Patent Publication Number: US-2023152194-A1

Title: Extraction system for testing microbial contamination of tissue products

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/381,531 filed Apr. 11, 2019, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/656,254, filed Apr. 11, 2018, of which is assigned to the assignee hereof, and incorporated herein in its entirety by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     Certain medical procedures, such as reconstructive orthopedic procedures, can involve the use of tissue products, such as allografts (e.g., a tissue graft from a donor that is of the same species as the recipient, but not genetically identical), xenografts (e.g., a tissue graft from a donor that is of a different species than the recipient), and/or autografts (e.g., a tissue graft in which the donor and recipient are the same). During such medical procedures, various equipment, components, methods, or techniques can be used to detect microbial contamination of the tissue products before tissue transplantation. 
     For instance, a vessel containing an extraction fluid and a tissue product can be sonicated to release microorganisms from the tissue product into the extraction liquid and the extraction fluid containing the microorganisms can be tested to detect microbial contamination of the tissue product. However, such vessels may be unable to hold large or oddly shaped tissue products or do so in an efficient manner. Moreover, such vessels may not be suitable for testing microbial contamination of soft tissue types (e.g., skin) that may become folded or damaged during microbial contamination detection processes. Furthermore, conventional methods for microbial contamination detection may involve cotton swab or destructive testing methods or techniques. However, cotton swab testing methods may present several disadvantages such as, for example, the antibacterial effects of cotton, the inability of cotton swabs to maintain bacteria for extended periods of time, the inability of cotton swabs to be sensitive to microbial contamination detection from assorted surfaces (e.g., porous, freeze-dried, or frozen tissue products), or the inability of cotton swabs to interact with a full surface area of a tissue product (e.g., a cotton swab may miss crevices or specific folds that makeup a tissue product), which can lead to inaccurately detecting microbial contamination. Destructive testing methods may involve using a small quantity of an unfeasible or low-quality portion of a tissue product to detect microbial contamination of the entire tissue product. However, destructive testing methods also present several disadvantages including, for example, using a small quantity of a tissue product to detect microbial contamination of the entire tissue product, which can lead to inaccurately detecting microbial contamination of the entire tissue product, and use of valuable tissue only for testing. 
     Thus, existing systems and methods for detecting microbial contamination of a tissue product present disadvantages such as, but not limited to, those discussed above. As a result, existing systems and methods may inaccurately detect microbial contamination of a tissue product, which can expose a recipient of the tissue product to a risk of infection. 
     SUMMARY 
     Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to extraction systems and method for testing microbial contamination of tissue products. These systems and methods provide biocompatible solutions that enable tissue products to be submerged in an extraction fluid that may be agitated to detect any microbial contaminants present on the tissue product prior to transplantation and/or other medical usage of the tissue product. 
     In one embodiment, an extraction system for testing microbial contamination is provided. The extraction system may include a biocompatible outer vessel having a side wall and a biocompatible suspension system that is positionable within an interior of the biocompatible outer vessel. The biocompatible suspension system may include a horizontal member on which a tissue sample may be supported and a securement mechanism that is engagable with the side wall of the biocompatible outer vessel to maintain the suspension system at a desired position within the biocompatible outer vessel. 
     In some embodiments, the securement mechanism may include at least one hook that is configured to engage a top end of the side wall. The biocompatible suspension system may include at least one vertical member that is coupled with the horizontal member and the securement mechanism. The biocompatible suspension system may include a clamp that is coupled with the horizontal member. The clamp may be configured to secure a sample to the biocompatible suspension system. In some embodiments, the clamp may be movable along a length of the horizontal member. In some embodiments, the biocompatible outer vessel may have a thickness of between about 0.5 and 3 millimeters. The biocompatible outer vessel may include at least one of a spout, a flange, or a handle. 
     In another embodiment, an extraction system for testing microbial contamination includes a biocompatible outer vessel and one or both of a biocompatible inner vessel or a biocompatible suspension system. The biocompatible inner vessel may be positionable within the biocompatible outer vessel. The biocompatible inner vessel may have a height of approximately thirteen inches and a diameter of approximately four inches. The biocompatible inner vessel may include a handle coupled to the biocompatible inner vessel. The biocompatible suspension system may be positionable within the biocompatible outer vessel. Soft tissue may be positionable on the biocompatible suspension system. The extraction system may be configured to receive a tissue product having a size of at least thirty centimeters. 
     In some embodiments, the biocompatible suspension system may include a curved portion that is configured to secure the biocompatible suspension system to a top end of the biocompatible outer vessel. In some embodiments, the biocompatible suspension system may include a first vertical member, a second vertical member, and a horizontal member that extends between and couples with the first vertical member and the second vertical member. The horizontal member may be configured to support the tissue sample. The biocompatible outer vessel may have a height of between about 4 inches and thirty inches, and in some embodiments may have a diameter of between approximately 2 inches and 8 inches. The biocompatible outer vessel may include at least one of a spout, a flange, or a handle. In some embodiments, the biocompatible outer vessel may include a perforated sheet. 
     In another embodiment, a method of using an extraction system is provided. The method may include securing the tissue sample to a horizontal member of a biocompatible suspension system and submerging at least a portion of the tissue sample in an extraction fluid provided within an interior of a biocompatible outer vessel. The method may also include agitating the extraction fluid for a predetermined period of time to release microorganism from the tissue sample and removing the extraction fluid from the biocompatible outer vessel. The method may further include analyzing the extraction fluid for microbial contamination. 
     In some embodiments, the method may also include removing the biocompatible suspension member and the tissue sample from the biocompatible outer vessel prior to removing the extraction fluid. In some embodiments, the extraction fluid may be agitated using a sonicator. In one embodiment, securing the tissue sample to the horizontal member may involve clamping the tissue sample to the horizontal member using at least one clamp. In some embodiments, the extraction fluid may be removed from the biocompatible outer vessel while the extraction fluid is being agitated, while in other embodiments the extraction fluid may be removed after agitation of the extraction fluid has been completed. In one embodiment, submerging the at least a portion of the tissue sample in the extraction fluid may include coupling a securement mechanism of the biocompatible suspension system to a top end of the biocompatible outer vessel. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG.  1    is a perspective view of an extraction system for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to one example of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  2    is an exploded perspective view of components of an extraction system for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to one example of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  3    a perspective view of an outer vessel of an extraction system for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to one example of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  4    a perspective view of an inner vessel of an extraction system for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to one example of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  5    a perspective view of a ring support of an inner vessel of an extraction system for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to one example of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  6    a perspective view of a side support of an inner vessel of an extraction system for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to one example of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  7    a perspective view of a handle of an inner vessel of an extraction system for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to one example of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  8    a perspective view of a cap of an inner vessel of an extraction system for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to one example of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  9    a perspective view of a bottom support of an inner vessel of an extraction system for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to one example of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  10    a front view of the inner vessel of  FIG.  4   . 
