Polyvinyl Alcohol Particles Research Articles

Uterine Artery Embolization for Iatrogenic Uterine Vascular Injuries

Abstract Purpose Uterine curettage or surgery can lead to uterine vascular injuries such as arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) or pseudoaneurysms (PsAs), and patients may present with life-threatening uterine bleeding. The purpose of our study is to evaluate the effectiveness of uterine artery embolization (UAE) in patients with abnormal uterine bleeding due to iatrogenic vascular injuries. Methods This is a retrospective review of 22 patients who underwent UAE at our institution between January 2019 and January 2023. Sixteen patients had a history of iatrogenic procedures. Uterine curettage was done in 12 patients, manual vacuum aspiration in 1 patient, and cesarean surgery in 3 patients. The outcomes were assessed in the form of technical feasibility, cessation of bleeding, recurrence, and pregnancy on follow-up. Results Eighteen (18/22) patients had vascular malformations and 4 (4/22) had PsA on computed tomography. Eight patients had typical AVM features with early draining vein and 10 patients had hypertrophied vessels with no early draining veins. A total of 35 uterine arteries were embolized in 22 patients. The most commonly used embolic material was polyvinyl alcohol particles (28/35 arteries). Postembolization, bleeding symptoms subsided in 19 patients (86.4%). Three patients had recurrence of bleeding symptoms for which they underwent repeat embolization. Six patients (27%) became pregnant during the follow-up period of 15 months. Conclusion UAE is a safe and effective treatment for iatrogenic uterine vascular injuries. This procedure allows for the preservation of uterine function with the possibility of future pregnancy and should be considered as a primary treatment option.

Comparing embolic particles for prostatic artery embolization to treat lower urinary tract symptoms in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Compare the safety and efficacy of polyvinyl alcohol particles (PVA) versus trisacryl gelatin microspheres (Embospheres) versus hydrogel microspheres coated with polyzene-F (Embozenes) for prostatic artery embolization (PAE) to treat patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). A single-center prospective cohort study from 2019 to 2023, including patients with international prostate symptom score (IPSS) ≥ 15 and/or quality of life score (QoL) ≥ 4. Allocation to embolic agents was performed chronologically: 100-300 µm PVA (n = 53), followed by 300-500 µm Embospheres (n = 50), and finally, 400 µm Embozenes (n = 50). All patients were evaluated at baseline and at 1 and 6 months after PAE with IPSS/QoL; peak urinary flow rate, post-void residual volume, and prostate volume with ultrasound and prostate-specific antigen. Adverse events and the need for prostatic re-interventions were assessed. There were no significant baseline differences between the three groups except for patient age (62.5 years PVA; 66.1 years Embospheres and 66.6 years Embozenes; p = 0.019). There were no major adverse events and no differences between groups regarding minor adverse events. All outcome measures improved significantly from baseline, with no significant differences between groups. Mean ± standard deviation IPSS/QoL improvement at 6 months: -10.7 ± 7.9/-2.2 ± 1.7 PVA; -10.4 ± 7.3/-2.0 ± 1.5 Embospheres; -10.4 ± 7.0/-2.2 ± 1.6 Embozenes (p = 0.987). Re-intervention rates after 6 months: 9% (n = 5/53) PVA; 14% (n = 7/50) Embospheres; 8% (n = 4/50) Embozenes (p = 0.591). PAE with PVA particles, Embospheres, and Embozenes is equally safe and effective in treating BPH-related lower urinary tract symptoms. This is the first prospective study showing equivalence between the most frequently used embolic agents for prostatic artery embolization. Different particles can be used interchangeably for prostatic artery embolization. The improvements in measured metrics were the same between groups, with no differences in adverse events. The need for prostatic medication and re-intervention rates were the same at 1 and 6 months after embolization.

