Abstract: A method for producing a part in the form of a solid block from a natural material in particulate form containing scleroproteins. A phase of heating the natural material, under compression at a pressure greater than or equal to 30 MPa, to a temperature greater than or equal to the denaturation temperature of the scleroproteins contained in the material. A phase of cooling the material thus obtained to a temperature less than 100° C., while maintaining the compression during at least a part of the cooling phase.

Abstract: A disposable eggshell eco-friendly material and manufacturing method are disclosed. The disposable eggshell eco-friendly material, for volume ratio, includes 50%-80% of calcined eggshell powder, 10%-48% of biodegradable polymer, 1%-5% of natural degradation agent, and 1%-5% of natural binding agent, which are subjected to a mixing and stirring step according to such ratios, and then subjected to a pelletizing step to be first prepared as a plurality of disposable eggshell eco-friendly material pellets, and the disposable eggshell eco-friendly material pellets being then subjected to a shaping and forming step by means of one of film blowing, extruding, vacuum forming, bottle blowing, injecting, and drawing, to obtain a disposable eggshell eco-friendly material product that is disposed of after one time of use.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed toward an electrodeposition-based dynamic glass element comprising an electrolyte that includes an aqueous solvent and an additive, wherein the electrolyte is stable over a temperature range that is greater than the stable temperature range of the aqueous solvent alone. In some embodiments, the freezing point of the electrolyte is lowered by its inclusion of the additive. Additives suitable for use in accordance with the present disclosure include alcohols, metal salts, sugars, cryoprotectants, and the like. In some cases, the freezing point of the aqueous-solvent-based electrolyte is lowered from 0° C. to ?40° C. by virtue of the inclusion of the additive. In some cases, the maximum stable temperature of the electrolyte is increased from 100° C. to 110° C. by virtue of the inclusion of the additive.

Abstract: The present invention provides a detection device comprises a testing element and a transparent area, wherein the testing element comprises a detection area which is configured to detect a presence of an analyte in a liquid sample; the transparent area is configured to read the test result on the detection area through the transparent area; a part of the transparent area contacts a part of the detection area, or the detection area and the transparent area are arranged in one sealed space, thus to make the air in the sealed space not exchange with the air outside the sealed space; the scheme can reduce the mist to ensure the test result is displayed clearly.

Abstract: A method for making a silk protein film includes providing an aqueous solution of a silk protein, and annealing a mixture including the aqueous solution of the silk protein and a water-soluble polyhydroxy compound that is present in an amount ranging from 20 wt % to 60 wt % based on a total amount of the silk protein and the water-soluble polyhydroxy compound at an annealing temperature that is higher than 50° C. and lower than 180° C. and under a relative humidity of not higher than 30%, so as to form the silk protein film.

Abstract: The present invention includes compositions, methods, and methods of making and using a polymer-encased nanodisc comprising: one or more integral membrane proteins in a lipid layer; and a polymer comprising zwitterionic styrene-maleic acid derivative repeating units that carry zero or nearly zero negative charge, and the polymer-encased nanodiscs.

Abstract: The present invention includes compositions, methods, and methods of making and using a polymer-encased nanodisc comprising: one or more integral membrane proteins in a lipid layer; and a polymer comprising zwitterionic styrene-maleic acid derivative repeating units that carry zero or nearly zero negative charge, and the polymer-encased nanodiscs.

Abstract: A powder material for three-dimensional modeling includes a base particle and a resin including a first water soluble resin and a second water soluble resin, wherein a first aqueous solution of the first water soluble resin having a concentration of two percent by mass has a thermally reversible sol-gel phase transition and is gelated at temperatures higher than a first phase transition temperature of the first aqueous solution.

Abstract: The present invention provides a biomimetic polymer for stabilizing wellbore, a method for preparation of the biomimetic polymer, and a drilling fluid. The polymer contains carboxymethyl chitosan that serves as a backbone and dopamine-derived groups grafted on the backbone. The polymer provided in the present invention can improve the strength of shale in the wellbore, seal the shale pores and reduce the filter loss of drilling fluid, and thereby attains an effect of stabilizing the wellbore in shale formation in drilling process.

Abstract: A functionalized silica product includes particles of a hydrophobated silica having a thin coating of an emulsion polymer. A ratio of the hydrophobated silica to the emulsion polymer is from about 4/1 to about 50/1. The functionalized silica product is in the form of a friable crumb or a powder that may be mixed into a elastomer formulation for a rubber article, such as a tire component.

