Abstract: The present invention relates to a perforation information processing method and device for a bone scaffold model. The method includes: step S1: importing a nonporous-bone-scaffold initial model; step S2: segmenting the nonporous-bone-scaffold initial model into a plurality of unit lattices according to an input signal; and step S3: perforating each of the unit lattices, to obtain a porous bone scaffold model. Compared with the related art, in the present invention, users have great autonomy in design and can completely customize the lattice structure, and the core computation steps can be highly parallelizable, which can greatly reduce the time required for computation.

Abstract: A method of treating a hip joint of a human is provided. The method comprises a step of dissecting an area of the pelvic bone, comprising at least one of the following: dissecting an area between peritoneum and the pelvic bone, dissecting an area between the pelvic bone and the surrounding tissue, dissecting an area of the pelvic region, and dissecting an area of the inguinal region, or, the method comprises at least two of the following steps: dissecting an area of the abdominal cavity, penetrating the hip joint capsule, dissecting an area between peritoneum and the pelvic bone, dissecting an area of the pelvic bone which comprises: dissecting an area between the pelvic bone and the surrounding tissue, or dissecting an area of the pelvic region, or dissecting an area of the inguinal region, and removing or penetrating the tissue surrounding the pelvic bone in the area opposite to acetabulum.

Abstract: A method for performing an arthroplasty of a subtalar joint includes making at least one incision adjacent the subtalar joint, accessing the subtalar joint defined superiorly by a first articular surface and inferiorly by a second articular surface, and preparing at least one of the first articular surface and the second articular surface to form first and second interfacing surfaces. The method further includes identifying at least one landmark of the first interfacing surface and the second interfacing surface, determining at least one significant point on at least one of the first interfacing surface and the second interfacing surface relative to the at least one landmark, and placing at least one trial implant. The method also includes securing an implant positioned substantially inferior relative to the first interfacing surface and substantially superior relative to the second interfacing surface, stabilizing the subtalar joint, and closing the at least one incision.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a joint implant for replacing a finger joint. The joint implant includes a first component, wherein the first component includes a first joint section and a first anchoring section, the first joint section including a concave joint surface about a first axis and the first anchoring section extending transverse to the first axis. The joint implant also includes a second component, wherein the second component includes a second joint section and a second anchoring section, the second joint section including a circumferential surface about a second axis and the second anchoring section extending transverse to the second axis, wherein the circumferential surface includes a convex joint surface that is configured to act as a hinge joint with the concave joint surface of the first joint section.

Abstract: Load sensing spinal implants having at least one sensor and an antenna are disclosed. An example implant may include an interbody cage extending in a longitudinal direction from a proximal end to a distal end and in a widthwise direction from a first lateral end to a second lateral end; and an electronics portion including a housing defining a sealed cavity for supporting an electronics assembly and a battery therein. The implant may include at least one antenna in electrical communication with the electronics assembly; and at least one strain gauge configured to detect a localized force experienced by the interbody cage. The at least one antenna may be configured to transmit information received from the at least one strain gauge to an external device. The electronics assembly may be disposed on the side of the cage, a distal end of the cage, or inside a window of the cage.

Abstract: A spinal jack adapted for installation between first and second vertebral processes, including a three dimensional and arcuate ergonomic main body constructed from first lower and second upper subset body portions, from which is displaceable an upper body between retracted and expanded positions. Each of the jack halves further includes gripping portions adapted for engaging the vertebral processes and preventing detachment following implantation. A worm gear mechanism is provided for expanding or retracting the jack halves in order to establish a corrected adjusted orientation between the processes.

Abstract: An interbody spacer for a spine includes a housing having a plurality of clearance holes configured to engage bone of the spine. A contact plate including a plurality of apertures is positioned a distance away from the housing configured to engage bone of the spine. A plurality of rivets adjoin the housing and the contact plate. A plurality of springs are included with each spring configured to encircle a respective rivet and translate the distance between the housing and contact plate from a minimum distance to a maximum distance.

Abstract: Interbody spacers are expandable horizontally and vertically by an application of axial force, and lockable in an expanded configuration. The spacers include support members interconnected to end bodies by pivotable link members. The spacers are introduced between vertebral bodies in a compressed configuration and expanded to fill the intervertebral space and provide support and selective lordotic correction. Graft material may be introduced into the expanded spacer. Provisional and/or supplementary locking means to lock the spacers in the expanded configuration. Embodiments of the spacers include symmetrically and asymmetrically configured spacers. Methods of expansion include symmetric expansion or asymmetric expansion along each of two directions.