Outcomes of middle meningeal artery embolization for treating chronic subdural hematoma

The study evaluates chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH) middle meningeal artery (MMA) embolization efficacy and safety. A prospective interventional study was conducted in Viet Duc Hospital from November 2021 to April 2024. All consecutive cSDH MMA embolization patients were included. Clinical and imaging data were collected before and one month after treatment. The study included 31 42-cSDH patients. Of these, 25.8% had hematoma evacuation, 83.9% were treated with surgery and embolization, and 16.1% with embolization alone. 92.9% of procedures used polyvinyl alcohol particles. The success rate was 92.9% and complications 7.1%. Asymptomatic external carotid artery vasospasm and MMA rupture occurred. Functional improvement occurred in 91.7% of patients one month after treatment. Significantly lower mean modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score (0.2±0.7 vs. 1.7±0.9; P=0.000) and higher proportion of patients with ≤2 mRS score (95.8% vs. 74.1%) were observed after treatment. Hematoma thickness decreased significantly (P=0.00) from 21.5±7.9 mm to 8.3±4.1 mm. The midline shift decreased significantly from 7.4±5.0 mm to 0.7±1.2 mm (P=0.00). Just one patient (4.2%) needed surgery. MMA embolization alone or with surgery appears to treat cSDH safely and effectively.

Comparing Deposition Characteristics of Various Embolic Particles Using an In Vitro Prostate Microvasculature Model

PurposeTo compare spatial distributions of radiopaque glass (RG) microspheres, tris-acryl gelatin (TAG) microspheres, and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) nonspherical foam particles within a planar in vitro microvascular model of the hyperplastic hemiprostate. Materials and MethodsA microvascular model simulating hyperplastic hemiprostate was perfused with a water-glycerin mixture. A microcatheter was positioned distal to the model’s prostatic artery origin, and embolic particles (RG, 50 μm, 100 μm, and 150 μm; TAG, 100–300 μm and 300-500 μm; and PVA, 90–180 μm and 180–300 μm) were administered using a syringe pump. Microscopic imaging and subsequent semantic segmentation were performed to quantify particle distributions within the models. Distal penetrations were quantified statistically via modal analysis of the particle distributions. ResultsMaximum distal penetration was observed for RG microspheres of 50 μm, followed by RG microspheres of 100 μm and then TAG microspheres of 100–300 μm and RG microspheres of 150 μm. TAG microspheres of 300–500 μm, PVA particles of 90–180 μm, and PVA particles of 180–300 μm exhibited the lowest distal penetrations. The distal penetration metrics between groups were significantly different (P < .05) except between TAG microspheres of 100–300 μm and RG microspheres of 150 μm and between PVA particles of 90–180 and 180–300 μm. ConclusionsComparing the spatial distributions of embolic particles in an in vitro microvascular model simulating the hyperplastic hemiprostate revealed that noncompressible particles and those with narrower size calibrations and smaller relative diameters exhibited higher degrees of distal packing. The embolization front was less distinct for particles with wider size calibrations, which resulted in smaller, more distal emboli along with larger, more proximal emboli. Both PVA particles and TAG microspheres of 300–500 μm exhibited relatively low overall distal penetration.

Effective Management of Ileocecal Hemorrhage with Super-Selective Arterial Embolization: A Case Study

