Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a composition of albumin microbubbles to which are bound one or more moieties that exhibit a binding preference for the albumin microbubbles relative to free, native HSA. Production of the albumin microbubble composition and use of the albumin microbubble composition in ultrasound mediated delivery of therapeutic or diagnostic agents is also discussed.

Abstract: Methods for detecting or ruling out a meningioma in a patient using a phenylbenzothiazole derivative or a stilbene derivative or a biphenylalkyne derivative, and a medical imaging technique such as positron emission tomography/computed tomography are disclosed.

Abstract: Disclosed are surprising discoveries concerning the role of anionic phospholipids and aminophospholipids in tumor vasculature and in viral entry and spread, and compositions and methods for utilizing these findings in the treatment of cancer and viral infections. Also disclosed are advantageous antibody, immunoconjugate and duramycin-based compositions and combinations that bind and inhibit anionic phospholipids and aminophospholipids, for use in the safe and effective treatment of cancer, viral infections and related diseases.

Abstract: A method of use of an isolated polypeptide conjugated with a radionuclide, wherein the isolated polypeptide binds specifically to HER2, or a variant thereof is described. The method is for monitoring the response to HSP90 inhibition and comprises the use of the isolated polypeptide conjugated with 18F. The application also describes the use of an isolated polypeptide conjugated with 18F, wherein the isolated polypeptide binds specifically to HER2 or variants thereof, as an imaging agent to monitor uptake thereof to measure HSP90 inhibition.

Abstract: A fragrance delivery device, system and method is provided, comprising a housing including a rupture device and an absorbent member receivable in the housing. The system further includes a cartridge insertable within the housing and containing a fragrance medium therein. The rupture device of the housing is engageable with the cartridge to release the fragrance medium from the cartridge into the housing. The absorbent member absorbs the fragrance medium and permeates a fragrance from the fragrance medium to an external environment.

Abstract: A fragrance delivery device, system and method is provided, including a housing including at least one sidewall, a base member coupled with the housing, and an absorbent member receivable in the housing and disposed above the base member. The absorbent member includes at least one contact section. The system further includes an external dispenser containing a fragrance medium therein, wherein the base member receives the fragrance medium from the external dispenser. The absorbent member is engageable with the base member and the fragrance medium is in fluid communication with the at least one contact section. The absorbent member absorbs the fragrance medium and permeates a fragrance from the fragrance medium to an external environment.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for the production of highly absorbent polysaccharide fibers which contain a mixture of cellulose and ?(1?3)-glucan as a fiber-forming substance, as well as to the highly absorbent fibers made thereby, and to their use.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention is a method of preparing a bioactive filamentary fixation device in situ, including (a) providing a filamentary fixation device including a sleeve member and a filament; (b) providing a physiological solution; (c) providing bioactive material; (d) wetting the sleeve of the fixation device with the physiological solution to produce a wetted sleeve; and (e) applying the bioactive material to the wetted sleeve to coat the sleeve, thus producing a bioactive filamentary fixation device at the time of surgery in situ.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to perforated polymer films and methods of making the same. In some embodiments, the films are for use with implantable medical devices. In one embodiment there is a flexible body including a polymer film having a first surface and an opposing second surface, the film having a plurality of apertures extending from the first surface to the second surface and a plurality of raised lips protruding from the first surface such that each of the plurality of apertures is surrounded by a one of the plurality of raised lips. In one embodiment, the film comprises a single layer, and in another embodiment, the film can comprise a plurality of layers. In certain embodiments, the film can comprise an adhesive layer. In another embodiment, one or more of the layers may be a drug containing layer and/or a rate controlling layer for drug release.

Abstract: Provided herein are hemostatic compositions useful for treating wounds in a patient in need thereof. An exemplary hemostatic comprises gelatin or a derivative thereof and silicate nanoparticles. Methods of use, kits comprising the compositions, and a process of making the compositions are also provided.

Abstract: The present invention features a superporous hydrogel scaffold for corneal regeneration or replacement and a method for producing the same. The superporous hydrogel is composed of a poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (PHEMA) and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) copolymer mixed with collagen. The scaffold can be used as a suturable hybrid corneal implant or keratoprosthesis.