Abstract: Pedicle-based intradiscal fixation devices, systems, instruments, and methods thereof. A pedicle-based intradiscal implant for stabilizing an inferior vertebra and a superior vertebra may include a bendable rod configured to engage bone, a bone fastener defining a channel for receiving the bendable rod, and a locking cap for securing the bone fastener and the bendable rod. The implant may be positioned through a pedicle of an inferior vertebra and the bendable rod may be deployable into the vertebral body of the inferior vertebra, through the disc space, and into the vertebral body of the superior vertebra to stabilize the spine.

Abstract: Medical devices in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention employ one or more coaxial screw gear sleeve mechanisms. In various embodiments, coaxial screw gear sleeve mechanisms include a post with a threaded exterior surface and a corresponding sleeve configured to surround the post, the corresponding sleeve having a threaded interior surface configured to interface with the threaded exterior surface of the post and a geared exterior surface. A drive mechanism can be configured to interface with the geared exterior surface of the sleeve, causing the device to expand.

Abstract: The invention relates to a joint prosthesis implant (1) made mainly of ceramic and having a housing (4) on its joint outer surface (8) and an assembly (100) of such an implant (1) and a gripping device (20).

Abstract: A measurement instrument for use in knee-joint replacement includes a rod and a first jaw. The first jaw has a first inner surface that bears on a front face of a bone resection. A slide is guided on the rod and has a second jaw. The second jaw has a second inner surface oriented counter to the first inner surface. The second inner surface bears on a rear face of the bone resection. A scale between the rod and slide indicates a thickness of the bone resection. A continuation part is connected to the first jaw and has a third inner surface that bears on a proximal tibia. The second jaw has a second outer surface oriented counter to the second inner surface. The second outer surface bears on a distal femur. The scale indicates a longitudinal distance between the distal femur and the proximal tibia.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a joint implant including a first implant coupled to a first bone of a joint, and a second implant coupled to a second bone of the joint and contacting the first implant. The second implant can include a plurality of sensors configured to measure data and a processor operatively coupled to the plurality of sensors and adapted to receive the data from the sensors. The first implant can be a femoral implant coupled to a femur. The second implant can be a patellar implant coupled to a patella. Sensor data from the patellar implant can indicate movement between the femoral implant and the patellar implant and identify patella condition such as a patellar rotation, patellar tilt and patellar tendonitis.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing or for planning the manufacturing of a prosthetic shaft, of an inner shaft of an outer shaft and/or of an extension of the prosthetic shaft, wherein the prosthetic shaft is provided for receiving a limb stump of a patient. In addition, the present invention relates to a prosthetic shaft and a kit. Furthermore, a computing system, a digital storage medium, a computer program product as well as a computer program are proposed.

Abstract: This disclosure provides systems, apparatuses, and devices for a prosthetic digit usable with persons with amputations at or proximal to the metacarpophalangeal joint. The device restores prehension in a person with missing fingers or thumb by providing opposition to forces in the extension direction via a spring-loaded pawl and locking rack ratchet mechanism, thereby allowing an individual to manipulate or stabilize objects. The digit may be spring-loaded in the extension direction by a torsion spring or other biasing member. The pawl may be automatically disengaged from the rack when the digit reaches full flexion, and the full flexion disengage stop may be adjustable. The pawl may be automatically engaged with the rack when the digit reaches full extension, and the extension stop may be adjustable. The pawl may contain a lateral feature that creates interference with the anchoring linkage under load and limits deflection of the structure.

Abstract: The invention relates to a prosthetic socket system having: a dimensionally-stable outer socket (10) having a proximal insertion opening (11) and a distal end region (12), on which outer socket a fastening element (13) for a distal prosthetic component is arranged; and a prosthetic liner (20) that can be secured in the outer socket (10) and has a distal sealing cap (21), a supporting element (30) being arranged in the outer socket (10) proximally to the distal end region (12) of the outer socket (10) and having a recess (40) for an osseointegrated coupling element (50).