         FIG.  11    a top view of the inner vessel of  FIG.  4   . 
         FIG.  12    a side view of the inner vessel of  FIG.  4   . 
         FIG.  13    a perspective view of an inner vessel of an extraction system for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to another example of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  14    is a perspective view of an extraction system for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to another example of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  15    a perspective view of a suspension system of an extraction system for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to one example of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  16    is a perspective view of an outer vessel of an extraction system for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to another example of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  17    is a front view of the outer vessel of  FIG.  16   . 
         FIG.  18    is a top view of the outer vessel of  FIG.  16   . 
         FIG.  19    is a side view of the outer vessel of  FIG.  16   . 
         FIG.  20    is a back view of the outer vessel of  FIG.  16   . 
         FIG.  21    is a perspective view of an inner vessel of an extraction system for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to another example of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  22    is a side view of the inner vessel of  FIG.  21   . 
         FIG.  23    is a top view of the inner vessel of  FIG.  21   . 
         FIG.  24    is a flow chart depicting an example of a process for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to one example of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  25    is a side view of an extraction system for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to another example of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  26    is a perspective view of an extraction system for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to another example of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  27    a perspective view of a flange of an extraction system for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to one example of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  28    a perspective view of a cap or lid of an extraction system for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to one example of the present disclosure. 
         FIG.  29    is a side view of the extraction system of  FIG.  26   . 
         FIG.  30    is a front view of the extraction system of  FIG.  26   . 
         FIG.  31    is a perspective view of an outer vessel of an extraction system for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to another example of the present disclosure. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Certain aspects and features of the present disclosure are directed to an extraction system for testing microbial contamination of tissue products. The extraction system can include an outer vessel (e.g., chamber) and an inner vessel positioned within the outer vessel. In some instances, the inner and outer vessels can each be made of a biocompatible stainless steel material. In some instances, the inner and outer vessels can each have a circular cross-section (e.g., the inner and outer vessels can each have a cylindrical shape), though other cross-sectional shapes are contemplated. 
     In some instances, the outer vessel can have a first end (e.g., a top end) and a second end (e.g., a bottom end). The first end of the outer vessel can include a spout (e.g., a portion of the first end that extends away from the first end). In some examples, the outer vessel can also include a handle, a flange, or a lid, each of which can be coupled (e.g., attached or connected) to the outer vessel. In some instances, the flange may be coupled to the second end of the outer vessel and can extend away from the second end (e.g., extend approximately one inch away from a circumference of the second end), which can allow the flange to stabilize the extraction system during sonication operations and reduce vibration during such sonication operations. In another example, the flange may extend between approximately 0.5 inches and approximately three inches away from a circumference of the second end of the outer vessel. In some embodiments, the outer vessel can have a height (e.g., length) of approximately fourteen inches. In another example, the outer vessel can have a height between approximately four inches and approximately thirty inches. In still another example, the outer vessel can have a height that is greater than thirty centimeters. As an example, the outer vessel can have a height of thirty-three centimeters. In some examples, the outer vessel can have an inner diameter of approximately four inches. As an example, the outer vessel can have an inner diameter of approximately 4.60 inches. In still another example, the outer vessel can have an inner diameter between approximately twelve centimeters and approximately eleven centimeters. As an example, the outer vessel can have an inner diameter between approximately 11.351 centimeters and approximately 11.509 centimeters. In some examples, the outer vessel can have an average diameter between approximately two inches and approximately eight inches. In some examples, the outer vessel can have a thickness between approximately 0.5 millimeters and approximately three millimeters. In some instances, the outer vessel can have any size or thickness that facilitates or allows transmission of sonic or sound energy from a sonicator device. 
     In some examples, the inner vessel of the extraction system can be a stainless-steel perforated sheet. Generally, the inner vessel may have a height that is the same as or 0.5%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 10%, 15%, or 20% shorter than the height of the outer vessel. In some instances, the inner vessel may have a height that is longer than the height of the outer vessel by 0.5%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 7%, 10%, or 15%. In such instances, the upper end of inner vessel may extend above the upper end of the outer vessel. In one example, the inner vessel can have a height of approximately thirteen inches and a diameter of approximately four inches (e.g., 4.2 inches). In some examples, a height, size, or thickness of the inner vessel can be proportional to a height, size, or thickness of the outer vessel. In some instances, a handle can be coupled to an end (e.g., a top end) of the inner vessel. 
     In this manner, the extraction system can be configured such that one or more tissue products can be positioned within the inner vessel, and the inner vessel, along with an extraction fluid, can be positioned within the outer vessel. The tissue product and extraction fluid can be positioned within the outer vessel such that the tissue product is submerged within the extraction fluid. As an example, the inner vessel may be a stainless-steel perforated sheet that can allow the extraction fluid to flow into the inner vessel to submerge the tissue product. In some instances, the extraction fluid, along with the tissue product, can be agitated (e.g., sonicated) for a period of time to release microorganisms from the tissue product and into the extraction fluid. Subsequently, the inner vessel containing the tissue product can be removed from within the outer vessel, and the extraction fluid that contains released microorganisms can be removed from the outer vessel (e.g., via the spout of the outer vessel and using the handle of the outer vessel) and analyzed for microbial contamination (e.g., cultured to determine if microbial contamination is present). 
