This study presents a high-performance valve-less piezoelectric micropump with crescentshaped structure. This micropump was designed by finite element analysis (FEA) and fabricated through 3D printing technology. Different configurations of the micropump with different distances from inlet to the crescent-shaped structure (δ = 0.3, 0.6, 0.9, 1.2, and 1.5 mm) and numbers of crescent-shaped structures (from one up to four stages) were tested. The sound pressure level (SPL) characteristics were experimentally investigated and evaluated at 0.6, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, and 3.0 mm. The results gave a maximum flow rate of 219.4 ml min −1 at 0.6 mm under 220 V and 45 Hz. Moreover, the flow rate for the quadruple crescent-shaped structure was 286 ml min −1 at 220 V and 82 Hz. Besides, the difference of the SPL was 3.2 dB at 0.6 m, making this pump better than others; the difference was kept at about 18 dB when the gap exceeded 2.0 mm. The results suggest that the structure with the best configuration is that with δ = 0.6 mm and four stages, and the SPL fluctuation is smaller as the output performance becomes better. The study offers some valuable insights into improving its performance and practical application.
A new concept of esthetic reconstruction for partial loss of distal finger segment was introduced. In a series of 77 patients, 80 thumb or finger partial defects of lateral, dorsal, or volar half, or composite tissue defect of the finger body were reconstructed with lateral skin-nail flap, dorsal skin-nail flap, pulp flap, or composite tissue transplant taken from corresponding part of the toes. The blood circulations were reestablished by anastomosing digit arteries of the toe transplants and fingers. Seventy-eight fingers in 75 patients of this series were successfully reconstructed. The overall survival rate was 97.5%. Follow-up examinations made half to 12 years postoperatively showed normal length, outward appearance, and function of the reconstructed digits. Their nails are preserved or reconstructed. The pulps are full. Sweating is present. 2-PD was 4-6 mm. Esthetic reconstruction can achieve the goal of mending any part of tissue loss precisely with good result.
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