Abstract: The present invention relates a temperature-controlled pH-dependant formation of ionic polysaccharide gels, such as chitosan/organo-phosphate aqueous systems, and methods of preparation thereof. While chitosan aqueous solutions are pH-dependant gelating systems, the addition of a mono-phosphate dibasic salt of polyol or sugar to a chitosan aqueous solutions leads to further temperature-controlled pH-dependant gelation. Solid organo-phosphate salts (1-20% w/v) are added and dissolved at low temperature (10° C.) within 0.5 to 4.0% w/v chitosan in aqueous acidic solutions. Aqueous chitosan/organo-phosphate solutions are initially stored at low temperatures (4° C.), then endothermally gelated within the temperature range of 30 to 60° C. Chitosan/organo-phosphate solutions rapidly turn into gels at the desired gelation temperature. Gelation can be ex vivo within any receivers or molds, or in situ in animals or humans (in vivo) so as to fill a tissue defect or cavity.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a new method for the production of polymer microparticles.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a medical apparatus for the early detection and the diagnosis of cartilage degeneration and a method for using such apparatus. The apparatus comprises at least two point electrodes, a signal processor located in proximity of the electrodes, a defined abutment in recess of the electrodes for allowing compression of the cartilage against the electrodes until the cartilage abuts against the abutment surface and a computer program for analyzing and interpreting the data received from the electrodes. The medical apparatus may be used in research to identify effects of new compounds or drugs on the cartilage or may be used in clinics to monitor the degradation of cartilage of a patient over an extended period of time.