Abstract: The present invention relates to the fields of hydration and nutrition for dysphagic patients. In particular, the present invention relates to thickeners comprising probiotic microorganisms and to compositions comprising such thickeners. The probiotic micro-organisms may be non-replicating probiotic micro-organisms such as bioactive heat treated probiotic microorganisms.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for forming a temporary obstruction of the intestine of a mammal, using a solidifiable composition, said composition being flowable and solidifiable to form a solid plug at a desired site within the intestine, the structure of said plug being changeable in order to allow for the subsequent, at least partial removal of the obstruction.

Abstract: A composition for forming a temporary intestinal occlusion in a mammal is flowable and solidifiable to form a solid plug at a predetermined site in the intestine, the structure of the plug being changeable to allow for a subsequent, at least partial removal of the occlusion. The composition is or comprises a flowable solution, suspension, or dispersion in a solvent or mixed solvent, and comprises the following: a) a suspension of a solid in water or an aqueous mixed solvent, the suspension having a water content which exceeds the flow limit of the suspension by a specific amount; b) a dehydrating agent in an amount which is sufficient to bind the specific amount of water, so that, as a consequence of dehydration, the flow limit of the suspension is exceeded; and c) a means for passivating the dehydrating agent.

Abstract: The subject invention relates to a skin cream that can be used to moisturize and rejuvenate skin that has been damaged by exposure to sunlight or which has simply been affected over the years by intrinsic aging. It inhibits the formation of wrinkles and in some cases reduces the depth of existing wrinkles or eliminates them entirely. This invention is based upon the discovery that alkyl lactates, such as ethyl lactate, can be used to improve the penetration of active ingredients in skin care formulations deep into lower layers of the skin tissue. The present invention more specifically discloses a topical formulation comprising ascorbic acid, an amino acid selected from the group consisting of phenylalanine and tyrosine, a non-toxic zinc salt, an alkyl lactate, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

Abstract: Disclosed is a three-phase emulsion comprising an aqueous-gel outer phase; and a water-in-oil inner phase, wherein the emulsion is stable. The aqueous-gel outer phase can include 10% to 50% by weight of the total weight of the emulsion. This phase can also include 70% to 95% by weight of water based on the total weight of the aqueous-gel outer phase, a gelling agent, and an emulsifier having a hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) value of 10 to 19. The water-in-oil inner phase can include 50% to 95% by weight based on the total weight of the three-phase emulsion. This phase can also include 50% to 80% by weight of water based on the total weight of the water-in-oil inner phase, 20% to 50% by weight of oil based on the total weight of the water-in-oil inner phase, and an emulsifier.

Abstract: A cosmetic peeling preparation which comprises a plurality of capsules. A capsule comprises a casing and a filling. The casing material is solid at 25° C. and selected from cosmetically conventional lipids, waxes, emulsifiers, natural polymers, synthetic polymers, and mixtures thereof. The filling comprises an oil or lipid mixture having a viscosity at 25° C. of from 3 to 50,000 mPas and one or more solid substances having an abrasive effect.

Abstract: The invention comprises the use of one or more charged surfactants in preparations having an antiperspirant effect for reducing staining in or on clothing and improving improvement the ability of stains to be washed out of the clothing.

Abstract: The invention relates to core-shell particles, the shell of which includes aggregated, hydrophobicized silicon dioxide particles, and the core of which includes a liquid phase, and in which the ratio of aggregated, hydrobicized silicon dioxide particles to the liquid phase, based on the total weight of the particles, is 2:98 to 40:60, where 60-100% by weight of glycerol is present in the liquid phase. The invention further encompasses the production of these core-shell particles and also their use for cosmetic purposes.