Abstract: A method for co-precipitating a therapeutic agent into a hydroxyapatite coated surface includes the steps of providing a surface and applying a hydroxyapatite seed layer on the surface. The hydroxyapatite seed layered surface is contacted with a solution including the therapeutic agent and a co-precipitated therapeutic agent, hydroxyapatite layer is formed on the coated surface to uniformly distribute the therapeutic agent in the layer. Further, an implant having sustained therapeutic agent delivery includes a base and an hydroxyapatite seed layer disposed on a surface of the base. A co-precipitated hydroxyapatite coating is disposed on the seed layer. The coating includes a therapeutic agent, wherein the therapeutic agent is provided in a solution of therapeutic agent.

Abstract: The invention relates to: a biomimetic collagen-hydroxyapatite composite material comprising an at least partially fibrous collagen scaffold including mature native collagen fibers possessing triple helicity as shown by Circular Dichroism Spectroscopy, wherein those mature native collagen fibers are at least partially covered with epitactically grown crystals of nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite, whereby the epitactically grown nanocrystals have the same morphology as human bone mineral and the same size as human bone mineral, i.e.

Abstract: A mesh fiber member having a plurality of biodegradable fibers, the mesh fiber member being configured to induce modulated healing of damaged biological tissue when deployed proximate thereto. The strands comprise an extracellular matrix (ECM) composition or an ECM-mimicking biomaterial composition, such as poly(glycerol sebacate) (PGS), and can include a biodegradable ECM, polymeric or ECM-mimicking biomaterial composition coating.

Abstract: Biological constructs that can be engineered into a variety of shapes and employed to treat, augment and/or support damaged or diseased mammalian organs and/or tissue related thereto. The shapes include jackets and bands that are configured to encase a preselected region of a mammalian organ.

Abstract: Biological constructs that can be engineered into a variety of shapes and employed to treat, augment and/or support damaged or diseased mammalian organs and/or tissue related thereto. The shapes include jackets and bands that are configured to encase a preselected region of a mammalian organ.

Abstract: Osteoinductive compositions and implants having increased biological activities, and methods for their production, are provided. The biological activities that may be increased include, but are not limited to, bone forming; bone healing; osteoinductive activity, osteogenic activity, chondrogenic activity, wound healing activity, neurogenic activity, contraction-inducing activity, mitosis-inducing activity, differentiation-inducing activity, chemotactic activity, angiogenic or vasculogenic activity, and exocytosis or endocytosis-inducing activity. In one embodiment, a method for producing an osteoinductive composition comprises providing partially demineralized bone, treating the partially demineralized bone to disrupt the collagen structure of the bone. In another embodiment, an implantable osteoinductive and osteoconductive composition comprises partially demineralized bone, wherein the collagen structure of the bone has been disrupted, and, optionally, a tissue-derived extract.

Abstract: A mesh fiber member having a plurality of biodegradable fibers, the mesh fiber member being configured to induce modulated healing of damaged biological tissue when deployed proximate thereto. The strands comprise an extracellular matrix (ECM) composition or an ECM-mimicking biomaterial composition, such as poly(glycerol sebacate) (PGS), and can include a biodegradable ECM, polymeric or ECM-mimicking biomaterial composition coating.

Abstract: The invention relates to a drug-coated balloon catheter and to a method for producing the same. The balloon of the catheter includes (i) a main membrane, and (ii) an asymmetrical polymer membrane which is applied to an outside of the main membrane and into which at least one pharmaceutical active ingredient is introduced.

Abstract: In some examples, a medical device system a thin film including at least one electrically conductive track extending between at least one electrode and at least one electrical contact, a first and second polymer layer; wherein, at a portion of the thin film between the at least one electrode and the at least one electrical contact, the first polymer layer and second polymer layer surround the at least one electrically conductive track; and at least one discrete ceramic member located between the first and second polymer layers at a portion of the thin film between the at least one electrode and the at least one electrical contact, wherein the at least one discrete ceramic member does not surround the at least one conductive track, and wherein the at least one discrete ceramic member is configured to increase adhesion between the first polymer layer and second polymer layer.