Abstract: Bioplastics including an oligosaccharide, a plasticizer, and an additive are described. Such bioplastics display advantageous attributes including tensile strength that can be tailored for particular uses. Processes for obtaining such bioplastics are also described.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to polymeric materials comprising biodegradable, dioxanone-based copolymers and implantable devices (e.g., drug-delivery stents) formed of such materials. The polymeric materials can also contain at least one additional biocompatible moiety, at least one non-fouling moiety, at least one biobeneficial material, at least one bioactive agent, or a combination thereof. The polymeric materials are designed to improve the mechanical, physical and biological properties of implantable devices formed thereof.

Abstract: Compositions of P4HB (poly-4-hydroxybutyrate) and copolymers thereof, have been developed for pultrusion, as well as processes to produce profiles from these compositions by pultrusion. These pultrusion processes provide profiles without causing structural damage to the surface of the profile. The profiles may be used in medical applications. These compositions include P4HB, and copolymers thereof, having intrinsic viscosities less than 3.2 dl/g but greater than 0.8 dl/g. The profile may be formed using conditions such as: pull rate of 0.1 to 100 mm/min, die temperature of up to 95° C., rod stock temperature up to 95° C., draw ratio of up to 100×, pulling force of greater than 10 MPa, and clamping pressure at least 10% higher than the pulling force. Preferably, the profile is formed by pulling the rod stock through a series of dies placed at intervals with the hole sizes decreasing in diameter by 0.1 to 10 mm.

Abstract: Biomaterials that support cell attachment and growth are provided. In one aspect, biomaterials are provided comprising a first polymer matrix comprising reactive amino moieties and a second polymer matrix that interpenetrates with the first polymer matrix, where the second polymer matrix comprises a poly(alkylene oxide) comprising two or more alkylene oxide oligomers joined by gamma-thioether carbonyl linkages. In another aspect, biomaterials are provided comprising at least one biopolymer comprising amino groups, thiol groups, and bifunctional modifiers connecting at least some of the amino groups to at least some of the thiol groups; and at least one poly(alkylene oxide) cross-linked to at least two thiol groups of the biopolymer. The biomaterials may further comprise a pharmacologically active agent or cells. Methods of administering such biomaterials to a patient in need thereof are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to thermoplastic products. In particular, the present invention relates to systems and methods for providing a thermoplastic product that includes one or more recycled materials. In some non-limiting implementations, the recycled materials are selected from eggshells, slag, solid output from an incinerator, and/or asphalt shingles. In some cases, the recycled materials comprise between about 0.1% and about 95%, by weight, of the thermoplastic product. In some cases, the recycled materials have a particle size between about one inch and about 300 mesh. Other implementations are also described.

Abstract: A rubber composition includes an elastomer having an elongation at break (Eb) of about 50% or more according to ASTM-D 412 at 25° C., a water-insoluble keratin, and a reinforcing filler. A tire component including the composition and a method for making the composition are also disclosed.

Abstract: Disclosed is a process for preparing proteinaceous materials. The process comprises solubilising fibrous protein by contacting it with an alkaline solution, ageing the resulting mixture to form a homogenous solution, and coagulating the resulting solution to form the proteinaceous material. The proteinaceous materials may be produced as, for example, fibres, films, sheets, coatings, particles, shapes, foams or composites.

Abstract: A process for manufacturing eggshell powder for use in the production of bio-based products is provided. The process involves exposing a quantity of eggshell to high air speed at room temperatures to pulverize the eggshell and separate the eggshell component from the inner membrane component. Thus, the process avoids the use of high temperatures and other harsh chemical treatments to remove the inner membrane from the eggshell thereby resulting in an eggshell material that retains the original lipid-protein structure of the native eggshell from which the powder derives. Accordingly, an eggshell powder composition is provided that is substantially free of inner membrane material and possesses a lipid-protein structure substantially similar to that of the eggshell from which the powder is derived. A polymer composite composition comprising an eggshell component and a polymer component is also provided.

Abstract: A rubber composition includes an elastomer having an elongation at break (Eb) of about 50% or more according to ASTM-D 412 at 25° C., a water-insoluble keratin, and a reinforcing filler. A tire component including the composition and a method for making the composition are also disclosed.

Abstract: An elastomeric article, such as a glove or a condom, is coated with a compound containing silicone, collagen and allantoin.