Abstract: Storage-stable, anti-microbial compositions and products include a carrier and a ceragenin compound suspended in the carrier. Ceragenin compounds suspended in the carrier include a sterol backbone and a number of cationic groups attached to the sterol backbone via hydrolysable linkages. The carrier has a pH of 5.5 or less, which acts to stabilize the hydrolysable linkages and increase the shelf-life of the anti-microbial compositions and anti-microbial products. Nevertheless, the ceragenin compounds described herein are designed to break down relatively quickly (e.g., within about 5 days) if the pH environment of the ceragenin compounds is raised to about pH 6.5 or greater.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of use, of a mixture of chemical compounds for a shark repellent, as well as methods of protection garments in using such material(s). Generally, there are not many shark repellents. This shark repellent contains a mixture of chemical compounds that are highly toxic and trenchant, which will deter the shark from injured or non-injured humans or animals, once the mixture is immersed in water.

Abstract: An antimicrobial coating slurry includes about 15.5 wt % of a wetting agent, about 6.0 wt % of an insolubilizer, about 1.1 wt % of a biocide agent, and about 7.8 wt % of an inorganic material that includes lithium oxide and the balance water. The slurry is applied to a heat exchanger surface, cured, and washed to form a hydrophilic coating that includes lithium silicate. The hydrophilic coating provides improved moisture wicking and a reduced dissolution rate of biocide, which is held within a lithium silicate matrix.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method of producing and dispensing a foam using a “high lower alcohol content” (>40% v/v of a C1-4 alcohol) liquid composition. The liquid compositions comprise an alcohol, C1-4 (>40% v/v), a silicone-based surfactant of at least 0.001% by weight to prepare a foamable composition, 0-10% w/w of additional minor components added to obtain the desired performance (a foamable composition), and the balance being purified water. The compositions may include emulsifier-emollients and moisturizers, secondary surfactants, foam stabilizers, fragrances, antimicrobial agents, other type of medicinal ingredients, and the like ingredients or additives or combinations thereof commonly added to alcohol gels or foams, aerosol compositions or to toiletries, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and the like.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide compositions for controlling a target pest including a first agent and a second agent comprising a pest control product or a signal cascade modulator, wherein the first agent and the second agent act synergistically to control the target pest. The first agent can be capable of interacting with a receptor in the target pest. The pest control product can have a first activity against the target pest when applied without the active agent and the compositions can have a second activity against the target pest; and the second activity can be greater than the first activity. Embodiments of the invention can include compositions that modulate the signal cascade initiated by the binding of ligands to, for example, cell surface receptors. Methods of screening such compositions are also disclosed.

Abstract: A water soluble bag for containing soiled textiles, said bag having an open end, a closed end, and sides extending therebetween, said bag made of a plastic film having a thickness of at least 1.3 mils, wherein said bag dissolves in water at a temperature of 165° F. in less than about 250 seconds and does not dissolve in water at a temperature of 85° F. in 7 days, and said bag being capable of containing at least 175 lbs. of soiled textiles and having a capacity of at least 50 gallons. Also disclosed is a receptacle for collecting soiled textiles comprising a container and a water soluble bag. Also disclosed is a receptacle for collecting soiled textiles comprising a container, a sling, and a water soluble bag.

Abstract: Implantable medical devices (IMDS) having anti-infective properties are described. Anti-infective agents are disposed in, on, or about at least a portion of a surface of the medical device. The anti-infective agents are disposed in or on a vehicle, which may be in the form of a coating layer or covering. The vehicle may be biodegradable so that, over time, the anti-infective agent is removed from a tissue location into which the device is implanted, reducing the likelihood that microorganisms resistant to the anti-infective agent will develop. IMDs having an anti-infective agent and an anti-activity agent disposed therein, thereabout, or thereon are also described. The anti-activity agent interferes with the activity of the anti-infective agent, may be released from a surface at the IMD at a time when activity of the anti-infective agent is no longer desired, and may reduce the likelihood that microorganisms resistant to the anti-infective agent will develop.

Abstract: A biocompatible tissue repair stimulating implant or “scaffold” device is used to repair tissue injuries, particularly injuries to ligaments, tendons, and nerves. Such implants are especially useful in methods that involve surgical procedures to repair injuries to ligament, tendon, and nerve tissue in the hand and foot. The repair procedures may be conducted with implants that contain a biological component that assists in healing or tissue repair.

Abstract: The present invention relates to immobilized biologically active entities having heparin cofactor II binding activity.