Abstract: Articles, methods of making, and uses for modifying surfaces for liquid repellency are disclosed. The liquid repellant surfaces comprise a surface comprising an anchoring layer. The anchoring layer, which forms an immobilized molecular anchoring layer on the surface, has anchoring molecules, where each anchoring molecule has a head group that is covalently linked to the surface and a functional tail group. The anchoring molecules are crosslinked to each other to form a crosslinked network. The functional tail group has an affinity for a lubricating liquid, which is applied to the treated surface to form a lubricating layer. The anchoring layer and replenishable lubricating liquid are held together by non-covalent attractive forces. Together, these layers form an ultra-repellant slippery surface that repels certain immiscible liquids and prevents adsorption, coagulation, and surface fouling by components contained within.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a bio-degradable implant based on magnesium having a reduced corrosion rate and to a method for the production of such an implant. It is a a method for treating a surface of a bio-degradable metallic implant comprising the following steps: providing a dispersed system comprising a colloid-dispersed apatite and adding an apatite powder to the dispersed system, subjecting an implant to the dispersed system such that a surface of the implant which is to be treated is immersed in the dispersed system wherein the implant comprises a magnesium based alloy, applying an AC voltage difference between the implant as a first electrode and a second electrode positioned in the dispersed system for generating a plasma electrolytic oxidation on the immersed surface of the implant so that the immersed surface is converted to an oxide film which is at least partially covered by apatites formed by the colloid-dispersed apatite and the apatite powder.

Abstract: A portable system for subatmospheric pressure therapy in connection with healing a surgical wound includes a wound dressing dimensioned for positioning relative to a wound bed of a subject and a collection canister in fluid communication with the wound dressing. The canister includes a first vacuum chamber for drawing a vacuum and a second fluid chamber for collecting fluids removed from the wound dressing under the vacuum. The vacuum chamber may have a vacuum and a power source. The canister further includes a hydrophobic membrane separating the first and the second fluid vacuum chambers. The hydrophobic membrane is dimensioned to span a major portion of the cross-sectional area of the canister. The hydrophobic membrane may be dimensioned to substantially span an internal dimension of the collection canister. The hydrophobic membrane may include one or more outwardly extending lobes. The outwardly extending lobes may be arranged in staggered relation.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are systems and methods for providing reduced or negative pressure, and more particularly cyclical reduced pressure, to treat a wound. The system can include a wound dressing, a fluid collection container, a suction source, filters, and conduits. In addition, the system can include a control device and sensors. The sensors may be configured to monitor certain physiological conditions of a patient such as temperature, pressure, blood flow, blood oxygen saturation, pulse, cardiac cycle, and the like. Application of cyclical reduced pressure between two or more values below atmospheric pressure may be synchronized with the physiological conditions monitored by the sensors. Certain embodiments of the system utilize an air reservoir and one or more valves and pressure sensors or gauges to allow for rapid cycling of the level of reduced pressure within the wound dressing between two or more reduced pressure values.

Abstract: A nasal aspirator device adjustably limits distance of insertion into a nasal cavity. The device includes a resiliently compressible bulb having an interior space. A first end of a tube is coupled to the bulb and a second end of the tube is positioned in spaced relationship to the bulb. The tube is in fluid communication with the interior space of the bulb. A ridge is coupled to and extends around an outer surface of the tube. The tube is insertable through an aperture in a guard such that the ridge abuts the guard wherein the guard is inhibited from sliding past the ridge towards the bulb.

Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein are directed to negative pressure treatment systems and wound dressing systems, apparatuses, and methods that may be used for the treatment of wounds. In particular, some embodiments are directed to improved wound dressings comprising a bridge portion connecting two or more portions of an absorbent layer that facilitates trimming of the wound dressing to suitable sizes. Some embodiments provide for trimming the dressing in a gap between two or more portions of an absorbent layer and sealing the exposed portion of dressing after trimming when the dressing is applied to skin surrounding a wound.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a fluid transport dressing for a negative pressure wound treatment system. The fluid transport dressing comprises a plurality of sealed chambers comprising chamber fluid.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides devices and methods for harvesting and processing tissue from patients for grafting. The devices can include a tissue collection chamber for ascetically collecting, processing, and/or re-implanting adipose tissue.

