Abstract: The invention generally relates to improved medical blood pump devices, systems, and methods. For example, blood pumps may be provided that include a housing defining a blood flow path between an inlet and an outlet. A rotor may be positioned in the blood flow path. A motor stator may be driven to rotate the rotor to provide the blood flow through the pump. Axial and/or tilt stabilization components may be provided to increase an axial and/or tilt stabilization of the rotor within the blood flow path. In some embodiments, biasing forces are provided that urge the rotor toward a bearing component. The biasing force may be provided by adjusting drive signals of the motor stator. Additionally, or alternatively, one or more magnets (e.g., permanent/stator magnets) may be provided to bias the rotor in the upstream and/or downstream direction (e.g., toward a bearing (chamfer, step, conical), or the like).

Abstract: A blood pump system and methods for the use and operation of such a blood system is described, wherein the blood pump system includes an implantable pump and an implantable flow measurement device. A processing device receives indications of a number of pump parameters such as pump voltage, pump current and pump speed. Flow rate is determined based on the pump parameters, and this determined flow rate is compared to the actual flow rate as measured by the flow measurement device. In certain embodiments, the flow measurement device may be periodically energized to make the comparison, then powered off to reduce power consumption. The time period in which the flow measurement device is powered off is based on the difference between the determined and the actual flow rates.

Abstract: A device for a soft tissue treatment of a patient. The device includes an applicator including at least one electrode, a fastening mechanism to fix the applicator to a body part of a patient, and a control unit including a microprocessor to control the at least one electrode. The at least one electrode may provide a radiofrequency energy and an electric current. The radiofrequency energy may cause a heating of a soft tissue. The electric current may cause a muscle contraction. The body part includes a face or a chin.

Abstract: An apparatus for creating resonant standing waves in biological tissue, in particular in the treatment of medical conditions, comprising at least one applicator for application to biological tissue and a drive unit for driving the at least one applicator simultaneously with AM modulated and FM modulated carrier signals in order to create resonant standing waves in the tissue.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes systems, methods, devices for performing thought-controlled neuromuscular stimulation. Also described are methods for producing a neuromuscular stimulation cuff. The systems and methods generally relate to receiving and processing thought signals indicative of an intended action, and then delivering stimulation to effectuate the intended action through a neuromuscular stimulation cuff. The neuromuscular stimulation cuff includes a flexible printed circuit board having at least one finger and a plurality of electrogel discs disposed on the at least one finger. The neuromuscular stimulation cuff may be produced by providing a layer of polyimide, etching a conductive copper circuit including a plurality of electrodes into the layer of polyimide to form an etched circuit layer, adhering a cover layer onto the etched circuit layer to form a flexible printed circuit board (PCB), and cutting at least one finger from the flexible PCB.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a microcurrent patch having a small battery and a circuit unit that are arranged on a substrate and are covered with a glue layer so as to be formed as one body on the substrate, and thus the present invention is easy to use, improves productivity, and has excellent flexibility, thereby facilitating attachment to a human body having many curves, and adjusting the amount of current flowing through the patch according to the linear width of the circuit unit or the number of holes in the glue layer.

Abstract: A lead assembly and a method of making a lead are provided. The method of making a multi-contact lead assembly comprises placing monofilament placed in the void spaces not occupied by the plurality of conductor wires and, in one embodiment, thermally fusing the monofilament to the like material spacer by applying heat just below the melting temperature of the monofilament and spacer material. Alternatively, the monofilament and spacer may be of different materials and heat is applied to cause at least one material to thermally reflow or melt. The conductive contacts may be located at either the distal end and/or proximal end of the lead. Oversized spacers may be used in order to provide extra material to fill voids during the thermal fusion/reflow process.

Abstract: The present application relates to a new stimulation design which can be utilized to treat neurological conditions. The stimulation system produces a burst mode stimulation which alters the neuronal activity of the predetermined site, thereby treating the neurological condition or disorder. The burst stimulus comprises a plurality of groups of spike pulses having a maximum inter-spike interval of 100 milliseconds. The burst stimulus is separated by a substantially quiescent period of time between the plurality of groups of spike pulses. This inter-group interval may comprise a minimum of 5 seconds.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are a minimally invasive electrode and delivery device, along with various related components, devices, methods, and technologies. The delivery device comprises a proximal elongate shaft, a paddle coupled to a distal end of the proximal shaft, and an irrigation/suction sleeve disposable over the paddle. Disclosed also is a fan-like cortical electrode device comprising at least two electrode segments, wherein each of the at least two electrode segments comprises a thin film pad, a plurality of electrode contacts disposed on the thin film pad, and a proximal connector attached to a proximal end of the thin film pad.