Abstract: It is intended to provide a drug delivery system which makes it possible to solve the existing technical problems and is easily usable in practice. A drug, which comprises an organic compound or an inorganic compound and has been magnetized by modifying a side chain and/or crosslinking side chains, is induced by a magnetic force into target tissues or an affected part.

Abstract: A process creates a homogenous sheet of engineered tissue comprised of encapsulated cells and a deformable engineered tissue construct. In the embodiment consisting of a collagen construct with encapsulated cells capable of contracting the matrix, the collagen fibers and encapsulated cells are aligned during the process. An apparatus can deliver controlled homogenous strain and stress to a thin sheet of engineered tissue. This process allows application of dynamic, uniform tensile loading to deformable engineered tissue constructs and creation of an engineered cell-delivery construct with alignment of both fibers and encapsulated cells.

Abstract: The present invention describes an extracellular matrix comprising human platelet derived growth factors, that permits the maximizing of therapeutic efficacy, combining the benefits of both components, to result in a more efficient and rapid integration of the matrix up to the structurally organized reconstruction of the neoformed tissue “in vivo”.

Abstract: Implantable or insertable medical devices are provided, which comprises: (a) a biocompatible polymer; and (b) at least one therapeutic agent selected from an anti-inflammatory agent, an analgesic agent, an anesthetic agent, and an antispasmodic agent. The medical devices are adapted for implantation or insertion at a site associated with pain or discomfort upon implantation or insertion. In many embodiments, the therapeutic will be selected from at least one of (i) ketorolac and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof (e.g., ketorolac tromethamine) and (ii) 4-diethylamino-2-butynylphenylcyclohexyl glycolate and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof (e.g., oxybutynin chloride). Also provided are uses for the implantable or insertable medical devices, which uses comprise reducing pain or discomfort accompanying the implantation or insertion of such devices. Further uses may comprise reducing microbial buildup along the device.

Abstract: A drug insert is configured for use with an implant. The implant is configured for insertion into a lacrimal canaliculus. The drug insert includes a drug core comprising a therapeutic agent and a polymer; and a sheath body comprising material substantially impermeable to the therapeutic agent, wherein the drug core is positioned within the sheath body. The sheath body is configured to provide an exposed end of the drug core that releases therapeutic agent to an eye when the drug insert is disposed within the implant and the implant is positioned in the lacrimal canaliculus. A distal end of the drug core is sealed with a medical-grade adhesive.

Abstract: A material for use as a wound dressing, the material being in the form of a roll and comprising gel forming fibers and the material having lines of longitudinal stitching.

Abstract: A patch comprising a backing layer and an adhesive layer disposed on the backing layer and compounded with a drug and an adhesive base agent, wherein the adhesive base agent comprises styrene-isoprene-styrene block copolymer, 2-ethylhexyl acrylate-vinyl acetate copolymer and a basic nitrogen-including polymer including a basic nitrogen and having no adhesion property at normal temperature.

Abstract: A method for delivery of substance through at least one dermal layer, by providing a substance in microcapsules at a predetermined size, within a medium (150) for holding the microcapsules; placing the medium for holding the microcapsules on a surface of a patch (100) adjacent the skin (320) of a human or animal; and applying energy (200) to the patch, the energy having a characteristic of disturbing the integrity of the microcapsules, thereby resulting in release of the substance from the microcapsules. The energy may be selectively applied to release the substance at desired times. The substance may be a drug or other active agent.

Abstract: Orally administrable polymer-carrying units for expanding in a stomach of a mammal to fill a space in the stomach, the polymer-carrying units including: a carrier; a plurality of polymer molecules expandable in aqueous solutions, releasably coupled to the carrier; and means for selectively decoupling the polymer molecules from the carrier so that the polymer molecules and carrier are released in the stomach, are provided.

Abstract: Disclosed is a misuse preventative, controlled release formulation comprising a core comprising a superabsorbent material (for example, polycarbophil), a controlled release coat surrounding the core, and a plurality of controlled release microparticles having a pharmaceutically active agent (for example, an opioid analgesic) disposed within the core, the coat, or both the core and the coat. When crushed, either intentionally or accidentally, and exposed to an aqueous medium, the superabsorbent material present in the core swells to encapsulate the microparticles, which remain substantially intact thereby retarding the release of the pharmaceutically active agent from the formulation. Also disclosed is a method of using the misuse preventative, controlled release formulation to deliver a pharmaceutically active agent to a mammal, for example, a human, in need thereof.