Background: Acute colonic bleeding, including rectal bleeding and melena, affects approximately 36 per 100,000 people annually, with a higher incidence in the elderly. Effective management requires prompt diagnosis and intervention, especially for severe cases characterized by persistent bleeding and significant decreases in hemoglobin levels. Traditional therapeutic options include pharmacologic therapy, endoscopic coagulation, transcatheter therapy, and surgery. While percutaneous embolization is established for upper GI bleeding, its effectiveness for lower GI bleeding remains debated due to concerns over potential intestinal infarction. Methods: We present a case of a 31-year-old female with a history of severe mitral regurgitation and chronic atrial fibrillation who underwent mitral valve replacement. Post-operatively, she developed black tarry stools indicative of lower GI bleeding. Initial treatments, including proton pump inhibitors, tranexamic acid, and vitamin K, were ineffective. Gastroscopy and colonoscopy showed no active bleeding, but abdominal CT revealed contrast extravasation at the ileocecal junction, likely from the ileocolic artery. Super-selective arterial embolization was performed using a 6 Fr femoral sheath and microcatheter (2.7 Fr) with non-spherical polyvinyl alcohol (nsPVA) particles (355-500 μm) to target the bleeding source. Results: The embolization successfully halted hematochezia with no signs of peritonitis or mesenteric infarction. Post-procedure, the patient was discharged after 4 days with no abdominal pain or readmission for complications. Conclusion: Super-selective arterial embolization is a safe and effective method for managing lower GI bleeding, with no observed intestinal infarction in this case. This approach demonstrates the feasibility of embolization in controlling severe colonic hemorrhage, potentially offering a viable alternative to more invasive procedures while minimizing the risk of bowel ischemia.

Revolutionizing green growth: unleashing the power of PVA and CaHPO4 in crafting a sustainable future through innovative PBS/PVA biodegradable composites for seedling cultivation

ABSTRACT This study introduces an innovative utilizing polybutylene succinate (PBS) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) for seedling bags, enriched with glycerol (G) and calcium hydrogen phosphate (CaHPO4) fertilizer. The investigation examined the impact of PVA (10–50 wt.%) with fixed glycerol ratio of 20 phr, and CaHPO4 content (0–7 phr) on the composite. Notably, higher PVA content led to better dispersion of PVA particles within the PBS/G blend, reducing phase separation compared to lower PVA content. However, increased PVA content resulted in decreased mechanical properties due to incompatibility and phase separation, as well as interference with PBS crystallization. Regarding CaHPO4, the addition of a low fertilizer amount (3 phr) slightly reduced crystallinity (from 40% to 19%) but increased elongation at break (from 2.7% to 3.8%). Conversely, higher CaHPO4 content (5–7 phr) significantly enhanced tensile strength and elongation at break to 5.6 MPa and 6.3%, respectively, without affecting crystallinity. Importantly, CaHPO4 incorporation improved the dispersion of PVA within the PBS matrix. In practical application, PBS/PVA/G/CaHPO4 composites proved suitable for planting seedlings, which thrived in the bags over 42 days. This study underscores the potential of these composite materials for seedling cultivation, while future research may delve into optimizing fertilizer effectiveness in this context.

Bronchial artery embolization using small particles is safe and effective: a single center 12-year experience

Abstract Background Bronchial artery embolization (BAE) using particles is an established treatment for hemoptysis. The use of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) with a particle size of 300 µm or larger is thought to reduce the risk of non-target embolization but may result in more proximal vessel occlusion than is ideal, resulting in a high rate of early recurrent hemorrhage. Objective This study evaluates the safety and efficacy of BAE using PVA particles with a size of less than 300 µm. Methods All patients who underwent BAE between 2010 and 2022 at a tertiary center were included. Demographic data, etiology and volume of hemoptysis, technical and clinical success, procedure-related complications, and follow-up information were collected from patients’ electronic records. 150–250 µm PVA particles were used to commence embolization in all patients with the subsequent use of larger-sized particles in some individuals. The Kaplan–Meier method was used to estimate recurrence and survival rates. Results One hundred forty-four patients underwent 189 embolization procedures between 2010 and 2022 and were followed up for a median of 35 months [IQR 19–89]. 150 µm to 250 µm PVA particles were used as the sole embolic agent in 137 cases. Hemoptysis recurred within 30 days in 7%. The median time to repeat intervention was 144 days [IQR 42–441]. Seventeen out of 144 patients had a pulmonary artery branch pseudoaneurysm. The rate of major complications was 1% with no instances of stroke or spinal artery ischemia. Thirty-day mortality was 2% (4/189). Conclusion BAE using 150–250 µm PVA particles is safe and effective with few complications and low rates of early hemoptysis recurrence. Clinical relevance statement BAE using small particles is likely to improve outcomes, particularly the rate of early recurrence, in patients with hemoptysis, without an increase in procedural complications. Key Points BAE is a safe and effective treatment for patients with hemoptysis. Using small PVA particles in BAE has few complications and low rates of early recurrence. Pulmonary artery pseudoaneurysms should be actively sought in those with hemoptysis undergoing BAE.