Abstract: A implantable neural electrode assembly is described. The implantable neural electrode assembly includes a plurality of open-ended rings alternatingly connected to a spine. An inner layer of the open-ended rings is formed from a drug-loaded material (e.g., silicone that has been loaded with a steroid) and an outer layer is formed from a drug-free material. One or more electrode assemblies are connected to the inner layer and oriented towards a center of a cylinder defined by the plurality of open-ended rings.

Abstract: Apparatus and associated methods relate to a lead that includes metallic traces sandwiched between layers of polymers to form a ribbon (e.g., similar to a flex circuit). In an illustrative example, areas on both ends of the traces may be exposed, forming stimulation electrodes on one end and electrical contacts on the other. The ribbon may be formed such that it fits down a small diameter needle. When the needle is removed, the formed ribbon may relax and engage the tissue providing a means of retention. The lead may advantageously: (1) be minimally invasive to implant, (2) be inexpensive, (3) stay in place a temporary/trial medical procedure setting, and (4) be easy to remove.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for imposing electric fields through a target region in a body of a patient are described. The apparatus includes a sensor array having a plurality of temperature sensors with a plurality of first temperature sensors of the sensor array connected to a first conductor, and a plurality of second temperature sensors connected to a second conductor. A circuit is configured to provide a known amount of electricity via the first conductor and the second conductor to a third temperature sensor, the third temperature sensor within the plurality of first temperature sensors, and within the plurality of second temperature sensors.

Abstract: An electroporation device with a needle array removably attached thereto, the needle array having a body, a shroud movable with respect to the body between a rest position and one or more actuated positions, and an auto-lock assembly. Where the auto-lock assembly is adjustable between a locked configuration, where the shroud is not movable with respect to the body, and an unlocked configuration, where the shroud is movable with respect to the body, and where biasing the shroud from the rest position to the one or more actuated positions and back to the rest position adjusts the auto-lock from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration.

Abstract: An electrostimulation treatment device is provided for performing handheld microcurrent muscle toning treatments in absence of the assistance of another person. The electrostimulation treatment device includes a handle section disposed between a treatment end and an accessories end. The treatment end includes one or more electrodes that are configured to supply an electric microcurrent to the skin and muscles of the user. The electrodes may be being pressed against the skin to manipulate the skin and muscles such that the muscles are forced into a desired form for re-education. The accessories end is adapted to receive one or more accessory connectors and a USB connector. The USB connector is configured to be coupled with an external computing device for operating the electrostimulation treatment device. The accessory connectors facilitate coupling the electrostimulation treatment device with external accessory devices, such as a lip mask, an eye mask, or a conductive glove.

Abstract: Embodiments herein relate to medical devices and methods for using the same to treat cancerous tumors within a bodily tissue. A medical device system herein can include an electric field generating circuit configured to generate one or more electric fields, and control circuitry. The system can include one or more electrodes disposed on a first stimulation lead to deliver the electric fields to a site of a cancerous tumor within a patient and one or more electrodes disposed on a second stimulation lead to deliver the electric fields to the site of a cancerous tumor within a patient. The first and second stimulation leads can be configured to be implanted on or about a duodenum. The electric field generating circuit can generate electric fields at frequencies selected from a range of between 10 kHz to 1 MHz. Other embodiments are also included herein.

Abstract: A functional electrical stimulation (FES) device includes electrodes arranged to apply functional electrical stimulation to a body part of the user. FES stimulation is performed by: receiving values of a set of user metrics for the user; receiving a target position of the body part represented as values for a set of body part position measurements; determining a user-specific energization pattern for producing the target position based on the received target position and the received values of the set of user metrics for the user; and energizing the electrodes of the FES device in accordance with the determined user-specific energization pattern. The determination may utilize an FES calibration database with records having fields containing: values of the set of user metrics for reference users; energization patterns; and values of the set of body part position metrics for positions assumed by the body part in response to applying the energization patterns.

