Abstract: An entirely aqueous method for concentrating water soluble polysaccharides having molecular weights of at least about 50 kDa. The method comprises evaporating a water soluble polysaccharide-containing solution until surface film formation occurs, and harvesting the resulting film which is enriched in the polysaccharide. The polysaccharide may be of plant or animal origin, and includes polysaccharides such as guar gum, xanthan gum and pectin.

Abstract: Menstrual discharge is coagulated by contacting with one or more lectins capable of agglutinating blood with the menstrual flow to coagulate the blood at least partially, thereby rendering it easier to control and collect. The lectins may be applied either alone, in neat or formulated form, or in conjunction with an intravaginal or extravaginal device. Toxic shock syndrome is prevented by administering one or more lectins capable of diminishing the infective capability of the microorganism causing toxic shock.

Abstract: An entirely aqueous method for concentrating beta-glucan from a beta-glucan source, such as milled cereal bran, grain or distiller's dried grain. The method comprises providing an alkaline aqueous extract of a beta-glucan source; acidifying or neutralizing the extract and heating the extract to between about 60° C. and 100° C.; cooling the extract, whereby a flocculate is formed; acidifying the cooled extract if the extract was neutralized; and removing the flocculate from the aqueous solution to form an intermediate solution. The intermediate solution may be subjected to ultrafiltration for further purification of beta-glucan, or may be evaporated, resulting in formation of a solid film enriched in beta-glucan. Beta-glucan has cholesterol-lowering properties and is a topical immunostimulant.

Abstract: Diseases and disorders of dermal tissue such as the skin, hair and nails are treated or prevented by administering one or more lectins, capable of binding to the surface of pathogenic microorganisms inhabiting the hair, skin, and nails, or of binding to the superficial tissues that comprise hair, skin, and nails. The lectins may be administered topically or subcutaneously to a patient infected with pathogenic microorganisms or in danger of being exposed to such pathogens. Lectins that stimulate cell mitosis may also be administered to accelerate wound healing and restore the appearance of age-wrinkled skin. Lectins that coagulate blood can be administered to assist in stopping bleeding from skin lesions. The lectins may be applied to the skin in a pharmceutically acceptable vehicle.

Abstract: An entirely aqueous method for concentrating beta-glucan from a beta-glucan source, such as milled cereal bran, grain or distiller's dried grain. The method comprises providing an alkaline aqueous extract of a beta-glucan source; acidifying or neutralizing the extract and heating the extract to between about 60° C. and 100° C.; cooling the extract, whereby a flocculate is formed; acidifing the cooled extract if the extract was neutralized; and removing the flocculate from the aqueous solution to form an intermediate solution. The intermediate solution may be subjected to ultrafiltration for further purification of beta-glucan, or may be evaporated, resulting in formation of a solid film enriched in beta-glucan. Beta-glucan has cholesterol-lowering properties and is a topical immunostimulant.

Abstract: Bitter or otherwise undesirable compounds can be removed from beverages such as tea, coffee or wine by using a natural proteinaceous oat-derived material. This material will also remove noxious compounds such as nicotine from the smoke stream of lighted tobacco products. The liquid or gas is contacted with the material, resulting in the sequestration of the undesirable compounds within the pores of the proteinaceous material.

Abstract: A method and composition for dispersing oil. Distiller's dried grain is applied to an oil spill or to an animal or object contacted with oil. The distiller's dried grain sorbs and disperses the oil, allowing dispersal of the oil in open water or removal of the oil from the animal or object.

Abstract: A process to prepare oat oil compositions with beneficial dermatological properties is disclosed. Formulations incorporating the oat oil compositions have antioxidant and other dermatologically beneficial properties. The compositions, either alone or in cosmetic formulations including lipid emulsions, inhibit ultraviolet irradiation-induced lipid peroxidation. The methods have applications in the cosmetic industry for inhibiting ultraviolet irradiation-induced skin damage and other beneficial dermatological properties. The formulations of the invention also are potent antioxidants.

Abstract: A proteinaceous emulsion and method for making a proteinaceous emulsion comprising a lipophilic phase, an aqueous phase and a protein emulsifier; which is capable of forming a thin film and has the capability of carrying active ingredients contained in either or both the aqueous phase and the lipophilic phase of the emulsion.

Abstract: A vaginal discharge collection device is formed of an elastomeric rim and a flexible film reservoir. The rim may have a generally rectangular cross section and forms a collection space for collecting vaginal discharge. The reservoir may be collapsible so as to be substantially enclosed within the rim when the device is being used. Advantageously, the rim and the reservoir are arranged such that compressing diametrically opposed portions of the rim toward each other causes a leading portion of the rim to dip downwardly to facilitate insertion of the device. The device is ergonomically constructed so as to be convenient to use, comfortable to wear internally, and reliable. A system for reliably, comfortably and conveniently introducing agents, including drugs and other substances, into the vaginal canal is also disclosed.

Abstract: Slow release biocidal generators having a greater degree of flexibility with regard to generator size and release of biocide therefrom comprise a volatile liquid beta-halovinyl phosphate biocide dispersed in a blend of a block polymer and a plasticized vinyl chloride resin. The generators are insecticidally active.