Abstract: Compositions and methods are provided in which magnesium, copper, zinc, and strontium are provided to enhance osteogenesis, improve bone growth, and/or improve bone density. Magnesium, copper, zinc, and strontium are provided in a defined molar ratio providing synergistic effects that permit the use of small amounts of individual metal species, and without the need for supplemental calcium.

Abstract: A mechanism to connect the supporting portions of orthopaedic implants such as in the head, spine, upper limb and lower limb and thereby prevent loosening and fretting at the implant interface of an orthopaedic implant construct has been developed based on shape memory effect and super-elasticity of shape memory materials such as nickel-titanium (nitinol or NiTi) shape-memory-alloy, without the use of typical threaded fastening technique. Advantages are conferred by making the entire device, not just connecting pieces, out of shape memory alloy and having shape memory effect and super-elasticity. Heating the memory head of the device will compress the connection portion without the use of an auxiliary device (e.g. coupling member) so that the connection portion can be completely clamped down by the memory head.

Abstract: Novel hybrid materials and fabrication methods thereof are provided. The novel hybrid materials can include a biodegradable polymer and a biodegradable metallic material. The hybrid material can also include a coupling agent between the biodegradable metallic material and the biodegradable polymer. A method of fabricating a hybrid material can include performing a surface treatment process on the biodegradable metallic material, and then either performing a solvent formation method or a thermal formation method.

Abstract: This invention involves a plasma treated and controllable release antimicrobial peptide coated titanium alloy for surgical implantation, where the alloy with antimicrobial properties is fabricated using surface techniques without adversely compromising its biocompatibility and original mechanical properties. The surface techniques form antimicrobial layers on the alloy capable of resisting microbial adhesion and proliferation, while allowing mammalian cell adhesion and proliferation when the alloy is implanted to human body. In one embodiment, PIII&D is applied to incorporate ions, electrons, free radicals, atoms or molecules on a titanium alloy substrate. A pressurized hydrothermal treatment can be carried out to establish reactive functional groups for antimicrobial purpose or for connecting the substrate and external antimicrobial molecules.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a shape memory and/or super-elastic material, such as a nickel titanium alloy. Additionally or alternatively, the present invention relates to a super-elastic or pseudo-elastic material that has an initial transition temperature Af above a body temperature. The shape memory material can have a super-elasticity or pseudo-elasticity property at a temperature below the initial transition temperature Af of the material. For example, the shape memory material can have its workable temperature for producing super-elasticity or pseudo-elasticity of about 0° C. to 15° C. below the initial transition temperature Af. The shape memory material can be malleable at a room temperature, and become super-elastic or pseudo-elastic at a body temperature. In addition, the present invention relates to a method of making a shape memory or a super-elastic material.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a shape memory and/or super-elastic material, such as a nickel titanium alloy. Additionally or alternatively, the present invention relates to a super-elastic or pseudo-elastic material that has an initial transition temperature Af above a body temperature. The shape memory material can have a super-elasticity or pseudo-elasticity property at a temperature below the initial transition temperature Af of the material. For example, the shape memory material can have its workable temperature for producing super-elasticity or pseudo-elasticity of about 0° C. to 15° C. below the initial transition temperature Af. The shape memory material can be malleable at a room temperature, and become super-elastic or pseudo-elastic at a body temperature. In addition, the present invention relates to a method of making a shape memory or a super-elastic material.