     In some embodiments, the extraction system can include a suspension system instead of the inner vessel, and the suspension system can be inserted or positioned within the outer vessel of the extraction system. In some examples, the extraction system can include the suspension system such that soft tissue (e.g., skin, fascia, placental tissues, tendons, etc.) can be placed on, or clamped onto (e.g., via one or more fixed or movable clamps), one or more components of the suspension system, which can allow the extraction system to be sonicated to detect microbial contamination of the soft tissue in substantially the same manner as described above. In some examples, the suspension system can include one or more components that can be made of any suitable material for testing microbial contamination of tissue products. For instance, the suspension system can include one or more rods that can be made of a biocompatible stainless steel material. As an example, the suspension system can include various biocompatible stainless steel horizontal rods coupled or connected to various biocompatible stainless steel vertical rods. The suspension system may include one, two, three, four, or five vertical rods. In some instances, the suspension system may include up to six vertical rods. The suspension system may include one, two, three, four, or five horizontal rods. In some instances, the suspension system may include up to six horizontal rods. The horizontal or vertical rods can be of any suitable size or length. Generally, the vertical rods may have a height that is the same as or 0.5%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 10%, 15%, or 20% shorter than the height of the outer vessel. In some instances, the vertical rods may have a height that is longer than the height of the outer vessel by 0.5%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 7%, 10%, or 15%.] In such instances, the upper end of vertical rods may extend above the upper end of the outer vessel. For example, the vertical rods can each have a length of approximately thirteen inches. The horizontal rods can be coupled to the vertical rods and spaced or positioned along a length of the vertical rods such that the horizontal rods are positioned along a length of the inner vessel within which the suspension system is positioned. 
     As an example, the suspension system can include two vertical rods and a first horizontal rod can be positioned between the two vertical rods and coupled to the two vertical rods. The first horizontal rod can be coupled to the vertical rods at a position that is approximately at a center of the inner vessel. A second horizontal rod can be positioned between the vertical rods and coupled to the vertical rods at a position that is above the first horizontal rod and proximate to the first end (e.g., top end) of the inner vessel. A third horizontal rod can be positioned between the vertical rods and coupled to the vertical rods at a position that is below the first horizontal rod and proximate to a second end (e.g., bottom end) of the inner vessel. 
     In some instances, a first end (e.g., a top end) of the suspension system can include one or more hooks or other components that can be configured for coupling the suspension system to the extraction system. In some instances, the suspension system can include hooks configured for coupling the suspension system to a first end (e.g., top end) of the outer vessel of the extraction system. In some instances, the suspension system can include hooks, clamps, or other fasteners configured for coupling soft tissue to the suspension system. 
     In some instances, the suspension system is configured to be inserted or positioned within an inner vessel as described herein that is positionable within the outer vessel of the extraction system. In such instances, the vertical rods may have a height that is the same as or 0.5%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 10%, 15%, or 20% shorter than the height of the inner vessel. In some instances, the vertical rods may have a height that is longer than the height of the inner vessel by 0.5%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 7%, 10%, or 15%. Other aspects of the relationship between the suspension system and the outer vessel as described herein are also applicable to configurations where the suspension system is positionable within the inner vessel of the extraction system. 
     Embodiments of the present disclosure provide advantages over previous solutions for detecting microbial contamination of a tissue product. For example, systems and methods described herein provide the ability to detect microbial contamination of a wide variety of tissue products (e.g., large or oddly shaped tissue products). Moreover, systems and methods described herein provide the ability to detect microbial contamination of soft tissue types and mitigate the risk of damaging or folding such soft tissues during microbial contamination detection processes. Furthermore, systems and methods described herein can obviate the use of cotton swab or destructive testing methods or techniques, which can inaccurately detecting microbial contamination and expose a recipient of a tissue product to a risk of infection. In addition, systems and methods described herein can minimize a volume of extraction fluid produced during microbial contamination detection operations, which can improve accuracy in testing and may also be more cost effective. 
     The following illustrative examples are given to introduce the general subject matter discussed here and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosed concepts. The following sections describe various additional features and examples with reference to the drawings in which like numerals indicate like elements, and directional descriptions are used to describe the illustrative examples but, like the illustrative examples, should not be used to limit the present disclosure. 
       FIG.  1    is a perspective view of an extraction system  100  for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to one example of the present disclosure. 
     In this example, the extraction system  100  includes an outer vessel  102  and an inner vessel  104  positioned within the outer vessel  102 . The outer vessel  102  and the inner vessel  104  can each have a circular cross-section and can have a cylindrical shape. In other examples, the outer vessel  102  or the inner vessel  104  can have any suitable cross-section or shape such as, for example, square, triangular, oval, trapezoidal, rectangular, or other cross-sections. In some examples, the outer vessel  102  and the inner vessel  104  can have the same shape or cross-section. In another example, the outer vessel  102  and the inner vessel  104  can have different shapes or cross-sections. 
     The inner vessel  104  can include an opening  110  at a first end (e.g., a top end) of the inner vessel  104 , which can allow a tissue product (e.g., a head of a femur or femoral shafts) to be positioned within the inner vessel  104 . In some examples, the inner vessel  104  can include a handle  112  that is coupled to the inner vessel  104 . 
     In some examples, the extraction system  100  can be configured such that a tissue product having a size (e.g., length) of at least thirty centimeters can be positioned within the extraction system  100  (e.g., within the inner vessel  104 ). In some examples, a size of the extraction system  100  can be less than approximately 29.2×24.1 cm 2 . In some examples, a size of the extraction system  100  can be less than approximately 704.83 cm 2 ′ In some examples, the one or more components of the extraction system  100  can have a combined thickness that is less than approximately 0.635 cm. In another example, the outer vessel  102  can have a thickness that is less than approximately 0.635 cm. In some examples, the extraction system  100  or a component of the extraction system  100  can have any suitable size or thickness for testing microbial contamination of tissue products. In some examples, one or more components of the extraction system  100  can have a size or thickness that is suitable for sonication operations for testing microbial contamination of allograft tissue or other tissue products (e.g., a size or thickness that facilitates or allows transmission of sonic or sound energy from a sonicator device). 
