Abstract: Macroencapsulation devices and related methods of manufacture are described where bonded membranes of a device may be mounted to an associated frame in an arrangement to provide stress relief between the frame and a seal perimeter of the bonded membranes. The seal perimeter may be arranged radially inward from an outer perimeter of the membranes such that when the membranes are mounted to a corresponding perimeter frame, the seal perimeter is spaced radially inwards from the frame with a unbonded portion of the one or more membranes disposed between the frame and seal perimeter.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for the improvement of gastrointestinal absorption and systemic utilization of nutrients and nutritional supplements, wherein the compositions comprise a minimum of 98% of pure alkaloid piperine. The method comprises oral, topical, or parenteral administration of the compositions of the invention. A new process for the extraction and purification of piperine is also disclosed.

Abstract: Curcuminoids have been found to have anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic, anti-mutagen, anticancer and detox properties. The present invention is directed to compositions containing three curcuminoids, i.e. curcumin, demethoxy curcumin and bis demethoxy curcumin, extracted from roots of tumeric. These compositions have been found to have activity in the anti-oxidant mechanisms of prevention and intervention.

Abstract: A method of promoting lean body mass in an individual is disclosed, comprising administering to the individual a lean body mass promoting effective amount of forskohlin. A method of treating a mood disorder is also disclosed, comprising administering to a patient in need thereof a mood disorder treating effective amount of forskohlin. Compositions suitable for promoting lean body mass and/or treating a mood disorder are also disclosed, the composition comprising about 1 to about 40% forskohlin in combination with at least one physiologically acceptable carrier or excipient. A method of preparing a forskohlin composition from a forskohlin extract of Coleus Forskoli plant is further disclosed, as well as a forskohlin composition prepared by the method.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods of suppressing appetite and causing weight loss by administering to a patient hydroxy citric acid in the form of a potassium salt extracted from Garcinia fruit. Methods of inhibiting cytoplasmic citric lyase and increasing fat metabolism in a patient are also described.

Abstract: A new composition and method for the improvement of gastrointestinal absorption and systemic utilization of nutrients and nutritional supplements, wherein the composition comprises an extract from the fruit of Piper containing a minimum of 98% of pure alkaloid piperine. The method comprises oral, topical, or parenteral administration of the compositions of the invention. A new process for the extraction and purification of piperine is also disclosed.