Hard Stone Research Articles

In Vitro Comparison of Pulsed-Thulium:YAG, Holmium:YAG, and Thulium Fiber Laser.

Objective: To characterize the pulse characteristics and risk of fiber fracture (ROF) of the pulsed-Thulium:YAG (p-Tm:YAG) laser and to compare its ablation volumes (AVs) against Holmium:Yttrium-Aluminium-Garnet (Ho:YAG) laser and Thulium fiber laser (TFL). Materials and Methods: p-Tm:YAG (100 W-Thulio, Dornier-Medtech©, Germany) was characterized using single-use 272 μm core-diameter-fibers. p-Tm:YAG characterization included pulse shape, duration, and peak power (PP) studies. ROF was assessed after 5 minutes of continuous laser activation (CLA) at five decreasing fiber bend radii (1, 0.9, 0.75, 0.6, and 0.45 cm). p-Tm:YAG, Ho:YAG (120 W-Cyber-Ho, Quanta®, USA), and TFL (60 W-TFLDrive, Coloplast®, Denmark) AVs were compared using a 20-mm linear CLA at 2 mm/second velocity in contact with 20 mm3 hard stone phantoms (HSP) and soft stone phantoms (SSP) (15:3 and 15:5 water to powder ratio, respectively) fully submerged in saline at 0.5 J-20 Hz or 1 J-10 Hz. After CLA, phantoms underwent three-dimensional (3D) micro-scanning (CT) and subsequent 3D segmentation to estimate the AVs, using 3DSlicer©. Each experiment was performed in triplicate. Results: p-Tm:YAG presents a uniform pulse profile in all of the available preset modes. PP ranged from 564 to 2199 W depending on pulse mode. No laser fiber fracture occurred at any bend radius. p-Tm:YAG achieved similar mean AVs to TFL and Ho:YAG for HSP (8.96 ± 3.1 vs 9.78 ± 1.1 vs 8.8 ± 2.8 mm3, p = 0.67) but TFL was associated with higher AVs compared with p-Tm:YAG and Ho:YAG (12.86 ± 1.85 vs 10.12 ± 1.89 vs 7.56 ± 2.21 mm3, p = 0.002) against SSP. AVs for HSP increased with pulse energy for p-Tm:YAG and Ho:YAG and (11.56 ± 1.8 vs 6.36 ± 0.84 mm3 and 11.27 ± 1.98 vs 6.34 ± 0.55 mm3, p = 0.03 and p = 0.02), whereas AVs for SSP were similar across laser settings for all laser sources. AVs with TFL were similar across laser settings for both phantom types. Conclusion: p-Tm:YAG combines intermediate PP between Ho:YAG and TFL, a uniform pulse profile, no ROF with increasing deflection and effective ablation rates. Further clinical studies are needed to confirm these in vitro results.

Propagation characteristics of show sea seismic wave in different underwater media

The propagation characteristics of sea seismic wave (SSSW) in different underwater media are different. This study mainly focuses on the propagation characteristics of SSSW in different underwater media to improve the detection ability of SSSW mines. The propagation of SSSW in different underwater media, including clay, sandy clay, sandstone, mudstone, hard stone, and dolomite, is simulated using the staggered grid finite difference method. The dispersive energy maps of different underwater media are extracted using the f-k dispersive energy extraction method. Compared with the results of Scholte wave dispersion characteristic equations, the simulation results are consistent with the theoretical results. At the same time, the attenuation law of the SSSW train is obtained. The results provide a theoretical basis for developing SSSW mine fuses.

Fabrication of acoustically and physically validated artificial stones to natural kidney stones under shock waves and laser lithotripsy