Uterine Fibroid Embolization Survey in Canada: Challenges, Opportunities, and Differences in Practices Across the Country.

Purpose: To assess the current practices surrounding Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) in Canada. Methods: An online survey was sent to Canadian Association for Interventional Radiology (CAIR) members. It included questions on symptoms prompting UFE, patient awareness, investigation, UFE settings, the number of UFE procedures, and post-UFE care. The findings were discussed at CAIR's 2023 annual meeting by an expert panel. Results: Out of 792 surveys sent, 87 were filled (11%). Menorrhagia is the most common indication for UFE (87%). Women's awareness of UFE as a treatment option for fibroids is viewed as poor or average by 94% of our survey respondents. Most respondents see patients in clinics (92%) before the procedure and evaluate fibroids with MRI pre-UFE (76%). There is variability in care post-UFE, with 33% of procedures being performed as day surgery while 67% lead to overnight stay. For pain management, intravenous analgesia (including patient-controlled analgesia) is used in 76% (63/83) of cases while 19% (16/83) of respondents mentioned using epidural analgesia. Finally, there is an even split between embolic agent used; non-spherical polyvinyl alcohol (50%) and spherical particles (50%). Conclusion: Respondents believe patients in Canada still have limited awareness of UFE. Interventional radiologists are increasingly involved in the entire patient care trajectory, overseeing pre-and post-procedure care and hospitalizing patients. For pain management after UFE, it is observed that while epidural analgesia has been demonstrated more effective than alternatives, it is not widely used as the primary method.

Role of pre-operative endovascular embolization of a giant sacrococcygeal teratoma in neonate: a case report

BackgroundGiant sacrococcygeal teratomas (SCTs) are at risk of perinatal morbidity and mortality due to their high vascularity. Pre-operative embolization of the feeding arteries, prior to complete surgical resection, may assist in minimizing the intraoperative blood loss by occluding these feeding arteries.Case presentationWe present a case of a highly vascular giant SCT in a neonate, which was successfully embolized through an endovascular approach prior to surgery. The femoral artery approach was chosen, with access established using a Micropuncture introducer as a sheath. Embolization was performed using a combination of microcoils, Gelfoam slurry, and polyvinyl alcohol particles. The patient developed femoral artery spasm post-procedure, which resolved with the application of a glyceryl trinitrate patch.ConclusionsPerforming pre-operative endovascular embolization on a giant sacrococcygeal teratoma presents particular challenges, primarily due to the difficulty in assessing small vessels and the potential complications associated with this procedure. Nevertheless, this technique proves exceptionally valuable in helping the surgeon minimize blood loss during surgery, thereby reducing the risks of morbidity and mortality. Comprehensive planning for the embolization procedure is essential, encompassing the identification of potential vascular access points and alternatives, along with careful selection of the appropriate catheter.

Comparative Analysis of Crosslinking Methods and Their Impact on the Physicochemical Properties of SA/PVA Hydrogels.

Hydrogels, versatile materials used in various applications such as medicine, possess properties crucial for their specific applications, significantly influenced by their preparation methods. This study synthesized 18 different types of hydrogels using sodium alginate (SA) and two molecular weights of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). Crosslinking agents such as aqueous solutions of calcium (Ca2+) and copper (Cu2+) ions and solutions of these ions in boric acid were utilized. The hydrogels were subjected to compression strength tests and drying kinetics analysis. Additionally, six hydrogel variants containing larger PVA particles underwent Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) post-drying. Some samples were lyophilized, and their surface morphology was examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results indicate that the choice of crosslinking method significantly impacts the physicochemical properties of the hydrogels. Crosslinking in solutions with higher concentrations of crosslinking ions enhanced mechanical properties and thermal stability. Conversely, using copper ions instead of calcium resulted in slower drying kinetics and reduced thermal stability. Notably, employing boric acid as a crosslinking agent for hydrogels containing heavier PVA molecules led to considerable improvements in mechanical properties and thermal stability.

