Abstract: In one aspect of the disclosed embodiments, an inertial exercise device has an elongate member with opposing first and second end portions, and a sleeve movably coupled to the elongate member and disposed between the first and second end portions of the elongate member. A first elastic resistance element interfaces between the elongate member and the sleeve. A user-induced rhythmic movement of the sleeve along the elongate member alternatively toward the opposing first and second end portions causes the first elastic resistance element to alternately compress and extend as the first and second end portions of the elongate member oscillate relative to the sleeve.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to an external cardiac basal annuloplasty system (ECBAS or BACE-System: basal annuloplasty of the cardia externally) and methods for treatment of regurgitation of mitral and tricuspid valves. The BACE-System provides the ability to correct leakage of regurgitation of the valves with or without the use of cardiopulmonary bypass, particularly when the condition is related to dilation of the base of the heart. This ECBAS invention can be applied to the base of the heart epicardially, either to prevent further dilation or to actively reduce the size of the base of the heart.

Abstract: Crosslinked polymer compositions comprise a first synthetic polymer containing multiple nucleophilic groups covalently bound to a second synthetic polymer containing multiple electrophilic groups. The first synthetic polymer is preferably a synthetic polypeptide or a polyethylene glycol that has been modified to contain multiple nucleophilic groups, such as primary amino (—NH2) or thiol (—SH) groups. The second synthetic polymer may be a hydrophilic or hydrophobic synthetic polymer which contains, or has been derivatized to contain, two or more electrophilic groups, such as succinimidyl groups. The compositions may further comprise other components, such as naturally occurring polysaccharides or proteins (such as glycosaminoglycans or collagen) and/or biologically active agents.

Abstract: Affinity bound collagen matrices for the delivery of biologically active agents, and methods for preparing such matrices, are disclosed. A preferred method for preparing the matrices of the invention comprises mixing a binding ligand and an active agent together, allowing the resulting binding ligand-active agent mixture to form an affinity bound complex, then combining the resulting affinity bound complex with collagen to form a matrix. Particular affinity bound matrices comprising collagen, heparin, and an active agent are also disclosed, as well as methods for using the matrices of the invention for delivery of biologically active agents.

Abstract: Anti-adhesion films useful for the prevention of surgical adhesions are disclosed. These films comprise substrate materials (such as collagen) and hetero-bifunctional anti-adhesion binding agents, wherein the substrate material is covalently linked to receptive tissue within the body of a patient via the binding agent. Preferred binding agents comprise substrate-reactive and tissue-selective functional groups. Anti-adhesion compositions useful for the formation of such films are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an accessory for golf clubs, and more particularly to a device for protecting golf club shafts composed of materials such as graphite. It is designed primarily to protect the section of the golf club shaft which is nearest to the head of a golf club, which is especially prone to marring and abrasion during transport, storage and use. Primarily, it consists of an outer surface and an inner surface which, combined, form a protective component, with a fastening component attached thereto for securing the golf club shaft protector in place.