To present an efficient method for fabricating artificial kidney stones with acoustic and physical properties to assess their fragmentation efficiency under shock waves and laser lithotripsy for very hard stones. The mixture ratio of super-hard plaster and water was adjusted to produce artificial kidney stones for comparison with > 95% human genuine calcium oxalate monohydrate (COM) and uric acid (UA) stones. Acoustic and physical properties, such as wave speed, stone hardness, density, compressive strength, and stone-free rates under shock-wave and laser lithotripsy, were assessed. The longitudinal wave speed of artificial stones prepared at a plaster-to-water ratio of 15:3 closely matched that of COM stones. Similarly, the transverse wave speed of artificial stones prepared at a plaster-to-water ratio of 15:3 to 15:5 aligned with that of COM stones. Stone fragmentation using shock-wave of artificial stones with mixed ratios ranging from 15:3 to 15:5 resembled that of COM stones. The Vickers hardness was similar to that of artificial stones produced with a mixing ratio of 15:3, similar to that of COM stones, while that of artificial stones produced with a mixing ratio of 15:5 was similar to that of UA stones. Density-wise, artificial stones with mixing ratios of 15:4 and 15:5 resembled COM stones. Compressive strength test results did not confirm the similarity between natural and artificial stones. The stone fragmentation using laser showed that stones produced with higher moisture content at a mixing ratio of 15:6 were similar to COM stones. This novel method for fabricating artificial kidney stones could be used to provide reliable materials for lithotripsy research.

Bilateral ureteral stones; factors affecting treatment decision.

To evaluate certain factors that may affect the decision-making process for the rational management approach in cases presenting with bilateral ureteral stones. A total of 153 patients presenting with bilateral ureteral stones from 6 centers were evaluated and divided in three groups. Group 1 (n:21) Patients undergoing DJ stent insertion in one ureter and ureterorenoscopic (URS) lithotripsy for the contralateral ureteral stone. Group 2 (n:91), URS lithotripsy for both ureteral stones and Group 3 (n:41) patients undergoing bilateral DJ stent insertion. The outcomes of the procedures and the relevant patient as well as stone related factors have been comparatively evaluated in three groups. While associated UTI rates and serum creatinine levels were significantly higher in bilateral DJ group, previous URS history was found to be significantly higher in cases undergoing bilateral URS than those undergoing bilateral DJ stenting. URS was performed significantly more often in cases with lower ureteral stones and DJ stenting seems to be more rational approach in upper ureteral stones. In patients with lower ureteral stones, larger and harder stones, endourologists tended to perform URS as the first option. Decision making for a rational approach in cases with bilateral ureteral stones my be challenging. Our findings demonstated that serum creatinine levels, associated UTI, location and the hardness of the stone and previous ureteroscopy anamnesis could be important factors in making a decision between JJ stenting and ureteroscopic stone extraction in emergency conditions.

PROFILE OF NEPHROLITHIASIS PATIENTS TREATED WITH MINI-PERCUTANEOUS NEPHROLITHOTOMY (MINI-PCNL): A SINGLE CENTER EXPERIENCE IN JAMBI, INDONESIA

Objective: This study aims to describe the characteristics of patients undergoing mini-PCNL at our center in Jambi, Indonesia. Material & Methods: This is a descriptive study involving patients with kidney stones treated with mini-PCNL during 2017 – 2021 in Jambi. The selection of the study subjects was using total sampling method. All patients had a medical history taken and a physical examination performed prior to surgery. The procedure was performed by three operators in one referral district hospital. Results: From 2017 to 2021, a total of 188 mini-PCNL procedures were performed at our center for the removal of kidney stones. However, only 186 cases were included in this study after excluding 2 due to incomplete data. The mean age of patients in this study was 49.3 years old (ranging from 12–87 years old) with the majority being male (101/165 [61.21%]). Of 186 cases, a total of 175 cases had no residual stone and only 11 had residual stone (stone-free rate [SFR] 94.08%). Most patients presented with hydronephrosis, and DJ stent placement was performed in 44 out of 186 cases. The SFR decreased as the stone size increased. Conclusion: Mini-PCNL proves to be a valuable choice for managing kidney stones, especially for medium-sized and hard stones, leading to enhanced patient results and reduced post-operative complications. Keywords: Kidney stone, mini-PCNL, stone free rate.

Analysis of Knock Down Weir Stability Using Matlab Software

During the rainy season, there are still puddles of water in the village due to overflowing rivers and flooding due to landslides of embankments. Therefore, it is necessary to control the water and handle it quickly and precisely. Emergency Weir, which is ready to be installed, can be used to overcome this problem. It is named Knock Down Weir as Emergency Weirs that are effective, efficient, practical, can be arranged vertically, horizontally, can be stored and reassembled with 4 Forms of Arrangement and proven by Stability value > 1.5 based on the test on the support of wall roughness: hard stone, gravel, sand, clay and using Matlab application analysis. The simulation uses a model arrangement, namely: 1). Model L filled with sand + water; 2). The model I filled with sand + water; 3). Model L filled with water; 4). Model L filled with water. The result based on the Matlab application is obtained that the arrangement of model no. 1 (L shape) is the most stable against hard rock, gravel, sand and clay as support.

