angle and distance on anteriorly located targets. The fetoscope also showed the potential to lead fetoscopic laser coagulation and other fetal surgical procedures toward safer and more effective interventions.

Applicability of RANS models and pressure drop in edge subchannels for 19-pin wire-wrapped fuel bundle channel in CiADS

The accelerator-driven subcritical system has a strong transmutation ability and high inherent safety, and it is internationally recognized as the most promising long-life nuclear waste disposal device. This study involves the construction of a Visual Hydraulic ExperimentaL Platform (VHELP) for the purpose of evaluating the applicability of Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) models and analyzing the pressure distribution within the fuel bundle channel of China initiative accelerator-driven system (CiADS). Measurements of thirty differential pressures in edge subchannels within a 19-pin wire-wrapped fuel bundle channel were obtained under different conditions using deionized water. The pressure distribution in the fuel bundle channel at Reynolds numbers of 5000, 7500, 10,000, 12,500, and 15,000 was simulated using Fluent. The results show that RANS models obtained accurate results, and the shear stress transport k-ω model provided the most accurate prediction of the pressure distribution. The difference between the results of the Shear stress transport (SST) k-ω model and experimental data was the smallest, and the maximum difference was ±5.57%. Moreover, the error between the experimental data and numerical results of the axial differential pressure was smaller than that of the transverse differential pressure. The pressure periodicity in axial and transverse directions (one pitch) and a relatively three-dimensional pressure measurements were studied. The static pressure fluctuated and decreased periodically as the z-axis coordinate increased. These results can facilitate research on the cross-flow characteristics of liquid metal-cooled fast reactors.

Microneedle‐Integrated Device for Transdermal Sampling and Analyses of Targeted Biomarkers

Currently available point‐of‐care systems for body fluid collection exhibit poor integration with sensors. Herein, the design of a disposable device for interstitial fluid (ISF) extraction as well as glucose, lactate, and potassium ion (K+) monitoring is reported on. It is minimally invasive and appropriate for single use, minimizing the risk of infection to the user. This microscale device contains a 3D‐printed cap‐like structure with a four‐by‐four microneedle (MN) array, bioreceptor‐modified carbon fiber (CF)‐sensing surface, and negative pressure convection technology. These features are incorporated within a compact, self‐contained, and manually operated microscale device, which is capable of withdrawing ≈3.0 μL of ISF from the skin. MN arrays applied with an upward driving force may increase the ISF flow rate. Moreover, functionalized CF working electrodes (WE1, WE2, WE3) are shown to selectively detect lactate, glucose, and K+ with high sensitivities of 0.258, 0.549, and 0.657 μA μm−1 cm−2 and low detection limits of 0.01, 0.080, 0.05 μm, respectively. Ex vivo testing on porcine skin is used to detect the ISF levels of the biomarkers. The microscale device can be a replacement for current point‐of‐care diagnostic approaches.

Ultrasensitive bacterial sensing using a disposable all-in-one amperometric platform with self-noise cancellation

The early detection of very low bacterial concentrations is key to minimize the healthcare and safety issues associated with microbial infections, food poisoning or water pollution. In amperometric integrated circuits for electrochemical sensors, flicker noise is still the main bottleneck to achieve ultrasensitive detection with small footprint, cost-effective and ultra-low power instrumentation. Current strategies rely on autozeroing or chopper stabilization causing negative impacts on chip size and power consumption. This work presents a 27-μW potentiostatic-amperometric Delta-Sigma modulator able to cancel its own flicker noise and provide a 4-fold improvement in the limit of detection. The 2.3-mm2 all-in-one CMOS integrated circuit is glued to an inkjet-printed electrochemical sensor. Measurements show that the limit of detection is 15 pArms, the extended dynamic range reaches 110 dB and linearity is R2 = 0.998. The disposable device is able to detect, in less than 1h, live bacterial concentrations as low as 102 CFU/mL from a 50-μL droplet sample, which is equivalent to 5 microorganisms.

The Straw Pressure Gradient and Gravity (SPGG) Technique: A Safe and Cost-Effective Technique for Laparoscopic Suction.

