Abstract: The present invention relates to a solid, ingestible composition comprising: a) an alginate; b) a bicarbonate; and c) a carbonate wherein the composition is in the form of a chewable core, a process for preparing said composition, and its use in the treatment of reflux oesophagitis, gastritis, dyspepsia or peptic ulceration or for use as a sustained releasing or targeted delivery composition.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a solid, ingestible composition comprising a) an alginate; b) a bicarbonate; and c) a carbonate wherein the composition is in the form of a chewable core, a process for preparing said composition, and its use in the treatment of reflux oesophagitis, gastritis, dyspepsia or peptic ulceration or for use as a sustained releasing or targeted delivery composition.

Abstract: Kits, applicators and methods for treatment of a surface involve sequential application to a surface of a hydrogel precursor and a crosslinking component to form a removable hydrogel patch on the surface followed by removal of the patch. The method is suitable for removal of a stain from a surface.

Abstract: A liquid composition for adherence to a bodily surface, notably to a bodily surface, especially a mucosal surface, comprises water-swellable polymer particles suspended in a water-miscible liquid diluent, wherein the liquid diluent is substantially free of water or includes an amount of water insufficient to fully swell the polymer particles. On admixture with water the composition thickens and becomes more adherent to surfaces. Thus the composition may be easy to administer but may become thick and adherent at the treatment site.

Abstract: A composition comprises water, a first anionic polymer and a second anionic polymer. The first anionic polymer may be xanthan. The second anionic polymer may be selected from an alginate, a carboxymethylcellulose, an acrylate polymer, a carrageenan and a pectin. The composition is such that diluting it with water increases its viscosity.

Abstract: In the formation of capsules having a polyanionic polysaccharide core and a polycationic polysaccharide membrane layer, improved binding of the polycationic polysaccharide is achieved by including polyvalent ions, especially calcium ions, at the membrane forming step.

Abstract: A workpiece is supported by work support means (40; 40'; 40"; 44'; 142, 144) for movement in a first direction by co-operating workpiece clamping and feeding means (46; 142, 144), both said means being supported on a carriage (16) for movement in a second direction normal to the first to move a workpiece relative to a sewing machine head. Both of said means are arranged on both sides of an elongated aperture (42) extending in the second direction in alignment with a needle penetration point (N). Stepping motors (24; 60) are provided for moving the carriage (16) and operating the workpiece clamping and feeding means (46; 142, 144) under programmed control. A camera (70) is also provided aligned with the aperture 42, for detecting the peripheral outline of a workpiece fed therebeneath.