Abstract: A biocompatible insulin delivery device is provided comprising an insulin reservoir sealed with a glucose-responsive plug or membrane. The plug functions to release insulin from the reservoir in response to a hyperglycemic glucose concentration and to prevent insulin release from the reservoir in response to hypoglycemic glucose concentration. In one embodiment, the plug is made of a biocompatible polymeric matrix comprising an inorganic component, a stimulus-responsive component and a catalytic component.

Abstract: A blowable insulation material comprising natural fibers and short cut synthetic fibers or fiber balls. The natural fibers and short cut synthetic fibers or fiber balls are individually treated with a water repellent to impart water repellency to the fibers, and later aerodynamically blended together. The water repellent fibers constitute a part or most of the blowable insulation material, thus enhancing the durability of the structure as well as water repellency, which may be advantageous during washing or laundering.

Abstract: The present invention concerns stable aqueous protein dispersions comprising in an aqueous phase at least one self-assembling protein in dispersed form and also at least one specific dispersant for the self-assembling protein; processes for producing such stable aqueous dispersions; processes for electrospinning self-assembling proteins using such stable aqueous dispersions; processes for producing fibrous sheet bodies or fibers from such aqueous dispersions; the use of such aqueous dispersions for coating surfaces; the use of the materials produced by electrospinning in the manufacture of medical devices, hygiene articles and textiles; and also fibrous or fibrous sheet bodies produced by an electrospinning process of the present invention.

Abstract: Components of an unmanned undersea vehicle are inspired by jellyfish that uses its flexible body and tilt sensing to achieve efficient swimming and turning. A tilt sensor, based on a statocyst, has a metal ball in a chamber lined with resistors. The tilt is sensed in accordance with which resistors the ball contacts. A composition of polyvinyl alcohol hydrogel with ferritin particles dispersed therein mimics the qualities of a jellyfish's mesoglea.

Abstract: An indicator is useful for detecting pressure points on a denture. The indicator is made of a composition that easily adheres to oral mucosa, has a proper viscosity in an oral cavity environment, can be properly spread between an oral mucosa surface and a denture base, and easily specifies an affected part. The composition includes a fatty acid ester having a melting point of 30 to 50° C., a water-soluble high polymer, and a metal oxide. Preferably, the fatty acid is 40 to 95% by weight of the composition, the water-soluble high polymer is 1 to 59% by weight of the composition, and the metal oxide is 0.1 to 50% by weight of the composition.

Abstract: Hydroxypolyamides, hydroxypolyamide products, and post-hydroxypolyamides are disclosed as gel forming agents. Hydroxypolyamides and post-hydroxypolyamides are prepared from known methods. Hydroxypolyamide products are produced from a modified polymerization procedure which utilizes strong base for deprotonation of ammonium salts from the esterification of stoichiometrically equivalent polyacid:polyamine salts. The hydroxypolyamide products are capable of gel formation at lower concentrations than hydroxypolyamides and post-hydroxypolyamides from the known methods of preparation, and are therefore superior gel forming agents.

Abstract: A rubber composition includes an elastomer having an elongation at break (Eb) of about 50% or more according to ASTM-D 412 at 25° C., a water-insoluble keratin, and a reinforcing filler. A tire component including the composition and a method for making the composition are also disclosed.

Abstract: Protein-polymer compositions and processes for their production are provided where the compositions have improved resistance to ultraviolet light induced weathering and associated loss of enzyme activity. The incorporation of both a sterically hindered amine and an ultraviolet light absorber at a concentration of at least 5% by weight produces a curable or cured composition with UV stabilized enzyme activity that can be used as a bioactive coating with improved stain removal properties.

Abstract: The present invention relates to polymeric materials including a glycosaminoglycan networked with a polyolefin-containing polymer. The present invention also relates to hydrogels containing the polymeric materials. The present invention further relates to methods of synthesizing the polymeric materials and hydrogels of the present invention.

Abstract: The present invention relates to biodegradable aliphatic-aromatic polyesters obtained from aliphatic dicarboxylic acids, polyfunctional aromatic acids and diols, wherein the polyfunctional aromatic acids are constituted by mixtures of acids of renewable and synthetic origin.

Abstract: The present invention provides polymer composites reinforced with high aspect ratio reinforcing fillers selected from calcium phosphate nanofibers, nanoplates, submicron fibers, submicron plates, and combinations thereof. The mechanical and biological properties of the inventive composites are enhanced significantly over current polymer composites and may be employed in various biomedical applications, such as dental restorations.