Abstract: A method for treating a male impotent patient, the method comprising the steps of cutting the skin of the patient, inserting a dissecting tool and dissecting an area of at least one portion of a tissue wall of a penile portion, and placing a medical device. The medical device comprises a constriction device configured to gently constrict the penile portion to restrict the blood flow leaving the penis, and a stimulation device configured to stimulate the penile portion constricted by the constriction device to at least further restrict the blood flow leaving the penis to achieve erection.

Abstract: Methods of treating subjects may include assisting breathing of the subject via an external respiratory support device. The methods of treating subjects may further include delivering an electrical signal to a first nerve of the subject, wherein delivering of the first signal blocks a pain signal from a pulmonary stretch pain receptor. The methods may further include placing one or more electrodes proximate a first nerve, wherein the first electrodes are supported on an intravenous catheter.

Abstract: A means for treating breathing disorders by stimulating respiratory muscles or nerves to entrain respiratory systems while leaving respiratory drive intact. Embodiments of the invention employ frequency analysis to determine if appropriate stimulation energy is being applied.

Abstract: Neurostimulation assemblies, systems, and methods make possible the providing of short-term therapy or diagnostic testing by providing electrical connections between muscles and/or nerves inside the body and stimulus generators and/or recording instruments mounted on the surface of the skin or carried outside the body. The assembly affords maximum patient mobility and comfort through differentiated components having minimal profiles and connected by way of detachable and adjustable connections.

Abstract: Apparatus for assessing the accuracy of a target stimulation intensity level used in transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation to a user, the apparatus comprising: a calculation unit for calculating a set of expected values of the target stimulation intensity level for a desired sensation based on a profile of the user; a stimulation unit for electrically stimulating at least one nerve of the user at one or more stimulation levels; a discovery unit for enabling the user to indicate a target stimulation intensity level at which the electrical stimulation to the user evokes the desired sensation from the user; and an assessment unit to determine the accuracy of the indicated target stimulation intensity level based on the expected set of values of the target stimulation intensity level for the desired sensation.

Abstract: Presented herein are magnet arrangements for use with encapsulated implantable components. An implantable component comprises an implant body and a plurality of wire loops forming an internal coil that are encapsulated in a biocompatible overmolding. The implantable component also comprises a bone fixture positioned proximate to the plurality of wire loops and an implantable magnet attached to the bone fixture.

Abstract: Selective high-frequency spinal cord modulation for inhibiting pain with reduced side effects and associated systems and methods are disclosed. In particular embodiments, high-frequency modulation in the range of from about 1.5 KHz to about 50 KHz may be applied to the patient's spinal cord region from an epidural, cervical location to address at least one of high back pain, mid-back pain, low back pain, and leg pain without creating paresthesia in the patient.

Abstract: Systems and methods for managing pain in patient are described. A system may include sensors configured to sense physiological or functional signals, and a pain analyzer to generate signal metrics from the physiological or functional signals. The pain analyzer also generates weight factors corresponding to the signal metrics. The weight factors may indicate the signal metrics reliability in representing an intensity of the pain. The pain analyzer generates a pain score using a plurality of signal metrics and a plurality of weight factors. The pain score may be output to a user or a process. The system may additionally include an electrostimulator to generate and deliver closed-loop pain therapy according to the pain score.

Abstract: One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a system for treating a medical condition in a patient. The system can include a neurostimulator that is in electrical communication with a remote transducer. The neurostimulator can be sized and dimensioned for injection or insertion into a pterygopalatine fossa (PPF) of a patient. The remote transducer, when activated and brought into close proximity to the patient's head, can cause the neurostimulator to deliver an electrical signal to a target neural structure located within the PPF to treat the medical condition.

Abstract: Disclosed are various examples and embodiments of systems, devices, components and methods configured to treat mood disorders in a patient using a compact implantable neurostimulator and corresponding lead(s) that are shaped, sized and configured to be implanted beneath a patient's skin in the head or neck, and to stimulate one or more target cranial nerves. The one or more medical electrical leads comprising electrode(s) are positioned adjacent to, in contact with, or in operative positional relationship to, the one or more target cranial nerves of the patient. In some embodiments, electrical stimulation is provided to the one or more target cranial nerve(s) of the patient for periods of time ranging between 30 and 60 minutes, once or twice per day. In some embodiments, power is provided to the implantable neurostimulator transcutaneously by inductive, wireless, RF, acoustic, microwave, or other suitable non-invasive means.