Abstract: A method for making a prosthetic liner includes the steps of providing a textile sleeve, applying an uncured silicone material onto an inner surface of the textile sleeve and impregnating interstices of a high-density knit structure of the textile sleeve. The silicone material is a fast-cure silicone material arranged to reach at least 90% cross-linking faster than conventional silicone material. The silicone material is preferably limited to the inner surface of the textile sleeve, whereas the outer surface is devoid of the silicone material. The silicone defines an inner layer forming the interior surface of the liner, and the outer surface of the textile sleeve forms the exterior surface of the liner. A thickness of the liner from the interior surface of the liner to the inner surface of textile layer consists of the silicone of the inner layer.

Abstract: A covered stent (100A), including a mesh-shaped support structure, and further including a first section (10A) and a second section (20A) connected to a proximal end and/or a distal end of the first section. The first section includes a plurality of first corrugated rings (11A), and a first covering film (12A) which covers surfaces of the first corrugated rings; the second section includes a plurality of second corrugated rings (21A), two adjacent second corrugated rings being fixedly connected to each other; a plurality of windows (201A) are formed between the plurality of second corrugated rings; and the plurality of first corrugated rings and the plurality of second corrugated rings form the support structure.

Abstract: Devices and methods of treating conditions cause or exacerbated by excessive fluid pressures or retentions, such as pulmonary hypertension, that involves shunting excessive fluid pressure from one bodily chamber or vessel to another bodily chamber or vessel.

Abstract: A delivery device (1) for an endoprosthesis (2). The endoprosthesis (2) is preferably an endoprosthesis for treating an aneurysm. The delivery device (1) comprises an outer sheath (3) and an inner tube (4). The inner tube (4) is arranged within the outer sheath (3) and at least one restraining tube (5, 30). The restraining tube (5, 30) is for holding the endoprosthesis (2) in a compressed configuration. The restraining tube (5, 30) is arranged between the outer sheath (3) and the inner tube (4). The outer sheath (3), the inner tube (4) and at least one restraining tube (5, 30) are coaxial. The restraining tube (5, 30) includes at least one axial elongation (6) extending from a distal end portion of the restraining tube. The at least one axial elongation (6) is adapted to be laced through portions of the endoprosthesis (2).

Abstract: Devices and methods of endolumenal formation of gastric sleeves are described. Some embodiments allow templating of a gastric sleeve by a gastric bougie, exposing a selected amount of tissue for suturing access, while maintaining sufficient internal working space for suturing within the template lumen.

Abstract: The invention relates to an orthopedic device with a dimensionally stable element (2) for positioning on a body part and a strap (30) for fastening the dimensionally stable element (2) to the body part, the strap (30) being guided through a deflection eyelet (8), wherein the dimensionally stable element (2) comprises at least one fastening device (4) with a feed-through (10) with a longitudinal direction, along which a connection element (6) extends through the feed-through (10) to which the deflection eyelet (8) is attached, the connection element (6) comprising a first end (20) on which a first anchor (22) is formed in such a way that the first end (20) with the first anchor (22) cannot be pulled through the feed-through (10) along the longitudinal direction.

Abstract: Wearable treatment devices and methods for treatment of plantar fasciitis. Certain devices have a heel collar attachable to a heel of a foot and a toe brace having an elongate band attachable to the heel collar and at least one toe loop disposed at a distal end of the elongate band. Some embodiments also include a support strap attachable to the elongate band, the support strap having two strap arms positionable around the heel and attachable to each other.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing stretch resistant plantar fascia support system is provided. The stretch resistant plantar fascia support system is adhesively applied to the foot of a patient for providing relief from plantar fasciitis. A portion of the stretch resistant plantar fascia support system is adhesively attached to the bottom surface of the foot for reducing stress on the plantar fascia.

Abstract: A joint rehabilitating garment assembly includes a shirt that is wearable on a user's torso such that the shirt covers each of the user's shoulders. The shirt has a plurality of channels integrated into the shirt and each of the channels is strategically positioned on the shirt such that each of the channels extends along pre-determined pressure points associated with supporting a rotator cuff injury in the user. A plurality of elastomeric bands is each of the elastomeric bands is routed through respective ones of the channels in the shirt thereby facilitating each of the elastomeric bands to extend along the pre-determined pressure points associated with rotator cuff injuries. Each of the elastomeric bands imparts tension into the pre-determined pressure points to support the user's rotator cuffs while the user's rotator cuffs are healing from injury.