Abstract: Crosslinkable compositions containing a crosslinkable organosilicon compound; a silica filler; a silicate or halogen analog thereof, a non-silicate resin-forming monomer; and a solid blowing agent containing intercalated liquid or liquid of crystallization, produce uniform foams of good pore structure, with firm adhesion to substrates, with water repellency and water vapor permeability, and with high elongation and low compression set, and are suitable for use in applications where foamed chloroprene rubber has been used, and in other applications as well.

Abstract: The present invention relates to improved covalent coupling of two or more entities such as biomolecules, polymer compositions, organic/inorganic molecules/materials, and the like, including their combinations, through one or more novel reactive groups attached to linker groups of 2-1000 atoms length. The present invention also contemplates the use of bifunctional bridge molecules to link two or more entities, wherein the functional groups of the bridge molecules are the novel reactive groups of the present invention.

Abstract: In accordance with at least certain embodiments of the present invention, a novel concept of utilizing PIMS minerals as a filler component within a microporous lead-acid battery separator is provided. In accordance with more particular embodiments or examples, the PIMS mineral (preferably fish meal, a bio-mineral) is provided as at least a partial substitution for the silica filler component in a silica filled lead acid battery separator (preferably a polyethylene/silica separator formulation). In accordance with at least selected embodiments, the present invention is directed to new or improved batteries, separators, components, and/or compositions having heavy metal removal capabilities and/or methods of manufacture and/or methods of use thereof.

Abstract: In accordance with at least selected embodiments or aspects, the present invention is directed to improved, unique, and/or high performance ISS lead acid battery separators, such as improved ISS flooded lead acid battery separators, ISS batteries including such separators, methods of production, and/or methods of use. The preferred ISS separator may include negative cross ribs and/or PIMS minerals. In accordance with more particular embodiments or examples, a PIMS mineral (preferably fish meal, a bio-mineral) is provided as at least a partial substitution for the silica filler component in a silica filled lead acid battery separator (preferably a polyethylene/silica separator formulation). In accordance with at least selected embodiments, the present invention is directed to new or improved batteries, separators, components, and/or compositions having heavy metal removal capabilities and/or methods of manufacture and/or methods of use thereof.

Abstract: The present invention provides methodologies and parameters for fabrication of the hybrid biomaterial by blending pure laminin or complex extracts of tissues containing laminin with biopolymers such as polycaprolactone (PCL), polylactic/polyglycolic acid copolymer (PLGA) or Polydioxanone (PDO) in fluoroalcohols (HFP, TFA), fabrication of substrates and scaffolds and devices from the hybrid biomaterial in forms such as films, nanofibers by electrospinning or microspheres, and the biological or biomedical use of the material or devices derived from it.

Abstract: A cryogel-forming vinyl alcohol co-polymer is operable to form a cryogel, i.e., a hydrogel formed by crytropic gelation, in an aqueous solution at a concentration of less than about 10% by weight, in the absence of a chemical cross-linking agent and in the absence of an emulsifier. In one embodiment, a vinyl alcohol co-polymer cryogel comprises at least about 75% by weight water and a vinyl alcohol co-polymer, wherein the vinyl alcohol co-polymer is operable to form a cryogel in an aqueous solution at a concentration of less than about 10% by weight, in the absence of a chemical cross-linking agent and in the absence of an emulsifier.

Abstract: An adhesive composition substantially free of formaldehyde, comprising at least one bio-derived component, at least one multivalent cation and at least one polymer having a crosslinkable group, wherein the polymer having at least one crosslinkable group is substantially free of epichlorohydrin.

Abstract: The application describes materials derived from keratin proteins in combination with polymers, either as intimate mixtures with water soluble polymers, or as chemically bound copolymers. The keratin protein is a specific keratin protein fraction, and is preferably intact, s-sulfonated and from the intermediate filament protein family. The application also describes the process for production of these materials.

Abstract: In a method for synthesizing polymeric microstructures, a monomer stream is flowed, at a selected flow rate, through a fluidic channel. At least one shaped pulse of illumination is projected to the monomer stream, defining in the monomer stream a shape of at least one microstructure corresponding to the illumination pulse shape while polymerizing that microstructure shape in the monomer stream by the illumination pulse.