Abstract: A neuromodulation lead that is biased towards a substantially omega shape when fully deployed is provided. The neuromodulation lead includes a left set of electrodes disposed on a left portion of the lead body of the neuromodulation lead and a right set of electrodes disposed on a right portion of the lead body of the neuromodulation lead. The neuromodulation lead can be positioned in the plane between the genioglossus muscle and the geniohyoid muscle.

Abstract: Implantable electrodes with power delivery wearable for treating sleep apnea, and associated systems and methods are disclosed herein. A representative system includes non-implantable signal generator worn by the patient and having an antenna that directs a mid-field RF power signal to an implanted electrode. The implanted electrode in turn directs a lower frequency signal to a neural target, for example, the patient's hypoglossal nerve. Representative signal generators can have the form of a mouthpiece, a collar or other wearable, and/or a skin-mounted patch.

Abstract: An indication that a patient event occurred may be used to evaluate the efficacy of at least one therapy program and/or adjust therapy delivery to the patient. In some examples, the patient event indication includes patient input that may be received via an event indication button of a programming device. In some examples, therapy delivery may be adjusted by adjusting at least one therapy parameter value, switching therapy programs or therapy program groups or restarting a therapy cycle of a medical device.

Abstract: Systems and methods for producing asynchronous neural responses to treat pain and/or other patient conditions are disclosed. A method in accordance with a particular embodiment includes selecting a target stimulation frequency that is above a threshold frequency, with the threshold frequency corresponding to a refractory period for neurons of a target sensory neural population. The method can further include producing a patient sensation of paresthesia by directing an electrical signal to multiple sensory neurons of the target sensory neural population at the stimulation frequency, with individual neurons of the sensory neural population completing corresponding individual refractory periods at different times, resulting in an asynchronous sensory neuron response to the electrical signal.

Abstract: Systems, apparatus, and methods for treating medication refractory epilepsy are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method of treating epilepsy is disclosed comprising detecting, using a first electrode array coupled to a first endovascular carrier, an electrophysiological signal of a subject. The method further comprises analyzing the electrophysiological signal using a neuromodulation unit electrically coupled to the first electrode array and stimulating an intracorporeal target of the subject using a second electrode array coupled to a second endovascular carrier implanted within a part of a bodily vessel superior to a base of the skull of the subject.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and devices that are used for improving cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) are described herein. Such a method can include, for each set of pacing parameters, of a plurality of sets of pacing parameters, performing CRT using a set of pacing parameters and simultaneously therewith sensing a plurality of intracardiac electrograms (IEGMs) using different combinations of implanted electrodes. Additionally, for each set of pacing parameters, of the plurality of sets of pacing parameters, the method includes producing a respective reconstructed multi-lead surface electrocardiogram (ECG) based on the plurality of IEGMs that were sensed while CRT was performed using the set of pacing parameters. The method also includes analyzing the reconstructed multi-lead surface ECGs that were produced for the plurality of sets of pacing parameters, and based on results thereof, identifying a set of pacing parameters to be use for further CRT.

Abstract: In some examples, an implantable medical device includes a battery, an electronics module electrically connected to the battery, and an elongated housing comprising a side wall positioned between the battery and an end cap, wherein the electronics module is positioned within the elongated housing between the battery and the end cap. The implantable medical device also includes an electrical contact assembly comprising a first spring contact and a second spring contact. The electrical contact assembly of the implantable medical device is positioned within the elongated housing between the electronics module and the battery or the end cap.

Abstract: A cochlear implant system is disclosed. The system includes a power management unit that is configured to determine a stimulation power consumption of the implantable unit for providing the plurality of stimulation pulses of the stimulation frame to the auditory nerve fibers of the recipient. The determine of the stimulation power consumption of the implantable unit may be based on the plurality of stimulation pulses determined by the external unit, and more specifically, determined by a sound processor arranged within the external unit and/or the implantable unit. The plurality of stimulation pulses may be communicated to the power management unit. Furthermore, the power management unit may be configured to determine a power consumption stage of the implantable unit.