Super-Selective Trans-Catheter Arterial Embolization (TAE) of the Vesical Arteries in the Management of Intractable Hematuria Secondary to Advanced Bladder and Prostate Cancers.

This article was previously presented as an abstract at the 18th UAA Congress, Seoul, October 15-17, 2020, and the abstract was published in The International Journal of Urology. It was also presented as an e-posterat the 2021 BAUS Annual Meeting on June 22, 2021. Introduction In frail patients intractable hematuria secondary to advanced pelvic malignancies is a clinical challenge. Super-selective TAE of the vesical arteries is a suitable minimally invasive option. We present our experience in this patient cohort. Patients and methods All patients who underwent TAE from January 2014 to December 2019 were included. Super-selective TAE of the superior and inferior vesical arteries was done using 300-500µ polyvinyl alcohol(PVA) particles. Demographic data, cancer stage, associated urinary system obstruction, pre-embolization palliative treatment, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy were recorded. Technical and clinical success, time to cessation of hematuria, recurrence of hematuria, and complications were recorded. Data are presented as mean ± standard deviation, and statistical significance is set at p<0.05. Results From 2014 to 2019, seven patients underwent eight procedures. The average patient's age was 60.6±10.3 years. All presented with gross hematuria, six due to locally advanced and/or metastatic bladder cancer, and one due to prostate cancer. The average time of hematuria clearance was 60 hours. The average hemoglobin levels at the time of the procedure, one month, and six months post-embolization were 9.6±1.7 g/dL, 10.6±1.5 g/dL (p<0.05), and 9.6±0.9 g/dL, respectively (p>0.05). Packed red blood cell (PRBC) requirements decreased from 7±2 units to 5±3units after the procedure (p >0.05). The patients were followed up for an average of 13.6 months and four had a recurrence at an average of four months post-embolization. Conclusion Super-selective TAE is an effective palliative method in controlling intractable hematuria. The risks of major surgery and anesthesia are omitted, and the procedure can be repeated as needed. Furthermore, post-embolization complications, using this technique, are minor and manageable.

Middle meningeal artery embolization for the treatment of unilateral large chronic subdural hematoma patients with significant midline shift: A single-center experience.

The amount of midline shift (MLS) considered safe for middle meningeal artery embolization (MMAE) in patients with chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) has not been established. Whether MMAE could be used as upfront treatment for unilateral large CSDH patients with significant MLS (>1 cm) has not been reported. To investigate the efficacy and safety of MMAE in unilateral large CSDH patients with MLS > 1 cm. Eleven carefully selected CSDH patients with mild or moderate symptoms and significant MLS > 1 cm from 1 May 2021 to 31 August 2022 were included in the study. All patients were treated with MMAE using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) particles. Outcomes were assessed clinically and with interval imaging studies at follow-up. All 19 MMAs (unilateral embolization in three patients and bilateral embolization in eight patients) were successfully embolized. All 11 patients were followed for subsequent months, and there was no recurrence and enlargement of CSDH. Procedural adverse events, mortality, or complications were not observed. The average time to achieve a 50% reduction in MLS was approximately four weeks, while it took approximately eight weeks to achieve a 50% reduction in maximal volume. All 11 patients showed improvement in their neurological symptoms at three days post-operation, including four hemiplegic patients. MMAE may demonstrate safety in carefully selected CSDH patients with significant midline shift (MLS > 1 cm), particularly in those who are not suitable for surgery, thus providing a potential alternative approach.