Suction devices are frequently used during laparoscopic surgery. However, their cost and limitations can be significant, depending on the clinical case, theatre setting and national health system. Furthermore, the continuous need to reduce the costs of the consumables in minimally invasive surgical procedures and their environmental burden creates extra pressure on the healthcare systems globally. Therefore, we present a new technique for laparoscopic suctioning, the Straw Pressure Gradient and Gravity (SPGG) technique. It is a safe, cost-effectiveand environmentally friendly technique compared to traditional suction devices. The technique involves using a sterile, single-use Suction Catheter 12-16 French after positioning the patient according to the targeted collection. The catheter is inserted via the laparoscopic port nearest the collection and directed using laparoscopic graspers. The outer end needs to be clamped to avoid fluid spillage, and the catheter tip is placed in the collection. Then after the clamp is released, the fluid will be successfully drained due to the pressure gradient into a pot placed at a lower level than the intra-abdominal collection. Minimal wash can be performed via the gas vent by using a syringe. SPGG is a safe and easy-to-learn technique that requires similar skills as placing an intra-abdominal drain during laparoscopy. It is softer than rigid, traditional suction devices and atraumatic. It can be used for suction, irrigation, collection of fluid for sampling and as a drain in case of an intraoperative indication. SPGG is a cost-effective device as it is cheaper than the average disposable suction device system and has multiple uses, which can significantly decrease the annual cost of laparoscopies. It can also reduce the number of consumables and lighten the environmental burden of laparoscopic procedures.

Validation of an indirect nonthermal plasma sterilization process for disposable medical devices packed in blisters and cartons

AbstractNowadays, the majority of the processes used to sterilize disposable medical devices have several drawbacks in terms of safety, energy consumption, and costs. In this work, a sterilization method based on an indirect nonthermal plasma treatment is presented. The main advantages of this method are low environmental impact, absence of harmful chemical compounds' storage, and backward compatibility relative to production, sterilization, and shipping chain. The sterilization of disposable devices, enclosed inside their protective packaging, is achieved by exploiting reactive species produced by a Dielectric Barrier Discharge plasma reactor. Various devices have been subjected to a 2‐h treatment, achieving complete sterilization based on USP and EU‐PHARMA protocols. Pretreatment of carton packaging has been necessary to guarantee a complete sterilization process.

Occupational Exposure during Intraperitoneal Pressurized Aerosol Chemotherapy Using Doxorubicin in a Pig Model

BackgroundThis study evaluated occupational exposure levels of doxorubicin in healthcare workers performing rotational intraperitoneal pressurized aerosol chemotherapy (PIPAC) procedures. MethodsAll samples were collected during PIPAC procedures applying doxorubicin to an experimental animal model (pigs). All procedures were applied to seven pigs, each for approximately 44 min. Surface samples (n = 51) were obtained from substances contaminating the PIPAC devices, surrounding objects, and protective equipment. Airborne samples were also collected around the operating table (n = 39). All samples were analyzed using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. ResultsAmong the surface samples, doxorubicin was detected in only five samples (9.8%) that were directly exposed to antineoplastic drug aerosols in the abdominal cavity originating from PIPAC devices. The telescopes showed concentrations of 0.48–5.44 ng/cm2 and the trocar showed 0.98 ng/cm2 in the region where the spraying nozzles were inserted. The syringe line connector showed a maximum concentration of 181.07 ng/cm2, following a leakage. Contamination was not detected on the surgeons' gloves or shoes. Objects surrounding the operating table, including tables, operating lights, entrance doors, and trocar holders, were found to be uncontaminated. All air samples collected at locations where healthcare workers performed procedures were found to be uncontaminated. ConclusionsMost air and surface samples were uncontaminated or showed very low doxorubicin concentrations during PIPAC procedures. However, there remains a potential for leakage, in which case dermal exposure may occur. Safety protocols related to leakage accidents, selection of appropriate protective equipment, and the use of disposable devices are necessary to prevent occupational exposure.

Biodegradable and Flexible Thermoplastic Composite Graphite Electrodes: A Promising Platform for Inexpensive and Sensitive Electrochemical Detection of Creatine Kinase at the Point-of-Care.