     In some examples, one or more components of the extraction system  100  can be made of any material that is capable of withstanding temperatures above approximately one hundred and thirty degrees Celsius (e.g., any material having a melting point greater than approximately one hundred and thirty degrees Celsius). In some examples, one or more components of the extraction system  100  can be made of any material that is capable of enduring (e.g., withstanding) sonication at a frequency of at least approximately 40 kHz. In some examples, one or more components of the extraction system  100  can be made of any material that is capable of enduring sonication at a frequency of at least approximately 32 kHz. In some examples, one or more components of the extraction system  100  can be made of any material that is capable of enduring sonication at a frequency of at least approximately 40 kHz. As an example, one or more components of the extraction system  100  can be made of any material that is capable of enduring sonication at a frequency between approximately 36 kHz and 48 kHz. As another example, one or more components of the extraction system  100  can be made of any material that is capable of enduring sonication at a frequency between approximately 34 kHz and 46 kHz. 
     In some examples, one or more components of the extraction system  100  can be made of any material that is capable of enduring sonication at an intensity of at least approximately 50 Watts per gallon. In some examples, one or more components of the extraction system  100  can be made of any material that is capable of enduring sonication at an intensity between approximately 50 Watts per gallon and approximately 200 Watts per gallon. In some examples, one or more components of the extraction system  100  can be made of any material that is capable of enduring sonication at an intensity between approximately 100 Watts per gallon and approximately 550 Watts per gallon. In some examples, one or more components of the extraction system  100  can be made of any material that is capable of enduring sonication at an intensity between approximately 200 Watts per gallon and approximately 400 Watts per gallon. 
     In some examples, the extraction system  100  or a component of the extraction system  100  can be made of any suitable material for testing microbial contamination of tissue products. The various components of the extraction system  100  can be fabricated using any suitable method or technique including, for example, three-dimensional printing methods and techniques. 
       FIG.  2    is an exploded perspective view of components of an extraction system  200  for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to one example of the present disclosure. In the example depicted in  FIG.  2   , the extraction system  100  includes the outer vessel  202  and the inner vessel  204 . 
     In some examples, the extraction system  200  can be configured such that one or more tissue products  206  such as, for example, a head of a femur, can be positioned within the inner vessel  204 . The tissue product  206 , along with the inner vessel  204 , can be positioned within the outer vessel  202  and an extraction fluid  208  (e.g., water or other suitable fluid) can be dispersed into the outer vessel  202 . The tissue product  206  and the inner vessel  204  can be positioned within the outer vessel  202  such that the tissue product  206  is submerged within the extraction fluid  208 . As an example, the inner vessel  204  may be a stainless steel perforated sheet that allows the extraction fluid  208  to flow into the inner vessel  204  to submerge the tissue product  206 . 
       FIG.  3    a perspective view of an outer vessel  300  of an extraction system (e.g., the outer vessel  202  of the extraction system  200  of  FIG.  2   ) for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to one example of the present disclosure. 
     In some embodiments, the outer vessel  300  can be made of any of biocompatible stainless steel (e.g., 316 or 304 stainless steel), a biocompatible polycarbonate material, glass, titanium, etc. In some examples, the outer vessel  300  can be made of any material that is capable of withstanding temperatures above approximately one hundred and thirty degrees Celsius (e.g., any material having a melting point greater than approximately one hundred and thirty degrees Celsius). In another example, the outer vessel  300  can be made of any suitable material for testing microbial contamination of tissue products. 
     The outer vessel  300  can have a height (e.g., length) of approximately fourteen inches. In another example, the outer vessel  300  can have a height between approximately four inches and approximately thirty inches. In still another example, the outer vessel  300  can have a height that is greater than thirty centimeters. As an example, the outer vessel  300  can have a height of thirty-three centimeters. 
     In some examples, the outer vessel  300  can have an outer diameter of approximately five inches. In another example, the outer vessel  300  can have an outer diameter between approximately twelve centimeters and thirteen centimeters. As an example, the outer vessel  300  can have an outer diameter between approximately 12.621 centimeters and 12.779 centimeters. In some examples, the outer vessel  300  can have an inner diameter of approximately four inches. As an example, the outer vessel  300  can have an inner diameter of approximately 4.60 inches. In still another example, the outer vessel  300  can have an inner diameter between approximately twelve centimeters and approximately eleven centimeters. As an example, the outer vessel  300  can have an inner diameter between approximately 11.351 centimeters and approximately 11.509 centimeters. In some examples, the outer vessel  300  can have an average diameter between approximately two inches and approximately eight inches. 
     In some examples, the outer vessel  300  can have any suitable height, diameter, shape, or configuration for testing microbial contamination of tissue products. 
     In some instances, the outer vessel  300  can have a first end (e.g., a top end) and a second end (e.g., a bottom end). In some examples, the first end of the outer vessel  300  can include a spout (e.g., a projecting portion of the first end that extends away from the first end). For example, and with reference to  FIG.  1   , the outer vessel  300  can include a spout  106  at a first end of the outer vessel  300 . 
     In some examples, the outer vessel  300  can also include a handle, a flange, or a lid, each of which can be coupled or connected to the outer vessel  300 . For example, and with reference to  FIG.  1   , the outer vessel  300  can include a handle  108 . 
     Returning to  FIG.  3   , in some examples, the outer vessel  300  can include an opening  302  at a first end (e.g., a top end) of the outer vessel  300 , which can allow an inner vessel of an extraction system  100  (e.g., the inner vessel  204  of  FIG.  2    or any other inner vessel or suspension system described herein) to be positioned within the outer vessel  300 . 
     In some instances, outer vessel  300  can include a flange that may be coupled (e.g., attached or connected) to a second end (e.g., bottom end) of the outer vessel  300  and the flange can extend away from the second end (e.g., extend approximately one inch away from a circumference of the second end), which can allow the flange to stabilize the outer vessel  300  or an extraction system (e.g., the extraction system of  FIGS.  1 - 2   ) during sonication operations and reduce vibration during such sonication operations. 
       FIG.  4    a perspective view of an inner vessel  400  of an extraction system for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to one example of the present disclosure. 
     In some embodiments, the inner vessel  400  can be made of any of biocompatible stainless steel (e.g., 316 or 304 stainless steel), a biocompatible polycarbonate material, glass, titanium, etc. In some examples, the inner vessel  400  can be a stainless steel perforated sheet. As an example, the inner vessel  400  can be a 316 stainless steel wire cloth or a 316 stainless steel perforated sheet that includes openings, which can be of various sizes such as, for example, approximately 0.69 cm or approximately 0.63 cm openings. In other examples, the inner vessel  400  can include openings of any suitable size, shape, or configuration. In some examples, the inner vessel  400  can be any size, shape, or configuration suitable for retaining an allograft or other tissue product within the inner vessel  400  and allowing an extraction fluid to flow through the inner vessel  400  and around the allograft or other tissue product positioned within the inner vessel  400 . 
     In some examples, the inner vessel  400  can be made of any material that is capable of withstanding temperatures above approximately one hundred and thirty degrees Celsius (e.g., any material having a melting point greater than approximately one hundred and thirty degrees Celsius). In another example, the inner vessel  400  can be made of any suitable material for testing microbial contamination of tissue products. 
     In one example, the inner vessel  400  can have a height of approximately thirteen inches and a diameter of approximately four inches. As an example, the inner vessel  400  can have a diameter of approximately 4.2 inches. In some examples, the inner vessel  400  can have any suitable thickness including, for example, a thickness of approximately 0.15 centimeters. In another example, the inner vessel  400  can have a thickness between approximately 0.05 centimeters and approximately 0.3 centimeters. 