Abstract: Various embodiments of a transcutaneous energy transfer system are disclosed. The system includes an internal component adapted to be disposed within a body of a patient and an external component adapted to be disposed outside the body of the patient. The external component includes an external controller that is adapted to determine whether an internal coil of the internal component is electromagnetically disconnected from an external coil of the external component. If electromagnetically disconnected, then the external controller is adapted to determine a reconnection time threshold based upon at least one of a power transfer efficiency value between the internal coil and the external coil, a charge state of an internal power source, or a power consumption value of an implantable device, and output a charging alarm if a time interval when the internal coil is electromagnetically disconnected from the external coil exceeds the reconnection time threshold.

Abstract: The disclosure describes various aspects of an automated external defibrillator (AED) system, including shock generating electronics, a battery configured for providing power to the shock generating electronics, power management circuitry configured for managing the shock generating electronics and the battery, at least one environmental sensor configured for monitoring environmental conditions in which the AED system is placed, and a controller configured for controlling the power management circuitry and the at least one environmental sensor. The at least one environmental sensor includes a temperature sensor configured for providing a temperature measurement, and the controller is further configured for adjusting operations of the power management circuitry in accordance with the temperature measurement provided by the temperature sensor. The disclosure further describes associated methods of using the AED system.

Abstract: An implantable medical device has a therapy module configured to generate a composite pacing pulse including a series of at least two individual pulses. The therapy module is configured to generate the composite pacing pulse by generating a first pulse of the at least two individual pulses by selectively coupling a first portion of a plurality of capacitors to an output signal line and generate a second pulse of the at least two individual pulses by selectively coupling a second portion of the plurality of capacitors to the output signal line.

Abstract: A wearable medical device includes a waterproof harness, a plurality of ECG sensing electrodes configured to detect a patient's ECG, and a plurality of therapy electrodes configured to provide at least one biphasic shock to the patient. The device includes a control unit in electronic communication with the ECG sensing electrodes and therapy electrodes and configured to monitor the sensed ECG and, in response to detecting a cardiac arrhythmia, provide the biphasic shock(s). The control unit is comprised within a waterproof case. The device includes a water-resistant or waterproof connection pod that is configured to electrically couple the ECG sensing electrodes, therapy electrodes, and control unit. The connection pod provides the sensed ECG signal to the control unit and the biphasic shock current to the therapy electrodes. The device includes a user interface device in electronic communication with the control unit that includes at least one patient responsiveness button.

Abstract: The disclosure provides systems for ultrasound-induced thrombolysis with magnetic microbubbles under a rotational/alternating magnetic field, sonothrombolysis systems with magnetic microbubbles and optional nanodroplets for inducing thrombolysis under an acoustic field, and a rotational/alternating magnetic field, and methods of treating patients with blood clots using the sonothrombolysis systems of the present disclosure.

Abstract: A system and method for treating a tissue is provided. The treatment causes a tightening or lifting of tissue. The method includes delivering a photochemical agent through a depth of the tissue to distribute the photochemical agent adjacent proteins within the tissue and irradiating the tissue with an electromagnetic irradiation at a wavelength that activates the photochemical agent, causing a protein response that brings fibers of the tissue closer together in order to one of reduce tissue laxity and tighten the tissue. A kit is provided to facilitate the method.

Abstract: A body part positioning table or table overlay includes a planar surface to support a body part. The table or table overlay further includes a first mask mounting system having a first configuration for mounting a first mask that positions and secures the body part relative to the planar surface, and a second mask mounting system having a second configuration for mounting a second mask to position and secure the body part relative to the planar surface.

Abstract: Brachytherapy templates and template holders can be adjustable relative to a patient's anatomy. One template includes a disposable portion with an aperture layer that includes first apertures and a patient contact layer that includes an adhesive on a surface thereof. The patient contact layer is formed from a flexible material. The template also includes a reusable portion that includes aperture plates. A locking mechanism can lock catheters firmly in place. One template holder includes a template compartment retainer constructed to hold a brachytherapy template, and a perineum attachment component is connected to the template compartment retainer by a connecting portion. The perineum attachment component includes a perineum attachment portion formed from a flexible material.