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is the main cause of death worldwide, and the time of diagnosis is decisive for the effectiveness of the treatment of patients with AMI. Creatine kinase-myocardial band (CK-MB) has a predominance and high affinity with myocardial tissue, making it considered one of the main biomarkers for the diagnosis of AMI. In this work, we report a novel biodegradable composite material based on a polymer blend of Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) and Poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PHBV:Ecoflex) and graphite microparticles for sensitive and selective electrochemical detection of CK-MB. The morphological and physicochemical characterizations of the thermoplastic composite material revealed a homogeneous and synergistic distribution of the graphite microparticles through the blend structure, providing low defects and high electrical conductivity with high electron transfer kinetics (k0 = 3.54 × 10-3 cm s-1) features with adequate flexibility for point-of-care applications. The portable and disposable devices were applied to detect CK-MB using the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) technique in a relevant clinical concentration ranging from 5.0 ng mL-1 to 100.0 ng mL-1 and presented a limit of detection of 0.26 ng mL-1 CK-MB. The selectivity of the sensor was confirmed by testing the potential interference of major biomolecules found in biofluids and other relevant macromolecules. The accuracy and robustness were assessed by addition and recovery protocol in urine and saliva samples without sample pretreatment and demonstrated the potential of our method for rapid and decentralized tests of AMI. In addition, the study of the thermal, biological, and photodegradation of the devices after being used was also carried out, aiming at the disposal of the material more sustainably.

MP62-14 EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF TWO DISPOSABLE CIRCUMCISION SUTURE DEVICES FOR CIRCUMCISION IN ADULTS: A PROSPECTIVE COMPARATIVE MULTICENTER STUDY

You have accessJournal of UrologyCME1 Apr 2023MP62-14 EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF TWO DISPOSABLE CIRCUMCISION SUTURE DEVICES FOR CIRCUMCISION IN ADULTS: A PROSPECTIVE COMPARATIVE MULTICENTER STUDY Alessia Celeste Bocchino, Esaú Fernández-Pascual, Carlos Toribio-Vázquez, Celeste Manfredi, Guillermo Urdaneta, Carlos Balmori, Andrea Cocci, Nicola Mondaini, and Juan Ignacio Martínez-Salamanca Alessia Celeste BocchinoAlessia Celeste Bocchino More articles by this author , Esaú Fernández-PascualEsaú Fernández-Pascual More articles by this author , Carlos Toribio-VázquezCarlos Toribio-Vázquez More articles by this author , Celeste ManfrediCeleste Manfredi More articles by this author , Guillermo UrdanetaGuillermo Urdaneta More articles by this author , Carlos BalmoriCarlos Balmori More articles by this author , Andrea CocciAndrea Cocci More articles by this author , Nicola MondainiNicola Mondaini More articles by this author , and Juan Ignacio Martínez-SalamancaJuan Ignacio Martínez-Salamanca More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000003320.14AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Disposable circumcision suture devices have been developed to optimize outcomes of circumcision, one of the most common surgical procedures worldwide. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of two different disposable circumcision suture devices (DCSDs) and compare their surgical outcomes. METHODS: A prospective comparative multicenter study was performed between November 2019 and October 2021. Patients with congenital or acquired phimosis were included. Patients underwent circumcision using a DCSD (CircCurerTM or the ZSR® device) according to the surgeon preference and device availability. Postoperative follow-up was scheduled at 1 week and 2 months for all patients. RESULTS: A total of 215 patients were enrolled, 120 underwent circumcision using CircCurerTM (Group A) and 95 patients using ZSR® (Group B). No differences were observed in baseline characteristics between the two groups (p>0.05). Mean (SD) operative time was 7.0 (2.5) minutes with no significant difference between the groups (p=0.678). Seven patients (5.8%) in Group A and 2 (2.1%) in Group B required accessory stitches (p=0.156). Four subjects (3.3%) in Group A and 1 (1.1%) in group B presented hematoma (p=0.266). Surgical site infection occurred in 1 (0.8%) in Group A and 2 (2.1%) in Group B (p=0.413). Metal clips fell out spontaneously in 39 patients (32.5%) of Group A and 47 (49.5%) of Group B (p<0.001). Median (IQR) Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) for postoperative pain was 2.5 (0-4) in Group A and 2.0 (0-4) in Group B (p=0.284). At 2 months, patients of both groups reported a median (IQR) satisfaction of 9 (8-9) points (p=0.469). CONCLUSIONS: DCSDs appear to allow effective and safe circumcision, with short operative times, uncommon and mild complications, and high patient satisfaction; although there are several devices with some relevant differences on the market. Source of Funding: None © 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 209Issue Supplement 4April 2023Page: e867 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Alessia Celeste Bocchino More articles by this author Esaú Fernández-Pascual More articles by this author Carlos Toribio-Vázquez More articles by this author Celeste Manfredi More articles by this author Guillermo Urdaneta More articles by this author Carlos Balmori More articles by this author Andrea Cocci More articles by this author Nicola Mondaini More articles by this author Juan Ignacio Martínez-Salamanca More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...