Abstract: A heart assist device comprising a rotary pump housing having a cylindrical bore, a pumping chamber and a motor stator including an electrically conductive coil located within the housing and surrounding a portion of the cylindrical bore. A rotor has a cylindrical shaft, at least one impeller appended to one end of the shaft, and a plurality of magnets located within the shaft. The rotor shaft is positioned within the housing bore with the magnets opposite the motor stator, and the impeller is positioned within the pumping chamber. The housing bore is closely fitted to the outer surface of the shaft forming a hydrodynamic journal bearing, with the pumping chamber and journal bearing connected by a leak path of blood flow between the pumping chamber and the journal bearing. A backiron of the motor stator attracts the rotor magnets to resist longitudinal displacement of the rotor within the housing during operation.

Abstract: The invention relates to a fluid pump or rotatary cutter having at least one first element (9??, 10??) which can be brought from a transport state into an operating state by changing at least one mechanical property. Such a pump can, for example, be a blood pump for the medical microinvasive area. The object of achieving a transition between the transport state and the operating state which is as comfortable as possible and in so doing leaving a freedom in the design of corresponding apparatus, in particular of a pump, which is as large as possible, is achieved using the means of the invention in that the first element at least partly comprises a material (24, 25, 26, 27) or can be filled with a material or material mixture which passes through a chemical reaction, in particular cross-linking, or a crystallization for transition into the operating state.

Abstract: A blood pump includes a housing and a rotor within the housing configured to rotate along an axis. The rotor may include a hub, the hub having regions with blades and regions without blades. The regions without blades may have a constant outer diameter and may extend along at least one fourth the length of the hub. The regions with blades may have an increasing outer diameter. Blades may be disposed on a downstream end region of the hub and extend downstream of the hub. Blades may begin approximately halfway along the axial length of a motor stator located about a hub and extend downstream of the motor stator. Blades may have portions that produce axial fluid flow and radial fluid flow with improved flow characteristics.

Abstract: A peristaltic pumping apparatus for use in blood processing procedures, comprising: a pump rotor rotatable about a rotational axis and a pump raceway circumferentially spaced about the axis; a pump cap disposed atop the pump rotor, the pump cap having a finger configured to engage a tubing loop of a length of tubing at a time of loading the tubing and guide the tubing loop within the raceway along the length of the tubing loop; and wherein the pump cap further comprises a tensioning wall disposed laterally opposite the finger, the tensioning wail configured to engage a length of the tubing loop at a time of unloading the tubing and provide tension to the tubing length as the tubing loop exits the raceway.

Abstract: The invention relates to actuators based on electroactive polymeric materials for use in pumping fluids or in other applications where a contractile actuation is required, in particular although not necessarily exclusively for use in vascular pulsation devices such as a variable aortic tension device. Embodiments disclosed include an actuator (10) comprising: an inner tubular structure (15, 12); an outer tubular structure (13, 14) surrounding the inner tubular structure (15, 12) and comprising a plurality of layers of a dielectric elastomeric material (13) and a tubular elastic support structure (14), the elastic support structure (14) configured to maintain a pre-stress in the layers of the dielectric elastomeric material (13), wherein the outer tubular structure (13, 14) is configured to contract in a radial direction around the inner tubular structure (12, 15) upon application of an actuation voltage signal across the dielectric elastomeric material layers (13).

Abstract: A flow rate of blood through an implantable blood pump is determined based on a parameter related to the flow, such as a parameter related to thrust on the rotor of the pump. An amount of current supplied to the pump is used to determine each of a first flow rate value and second flow rate values. Each of the first and second flow rate values, in combination with the parameter related to thrust on the rotor of the pump, are used to calculate a flow rate of blood through the pump.

