Abstract: A method of improving protein functionality includes obtaining a protein such as protein contained within exclusion bodies contained within bacteria or yeast used for the recombinant expression of the protein. The exclusion bodies are solubilized using a chaotropic agent such as guanidine or urea. The protein is then subject to denaturation conditions and optionally purified. A liquid containing the denatured protein is loaded into a vessel that is angled relative to horizontal. The vessel is then rotated in the angled configuration at a rate within that is less than 10,000 RPM for period of time. Refolded protein is formed by the high shear conditions formed in the thin film of fluid formed in the inner surface of the rotating vessel. Refolding can be performed in a batch mode or a continuous mode. The process may be scaled up for industrial applications by using multiple vessels.

Abstract: A prosthesis (2) for replacing a joint between first and second articulating bones (10, 12), the prosthesis comprising first and second joint members (4, 6) and wherein: the first joint member includes a first mounting member (26) which in use is mounted in an intramedullary canal (22) of the first bone; the second joint member includes a second mounting member (28) which in use is mounted in an intramedullary canal (27) of the second bone; the first joint member has a ball (30) having a first part spherical surface and a slot (34) extending transversely through the ball; the second joint member has a socket (52) having a second part spherical surface which is complementary to first spherical surface and a guide peg (60) which projects from the second spherical surface and in use is located in said slot; and wherein the guide peg is loose fit within the slot thereby permitting biaxial rotation of the second member relative to the first member about at least first and second axes (14, 16).