Abstract: Articles for use in contact with animal tissue, such as surgical and first aid supplies, health care products and personal hygiene products, are dusted with microspheres for lubricating purposes or for the application of diffusible adjuvants. In the latter case, the microspheres are porous, with a continuous network of pores open to the exterior of the particles, permitting outward diffusion of the adjuvants at a controlled rate depending on pore size. The adjuvants include such substances as biologically active substances, deodorants, flavors, fragrances, and liquid lubricants.

Abstract: Transdermal drug delivery systems comprise a backing or enclosure having a matrix layer which incorporates a drug and a percutaneous enhancer for the drug. The percutaneous enhancer and/or drug will be contained within polymeric particles dispersed through the matrix layer, where the polymeric particles define pore networks which are sized to release the enhancer and/or drug into the matrix layer at rate(s) selected to provide for a desired rate of drug penetration. By isolating the enhancer within the polymeric particles, adverse interactions between the enhancer and the matrix layer and/or the drug can be minimized. Moreover, the release rate of the enhancer into the matrix layer can be carefully controlled, which in turn controls the penetration rate of the drug into the treated host.

Abstract: Microscopic particles containing a continuous network of pores open to the particle surface are manufactured of a spongy material. The particles are useful as controlled-release delivery systems for active substances intended for a wide range of uses including topical applications. The spongy character of the particles enhances their usefulness in applications where high pressure or high temperature are encountered, and where exceptional smoothness of feel is required.

Abstract: Melanin compositions include a melanin pigment incorporated within polymeric particles, usually within an internal pore network defined by a polymeric particle matrix. The melanin compositions may be produced by in situ oxidation of melanin precursors within the pore network, or by absorption of a melanin pigment in a suitable vehicle or carrier. The melanin compositions are found to display enhanced absorbance of ultraviolet radiation and better cosmetic attributes when compared to melanin pigments which are not incorporated in such a polymeric particle matrix.

Abstract: Melanin compositions include a melanin pigment incorporated within an internal pore network defined by a polymeric particle matrix. The melanin compositions may be produced by in situ oxidation of melanin precursors within the pore network, or by absorption of a melanin pigment dispersed in a suitable vehicle or carrier. The melanin compositions are found to display enhanced absorbance of ultraviolet radiation when compared to melanin pigments which are not incorporated in such a polymeric particle matrix.

Abstract: A reaginic agglutination test for syphilis-associated antibodies is disclosed. The test uses an antigen reagent that comprises a buffered aqueous suspension of cardiolipin antigen ionically coupled to latex particles via a polypeptide bridge. Positive sera react with the antigen reagent and yield an agglutination pattern characterized by medium to large aggregates. Negative sera yield no agglutinated particles.

Abstract: Delivery vehicles comprised of a polymeric bead having a network of pores with an active ingredient held within the network are provided for use in a method to provide controlled release of the active ingredient. The network of pores is substantially non-collapsible upon removal of the active ingredient and the delivery vehicles are polymerized by a process in which the active ingredient also comprises the porogen during formation of the network of pores.