Experimental Traceological Research on Drilling Solid Minerals

Purpose. In archaeological sites of the Early Iron Age and the Hunno-Sarmatian period, there are very similar bead sets, among which carnelian products stand out. Carnelian has a high hardness coefficient and its drilling, even with modern tools, it is extremely technological and time-consuming. The important detail of the drilling process is the configuration of the cutting part of the tool, which leaves specific traces on the stone. In order to reconstruct this main operation, we conducted a series of experimental traceological studies, including the study of traces on the walls of the channels of beads from archaeological sites and on the channels of experimental samples.Results. In one series, six experiments were conducted using six drills made of copper rod. As a result of the research drills with rounded cylindrical and tubular shapes left similar traces fixed on artifacts. It is worth noting that according to written sources, carnelian was drilled using diamond as an abrasive. Experimental work has shown that carnelian can also be processed and drilled with corundum.Conclusion. Each technological operation is associated with the practical experience and knowledge of the properties of the mineral, in particular its crystal structure. The process of making beads from such hard stones as carnelian, agate, quartz, jasper, turquoise is one of the most labor-intensive and time-consuming. The craftsmen had to know the properties of the material they were working with as well as it was necessary for the minimum set of tools, consisting of a drill, reamer, tools for grinding and, polishing and various types of abrasives. Despite the complexity of their production, stone beads were intended for trade and exchange operations belong to the mass production of ancient stone-cutting workshops. Obviously, this was due to the high consumer demand for the jewelry they made.

The optimal Holmium laser settings for disintegration of cystine and calcium oxalate monohydrate stones: In vitro study

ABSTRACT Objective Disintegrating cystine and calcium oxalate monohydrate stones present a formidable challenge owing to their hardness and distinct composition. This study aimed to establish optimal laser settings for these hard stones lithotripsy. Patients and Methods Cystine and calcium oxalate monohydrate stones were extracted from two patients. Two experiments were conducted in vitro by utilizing a 272 μm laser fiber with variable settings to disintegrate the cystine and calcium oxalate monohydrate stones. In the first experiment, energy was adjustable while frequency was constant, whereas the second experiment involved constant energy with adjustable frequency on each type of stone and each experiment was repeated three times to ensure robustness and reliability. Results Our findings indicated that for cystine stones, use of higher total power with high energy and low frequency proved to be effective. Conversely, for calcium oxalate monohydrate stones, settings involving higher total power with low energy and high frequency demonstrated superior efficacy and safety. Conclusion Holmium (Ho: YAG) laser settings with higher total power, high energy, and low frequency effectively disintegrate cystine stones despite increased heat, which was measured by a thermometer with a thermocouple. For calcium oxalate monohydrate stones, higher total power, high frequency, and low energy settings are recommended and safe.

Long-term outcomes of choledochoduodenostomy for choledocholithiasis: increased incidence of postoperative cholangitis after total or distal gastrectomy.

Choledochoduodenostomy (CDD) is performed to treat choledocholithiasis (CDL) cases where endoscopic stone removal is difficult. Recognizing CDD characteristics is important for CDL treatment planning. A total of 116 patients, including 33 patients ≥ 80years old (29 with previous total gastrectomy, 19 with previous distal gastrectomy, 20 with built-up stones, 19 with periampullary diverticulum, 10 with confluence stones, 8 with repetitive recurrent stones, 4 with hard stones, 3 with endoscopic retrograde cholangiography [ERC] not available due to lack of cooperation, 2 with a history of pancreatitis post-ERC, and 2 in whom ERC could not be performed due to a disturbed anatomy) underwent CDD for CDL. Postoperative complications and long-term outcomes were evaluated. The in-hospital mortality rate was 0%. The morbidity (grade ≥ IIIA according to the Clavien-Dindo classification) rates in the elderly (≥ 80years old) and non-elderly (51-79years old) patients were 3.0% (1/33) and 2.4% (2/83), respectively (p = 0.85). Long-term complications included cholangitis in eight (7%) patients, of which three cases were repetitive and seven had an operative history of total or distal gastrectomy. The incidence of postoperative cholangitis after total or distal gastrectomy was 15% (7/48), which was significantly higher than that involving other causes (1.5%, 1/68; p < 0.01). Two patients with cholangitis after total gastrectomy experienced early recurrence of lithiasis at 2 and 9months after surgery. CDD is safe, even in elderly patients. However, a history of total gastrectomy or distal gastrectomy may increase the incidence of postoperative cholangitis.