Multifunctional Starch-Based Sensor with Non-Covalent Network to Achieve "3R" Circulation.

With the consumption of disposable electronic devices increasing, it is meaningful but also a big challenge to develop reusable and sustainable materials to replace traditional single-use sensors. Herein, a clever strategy for constructing a multifunctional sensor with 3R circulation (renewable, reusable, pollution-reducing biodegradable) is presented, in which silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) with multiple interactions are introduced into a reversible non-covalent cross-linking network composed of biocompatible and degradable carboxymethyl starch (CMS) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) to simultaneously obtain high mechanical conductivity and long-term antibacterial properties by a one-pot method. Surprisingly, the assembled sensor shows high sensitivity (gauge factor up to 4.02), high conductivity (0.1753 S m-1 ), low detection limit (0.5%), long-term antibacterial ability (more than 7 days), and stable sensing performance. Thus, the CMS/PVA/AgNPs sensor can not only accurately monitor a series of human behavior, but also identify handwriting recognition from different people. More importantly, the abandoned starch-based sensor can form a 3R circulation. Especially, the fully renewable film still shows excellent mechanical performance, achieving reusable without sacrificing its original function. Therefore, this work provides a new horizon for multifunctional starch-based materials as sustainable substrates for replacing traditional single-use sensors.

Comparison of the efficacy and perioperative pain between vessel sealing and suture ligation for median celiotomy in canine ovariohysterectomy.

Vessel sealing (VS) is used widely in human medicine and veterinary practice during laparoscopic surgery; however, few studies have investigated VS in canine ovariohysterectomy (OHE) using the median celiotomy approach. This study aimed to compare the effect of VS and suture ligation (SL) on surgical time, blood loss, and perioperative pain in canine OHE through median celiotomy. Twenty-eight dogs were randomly and equally assigned into two groups that underwent surgery either by SL at both the ovarian pedicle and uterus or using a disposable VS device. The short form of the Glasgow composite pain scale (SF-GCPS) and the Colorado state university canine acute pain scale (CSU-CAP) were used to determine pain pre-operatively (baseline); at 30 min; and at 1, 2, 3, 4, 24, and 72 h post-operatively. Perioperative physiological parameters, surgical duration, and percentage of blood loss were recorded. Repeated measures analysis was performed to determine the differences in all parameters among time-related tasks and between both groups. A significant difference was defined at p < 0.05. The duration from identification of the first ovary to uterus removal was shorter in VS than in SL (p < 0.05). No clinically relevant differences were found among physiological variables. Both groups showed higher SF-GCPS and CSU-CAP values after surgery compared with baseline. The SF-GCPS in SL at 1 h was higher than in VS (p < 0.05). Two dogs in the SL group required additional post-operative rescue analgesia. No differences were found between the groups in terms of blood loss. The use of a VS device in dogs undergoing OHE celiotomy decreased post-operative pain and shortened the perioperative time, making it an effective alternative technique for this common surgery. However, the VS device must be applied 2-3 times in the same location during the OHE procedure to prevent technical failure. This disposable device was reused up to 5 times for economic reasons without device failure. Soft tissue damage during OHE using the VS device should be investigated in a future prospective study.

Low‐Cost and Biodegradable Thermoelectric Devices Based on van der Waals Semiconductors on Paper Substrates

We present a method to fabricate handcrafted thermoelectric devices on standard office paper substrates. The devices are based on thin films of WS2, Te, and BP (P‐type semiconductors) and TiS3 and TiS2 (N‐type semiconductors), deposited by simply rubbing powder of these materials against paper. The thermoelectric properties of these semiconducting films revealed maximum Seebeck coefficients of (+1.32 ± 0.27) mV K−1 and (−0.82 ± 0.15) mV K−1 for WS2 and TiS3, respectively. Additionally, Peltier elements were fabricated by interconnecting the P‐ and N‐type films with graphite electrodes. A thermopower value up to 6.11 mV K−1 was obtained when the Peltier element were constructed with three junctions. The findings of this work show proof‐of‐concept devices to illustrate the potential application of semiconducting van der Waals materials in future thermoelectric power generation as well as temperature sensing for low‐cost disposable electronic devices.

SVINnovation Challenge: Fostering Innovation in Vascular and Interventional Neurology

SVINnovation Challenge: Fostering Innovation in Vascular and Interventional Neurology