Abstract: A particle therapy system includes an accelerator 1 which generates a particle beam for extraction, an irradiation apparatus 21 which irradiates the particle beam to an irradiation target 26, a gantry 18 which rotates together with the irradiation apparatus 21, and an MRI apparatus 50 which rotates together with the gantry 18. The MRI apparatus 50 includes a magnetic circuit composed of an iron core 60 and a plurality of coils 61 serving as a magnetic flux source. The iron core 60 includes two oppositely disposed magnetic poles 63A and 63B, and a return yoke 64 for connecting the magnetic poles 63A and 63B. The magnetic poles 63A, 63B have cavities 65A, 65B. The particle beam passing through the cavity 65A is irradiated to the irradiation target 26.

Abstract: An image-guided method and radio therapy device are provided. The method includes: acquiring a rotation offset, a planned image and a real-time image of a target object; and determining a tracking offset based on the rotation offset, the planned image and the real-time image, the tracking offset being used for tracking the target object; where the rotation offset is generated by a position difference of the target object in a planning stage and a treatment stage. The planned image of the target object is acquired in the planning stage. The tracking offset is determined based on the rotation offset, the planned image and the real-time image. The tracking of the target object based on the tracking offset compensates for image distortion caused by the deflection of the position of the target object in the planning stage and the treatment stage.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a system and a method. The system may include a first device including a treatment head configured to emit a radiation beam. The system may include a second device comprising a body. The body may include one or more openings at a bottom of the recess that allow passage of the radiation beam substantially free of the interference by the body.

Abstract: Proposed is an apparatus for verifying a radiation dose using a patient-specific tumor-shaped scintillator including a probe adapter to which a 3D tumor-shaped scintillator having a guide is attached; a receiving portion to which the probe adapter is detachably coupled; a light guide which extends from the receiving portion and includes optical fiber transmitting visible light generated by irradiating radiation in the 3D tumor-shaped scintillator; a photomultiplier tube converting the visible light transmitted from the light guide into an electric signal and amplifying the converted electric signal; and a current electrometer measuring an output current by inputting the electric signal of the photomultiplier tube.

Abstract: A radiation treatment system may include a gantry configured to rotate around an object, a treatment head moving with the gantry, a plurality of imaging radiation sources configured to emit imaging beams toward the object, and one or more first detectors configured to detect at least a portion of the imaging beams. When the treatment head is delivering a treatment beam to the object, the plurality of imaging radiation sources and the one or more first detectors may be positioned outside at least a portion of a maximum treatment radiation region so as not to interfere with the treatment beam. At least one of the plurality of imaging radiation sources and the one or more first detectors may be positioned at or near an edge of the maximum treatment radiation region.

Abstract: Systems and methods for non-invasive fat reduction can include targeting a region of interest below a surface of skin, which contains fat and delivering ultrasound energy to the region of interest. The ultrasound energy generates a thermal lesion with said ultrasound energy on a fat cell. The lesion can create an opening in the surface of the fat cell, which allows the draining of a fluid out of the fat cell and through the opening. In addition, by applying ultrasound energy to fat cells to increase the temperature to between 43 degrees and 49 degrees, cell apoptosis can be realized, thereby resulting in reduction of fat.

Abstract: The subject matter of the present disclosure generally relates to techniques for following a treatment protocol having one or more treatment parameters to cause a targeted physiological outcome at a distal site, assessing an expression level of a gene in a region of interest after completing the treatment protocol, and modifying the one or more treatment parameters based on the expression level of the gene. The treatment protocol may include one or more ultrasound energy treatments to the region of interest.

Abstract: A filtration arrangement includes a filtration element and a housing disposed around, and retaining the filtration element therein. The housing includes: a first and second ends and a wall portion extending therebetween. An outlet is defined in the housing proximate the first end, a primary inlet is defined in the housing proximate the second end, and a plurality of secondary inlets are defined in the wall portion. The first end of the housing is adapted for coupling to a main housing of a flow generating device encircling an air inlet thereof. The primary and secondary inlets are positioned and structured to communicate ambient air from the surrounding environment to the filtration element. the outlet is positioned and structured to communicate the ambient air that has passed through the filtration element from one or more of the primary and secondary inlets to the air inlet of the flow generating device.