Genicular artery embolization for the treatment of knee pain secondary to mild to severe knee osteoarthritis: One year clinical outcomes

ObjectiveTo evaluate the safety and efficacy of genicular artery embolization (GAE) in patients with mild-to-severe knee osteoarthritis up to 12 months after GAE. Materials & methodsThis prospective single-center study included patients who had knee osteoarthritis for >1 year with moderate-to-severe pain after failed conservative treatment for >6 months. Baseline imaging features were evaluated to determine Kellgren-Lawrence (KL) grade and magnetic resonance imaging (MOAKS) scores. GAE was performed using 150–350 μm embolic polyvinyl alcohol particles. The visual analog scale (VAS) and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scores were used to evaluate knee pain, stiffness, and function at baseline and follow-up. The primary endpoints were changes in VAS and WOMAC scores at 12 months. ResultsThirty-three patients (n = 37 knees) aged 66.6 ± 8.7 years were enrolled. The patients were categorized into two groups: mild-to-moderate osteoarthritis (n = 28, KL grades 2–3) and severe osteoarthritis (n = 9, KL grade 4). GAE was successfully performed in all patients, with no major adverse events. Three to six branches of the genicular artery were embolized. The mean VAS and WOMAC scores in the mild-to-moderate group significantly decreased (6.6 at baseline vs. 3.0 at 12 months and 49.4 vs. 27.4, respectively, all P < 0.001). The mean VAS and WOMAC scores in the severe group significantly decreased at 12 months (7.3 vs. 4.4 and 58.1 vs. 40.6, respectively, all P < 0.001). ConclusionGAE is a well-tolerated and effective treatment that significantly improves pain symptoms and function in patients with mild-to-severe knee osteoarthritis.

Evaluation of The Relationship Between the Selected Particle Size and Procedure Success and Complications in Bronchial Artery Embolisation

Objective: Hemoptysis refers to the discharge of blood, which originates from the lungs or bronchial system through the mouth. This study aimed to examine the importance of the particle size used in patients undergoing bronchial artery embolisation (BAE) regarding procedure success and complications.&#x0D; Materials and Methods: Data from patients who underwent BAE using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) particles were collected retrospectively. Hemoptysis etiology and localisation, lesion type, the size of the embolising agent used, and postoperative complications were recorded. Thirty-day follow-up results were evaluated.&#x0D; Results: Fifty-six patients were included in the study. The size of the PVA particles used was 300-500 microns in 30 patients (53.6%) and 500-700 microns in 26 patients (46.4%). Bleeding completely stopped in 92.9% of the cases within 30 days after the procedure. Procedure success or complications did not significantly differ between the patient groups in which 300-500 micron and 500-700 micron particles were used during BAE.&#x0D; Conclusion: BAE is a safe, effective, and minimally invasive method that can be performed repeatedly to treat hemoptysis. This study showed that regardless of size, PVA particles were effective and safe agents that could be used during this procedure.

Magnetic-field induced shape memory hydrogels for deformable actuators.

Magnetic hydrogel actuators exhibit promising applications in the fields of soft robotics, bioactuators, and flexible sensors owing to their inherent advantages such as remote control capability, untethered deformation and motion control, as well as easily manipulable behavior. However, it is still a challenge for magnetic hydrogels to achieve adjustable stiffness and shape fixation under magnetic field actuation deformation. Herein, a simple and effective approach is proposed for the design of magnetic shape memory hydrogels to accomplish this objective. The magnetic shape memory hydrogels, consisting of methacrylamide, methacrylic acid, polyvinyl alcohol and Fe3O4 magnetic particles, which crosslinked by hydrogen bonds, are facilely prepared via one-pot polymerization. The dynamic nature of noncovalent bonds offers the magnetic hydrogels with excellent mechanical properties, precisely controlled stiffness, and effective shape fixation. The presence of Fe3O4 particles renders the hydrogels soft when subjected to an alternating current field, facilitating their deformation under the influence of an actuation magnetic field. After the elimination of the alternating current magnetic field, the hydrogels stiffen and attain a fixed actuated shape in the absence of any external magnetic field. Moreover, this remarkable magnetic shape memory hydrogel is effectively employed as an underwater soft gripper for lifting heavy objects. This work provides a novel strategy for fabricating magnetic hydrogels with non-contact reversible actuation deformation, tunable stiffness and shape locking.