Study on hard rock particle size division based on Mars rover traction performance

To simplify the dynamic solution of the contact between the rigid wheel of Mars rover and the spherical hard stone on the mixed terrain, a model for hard stone particle size division based on the traction performance of Mars rover is proposed. On the mixed terrain of hard rock and soft soil, the movement of hard rock will affect the traction performance of the rigid wheels of Mars rover. According to the different effects of the hard stones on the traction performance of rigid wheels, stones are divided into three types. The static sinkage of rigid wheels is calculated according to the Bekker bearing model, and the calculation formula of sliding sinkage of rigid wheels and hard stone sinkage is proposed. The type of hard stones is determined by comparing the sinkage of hard stones and rigid wheels. Finally, three kinds of hard stones with slip ratios of 0.2, 0.5, and 0.7 were substituted into the single wheel simulation platform and the soil trough experiment platform for simulation and experiment. The results show that on mixed terrain, the error of simulation and experimental results of fixed hard stones under three slip rates is below 5.4%, the error of drawbar pull in simulation and experimental results of movable hard stones is above 126%, and the error of simulation and experimental results of scattered small hard stones is below 2%, which verifies the effectiveness of the hard stone particle size division model.

The Stonecutter

This “Stonecutter’s Credo” serves as a philosophy about perseverance and persistence in our work. A stonecutter works for hours or days cutting down hard stones into desired shapes.

MP68-02 WHAT ARE THE OPTIMAL LASER SETTINGS FOR STONE DUSTING USING THE POPCORN TECHNIQUE

You have accessJournal of UrologyCME1 Apr 2023MP68-02 WHAT ARE THE OPTIMAL LASER SETTINGS FOR STONE DUSTING USING THE POPCORN TECHNIQUE Oleksandr Chepeliuk, Asaf Shvero, Dorit Zilberman, Zohar Dotan, and Nir Kleinmann Oleksandr ChepeliukOleksandr Chepeliuk More articles by this author , Asaf ShveroAsaf Shvero More articles by this author , Dorit ZilbermanDorit Zilberman More articles by this author , Zohar DotanZohar Dotan More articles by this author , and Nir KleinmannNir Kleinmann More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000003331.02AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: When evoking stones with a laser (Dusting) it is common to use the "popcorn" technique to complete the dusting. Today there are advanced and much more powerful laser machines, which allows the use of a variety of intensities, rates, and modulations. The purpose of the study is to check what are the most effective holmium laser settings while performing the popcorn technique. METHODS: Stones were brewed from gypsum mixtures in three density levels. Their density was measured by CT imaging. 5 stones of size 2.8-3.3 mm were filtered and put into test tubes, and their weight was measured. Under continuous washing, "popcorn" stone dusting was performed with a holmium laser using a 272 micron fiber, using the popcorn technique for 2 minutes at intensities 0.3J/80Hz, 0.5J/40Hz, 1J/20Hz, 1J/ 30Hz, 1.5J/20Hz. With/without Moses modulation (distance). 3 repetitions were performed for each intensity. The mass of the remaining stone was weighed, and the stones larger than 1 and 2 mm were counted. The efficacy and evaporation rates of the stones were compared. RESULTS: The density of the hard, medium and soft stones was 2095,995,548 HU respectively. The average rate of evaporation in soft, medium and hard stones was 68%, 50%, 47%. In soft stones it was found that the rate of vaporisation was the largest in the laser settings of 1J/30Hz without Moses (93%). There were no stones >2 mm left, and the number of crumbs between 1-2 mm was 3. In medium density stones, the rate of vaporisation was the greatest in the settings 1.5J/20Hz with Moses (71%). No stones >2 mm remained, and the number of stones between 1-2 mm was 3. In hard stones, it was found that the rate of vaporisation was the greatest in the laser settings of 1J/30Hz with Moses (76%). There were no stones >2 mm left, and the number of stones between 1-2 mm was 7. Moses modulation did not change the total vaporisation rate (p=0.256). CONCLUSIONS: When using the "popcorn" technique for laser dusting of kidney stones, we found different efficiency rates between the different laser settings. The most effective laser settings were in soft stones 1J/30Hz without Moses, in medium 1.5J/20Hz with Moses, and in hard stones 1J/30Hz with Moses. Source of Funding: Sheba Medical Center © 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 209Issue Supplement 4April 2023Page: e952 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Oleksandr Chepeliuk More articles by this author Asaf Shvero More articles by this author Dorit Zilberman More articles by this author Zohar Dotan More articles by this author Nir Kleinmann More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...