Abstract: A resin composition that has high mechanical strength properties, has superior chemical characteristics such as chemical resistance and heat resistance, has high degree of freedom of product design, and has a structure considering the impact on environment is provided at low cost. The resin composition composed of a polyamide resin contains a cotton fiber as a natural fiber. The additive amount of the cotton fiber is preferably 1 wt % to 25 wt % both inclusive. The polyamide resin is polyamide 11 using castor oil as a raw material of plant origin. The average fiber diameter of the cotton fiber is 100 ?m or less. The polyamide resin and the cotton fiber are melted and kneaded, and then hot-formed, and thereby a shaped article containing a plant fiber can be fabricated. In addition to the cotton fiber, a plant fiber such as a hemp fiber, a bamboo fiber, and wood powder and a biofiber such as a silk fiber may be applied.

Abstract: The composition for forming an ink-receiver layer according to the invention comprises (A) a monomer component containing a monofunctional monomer; (B) a powder containing an egg white component; and (C) eggshell powder. The component (A) may further contain a polyfunctional monomer with two or more functions.

Abstract: The present invention provides silk fibre reinforced composite materials comprising a thermoplastic polymer matrix, which are relatively light, whilst having a high impact resistance. The silk fibre reinforced composite materials of the present invention allow for an optimal dissipation of the impact energy such that they have a penetration resistance higher than 20 J per mm of plate thickness, more preferably more than 30 J per mm, most preferably more than 40 J per mm. Due to the high impact resistance of the fibrous composite material according to the present invention, panels or shells comprising such composites are particularly useful for the manufacture of objects, which in the course of their life cycle are subject to shocks or at risk of penetration.

Abstract: Blended compositions and methods for the production of thermoset compositions of soy meal, which has been treated to remove non-thermoplastic materials associated with soy beans, and natural rubber. Also provided is a method for the preparation of a prepared granular soy meal by blowing a gas through a stream of granular natural soy meal to remove hulls and cellulose fiber materials which are lighter than the granular soy meal to provide the prepared granular soy meal for the compositions. The compositions are elastic and can be used in place of rubber bands and the like.

Abstract: Disclosed is a fiber for use as hair which has touch/shine like a hair, excellent curl-retaining property and flame retardancy. Also disclosed is a head-dressing product produced using the fiber. The fiber comprises (A) 90 to 10 parts by weight of polyester fiber and (B) 10 to 90 parts by weight of a reproduced collagen fiber containing an aluminum compound. Preferably, the aluminium compound is an aluminium salt and is contained in an amount of 8 to 20% by weight in terms of aluminium oxide. The polyester fiber may contain a flame retarder.

Abstract: A modified fiber fabric obtainable by polymerizing a component (X) which is a water-soluble eggshell membrane powder, a component (A) which is a bifunctional monomer represented by the following formula (1), a component (B) which is a monomer containing any one of a hydroxyl group, carboxyl group, amino group, sulfonic acid group, and phosphoric acid group, and a component (C) which is a monomer containing at least one aziridine group, or a water-soluble polymer containing a polycarbodiimide group, polyethyleneimine group, or oxazoline group, on a fiber fabric, wherein R represents any one of and —CnH2n— (n is an integer of 1 to 6); Z is a hydrogen atom or a methyl group; a and b are integers where “a+b” is 0 to 50; x and y are integers where “x+y” is 0 to 30; and “a+b+x+y” is 10 or more.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a composition for use in making a starch-based food or beverage container, the formulation allowing the container to be water resistant for a usable amount of time without the need for coatings or similar. An embodiment of the formulation comprising water, native and pregelatinized starch, an insolubilizing compound, proteins or natural polymeric compounds, fibers, a wax emulsion, and a fiber-sizing agent.

Abstract: An elastomer composition is provided which contains a matrix of a biomass plastic and crosslinked natural rubber particles dispersed like islands in the matrix. An eraser using the elastomer composition is also provided. The present invention is capable of providing an elastomer composition and an eraser using the same, which can be recycled, are friendly to the environment, and corresponds to the recycling society, without relying on fossil resources.

Abstract: The present invention provides radioprotective materials and products produced using the materials, the materials and products being easily usable for blocking the effects of radiation, exposure to which occurs unconsciously in daily life or in the working environment. Specifically stated, the present invention provides radioprotective materials comprising at least one member selected from the group consisting of collagens, keratins, silk fibroins and their derivatives. The present invention also provides radioprotective products produced using the radioprotective materials.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a liquid absorbent thermoplastic composition, which contains particles of a superabsorbent material having angle-lacking shapes. The composition is particularly suitable to be used in absorbent articles for personal hygiene, specifically in disposable absorbent articles, which have one or more transparent regions.