Abstract: A medical treatment system, such as a peritoneal dialysis system, may include a control and other features to enhance patient comfort and ease of use. For example, a cycler device may include a heater bag receiving section and a lid mounted to cover and uncover the heater bag receiving section, potentially enabling faster heating of a dialysate. A user interface may be moveable to be received into the receiving section and covered by the lid, if desired. The system may detect anomalous conditions, such as tilting of a housing of the system, and automatically recover without terminating a treatment. The system may include noise reduction features, such as porting pneumatic outputs to a common chamber, and others. The system may also automatically detect any one of several different solution lines connected to the system, and control operation accordingly, e.g., to mix solutions provided by two or more lines and form a needed dialysate solution.

Abstract: Compositions of peritoneal dialysis solutions and metabolizing enzymes, and their uses to treat disorders associated with elevated levels of metabolites are disclosed. Animal models of hyperoxalemia are also disclosed.

Abstract: A device and method can be used for clinical virus inactivation treatment to automatically, continuously and cyclically treat plasma of a patient in a closed system. The disclosed plasma treatment device may be used for an anti-viral agent such as, for example, methylene blue photochemical plasma virus inactivation. The plasma treatment device can perform real-time treatment to the plasma in the closed system on the basis of the principle of plasma exchange and can realize real-time back-transfusion during treatment.

Abstract: An apparatus for extracorporeal blood treatment (1) is described, comprising a treatment unit (3) having at least a first chamber (4) and at least a second chamber (5) separated from one another by a semi-permeable membrane (6); at least a blood removal line (7) connected to an inlet port (4a) of the first chamber (4) and predisposed to remove blood from a patient (P); at least a blood return line (8) connected to an outlet port (4b) from the first chamber (4) and predisposed to return treated blood to the patient (P), wherein the blood removal line (7), the blood return line (8) and the first chamber (4) are part of an extracorporeal blood circuit (2); at least a peristaltic pump (9) operating at the extracorporeal blood circuit (2) for moving the blood in the circuit; at least a pressure sensor (13, 14) associated to the extracorporeal blood circuit (2) and configured to enable determining pressure values in the extracorporeal blood circuit (2); at least a fluid drainage line (23) connected to an outlet por

Abstract: The disclosed subject matter includes a structure and method for making a dual-lumen needle from single lumen needles to take advantage of the much higher economies of scale. Variations include two needles joined by a flow junction and one needle and a single cannula joined by a flow junction. In addition disclosed are methods of using a dual-lumen needle in a two needle access for blood treatment is disclosed in which at least venous flow is provided through a dual-lumen needle with arterial flow just sufficient to provide air infiltration detection in the event of withdrawal of the dual-lumen needle.

Abstract: A method of separating blood into two or more components and subsequently washing a component, comprising providing a blood storage container containing an initial blood composition, and a blood separation circuit comprising a separator. The method also comprises separating and washing cellular material within the same blood separation circuit.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for preparing a pharmaceutical for transient application includes a tray having a sealed compartment, a vial of an ophthalmic formulation of mitomycin-C, a diluent carrier containing sterilized water, and a syringe that are all contained together in a single package. The component parts of the apparatus are used together to reconstitute the contents of the vial with the water in the diluent carrier, and then draw the reconstituted drug into the scaled compartment of the tray by a suction force produced by the syringe. In the tray compartment, the reconstituted drug is absorbed in at least one absorbent pad. The absorbent pads may come in multiple shapes and or/sizes. The tray is opened to remove the pad and the absorbed drug from the tray compartment for use of the pad in transient application of the drug.

Abstract: Generally, devices, systems and methods of using one or more needle(s) or micro-needle arrays are described in which a shift of fluid volume from a first expansion member position to a second expansion member position drives delivery of the fluid, which can be a drug or drug solution, through the needle(s) or micro-needle arrays.