Pengaruh Diuretik Terhadap Stone-Free Rate Batu Ureter dengan Pneumatic Lithotripsy

Pneumatic Lithotripsy (PL) is considered effective in fragmenting hard stones, and this procedure can also be performed transurethrally and percutaneously on large stones. This study aimed to see the percentage of Stone Free Rate (SFR) by administering force diuretics to ureteral stones that were crushed using PL. Previous studies have found that intravenous loop diuretic administration is effective, safe, and efficient in obtaining a much higher percentage of SFR and can reduce the average number of sessions per stone during extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL). We identified study subjects from early July-September 2022 and obtained as many as 38 study subjects (SP) with stones in the distal ureter &lt;20mm. Subjects were randomly selected and divided into two groups: the group given diuretics (K2) and not given (K1). With a 90% confidence degree and 15% sampling error, based on Lameshow's formula, 30 SP can be observed; eight other subjects were excluded because they experienced a decrease in systolic pressure &gt;25% (5 SP) and the remaining stones came out without splitting (3SP). The results obtained were SFR levels that were statistically significant (p&lt;0.05) and clinically using the Mann-Whitney statistical test. Administration of diuretics to patients with distal ureteral stones undergoing URS with Pneumatic Lithotripsy is safe and effective as an anti-retropulsion method. It is the strategy of choice in centers that do not provide laser lithotripsy or flexible ureteroscope.

Knowledge domains and emerging trends of microglia research from 2002 to 2021: A bibliometric analysis and visualization study.

Microglia have been identified for a century. In this period, their ontogeny and functions have come to light thanks to the tireless efforts of scientists. However, numerous documents are being produced, making it challenging for scholars, especially those new to the field, to understand them thoroughly. Therefore, having a reliable method for quickly grasping a field is crucial. We searched and downloaded articles from the Web of Science Core Collection with "microglia" or "microglial" in the title from 2002 to 2021. Eventually, 12,813 articles were located and, using CiteSpace and VOSviewer, the fundamental data, knowledge domains, hot spots, and emerging trends, as well as the influential literature in the field of microglia research, were analyzed. Following 2011, microglia publications grew significantly. The two prominent journals are Glia and J Neuroinflamm. The United States and Germany dominated the microglia study. The primary research institutions are Harvard Univ and Univ Freiburg, and the leading authors are Prinz Marco and Kettenmann Helmut. The knowledge domains of microglia include eight directions, namely neuroinflammation, lipopolysaccharide, aging, neuropathic pain, macrophages, Alzheimer's disease, retina, and apoptosis. Microglial phenotype is the focus of research; while RNA-seq, exosome, and glycolysis are emerging topics, a microglial-specific marker is still a hard stone. We also identified 19 influential articles that contributed to the study of microglial origin (Mildner A 2007; Ginhoux F 2010), identity (Butovsky O 2014), homeostasis (Cardona AE 2006; Elmore MRP 2014); microglial function such as surveillance (Nimmerjahn A 2005), movement (Davalos D 2005; Haynes SE 2006), phagocytosis (Simard AR 2006), and synapse pruning (Wake H 2009; Paolicelli RC 2011; Schafer DP 2012; Parkhurst CN 2013); and microglial state/phenotype associated with disease (Keren-Shaul H 2017), as well as 5 review articles represented by Kettenmann H 2011. Using bibliometrics, we have investigated the fundamental data, knowledge structure, and dynamic evolution of microglia research over the previous 20 years. We hope this study can provide some inspiration and a reference for researchers studying microglia in neuroscience.