Abstract: A customizable knee brace for use in the treatment of osteoarthritis is provided. The customizable knee brace includes a lateral upright. The lateral upright includes at least a first semi-rigid support, a second semi-rigid support, and a hinge physically coupling the first semi-rigid support and the second semi-rigid support. The customizable knee brace further includes a thigh cuff constructed of formable material and coupled to the first semi-rigid support. The customizable knee brace further includes a shin cuff constructed of formable material and coupled to the second semi-rigid support. The customizable knee brace further includes an elastomeric web framework coupled to the lateral upright and configured to secure an area of a knee of a patient when wearing the customizable knee brace. The customizable knee brace further includes at least one tensioning element configured to adjust a tension of the elastomeric web framework.

Abstract: A powered orthotic device includes a brace, a finger engagement member, a thumb engagement member, and a hand actuator. The powered orthotic device includes an affixment member affixed to the brace, and a finger carrier assembly with a finger carrier to engage the fingers of the wearer, as well as a locking mechanism configured to be removably attached to the affixment member. The wearer dons the orthotic device, without assistance from another, by placing the set of fingers into the finger carrier and using a free hand of the wearer to affix the locking mechanism to the affixment member.

Abstract: The present invention provides a support band that comprises a size adjustable flexible abdominal belt including a back panel, a right side contouring panel, a left side contouring panel, a right front end panel, and a left front end panel, an internal pocket, an external pocket, one or more internal sleeve pockets, a plurality of compression straps, and a plurality of anterior rigid panels, and a plurality of posterior rigid panels.

Abstract: To provide an assist device capable of suitably providing an assist force to a worker even when an upper extremity is positioned relatively low, an assist device capable of generating an assist force for a worker includes a supporting portion capable of supporting an armpit of the worker, wherein the supporting portion is arranged to be independent of a motion of an upper extremity of the worker, and wherein the supporting portion is a reaction force receiving portion against a load force of a grasped object by the worker.

Abstract: A nasal dilator device comprises a substantially U-shaped body including a central portion arranged to span a septum of a nose when worn by a user and first and second leg members extending from the central portion in a first plane. The device further comprises a first cantilever rib member extending outward from the U-shaped body in a second plane and a second cantilever rib member extending outward from the U-shaped body in a third plane, wherein the first and second cantilever rib members extend away from each other. The device further comprises a first intermediate section connecting an end of the first leg member to a proximal end of the first cantilever rib member, wherein the first intermediate section extends between the first plane and second plane and a second intermediate section connecting an end of the second leg member to a proximal end of the second cantilever rib member, wherein the second intermediate section extends between the first plane and the third plane.

Abstract: A nasal dilator device comprises a substantially U-shaped body including a central portion arranged to span a septum of a nose when worn by a user and first and second leg members extending from the central portion in a first plane, a first cantilever rib member extending outward from the U-shaped body in a second plane and a second 5 cantilever rib member extending outward from the U-shaped body in a third plane, wherein the first and second cantilever rib members extend away from each other.

Abstract: A drainable pouch including an outlet closure and securement system is provided. The outlet closure and securement system include at least one tab and a cover including at least one slot. The drainable pouch is closed by folding up an outlet portion, wherein the folded up outlet portion is secured to and hidden behind the cover when the at least one tab is received in the at least one slot.

Abstract: A stoma cover includes a hood and an adjustment band. The hood extends between a proximal end and a closed distal end. The adjustment band is connected to the proximal end. The adjustment band allows the hood to adjust between a first open size at the proximal end that is sized for placement over the stoma and a second size that is smaller than the first open size. The second size is adapted to secure the hood relative to a root portion of the stoma. A moisture absorbing material is disposed inside of the hood, where the moisture absorbing material is provided to absorb stomal output exuding from a meatus of the stoma.

Abstract: The present invention provides an ostomy draining conduit comprising a proximal self-expanding internal sealing edge designed to be inserted into a stoma and seal the passage between the conduit's exterior wall and the stoma's interior wall; and a distal external draining edge, as well ostomy draining devices comprising same.

