Abstract: Proteins consisting of, from amino to carboxyl terminus, a first PDGF-D growth factor domain polypeptide, a linker polypeptide, and a second PDGF-D growth factor domain polypeptide, and materials and methods for making the proteins are disclosed. Each of the first and second PDGF-D growth factor domain polypeptides consists of a sequence of amino acid residues as shown in SEQ ID NO: 2 or SEQ ID NO: 4 from amino acid x to amino acid y, wherein x is an integer from 246 to 258, inclusive, and y is an integer from 365-370, inclusive. The linker polypeptide consists of from 11-40 amino acid residues. The proteins can be used to stimulate the production of bone and/or connective tissue in both humans and non-human animals.

Abstract: A Factor VIII composition formulated without albumin, comprising the following formulation excipients in addition to Factor VIII: 4% to 10% of a bulking agent selected from the group consisting of mannitol, glycine and alanine; 1% to 4% of a stabilizing agent selected from the group consisting of sucrose, trehalose, raffinose, and arginine; 1 mM to 5 mM calcium salt; 100 mM to 300 mM NaCl; and a buffering agent for maintaining a pH of approximately between 6 and 8. Alternatively, the formulation can comprise 2% to 6% hydroxyethyl starch; 1% to 4% of a stabilizing agent selected from the group consisting of sucrose, trehalose, raffinose, and arginine; 1 mM to 5 mM calcium salt; 100 mM to 300 mM NaCl; and a buffering agent for maintaining a pH of approximately between 6 and 8.

Abstract: The present invention provides isolated bovine Neospora cultures. Also provided are recombinant immunodominant Neospora antigens. The cultures and antigens are used to develop diagnostic assays for the detection of Neospora infections in cattle and other animals. Also provided are pharmaceutical compositions for the treatment and prevention of Neospora infections.