Pipe dent evaluation by acoustic emission during hydraulic pressure tests

Buried pipelines transporting gas and oil are influenced by surrounding soil during long time service. In many cases they are locally deformed by soil movement, especially by hard stones. External local pressure makes limited deformation of original shape of pipe diameter in time. Those types of local deformations are known as a dents. At those areas, the insulation layer is usually damaged and small defects (like cracks) are created in dents. Colonies of small stress corrosion cracks are observed. In this contribution, the evaluation of typical dents is investigated by hydraulic pressure tests, including the fatigue tests. Acoustic emission was used to detect the behaviour of dent in pipe section until the limit state. AE monitoring during pressure tests gave very clear answer of defect activity vs. loading pressure. Parallel to this monitoring, another NDT method, MMM was used with promising results.

Holmium: Yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser lithotripsy: Is there a difference in ablation rates between short and long pulse duration?

The high-power holmium: yttrium-aluminum-garnet lasers provide a wide variety of settings for stone disintegration. The aim of this in vitro study is to evaluate the effect of short and long pulse duration on ablation rates on urinary stones. Two types of artificial stones were created by BegoStone™ with different compositions (15:3 and 15:6, stone/water ratio). Stones with a 15:3 and 15:6 powder-to-water ratio were defined as hard and soft stones, respectively. Lithotripsy was performed with different laser settings using a custom-made in vitro model consisting of a 60 cm long and 19 mm diameter tube. The ablation rate is defined as the final total mass subtracted from the initial total mass and divided to the time of treatment. Stone ablation rates were measured according to different laser settings with total power of 10W (0,5J-20 Hz, 1J-10 Hz, 2J-5 Hz) and 60W (1J-60 Hz, 1,5J-40 Hz, 2J-30 Hz). Higher pulse rates and higher total power settings were related to higher ablation rates. Short pulse duration was more effective on soft stones, whereas long pulse duration was more effective on hard stones. For the same power settings, the highest energy-lowest frequency combination resulted in higher ablation rate in comparison to the lowest energy-higher frequency combination. Finally, short and long pulse average ablation rates do not differ so much. Regardless of the stone type and pulse duration, utilization of higher power settings with higher energies increased the ablation rates. Higher ablation rates were demonstrated for hard stones using long pulse duration, and for soft stones with short pulse duration.

RIRS with disposable or reusable scopes: does it make a difference? Results from the multicenter FLEXOR study.

With several single-use ureteroscopes now available, our aim was to analyze and compare data obtained globally from high-volume centers using both disposable and reusable flexible ureteroscopes and see if indeed in real-world practice either scope has a distinct advantage. Retrospective analysis was performed on the FLEXOR registry, which was created as a TOWER group (Team of Worldwide Endourological Researchers, research wing of the Endourological Society) endeavor. Patients who underwent retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) for renal stones from January 2018 to August 2021 were enrolled from 20 centers globally. A total of 6663 patients whose data were available for analysis were divided into Group 1 (Reusable scopes, 4808 patients) versus Group 2 (Disposable scopes, 1855 patients). The age and gender distribution were similar in both groups. The mean stone size was 11.8 mm and 9.6 mm in Groups 2 and 1, respectively (p < 0.001). Group 2 had more patients with >2 cm stones, lower pole stones and of higher Hounsfield unit. Thulium fiber laser (TFL) was used more in Group 2 (p < 0.001). Patients in Group 2 had a slightly higher stone-free rate (SFR) (78.22%) and a lower number of residual fragments (RFs) compared with Group 1 (p < 0.001). The need for further treatments for RF and overall complications was comparable between groups. On multivariate analysis, overall complications were more likely to occur in elderly patients, larger stone size, lower pole stones, and were also more when using disposable scopes with longer operative time. RFs were significantly higher (p < 0.001) for lower pole, larger, harder, multiple stones and in elderly. Our real-world practice observations suggest that urologists choose disposable scopes for bigger, lower pole, and harder stones, and it does indeed help in improving the single-stage SFR if used correctly, with the appropriate lasers and lasing techniques in expert hands.