     In some examples, the inner vessel  400  can have any suitable height, diameter, or shape for testing microbial contamination of tissue products and for being positionable within an outer vessel of an extraction system. 
     In some examples, the inner vessel  400  can include a handle  402  that is coupled to a portion of the inner vessel  400 . In some instances, the handle  402  can be made of the same material as the inner vessel  400  (e.g., 316 or 304 stainless steel, biocompatible polycarbonate material, etc.) or any suitable material for testing microbial contamination of tissue products. In this example, the handle  402  can be coupled to a ring support  404  of the inner vessel  400  that is coupled to a first end (e.g., a top end) of the inner vessel  400 . The handle  402  can be coupled to the ring support  404  via one or more side supports  406  coupled to the ring support  404 . 
     For example,  FIG.  5    a perspective view of a ring support  404  of an inner vessel (e.g., the inner vessel  400  of  FIG.  4   ) of an extraction system for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to one example of the present disclosure. In some examples, the ring support  404  can be configured for coupling a handle (e.g., the handle  402  of  FIG.  4   ) to the inner vessel. 
       FIG.  6    a perspective view of a side support  406  of an inner vessel (e.g., the inner vessel  400  of  FIG.  4   ) of an extraction system for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to one example of the present disclosure. In some examples, the side support  406  can be configured for coupling a handle (e.g., the handle  402  of  FIG.  4   ) to a ring support (e.g., the ring support  404  of  FIGS.  4 - 5   ) of an inner vessel. 
       FIG.  7    a perspective view of a handle  402  of an inner vessel (e.g., the inner vessel  400  of  FIG.  4   ) of an extraction system for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to one example of the present disclosure. Other handle configurations are also contemplated. 
     Returning to  FIG.  4   , in some examples, the inner vessel  400  can include a cap or lid, which can be coupled to the first end of the inner vessel  400  to seal the inner vessel  400 . For example,  FIG.  8    a perspective view of a cap  800  of an inner vessel (e.g., the inner vessel  400  of  FIG.  4   ) of an extraction system for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to one example of the present disclosure. 
     Also in reference to  FIG.  4   , the inner vessel  400  can also include an opening  408  at the first end (e.g., the top end) of the inner vessel  400 , which can allow a tissue product (e.g., the tissue product  206  of  FIG.  2   ) to be positioned within the inner vessel  400 . 
       FIG.  9    a perspective view of a bottom support  900  of an inner vessel of an extraction system for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to one example of the present disclosure. In some examples, the bottom support  900  can be of any shape, size, or thickness such that the bottom support  900  can support one or more components of the inner vessel. As an example, the bottom support  900  can provide rigidity to the inner vessel (e.g., to maintain an integrity of a shape of the inner vessel), which can prevent the inner vessel from bowing or bulging. For instance, the bottom support  900  can be a rod, a ring, etc. for providing rigidity to the inner vessel. In some examples, the inner vessel can include one or more bottom supports  900  that are positioned vertically, horizontally, or in a weave pattern on or within the inner vessel. In some instances, the one or more bottom supports can be positioned at any suitable location on the inner vessel including, for example, proximate to a first end (e.g., a top end) of the inner vessel, proximate to a center of the inner vessel, or proximate to a second end (e.g., a bottom end) of the inner vessel. In some instances, one or more vertical support rods may be positioned vertically along the inner or outer walls that form the sides of the inner vessel. In some instances, one or more ring-shaped support rods may be positioned along the inner or outer walls of the inner vessel. Such ring-shaped rods may be affixed to one or more vertical support rods. 
       FIG.  10    a front view of the inner vessel of  FIG.  4   . 
       FIG.  11    a top view of the inner vessel of  FIG.  4   . 
       FIG.  12    a side view of the inner vessel of  FIG.  4   . 
       FIG.  13    a perspective view of an inner vessel  1300  of an extraction system (e.g., the extraction system  100  of  FIGS.  1 - 2   ) for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to another example of the present disclosure. 
     In this example, the inner vessel  1300  can be made of biocompatible stainless steel (e.g., 316 or 304 stainless steel), a biocompatible polycarbonate material, etc. and can allow extraction fluid (e.g., the extraction fluid  208  of  FIG.  2   ) to flow into the inner vessel  1300  to submerge a tissue product (e.g., the tissue product  206  of  FIG.  2   ). As an example, the inner vessel  1300  can be a stainless steel (SS) wire cloth or a SS perforated sheet that includes openings and the openings can be of various sizes such as, for example, approximately 0.69 cm or approximately 0.63 cm openings. In another example, the inner vessel  1300  can include openings of any suitable size, shape, or configuration for testing microbial contamination of tissue products. 
       FIG.  14    is a perspective view of an extraction system  1400  for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to another example of the present disclosure. 
     The extraction system  1400  can include an outer vessel  1402  that can be configured in substantially the same manner as the outer vessel of  FIGS.  1 - 4    although it need not be. In some examples, the outer vessel  1402  can include a handle  1404 . 
     In this example, the extraction system  1400  can include a suspension system  1406  rather than an inner vessel (e.g., instead of the inner vessel of  FIGS.  1 - 4   ). 
     The suspension system  1406  can be positioned within the outer vessel  1402  of the extraction system  1400  and can include one or more components on which tissue (e.g., soft tissue) can be placed for testing microbial contamination of the tissue. For example,  FIG.  15    a perspective view of a suspension system  1406  of the extraction system  1400  for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to one example of the present disclosure. 
     In this example, the suspension system  1406  can be positioned within an extraction system (e.g., within the outer vessel of the extraction system). The suspension system  1406  can include one or more horizontal rods  1502   a - c  or one or more vertical rods  1504   a - b , each of which can be of any suitable size, length, shape, etc. for testing microbial contamination of tissue products. In some instances, suspension system  1406  comprises at least two vertical rods  1504   a - b  and at least one or at least two horizontal rods  1502   a - c . As an example, each vertical rod  1504   a - b  can have a length of approximately thirteen inches. In some examples, a length of a vertical rod  1504   a - b  can be within approximately one-tenth of a centimeter from a length of the outer vessel. In another example, a length of a horizontal rod  1502   a - c  can be within a tenth of a centimeter from an internal diameter of the outer vessel. In some examples, each rod  1502   a - c  and  1504   a - b  can be made of any material for testing microbial contamination of tissue products. As an example, each rod  1502   a - c  and  1504   a - b  can be made of a biocompatible stainless steel material (e.g., 316 or 304 stainless steel), biocompatible polycarbonate material, etc. 
