Abstract: Macroparticulates may be formed through at least partial self-assembly by reacting an epoxide-containing (meth)acrylic polymer or copolymer with a compound bearing a nitrogen nucleophile. An internal cavity may be formed when functionalizing the (meth)acrylic polymer or copolymer in the presence of a hindered amine base. When appropriately functionalized, the macroparticulates may be used to sequester a contaminant from a substance in need of contaminant remediation, such as produced water or flowback water from a wellbore job site. Reclaimed water obtained from the macroparticulates may be utilized to form a treatment fluid. The macroparticulates may be located within a continuous flow line, particularly within a removable cartridge, to promote removal of at least one contaminant from a substance in need of contaminant remediation.

Abstract: The hemostatic surgical instrument comprises a scalpel provided at its anterior end with an upwardly directed surgical blade. A unique guidance means, or plow-like structure, is connected to the anterior end of the scalpel, immediately beneath the surgical blade. The plow-like structure allows the scalpel to be positioned at an appropriate depth and location with respect to individual tissue layers during formation of an incision. The instrument further comprises a stapling device with curved edges that may be used in conjunction with the scalpel to provide for placement of rows of surgical staples on either side of an incision as the incision is formed, thereby minimizing bleeding. The stapling device preferably is composed of wheels pivotally connected with the scalpel, the wheels being rollable along the surface of the tissue and capable of sequentially ejecting staples on either side of an incision as the incision is formed by the scalpel.