Butterflies

Butterflies

Love of Stone

Love of Stone Lin Yi-Han (bio) Translation from the Chinese Click for larger view View full resolution Click for larger view View full resolution [End Page 26] Translator's note: The following text by Lin Yi-Han, like her novel Fang Si-Chi's First Love Paradise, is based on the theme of what it's like to dwell in a body that carries trauma, and what it means to live in a mind where literature, memories, and vulnerability interweave with one another. Lin's language is unique and devastatingly beautiful. Her language and metaphors are rich in lyrical tradition, from the Chinese classics, chengyu expressions, and lines of cultural history. Translating Lin's language is like perusing blood in our veins, feeling that heartbeat against our chests, and letting our emotions flow with our bodies. As a translator who has spent over three years with Lin Yi-Han's works, her writings not only brought me closer to topics of gender, of the rights to our bodies, but also to the importance of discussions about mental health. How does our relationship with our minds change over time, especially after trauma? How do we live with the rhythms of our emotions when our bodies remember agony from the past? What kind of change can we bring to our bodies and minds, and what can we talk about with one another, in order to not otherize the journey we have been through with our minds? What does love mean to us, or shape in the need of us, in our paths to find that love, that sense of belonging ever again? Content warning: The following work references suicidal thoughts and sexual assault. – Jenna Tang This was my everyday life: I would walk to the subway station, listen to Tae-yeon's new album on the train, and then walk to the coffee shop from the station. I always started listening to the first song; like reading a novel without a bookmark, it was as though I'd memorized the first sentence of the book and would never know the ending. I watched the barista wash a pot of Ethiopian coffee beans. What does it mean to wash something? To dry something under the sun? Drifting among the words was satisfactory enough, and there was no need for an answer. Just like my life. I would first peruse a novel of exactly two hundred pages, no more or less. And then I would listen to Professor Der-wei Wang's guest lectures on the contemporary Chinese lyrical tradition, recorded in 2015 at Taiwan National University. One of the two-hour classes took me four to five hours to finish; I paused and listened to every scrap of it, slowly writing down line by line. I piously jotted down almost every sentence. After that I would take a shower back home, pumping out shower gel for my lower body, another pump for my upper body. The bottle and its ducklike pump looked obedient. I went to my doctor's appointment every Wednesday, and on the way I would see two rows of carmine azaleas spewing out along the path toward the hospital. One time, as I sat in the long row at the coffee shop, I was approached by a little boy in a superhero suit. His young mother apologized to me, but I thought, I'm the one who should be sorry—he almost contracted my mental illness. As I waited for the subway, my bag was full of books and notebooks as well as my laptop. I held on firmly to the soft and fragrant handle of my bag, as though it were a rail of hard stone, so that I wouldn't jump down onto the track. My friend Meimei had started her fifth year in college. She was struggling to complete her last two credits. Once she told me glumly that she had inquired about graduation several times, but the school kept responding, "You have applied for an early graduation, but you have deferred two semesters, so lacking two registration stamps, you'll have to complete an extra year." I said fuck, and we said this was like...

Investigation of the Relationship Between Texture Coefficient and Electrical Current Consumption of the Cutting Machine with Different Lubricants and Cooling Fluids

Texture coefficient is one of the most effective physical factors in evaluating the engineering characteristics of rocks in various projects, such as drilling, cutting and advanced rate of full-face drilling machines. Evaluation of electricity consumption by disc-cutting machines is critical for monitoring and reducing expenses in the stone processing industry. In this study, the relationship between the textural characteristics of the rocks and the amount of electrical current consumed by the cutting machine in cutting hard stones was evaluated. For this purpose, ten samples of hard rock were investigated. For each rock sample, a microscopic slice was prepared. Then, five digital images were taken using the microscope from each division, and the values of textural characteristics, including area, perimeter, largest diameter, and most minor diameter of all grains in each embodiment, were determined. Then, the texture coefficient of all studied stone samples was computed based on the determined specifications. Finally, the relationship between the texture coefficient and the rate of electrical current consumed by the cutting machine was investigated using statistical models. The results revealed that although the electric current used by the cutting machine decreased when the texture coefficient increased in some samples, no significant relationship between the texture coefficient and the amount of electric current used by the cutting machine was observed for hard stone samples. It was also found that the impact of lubricant type on the cutting machine performance is negligible.