Abstract: A protective sheath for use with an immobilized pH gradient (IPG) strip in an isoelectric focusing (IEF) process is generally disclosed. The protective sheath can inhibit dehydration of the IPG strip during use through loss of water to the atmosphere and/or migration of water due to electroosmotic flow without the use of mineral oil or another water-immiscible liquid. The protective sheath can generally be configured in a tube-like shape having an inner cavity. The protective sheath can define a top surface, a bottom surface, two side surfaces, a sealed end, and an open end. The top surface can have at least 2 openings, which can be covered by pull-tabs.

Abstract: A method of stimulating the production of proteoglycans in a living animal cell comprising administering one or more Vitamin D3 metabolites to the living cells is provided.

Abstract: Disclosed are systems and methods as may be used for development of compounds that can be utilized for prevention of pathological calcification. Disclosed are functional models can represent in great detail the first steps in protein-membrane interaction leading to calcification. Disclosed compounds include those that interfere with pathologic calcification processes and thus may be used as part of a formulation or composition for preventing pathological calcifications. Modeling methods and systems can include in vitro and/or in silico dynamic molecular modeling of biological materials including representative mineralization models in conjunction with substances that can affect normal or pathogenic calcification processes. Disclosed models can examine interactions of biological components involved in calcification including calcium, inorganic phosphate, phosphatidylserine, and annexin-5 protein.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods and systems that can be quickly and efficiently utilized to examine the kinetics of a growth and development protocol in a controlled environment, for instance in vivo. Disclosed systems can include a synthetic mineralization complex that can nucleate calcium phosphate mineral deposition in a controlled environment, for instance a controlled environment that can mimic a natural environment in which biomineralization takes place. Also disclosed are non-contact optical methods as may be utilized to examine the kinetics of a developing solid phase. Disclosed systems and methods can be beneficially utilized in high throughput screening in the development of drugs for the treatment and prevention of pathological calcifications such as osteoarthritis and atherosclerosis.

Abstract: A cement powder is disclosed that contains reactive tricalcium phosphate nanoparticles and other ingredients required to form a cementous material. Methods of making the reactive tricalcium phosphate nanoparticles, the cement powder, the cement paste, and cured cement are also provided, as are methods and articles for using the cement.

Abstract: A cement powder is disclosed that contains reactive tricalcium phosphate nanoparticles and other ingredients required to form a cementous material. Methods of making the reactive tricalcium phosphate nanoparticles, the cement powder, the cement paste, and cured cement are also provided, as are methods and articles for using the cement.