Abstract: Described herein is a generalized injection device for delivering formulations of various mechanical properties to precise locations. Of particular interest is the manifestation intended for the application of a thermally responsive hydrogel to the tear duct for the purpose of occlusion, as a treatment for symptoms associated with dry eye syndrome. Further, a modular solution to the need for an injection device across a variety of applications, mechanism, and physical considerations is provided. This disclosure provides examples of methods for precise injection of low volumes, moisture retention in pre-filled injection devices, and actuation for automatic or manual injection, to name a few.

Abstract: Described herein are hydrogels composed of binary copolymers. In one aspect, the copolymer comprises at least one residue from (a) an acrylamide selected from the group consisting of a C1-C4 N-alkyl acrylamide, a C1-C4 N,N-dialkyl acrylamide, and a combination thereof and (b) an alkyl acrylate selected from the group consisting of a C5-C18 alkyl acrylate, a C5-C18 alkyl methacrylate, and a combination thereof, wherein the alkyl acrylate is at most 3 weight percent of the copolymer. The hydrogels can be used to occlude a duct or channel in a subject. For example, the hydrogels can occlude a tear duct, which has numerous medical benefits as described herein.

Abstract: Described herein are compositions and uses for an adaptive polymer system. Components of the polymer are used to balance smart behavior around an environmental trigger point with desirable material properties and formulation additives. The APS allows engineering of smart materials and products with desired smart behaviors and material properties on both sides of the trigger point for that behavior. When applied to solvent-based polymer gels, the APS allows for precise control of cloud point behavior and material properties that enable a range of consumer, biomedical, and industrial applications.

Abstract: Described herein is a generalized injection device for delivering formulations of various mechanical properties to precise locations. Of particular interest is the manifestation intended for the application of a thermally responsive hydrogel to the tear duct for the purpose of occlusion, as a treatment for symptoms associated with dry eye syndrome. Further, a modular solution to the need for an injection device across a variety of applications, mechanism, and physical considerations is provided. This disclosure provides examples of methods for precise injection of low volumes, moisture retention in pre-filled injection devices, and actuation for automatic or manual injection, to name a few.

Abstract: Described herein are coating compositions that can be applied to a number of different substrates. The coating compositions can be used as decorative or protective layers across a range of applications and formulations such as, for example, cosmetics. In one aspect, the coating composition includes a solvent, one or more polymers, and optional additives for enhancing or modifying the properties of the coating composition such as, for example, mechanical properties, rheological properties, appearance, and environmental sensitivity. When applied to the substrate, the coating composition forms a polymer film as the solvent present in the coating composition evaporates. The coating compositions may be easily removed from the substrate with the use of a solvent or a removal solution that reacts or mechanically weakens the film.

Abstract: Described herein is a generalized injection device for delivering formulations of various mechanical properties to precise locations. Of particular interest is the manifestation intended for the application of a thermally responsive hydrogel to the tear duct for the purpose of occlusion, as a treatment for symptoms associated with dry eye syndrome. Further, a modular solution to the need for an injection device across a variety of applications, mechanism, and physical considerations is provided. This disclosure provides examples of methods for precise injection of low volumes, moisture retention in pre-filled injection devices, and actuation for automatic or manual injection, to name a few.

Abstract: A novel glue for embolization of lymphatic leakage. An optimized lymphatic embolization agent (LEA) as described herein comprises a NAM hydrogel and tantalum at a mixture of at or about 1:3 tantalum to NAM hydrogel, wherein said LEA is radiopaque.