     The horizontal rods  1502   a - c  can be coupled (e.g., attached) to the vertical rods  1504   a - b  and spaced or positioned along a length of the vertical rods  1504   a - b . For example, the horizontal rods  1502   a - c  can be spaced along the length of the vertical rods  1504   a - b  such that the horizontal rods  1502   a - c  are positioned along a length of an outer vessel of an extraction system within which the suspension system  1406  is positioned. As an example, a first horizontal rod  1502   b  can be coupled to the vertical rods  1504   a - c  at a position that is approximately at a center of an outer vessel of the extraction system within which the suspension system  1406  is positioned (e.g., the inner vessel of  FIGS.  1 - 4   ). As another example, a second horizontal rod  1502   c  can be coupled to the vertical rods  1504   a - c  at a position that is above the horizontal rod  1502   b  and proximate to a first end (e.g., a top end) of the outer vessel. For instance, the horizontal rod  1502   c  can be coupled to the vertical rods  1504   a - c  at a position that is approximately one inch from the first end of the outer vessel of the extraction system within which the suspension system  1406  is positioned. As still another example, a third horizontal rod  1502   a  can be coupled to the vertical rods  1504   a - c  at a position that is below the horizontal rod  1502   b  and proximate to a second end (e.g., a bottom end) of the outer vessel. For instance, the horizontal rod  1502   a  can be coupled to the vertical rods  1504   a - c  at a position that is approximately 0.25 inches from the second end of the outer vessel of the extraction system within which the suspension system  1406  is positioned. 
     In some examples the suspension system  1406  can include one or more hooks  1506   a - b , curves, or other components that can be configured for coupling the suspension system  1406  to an outer vessel of an extraction system. For example, and with reference to  FIGS.  14 - 15   , the suspension system  1406  can include hooks  1506   a - b  at a first end (e.g., a top end) of the suspension system  1406 . The hooks  1506   a - b  can be configured for coupling the suspension system  1406  to a first end of the outer vessel  1402 . 
     In some examples, the suspension system  1406  can be positioned within the outer vessel  1402  of the extraction system  1400  and coupled to the extraction system  1400  such that tissue (e.g., soft tissue such as, for example, skin, fascia, placental tissues, tendons, etc.) can be placed on, or clamped onto (e.g., via one or more fixed or moveable clamps or other fastening devices), one or more components of the suspension system  1406  (e.g., the horizontal rods  1502   a - c ), which can allow the extraction system  1400  to be used to detect microbial contamination of the tissue in substantially the same manner as described above. 
     While in  FIGS.  14 - 15   , the suspension system  1406  is depicted as including various rods and one or more hooks or curves, the present disclosure is not limited to such configurations. Rather, in some embodiments, a suspension system of an extraction system can include any component for detecting microbial contamination of tissue. As an example, the suspension system can include one or more trays on which allograft, autograft, and/or xenograft products, tissue, powder, granules, fragments, etc. can be placed for detecting microbial contamination of the allograft, autograft, and/or xenograft product, tissue, or powder in substantially the same manner as described above. 
     Furthermore, while in some examples described above, the extraction system is described as including an inner vessel that includes a handle, the present disclosure is not limited to such configurations. Rather, in some embodiments, an inner vessel of an extraction system may not include a handle. 
       FIG.  16    is a perspective view of an outer vessel  1602  of an extraction system for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to another example of the present disclosure. 
     The outer vessel  1602  can be configured in substantially the same manner the outer vessel of  FIGS.  1 - 4   , although it need not be. In some examples, the outer vessel  1602  can include a handle  1604  and a first end (e.g., a top end) of the outer vessel  1602  can include a spout  1606  (e.g., a portion of the first end that extends or projects away from the first end). 
       FIG.  17    is a front view of the outer vessel of  FIG.  16   . 
       FIG.  18    is a top view of the outer vessel of  FIG.  16   . 
       FIG.  19    is a side view of the outer vessel of the  1602  of  FIG.  16   . 
       FIG.  20    is a back view of the outer vessel of  FIG.  16   . 
       FIG.  21    is a perspective view of an inner vessel  2100  of an extraction system for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to another example of the present disclosure. In this example, the inner vessel  2100  may not include a handle (e.g., the handle  112  of  FIG.  1   ). 
       FIG.  22    is a side view of the inner vessel  2100  of  FIG.  21   . 
       FIG.  23    is a top view of the inner vessel  2100  of  FIG.  21   . 
       FIG.  24    is a flow chart depicting an example of a process  2400  for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to one example of the present disclosure. Other examples can include more steps, fewer steps, or a different order of the steps shown in  FIG.  24   . The steps below are described with reference to the components of  FIGS.  1 - 15   , but other implementations are possible. 
     In block  2402 , an extraction system  100  is provided. The extraction system  100  includes an outer vessel  102  and an inner vessel  104  positioned within the outer vessel  102 . 
     The outer vessel  102  can have a height of approximately fourteen inches, an inner diameter of approximately four inches (e.g., 4.60 inches), and an outer diameter of approximately five inches. In some examples, the outer vessel  102  can have a height between approximately four inches and approximately thirty inches. In still another example, the outer vessel  102  can have a height that is greater than thirty centimeters. As an example, the outer vessel  102  can have a height of thirty-three centimeters. In still another example, the outer vessel  102  can have an inner diameter between approximately twelve centimeters and approximately eleven centimeters. As an example, the outer vessel  102  can have an inner diameter between approximately 11.351 centimeters and approximately 11.509 centimeters. In some examples, the outer vessel  102  can have an average diameter between approximately two inches and approximately eight inches. 
     In some instances, the outer vessel  102  can have a first end (e.g., a top end) and the first end of the outer vessel  102  can include a spout  106  (e.g., a portion of the first end that extends away from the first end). In some examples, the outer vessel  102  can also include a handle, a flange, or a lid, each of which can be coupled to the outer vessel  102 . In some instances, the flange may be coupled (e.g., attached or connected) to a second end (e.g., bottom end) of the outer vessel  102  and can extend away from the second end (e.g., extend approximately one inch away from a circumference of the second end), which can allow the flange to stabilize the extraction system  100  and reduce vibration during sonication operations. 
     In some examples, the inner vessel  104  of the extraction system  100  can be a stainless steel perforated sheet. The inner vessel  104  can have a height of approximately thirteen inches and a diameter of approximately four inches (e.g., 4.2 inches). In some examples, a height, size, or thickness of the inner vessel  104  can be proportional to a height, size, or thickness of the outer vessel  102 . In some instances, a handle  112  can be coupled to an end (e.g., a top end) of the inner vessel  104 . 
     The extraction system  100  can include a suspension system  1406 , which can be positioned within the outer vessel  102  and the suspension system  1406  can include one or more components on which tissue (e.g., soft tissue) can be placed for testing microbial contamination of the tissue. 
     In some examples, the extraction system  100  can include the suspension system  1406  instead of the inner vessel  104 . In some examples, the extraction system  100  can include the suspension system  1406  positioned within the inner vessel  104   
     In block  2404 , a tissue product  206  is positioned within the inner vessel  104 . For example, a head of a femur or other femoral shaft is positioned within the inner vessel  104 . In some examples, if the extraction system  100  includes the suspension system  1406  in block  2404 , tissue can be clamped on the suspension system  1406 . For example, soft tissue such as, for example, skin, fascia, placental tissues, tendons, etc. is placed on, or clamped onto (e.g., via one or more fixed or moveable clamps or fastening devices), one or more components of the suspension system  1406  (e.g., horizontal rods  1502   a - c  of the suspension system  1406 ). 
     In block  2406 , an extraction fluid  208  is provided in the outer vessel  102 . For example, water or other suitable extraction fluid  208  can be dispersed into the outer vessel  102 . 
     In some examples, the tissue product  206  (the tissue) and the extraction fluid  208  can be positioned within the outer vessel  102  such that the tissue product  206  is submerged within the extraction fluid  208 . As an example, the inner vessel  104  is a stainless steel perforated sheet or wire cloth that can allow the extraction fluid  208  to flow into the inner vessel  104  to submerge the tissue product  206 . In some examples, if the extraction system  100  includes the suspension system  1406 , in block  2406 , the tissue and the extraction fluid  208  can be positioned within the outer vessel  102  or, if the inner vessel  104  is present, within the inner vessel  104 , such that the tissue is submerged within the extraction fluid  208 . 