The determination of underivatized chlormequat, fosetyl-aluminium and phosphonic acid residues in maize and soybean by LC-MS/MS.

In this study, a simple, rapid and sensitive method was developed for the simultaneous determination of chlormequat, fosetyl-aluminium and phosphonic acid residues in maize and soybean using liquid chromatography-triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Analytes were extracted with acetic acid solution, purified on an HLB column, and then filtered through a 0.2 μm hydrophilic microporous filter membrane. They were then separated on an IC column using a separation phase consisting of polyvinyl alcohol particles with quaternary ammonium groups. The mobile phase optimised with water was denoted as mobile phase A and that optimised with 200 mmol L-1 ammonium bicarbonate solution containing 0.05% ammonium hydroxide was denoted as mobile phase B. The residues were detected by tandem mass spectrometry with negative electrospray ionization in a multi-reaction monitoring mode. The correlation coefficient (R ≥ 0.997) showed good linear regressions for all analytes in water as well as in maize and soybean matrices with a wide dynamic range of 0.001 to 0.5 mg L-1 for calibration. The mean recoveries (RSDs) of the analytes were in the range 85.0-106.4% (5.5-14.9%), 81.7-109.5% (2.7-11.0%) and 74.7-104.4% (2.9-6.1%) at three concentration levels (0.05, 0.1 and 1 mg kg-1) for the interday test (n = 15). The limit of quantification (LOQ) and detection (LOD) of the method for different matrices were 0.01 and 0.003 mg kg-1, respectively. In conclusion, the established analytical approach has high sensitivity and good accuracy and precision and is suitable for monitoring chlormequat, fosetyl-aluminium and phosphonic acid residues in maize and soybean.

Liquid Metal‐Based High‐Density Interconnect Technology for Stretchable Printed Circuits

AbstractHigh‐density interconnect (HDI) technology for liquid metal (LM)‐based stretchable printed circuit boards is crucial for expanding their applicability. HDI technology provides high‐resolution multilayer circuits with a high density of components, as required for next generation of neuroprobes and ultrasonic and sensor arrays. This study presents a HDI technique utilizing laser engraved micro grooves in silicone with a protective lift‐off mask of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and subsequent microscale LM particle spray deposition. This approach achieves high‐resolution LM patterns and enables multilayer connectivity and high‐density integration of components simultaneously, that is, realizing HDI technology. It is demonstrated using a stretchable 0201 LED display with a density of six leads per mm2 and a cochlear implant (CI) electrode array. The demonstrated manufacturing of the CI has the potential to enable fully automated printed circuit board manufacturing of such implants with increased precision and throughput. Implants in guinea pigs show that the CI is capable of activating the auditory neuron with electrical auditory brainstem response (eABR) and electrical compound action potential (eCAP) of high quality. Moreover, the U‐shaped cross section of the LM interconnects provides a higher mechanical shock resistance of the circuit than that of normal rectangular cross sections.

Comparing iodized oil with polyvinyl alcohol for portal vein embolization in promoting liver remnant increase before partial hepatectomy