Abstract: A mechanical injection pump wearable by a user to deliver a first fluid and a second fluid, including: a pump body having a first fluid chamber to hold the first fluid and a second fluid chamber to hold the second fluid; a common connector having a first inlet, a second inlet, and a common outlet; a first fluid system including the first fluid chamber, a first button drive connected to the first fluid chamber, and first fluid delivery path between the first fluid chamber and the first inlet; and a second fluid system including the second fluid chamber, a second button drive connected to the second fluid chamber, and second fluid delivery path between the second fluid chamber and the second inlet. Force by the user on the button drive increases pressure within the fluid chamber to drive a predetermined volume of the fluid from the fluid chamber.

Abstract: A fluid conduit assembly for delivery of a medication fluid, and an associated fluid delivery system, are disclosed here. The fluid conduit assembly includes a trapping chamber having an interior volume to receive the medication fluid. The fluid conduit assembly also includes an inlet in fluid communication with the interior volume, a first outlet arrangement for the trapping chamber, and a second outlet arrangement for the trapping chamber. The first outlet arrangement accommodates flow of liquid from the interior volume, while inhibiting flow of gas from the interior volume. The second outlet arrangement accommodates flow of gas from the interior volume, while inhibiting flow of liquid from the interior volume.

Abstract: Systems and methods for a fluid reservoir for use with a fluid infusion device, which is automatically filled are provided. The fluid reservoir includes a barrel having a proximal end and a distal end. The fluid reservoir also includes a stopper received in the barrel and movable within the barrel from the distal end to the proximal end to dispense a fluid from a passageway of the barrel. The fluid reservoir includes at least one engagement feature defined along a portion of a perimeter of the barrel near the proximal end that removably couples the fluid reservoir to the fluid infusion device.

Abstract: Systems and methods for a fluid reservoir for use with a fluid infusion device which is automatically filled are provided. A set connector for use with a fluid reservoir of a fluid infusion device includes a body for defining a fluid flow path out of the fluid reservoir. The body includes at least one locking tab that cooperates with a portion of the fluid infusion device to removably couple the body to a proximal end of the fluid reservoir. The body is movable between a first position, in which the fluid flow path is obstructed, and a second position, in which the fluid flow path is open.

Abstract: Drug delivery system, injection device, transfer apparatus, vial holder and method of administering and transferring are disclosed. The system may include transfer apparatus and an injection device. The transfer apparatus may have receiving stations for a drug source, such as a vial or vial holder, and for an injection device, and fluid flow pathways for transferring drugs from the source into the injection device. The injection device may include an expandable elastic bladder and an injection cannula that is movable between a plurality of positions.

Abstract: An infusion set insertion device and method of use with an insertion device for an infusion set having an infusion set body including: a barrel defining a pull handle cavity; a pull handle slideably disposed in the pull handle cavity, the pull handle having an outer surface and defining an infusion set cavity and a release button cavity, the pull handle having a cocked position and an advanced position relative to the barrel; a release button slideably disposed in the release button cavity, the release button having a loaded position and a released position relative to the pull handle; and a driver operable to move the pull handle from the cocked position to the advanced position; wherein the release button extends a first axial distance beyond the outer surface when in the loaded position and extends a second axial distance into the infusion set cavity when in the released position.

Abstract: A safety needle assembly of an infusion set for infusing fluids into a subcutaneously implanted access port is disclosed. The needle assembly is configured to prevent fluid/vapor escape therefrom so as to reduce or prevent fluid exposure to a clinician using the needle assembly. In one embodiment, the needle assembly comprises a handle portion including a needle extending therefrom, the needle defining a lumen for passage of a fluid therethrough. The needle assembly also includes a safety assembly defining a needle hole through which the needle initially extends. The safety assembly is selectively and axially slidable along the needle in order to shield a distal tip of the needle and prevent user contact therewith. A fluid isolation component is included in the safety assembly for isolating fluid escape from the needle to prevent exposure to a clinician.

Abstract: Systems and methods for a fluid reservoir associated with a fluid infusion device, which is automatically filled are provided. The fluid infusion device includes a source of input and a fluid reservoir system including the fluid reservoir having a barrel and a stopper disposed within the barrel. The fluid infusion device also includes a drive system coupled to the stopper of the fluid reservoir system and a control module that outputs one or more control signals to the drive system to move the stopper to fill the barrel of the fluid reservoir with a fluid based on the input.