     For example,  FIG.  25    is a side view of an extraction system  2500  for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to another example of the present disclosure. 
     In the example depicted in  FIG.  25   , a tissue product  2502  (a portion of femoral bone) positioned within the extraction system  2500  (e.g., within an inner vessel of the extraction system  2500 ) is submerged by extraction fluid positioned within the extraction system  2500 . 
     Returning to  FIG.  24   , in block  2408 , the extraction fluid  208  is agitated for a predetermined amount of time. 
     For example, the extraction fluid  208 , along with the tissue product  206  and the tissue on the suspension system  1406 , can be agitated (e.g., sonicated) for a period of time to release microorganisms from the tissue product  206  and the tissue into the extraction fluid  208 . In one example, a tank of a sonicator is filled with water (such as between about 2-4 L). The extraction system  2500  (e.g., an outer vessel and any other interior components) containing the tissue and extraction fluid is placed into the tank. Ultrasonic motors of the sonicator proximate the tank are engaged to produce ultrasonic energy that propagates through the extraction system  2500 . The ultrasonic energy is sufficient to “shake loose” microorganisms from the tissue surface, but is not so strong that it kills the microbes. 
     In block  2410 , the inner vessel  104  including the tissue product  206  and the tissue are removed from the extraction fluid  208  and outer vessel  102 . 
     In block  2412 , the extraction fluid  208  is removed from the outer vessel  102 . For example, the extraction fluid  208  that contains microorganisms released from the tissue can be removed from the outer vessel  102  (e.g., via a spout  106  of the outer vessel  102  and using a handle  108  of the outer vessel  102 ). 
     In block  2414 , the extraction fluid  208  is analyzed for microbial contamination (e.g., cultured to determine if microbial contamination is present). 
     While in this example, the inner vessel  104  is removed from within the outer vessel  102  after agitating the extraction system  100 , the present disclosure is not limited to such configurations. Rather, in some examples, the inner vessel  104  can be removed while the extraction fluid  208  and the extraction system  100  is being agitated and the extraction fluid  208  can subsequently be analyzed for microbial contamination in substantially the same manner as described above. 
       FIG.  26    is a perspective view of an extraction system  2600  for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to another example of the present disclosure. 
     The extraction system  2600  can include an outer vessel  2602  and an inner vessel  2604  positioned within the outer vessel  2602 . The inner vessel  2604  and outer vessel  2602  can each be made of a biocompatible stainless steel material and can each have a circular cross-section (e.g., the inner and outer vessels can each have a cylindrical shape) formed from a single side wall. In other embodiments, multiple curved and/or straight side walls may be joined to form an inner vessel  2604  and/or outer vessel  2602  having a non-circular cross-section. 
     In some examples, the outer vessel  2602  can have a first end (e.g., a top end) and a second end (e.g., a bottom end). The first end of the outer vessel  2602  can include a spout  2606  (e.g., a portion of the first end that extends away from the first end). In some examples, the outer vessel  2602  can also include a handle  2608 , a flange  2610 , or a lid (e.g., cap)  2612 , each of which can be coupled (e.g., attached or connected) to the outer vessel  2602 . In some instances, the flange  2610  may be coupled to the second end of the outer vessel  2602  and can extend away from the second end (e.g., extend approximately one inch away from a circumference of the second end), which can allow the flange  2610  to stabilize the extraction system  2600  during sonication operations and reduce vibration during such sonication operations. 
     For example,  FIG.  27    is a perspective view of a flange  2610  of an extraction system for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to one example of the present disclosure. In some instances, the flange  2610  may be a ring shape with a void defined in the center, the void defined to fit the outer diameter of the outer vessel  2602 . In some examples, the flange  2610  can be a disc that can be coupled to an end of an extraction system (e.g., a bottom of the extraction system). In this example, the disc can have a diameter that is greater than a diameter of an outer vessel  2602  of the extraction system such that the disc extends beyond a perimeter of the outer vessel  2602  to form a flange. While circular shapes are shown for flange  2610 , this component can be configured to match the shape of the outer vessel  2602  of the extraction system. 
       FIG.  28    a perspective view of a cap or lid  2612  of an extraction system for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to one example of the present disclosure. In some examples, the cap or lid  2612  can be configured such that the lid  2612  can be coupled to a first end (e.g., top end) of an outer vessel of an extraction system (e.g., the outer vessel  2602  of  FIG.  26   ) to seal the extraction system (e.g., seal the extraction system  2600 ). 
     Returning to  FIG.  26   , the inner vessel  2604  can include an opening  2614  at a first end (e.g., a top end) of the inner vessel  2604 , which can allow a tissue product (e.g., a head of a femur or other femoral shafts) to be positioned within the inner vessel  2604 . In some examples, the inner vessel  2604  can include a handle  2616  that is coupled to the inner vessel  2604 . 
       FIG.  29    is a side view of the extraction system of  FIG.  26   . 
       FIG.  30    is a front view of the extraction system of  FIG.  26   . 
       FIG.  31    is a perspective view of an outer vessel of an extraction system for testing microbial contamination of tissue products, according to another example of the present disclosure. 
     Example 
     Testing was conducted to determine the effectiveness of the extraction system of the present disclosure. A microbial culturing method (extraction culture) was used in which tissue is placed into a fluid bath within an extraction vessel (such as those described herein). In such microbial culturing processes, tissue is then exposed to sonic energy via an ultrasonicator. The delivered energy from the sonicator has the capability to liberate microorganisms from the tissue into the fluid which can then be assayed to determine the presence of microbial contamination on the tissue. 
     To evaluate the effectiveness of the new extraction vessel design, testing was performed to ensure energy was being propagated through a prototype vessel. Energy levels within the prototype vessel were measured and compared to measured energy levels within a conventional extraction vessel. Testing parameters included extraction vessel water level and position of an energy meter within the vessel. 
     Prototype Description 
     The prototype extraction vessel was a stainless steel outer extraction vessel having a handle and spout, very much like is shown in  FIG.  1   . The dimensions of the prototype vessel were approximately 13.5 inches tall by 5 inches outer diameter and 4.75 inches inner diameter. 
     A Branson 5800 Ultrasonicator was prepared by filling a tank of the sonicator with 2 L of water. The extraction vessel was inserted into the tank. A PPB Megasonics pb-500 Ultrasonic Energy Meter was inserted into the vessel. The depth of the energy meter was controlled by affixing a measuring end of the energy meter to the desired spot on a ruler with rubber bands. The ruler and energy meter were then lowered into the extraction vessel until the ruler reached the bottom of the extraction vessel. The extraction vessel was filled with varying depths of water. To take measurements, the sonicator was activated at an output of 160 W at 40 kHz, the energy meter was placed into position, the energy meter was activated, and an average energy output (in W/gal) was measured over a 1-minute span. This procedure was followed for both a conventional extraction vessel and a prototype extraction vessel based on the present disclosure. 
     Table 1 illustrates energy within each vessel as measured at center-bottom (½ inch from base) of vessel with varying water levels. Average energy reading is shown in W/gal. 
     