BackgroundTo compare the efficacy and safety of iodized oil versus polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) particles in portal vein embolization (PVE) before partial hepatectomy. MethodsFrom October 2016 to December 2021, 86 patients who planned to undergo hepatectomy after PVE were enrolled, including 61 patients post-PVE with PVA particles + coils and 25 patients post-PVE with iodized oil + coils. All patients underwent CT examination before and 2–3 weeks after PVE to evaluate the future liver remnant (FLR). The intercohort comparison included the degree of liver volume growth, changes in laboratory data, and adverse events. ResultsThere was no significant difference in the resection rate between the iodized oil group and the PVA particle group (68 % vs. 70 %, p = 0.822). In terms of the degree of hypertrophy (9.52 % ± 13.47 vs. 4.03 % ± 10.55, p = 0.047) and kinetic growth rate (4.07 % ± 5.4 vs. 1.55 % ± 4.63, p = 0.032), the iodized oil group was superior to the PVA group. The PVE operation time in the PVA particle group was shorter than that in the iodized oil group (121. 72 min ± 34.45 vs. 156. 2 min ± 71.58, p = 0.029). There was no significant difference in the degree of hypertrophy between the high bilirubin group and the control group (5.32 % ± 9.21 vs. 6.1 % ± 14.79, p = 0.764). Only 1 patient had a major complication. ConclusionsCompared with PVA particles, iodized oil PVE can significantly increase liver volume and the degree of hypertrophy without any significant difference in safety.

Middle meningeal artery embolization without surgical evacuation for chronic subdural hematoma: a single-center experience of 209 cases.

Middle meningeal artery (MMA) embolization is a minimally invasive treatment option for new and recurrent chronic subdural hematomas (cSDH). To examine the safety and efficacy profile of MMA embolization without surgical evacuation for cSDH patients. A single-center retrospective study of patients with cSDHs treated by MMA embolization was undertaken. Patient demographics, hematoma characteristics, procedural details, and clinical and radiological outcomes were collected. The primary outcome was the need for retreatment, and the secondary outcomes were at least a 50% reduction in the maximum width of cSDH on the last CT imaging, complications, and an improvement in the modified Rankin scale (mRS) score. All results were presented as descriptive statistics. A total of 209 MMA embolizations were successfully performed on 144 patients. Polyvinyl alcohol particles were the primary embolization agent in all procedures. Of the total of 206 cSDH, the median maximum width at pre-intervention and last follow-up were 12 and 3 mm, respectively, and the median reduction percentage was 77.5%, with a >50% improvement observed in 72.8% at the last follow-up imaging. A total of 13.8% of patients needed retreatment for recurrent, refractory, or symptomatic hematomas after embolization. The mRS score improved in 71 (49.3%) patients. Of 144 patients, 4 (2.8%) experienced complications related to the procedure, and 12 (8.4%) died during follow-up due to causes unrelated to the MMA embolization procedures. This study supports the fact that MMA embolization without surgical evacuation is a safe and effective minimally invasive option for the treatment of cSDHs.

Neuroendovascular Surgery Applications in Craniocervical Trauma.

Cerebrovascular injuries resulting from blunt or penetrating trauma to the head and neck often lead to local hemorrhage and stroke. These injuries present with a wide range of manifestations, including carotid or vertebral artery dissection, pseudoaneurysm, occlusion, transection, arteriovenous fistula, carotid-cavernous fistula, epistaxis, venous sinus thrombosis, and subdural hematoma. A selective review of the literature from 1989 to 2023 was conducted to explore various neuroendovascular surgical techniques for craniocervical trauma. A PubMed search was performed using these terms: endovascular, trauma, dissection, blunt cerebrovascular injury, pseudoaneurysm, occlusion, transection, vasospasm, carotid-cavernous fistula, arteriovenous fistula, epistaxis, cerebral venous sinus thrombosis, subdural hematoma, and middle meningeal artery embolization. An increasing array of neuroendovascular procedures are currently available to treat these traumatic injuries. Coils, liquid embolics (onyx or n-butyl cyanoacrylate), and polyvinyl alcohol particles can be used to embolize lesions, while stents, mechanical thrombectomy employing stent-retrievers or aspiration catheters, and balloon occlusion tests and super selective angiography offer additional treatment options based on the specific case. Neuroendovascular techniques prove valuable when surgical options are limited, although comparative data with surgical techniques in trauma cases is limited. Further research is needed to assess the efficacy and outcomes associated with these interventions.