Abstract: Systems, apparatuses, and methods for aiding a user in ceasing or at least ameliorating sleep or awake bruxism, or apnea, or snoring. The unit is fully enclosed against fluid incursion and placeable between a user's teeth and adjacent cheek, such as while the user is sleeping or awake. A flange extends from a lateral side of the unit, so as to fit between the user's upper and lower teeth and locate the unit in place. The unit includes a circuit that, when completed, such as by the user clenching his/her teeth, causes a mild vibration mechanism to activate and cause a sensation which signals the user to stop clenching his/her teeth. The vibration is preferably such that, if the user is sleeping, the user is not fully awakened but mildly startled to break whatever condition has set off the unit.

Abstract: Systems for treating a subject's tissue can include a thermally conductive cup, a tissue-receiving cavity, and a vacuum port. The vacuum port is in fluid communication with the tissue-receiving cavity to provide a vacuum for drawing the submental tissue, or other targeted tissue, into the tissue-receiving cavity. A thermal device can cool and/or heat the conductive cup such that the conductive cup non-invasively controls the temperature of subcutaneous lipid-rich cells in the tissue. A restraint apparatus can hold a the conductive cup in thermal contact with the target region.

Abstract: A system for cooling the brain of a human subject, includes a cooling subsystem which inputs a flow of air or breathable gas, cool the air or breathable gas, and output cooled air or breathable gas which is delivered to a human subject. A flow control device controls a flow rate of the flow of the air or breathable gas input to the cooling subsystem and a flow rate of the cooled air or breathable gas delivered to the human subject. One or more flow rate sensors measure at least a flow rate of flow of cooled air or breathable gas. One or more temperature sensors measure at least a temperature of a brain and the temperature of the flow of cooled air or breathable gas. A controller adjusts a cooling rate, the temperature, and the flow rate of flow of cooled air or breathable gas delivered to the human subject to cool the brain of the human subject.

Abstract: A hands-free intraoral device for imparting a chilling treatment to a zone of intraoral tenderness within an oral cavity of a user. The hands-free intraoral device includes a carrier having a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end of the carrier is configured to be received within the oral cavity of the user and the proximal end of the carrier is configured to extend to a front and/or externally of the oral cavity of the user. A cooling element formed of a thermally conductive material selected to impart the chilling treatment to the zone of intraoral tenderness. A positioning element is operable to urge at least a portion of the cooling element in abutment with the zone of intraoral tenderness, providing for a hands-free positioning of the cooling element in abutment with the zone of intraoral tenderness.

Abstract: A computer-based automated phacoemulsification method is disclosed. The method includes determining a vacuum measurement based on a reading from a sensor coupled with an aspiration line; comparing the vacuum measurement to the at least one vacuum threshold; and providing an ultrasound power based on the comparison of the vacuum measurement to the at least one vacuum threshold.

Abstract: An ophthalmic laser system and related method for forming a lenticular incision in a corneal lenticule extraction procedure. The lenticular incision is formed by multiple sweeps of a laser scan line along meridians of longitude of the lenticular incision, where the end point of each sweep is connected to the start point of the next sweep by a smooth turning trajectory. The trajectory includes a first circular arc tangentially connected to the first sweep at its end point, a second circular arc tangentially connected to the next sweep at its start point, and a straight line segment tangentially connected to both circular arcs. The smooth trajectory is determined with the given limits of velocity, acceleration and jerk of the XY scanning motors, without using high frequency filters to smooth the trajectory, thereby avoiding unknown changes to the original trajectory and achieving high precision lenticule shapes.

Abstract: [Object] To provide a control apparatus, a control method, a program, and a control system by which precise control can be made efficiently. [Solving Means] In order to accomplish the above-mentioned objective, a control apparatus according to an embodiment of the present technology includes an acquisition unit and a control unit. The acquisition unit acquires situation information relating to surgery, the situation information being based on a captured image relating to a patient eyeball, the captured image being captured by a surgical microscope. The control unit controls a control parameter relating to a treatment apparatus on the basis of the situation information, the treatment apparatus being used for the surgery. Accordingly, precise control can be made efficiently. Moreover, the precision of predicting a dangerous situation is enhanced by recognizing a situation of the surgery in image recognition.