       
         
           
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
                 TABLE 1 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Vessel 
                 1 L water 
                 2 L water 
                 3 L water 
                 4 L water 
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 #1 conventional 
                 5 
                 6 
                 4 
                 7 
               
               
                 #2 prototype 
                 7 
                 8 
                 11 
                 8 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     Table 2 illustrates energy in W/gal as measured at edge-bottom (½ inch from base) of vessel with varying water levels. 
     
       
         
           
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
                 TABLE 2 
               
               
                   
               
               
                 Vessel 
                 1 L water 
                 2 L water 
                 3 L water 
                 4 L water 
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 #1 conventional 
                 5 
                 3 
                 2 
                 3 
               
               
                 #2 prototype 
                 4 
                 11 
                 4 
                 7 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     Table 3 illustrates energy in W/gal as measured at center of vessel at varying depths and fixed water level of 4 L. 
     
       
         
           
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
                 TABLE 3 
               
               
                   
               
               
                   
                 1 inch from  
                 2 inches from 
                 3 inches from 
                 4 inches from 
               
               
                 Vessel 
                 base 
                 base 
                 base 
                 base 
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                 #1 conventional 
                 12 
                 19 
                 16 
                 13 
               
               
                 #2 prototype 
                 19 
                 15 
                 14 
                 19 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     These results demonstrate that energy effectively propagates through the prototype vessel and that energy levels in the prototype vessel were comparable to those found in conventional vessels. 
     The foregoing description of certain examples, including illustrated examples, has been presented only for the purpose of illustration and description and is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise forms disclosed. 
     Numerous modifications, adaptations, and uses thereof will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the disclosure. 
     Also, the words “comprise”, “comprising”, “contains”, “containing”, “include”, “including”, and “includes”, when used in this specification and in the following claims, are intended to specify the presence of stated features, integers, components, or steps, but they do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, components, steps, acts, or groups. 
     Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly or conventionally understood. As used herein, the articles “a” and “an” refer to one or to more than one (i.e., to at least one) of the grammatical object of the article. By way of example, “an element” means one element or more than one element. “About” and/or “approximately” as used herein when referring to a measurable value such as an amount, a temporal duration, and the like, encompasses variations of ±20% or ±10%, ±5%, or +0.1% from the specified value, as such variations are appropriate to in the context of the systems, devices, circuits, methods, and other implementations described herein. “Substantially” as used herein when referring to a measurable value such as an amount, a temporal duration, a physical attribute (such as frequency), and the like, also encompasses variations of ±20% or ±10%, ±5%, or +0.1% from the specified value, as such variations are appropriate to in the context of the systems, devices, circuits, methods, and other implementations described herein. 
     As used herein, including in the claims, “and” as used in a list of items prefaced by “at least one of” or “one or more of” indicates that any combination of the listed items may be used. For example, a list of “at least one of A, B, and C” includes any of the combinations A or B or C or AB or AC or BC and/or ABC (i.e., A and B and C). Furthermore, to the extent more than one occurrence or use of the items A, B, or C is possible, multiple uses of A, B, and/or C may form part of the contemplated combinations. For example, a list of “at least one of A, B, and C” may also include AA, AAB, AAA, BB, etc.