Abstract: A method and system for the effective and consistent encapsulation of viable (i.e., living or physiologically active) biological material (preferably, pancreatic islets also known as islets of Langerhans) with a polymeric material (preferably, a biocompatible semipermeable alginate) to form a gelled capsule, which can be transplanted into genetically dissimilar hosts. The method includes an electrostatic mixing process for producing encapsulated cell clusters with at least two polymeric coatings, and the system includes an improved spinning disk atomizer.

Abstract: A method and system for the effective and consistent encapsulation of viable (i.e., living or physiologically active) biological material (preferably, pancreatic islets also known as islets of Langerhans) with a polymeric material (preferably, a biocompatible semipermeable alginate) to form a gelled capsule, which preferably can be transplanted into genetically dissimilar hosts. The method includes an electrostatic mixing process for producing encapsulated cell clusters with at least two polymeric coatings, and the system includes an improved spinning disk atomizer. In an embodiment, biological material is encapsulated in a first alginate layer, the resultant capsules are suspended in a liquid carrier medium such as a saline solution, an electrostatic charge is applied to the carrier medium which is then introduced into an alginate solution, and the resultant suspension is atomized and gelled to form a second alginate layer.

Abstract: A method and system for the effective and consistent encapsulation of viable (i.e., living or physiologically active) biological material (preferably, pancreatic islets also known as islets of Langerhans) with a polymeric material (preferably, a biocompatible semipermeable alginate) to form a gelled capsule, which can be transplanted into genetically dissimilar hosts. The method includes an electrostatic mixing process for producing encapsulated cell clusters with at least two polymeric coatings, and the system includes an improved spinning disk atomizer.

Abstract: Novel hydrophilic copolymers are prepared containing a major portion of polymerized units of an hydroxyalkyl acrylate or methacrylate monomer and a minor portion of a nitro-substituted aryl acrylate or methacrylate monomer, and optionally with a minor amount of an alkylene glycol diacrylate or methacrylate as a cross-linking agent. These copolymers are made by a free radical polymerization mechanism or by gamma radiation of the reaction mixture. These copolymers are particularly useful as soft contact lens polymers, being extremely resistant to clouding and/or discoloration in use.

Abstract: A hydrophilic polymer shaped article adapted for use as a soft contact lens is treated to provide at least on the surfaces thereof a modified, less hydrophilic polymeric structure inhibiting penetration by proteins and other substances in the eye environment, whereby development of clouding and discoloration of the lens material during use is significantly retarded.

Abstract: A hydrophilic polymer shaped article adapted for use as a soft contact lens is treated to provide at least on the surfaces thereof a modified, less hydrophilic polymeric structure inhibiting penetration by bacteria and proteins, whereby development of clouding and discoloration of the lens material during use is significantly retarded. Modification of the lens surfaces is effected by treatment of the lenses, either unhydrated or in a partially hydrated state, at a temperature ranging from room temperature to 100.degree. C. and for a time period of 1 to 24 hours, with a water-soluble mono- or poly-carboxylic acid selected from alpha-amino acids, such as arginine, cysteine, glycine and like acids, aliphatic dicarboxylic acids or aromatic dicarboxylic and tricarboxylic acids, such as malonic, maleic, glutaric, citraionic, itaconic acid and the like.