Abstract: A matching mechanism for matching entities in an exchange, the entities being based on disparate criteria, the mechanism including a first input from a first set of users adapted to submit to a processor a first criterion from a first set of criteria relevant to the first set of users, which first criterion characterises an entity to be matched. The mechanism including a second input from a second set of users adapted to submit to the processor a second criterion from a second set of criteria relevant to the second set of users, which second criterion characterises another entity to be matched, wherein the first and second criteria are different. The processor is programmed to transform the first criterion into first data of a third criterion, transform the second criterion into second data of the third criterion, compare the first and second data of the third criterion and flag a match between the two entities if the first and second data of the third criteria match.

Abstract: The present invention in a first aspect relates to an element having a nonporous hollow body and a filling, wherein the nonporous hollow body is formed from bioresorbable magnesium and/or a bioresorbable magnesium alloy and the filling comprises a biocomposite material, wherein the biocomposite material comprises at least one biocompatible polymer component A and one ceramic component B. In a further aspect, the present invention is directed to a method for producing this element, which is especially suitable for use in bone surgery.

Abstract: A valve system including a number of shape memory alloy (“SMA”)-actuated valves for controlling the flow of fluids is disclosed as is a variety of types of SMA-actuated valves and methods of operation. In one embodiment, a valve system includes a housing having a substantially closed cavity as well as a second port for communicating a fluid. Further, the valve system includes a first SMA actuator configured to control the position of the first seal to vary fluid flow through the firs port, and a first temperature compensator for adjusting the position of the seal by an amount proportional to temperature. A second SMA-actuated valve, driven by either a unidirectional or a bidirectional SMA actuator, controls the position of the second seal to vary fluid flow through the second port, and a second temperature compensator for adjusting the position of the second seal by another amount proportional to temperature.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for the effective treatment of articulating joint surface cartilage in an animal by the transplantation of an implantable article including chondrocyte cells retained to an absorbable support matrix. The present invention is also directed to an instrument for placing and manipulating the implantable article at the site of implantation, and a retention device for securing the implantable article to the site of implantation. The present invention is also directed to an implantable article for cartilage repair in an animal, the implantable article including chondrocyte cells retained on an absorbable support matrix, and a method of making same. This invention also encompasses, in general, an article comprising an absorbable flexible support matrix for living cells grown and adhered thereto.

Abstract: A method for the effective treatment of articulating joint surface cartilage in an animal by the transplantation of an implantable article including chondrocyte cells retained to an absorbable support matrix. An instrument for placing and manipulating the implantable article at the site of implantation, and a retention device for securing the implantable article to the site of implantation. An implantable article for cartilage repair in an animal, the implantable article including chondrocyte cells retained on an absorbable support matrix, and a method of making same. An article comprising an absorbable flexible support matrix for living cells grown and adhered thereto.

Abstract: A biocompatible, resorbable Type II collagen-based matrix is reconstituted from solubilized animal cartilage tissue and used in the culture and growth of cells, such as chondrocyte cells. The matrix is produced by isolating cartilage tissue, solubilizing and reconstituting the cartilage to form a fleece-like material, pressing the fleece-like material to form a sheet-like article, and sterilizing the article. An implantable article for cartilage repair includes chondrocyte cells retained on the matrix.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for the effective treatment of articulating joint surface cartilage in an animal by the transplantation of an implantable article including chondrocyte cells retained to an absorbable support matrix. The present invention is also directed to an instrument for placing and manipulating the implantable article at the site of implantation, and a retention device for securing the implantable article to the site of implantation. The present invention is also directed to an implantable article for cartilage repair in an animal, the implantable article including chondrocyte cells retained on an absorbable support matrix, and a method of making same. This invention also encompasses, in general, an article comprising an absorbable flexible support matrix for living cells grown and adhered thereto.