Abstract: Provided are ingestible polymeric formulations and oral dosage forms for the reduction of gastric volume in the treatment of overweight and obese patients. The formulation includes an acid-sensitive, gelatin coating over a dehydrated hydrophilic polymer. When ingested, the acid-sensitive coating is quickly dissolved by gastric secretions and the hydrophilic polymer is exposed to the aqueous environment of the gastric milieu. The polymer absorbs water and expands to the point that will not allow the polymer to pass beyond the pyloric valve, and the expanded polymer is therefore trapped in the stomach.

Abstract: A multilayer oral dosage form that provides controlled release of an active compound includes a non-erodible core containing a pharmaceutically active compound and/or a nutritionally active compound, and at least one release-modulating layer laminated to each side of the core layer. The dosage form can be prepared using simple, inexpensive tablet compression techniques.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to a preparation of bone repair compositions, and more special refers to a novel technology in preparing a matrix building polymer i.e. collagen with inclusions of hydroxyapatite particles as biomaterial for medical applications. In this composition that consists of hydroxyapatite particles embedded in a matrix at least 50% nm. Said composition is suitable as bone implant material, dental cement and for applications in wound healing.

Abstract: Provided herein is an apparatus for printing cells which includes an electrospinning device and an inkjet printing device operatively associated therewith. Methods of making a biodegradable scaffold having cells seeded therein are also provided. Methods of forming microparticles containing one or more cells encapsulated by a substrate are also provided, as are methods of forming an array of said microparticles.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to controlled-release melatonin compositions and related methods. In one embodiment, a controlled-release medicament composition comprises melatonin dispersed in a controlled melatonin release portion comprising a polymer matrix, the polymer matrix adapted to encapsulate the melatonin in a melatonin solubility enhancing pH environment and to maintain the melatonin solubility enhancing pH environment when the composition is located in a melatonin solubility diminishing pH environment for allowing an effective amount of melatonin to be released into the melatonin solubility diminishing pH environment.

Abstract: Provided are methods for preparing gelled, solubilized extracellular matrix (ECM) compositions useful as cell growth scaffolds. Also provided are compositions prepared according to the methods as well as uses for the compositions. In one embodiment a device, such as a prosthesis, is provided which comprises an inorganic matrix into which the gelled, solubilized ECM is dispersed to facilitate in-growth of cells into the ECM and thus adaptation and/or attachment of the device to a patient.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a long-acting sustained-release dosage form for treatment of Parkinson Disease, comprising a dopamine receptor agonist and a pharmaceutically acceptable biodegradable polymer accessories, wherein the content of the dopamine receptor agonist in the sustained-release dosage form is 5-50% by weight, and the content of the pharmaceutically acceptable polymer accessories is 50-95% by weight.

Abstract: Provided are bioerodible compositions that can be implanted into cavities or mammalian tissue as a liquid or semi-liquid and which solidify upon exposure of the body temperature of the mammal. The implants erode over a prescribed period of time and elute a drug. The implants also form a seal with the skin or mucosa surrounding the cavity to prevent the entry of bacterial pathogens.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are cohesive soft tissue fillers, for example, dermal and subdermal fillers, based on hyaluronic acids and optionally including proteins. In one aspect, hyaluronic acid-based compositions described herein include zero-length cross-linked moieties and optionally at least one active agent. The present hyaluronic acid-based compositions have enhanced flow characteristics, hardness, and persistence compared to known hyaluronic acid-based compositions. Methods and processes of preparing such hyaluronic acid-based compositions are also provided.