Abstract: In certain embodiments, an ophthalmic surgical laser system for imaging and treating an eye floater includes an SLO subsystem, a treatment laser subsystem, a scanner, optical elements, and a computer. The SLO subsystem provides an SLO laser beam with an SLO focal point, and the treatment laser subsystem provides a treatment laser beam with a treatment focal point that spatially coincides with the SLO focal point. The scanner scans the SLO laser beam across a scan region and directs the treatment laser beam to the xy-location of the scan region. The optical elements aim the SLO laser beam and the treatment laser beam at substantially the same point of the scan region. The computer receives an SLO image of the floater, determines an xy-location of the floater, and instructs the treatment laser subsystem to direct the treatment laser beam towards the xy-location and the z-scan location of the floater.

Abstract: A laser eye protection device is described that includes an optically opaque screen that covers both eyes; one or more internal viewing screens on an eye-facing side of the optically opaque screen; and one or more cameras arranged around the optically opaque screen, wherein the one or more cameras are in electrical and data communication with the one or more internal viewing screens and provide a visual representation of surroundings to a user.

Abstract: A method for treating tinnitus includes the steps of: determining a tinnitus frequency of a patient; selecting a plurality of therapeutic tones which is a descending Shepard scale that includes the tinnitus frequency of the patient and other frequencies ranging from an octave higher than the tinnitus frequency to an octave lower than the tinnitus frequency; and subjecting the patient to several cycles of a stimulation pulse training in which the patient listens to the therapeutic tones played repetitively with a pause between every two cycles, each of the therapeutic tones being played for a time period of 500 milliseconds, one of the therapeutic tones matching the tinnitus frequency of the patient occurring randomly once after stimulus at the beginning of the pause in every four cycles, so as to reduce the patient's perception to tinnitus.

Abstract: An ear-worn device includes: a microphone that obtains a sound and outputs a first sound signal of the sound obtained; a DSP that outputs a second sound signal based on the first sound signal, when determining that the sound satisfies a predetermined requirement relating to a noise component contained in the sound and the sound contains human voice; a loudspeaker that outputs a reproduced sound based on the second sound signal output; and a housing that contains the microphone, the DSP, and the loudspeaker.

Abstract: An adjustable hearing protection device is provided for arranging in or on the ear. The hearing protection device includes a housing with an acoustic entrance opening, an insertion part for inserting into an auditory canal of the ear extending from the housing with an acoustic exit opening oriented toward the interior of the auditory canal, and adjusting means for adjusting the hearing protection device to one of at least two acoustic adjustment positions. Each acoustic adjustment position sets one of a number of acoustic couplings between the entrance opening and the exit opening.

Abstract: Disclosed embodiments relate to apparatuses and methods for wound treatment. In some embodiments, a negative pressure source is incorporated into a wound dressing apparatus so that the wound dressing and the negative pressure source are part of an integral or integrated wound dressing structure that applies the wound dressing and the negative pressure source simultaneously to a patient's wound. The negative pressure source and/or electronic components may be positioned between a wound contact layer and a cover layer of the wound dressing. The negative pressure source and/or electronic components may be separated and/or partitioned from an absorbent area of the dressing. A switch may be integrated with the wound dressing to control operation of the wound dressing apparatus. A connector may be direct air from an outlet of the negative pressure source to the environment. A non-return valve may inhibit back flow of air into the wound dressing.

Abstract: Arrangement for compression sensing between two objects, preferably for compression treatment, in particular compression therapy arrangement, comprising a first object, e. f. a compression garment adapted to exert external pressure on a second object, e. g.

Abstract: Provided is a nipple cover pressing and covering a nipple and the surrounding skin to prevent nipple protrusion. The nipple cover is thin, light, and soft and reduces a foreign body sensation when attached to the skin. The nipple cover includes a cover sheet and an adhesive layer. The cover sheet is made of a mesh-type fabric to enhance the pressing force and to increase the coverage of the nipple cover. The adhesive layer is made of a silicone gel that minimizes skin irritation and which enables the reuse of the nipple cover by cleansing.

Abstract: Absorbent structures and methods of manufacture are disclosed. In one embodiment, an absorbent structure may comprise first and second substrate material layers and a mixture of superabsorbent particles and adhesive disposed between the first and second substrate material layers. The superabsorbent particles may be disposed in an amount greater than 400 gsm, and the adhesive may be disposed in an amount less than 5%, by weight, of the weight of the superabsorbent particles, and the adhesive forms a three-dimensional mesh network comprising network adhesive filaments with the superabsorbent particles immobilized within the mesh network, and the network adhesive filaments extending substantially throughout a three-dimensional space defined by the network adhesive filaments and the superabsorbent particles.