Abstract: The invention provides a microsphere comprising an organic lanthanide metal complex wherein the lanthanide metal is present in an amount of more than 20 wt %, based on total microsphere. The invention further provides a suspension comprising such a microsphere. In addition, the invention relates to a method for preparing said microsphere, and the use of the microsphere(s) or suspension for treating a malignancy and/or obtaining a scanning image.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a solid pharmaceutical composition including the active principle 6-oxo-6,7,8,9,10,11-hexahydrocyclohepta[c]chromen-3-yl sulfamate. The present invention also relates to polymorphs of the 6-oxo-6,7,8,9,10,11-hexahydrocyclohepta[c]chromen-3-yl sulfamate compound.

Abstract: In order to avoid compromising the pharmacological effect of pancreatin caused by the addition of auxiliary materials or binding agents, a pancreatin pellet having a 100% pancreatin content consists exclusively of pancreatin with a residual moisture content of less than 3% by weight, preferably less than 1% by weight or less than 0.5% by weight.

Abstract: Bee venom may be administered in a standardized formulation with or without relatively small amounts of anesthetic. In particular, the results of the combination of venom and anesthetic dramatically decreased pain and discomfort for patients undergoing apitherapy.

Abstract: A block co-polymer includes a water soluble carrier block; an amino acid-based or acrylic acid-based block; and the amino acid-based or acrylic acid-based block includes a fluorinated alkyl group or a fluorinated alkylene glycol group.

Abstract: Methods of using a non-irritant, low pH acidic composition to destroy undesirable microorganisms are described. The methods may be used on food products, food processing equipment, and in aqueous solutions.

Abstract: A composition for dissolving or reducing the viscosity of sputum on a surface of a device includes an effective amount of glycerol and an effective amount of dextran sulfate in a saline solution. The effective amount of glycerol is between about 30-50% and the effective amount of dextran sulfate is between about 10-30%. The composition may further include an antimicrobial agent.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are ophthalmic cleaning systems and methods for their use, which comprise an ophthalmic solution and lens case, wherein the solution includes dual disinfectants and the lens case includes silver. When the lens case is combined with the solution according to the system of the present invention, it surprisingly exhibits synergistic activity which results in a faster antimicrobial activity.

Abstract: Chronic rhinosinusitis and other bacterial sinus conditions may be treated by applying a solvating system containing a surfactant to a bacterial biofilm in a nasal or sinus cavity, disrupting the biofilm, and applying a protective layer of a polymeric film-forming medical sealant.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of treating an outer eye disorder selected from a cataract, neovascularization, keratitis, epithelium deficiency, or chronic opacity, by administering to the eye a composition comprising acidic electrolytic water. The present invention also relates to a stable acidic electrolyzed oxidizing water characterized by low conductivity, the presence of dissolved chlorine gas (Cl2), hypochlorous acid (HOCl) and chloride ions (Cl?), and by the presence of negligible quantities of hypochlorite ion (OCl?).

Abstract: A method for killing or substantially eradicating a pathogen in the upper respiratory tract of a mammal is disclosed. The method comprises generating molecular iodine (I2) in situ using an oxidant-reductant reaction with a minimum concentration of at least about 25 ppm of I2 and I2 comprises at least 40% of the total iodine atoms. A method for inhibiting superantigens using molecular iodine is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method for preparing the human bowel to undergo colonoscopy. A salt solution, preferable having a 0.9% w/v concentration of sodium chloride in water and warmed to 40 C. degrees, is utilized. A series of twisting and maneuvering exercises, such as those used in Yoga, is also performed. A predetermine quantity of the salt solution is consumed during predetermined intervals between the exercise steps, intending to clear and cleanse the colon so as to prepare it to undergo colonoscopy within about 3 to 24 hours after the completion of the preparation.

Abstract: An aqueous disinfectant formulation comprising at least one phenolic compound of natural origin; a surfactant sufficient to form a solution or dispersion of the essential oil in an aqueous carrier; a solvent, and sufficient water to make 100 weight percent is described herein.

Abstract: A low inflammatory oil composition and method for supplementing feed, nutrition and diet systems with omega-3 to omega-6 balanced oils comprised of a synergistic blend of at least two oils. The composition further comprises a synergistic blend of long chain omega-3 oil as a means to further increase the nutritional value. The composition further provides an effective increase in reducing inflammation for therapeutic, and pharmacological treatment in addition to general nutrition and diet systems.